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Welcome to Your Weekly News Brief!

Happy Bloomin’ Friday!

Can you believe summer’s almost gone? Before LA Previews took over our calendars, late August used to mean squeezing in those last bits of summer fun. Now it’s all about gearing up for a busy season ahead! I can’t wait to see everyone in just a few weeks. In the meantime, here’s a handy list of LA events courtesy of the Toy Association.

On the list is our second annual Laugh Factory event! Get your tickets right now because there is only one show and it is Rubee Tuesday - a super popular night at the Laugh Factory!  If you have questions, ask David Fuhrer, Bob Fuhrer or me.

Registration is Open for November's POP Week and WishList Weekend! 

​​Thank you for reading the Bloom Report here or on the Bloom Report 24/7 News Feed! Please support our work by advertising and/or setting up a POP profile. 

Mary and the POP Team

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Cartoon Lovers, Lexophiles & People in Need of a Smile!

Cartoon of the Week: Thank you to Robert Fuhrer for the cartoon this week!​​​

Memorable Quotes:  “For every winner, there doesn’t have to be a loser … In fact, most success stories are less about competition and more about collaboration.” - Michelle Yeoh

Toy Industry Word of Day: If you can think of a toy/game industry word not in our POPDictionary, add it and we will connect it to you POP profile, feature it here in an upcoming week and on POP's homepage! ​

Have a cartoon, quote or a joke to share? Send it to me! Mary​​​

Happiest of Birthdays to our colleagues celebrating birthdays this past week!

Tom Morey RIP
Shane Corn
Heather Edwards
Grant Lyon
Trina Robbins RIP
Eugene Hendel RIP
Reid Huefner
Joan Frances "Bam" Widmer RIP
Charlotte Towne
Laura Dattile

Gareth Edwards
Chung Liang

Person of the Week - Vango Toys' Alex Tongue

Riding the Wave of Success with the UpsideDownChallenge Game

Amassing more than half a billion views across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, thanks to the game’s hilarious (and seemingly easy) challenges, The #UpsideDownChallenge Game has continued to dominate the game aisle since its launch five years ago. Formula 1 teams, professional gymnasts and even Super Bowl LIX champions, the Philadelphia Eagles have used the iconic upside down goggles in their social content.  

The game actually launched right as the pandemic was closing down the world. And while there was a lot of uncertainty as to whether Vango would even be able to continue selling the game, it instead wound up providing just the right setting to show exactly how the game works, providing a simple, and much needed laugh with close friends and family members of all ages. As Vango Founder and CEO Alex Tongue likes to say, when the world was flipped upside down, he just gave families the upside down goggles to enjoy the view!

While COVID significantly impacted our world - and our industry - the dramatic shifts in the way consumers behaved while dealing with the pandemic did manage to produce a few success stories.

Enter The #UpsideDownChallenge Game from Vango. The party game’s premise: players perform seemingly simple tasks, like write their name, connect dots or give a high five, but all while wearing a now iconic pair of goggles that literally flips your vision upside down. The game provided exactly what families needed during this time: entertainment, laughter and the opportunity to connect with each other. Read More...

Person of the Week - Cassidy Smith: Full Speed Ahead!

On Recent Change from Hape Toys to Speedy Monkey

Hi Cassidy! Great to catch up and love to share your latest news with our readers! How long were you at Hape Toys, and what is your favorite memory from your time there?

This year would have marked 22 years at Hape! It's hard to choose just one favorite memory. Building the brand with Maggie in the early days is something I’ll always treasure.

Spending time with Peter was also incredibly impactful—his passion is truly inspiring, and I’ve learned so much from him. I also deeply value the relationships I’ve built with our customers and sales reps. The journey we shared has led to many lifelong friendships.

This is an incredible industry, and I feel grateful to be in it!

Why the change with such a great career at Hape?
Read More...

Young Inventor Challenge: 20th Anniversary Spotlight

Name: Leonard Brahin
Location: Chicago, IL
YIC: 2007 Winner
Invention(s): Superhero Board Game

Where is your invention now?
Safely preserved in my childhood home! 

Have you invented any other toys/games since the YIC?
I have designed and implemented murder mystery and trivia parties. I look back extremely fondly of my participation in the YIC and, to this day, I still share stories from the event. 

