Unless you’ve been chilling on a deserted island (and if so, can I join you?), you know that unboxing videos have taken the internet by storm. From high-tech gadgets and video game action figures to everyday items like blenders, these videos cover it all—and, of course, they include our beloved video game collectibles. Given their viral popularity, I thought it would be fun to dig deeper and “unbox” what all the fuss is about.
In a nutshell, an unboxing video is someone recording themselves as they open a new product and share it with the world. It sounds simple, right? But there’s something about these videos that has people hooked. So, what’s the big deal? Why are we so fascinated by watching others open boxes?
Unboxing videos dish out the real scoop that slick ads often miss: the actual size, shape, and look of a product in normal lighting, handled by a regular person. If you’re considering buying something, these videos give you the inside info you crave—no marketing fluff. They act like video reviews, showing what’s in the box and sharing honest opinions. It’s like getting a sneak peek without spending a dime. This makes unboxing videos a go-to for reducing pre-purchase anxiety. Video game collectibles often feature prominently in these videos, providing a tangible look at gaming figures and video game memorabilia that fans eagerly anticipate.
Viewers love the raw, unpolished nature of unboxing videos. Unlike the polished ads, these videos give a candid, unfiltered look at products. People want to see what they’re really getting, beyond the marketing magic. This down-to-earth perspective is appealing, even if they’re not planning to buy the item. It’s the real deal, no filter.
Who doesn’t love a good surprise? Unboxing videos tap into our inner child’s excitement—remember the thrill of finding a prize in a cereal box or a gumball machine? Video game collectibles often bring this sense of joy, especially when unboxing video game figurines or other exclusive items. Pamela Rutledge, Director of the Media Psychology Research Center, says this curiosity and desire to know what’s inside are part of our essential makeup. Viewers share the vlogger’s joy and surprise, making the experience fun and exciting, even from the sidelines.
The buildup to the big reveal in unboxing videos is a thrill ride. The slow, step-by-step process of opening the package, peeling back layers, and finally unveiling the product is a cherished ritual. Apple nails this with packaging that’s an extension of their product, designed to maximize emotional impact. At WAYPOINT, we do the same with our video game collectibles, creating an experience that mirrors the in-game excitement. The WAYPOINT | Wasteland 3, Collector’s Edition and WAYPOINT | The Order: 1886, Collectors Edition are perfect examples.
We’re living in a time of cool, innovative products that we might not need but definitely want. Even if we can’t afford them, unboxing videos let us admire and dream. For tech geeks, watching an unboxing of a new smart home device is like a virtual shopping spree. It keeps us in the loop and satisfies our curiosity, even if our wallets don’t agree.
Opening a new product is a special experience, and unboxing videos let us live it vicariously. The sounds and sights of unboxing create a sensory thrill, making it easy to imagine owning the product. This emotional connection makes unboxing videos a feel-good form of entertainment—think of it as Binge Watching Unboxing Therapy (BWUT). It’s a fun way to experience the excitement without actually opening anything yourself.
So, it’s no surprise that unboxing videos are here to stay. As business owners and marketers, it’s important to think about the entire unboxing experience when designing video game merchandise and video game collectibles. When vloggers unbox your item (and they will!), you want viewers to be captivated and excited about what’s inside.
As a leading video game marketing agency, we understand the impact of a great unboxing experience.
To wrap things up, check out this unboxing video of the We Happy Few Time Capsule by WAYPOINT (the CE, not the video!). Enjoy!
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