Blockbuster is promoting the DVD release of the film “1408” with an online game and sweepstakes that offers the chance to win a trip to New York.
The game, available at 1408TheMovieDVD.com through Oct. 31, is one of several promotional pieces tied to the Oct. 2 release of the Weinstein film.
To play, people “check in” to the site, which mimics an online guest registry. It asks for users names, e-mail address, as well as their blood type and organ donor information to tie in to the online experience.
Called “1408 Room & Doom,” the game pits players against the evil forces of Room 1408. To escape, they have to find the hidden key releasing them from the room. The game includes flashbacks from scenes from the film. People who don’t make it out of the room meet an unpleasant fate in the virtual world.
Gamers who succeed will receive a wallpaper download, a sneak peak at an alternate ending to the movie, or can watch a trailer and behind-the-scenes footage of “The Mist,” horror film due out on Nov. 21.
A sweepstakes offers the chance to win a three-day trip for two to New York and a haunted tour of the city. Lesser prizes include American Express gift cards.
Based on a Stephen King short story, “1408” follows the tale of a writer known for explaining infamous paranormal events who confronts a force that he has trouble battling in room 1408 in the Dolphin Hotel.
Online marketing and in-store signage supports the sweepstakes.
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