Puma goes virtual in Football Superstars online game

LONDON - Puma has signed a deal with CyberSports to interactively incorporate its sportswear products and branding into online video game 'Football Superstars'.

In-game advertising agency IGA Worldwide will incorporate the interactive branding into the free-to-download multi-player game.

Players will be able to wear Puma's v1.08 Speed Boot and can also visit an in-game replica of Puma's Carnaby Street concept store in London to kit their avatar out with the latest Puma clothes.

is a multi-player online game, featuring thousands of human players who re-create themselves online as a footballer.

Players can play their way from three-a-side up to full 11-a-side matches, gaining new attributes and skills in order to specialise in their chosen playing position.

Away from the pitch, players can socialise in restaurants, bars and clubs. They can also visit virtual stores where they can buy the latest equipment and designer clothes.

Players can also train in gyms and on training pitches to enhance their skills, or interact with the paparazzi in a bid to boost their fame and status and gain access to the most exclusive clubs and venues.

Andy Law, head of business development at CyberSports, said: "We are delighted to be working with a globally recognised football brand such as Puma.

"They are leading the way by providing footballers with everything they need to succeed on the pitch and now they will be doing the same on the virtual pitches of 'Football Superstars'.

"With a brand like Puma interactively involved we further blur the divide between reality and our virtual world."

Puma will also have its own branded virtual training academy where players can train. The Academy's trainer will be wearing Puma training kit, as well as the players.

The academy will also feature Puma footballs, Puma pitch side advertising hoardings, a Puma pitch logo and a video wall.

Richard Callaway, head of sport at Puma UK, said: "We are very excited about our new partnership with 'Football Superstars' as it provides us with a unique opportunity to communicate the brand and its benefits to a wider audience."