Today : Jan 08, 2025
Arts & Culture
07 January 2025

Gakuen Idol Master Launches First Fest With Special Wrapped Trains

Bandai Namco Entertainment commemorates the inaugural Hatsuboshi Fest with colorful train promotions featuring beloved characters.

Bandai Namco Entertainment has marked the launch of the highly anticipated "Hatsuboshi Fest" for its popular game, Gakuen Idol Master, by commencing operations of special wrapped trains featuring the characters Hanami Saki, Tsukimura Temari, and Fujita Kotone. This exciting initiative not only highlights the festival but also aims to engage fans through immersive experiences.

The wrapped trains will run on several key lines: Hanami Saki will be showcased on the Central Rapid Line, Tsukimura Temari on the Keihin Tohoku Line, and Fujita Kotone on the Yamanote Line, with each line featuring two trains adorned with vibrant designs of the respective idols. The operation of these themed trains is set for a limited time, until the end of January 2025, enticing fans to catch them during their commutes.

Currently, the Hatsuboshi Fest is adding to the excitement with its special gacha event, which runs until January 16, 2025. During this festival, the likelihood of obtaining SSR (Super Super Rare) cards has been increased to 1.5 times, making it the perfect opportunity for players to add powerful new characters to their collections. The festival features exclusive new production idols appearing sequentially, heightening the anticipation among fans.

Just before the festival concludes on January 16, several new characters are being featured, including Campus mode!! idols such as Arimura Mao, Himesaki Rina, and Juou Sena, with their promotions taking center stage from January 9 to 16. Following this, players can look forward to more characters, including Kuramoto China and Shinozawa Hiro, who will be featured on the gacha from January 9 to 16, followed by Shiun Kiyoka and Kazuragi Ririya available from January 16 onwards.

According to Bandai Namco Entertainment, "During the Hatsuboshi Fest, SSR appearance rates will increase to 1.5 times!" This has been met with enthusiasm as players are eager to take advantage of the enhanced chances to acquire coveted characters. The added features allow new idols to be usable within the game for production, letting players enjoy outfits and songs from the Campus mode!! theme as they create and manage their idol groups.

Also pertinent to the train promotion, Bandai Namco notes: "Check out the wrapped trains on your outings!" They serve as mobile advertisements for the game, reminding fans of the festival and the unique offerings available at this time. Each wrapped train not only serves the public but enhances the overall gaming experience by bringing the virtual characters to the real world. Fans are encouraged to share their experiences and sightings of the trains across social media as part of the fun.

The wrapped trains and the Hatsuboshi Fest have captured the attention of the game's fanbase, adding layers to how they engage with the Gakuen Idol Master universe. This novel promotion reflects the company's commitment to creating innovative and immersive experiences for fans, making it not just about the game but the broader culture surrounding it.

With the Hatsuboshi Fest gaining traction, it's clear this is just the beginning of how Gakuen Idol Master continues to evolve and provide exciting content for fans. The synergy between the wrapped trains and the gacha event has stirred excitement within the community, fostering closer ties among players and encouraging new participants to join the fun. The final days of the festival are sure to attract even more players eager to snag the exclusive promotional idols before they disappear.

The Hatsuboshi Fest is poised to not only strengthen the fanbase of Gakuen Idol Master but also promote the overall idol culture within the gaming community, ensuring both existing fans and new ones have opportunities to engage and partake. The vibrant and colorful wrapped trains will no doubt leave lasting impressions as they traverse the urban landscapes, reminding everyone of the delightful world of idols and the music they bring.