Toy Fair 2015 had its highs and lows during its opening weekend at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The low being Hasbro and the lack of discussion around Star Wars: The Black Series and Star Wars Rebels. A variety of other exhibiting manufacturers and distributors displayed numerous toys and products, many of which have plans to expand upon collections as we get closer to Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Going in alphabetical order, this post gathers up the best tweets, photos, videos, and other content related to this year’s Toy Fair.
Bladez Toys, Inc.
International company Bladez Toys, Inc., specializes in designing, developing, and distributing licensed products, including jumbo radio controlled inflatable toys. The following samples of Yoda and Darth Vader are hints of what’s to come soon from Bladez Toys. Yodasnews.com also has a video of the inflatable toys in operation and R2-D2 can be seen in a picture taken by the Collector’s Cantina.
Inflatable rc @starwars Yoda and Darth Vader from Bladez #tfny #toyfairny http://t.co/CexlAJ7Pvr pic.twitter.com/qjDhdpMQTR
— Stitch Kingdom (@stitchkingdom) February 14, 2015
Buffalo Games Inc.
Buffalo is a leading designer and manufacturer of jigsaw puzzles and board games. Created using thick graphic board and premium paper, the puzzles range between 300 and 4,000 pieces. The upcoming photomosaic puzzles include Princess Leia, Darth Maul, Chewbacca/Han Solo, and C-3PO/R2-D2. Current puzzles can be found at their website.
New #StarWars Photomosaic puzzles from Buffalo. #TFNY pic.twitter.com/BBJQdQr5bK
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
Cardinal Industries, Inc.
Serving as the largest and innovative manufacturer and distributor for licensed family games and puzzles, Cardinal has exciting things planned for the Star Wars brand as we head closer to Star Wars: The Force Awakens. According to Justin LaSalata, “TONS of new Star Wars items [are] coming from Cardinal. Sadly no photography allowed.”
#StarWars puzzle and things at the Cardinal booth! #TFNY pic.twitter.com/66mj1mPq0B
— Johnamarie Macias (@BlueJaigEyes) February 14, 2015
Cartamundi USA
Cartamundi USA is the oldest and largest playing cards manufacturer. They have a variety of product categories, including cards for popular games and board games, collectibles and trading cards, promotional cards to advertise a brand or product, retail playing cards, cards based on licensed and name brands, and much more.
According to a comment over at Instagram, “If everything goes according to plan, [the Star Wars Rebels cards will] make their debut in April!” The items pictured also include Boba Fett playing cards and Classic playing cards. Check out these additional photos.
Comic Images
Comic Images is one of the largest publishers of non-sport trading cards and collectibles. They are also well-known for their plush toys and backpacks (also known as back buddies). The line of Star Wars Rebels plush dolls has received criticism from the fanbase, since it fails to include both women characters, Sabine Wren and Hera Syndulla. When asked about incorporating those two characters, it was stated that the art for the two plush toys does exist, but it remains uncertain whether they will be manufactured. The current line includes Ezra Bridger, Kanan Jarrus, Zeb Orrelios, Chopper, the Inquisitor, and a stormtrooper. Being that the two women characters have an equally strong presence in the animated series, it’s a shame that manufacturers and distributors continue to ignore 50 percent of their audience.
Additional pictures can be found at Vinylmation World.
@newyorktf @comicimages @JediNewsUK Some cool plush products from Comic Images pic.twitter.com/26iX1udrrh
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Diamond Comic Distributors
Both a distributor and manufacturer of licensed toys and collectibles, Diamond Comic Distributors focuses on a variety of popular brands, including Star Wars. Though nothing new to place on exhibit, there was a shelf dedicated to money banks and a display of Gentle Giant statues.
Fascinations, Inc.
The maker of Metal Earth 3D Metal Model Kits, Fascinations had a variety of Star Wars metal models on display along with Star Wars: The Force Awakens signage. Given their focus on vehicles and droids, I’m sure we’ll see BB-8, Rey’s speeder, and a few other designs down the line in the near future. Visit their website for more information on the current products. Check out these additional pictures from Stitch Kingdom, Justin LaSalata (here and here), and Radio Free Cybertron.
