Soft drink giant The Coca-Cola Company has teamed up with Xbox to launch a nostalgia-fuelled campaign celebrating 25 years of Xbox gaming culture — complete with a recreated 2000s gaming bedroom and a cross-generational gaming showdown.
As part of the ongoing “Wanta Fanta?” campaign, the collaboration brings together retro gaming memories and modern gaming culture, challenging players to prove whether old-school gamers can still compete against today’s generation.
Fans can learn more via Fanta UK and Xbox UK.
Dougie Poynter Takes on Gen Z Gamer Logboi1
The campaign stars Dougie Poynter, who stepped into the role of the “OG gamer” to face off against Gen Z gaming creator Dominic Bland.
The pair competed in a retro-inspired match of Halo: Combat Evolved inside a split gaming room designed to highlight the differences between gaming in the early 2000s and today.
One side featured a classic 00s set-up with bean bags, wired controllers, stacked CDs, DVDs, retro posters and cans of Fanta, while the modern side showcased LED lighting, wireless accessories and sleek gaming rigs.
Dougie Poynter said the experience felt like “stepping back to being 16 years old”, adding that gaming may have evolved visually, but the competitive spirit remains the same.
The “Wanta Fanta?” Campaign Explained
The activation forms part of Fanta’s wider collaboration with Xbox celebrating the gaming platform’s 25th anniversary. Limited-edition Fanta cans inspired by iconic gaming franchises including Halo, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft and Diablo IV are now available across the UK.
Consumers can scan QR codes on the packs to unlock gaming challenges, digital activations and prize draws, with rewards including Xbox Series S consoles, controllers and in-game content.
Gaming Nostalgia Meets Modern Streaming Culture
The campaign taps into the growing popularity of retro gaming nostalgia while recognising how gaming culture has transformed over the last two decades.
From split-screen multiplayer sessions in cramped bedrooms to today’s streaming culture filled with RGB lighting and wireless tech, the collaboration aims to bridge generations of gamers through shared experiences.
Marina Nastyushenko, Brand Manager for Fanta, said the campaign celebrates “the memories, friendships and moments shared over a game and a Fanta.”
She added that bringing together an OG gamer and a new generation of players perfectly captured the fun and nostalgia behind the “Wanta Fanta?” campaign.
Where to Buy the Limited-Edition Fanta Xbox Cans
The limited-edition Fanta and Xbox packs are available nationwide now at major UK retailers.
