Year: 2024

Spin Master’s Toca Boca studio, with its commitment to self-expression and inclusivity in gaming, is entering the multiplayer domain with Toca Boca Days digital game, being released this year beginning this summer. This strategic expansion caters to the evolving needs of kids and tweens by providing an emotionally rewarding and safe multiplayer environment. Over the past decade, Toca Boca studio has been at the forefront of innovative gaming, emphasizing play, self-expression and creativity with more than 60 million monthly active users and awards like Apple’s 2021 iPhone App of the Year. The introduction of Toca Boca Days digital game marks the studios strategic entry into the realm of multiplayer online gaming, a popular and growing gaming category for tweens worldwide.

Clever Noodle, an award-winning startup dedicated to creating engaging educational games, has announced the launch of its phonics-based game, Popped!, in collaboration with world-acclaimed artist Jeff Koons. The dynamic and immersive game is designed to make learning to read an enjoyable adventure, with Koons’ iconic Balloon Dog serving as the game’s visual centerpiece. “Popped!” was co-developed with national literacy experts to make sure it helps equip children with essential reading skills – while fostering a love for learning and art. It leverages the science of reading, an evidence-based approach that addresses the complex process of how children’s brains learn to read and write.

The Horde can delve into the world of deadmau5 like never before with the launch of his toy line with TOYMAK3RS, set to debut at retro5pective—an homage to 25 years of his musical legacy. This ultra-limited, exclusive collectable keychain collection features six unique clip-on plush toys, each granting access to digital VIP experiences using cutting-edge technology that transcends traditional music memorabilia. The toys are available exclusively at deadmau5’ ‘retrospective’ shows in Los Angeles now, May 2 & 3 in New York City, and online while supplies last at www.mau5hop.com.

Children and youth are facing mental and behavioral health conditions at staggering rates (1), and play is a powerful tool clinically proven to help manage and improve children’s mental and behavioral health. Studies (2) have shown play therapy in a hospital setting reduces anxiety and negative emotions, as well as well as helps children express and communicate their feelings and emotions through toys. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, The Toy Foundation (TTF) facilitated an interview between VTech Electronics, a partner of TTF’s Children’s Hospital Play Grants program, and MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach (Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital), a 2024 play grants recipient, to discuss how play is a vital tool for medical teams to provide pediatric patients with developmentally-appropriate mental and behavioral health support while undergoing treatment.

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, Barbie is thrilled to honor US figure skating champion and Olympic gold medalist, Kristi Yamaguchi, with an Inspiring Women doll. As the first Asian American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in figure skating, a best-selling author and children’s literacy advocate, Yamaguchi is a trailblazer on and off the ice. She is a source of inspiration for young girls across the globe to relentlessly pursue their passions.

The Pokémon Company International has unveiled that monpoké, a delightful expression from the Pokémon brand featuring curated, Pokémon-branded baby and toddler offerings, has released in additional markets around the world. Previously exclusive to Asia, the popular monpoké expression has expanded its footprint to reach the littlest Pokémon Trainers with engaging content, licensed merchandise and adorable books highlighting fan-favorite Pokémon like Pikachu, Dedenne, Smeargle and more.

UNIS Technology Ltd, a leading manufacturer of amusement and arcade games, has joined forces with acclaimed London based toy and entertainment company, Toikido, to unveil the Piñata Smashlings crane. This innovative collaboration brings the wildly popular Roblox game, Piñata Smashlings, to life in the physical world, offering fans a truly immersive experience.

Goliath proudly announces the acquisition of Lucky Duck Games, best known for its industry-leading Digital Hybrid board games such as Chronicles of Crime and Destinies. Goliath, a global leader in kids & family games with multi-generational hits like Triominos, Rummikub, Sequence & Pop the Pig, has been building success in the Adult Games category, published under Endless Games. Notable releases include the nation’s #1 crime game, Unsolved Case Files, and the international hit Party Game Sh*t Happens, with more kidult games slated for release under its global distribution deal with Funko Games announced last month.

TikTok live streaming is all the rage, and no one is doing it like POP MART! The renowned designer toy and entertainment brand from Asia currently expanding its US presence is at the forefront of retail innovation, leveraging TikTok live streaming to connect with shoppers in a fun and interactive way. The live streams aren’t just about selling products; they’re about inspiring excitement! The dedicated TikTok hosts engage with viewers to share sneak peeks of upcoming launches and also perform live unboxings, where customers can have the host personally select their product and open it live during the stream! This unique “live unboxing” approach replicates the blind box experience POP MART is known for, allowing viewers that sense of anticipation, surprise, and delight.