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TOKYO : To have fun with a video game, one no longer needs a console. An amusement park in Tokyo has successfully converted a popular game into its main attraction.
Tokyo Dome City is adorned with a blue water drop called Slime.
It is a mascot of a popular game series "Dragon Quest" in Japan, which is only outsold by Mario and Pokemon.
Today, "Slime" is almost as recognisable as Pikachu in Japan.
To cash in on its growing popularity, Slime has been made into an edible mascot. Some "Slime" comes in the form of meat dumplings, while others are sold as cookies.
Even drumsticks are transformed into weapons used in the popular game.
And there are many other products related to popular characters that are flying off the shelves.
Dragon Quest is regarded as one of the most successful role playing games internationally, selling 53 million units worldwide. It has become so popular that it has not only turned into an animation, but also an amusement park ride.
One visitor said: "I can enjoy the rides. I can collect stamps, it has been fun."
Tomonari Suzuki, marketing, Tokyo Dome Corporation, said: "On July 15, a colour code was released for Nintendo Wii's software. For that game, there is an item available only here. And if you collect many stamps, you receive a certificate called the Legend of a Brave Man. It is a premium item."
Mr Suzuki said it was not easy transforming the game concept into features for an amusement park.
But all the hard work has paid off as the park is attracting not only kids but grown ups as well.
It is a much needed boost as the park's business was slowing down because of the country's low birthrate.
Besides Dragon Quest, there is also a water fountain, which moves to the rhythm of the game's well-known music. It is a great way to beat the summer heat. - CNA/ms
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