TikTok & Video Gamers - dancers, Squid Game Slot on Netflix: the future of media and entertainment

The recent trend of TikTok dancers imitating video game characters is a fascinating one. Some?dancers?have found a niche on TikTok and other platforms,?imitating video game characters?— moving like a machine's idea of a human.? If you haven't seen it yet, have a look at this example @dem_Brudazz . He and a few more have gained a global following for their accurate imitations of characters from the video game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. ?

This trend apart from showing how video games have become a major part of pop culture, shows how social media can be used to create and share new and creative forms of expression.

The upcoming launch of the Squid Game slot machine by Light & Wonder - iGaming on Netflix and a second season of the series is another example of the integration of media and entertainment forms into our everyday lives. The Squid Game slot machine will allow players to experience the world of the series in a new and interactive way. Is it a marketing masterstroke? Yes, I think it is, the show is one of the most popular on Netflix, with over 111 million viewers worldwide. This means that there is a large and engaged audience who would be interested in a Squid Game slot.

In addition, the themes of Squid Game, such as desperation, greed, and survival, are universally relatable. This means that the 'themes' slot would appeal to a wide range of players, regardless of their cultural background.

Finally, Squid Game has a strong brand identity, with its iconic visuals and catchy music. This makes the slot both visually appealing and engaging for players. I was not at G2E 2023 in Vegas so cannot really say but from the video spread around LinkedIn, I could tell! ????

Last but not least could the slot help to generate excitement and anticipation for the new season?

Overall, I believe that the launch of a Squid Game slot machine is a brilliant marketing move. And beyond the obvious marketing benefits, the Squid Game slot machine could also be a great way to promote the second season of the show, which is currently in development.

I also think there are some similarities between the trend on TikTok of dancers imitating video game characters and the launch of a Squid Game Slot on Netflix, presented during G2E both socially and from a marketing point of view.

Social similarities:

1?? Both trends are popular among young people.

2?? Both trends are creative and engaging.

3?? Both trends involve 'imitating' characters from popular media or trendy 'media consumption'

Marketing similarities:

1?? Both trends can be used to promote products but also entertain.

2?? Both trends can be used to reach a large audience.

3?? Both trends can be used to create a sense of community and engagement.

Let's just imagine and think out of the box a few potential emerging trends and challenges ( considering how TikTok is very restrictive with gambling promotions):

??????

• Could Netflix create a TikTok challenge where users compete to create the most creative video of themselves imitating a Squid Game character? This would be a great way to engage users and generate content that Light&Wonder could use to promote the game too!
• This is tricky but.. could Netflix run a TikTok contest where users can submit videos of themselves playing a free2play version (for example) of the slot machine for a chance to win prizes? or get an exclusive preview of the 2nd season just for the slot players?

to conclude:

First, let's think of

...a world where media and entertainment are seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives. We can consume media and entertainment anywhere, anytime, and on any device. We can also create and share our own media and entertainment content with ease.

Second, let's consider...

...the impact that this integration will have on our society. Will it make us more connected? More creative? More entertained? Or will it lead to social isolation, addiction, and other problems?

Third, let's reflect on...

...what role do we want to play in the future of media and entertainment? We can definitely make an impact. Here are some ideas:

• Support creators who are producing diverse, inclusive, educational, informative, positive, and uplifting content.
• Challenge harmful stereotypes and narratives.
• Be a critical consumer of media and entertainment content.

The two examples mentioned in this article, highlight the many ways that media convergence is changing the way we consume and create media content. As part of the Creator's Economy, Media convergence is creating new opportunities for creators to express themselves and to reach new audiences. At the same time, it creates new ways for consumers to experience media content, and why not slots and video games? It is a time when creators and consumers are more connected than ever before.

If you found this article interesting or need creative support, don't hesitate to reach out ?? we are to shape this dynamic world together!