Snack Chat

Doritos Invites Fans to Vote in Final Leg of 'Xbox Challenge'

It’s hard to believe that I’m coming up on my six-month anniversary at Frito-Lay. One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about working here is the many cool projects I’m able to work on -- from the launch of Crash the Super Bowl, to introducing (and sampling) new products, to kicking off the Tostitos "Connect to Home Bowl" just last week. For me, there’s no better feeling in the world than seeing a project through to completion and sharing the results of all the hard work that has gone into making something a success.

That great sense of accomplishment is something I’m sure Jill Robertson of Raleigh, N.C., and Justin Carpenter of Ogden, Utah, must be feeling right about now. That’s because their game ideas –- “Avatar Crash Course” created by Jill and “Harm’s Way” created by Justin -– are the two finalists in the Doritos “Unlock Xbox” challenge, the contest that gives gaming enthusiasts the opportunity to play a lead role in developing their own unique video games that bring to life the bold, intense spirit of Doritos.

Jill and Justin didn’t reach the final leg of this contest overnight. They participated in several months of intense competition that included an online vote and in-person pitches to Microsoft and Doritos execs. And for the past several months, they’ve been working with Xbox and a team of professional developers to turn their submission ideas into reality (be sure to check out this cool video documentary to see the entire experience for yourself).

From now until Dec. 26, fans can download and play “Avatar Crash Course” and “Harm’s Way” on Xbox LIVE and vote for the contest winner to be announced live on Xbox LIVE on Dec. 29. There’s a grand prize of $50,000 and a chance to consult with Doritos on gaming up for grabs, so be sure to cast your vote before it’s too late.

Here’s more information on the two finalist games:

“Avatar Crash Course” is high-energy fun for everyone and full of comical mishaps. Players maneuver their avatars through ruthless obstacles and crazy levels as they battle to be No. 1. “Avatar Crash Course” can be enjoyed in multiplayer mode with up to four friends, or solo as you try to level up and beat your best times to get the gold. Either way, you’ll have a chance to get great power-ups, including shoes to run faster and a belt that improves balance.

“Harm’s Way” is a fast-paced, action-packed race that pairs up drivers and snipers, offering a variety of game modes. As a sniper, players will help their driver win by any means necessary -- from blocking an opponent’s path to creating shortcuts that earn nitrous. When you’re the driver, you'll want to be aggressive and ram the other cars off the road. Enjoy four-player split screens, online play and plenty of explosions.

You can read more about the contest here.

- Alexia 

Frito-Lay Helps Kick Off High School Football Season With 'Score for Your School' Program

Hey everybody! I’m Michael Karle, Internal Communications Manager for Frito-Lay, at our headquarters office in Plano, Texas (pictured at right with my daughter, Jocelyn – born July 8th!). I’ve worked with Dave and Kristin to support Snack Chat since it launched, and am thrilled to be stepping out from behind the scenes to blog about what’s going on at Frito-Lay!

I grew up in New Jersey (which I promise is nothing like what you see on TV these days), and while I was never a great athlete, I’ve always enjoyed watching sports -- especially the local professional football teams. Since moving to Texas, I’ve certainly found my share of Cowboys fans, and living around the corner from a high school, I also have the opportunity to see (and hear) firsthand the extra passion and enthusiasm that Texans have for their high school football teams.

So, it’s clear to me why Frito-Lay is helping to kick off high school football season in Texas with the “Score for Your School” program, which invites fans to support their schools for the chance to win donations of up to $10,000 for school sports programs. Through Dec. 31, Texas fans can visit www.scoreforyourschool.com, enter the nine-digit product code listed on bags of Frito-Lay snacks and select the Texas high school of their choice. Schools collect one point for each Frito-Lay snack a fan purchases and then registers on the Web site.

I recently read an article in the Sports Business Journal about how schools across the country have had to cut their athletic budgets and either find new ways to fund sports teams or else eliminate them entirely. It’s because of challenges like this that Frito-Lay will donate a total of $90,000 to 18 high schools across the state, with three prizes awarded in each of Texas’ six divisional classes.

This program is an easy and fun way for fans across Texas to support their favorite schools and help preserve high school sports programs. You can visit www.scoreforyourschool.com for more information, and become a fan of "Score for Your School" on Facebook.

-Michael