Are you planning to work or study in a related field (STEM, design, entrepreneurship, toy/game industry, etc.)?
My sister took the STEM route instead of me! I work as an attorney for a commercial law firm helping others protect their businesses and ensure that the products and services they offer are the best they can be.    READ More...

(Note from Mary:  It is the 20th Anniversary of the Young Inventor Challenge! We have BIG plans and would love to include you - be a sponsor, a judge or a volunteer. We appreciate all the help we can get to support the next generation of toy people! Contact Ahren Hoffman ahren@peopleofplay.com today.)

Financial, Legal and Tariffs

South Korean Supreme Court dismisses US composer's 'Baby Shark' copyright claim

South Korea’s Supreme Court has rejected a 30 million won damage claim by an American composer who accused a South Korean kids content company of plagiarizing his version of “Baby Shark.”

Big Potato has secured investment worth £16.2m from private investment firm Mobeus to help fund the company’s future development

According to a report in The Times, two-thirds of Big Potato’s revenue comes from exp  orts, with the US accounting for the majority of those sales. 

PBS is slashing its budget in response to Trump’s attack on public media Now that Congress has passed a bill that will defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, PBS is taking drastic measures to stay alive.
Diamond Debtors Estate in 'Administrative Insolvency Jeopardy'

Diamond Comic Distributors is in danger of administrative insolvency, and its records are in disarray, according to statements in an August 5 court hearing in the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, for which a transcript was filed on August 15.

Image Settles with Diamond on Consignment Inventory

The hearing on the numerous motions and objections related to Diamond's plan to seize and sell consignment inventory in its warehouse began on Monday based on a plan created in a scheduling conference on August 5.

Federal Lawsuit Challenges Oregon’s EPR Law

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) has filed a lawsuit in federal court challenging Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act, which established the state’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for packaging.

Financial Reporting, Tariffs

Sari Wiaz, owner of Baby Paper, which makes paper-like toys, said the tariffs on her products imported from China had been “devastating.”

Her costs are up 25 percent, and the uncertainty is making it hard to plan for the future. Ms. Wiaz, 67, noted a stark contrast to the support that communities and the government had provided to small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period that also...

Trump trade war with China is starting to look like a partnership

As Washington and Beijing negotiate, US and Taiwan chip giants are paying the price via export tax, a potential state takeover and tariffs.

Labubu phenomenon drives Pop Mart’s record interim sales, earnings

Revenue outside China and Taiwan jumped to US$778 million in the first six months, making up about 40 per cent of total sales.

Tariffs. Who Really Pays.

The U.S. middle class is more than a household income bracket. The American middle class has always been the heartbeat of the U.S. economy.

Divided Fed worried about tariffs, inflation and the labor market, minutes show

Fed officials worried at their July meeting about the state of the labor market and inflation, though most agreed it was too soon to cut rates, minutes showed.

WH Smith shares tumble 42% after accounting blunder

The mistake was because of an issue in how it calculated the amount of supplier income it received essentially causing it to be logged too early.

New CMON profit warning says losses could reach $8m for first half of 2025 – almost three times its overall profit from the last ten years -

CMON was already reeling from a more than $3m loss last year, with falling sales for its crowdfunding campaigns leading the company to its lowest annual revenue since pandemic-hit 2020.

Cracker Barrel shares plummet after pushback on new logo, brand refresh

Shares of Cracker Barrel plunged roughly 10% on Thursday after the restaurant unveiled its new logo earlier this week as part of a larger brand refresh.

Stories, Comments, and Advice

How Life-Size Cows Made of Butter Became an Iconic Symbol of the Midwest

The Iowa State Fair has featured a bovine butter sculpture for more than 100 years. Now, the tradition is part of the new “State Fairs” exhibition at the Renwick Gallery.

The Disruption Report: Chicken Little is Loose

It’s a predictable as the sunrise. Whenever a new technology enters the toy industry, you can count on a cadre of adults bemoaning its corrosive influence on children and childhood.

How to Turn Your Toy Business Milestone into a Marketing Opportunity

Milestones are more than markers, they’re memory engines. Whether you’ve hit your 10th store anniversary, sold your 5,000th plush dragon, or released a new line of STEM kits, that moment is power waiting to be activated.

