Hasta La Gadget!

Fans of the PSP multi-player game series Monster Hunter who are eagerly awaiting the release of the new new installment will be heading to Nagano this New Year.

The Shibu onsen (hot spring) there may have a history of over a thousand years but it can still keep its marketing eyes on the present. It has teamed up with the Capcom game to offer players special stay plans, and a slew of tie-in merchandise and souvenirs.

We have previously seen virtual dating game Konami’s Love Plus target its otaku (geek) consumers for travel business, so this gaming-vacation industry crossover is certainly a trend. Like the location for the Love Plus deal, the Shibu onsen actually looks just like on the game’s levels. Visiting fans will surely adore exploring the place in reality, though without having to fight giant and dangerous enemies (that might be a downside).

The onsen has prepared branded beers and sweets, even apples. There will be special game-themed ‘events’ laid out during the campaign period and even a special branded train to take fans to the spring resort.

Monster Hunter Portable 3rd, released on December 1st, is not stopping there: we also hear of UNIQLO and drinks collaborations.

[Via Digital Gadgets Freak]