Fantasy Flight Games
A leading hobby-marketer publisher of board games, card games, roleplaying games, and other tabletop games, Fantasy Flight Games has diverse products based on The Lord of the Rings, A Game of Thrones, and other media entertainment, such as Battlestar Galactica and Star Wars.
Flair Hair
Specializing in the production of licensed hats inspired by popular franchises, Flair Hair has a handful of upcoming Star Wars caps and beanies.
@FlairHair @newyorktf @JediNewsUK Cool hats and visors from Flair Hair. Handy for the Arctic conditions! pic.twitter.com/5qFUH3kcGx
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Funko
Funko is the leading manufacturer in bobble heads and vinyl figures. Both the Hikari vinyls and the new Darth Vader figure were unveiled. Visit Vinylmation World for more pictures.
Hikari at the #Funko booth! #ToyFair #NewYorkToyFair pic.twitter.com/ir9NWyZnRz
— Funko (@OriginalFunko) February 14, 2015
Goliath Games, LLC
Game creator Goliath is a leading manufacturer in family and children’s games. Pending licensor approval, some of their new and upcoming Star Wars games will be a domino-based racing game with R2-D2 and Hoth inspired setting.
New #StarWars games from Goliath (UK approved only right now) #TFNY pic.twitter.com/T1vmRAXxSe
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
Hasbro
For my full write-up of the Hasbro Preview Event, visit MakingStarWars.net. For complete galleries of what was shown, visit Jedi News (Hero Mashers, Bladebuilders, and Furbacca). James Burns gave fans some hope after many criticized Hasbro for disregarding further news about Star Wars: The Black Series and Star Wars Rebels in addition to the earlier announcement of no Star Wars: The Force Awakens figures at Toy Fair 2015.
If yesterdays Hasbro reveal was 1/10; then what's coming for the Fall/TFA gets 8/10. Hope that makes people feel better! @JediNewsUK
— James Burns (@planetburns) February 15, 2015
Imperial Toy LLC
A leading manufacturer of bubbles and bubble toys based on fan favorite licensed brands and properties, Imperial Toy is introducing the first line of Star Wars bubbles. The 16-inch R2-D2 bubble machine blows bubbles, makes authentic sounds, and rotates its head. It includes an 8oz bottle of SMB Bubble solution and three different bubble performance modes. The promise of Star Wars: The Force Awakens products was also expressed clearly with signage. Other products also include:
- 8oz Figural Bubble Bottles: “8oz bottle of Super Miracle Bubbles solution and Star Wars themed wand! Now available: R2-D2, Yoda, and Darth Vader. Collect your favorite characters! More styles coming soon!”
- Glow in the Dark Bubble Tins: “Light up the night and save the day with glow in the dark bubble solution! Fill your lightsabers with SMB Glow solution. Lightsabers include built in LED light for continued fun after the glow bubbles are gone! Packaged in giftable and durable tin storage case with embossed graphics.”
- Bubble Lightsabers: “6-inch Bubble Lightsabers includes 1oz of SMB Bubble solution. Features LED light for continuous fun after the bubbles are gone! Now available: Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. More styles coming soon. Collect them all!”
Click here and visit Jedi News for other pictures.
Jakks Pacific
My least favorite toy company, Jakks Pacific had on display its upcoming toys for 2015, including the 18-inch Boss, Yoda, and R2-D2. No women characters have been announced and they continue to separate Star Wars into a “boys” category. Check out the photo gallery by Jedi News and MTV News for a full report on the upcoming toys.
A Look at the upcoming Star Wars and Disney Toys from Jakks Pacific – http://t.co/4RpJ63TyVX pic.twitter.com/5ZBMmvgvMJ
— Vinylmation World (@vinylmationworl) February 15, 2015
Jelly Belly Candy Company
Making a variety of jelly bean candies, the Jelly Belly Candy Company takes pride in its licensed products, including the Star Wars Jelly Belly collection, creating jelly bean dispensers and other items for those with a sweet tooth. Visit the website for current products.
