By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief US toy giant Mattel has recruited gaming industry veteran Mike DeLaet to guide its future in digital gaming and Web3 licensing. The former SVP of mobile game developer Scopely will be tasked with creating new products and licensing opportunities as Mattel's new global head of digital gaming. In that role, DeLaet's primary reponsibility will … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Mike DeLaet To Lead Mattel’s Future in Gaming, Metaverse
Toys and Games
Squishmallows Unveils Pokemon Plush at San Diego Comic-Con
Jazwares officially said, "Pikachu! I choose you!" this week, as the innovative toyco unveiled its new Squishmallows x Pokèmon collection at San Diego Comic-Con. The plush collection is a collaboration with The Pokémon Company International, combining the loveable personalities of Squishmallows with the most iconic Pokémon in the franchise. “Joining forces with Pokémon to … [Read more...] about Squishmallows Unveils Pokemon Plush at San Diego Comic-Con
Funko Turns Up the Heat With Summer Loungefly Showcase
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Loungefly, a lifestyle brand from Funko, has announced a new brand experience called Summer of Loungefly, to showcase the latest summer collections. Hosted at Goya Studios, the event will allow fashion and pop culture enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the Loungefly brand and its high-end apparel line, Stitch Shoppe. The event will feature … [Read more...] about Funko Turns Up the Heat With Summer Loungefly Showcase
Spin Master Lands Master Toy Agreement with Sony Interactive
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Canadian-based Spin Master has just landed a massive deal with Sony Interactive, making it the master toy maker for all PlayStation and SIE video games. Spin Master will now hold the toy license for hits like God of War, The Last of Us, UNCHARTED, and Horizon Zero Dawn, among many others. Spin Master plans to release lines in the categories … [Read more...] about Spin Master Lands Master Toy Agreement with Sony Interactive
Who’s News: Game Licensing Firm Arcade1Up Levels Up Management Team
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Game licensing company Arcade1Up has announced three additions to the company’s senior leadership team. The new hires include Tom Lyons as Chief Marketing Officer, Adriana Vila Soto as SVP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships, and Chris Cardenas as Vice President of Sales. “Arcade1Up is at a pivotal growth stage with exciting and … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Game Licensing Firm Arcade1Up Levels Up Management Team
Social Media: Tik Tok Star Addison Rae Announces First Toy Line
Addison Rae, the fourth most popular social media star on Tok Tok, has announced her first toy line, in partnership with Bonkers Toys. “I have dreamt of having my own doll line since I was a little girl,” said Rae. “I worked with Bonkers Toys on every detail of the dolls and toys to inspire young kids to dream big.” In a deal brokered by agency IMG, Addison's new collection … [Read more...] about Social Media: Tik Tok Star Addison Rae Announces First Toy Line
World of EPI Gains Master Toy License for LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells
LL Cool J's hip hop venture Rock The Bells will be rockin' new merchandise at Walmart, thanks to a licensing deal with World of EPI. Founded in 2018 by LL COOL J, Rock The Bells focuses on content, experiences, and commerce that honor the timeless elements of hip hop (MCs, DJs, breakdancers, graffiti artists, etc.) that drive mainstream culture today. World of EPI … [Read more...] about World of EPI Gains Master Toy License for LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells
Sustainable Licensing: Mattel Releasing Barbies Inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief You don't get much greener than a toy line based on Dr. Jane Goodall, and produced from recycled, ocean-bound plastic. Mattel is introducing a Dr. Jane Goodall Inspiring Women Doll and 2022 Barbie Career of The Year Eco-Leadership Team, which includes a Chief Sustainability Officer, Conservation Scientist, Renewable Energy Engineer and … [Read more...] about Sustainable Licensing: Mattel Releasing Barbies Inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall
Ninja Turtles Unite with Stranger Things For New Toy Line
Stranger Things has gotten even stranger, as the franchise is partnering with Playmates Toys for a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle crossover. Netflix is partnering with the Hong Kong-based toyco for a line of action figures based on characters from both of the popular shows. Designed for kids eight and up, each toy pack features one Ninja Turtles figure and one character … [Read more...] about Ninja Turtles Unite with Stranger Things For New Toy Line
LEGO Offers A Mightier Mighty Bowser in Latest Adult Kit
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The LEGO Group has announced Bowser as the latest addition to the licensed LEGO Super Mario Adult product line. The newly released product is the Mighty Bowser building kit which is a highly detailed recreation of the King of the Koopas. Once built, the Bowser kit features controllable movements and the ability to launch a fireball made from … [Read more...] about LEGO Offers A Mightier Mighty Bowser in Latest Adult Kit