When toy companies and retailers work hand-in-hand, the result can be more than just a successful product launch—it can be a revenue-driving, brand-building phenomenon

Few examples illustrate this better than Hot Wheels, which has mastered the art of collaboration to create lasting value for both sides of the retail equation.

History and Nostalgia

Video Game History Foundation Acquires Seminal Gaming Publication

Founded by sisters Marylou Badeaux and Celeste Dolan, the monthly magazine ran from 1982 to 1990. It originally launched as The Video Game Update, a single-page black-and-white newsletter supporting their Los Angeles-based mail-order business, Video Take-Out.

Vintage Toy Restoration – Gatchaman G-1 Aircraft from Grip

Science Ninja Team Gatchaman was a Japanese anime series that debuted in 1972. In 1978, the series was reimagined for American audiences as Battle of the Planets.

Pull-A-Long Lacing Shoe from Fisher-Price (1970)

Released by Fisher-Price in 1970, the Pull-A-Long Lacing Shoe was an educational toy designed to help preschoolers learn how to tie a shoe and recognize basic shapes.

Tiltin’ Milton from Ideal (1968)

Released by Ideal in 1968, Tiltin’ Milton was a balancing game for two or more players that challenged them to outwit gravity. At the center of the action was Milton, a dozing figure nestled in a hammock.

Licensing and Entertainment

MGA Entertainment (MGA) has announced the launch of an all-new line of L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Minions Tots.

Emphasising the brand’s commitment to expanding its collection of licensed partnerships embedded in pop culture, this collection – made in collaboration...

Mattel and Playmobil have announced the next chapter in their global licensing partnership: Barbie is joining the Playmobil universe

The announcement marks the next milestone in the collaboration between the two companies, following the reveal of a Monster High product line earlier this year...

Nex, maker of Nex Playground, the active play system that gets families moving year-round, in collaboration with Zumba®,

the global dance-fitness phenomenon, today launched Zumba Fitness Party–a first-of-its-kind family-friendly fitness experience...

Amazon’s Fallout season two heads to New Vegas

Lucy (Ella Purnell), the Ghoul (Walton Goggins), and Maximus (Aaron Moten) return as a trio of Wasteland Wanderers whose adventures will bring them to the post-apocalyptic playground of New Vegas.

Riverdale gets reboot from Spider-Verse team as Archie comics struggle

According to The Wrap, Phil Lord and Chris Miller will produce a new movie based on Archie Comics, written by none other DC Comics stalwart Tom King.

Asmodee unveils Dobble: Quest For The One Ring

Perfect for fans of all things Middle-earth, the all new Dobble: Quest For The One Ring is a "precious" new addition to Asmodee's licensed Dobble line-up. 

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products Previews Brand Licensing Europe Plans

Following the success of this year’s Superman, the company is looking to bring more projects to DC Studios. Upcoming releases from DC Studios include Supergirl, Clayface, and the live-action TV series Lanterns, all set to arrive next year.

Kartoon Studios Expands Stan Lee’s Legacy with High-Value Partnerships

To unlock shareholder value through IP monetization, Kartoon Studios will continue leveraging the Stan Lee IP’s existing Marvel film and Walt Disney Company theme park licenses alongside its new series of partnerships.

The Colorverse Adventures Continue with ‘Crayola Crew’ Season 2

In Season 2 of Crayola Crew, kids will watch Bria and Rafa return to their world in Colorverse, now bursting with new vibrant characters and storylines.

DEALS: Looney Tunes shorts find a new home on Tubi

After Warner Bros. Discovery removed hundreds of classic Looney Tunes episodes from HBO Max in March, Tubi has picked up a package of more than 700 for its streaming library in the US.

YouTube and Screen Australia serve up funding for The Vegetable Plot

This musical animated series will get a piece of US$311,000 from this year's Skip Ahead program.

Surge Brands Expands Mister Softee with Licensing Partners

Surge Brands has unveiled the first slate of U.S. licensing partners for Mister Softee, signaling the start of a broad lifestyle program designed to bring the iconic ice cream truck brand into new consumer categories.

