In 2021, cryptocurrency hit the mainstream. Major global brands began appearing on the blockchain as digital assets, and NFTs became a household name. Projects like NBA Top Shot, Bored Ape Yacht Club, and CryptoPunks quickly dominated the space, generating tens of billions in sales.

It all happened at lightning speed. Practically overnight, early adopters seemed to be making unimaginable fortunes, while others on the sidelines were left wondering if they’d missed their chance.

My brother Alex and I had been dabbling in crypto since 2017, experimenting with investments in Bitcoin and Ethereum. But by 2021, the opportunity in the space was undeniable. As third generation toy industry offspring, we had strong relationships with some of the industry’s key players. We had been working with Nextoy (our father, Bob Fuhrer's company) on traditional toys and games licensing opportunities, so when we saw these digital brands exploding, we knew we could help bridge the gap between the blockchain and the physical world with merchandising.

Alex and I are now leading Nextoy Digital, and exploring new media and Web3 opportunities. Our latest venture is an exciting collaboration between Rubik’s Cube, one of the most iconic toys ever, and Doodles, the creative force behind the animated special “Dullsville and the Doodleverse.”

This partnership with Doodles and Spin Master is all about celebrating Rubik’s Cube’s 50th anniversary by offering fans something truly unique: a digital collectible, a digital comic, and a series of digital shorts inspired by the Rubik’s puzzle.

For the past three years, we have been working with Rubik’s Cube, and have been waiting for the right moment to dive into a Web3 project. We wanted to create something impactful and memorable, something that really resonates with the Web3 communities out there. Partnering with Doodles felt like the perfect way to do that.

This Doodles and Spin Master experience lets fans unlock both physical and digital collectibles. Every pack contains limited-edition items that can be redeemed for one of three Doodles x Rubik’s Cube toys—or the ultimate prize: a one-of-a-kind diamond-encrusted Rubik’s Cube designed by Eliantte & Co. Plus, every pack comes with a Rubik’s Cube-themed digital wearable that you can use to style your Doodles avatars in the Stoodio.

To top it off, Doodles will be releasing a Rubik’s-themed digital comic that introduces the Doodles x Rubik’s Cube experience. You’ll get to see Hap and Mello, characters from the “Dullsville and the Doodleverse” animated special, in action. And there’s more—a series of digital shorts that blend the Rubik’s Cube with Doodles’ signature pastel animation style.

If you want to learn more, feel free to reach out to me at Sam@nextoy.com or visit Nextoy Digital.

 

Sam Fuhrer
C:  (914) 649-8706