Xbox’s ‘Rough Guide’ travel book positions its universe as a must-see destination

Microsoft’s Xbox has teamed up with the publishers of the “Rough Guides” travel manuals to publish a guidebook to its universe. It details the wonders of destinations found in titles like "Halo 5: Guardians," "Metro Exodus" and "Forza Horizon 4," all of which are available on Xbox Game Pass.

“The Rough Guide to Xbox” follows the format of its real-world counterparts and features top travel tips and photos shot by a professional in-game photographer. It's part of a campaign by McCann London that kicked off last year seeking to position the Xbox world as a travel destination. 

It was recently launched at London’s “Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show,” the U.K.’s biggest holiday and travel event. There, attendees could also stop by at a dedicated “Visit Xbox” stand aimed at showcasing the travel potential of Xbox’s worlds.

It will be available to purchase from the online Microsoft Store from Feb. 5 and, at a later date, in an e-book format. All proceeds will go to U.K. charity SpecialEffect, which works on making gaming more accessible.

“Some of the ancient ruins, national monuments and natural wonders in Xbox games are every bit as goosebump-y, bucket list-y, and worth seeking out as those in the real world,” said Sanjiv Mistry  and Jamie Mietz, executive creative directors at McCann London in a statement.”So it’s only fitting that there’s now a Rough Guide to Xbox, a vital tool to help people plan their trips to game worlds just as they would to any other destination.”