McDonald’s to Add TinyTAN Treats to Happy Meals This Fall

McDonald’s and BTS are at it again. After the success of their previous partnerships, the K-pop group is starring in a new batch of Happy Meal toys, experiences, and activations.

KPop Demon Hunters breaks into Nielsen’s streaming top 10

This summer's breakout animated hit helped drive a bump for Netflix in July’s The Gauge report—in a month that saw higher streaming viewership than ever.

Spin Master Greenlights Animated Film Directed by David Soren

This is the first original film by Spin Master’s entertainment studio, signifying a major milestone for the company behind some of the world’s most popular kids’ television series.

Masterpiece Shin Godzilla gets a black-and-white U.S. re-release

Fresh off a triumphant return to theaters in 4K, one of the best Godzilla movies of the century is circling back for another attack. Shin Godzilla will play in select cinemas once again on Aug. 31.

Kartoon Studios invests in a series that teaches kids about Bitcoin

Bitcoin Brigade: Adventures in Satoshi City (pictured) is a 2D-animated adventure concept that focuses on a group of super-powered kids who hunt for treasure.

It’s official: The Duffer brothers are leaving Netflix for Paramount

They’ll be under Paramount’s umbrella starting in April, when their current deal with Netflix is set to expire—but the Duffer brothers plan to remain involved in some ongoing projects for the streamer, such as Stranger Things: Tales of ’85.

Paris Hilton’s Animated Kids’ Series ‘Paris & Pups’ Gets YouTube Premiere Date; Trailer

Inspired by Hilton and her real-life pets, Paris & Pups is produced by HappyNest Entertainment and 9 Story Media Group, in partnership with Paris Hilton’s next-gen media company 11:11 Media.

Streaming Keeps Surging In July, With YouTube, Netflix And Roku Channel Hitting New Nielsen Highs

Streaming continued to break records in July, accounting for 47.3% of all viewing, according to Nielsen, as Netflix, YouTube and Roku hit new highs.

WildBrain CPLG Expands Global Licensing for Fuzzballs

WildBrain CPLG has announced a new global representation agreement with Kyandii Ltd to lead the licensing program for Fuzzballs, the fan-favorite pop culture brand created by Marc Sach.

The Oldest Sci-Fi Show Isn’t In As Much Trouble As You Thought

BBC Chief Content Officer Kate Phillips reassured fans that, “With or without Disney, Doctor Who will still be on the BBC … The TARDIS is going nowhere.”

Toho International and The Op Games Bring the King of the Monsters to the Board with CLUE®: Godzilla

A Monstrous Twist on the Classic Mystery Game That Will Have Fans Racing to Solve the Case! Get ready for an earth-shaking monster mystery game when CLUE®: Godzilla hits retailers on September 24, 2025, from Toho International in partnership with The Op Games.

People of Play

ICV2 INTERVIEW: TYCOON GAMES CEO DAN YARRINGTON

On Acquisitions and the Strategy for Making Them More Successful

Minneapolis-based Target said CEO Brian Cornell, who has led the company for 11 years, would step down on Feb. 1.

The board of directors chose Chief Operating Officer Michael Fiddelke, a 20-year Target veteran, to succeed him.

Target Promotes Longtime Executive Michael Fiddelke to CEO

Michael Fiddelke, Target’s chief operating officer and former finance chief, will take the chief executive role starting Feb. 1 of next year, the retailer announced Wednesday (Aug. 20).

Target CEO Brian Cornell to exit

The executive shaped the mass retailer’s reputation and performance for over a decade.

Thomas Randrup joins Staedtler UK as new MD

Thomas will lead Staedtler UK's operations, driving forward the company’s commercial strategy, market positioning and customer engagement.

Mark Rober blasts off with Netflix

The STEM-focused viral creator will partner with the streamer to make a kid-friendly competition series.

PEOPLE: Dana Tafoya-Cameron to head up Bento Box

Previously serving as head of production, Tafoya-Cameron will now oversee the studio’s creative strategy and a growing project slate that includes teen animated series Bob’s Burgers, Hazbin Hotel and Duncanville.

