We decided to use the undying popularity of retro games to create an engaging pre-roll campaign, while flattering local gamers by featuring local content. We created a game-like experience for gamers who pressed the fake skip button on our pre-roll – transforming Manila’s infamous traffic, haunted streets, and historic sites into 8-bit arcade levels.

We started by creating three original 8-bit animated films. Then we devised a way of using YouTube annotations to give the impression of actual game play. This was done by assigning simple game controls into distinct areas of the animation. And connecting each control to different parts of the video.

When clicked, each annotation connects to corresponding parts of the video. Enabling the user to JUMP, SHOOT, and BLAST. At the end of the game, the players can play again, play another game or visit the website.

The videos received 78% view rate – showing that videos “skipped” were played nearly until the end. Instead of skipping the 5-second pre-roll, users played 60 seconds of our pre-roll – 12X longer than industry average. And a 10% engagement spike versus 2% industry average. And the video also received rave reviews from gamers and Facebook gaming communities.