Source: IGN
Introduction
Gaming enthusiasts and families across New South Wales are set for a nostalgic journey through the 1990s this upcoming school holiday period. IGN Australia has announced a strategic partnership with confectionery brand Chupa Chups and Westfield Parramatta to launch an interactive, retro-inspired gaming installation.
The collaboration, titled the “Chupa Chups Forever Fun House,” aims to provide a high-energy, free-to-attend entertainment hub for the local community. By transforming a dedicated space into a multi-room "dream home," the organizers intend to blend classic gaming culture with modern interactive displays and consumer engagement activities.
What Happened
The upcoming activation serves as a temporary pop-up experience designed to offer free entertainment throughout the first week of October. Guests visiting the Westfield Parramatta shopping center will gain access to a curated environment featuring four distinct, themed rooms decorated to evoke the aesthetic of 90s family living.
Beyond the visual nostalgia, the venue will be fully equipped with multiple gaming consoles and a rotating selection of titles. The organizers have confirmed that the space will remain open to the public during standard center operating hours for the duration of the event, ensuring maximum accessibility for holiday shoppers and gaming fans alike.
Background
The "Chupa Chups Forever Fun House" focuses on providing an inclusive space for participants to engage with both multiplayer party games and surprise software titles. By leveraging high-profile gaming hardware, the event creates a platform for social gaming, allowing friends and family to compete in a public, communal setting.
This initiative highlights a growing trend of "experiential retail," where brands utilize physical activations to foster stronger connections with their audience. By providing complimentary access to hardware and confectionery, the partnership aims to drive foot traffic to Westfield Parramatta while reinforcing the brand presence of both IGN Australia and Chupa Chups.
Timeline
The event is scheduled to run for four consecutive days at the beginning of October. The following table outlines the specific operating hours for visitors planning their trip to the activation.
| Date | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Thursday, October 1 | 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday, October 2 | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday, October 3 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday, October 4 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Key Details
The event will be hosted at Westfield Parramatta, located on Level 2 at the Centre Court, directly opposite the Samsung store. Admission to the installation is entirely free of charge, with no ticket purchase required for entry.
Attendees will have access to a variety of popular multiplayer titles, including Minecraft Dungeons II, Super Smash Bros Ultimate, and Mario Kart World. Furthermore, the organizers have committed to rotating surprise game titles throughout the four-day period to keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors.
Impact
The activation serves as a major draw for local gamers, offering the chance to win high-value hardware, including a custom-built, one-off gaming PC produced by Aftershock. This specific piece of hardware will remain on display within the Fun House throughout the event period.
In addition to the custom PC, the event features a significant prize pool. Participants can enter for a chance to win various current-generation consoles, including the PlayStation 5, the Xbox Series X, and the Switch 2. Entry requires visitors to scan a designated QR code on-site and follow the social media channels of the involved organizers.
| Prize Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grand Prize | Custom, one-off Chupa Chups Gaming PC by Aftershock |
| Secondary Prizes | Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch 2 |
| Entry Method | On-site QR code scan and social media engagement |
| Eligibility | Australian residents only (T&Cs apply) |
What Happens Next
While the event dates are confirmed, the organizers have indicated that comprehensive event details will be released in the near future. Interested parties are encouraged to monitor the official IGN Australia Facebook and Instagram profiles for real-time updates and announcements regarding the activation.
Prospective attendees should keep an eye on these social media channels for the official release of the terms and conditions, as well as any last-minute adjustments to the scheduled activities. As the October holiday period approaches, further logistical information regarding the queueing system and specific tournament rules is expected to follow.
