CLIENT: SCI FI CHANNEL | RELEASED: JAN 2007
CHALLENGE
The Sci Fi channel wanted an online game to promote Dresden Files, a new supernatural detective show based on Jim Butcher’s novels that blends dry humor, modern fantasy, and classic noir genres – think Angel meets Casablanca. Harry Dresden’s world looks like our own, but he sees supernatural phenomenon just under the surface of normal perception. The Sci Fi channel challenged Fuel Industries to drive tune-in to the show beyond “sci philes.".
STRATEGY
The online game had to incorporate elements of action, special effects, and fantasy to allow a broad audience to experience the atmosphere of the show. One of our most successful methods of generating mass-market traction is to express the brand’s core around a common play experience.
Dresden is a dark loner with an authority problem…the kind of guy you’d find in a seedy pool hall. We pitted the modern-day wizard against a demon in a mystical pool match to save a woman’s soul. It incorporates a popular play element with science fiction, and holds consistent with the world of The Dresden Files.
CREATIVE & EXECUTION
A storyboard introduction sequence sets the scene using still photographs and artwork in a Sin City-style execution. This captures the mood of the television program and grabs the interest of potential fans.
What makes Soul Pool different from regular pool is that players use magic to help win the game. There are five offensive and defensive spells; for example players can switch the cue-ball with any ball on the table for an easier shot, or cast a barrier around a pocket so an opponent can’t make his shot. But be warned, the demon has magic of his own!
The spells introduce a strategy element to the game. To win, you must use magic to your advantage, and counter spells the demon is likely to cast. Do you cast smaller spells each turn, or save your magic to unleash a level-five Gemini Dagger? If you wait too long accumulating magic power for a massive attack, you may not get the chance to use it, sealing the fate of the soul you’re trying to save.
