We've seen some pretty silly marketing stunts in our time, but at least Capcom's Resident Evil 5 blood drive will save lives as well as cynically advertise a videogame. That's right, Capcom will be hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross to collect our blood along with our money on the game's launch day of March 13.

The event will be held at the World of Wonder Gallery on Hollywood Blvd. in Hollywood, California, where there will also be a raffle to win the limited edition red Xbox 360 and the chance to get hold of exclusive Resident Evil blood drive items.

Absolutely ludicrous. Still, it's for a good cause at the end of the day, and I'm sure it'll be fun. If you're in the area, swing by. It's about the only time you'll see a game publisher literally acting like a bloodsucking parasite, instead of just metaphorically.

Come Give Resident Evil 5 A Shot and

Make A Positive Change For the Community on Resident Evil 5 Launch Day

Capcom will usher in the launch of Resident Evil 5 (on Xbox 360® and PlayStation 3) on Friday, March 13th by partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive. On the way to pick up their very own copy of Resident Evil 5, gamers in the LA area will be invited to give back to the community by donating blood at the World of Wonder gallery on Hollywood Blvd. in Hollywood, Calif. from 11 am – 5 pm. In addition, fans of the series will have the chance to get exclusive limited-edition Resident Evil 5 Blood Drive collectibles, win copies of the game, enter a raffle for one of several exclusive red Xbox 360® Resident Evil limited edition consoles and most importantly, do their part to help a good cause.

Kiosks showcasing the game will also be on-hand for fans to get a sneak peek at the eagerly anticipated new game before heading to retailers to buy their own copy. Generous fans who donate blood will receive exclusive Resident Evil 5 limited edition items created specifically for this event, including a series of hand-numbered stylized posters, bumper stickers, buttons and a chance to win a copy of the game or an exclusive red Xbox 360® Resident Evil limited edition console. All Type‘O fans will learn that they can B Positive agents for their community, and they will find that AB it of blood can go a long way.

If you are interested in covering the event, please contact Melody or Laura (all contact info is below)

Those who would like to participate can pledge and schedule appointments by visiting http://www.capcom-unity.com/snow_inf...ed_xbox_bundle. For more information on blood donation eligibility requirements visit http://www.givelife2.org/donor/faq.asp.

When:

Friday, March 13, 2009

11 AM - 5 PM

Where:

World of Wonder Gallery

6650 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028