Gorillaz’s Kong Studios returns as immersive online video game

Gorillaz have announced the return of fan-favourite virtual experience Kong Studios, originally launched via the band’s website two decades ago.

A trailer teasing Kong Studios’ return was shared on September 9 by the band, alongside a cryptic description reading: “Kong Studios is the home of Gorillaz, a gamified fan experience.”

The experience allows users to “explore the rooms and spaces of 2D, Murdoc, Noodle and Russel”, and also promises to provide updates on all things Gorillaz.

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“It’s the go-to place to find out everything you want to know about Gorillaz, first,” the description read, revealing that the “lobby” would open on September 10 at 4pm BST via their website.

The trailer gave a first look at the game, reminiscent of the original virtual experience, complete with a gloomy, apocalyptic backdrop and stormy weather.

Once inside the virtual world, users are told to battle their way "through the graveyard, past a band of zombie gorillas” using weapons found through the game, in order to enter the gates of Kong Studios.

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The return of Kong Studios comes just after the group celebrated their 25th anniversary, completing a round of shows at London’s Copper Box Arena over the course of four dates last week.

The celebrations also included the launch of an exhibition, House of Kong, which looked behind the curtain of Gorillaz’ artistry over the years – a journey through “the band’s life of misadventures, musical innovation and groundbreaking virtual ways”.

Ahead of their four-date run of shows, frontman Damon Albarn teased the release of new music, which they debuted during their final show on Wednesday, September 3.

Try out Kong Studios here, and check out the trailer below.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter