How to promote Gears of War in Japan (hint: models)

At Microsoft’s CERO Z Game for Adults fiesta they premiered Gears of War, Riot Act (Crackdown), the Godfather and Vampire Rain to the public. Gamers over 18 could come to the event and try out the games at game stations. While this isn’t an official party for Gears of War, the CERO Z fest is one of the first events with the game in Japan. Mariko Okubo was the event’s special guest. Having her come is similar to how Lindsay Lohan showed up at the Gears of War Hollywood launch party. She’s an model, but this isn’t her first video game appearance, she’s actually featured in a poster hidden in Metal Gear Solid 3.