Biden campaign moves into the virtual world of ‘Animal Crossing’

Biden’s campaign has joined the beatific world of ‘Animal Crossing’ in a bid to reach younger voters. — Reuters

Joe Biden is making a move to win over younger voters by releasing yard signs that players can download for their homes in the popular Animal Crossing: New Horizons virtual world.

The yard signs come in several variations, according to The Verge, a technology news website. One has Biden's trademark aviator sunglasses, while another has the rainbow flag, the symbol of the LGBT movement.

“As we enter the final campaign stretch towards November, this is one way we are finding new, creative and innovative ways to meet voters where they are and bring our supporters together,” the Democratic nominee’s campaign said in a statement to The Verge.

The newest Animal Crossing game came out at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and managed to slot into the new reality, in particular the stay-at-home trend. The game allows players to, at least virtually, carry on with outdoor activities and socialising.

The life simulation video game quickly became the fastest-selling title for the Nintendo Switch ever, moving some 13 million copies within the first few weeks it was available.

Nintendo, the Japanese gaming giant, said the game is particularly popular among people in their 20s and 30s, a key demographic that Democrats must turn out to the presidential polls in November if they hope to defeat US President Donald Trump, the Republican candidate. – dpa