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Chuck E. Cheese and Asmodee Debut Spot It! Summer Events

This summer, Asmodee is launching its largest location-based entertainment activation for Spot It! to date, and it’s turning to Chuck E. Cheese for help. “Entertainment” is his middle name, after all.

Starting in June, families can visit more than 500 Chuck E. Cheese fun centers throughout the U.S. and Canada to experience an immersive Spot It!-themed takeover. This collaboration integrates the beloved board game into almost every aspect of the arcade, from interactive activities and digital content to take-home crafts. The event series will run through the summer, culminating in a national sweepstakes in September.

Spot these events at more than 500 Chuck E. Cheese locations starting this June. | Source: Chuck E. Cheese

Kids can experience the beloved board game in new ways. | Source: Chuck E. Cheese

Bust a move on the Spot It!-themed dance floor. | Source: Chuck E. Cheese

Return a completed activity sheet to recieve bonus e-tickets. | Source: Chuck E. Cheese

The takeover blends physical and virtual play, reimagining how classic brands can connect with families in the digital age. For example, Spot It! gameplay segments will air on screens across the venue, challenging families to race across the floor to find matching symbols before the timer runs out. After, kids can bust a move on the interactive Spot It! Dance floor, or grab exclusive activity sheets that they can exchange for e-tickets.

Beyond the store, families can also participate in an online version of Spot It! On social media. For more information, visit Chuck E. Cheese’s Instagram or Facebook page.

Game sampling sessions will take place at select Fun Centers in September. | Source: Chuck E. Cheese

In September, families can try the original Spot It! for themselves at select Chuck E. Cheese Fun Centers with hands-on game sampling sessions, available while supplies last. Closing out the summer fun is a national sweepstakes, which families can enter to win exclusive prizes from both Chuck E. Cheese and Asmodee. More details will be available on Chuck E. Cheese’s website closer to the date.

“By bringing Spot It! into the larger-than-life experience of Chuck E. Cheese, we’re extending the way families engage with the brand beyond the tabletop and creating new opportunities for movement, laughter, and shared experiences together,” said Julien Sharp, Country Manager, U.S., Asmodee. “Both Asmodee and Chuck E. Cheese are rooted in creating moments of connection, making this collaboration a natural fit for families looking to play and interact in new ways.”

The Spot It! program will kick off this June at participating Chuck E. Cheese locations across the U.S. and Canada. For more information or to find a local restaurant, visit chuckecheese.com/spotit.

Aurora World Expands Licensed Portfolio with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Plush Collection

Aurora World is adding a new holiday license to its plush portfolio with a collection inspired by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The lineup will bring characters from the classic special to multiple plush formats, with retail shipments scheduled to begin in August ahead of the fourth-quarter holiday season.

“Partnering with a category leader like Aurora World ensures that our characters are represented with the highest standards of craftsmanship,” says Danielle Flom, director of licensing for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Character Arts.

The introductory release features 14 plush designs centered on Rudolph, Clarice, and Bumble across several of Aurora’s established product lines. The collection includes Palm Pals plush in 5-inch and 8-inch formats, and in clip-on form; Spudsters plush featuring stackable, squeezable designs; and 12-inch Classic Cuddle Plush versions of Rudolph and Clarice, designed for display and cuddling.

“Truly, there is no Christmas without Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” says Michael Kessler, executive vice president at Aurora World. “We are honored to bring these mythical, heartwarming characters into the homes of families everywhere.”

The collection arrives as the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer television special approaches its 62nd consecutive season on network TV, extending the brand into new licensed plush offerings for multigenerational fans. Products will be available beginning in August through Aurora’s website, specialty retailers, and mass retail nationwide.

The Toy Book’s May 2026 Power Rankings: Top Stories and Products

May brought the industry together at Licensing Expo and set the stage for The Toy Book’s latest issue, with big stories stretching from the show floor to the toy department.

This month’s most-read headlines packed in fresh launches, milestone celebrations, retail exclusives, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Mattel had a monster month, from Hot Wheels builds and American Girl crossovers to Barbie stamps and Disney dolls, while Sonic raced toward 35, KPop Demon Hunters hit the trading card aisle, and Plants vs. Zombies prepared to take root on Kickstarter. Check out the big items below.

The Toy Book Top 10

The most-read, clicked, and shared stories at The Toy Book last month.

