Target, Google Team Up For In-Store Interactive Game
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Any parent knows how tough it to shop with young children. And every retailer knows how tough it is to lure shoppers into their brick-and-mortar stores.
Target and Google have teamed up to create an in-store interactive video game that will attract shoppers with kids.
That game is being rolled out Thursday in only four Target stores nationwide, including one in Roseville.
Studies show that when consumers shop in a store as opposed to shopping online, they spend more.
Google and Target are clearly hoping this never-before-tried concept will drive sales and lead to widespread 3-D experiences in other stores
Google came to Target with this new technology that can take shoppers through a 3-D, in-store adventure -- encountering snow ball fights and animal characters.
"It's very cutting edge. These are not commercially available," said Eddie Baeb of Target. "It's kind of an only-at-Target thing and we really think our guests are really going to enjoy playing these games."
Target will have employees stationed along the gaming route, allowing parents more time to shop. Marketing Professor Jon Seltzer says it's a good idea.
"I think it's really good for Target because two reasons: One, ii gives you a reason to go to Target, and two, once you're in Target you're going to stay longer," Seltzer said. "As a rule of thumb, the longer you stay in a store, the more you spend."
Target also has a different version of the game that anyone can get on their smart phone for free. Special arrows at all Target stores nationwide will point to codes to get special game.
The live interactive version of the game will only be available at the Target store in Roseville starting this Thursday and running through Sunday.
The phone version of the game is available now for free and can be played in stores through Christmas
Click here to get the phone game, and here for the desktop version.
