We all know too well how the market-saturated trading card game and tabletop game franchises like Duel Masters and Battle Spirits are promoted in Japan. Yes, we all can predict the formulaic anime series about this enigmatic kid or preteen destined to Be A Master by winging his way up tournaments and saving the world by playing children’s games to thwart an evil villain interwoven into the tournament arc with advertisements for the physical cards dominating the commercial slots during the airing. An alternative strategy is to make the marketing dynamic and add the “interacting with real people” element to a franchise otherwise represented only by 2D depictions. For example, an aggressively marketed variety show about the franchise that takes the chance to feature up-and-coming idols and "tarentoosu" (talents) and invite the kids on stage for demonstration duels or report live tournaments. Well, the Japanese kids buy it quite well.
Bushiroad, being the super-promoter she is, has obviously not left out the latter, with their live broadcasts in Japan to promote Cardfight!! Vanguard, bringing in their bevy of seiyuus (voice actors) and affiliated celebrities such as DAIGO and their "pros" onto the show. And the commercials. Has anyone seen Japanese commercials?
 |
| Such Asian smiles |
