There are only three weeks left in the United States Presidential election, and Democratic candidate Joe Biden is taking his campaign to the popular Nintendo Switch title, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The Biden campaign has launched an island named "Biden HQ" where players can visit to learn more about the campaign and tour the island.
The Animal Crossing: New Horizons island features a "Team Joe" flag flying over the town hall, with attractions scattered throughout the island. There is an ice cream stand, a model train display, a campaign office, and a voting poll, all decorated with great detail. Players can also take selfies and talk to the Democratic candidate, who responds with "No malarkey!" The island gives players a chance to learn more about Joe Biden by showing off his love for model trains, ice cream, and giving players a look at replication of his personal office.
The "Biden HQ" island also features campaign decorations, information on voting, and an exclusive shop for Biden-Harris themed in-game merchandise. Players can even text "AC" to 30330 to receive an exclusive "Biden HQ" themed shirt for their in-game character. Animal Crossing has a massive player base, and according to statistics provided by Animal Crossing director Aya Kyogoku, many users are in their 20's and 30's. With a player base that is largely voting age, the island serves as an effective way to reach voters.
Director of Digital Partnerships for the Biden-Harris campaign, Christian Tom says, "We are continuing to reach out to voters across the country wherever they are — including on Animal Crossing." This is also not the first time the Biden campaign has used Animal Crossing. Previously, the campaign launched four Joe Biden signs that players could place on their own islands.
Players can visit the "Biden HQ" island now by laying in bed and falling asleep in-game. Luna will ask a Dream code and to visit Biden's island, type in: DA-7286-5710-7478. Upon arrival at the island, players can visit all locations including the voting polls, which has an election day checklist and an ad for the Democratic National Committee’s “I Will Vote” website, which lists voting information as well.
Video games are a way to connect and relate with others and many politicians have shared their love for video games as a way to connect with their supporters. House representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shared her promotion to silver division in League of Legends, which received a great deal of positive feedback and support. As the election draws closer, Biden is connecting with his supporters through an Animal Crossing: New Horizons island that provides many ways to connect with the candidate and the campaign.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available now for Switch.
Source: Twitter