Better Reality with Odell Beckham Jr.

Sure, virtual reality is great. But the only thing better than virtual reality is actual reality.

We created a research facility for Verizon customers to try “a breakthrough virtual reality experience prototype” which would allow them to interact with a “virtual” version of star Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.

What the fans didn’t realize was that the NFL star showboating for them was the real deal, not VR. When they were prompted to take off our makeshift goggles, the big reveal was filled with surprise, delight, disbelief and at least one tearful hug.

The fans’ reactions epitomized to us how Verizon brings Better Matters to life.

Implementation

We created a test facility in a studio and asked actual Verizon customers to come in and test a new virtual reality kit. While their vision was obscured by VR goggles, Odell Beckham Jr. sneaked into the space. He behaved as if he were a simulation before removing the fan’s headset to reveal his real life presence.

Timeline

We staged Better Reality on February 6. We released the video on February 24, as a fitting final moment of the 2015-2016 NFL season.

Placement

The sports site Bleacher Report got an exclusive release of Better Reality. It was also posted on YouTube and shared by Odell Beckham Jr. and the New York Giants via social channels.

Scale

Coverage expanded to include 22 placements, including Fox News, and Creativity Online. To date, the video has received over 100,000 views and has generated 13.7 million impressions.

Reach

In total, Better Reality delivered a reach of 17.6MM impressions across channels.

Engagement

Total engagement was 124k, including 119k views and 892 earned posts. This was done without using paid media or posting to Verizon-owned channels.

Achievement Against Business Goals

Better Reality successfully introduced the new Access platform to millions of NFL fans, inciting envy in non-customers and proving the value of being with the Better Network.