McFarlane Toys has signed on with SEGA to develop action figures inspired by the Persona 3 Reload video game.
The new 7-inch-tall articulated figures will feature characters from Persona 3 Reload. They’ll join other collectibles McFarlane Toys offers that feature popular video games, including Diablo IV, the Mortal Kombat series, Batman: Arkham City, and more.
Persona 3 Reload launched this past February. | Source: Atlus
Persona 3 Reload, a remake of the popular 2006 release Persona 3, launched in February. It was developed by Atlus’ internal P-Studio division and published by Atlus and SEGA. The Persona series overall is known for its combination of social simulation and traditional role-playing game elements. Persona 3 Reload is no exception, as players step into the role of a transfer student who finds friends and discovers new powers within the Dark Hour.
“We’ve been lucky enough over the past 30 years of McFarlane Toys to be able to partner with some awesome companies and this is no different,” says Todd McFarlane, Founder and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “We are excited to add SEGA and Atlus to our ever-growing roster of gaming licenses. These figures are going to be super cool, and we can’t wait for fans to see them!”
The Persona 3 Reload action figures from McFarlane will launch next year, both online and at select retailers. McFarlane expects to open preorders as the launch date gets closer.
Following an 18-month pitch — which included incumbent agency Initiative — The LEGO Group has appointed Publicis One as its new global media agency. The new agency will focus on strengthening The LEGO Group’s current connection to families and builders, as well as the company’s stance on the importance of play.
Publicis One, which is powered by Starcom, will navigate the evolving digital landscape while exploring new and authentic ways to engage with its audiences, as seen through The LEGO Group’s prior campaigns like Rebuild the World and Play Unstoppable.
“We were impressed with Publicis One’s depth and breadth of expertise — as well as their aligned cultural values,” says Julia Goldin, The LEGO Group’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer. “We look forward to working together to further enhance our ecosystem, leveraging their insights and capabilities to create engaging and meaningful experiences for our audiences. Together, we aim to inspire children and families globally, nurturing creativity and fostering learning through play.”
The new agency, which will start onboarding this month, will also work with Initiative for three months to ensure a smooth transition and maintain a strong brand presence.
“We would like to thank the team at Initiative/IPG for a great seven years. They have been with us every step of the way as we significantly grew the business, launched our first global brand campaign, and reached more children than ever before. We are grateful for their support and collaboration,” Goldin says.
For more information about The LEGO Group’s branding, visit lego.com.
Transformers: Galactic Trials is a racing adventure game that creates play experiences based on Transformers vehicle and robot modes. After Nemesis Prime steals the Prime Relics, the Autobots and Decepticons must roll out on an adventure to recover the relics. Players can take on the roles of Autobots or Decepticons, including Bumblebee, Megatron, Elita-1, and Optimus Prime to race through circuits and fight other robots.
The game features two game modes: Single-Player mode, which features progression through levels, and Arcade Mode, which features multiplayer races, track design, and specialized tournaments.
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
Transformers: Galactic Trials features game mode for both vehicle and robot forms. | Source: Outright Games
“It has been a pleasure to continue our collaboration with Hasbro and return to the world of Transformers”, says Stephanie Malham, Managing Director of Outright Games. “With 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of this iconic IP, we are very excited to be releasing the first ever console racing video game in the franchise’s history. With the inclusion of rogue-lite elements, Transformers: Galactic Trials’s gameplay complements the dynamic Transformers robots.”
“As Transformers celebrates its 40th year alongside the theatrical premiere of its first fully CG-animated film, Transformers One, we are proud to continue our collaboration with Outright Games to unveil an epic journey that speaks to the enduring legacy of the iconic brand,” says Eugene Evans, Senior Vice President Digital Strategy and Licensing at Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro. “With immersive gameplay, and a storyline that resonates with fans old and new, Transformers: Galactic Trials is sure to ignite excitement. Through this all-new Transformers racing experience, we continue to expand our digital offerings through strategic licensing and internal development and we can’t wait for Transformers fans to see what else we have in store.”
Transformers: Galactic Trials launches on Oct. 11 and will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam.
Tonies, the screen-free storytelling company, has released a series of new Nickelodeon figures.
The release includes the upcoming, first-ever SpongeBob SquarePants Tonie. The SpongeBob Tonie is voiced by the original SpongeBob voice actor, Tom Kenny.
There are five new Nickelodeon Tonies. | Source: Tonies
Meanwhile, PAW Patrol has two Tonies in the new release. Find the PAW Patrol Jungle Pups: Marshall Tonie and the PAW Patrol Jungle Pups: Chase Tonie. Peppa Pig turns 20 this year, so to celebrate the anniversary Tonies released the My First Album Tonie and the Learn with Peppa Tonie.