The Toy Association™ Welcomes Lindsey Hueer, Esq. to Manage State Government Affairs

In her role, Hueer will serve under the Association’s Government Affairs Center of Excellence and will be responsible for monitoring legislative activity, tracking and analyzing regulatory proposals, engaging with policymakers, and supporting advocacy efforts across the western states.

From Turtles to Titans: Howard Chang Launches Biblical Collectibles Line on Kickstarter

Renowned for his work on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toys in the ’80s and ’90s, Chang is back in the game with a new series of sci-fi collectibles inspired by timeless tales from the Bible.

Associations, Foundations, Shows, Awards, Events, and Festivals

The Moomins’ 80th birthday draws fans across Europe for special event

Fans flocked to Tampere in southern Finland to celebrate the country’s most lovable literary cartoon family, created by author Tove Jansson.

'It is not our aim to grow, grow, grow:' Gamescom touts record exhibitors but organizers says quality is better than quantity

'We don't want the atmosphere to be worse because we squeeze in too many people.'

The Big Christmas Press Show 2025 spotlights UK toy brands

The UK’s leading toy brands will come together on 10th September 2025 at the Business Design Centre in London for The Big Christmas Press Show, a dedicated media showcase giving journalists, broadcasters and content creators a first look at the products set to top Christmas wishlists.

Licensing International and IAAPA Unite the Licensing and Attractions Industries

Through this partnership, both entities will aim to enhance members’ experiences by offering new educational opportunities, cross-promoting key events and content, and highlighting leaders’ contributions in both the licensing and attractions industries.

Agenda Announced for Licensing Summit During Toy Association’s LA Fall Preview®

The summit will provide the toy community with timely insights on consumer trends, brand strategies, and retail growth.

Pokémon World Championships Deliver Battles and Big Reveals

As new World Champions rose in Anaheim, fans got major news across Pokémon titles, plus a glimpse at the future of competition.

Kids India 2025 offers meeting place for global toy industry

Taking place in Mumbai, Kids India is part of the world’s largest event network for the toy industry, which also includes Spiel in Essen and the Spielwarenmesse in Nuremberg.

Etopia announces date change for Amazon Play to Win event

Etopia's half-day strategy event will now take place on Thursday 18th September, with the full agenda officially revealed.

Oh Biscuits! Barnes & Noble Invites Families to Build a LEGO Bluey Duck Cake

This weekend, Barnes & Noble is hosting an exclusive, free in-store event, where little builders ages 4 and up can build their own LEGO Bluey Duck Cake, for real life. Barnes & Noble locations in Alabama, California, Arizona, North Carolina, Texas, and more will participate.

Design News: Pop Toy Show 2025, Xiaomi’s washer-dryer, Starbucks’ second Mofusand collection

Chinese collectibles-maker Pop Mart’s Pop Toy Show Singapore 2025 is back for its third edition from Aug 22 to 24.

You’re Invited: Celebrate the Grand Opening of The Toy Building in LA!

The Toy Association™ is inviting all toy industry professionals to attend the official Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of The Toy Building, taking place at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 8 at 101 Continental Boulevard in El Segundo.

Final Call for Speakers: Toy Fair® University Applications Due August 22

Industry thought leaders have until this Friday, August 22 to submit presentation applications for Toy Fair® University, taking place throughout Toy Fair from February 14 to 17, 2026 at the Javits Center in New York City.

Don’t Miss Toy Association’s Member Forum During LA Fall Preview®

The Toy Association™ will host a Member Forum at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9 at the Toy Building (101 Continental Boulevard) during the LA Fall Preview®.

Top 3 Reasons to Exhibit at the Chicago Toy & Game Fair

Unlike any other toy industry event, the Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG) brings kids, parents, inventors, and the media together during peak holiday season excitement to discover the toys and games that belong on every wishlist.

Barbie: The Dream Experience to open in Amsterdam

The immersive Barbie experience will journey through the history of the world’s most iconic doll, featuring life-size playsets, an exclusive merchandising store and a themed café.

Millimages Celebrates 10 Years of Molang at Brand Licensing Europe

The studio’s booth at BLE will emphasize the retail segment, showcasing a range of licensed products that have helped the brand connect with audiences worldwide.

Companies and Brands

Revell’s former “easy-click” assortment of plastic model kits will re-launch this month

as Click System, with a refresh of the line-up welcoming new additions and offering an improved end-user experience. The main ethos remains unchanged.

