McDonald's Japan has officially launched its first collaboration with the iconic anime series "Neon Genesis Evangelion," celebrating the show's 30th anniversary with limited edition collectible figures. Starting December 19, 2024, fans can enter to win the chance to purchase unique transforming figures representing the Big Mac, French fries, and milkshake, each transforming respectively to the series’ famed Eva Units 01, 02, and 00.
This special offer, aptly named the "Makudonarudo x Evangelion Value Set Figures," invites participants to apply via the official McDonald's app from December 19, 2024, to January 10, 2025. The draw will announce winners on January 16, 2025, allowing them to purchase the figures from January 20 to January 26, 2025, at specified McDonald’s outlets.
"This collaboration brings together the worlds of fast food and anime fans, marking the 30th anniversary of Neon Genesis Evangelion," stated McDonald's Japan CEO Thomas Kough. The figures will be priced at 3,900 yen for the set, making them not just collectibles but also accessible memorabilia for fans.
Among the three figures, each food item of the trademark McDonald's line takes on the characteristics of the corresponding Eva unit, creating excitement among collectors and Evangelion enthusiasts alike. It's a unique fusion of culinary delight and animated nostalgia, sparking renewed interest in both franchises.
Fans are encouraged to act quickly due to the limited quantity available, and with only one entry permitted per person, the opportunity to snag these figures is both thrilling and strategic. "Get your transforming figures through our app; don’t miss this rare opportunity!" emphasizes McDonald's promotional materials.
This collaboration not only highlights McDonald's adaptability to fan culture but also showcases its commitment to delivering innovative experiences. The interplay between McDonald's familiar menu items and Evangelion's engaging characters creates memorable ties for both new and long-time fans. The announcement hints at future collaborations, as the campaign's second phase promises to deliver more surprises linked to the Evangelion universe.
With the backdrop of the anime's critically acclaimed legacy, this initiative can be seen as part of the broader trend of brands leveraging pop culture to create meaningful engagement. The first series of figures is expected to be highly sought after, linking the childhood joys of enjoying fast food with the beloved intricacies of Japanese animation history.
Essentially, this landmark partnership stands as both tribute and innovation, merging the irreverent joy of enjoying fast food with the complex emotional narratives presented by the Evangelion series. It also marks McDonald's strategic navigation within fan cultures, aiming to distinguish itself as not just another fast-food company but as a key player within the larger narrative of contemporary Japanese culture.
With the launch being commemorated through promotional media, including commercials featuring the transforming robots, expectations are high for engaging interactions across the nation. The commercial released on December 24, 2024, adds visual appeal, reminding fans of the thrilling universe of Evangelion.
This limited-edition offering is poised to encourage brand loyalty among fans and stimulate conversations around how food and entertainment can intersect, proving once again the power of strategic partnerships. The figures are set to become not merely collectibles but also conversation starters at every table where fans gather to reminisce about their beloved childhood series and the iconic McDonald's meals.