@JellyBellyUK @newyorktf @JediNewsUK Well here's a no – brainer. Jelly beans and @starwars #goodbyediet #yum pic.twitter.com/DQAGtaspuT
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Kotobukiya
Producing quality products, such as ArtFX statues, fine art statues, action figures, and much more, Kotobukiya is a leading collectible toy company known for its superb craftsmanship. On display were the recently announced ArtFX+ statues for R3-A2 & K-3PO. Read more about the original announcement and how to pre-order over at Kotobukiya’s Facebook. Also on display were the new pocket sandwich shapers, featuring Darth Vader, R2-D2, and a stormtrooper. View pictures by Justin LaSalata.
LEGO
LEGO successfully came through and unveiled the new Sabine Wren minifig with detachable hair and helmet. Also on display at Toy Fair 2015 were The Flash Speeder (75091), Death Star Final Duel (75093), Imperial Assault Carrier (75106), and more. View the gallery at The Brick Fan and ComingSoon.net for more photos.
2 more pics of the #StarWarsRebels LEGO #StarWars Sabine minifig! #TFNY pic.twitter.com/deiFbhQD4v
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 14, 2015
Mattel
The upcoming Hot Wheels cars and vehicles were displayed at Toy Fair. Visit Jedi Insider for more photos. Other galleries and photos include Jedi News Gallery, Justin LaSalata, and Mark Newbold.
Star Wars Hot Wheels #Mattel #ToyFair2015 pic.twitter.com/qyNhMF4Ee5
— Radio Free Cybertron (@tfradio) February 16, 2015
Pangea Brands
Pangea Brands creates and distributes high quality accessories and products that reflect current popular brands in the market. Its Star Wars toaster is a popular item, it being sold out in their main website, but you can still find it in other retail stores and online shops. Additional photographs from Justin LaSalata and the Collector’s Cantina.
@CollectCantina. Check out the Darth Vader Toaster. Booth 1555. pic.twitter.com/lc78o7s1iE
— Pangea Brands (@pangeabrands) February 15, 2015
Perplexus
In the late 1970′s, 3D design teacher Michael McGinnis created Perplexus as a part of a project for an art class. The Perplexus Original product is described as, “A puzzle in the round, an obstacle course on a roll. 360 degrees of orbital track filled with mind bending turns, brain-thrilling twists and jaw-dropping stunts that will challenge you, inspire you and have you wondering how can something so easy to pick up, be so hard to put down!” Perplexus can be found worldwide in toy and specialty stores.
Cool Death Star game. #StarWars #TFNY pic.twitter.com/dUmNBudG7Q
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
PPW Toys
Specializing in unique and collectible toys, PPW Toys includes a variety of brands, such as Mr. Potato Head, Star Wars, Marvel, Minions, Breaking Bad, Doctor Who, and many more. Here’s a closer view of the Potato Head keychains.
Keychains & Nesting Dolls from PPW Toys. #StarWars #TFNY pic.twitter.com/g2yNcm2g86
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
New #StarWars Mr. Potato Heads from PPW Toys. #TFNY pic.twitter.com/2aBNaliWay
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
QMx
QMx (Quantum Mechanix) is a creative studio and developer at Los Angeles. The company makes screen-accurate replicas, collectibles, apparel, artwork, and digital apps and games inspired by popular entertainment properties, including Star Wars. They had two prototypes of key chains, one of the Imperial symbol and the other of the Rebel Alliance insignia, on display. Cast in a solid zinc alloy, the Star Wars Slave I Replica key chain is currently out of stock at their website. Visit The Toyark for additional photos.
QMx #StarWars Keychains. #TFNY pic.twitter.com/lvj7BXZ5Q0
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
Revell
A manufacturer of detailed plastic model kits, tools, and wood for crafts, Revell is also the largest distributor of radio control and various hobby products. Their online catalog includes a variety of Star Wars vehicles, and at Toy Fair, they had teases stacked up for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. We’ll see future vehicles and model kits from them soon enough! Here’s another picture from Justin LaSalata.
@JediNewsUK @newyorktf @revell Soooo tempted. .. pic.twitter.com/Gw5zTpJtD4
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Rubie’s Costume Company, Inc.