What began as a simple “Hey You, Be You” digital moment has blossomed into a global movement of pink-powered positivity, as Pembe the Pink Cat

– the pastel feline spreading affirmations and emotional uplift across the internet – evolves from viral sensation to fast-growing international brand.

Airfix releases new schemes for Heinkel He111 H-6

Ranked at a skill level three, the 1:72 scale Heinkel He111 H-6 kit consists of 180 parts, measuring in at 312mm in wingspan and 226mm in length. The twin engine Heinkel He111 H-6 from Hornby Airfix is now in stock.

Wilton Bradley launches new Toyrific website

The refreshed online platform offers customers a seamless shopping experience and showcases Wilton Bradley’s diverse portfolio, including Toyrific, Mi-Mic, Yello, Xootz and Osprey.

WeCool Toys unveils new display at Toys R Us Abu Dhabi

The new retail display showcases WeCool’s most popular lines, with vibrant signage, illuminated branding elements and a dedicated attendant positioned within the setup.

Brainstorm launches four new interactive Science Kits

Available now, the new science activity kits will be backed with PR and influencer campaigns throughout Q4 to drive traffic to retailers.

Simba Smoby debuts premium Majorette Collection Series

The new Majorette range of 1:64 diecast vehicles combines iconic automotive design with high-end detailing, standout packaging and display features.

Pop Mart's Global Expansion: From Toys to Empires

In a strategic move to broaden its global reach, Pop Mart is exploring expansion into emerging markets including the Middle East, Central Europe, and Central and South America.

Claire’s Sells ‘Significant Number’ of Stores to PE Outfit

Under this agreement, Claire’s says it has halted liquidation at a “significant number” of its stores, though that process will continue at other locations in North America.

Mattel Reveals Fisher-Price Little People Collector Backstreet Boys Set

To celebrate 25 years of the Millennium album, the Fisher-Price Little People Collector Backstreet Boys includes figures of AJ, Brian, Howie, Kevin, and Nick.

Walmart Realm adds new digital storefronts to woo Gen Z, Gen Alpha

The retailer is starting with a K-pop era theme, followed by Lo-Fi Playing, Rodeo Dreams, Nature Breaks, and Group Woosah.

Chuck E. Cheese Unveils Clawcade-Powered Chuck’s Arcade at Brea Mall

Claw machines take center stage at the 3,600-square-foot arcade, with nearly half the floor dedicated to these skill-based prize machines. Each claw machine is stocked with exclusive, high-demand items from DC Comics, Hello Kitty, Nintendo and more.

@Hasbro Reveals #MarvelLegends Maximum Series #Deadpool Figure!

The next epic figure in the Marvel Legends Maximum Series line is here - with an impressive 24 accessories, including an alternate head, several variations of alternate hands, knife, 2 swords, blaster, and blast effects.

The LEGO Group Announces the Launch of the LEGO® Ideas Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory Classic Movie Set

This intricate model brings the candy-filled wonderland from the iconic 1971 film to life, designed as both a stunning display piece and an interactive build experience for nostalgic fans.

Gaming: Digital, Video, Hardware, and Development

Microsoft hints at “more affordable” Xbox Cloud Gaming plan

Two years ago we learned, thanks to the FTC, that Microsoft was working on a separate “dedicated” version of Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Christian Whitehead shows off Sonic Mania 2 prototype images

Many were hoping for a follow up to the excellent Sonic Mania but it never came to be and the team went on to release Penny’s Big Breakaway, which sadly failed to set the world alight.

Former Ubisoft employee says company scrapped a Rayman project in 2021

The game had several titles such as Rayman Forever and The Story of Rayman. Sadly, Ubisoft decided to abandon the project in 2021.

Nintendo set to have the largest booth at PAX West this year

It is not long until PAX West as the event is due to kick off on Friday, 29th August and it is sure to be jam packed with exhibitors.

Kirby Air Riders coming 20th November

Masahiro Sakurai announced during the content-packed Kirby Air Riders-themed Nintendo Direct that fans will be able to get their hands on Kirby Air Riders on 20th November.