Each of the new Nickelodeon Tonies is available at Amazon, Target, and Walmart for $14.99, except the SpongeBob SquarePants Tonie, which will go on sale July 8.
Spin Master has revealed five collectibles inspired by PlayStation Studios titles such as God of War, Ghost of Tsushima, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Horizon Forbidden West. The figures are the first products that Spin Master has unveiled as a global toy licensee for Sony Interactive Entertainment.
The Shapes Collection features five figures that mirror details seen in Sony Interactive’s franchises, each serving as a physical replica of digital characters.
The the Deluxe Aloy figure comes with numerous accessories. | Source: Spin Master
The the Deluxe Aloy box features PlayStation branding. | Source: Spin Master
Collectors can pose the Deluxe Aloy figure in positions seen in the game. | Source: Spin Master
The collection includes the Deluxe Figure 6-inch Aloy, Horizon Forbidden West ($49.99), which comes with 12 different accessories such as face plates and alternative hands. The Horizon Forbidden West-inspired deluxe collector-grade figure has 42 points of articulation and is available to preorder today on Amazon, with an expected shipping date of Aug. 1.
The Varl figure features the video game character's outfit. | Source: Spin Master
The Jin Sakai figure features the character's swords. | Source: Spin Master
The Kratos figure can be displayed in various poses. | Source: Spin Master
The collection also includes God of War-themed Core Figures 6-inch Atreus and Kratos, as well as Horizon Zero Dawn Core Figure 6-inch Varl and Ghost of Tsushima Core Figure 6-inch Jin Sakai. At $29.99 each, the 6-inch figures have 31 or 32 points of articulation and come with two to four accessories. These Core Figure collectibles will be available to preorder on Amazon on July 15, with an expected shipping date of Sept. 1.
The five PlayStation Studios-inspired figures mark the start of Spin Master’s offerings as a Sony Interactive Entertainment licensee, and further products can be anticipated.
Staples Canada is expanding its kid-based presence with more than 100 new Staples Kids Learn + Play concepts in Canadian stores.
The concept is a space for learning-based play filled with a curated selection of toys and educational tools. Initially, the concept was available for customers in only eight stores, making this Staples Canada’s largest single-year expansion for the office supplies company.
The addition marks the largest single-year expansion for Staples Canada. | Source: Staples Canada
“As parents, we know that there’s always the need to keep our kids engaged and learning — especially if they’re learning through play,” says Rachel Huckle, CEO of Staples Canada. “Since introducing Staples Kids Learn + Play in eight stores last year, we’ve seen a strong customer response. We’re excited to further expand the Kids Learn + Play experience to more stores, benefitting parents, young learners, and educators alike.”
Staples Canada says the concept will be available in a total of 129 stores by the end of August. Visit the Staples Kids Learn + Play curation online to learn more about the activations.
The youngest woman on BBC’s Dragons’ Den will present the day two keynote at 2024’s Brand Licensing Europe.
Sara Davies will present at 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 25, for a fireside chat with the Global Licensing Group titled “Crafty Licensing: Transforming a business through brand licensing.” She will speak on her personal business journey, growing Crafter’s Companion into a global business.
We know how important innovation and product development are to retaining our loyal customers throughout their crafting journey as well as the role they play in reaching new pockets of customers to continually expand the business. Brand licensing has been a key tool in this strategy, and I can’t wait to share insight into our experience and meet other retailers, manufacturers, and brands at BLE in September.
Sara Davies
Crafter’s Companion is known for its variety of crafty products, including several designed especially for kidults. The company signed a multiyear deal with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products in 2023, and has developed the licensed Fan-Art Like a Pro range. In her keynote, Davies will discuss how her team developed a license-friendly range and found new opportunities. She will also announce new range of extensions and licenses for the company.
Brand Licensing Europe is an annual event in London focused on licensing and brand extension. The event welcomes more than 9,500 manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and licensing agents.
Sesame Workshop has launched a new global campaign, titled Gift of Giggles, to celebrate the positive impact of humor, joy, and laughter with Sesame Street characters. The initiative is just one movement that supports Sesame Workshop’s aim to highlight emotional well-being and mental health awareness for kids and families.
The campaign began yesterday on International Joke Day with a video of Elmo attempting to tell a well-known joke to Felix and includes a new digital series, a summer comedy tour, a new online game, new stories, and more.
Elmo and Felix joke around on International Joke Day. | Source: Sesame Workshop
In the digital series “The Giggle Group,” Elmo and others meet with toddlers and kids to discuss what makes them laugh. The videos are inspired by the interviews between a Sesame Street character and a kid, in which anything can happen and laughter often ensues. Additionally, the Gift of Giggles YouTube playlist includes several videos featuring surprise guests, including popular YouTubers and celebrities. Kids can check the playlist often for new, funny content.