Beyond the Top 10, this year’s edition of The BIG Toy Book continued drawing reads, while recent Licensing Expo news and related features on Masters of the Universe, Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu, and this year’s biggest brands gained steam toward the end of the month.

Top 10 Product Pages:

The Top 10 most-searched-for toys and games.

Click here for the full archives of previous Toy Book Top 10 features.

Want more toy industry news in your feed? Follow The Toy Book on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Threads, and Facebook.

Miniso’s YOYO Art Exhibit Brings Big Wonder to New York City

Miniso expands its presence in New York City with a public exhibition featuring its original IP, YOYO. Starting June 20, YOYO will appear as a large art installation at The Oculus at the World Trade Center.

Developed by Miniso, YOYO is a proprietary IP that celebrates themes of friendship, joy, and day-to-day experiences. This collectible brand features signature pumpkin-shaped heads and minimalist dot eyes. Each character is bursting with its own personality, offering unique collectibles for consumers worldwide.

This summer, Miniso is launching the YOYO Small Yet Significant Exhibition at one of New York’s most recognizable landmarks. This installation has 50 5-foot-tall figures and a towering 40-foot inflatable spanning classic and newly released YOYO collections. The exhibit also showcases a series of designs made in collaboration with global artists, creators, fans, and community groups.

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Beyond the art installation, consumers can see more YOYO figures and collectibles at Miniso locations. In stores, collectors will find various mystery box series, with each assortment featuring different themes and collectibles. YOYO’s most popular Surprise Icon Box series includes the Tilted Head Collection and the Cupid Ring Collection.

Consumers can view the exhibition at The Oculus at the World Trade Center from June 20 to July 18. For more information about Miniso brands and collaborations, visit miniso.com.

Pudgy Penguins and Moonbirds Partner for Vibes TCG Expansion

Birds of a feather flock together. For the latest expansion of its Vibes trading card game (TCG), Pudgy Penguins is joining forces with another set of cuddly, crypto-born cartoons — Moonbirds.

Developed by Orange Cap Games, Birb & Pengu marks the Vibes’ third and largest expansion since its launch in late 2024. The collection adds 195 new cards to the Pudgy Penguins-inspired TCG, including new characters, locations, card types, and rare chases to discover. Players add these beloved birds to their binders starting June 18.

Collect this crypto-cartoon crossover starting June 18. | Source: Orange Cap Games

Build the best flock to pass the "Vibe Check." | Source: Orange Cap Games

Shop the expansion in booster packs, booster boxes, and starter sets. | Source: Orange Cap Games

Starter sets include everything players need to build their bird binder. | Source: Orange Cap Games

Each Vibes Series 3: Birb & Pengu features 12 collectible cards, along with a code card for Vibes Online, the TCG’s digital counterpart. Cards vary in rarity, from base prints and foils to the highly coveted Sketch Cards, which feature reproductions of original concept artwork. Series 3 also introduces two new IP-specific finishes: Birb Foil, exclusive to Moonbirds characters, and Fish Foil, only available on Pudgy Penguins.

Unlike traditional, combat-based TCGs, Vibes challenges players to collect huddles of characters to catch the attention of the central character, Baron Fishpockets. The first player’s huddle to pass the “Vibe Check” and convince Fishpockets to join their group wins. Collectors can grab packs individually, bundled in 24-count booster boxes, or in all-new starter sets.

“From day one, our goal with Vibes was to build more than a trading card game: we wanted to create a collectible ecosystem where players, collectors, families, and fans could all find a place to belong,” said Spencer Gordon-Sand, Founder and CEO of Orange Cap Games. “Birb & Pengu is our biggest step forward yet, bringing new characters, new collecting experiences, and new ways for the community to connect through the game.”

Birb & Pengu will be available June 18 through mass retailers and select local game stores. For more information about the game, visit vibes.game.

Hess’s 2026 Mini Collection Celebrates America250

Hess Toy Truck returns with a new addition to its Hess Miniature Series. The 2026 Mini Collection brings historic twists as it celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with a special America250 Edition set.

This collection features four miniature vehicles inspired by Hess’s fan-favorite releases. Each collectible has high-quality detailing, working lights, and display bases. And as a patriotic touch, this edition comes in commemorative packaging for America250.

The 2026 Mini Collection honors the legacy of Hess vehicles with more than 130 lights across the set. Each replica also includes detachable bases with chrome nameplates, making each vehicle perfect for play and display. This set includes miniature versions of a tow truck, a police truck, and a dump truck with a loader.

