Shift + K + F + C
In a bold move to connect with a growing segment of digital-native gamers, KFC introduced the world’s first cheat code ordering system—a keyboard shortcut (Shift + K + F + C) that allowed gamers to place orders without leaving their game screens. By typing this custom command, users could instantly order their pre-saved meal, making the experience both frictionless and deeply relevant to gaming culture. The innovation turned a simple online order into a gamified, cool, and seamless interaction.
client
role
Year
Client Brief
Objective:
Drive up online orders among a younger, tech-savvy audience, particularly gamers.
Create a culturally resonant, low-cost idea that feels native to gaming environments.
Strengthen the brand's identity as youthful, bold, and innovative.
Key Mandates:
No change to the current website UI/UX.
Zero media/production budget.
Must be easily scalable across multiple markets.
Creative Direction
Approach:
Gamify the UX: Introduce a playful, familiar mechanism—cheat codes—used in games to give players shortcuts and power.
Cultural relevance: Tap into gamer behaviors by mimicking a gaming convention with functional real-world output.
Simplicity at scale: Implemented with a single line of code and integrated with KFC's existing ordering system.
Tone: Clever, fast, tech-native
Visual Style:
Gaming keyboard aesthetic
Minimalist UI with red highlights (KFC identity)
Bold, punchy typography
Result Highlights:
+300% increase in online orders
Activated in 11 countries
$0 production cost
