The day after it’s release, Nintendo World NYC celebrated the new 3DS handheld system game, Disney Magical World, in style.
The event took place from 12-3 p.m. Fans who queued up early received wristbands to access Mickey’s Cafe. This area was very well themed, with a sign outside that was an exact replica of the cafe sign in the Magical World video game. Through the entrance was a cafe set-up, complete with Mickey tables and chairs, and a Mickey figurine and 3DS handheld devices on each. Employees showed highlights of the games, and served cupcakes and punch to the guests. You were then invited to queue up to meet Stacia Martin, a well regarded Disney sketch artist, and request the Disney character sketch of your choice. A flat screen playing Disney Video’s new Mickey Mouse cartoons kept the guests entertained as they waited for their turn. Following this was a meet and greet with Genevieve Hannelius, of Disney Channel’s “Dog with a Blog”.
Radio Disney kept things moving by playing games, leading dance parties, and even some impromptu karaoke when “Let It Go” was played! The free photo booth has a special “Disney Magical World” layover on the photo sheet, and encasing the entire booth. Large 4 ft resin color cutouts of various Disney characters were scattered throughout the first floor, and the windows had full size Magical World promotional posters. A Tinker Bell poster served as the “event exclusive” AR card for Magical World game. Clusters of Mickey balloons decorated both floors. The atmosphere was lively, fun, and friendly…it had that “Disney” feel!
For guests who purchased the game during the event, there was a “goodie bag”; you had your choice of a Mickey or Minnie water bottle, in a thermal sleeve with a carrying strap, a Magical World calendar, which had an additional exclusive AR card, and two Disney magazines; Disney Junior and Disney Fairies.
Personally, I bought the Mickey Limited Edition 3DS and the game. I am not a “gamer”, but this particular game is a more passive, immersive game style…and I’m always looking for ways to be immersed in the Disney Magical World!