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It’s one of the biggest kids’ media franchises in the world, and the second-largest video game IP of all time. MCV catches up with the best pocket monster merch
For almost two decades, millions of budding Pokmon trainers have set out on their adventures to catch, train, battle and evolve the collectable creatures.
The Pokmon video game franchise is the second-most successful IP of all time, tailing behind fellow Nintendo staple Mario. More than 260 million Pokmon games have been sold worldwide as of 2014, with last year’s releases, X and Y, selling almost 12 million units in their first four months on sale.
This success is set to return to the 3DS this year, with pre-release hype (and orders) for Pokmon Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby – remakes of 2003’s Ruby and Sapphire for the Game Boy Advance – already outpacing that of X and Y.
Pokmon Ruby and Sapphire remakes have always been a popular request from fans,” says Vanisha Kavia, product manager at Nintendo.
Of course, it’s not just the Pokmon games that continue to excite fans.
The collectable Pokmon Trading Card Game (TCG) has shipped more than 21.5 billion cards to retail, while the animated Pokmon TV series has broadcast more than 800 episodes – backed up by 17 full-length feature films.
The Pokmon franchise has been around for over 18 years and the games have a strong fan base,” comments Kavia.
Keeping the franchise growing and feeling fresh at each stage is one of our key objectives. In line with this, there are many pillars to the brand aside from the games that are of growing importance, such as the TV series, merchandise and TCG cards, which help to keep the franchise relevant amongst a younger audience.”
This breadth of merchandise is being utilised for the launch of Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, with figurines, SteelBooks, in-game content and even special transparent 2DS bundles launching alongside the new titles.
With such a considerable legacy and massive range of media, there’s plenty for retailers to pick-and-choose from.
Pokmon X and Y Day Trip Essentials Kit
For Pok trainers playing on 3DS, 3DS XL, DSi or DSi XL, this five-in-one pack offers a console case (which also has space for four game cards), two game card cases and two styluses, all branded with artwork from the massively popular Pokmon X and Y titles.
SRP: 19.99
Manufacturer: PowerA
Distributor: ILT Distribution
Contact: 0845 519 7053
Pokmon Omega Ruby And Alpha Sapphire- The Official Strategy Guide
Even the greatest Pokmon masters need some advice every now and then. This helpful paperback features a complete walkthrough of all of the Gym Badges and new game features in Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, as well as a guide to all of the hidden items and special Pokmon.
SRP: 14.99
Manufacturer: Prima Games
Distributor: Exertis
Contact: 01279 822 822
Pokmon TCG PhantomForces Theme Deck
The latest expansion to the Pokmon Trading Card Game, this deck includes 60 cards.
SRP: 10.95
Manufacturer: The Pokmon Company
Distributor: Esdevium
Contact: 01420 593 593
Transforming Pok Ball – Tepig
Fans can pretend they’ve caught their very own Tepig with this transforming plushie. (We don’t know what a Tepig is, either.)
SRP: 3.40
Manufacturer: Tomy
Distributor: Tomy
Contact: 01271 336 155
Pok Ball Console and Games Case
Pok trainers on the go can carry their console and game cards using this generous storage bag.
SRP: 19.99
Manufacturer: PowerA
Distributor: ILT Distribution
Contact: 0845 519 7053
RC Training Pikachu Figure
Electric mouse fans can scoot their own Pikachu around and terrify cats with this remote-controlled figure.
SRP: 6.99
Manufacturer: Tomy
Distributor: Tomy
Contact: 01271 336 155
Retractable 3DS Stylus Pack
There’s little more annoying as a 3DS owner than finding yourself without a stylus. Make sure players avoid the bother with this triple-pack.
SRP: 5.99
Manufacturer: Venom
Distributor: Venom
Contact: 01763 284 181
Pokmon Annual 2015
A new generation of Pokmon means a lot of new names to learn. Help Pok collectors out with this book filled with games and info.
SRP: 7.99
Manufacturer: Pedigree
Distributor: Pedigree
Contact: 01392 427 799
