The Verdict
The Emirates 777 “Game Changer” first class is widely considered the best first class product in the world. Floor-to-ceiling doors, Mercedes-Benz inspired design, and a private suite that feels more like a hotel room than an airplane seat. Only 9 planes have it.
When Emirates unveiled their new Boeing 777-300ER first class suites in 2017, they weren’t exaggerating by calling it a “Game Changer.” These suites didn’t just improve first class – they redefined what’s possible at 40,000 feet.
Seven years later, aviation experts, travel bloggers, and frequent flyers still rank it as the best first class seat money can buy.
What Makes It “The Best”?
Unlike traditional first class seats that partition passengers from the aisle, the Game Changer suites are fully enclosed private rooms. We’re talking floor-to-ceiling walls with sliding doors that seal you off completely from the cabin.
- Floor-to-ceiling walls and sliding doors
- 32-inch HD TV (largest in any commercial first class)
- Fully flat bed with luxury bedding
- Personal mini-bar with champagne and spirits
- Zero-gravity seating position
- NASA-inspired seats developed with Mercedes-Benz
- Virtual windows for middle suites (cameras show exterior views)
- Customizable lighting and temperature
The Mercedes-Benz Connection
This isn’t just a marketing partnership. Emirates actually worked with Mercedes-Benz’s design team to develop the suite aesthetics and ergonomics.
The influence shows in the details: the soft leather finishes, the brushed chrome accents, the intuitive control panels. Even the seating positions – including a “zero-gravity” setting that distributes your weight evenly – came from automotive engineering.
It’s why reviewers consistently describe the experience as feeling more like a luxury car than an airplane seat.
Why Only 9 Planes Have It
Here’s the frustrating reality: despite all the hype, only 9 Boeing 777-300ERs in Emirates’ 250+ aircraft fleet have the Game Changer suites.
These are the last nine 777s Emirates took delivery of between 2017 and 2018. The airline hasn’t retrofitted any existing aircraft, and there are no announced plans to do so.
Emirates has 205 Boeing 777X aircraft on order. The Game Changer suites (or an evolution) are expected on these planes – but delivery has been delayed until 2027 at the earliest.
How to Find Game Changer Routes
Emirates rotates aircraft, so routes can change. But these destinations consistently see Game Changer-equipped 777s:
| Route | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| Dubai – Geneva (GVA) | High |
| Dubai – Brussels (BRU) | High |
| Dubai – Zurich (ZRH) | High |
| Dubai – London Heathrow (LHR) | Medium |
| Dubai – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) | Medium |
| Dubai – Tokyo Haneda (HND) | Medium |
Pro tip: Use ExpertFlyer or check the Emirates website for aircraft type. Look for 777-300ER with “First Class Suites” – not just “First Class.”
Game Changer vs. A380 First Class
Emirates operates two distinct first class products. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Game Changer (777) | A380 First |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | Floor-to-ceiling doors | Partial enclosure |
| Shower Spa | No | Yes (2 onboard) |
| Onboard Bar/Lounge | No | Yes |
| Suite Size | 40 sq ft | ~35 sq ft |
| TV Screen | 32 inches | 27 inches |
| Design Era | 2017 (newer) | 2008 (updated 2020) |
The verdict: Most reviewers prefer the Game Changer for pure luxury and privacy. But if you want the shower experience and onboard lounge, the A380 is still hard to beat.
The In-Flight Experience
Dining
Forget airline food stereotypes. Emirates first class offers on-demand dining with multi-course tasting menus, including:
- Unlimited caviar service
- Vintage champagnes (Dom Pérignon, Krug)
- Regionally-inspired cuisine from Michelin-level chefs
- Full bar with premium spirits
Sleep
The seat converts to a fully flat bed with a mattress pad, luxury duvet, and multiple pillow options. Combined with the climate control and noise isolation of the enclosed suite, passengers report hotel-quality sleep.
Entertainment
The ICE entertainment system offers 5,000+ channels across movies, TV, music, and games. The 32-inch screen – paired with noise-canceling headphones – creates a genuine home theater experience.
How Much Does It Cost?
Cash prices for Game Changer routes vary significantly:
$4,000 – $8,000 one-way (shorter route, lower price)
$15,000 – $25,000 one-way (depends on timing)
136,000 Emirates Skywards or 100,000 Alaska miles + taxes
Is It Worth It?
If you’re going to splurge on first class, the Emirates Game Changer offers arguably the best value in ultra-luxury air travel. The combination of privacy, technology, and service is unmatched.
The challenge? Finding it. With only 9 planes and inconsistent route scheduling, booking the Game Changer requires planning and flexibility.
How to Book:
- Check known Game Changer routes (Geneva, Brussels, Zurich)
- Verify aircraft type shows “777-300ER First Class Suites”
- Book directly with Emirates or via Alaska Mileage Plan
- Check award availability 330 days out for best selection
All cabin images courtesy of Emirates. For more information, visit Emirates First Class.
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