TaikooGo

A location-based game that connects a neighbourhood to its history

Swire Properties is committed to sustainable development. They wanted to launch a fun, interactive experience that helped people learn about the ecology and history of Taikoo Place, Cityplaza, and Taikoo Shing — once home to Swire’s Taikoo Dockyard and Taikoo Sugar Refinery.

The problem archetype

The app needed to engage children and families, not just once but repeatedly. It had to educate users about biodiversity and heritage, strengthen their connection to the neighbourhood, and keep them coming back. The experience also had to work outdoors across multiple building locations, with real-world GPS accuracy and device compatibility.

Our execution

We designed a GPS treasure hunt where users located real-world checkpoints, completed challenges, and collected digital cards about the area’s ecology and history. We mapped digital checkpoints to physical locations and designed the reward loop so completion felt meaningful, not transactional. After each successful quest, players could choose one of Swire’s NGO partners to receive a HK$10 donation from the company — adding purpose to the gameplay.

The outcome

The experience extended beyond the app into The Loop, Swire’s sustainable development exhibition centre, where users could continue learning. The app became a platform for community connection and social contribution, not just play.

What this means for your project

Physical places need digital experiences that pull people in and bring them back. We combine location technology, game mechanics, and brand purpose into one coherent product.