Tales of Xillia Remastered confirmed for October

You can get your hands on the epic adventure on 31st October. Check out some of the new quality of life adjustments which accompany the remaster in the trailer.

Bubsy 4D announced for Switch and Switch 2

Developed by Fabraz and published by Atari, the successor to one of the most infamous video games of the 90s (Bubsy 3D) will launch for both Switch and Switch 2 “soon,” though an exact release date has not yet be shared.

Pac-Man announced as DLC for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

The iconic Bandai Namco-owned character and an inspired track will be released in “early 2026” as part of the Season Pass DLC included with the Digital Deluxe Edition of the game, as well as available for purchase separately.

The next LEGO game is Batman coming to Nintendo Switch 2

If you’ve been wondering what’s next for the LEGO team and TT Games, then wonder no more. The game is titled LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight and it’s coming to the Nintendo Switch 2.

Indiana Jones will come to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026

The game is currently available on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. The Nintendo Switch 2 will also receive the DLC, which is titled The Order of Giants.

Cult of the Lamb “Woolhaven” DLC expansion coming 2026

The massive content expansion, which will be accessible near completion of the base game, is being released “early 2026” for Nintendo Switch.

Mattel Partners with Gambit Gaming for Masters of the Universe Digital Card Game 

Launching later this year, Battle for Eternia is a strategic collectible card game that brings the action-packed battles of the franchise into a new arena.

All the news from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025

While it didn’t feature much of Silksong outside of a brief tease, the main event for Gamescom, Opening Night Live, did have plenty to show off during its two hour runtime.

Sony is raising PS5 prices, starting tomorrow

In a blog post announcing the change, Sony cited the “challenging economic environment,” which includes the tariffs President Trump has placed on imported products.

The game studio building a new BioShock just had mass layoffs

Take-Two is laying off more than 80 people at Cloud Chamber, which has been working on a new BioShock title, and the game has been delayed from a planned launch in late 2026 or early 2027.

Microsoft says new Xbox will have 'AI-powered features'

The company is working with AMD to design dedicated silicon and hardware and investing in technologies like neural rendering to bring "a new level of quality" to games.

Joker to be playable for 24 hours in the Sonic Racing CrossWorlds Open Network Test

The Sonic Racing CrossWorlds open network test is available on all platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, so it will be the perfect chance to test drive the new racing game.

It’s official: Hollow Knight Silksong drops in two weeks

The long-awaited follow-up to Hollow Knight has been the subject of discussion, controversy, and disappointment for years, plagued by delays and missed deadlines. 

Mattel and Limited Run Games Unleash Retro-Inspired Video Game

The action-packed 2D game, developed with game development studio Bitmap Bureau, debuts in 2026, with both physical preorders and digital editions arriving early next year.

The Smurfs Star in SKIDOS’ Latest Learning Mobile Game

Perfect for kids ages 3 and up, Smurfs Playhouse allows little learners to explore, imagine, and create their own stories alongside the classic characters.

‘Raid: Shadow Legends’ Launches In-Game Crossover With ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ (EXCLUSIVE)

During the crossover event, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” characters Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello and Raphael will be available in-game as Legendary Champions, along with their ally April O’Neil and nemesis Shredder.

Highlighted Press Releases

($100/week/press release in this highlighted section and on newsletter sent Friday)​

MASTER TOYS CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL SUMMER SHOWS AND NEW STRATEGIC HIRE

Vernon, CA (August 19, 2025) –  While celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Master Toys is riding a high after the summer trade shows, capping off with being a top vendor at the Atlanta Market in the Diverse Marketing showroom. Read this as a PDF MASTER TOYS CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL SUMMER SHOWS AND NEW STRATEGIC HIREHeading into the fall and holiday season, Master Toys is happy to announce that Joy Villavicencio is joining the business as Sales Director. Since she had been a Key Account Manager at Diverse  Marketing...

