Smackdown vs. Raw Campaign

If you saw this past Monday's edition of Raw on USA, you most likely saw the advertisement for the video game "WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008" at least a few times. The commercial featured superstars John Cena and Triple H hyping up the game, set for release just one week from today. According to GameDaily.com, THQ is using a major marketing campaign to promote the new game, which includes the following:

- A global TV campaign in eight different countries, including advertising, broadcast and event sponsorships.

- Print advertising in consumer publications and holiday buyer guides, including a Nintendo-specific campaign.

- A comprehensive online campaign including advertising, a demo campaign via Xbox Live Marketplace for the Xbox 360, as well as the annual roster reveal and daily Superstar profiles campaign on IGN.

- A worldwide gaming tournament where top SmackDown vs. Raw gamers will win the opportunity to compete at the 6th Annual THQ Superstar Challenge in Orlando, FL, which kicks off WrestleMania 24 weekend.

- First-ever launch event for the franchise at Toys"R"Us Times Square, including an appearance and autograph signing by WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio.

- Retailer-specific promotions including Superstar appearances, exclusive gift with purchase opportunities, co-marketing with WWE DVD and more.

- Wireless promotions through major carriers.

WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 will be available for the DS, Wii and PS3, Xbox 360, PS2, PSP and "wireless devices" when it ships on November 13 (it hits Europe, Australia and New Zealand even earlier on November 9).