The 2026 Mini Collection features America250 packaging details. | Source: Hess Toy Truck

The Miniature Tow Truck features a fixed-position tow arm and classic green-and-white details. | Source: Hess Toy Truck

This Police Truck features three axles, six free-rolling wheels, and 55 lights. | Source: Hess Toy Truck

This Dump Truck and Loader is a replica of the 2017 Hess vehicle. | Source: Hess Toy Truck

Inspired by the 2019 vehicle, the Miniature Tow Truck collectible features a fixed-position tow arm and classic green-and-white coloring. This truck also includes 39 lights, three axles, and six free-rolling wheels. The set’s Miniature Police Truck, inspired by the 2023 Hess Police Truck & Cruiser, brings signature detailing, three axles, six free-rolling wheels, and 55 lights. Lastly, the Miniature Dump Truck and Loader replicates the 2017 vehicle with Hess-inspired finishes, three axles, six free-rolling wheels, and 37 lights.

For more information about Hess’s Mini Collection, visit hesstoytruck.com.

2026 MINI COLLECTION — AMERICA250 EDITION

The Hess Miniature Series gets a historic twist with a limited-edition set celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. This special edition features miniature trucks honoring the American milestone and Hess’s legacy, including a tow truck, police truck, dump truck, and loader.

Product Facts

MSRP:
$39.99

Age:
3+

Manufacturer:
HESS TOY TRUCK

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HESS TOY TRUCK

LA Card Show Returns to Los Angeles Convention Center for Expanded 2026 Event

The LA Card Show (LACS) returns to the Los Angeles Convention Center June 13-14, expanding its footprint with a two-day event centered on trading cards, collectibles, gaming, and fan culture.

Following prior events at Dodger Stadium and Intuit Dome, organizers say this year’s show will be the largest yet, bringing together more than 700 vendors across sports cards, Pokémon, One Piece, gaming, memorabilia, fashion, art, and pop culture collectibles.

The event reflects continued momentum in the collectibles business as sports cards, trading card games, nostalgia-driven products, and live fan experiences increasingly intersect.

Attendees can expect autograph sessions, exclusive LACS card drops, creator streams, giveaways, music, and surprise celebrity appearances, alongside buying, selling, and trading opportunities throughout the weekend.

“Collecting is no longer niche. It’s global culture,” says Adam Derry, founder of LACS. “Sports cards, Pokémon, gaming, fashion, nostalgia, entertainment, food, community. All of these worlds now connect through fandom, and LACS has become a place where people experience that energy together in real life.”

Featured exhibitors include Legends’ Attic, Hit Parade, The UFC Card Father, and Fanatics Collect. The event will also host a pop-up from Snoop Dogg’s R&G Record Store featuring vinyl records.

Sports activations are planned with the LA Clippers, LAFC, LA Sparks, and LA Kings, alongside an inflatable soccer pitch, a FIBA basketball court, and an autograph and giveaway stage featuring LEAF Trading Cards programming.

The show will also include onsite card grading submissions through PSA, Beckett, CGC Cards, and SGC, as well as cleaning, prep, and evaluation services for collectors.

VIP 2-day pass holders will receive early access, a limited-edition event bag, a 3-card booster pack, and entry to a VIP lounge area. Additional guests, sponsors, and collaborations are expected to be announced ahead of the event.

Learn more at lacardshow.com.

Sarah McQuintiff Joins Diverse Marketing as Director of Key Account Sales

Diverse Marketing is welcoming Sarah McQuintiff to its growing executive team as the new Director of Key Account Sales.

An industry veteran with more than 20 years of experience, McQuintiff joins the team from Mattel, where she oversaw national retail accounts and initiatives for top brands like Hot Wheels, Matchbox, and Pixar’s Cars. In this new role, she will support and strengthen Diverse Marketing’s existing retail and brand partnerships, while expanding account development across the agency’s entire portfolio.

In this new role, McQuintiff will oversee Diverse Marketing’s key existing sales accounts. | Source: Diverse Marketing

“I’m incredibly excited to join the Diverse Marketing team during such a dynamic period of growth,” said McQuiniff. “Diverse has built an outstanding reputation for strong partnerships and delivering results for manufacturers and retailers. I look forward to growing key retail relationships and contributing to the sales team’s momentum.”

Prior to Mattel, McQuintiff spent seven years at GameStop, pioneering its foray into licensed collectibles, a category she helped grow into a $450 million segment of the company. With her experience in mass, specialty, and e-commerce sales strategy, and her merchandising expertise geared toward long-term brand growth, her perspective will aid Diverse Marketing as the company continues to expand.