WHAT’S BETTER THAN A DIY POP-UP BOOK? ENGINEERING A POP-IN BOOK WITH EYECONNECT CRAFTS

Craft, Create & Animate?! The DIY Books put the A in STEAM  Harrisburg, PA (August 18, 2025) — When kids immerse themselves in books, they are transported to all kinds of possibilities. Imagine if they had to make the book! EyeConnect Crafts offers them the chance to be an artist, an illustrator, an author or even a cartoonist when they engage with these new and unique book making kits! Youngsters discover all the elements of STEAM by making 3D Tunnel Books. Deluxe ($39.97) 3D Tunnel Book art and craft kits boast themes of Space, Ocean and Pond.

Safety and Regulatory

The CPSC Issues Safety Warning About Fake Labubu Plush Dolls

Fake Labubu dolls, commonly known as Lafufu, pose a serious risk of choking as small plush and keychain figures can easily block airways.

RIP - Rest in Play - Remembering Those that have Passed

If you know of a colleague's passing, please send us information so we may share with our readers.

(from Robert Pasin) My dad, Mario, passed away peacefully this week at the age of 95.

My mom, his wife of 66 years, was by his side. My dad was the CEO of Radio Flyer from the 1960’s into the 1990’s. He took over leadership of the company from his dad, Antonio, who founded Radio Flyer in 1917.

Terence Stamp

The English actor who played the arch-villain General Zod in the original Superman films, has died at the age of 87.

Dennis Schiefer

Schiefer was a producer on the Destroy All Humans! remakes, and worked at Black Forest for seven years.

Worldwide Magazines Weekly Top Stories

Some Added Friday Morning Chicago Time. Check Back for Complete Lists.

Toy Trade Monthly & Special Issues​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Adventure Media & Events (US)​

​Toyworld (UK)

Licensing.biz Powered by Toyworld

  1. Lamine Yamal and Erling Haaland Funko Pop! collectibles take to the pitch
  2. Barbie joins the Playmobil world
  3. Asmodee unveils Dobble: Quest For The One Ring
  4. Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight set for 2026 release
  5. Mattel details new animated content slate
  6. Spin Master announces first ever original animated film
  7. Revell outlines upcoming Click System model kit launches
  8. The British Museum returns to Brand Licensing Europe
  9. Mattel and Limited Run Games announce new retro-inspired game
  10. AliLeo Media signs distribution deal for Sunwoo & Company’s new IP Supertron

ICv2: The Business of Geek Culture (US) 

​​- Horror Week 2025: 'The Witcher: Path of Destiny' on its Way
Horror Week 2025: Celebrate Halloween with New 'Magic: The Gathering' Commander Event
'Dungeons & Kittens Starter Set' Heads to Retail
Days of Wonder to Refresh 'Memoir '44'
'Magic: The Gathering - Festival in a Box' for 'MagicCon: Atlanta' Incoming
Horror Week 2025: Building a Halloween 'Magic: The Gathering' Cube
Avalon Hill Offers 'Talisman Nemesis: Call of the Hunt' Expansion
Bo Jackson's Radioactive Hot Dogs Power Up with Ken Griffey Jr.
ICv2 Interview: Tycoon Games CEO Dan Yarrington
Ares Games Will Release 'Wunderwaffen'

 

Nación Juguetes (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Chile & Spain)​​

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Global Toy News​​​

 

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The Bugg Report (Australia)​​


The Toy Universe (Australia)

 

 

​The Toy Universe Magazine Edition 17​
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hobbyDB

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BoardGameWire​​​

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Toy Store (Italy)

Video of the Week!

ARCO - Official Teaser Trailer

POP Classifieds - Free and Easy

"I kept an eye on People of Play's Classifieds and now I work at TOMY!" -Jeff Hersheway, Digital Content Manager at TOMY International

Either post your job openings yourself (so easy!) to our POP Classifieds or send them to us to post for you. We all have colleagues looking now that would benefit.

You can also post IP and more to sell. We just posted a listing for US Utility Patent & Trademark: MOGO.

If you are looking for someone with particular skills and expertise, use POP's Advanced Search to fine that person or company you need!  

If you are not in the POP Directory, the largest searchable directory by skill, expertise and more, sign up!

Get Listed in the POP Toy Industry Database

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"I highly recommend that if anyone in this industry wants to be found, they join POP and fill out the skills and expertise section of their POP Profiles. I've had companies and a major media network reach out to me for a show based on my skills and expertise."
David Yakos, Founder of Streamline Design and Owner of Salient Technologies

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