Pudgy Penguins renowned for Pudgy Toys has launched the newly licensed Lil Pudgys in Target stores across the United States. This is yet another milestone for Pudgy Penguins as this is its second launch of Pudgy Toys, which are part of an online gaming experience powered by the zkSync blockchain, – now a popular physical collectible toy.
Pudgy Toys is a line of plushies, figurines, and collectibles inspired by the online game. It was initially launched in May 2023 on e-commerce platforms and became a No. 1 seller on Amazon, and won Toy Insider’s Top Summer Toy of 2023. The toy made its debut in Walmart in September 2023, and now Target.
Luca Netz, CEO of Pudgy Penguins, said they are thrilled to announce the launch of Pudgy Toys in Target stores nationwide, marking another significant stride to redefine mainstream consumer experiences with Web3 technology.“This expansion into Target, a leader in retail innovation, signifies more than just growth; it underscores our drive to widen the Pudgy Penguins community, attracting a diverse new audience to our IP,” he said.
“By integrating our unique digital NFT elements with physical toys, we’re not just capturing the hearts of a wider audience; we’re also pioneering a new era where blockchain technology meets every day consumer interaction. This launch with Target represents not just a milestone for Pudgy Penguins but a leap forward for the entire Web3 community, showcasing the endless potential of NFTs in the consumer retail market.”
The toy comes with a QR code that unlocks traits and collectibles inside of the newly updated version of Pudgy World on online, open-world game that is powered by zkSync, where players can customize penguin characters, complete story-driven quests, and more. It offers an additional layer of engagement and enhances the customer experience, and fosters a community around the Pudgy Penguins brand.
The existing and upcoming Pudgy Toys are connected to existing pieces of IP. NFT holders will continue to receive royalty payments from Pudgy Penguins’ recently launched licensing platform – OverpassIP, which is a revolutionary step for NFTs and blockchain technology. The platform creates a seamless solution to NFT licensing. Holders can submit their non-fungible tokens to be considered for future Pudgy Toy launches and other brand initiatives.
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