Hockey Paradise: Lightning Introduce Real-Time Animated Broadcast

TAMPA – For all the hard work the Lightning have done to grow hockey around Tampa Bay, especially among kids, what they’ll do to reach new fans Saturday afternoon will introduce them to a whole new world.

A Virtual, Animated World

The Lightning, along with the NHL, will produce a real-time, animated broadcast of the 2 p.m. game against the Islanders, programming they are calling “Hockey Paradise.” It will be broadcast via the Lightning app, team website, and NHL.com.

Creating a Unique Experience

Using advances in the league’s puck- and player-tracking technology, they will create a real-time simulation of the game on a virtual floating rink in the shadow of palm trees. Jet Skis, speedboats, and cruise ships will pass by, and players will be sent to a penalty box reminiscent of a desert island.

Engaging the Youth

“This is an extension of just a general approach to get younger kids, whether they can barely walk or even into their teenage years, to think about the sport of hockey,” said Lightning chief marketing officer Matt Corey. “It’s not about getting them to play but learn about it and enjoy it.”

In many ways, the Lightning’s animated game will pay homage to Tampa Bay. The backdrop will include animated versions of area landmarks such as the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, St. Pete Pier, Jose Gasparilla pirate ship, roller coasters to represent Busch Gardens, the iconic white balustrade along Bayshore Boulevard, a downtown Tampa backdrop, and an animated version of Amalie Arena.

During breaks in play, a storyline will be intertwined with Lightning mascot ThunderBug exploring the area.

Technological Advancements

More than a decade ago, the NHL built a system to track puck and player movement, and now they have created an animated game using this technology.

Two years ago, the NHL produced its first full-length animated game with the help of Beyond Sports. Last year, the league installed cameras in every arena to track players’ positions and create more realistic movement.

Future of Animated Broadcasts

After the success of local animated games, the NHL is considering expanding this programming. The Lightning will have a different crew for the animated game broadcast, featuring former Lightning defenseman Braydon Coburn and NHL junior reporter Wyatt Ross.

The Lightning’s animated broadcast will coincide with Kids Day Saturday at Amalie Arena, inviting families to watch the animated broadcast for free in Thunder Alley.

Conclusion

The Lightning’s innovative approach to an animated broadcast is a step towards engaging a younger audience and providing a unique viewing experience for fans of all ages.

FAQs

Q: Where will the animated broadcast be available?

A: The animated broadcast can be accessed via the Lightning app, team website, and NHL.com.

Q: Will the regular local broadcasts be affected by animated games?

A: No, the animated broadcasts have not negatively impacted regular local broadcasts.

Q: What is the goal of the NHL’s experimentation with animated broadcasts?

A: The NHL aims to appeal to younger and female viewers while testing new forms of game presentation.