McDonald's UK & Ireland has launched a limited-edition gaming collaboration called the XBOX-inspired Side Missions menu, connecting fans to six of Microsoft's most recognisable gaming worlds: Halo: Campaign Evolved, Fallout 76, Forza Horizon 6, Overwatch, World of Warcraft and Candy Crush. But reviewer Sophie Buchan found the items disappointing, saying she'd rather stick to McDonald's regular menu.
Bland Cheesy Potato Bites
The Blamco Cheesy Potato Bites, inspired by Fallout 76, were described by McDonald's as "golden, crispy potato rings with a soft, fluffy centre" filled with "melty cheese and served with ketchup for a sweet, tangy finish". However, Buchan found them tasteless, with the coating lacking flavour and only a hint of cheese detectable. Even ketchup couldn't save them.
Black Pepper & Garlic McNuggets
The Black Pepper & Garlic McNuggets, inspired by the moa bird from Halo, were made of 100% chicken breast meat in a crispy coating with a kick of black pepper and garlic. Buchan said these were actually good, though they could have had more flavour. She noted her order was missing the sweet and sour dip, which might have added the kick she wanted. Dipping them in the Fiery Buffalo Dip added a kick, and she thinks World of Warcraft fans will enjoy it.
Sour Cherry Fizz and Choco McFlurry
The Forza Horizon 6-inspired Sour Cherry Fizz was a refreshing mix of Sprite Zero and a sugar-free sour cherry-flavoured syrup. Buchan described it as lovely and just what she needed after her shift. In contrast, the Candy Crush Choco McFlurry, billed as a "colourful and playful dessert", was just chocolate with no bright toppings or sprinkles to match the description. The Sugar Donut, inspired by Kiriko's snack in Overwatch, tasted like a day-old doughnut.
Gaming rewards and availability
Beyond the food, Side Missions introduces a gamified journey where fans can use Reward points to unlock exclusive in-game items, including a car voucher for Forza Horizon 6, a Sugar Bomb Bundle in Fallout 76, a Red Hot Portable Bakery in World of Warcraft, and a Candy Crush Choco McFlurry. Daily deals are available via the McDonald's App. The limited-edition menu is available in McDonald's restaurants across the UK and Ireland for a limited time.
Prices include 6 Piece Black Pepper & Garlic McNuggets at £5.39, Cheesy Potato Bites at £2.69, Fiery Buffalo Dip at £0.70, Candy Crush Choco McFlurry at £2.69, Sugar Donut at £2.19, and Sour Cherry Fizz at £2.29. Buchan concluded: "It was fine, but I won't be ordering from this menu again and I'll be sticking to the regular options instead."
