Jazwares has announced that they have signed a deal with Mojang to become the exclusive worldwide producer of licensed toys and electronics for the insanely popular Minecraft intellectual property.
While not exactly a household name, Jazwares specializes in creating licensed toys and has an extensive back catalog of products for brands such as; Adventure Time, Mortal Kombat, Plants vs. Zombies, Scribblenauts, and Sonic. The deal with Mojang will see the company produce a full line of Minecraft action figures, plush toys, and paper craft items. The goal for both companies is to have the full lineup available at major retailers in time for the 2013 Holiday shopping season.
“Minecraft is one of the hottest brands on the planet right now.” said Laura Zebersky, Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Jazwares. “The world is playing the game and engaging in its remarkably compelling modes. The marketplace is primed for a line of toys, electronics and paper craft items that reflect the fun and creativity of the game.”
Mojang CEO, Carl Manneh added, “We are excited by our new partnership with Jazwares. This partnership will help give our community a new way to interact with the game they love.”
You are likely well aware of Minecraft‘s popularity among adult gamers, however, if you don’t happen to have any grade school-aged children (or nieces/nephews in grade school) you are missing more than half of the picture. Speaking as the parent of two young daughters who are obsessed with Minecraft on the Xbox 360, this upcoming toy line is going to be “the thing” this Holiday season. It is literally the only topic of discussion that the kids talk about on the schoolyard playground… the dinner table, when they are supposed to be doing homework, and first thing in the morning.
If Jazwares produces a Creeper action figure as part of this deal, forget about it.
We will keep an eye out for any official word on the exact Minecraft lineup of products that Mojang and Jazwares has planned, and let you know as soon as they are announced.
