Authenticity and Customization
Original Inspiration
Original Inspiration
Original Inspiration
Original image from 1970s Florida Gulf Map.
Sample Update
Original Inspiration
Original Inspiration
SAMPLE update. This is not final art style. It shows that updates and, most importantly, customization can be made from the original images. This brings Route1 forward to contemporary times, allowing anyone to find themselves on Route 1.
Social Media: Turning Characters into Influencers
In the Route 1 universe, characters aren’t just images on merchandise — they’re personalities that live online. Each can have their own social media accounts, with voices and storylines that are fun, engaging, and universally friendly. No controversy, no sharp edges — just approachable, entertaining content that draws people in.
When customers connect their own accounts to the characters, they’ve “adopted” through merchandise, those characters can become part of their online world — showing up in posts, tagging other characters, and creating a network of fans who discover each other through shared interactions.
Over time, these characters can develop relationships, rivalries, and ongoing story arcs with one another — all playing out on social platforms. This interplay can spark viral moments, deepen emotional connections, and turn casual followers into loyal customers. Character development becomes a driver for both creativity and commerce, steering new opportunities for engagement, merchandise, and community growth.
Social Content Opportunities for the Route 1 Universe
- Character Story Clips (Animation / Video Production)
- Short-form videos (TikTok/Reels/YouTube Shorts) showing characters in daily situations, reacting to trending topics in a fun, safe way.
- Could use animation, puppetry, or AR overlays.
- AR Filters & Lenses (AR Development / UX Design)
- Fans can place their chosen character into their own photos and videos.
- Filters could change expressions, outfits, or settings for the character.
- Character “Takeovers” (Social Media Strategy / Creative Writing)
- A character “runs” the brand’s main social account for a day, posting stories, polls, and videos in their unique voice.
- Could be coordinated with special promotions or product drops.
- Interactive Polls & Choices (Community Management / Writing)
- Followers vote on what the character does next (e.g., “Should Trip take the scenic route or the shortcut?”).
- Results influence the next day’s content, keeping followers invested.
- Cross-Character Interactions (Creative Writing / Social Strategy)
- Two or more characters from different accounts tag, comment, and respond to each other in public threads.
- Creates an ongoing “shared universe” storyline fans can follow.
- Fan-Generated Content Features (Community Engagement / Social Moderation)
- Fans post photos with their merch and tag the character account.
- Characters “respond” in character — thanking them, teasing them, or continuing the storyline.
- Event-Based Storylines (Writing / Design)
- Characters “attend” major holidays, cultural moments, or local events.
- Could be tied to location-based merch or AR experiences.
- Episodic Mini-Series (Storyboarding / Animation / Video Production)
- Weekly posts that follow a multi-part story, encouraging fans to tune in regularly.
- Builds anticipation and strengthens emotional connection.