A new game on sesamestreet.org,Get the Giggles, is also live. The online sound-matching game features laughs from characters like the Count, Juila, and more, and players can apply listening skills to match the giggle to the giggler. Players can choose from three levels of four, six, or even eight gigglers to match.
The campaign will last for several months. | Source: Sesame Workshop
A summer comedy tour is also included: The Muppets of Sesame Street will pop up to share jokes and laughs with families. Additionally, the movement includes new stories that encourage reading and highlight the joy of the activity. Elmo’s Favorite Jokes and Riddles — a lift-the-flap board book — is available to preorder now and supports the Gift of Giggles ideals. Parents can also add 100 Words from the Street: Words to Grow Smarter, Stronger, & Kinder, available on Oct. 3, to the bookshelf.
The Gift of Giggles initiative is a long-running campaign, so parents can look forward to more resources and laughter as the months pass. Next year, families can use the Let’s Have Some Fun storytelling cards to ignite giggles. The cards will be released on March 6.
“With its signature mix of laughter and learning, Sesame Street creates experiences that enrich minds and expand hearts around the world,” says Samantha Maltin, Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing and Brand Officer. “At a time when children need joy more than ever, the Gift of Giggles campaign will support their emotional well-being, with a healthy dose of laughter. Whether you’re learning about healthy habits, social-emotional skills, or the ABCs, humor can turn a simple moment into an unforgettable lesson.”
For more information and additional mental health resources, visit sesame.org.
Kids2 has brought on Ian Rowland as its new Executive Vice President of Global Sales. Rowland will oversee the company’s Global Sales, Consumer Marketing, and eCommerce teams, bringing his international and retail expertise to strategic alignment and expansion across all regions.
Kids2 has a strong presence in the U.S. juvenile market, with a 17% market share in eight categories, including swaddles, activity jumpers, and more. The company is known for brands such as Baby Einstein, Bright Starts, Ingenuity, and more. In his new role, Rowland will focus on expanding the company’s presence even further.
Ian’s leadership and global market expertise are the right fit for Kids2, but more importantly his passion for people and driving growth make him the perfect fit for our culture.
Ryan Gunnigle, CEO, Kids2
Prior to joining Kids2, Rowland served in leadership roles at L’Oréal, heading its Commercial Strategy organization. He also has experience working at Campbell’s and Kimberly-Clark in strategic customer and marketing leadership roles.
Kids2 has been developing infant, baby, and toddler products for more than 50 years, and sells its goods in more than 90 countries.
“Kids2 has an incredible foundation, especially talented team members, renowned brands, and parent-loved products,” says Rowland. “I’m excited to work with the team and our global partners to build on the great momentum already in place and deliver on the infinite opportunities ahead.”
Fisher-Price has new toys designed for the youngest fans of iconic brands.
With Comic-Con International San Diego (SDCC) coming later this month, it’s the perfect time for companies to release new toys featuring fan-favorite franchises. Fisher-Price has toys on the way that won’t be coming to the con, but are bringing beloved brands to the youngest fans. The Mattel subsidiary is launching Imaginext toys for kids ages 3 and up featuring Star Wars, Jurassic World, and Batman releasing this fall.
Imaginext Star Wars Darth Vader Bot ($149.99) | Source: Fisher-Price
Imaginext Star Wars R2-D2 ($79.99) | Source: Fisher-Price
Two new toys are coming to kids from a galaxy far, far away. The Star Wars Darth Vader Bot is more than 2 feet tall. Kids can place the included Stormtrooper character key on the robot’s shoulder Power Pad to turn on lights, start sounds, and open the torso, revealing a hidden disc launcher. The Darth Vader Bot is available now.
The Star Wars R2-D2 is more than 17 inches tall and features lights, sounds, and a hidden projectile launcher. Kids can place the C-3P0 character key on the Power Pad to have R2-D2 react with sounds and head-spinning. The Imaginext R2-D2 will be released this fall.
Imaginext Jurassic World Attack Mode Dilophosaurus ($79.99) | Source: Fisher-Price
Imaginext DC Super Friends Transforming Bat-Tank ($69.99) | Source: Fisher-Price
Dinosaurs and superheroes round out the new Imaginext toys. The Jurassic World Attack Mode Dilophosaurus is more than 16 inches tall and features lights, sounds, expanding frills, and a projectile-launching “spitting” action.
The DC Super Friends Transforming Bat-Tank can transform into battle mode, revealing a hidden launcher. Up to six Imaginext figures can fit in the transport truck. Both the Transforming Bat-Tank and Attack Mode Dilophosaurus will launch this fall.
SDCC runs from July 25-28 at the San Diego Convention Center, but young fans who miss the convention can still participate in fandom with their family thanks to Fisher-Price’s newest releases.