“Sarah brings strategic thinking, retail expertise, and relationship-building to our team,” said Wes Hardin, owner of Diverse Marketing. “Her record speaks for itself. She helped create and scale GameStop’s collectibles business and led major initiatives at Mattel with top retailers. She understands the retailer mindset and what it takes to build brands for long-term success.”

To learn more, visit diversemarketing.com.

Sesame Workshop Honors Hoda Kotb and MetLife at 23rd Annual Benefit Gala

Sesame Workshop hosted its 23rd annual benefit gala May 27 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, raising $3.3 million to support the nonprofit’s educational initiatives and global mission.

Centered around the theme “People in Our Neighborhood,” this year’s event celebrated individuals and organizations supporting children and communities while reinforcing Sesame Workshop’s focus on kindness, belonging, and early learning.

Sesame Workshop honored journalist, author, and Joy 101 founder Hoda Kotb with the Joan Ganz Cooney Award, recognizing her commitment to families, kindness, and community. Ina Garten presented the award during the evening’s program.

MetLife received the Civic Leadership Award for its more than 15-year partnership with Sesame Workshop and efforts to help strengthen communities through child- and family-focused initiatives. Earlier this month, Sesame Workshop and MetLife Foundation introduced new resources designed to help children and caregivers strengthen relationships, practice cooperation, and build social-emotional skills.

“MetLife is honored to be recognized by Sesame Workshop with the Civic Leadership Award. This partnership reflects a shared belief in the power of kindness, community, and investing in people to build more confident futures. We’re proud to stand alongside Sesame Workshop in advancing this important mission,” said MetLife President and Chief Executive Officer Michel Khalaf.

Hosted by Craig Melvin of NBC’s Today, the gala featured appearances by John Oliver and a musical performance by will.i.am, with appearances from the Muppets of Sesame Street.

“Sesame Street was intentionally created as a neighborhood where everyone belongs — humans, furry monsters, an eight-foot-tall yellow bird — a decision that remains as timely, relevant, and necessary today,” said Sherrie Westin, President and CEO, Sesame Workshop. “In many ways, Sesame Street is the ultimate neighborhood, one built on kindness and caring for one another. It was such a privilege to come together to honor some exceptional people in our neighborhood who have done so much to support children and bring our mission to life.”

Proceeds from the annual benefit support Sesame Workshop’s work across education, media, research, and community outreach programs serving children and families in more than 190 countries.

PlayMonster Launches ‘Love Island’-Themed Never Have I Ever Party Game

PlayMonster is bringing the villa home with Never Have I Ever — Love Island, a party game inspired by the hit U.S. and U.K. reality series.

This edition of Never Have I Ever turns the drama of the ITV Studios global phenomenon into an easy-to-learn card game designed for 4-12 players, ages 17 and up. The game includes six paddles and 250 brand-new cards featuring exclusive Love Island content, allowing players to experience the show’s signature moments, such as bombshell arrivals, challenges, recouplings, and fire-pit chats.

Bring home the villa vibes with Never Have I Ever — Love Island. | Source: PlayMonster/The Toy Book

“Love Island has become one of the most culturally dominant franchises on television, and its fanbase is incredibly passionate and engaged,” says Ben Taylor, PlayMonster Vice President of Marketing. “Never Have I Ever — Love Island lets fans bring that same energy into their own social lives — the excitement, the laughter, and yes, the drama. We took a party game classic and infused it with all the Love Island magic to create a game that will be the life of every watch party this summer.”

Whether you’re a yearly watcher of Love Island or new to the villa, this game brings the drama and the fun, no matter your fan level.

Never Have I Ever — Love Island is available for purchase now, timed to align with the season premiere of Love Island USA and U.K., next week on June 2 and 1, respectively. Love Island USA airs daily on Peacock, while episodes of the U.K. series stream on Hulu the day after broadcast.

Visit playmonster.com to stay updated on new releases, and visit itvstudios.com for all things Love Island.

NEVER HAVE I EVER — LOVE ISLAND

A hot new card game just entered the villa. This edition includes 250 scenarios inspired by Love Island, as well as six double-sided paddles for players to respond whether or not they’ve experienced them.

Product Facts

MSRP:
$24.99

Age:
17+

Manufacturer:
PLAYMONSTER

Buy Now

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