Rubie’s Costume Company, Inc. is the world’s largest designer, manufacturer, and distributor of Halloween costumes and accessories, including wigs and makeup. One of the properties for which they make products is Star Wars Rebels. They’re also thrilled to offer new products inspired by the highly anticipated sequel film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. I asked a representative there about Hera Syndulla and Sabine Wren costumes and they said that the company is in the planning stages for future costumes. I did get, however, an odd feeling when Rey’s attire was described as something that would be difficult to replicate as a costume. Here’s hoping they come up with something clever and not immediately ignore the leading character. Otherwise, they would be dealing with an impassioned and upset fanbase.
Santoki
Distributing licensed products, such as LEGO Star Wars and Star Wars Rebels, Santoki is a main United States distributor of LEGO LED lights and other licensed LED light products. The Ghost Ship LED KeyLite, the Ghost Ship LED BookLite, and the Inquisitor Lightsaber LED KeyLite are just a few of the examples coming this March.
SD Toys
Producing their own line of merchandising and figures collection for fans and collectors, SD Toys is the first European company from Spain to develop and manufacture these kinds of products, since the practice mainly derived from American and Japanese markets. They have an impressive Star Wars collection on their website that’s worth checking out. Upcoming items include these Star Wars messenger bags and plasticine figures.
@JediNewsUK @sdtoys @newyorktf Very cute plastercine figures from SD Toys pic.twitter.com/K6x2o3cTOs
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Tamashii Nations
Tamashii Nations is Bandai’s premiere collectibles brand that makes products from popular giant robot shows, such as Mazinger Z and Gundam, as well as anime franchises. Pending licensor approval, the Movie Realization category includes the 7-inch Star Wars Samurai Taisho Darth Vader and Ashigaru Stormtrooper. The line will officially come to the United States later in the spring, according to a Facebook announcement. Here are additional images from Justin LaSalata and the Collector’s Cantina. Also, check out ToyzMag.com and ToyChestnews.
@newyorktf @TamashiiNations @JediNewsUK Just insanely beautiful Vader and Stormtrooper figures. pic.twitter.com/eDG1SjgCU9
— Mark Newbold (@jedinews2010) February 15, 2015
Trends International
A publisher and manufacturer of licensed posters, stickers, calendars and stationery, Trends International offers a variety of Star Wars products. Here are additional photos (here and here) from Justin LaSalata and a closer look at the “Periodic Table of the Force” poster from Stitch Kingdom.
Last batch from Trends International. #StarWars #TFNY pic.twitter.com/0BpmCMRDFS
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
Top Trumps
Top Trumps is a fast-paced, competitive, and enjoyable card game with various themes, including Star Wars and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The Star Wars Tournament collection, as seen below, is currently in stock at their online store.
New Topps Trumps. #StarWars #TFNY #StarWarsRebels pic.twitter.com/5j76klJyoq
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
ThinkGeek
ThinkGeek is the prime location to shop online for geek apparel, home and office decor, gadgets, collectibles, and more. They specialize in creating unique products with their licenses, offering a variety of products that come straight from our imaginations. Though the shelves held products that are pending licensor approval, some of the items that jumped out from the shelves included:
- R2-D2 Cupcake Pan
- Exogorth Snow Globe
- R2-D2 Bento Box
- Death Star Waffle Maker
- Star Wars Cookie Cutters
- Star Wars Dinner Set
Check out the following photos from the Collector’s Cantina and Stitch Kingdom (Lightsaber Ice Pop Maker and Death Star Tea Infuser) for more.
@starwars #r2d2 & c3po can cooler son display by @thinkgeek at @ToyFairNY pic.twitter.com/a6k7L8reRW
— CollectorsCantina (@CollectCantina) February 15, 2015
Uncle Milton Industries
Providing children and families with innovative toys that inspire imagination, learning, and discovery, Uncle Milton Industries offers an impressive line-up of brands, including Star Wars Science, Marvel Science, Disney, and National Geographic. It is the leading manufacturer of science and nature exploration products. Check out the Star Wars section at the Uncle Milton site, where imagination meets learning!
Check out Yodasnews.com’s video for Star Wars Force Trainer II as well as their gallery of photos on the products on display. Other pictures can be seen here and here. Mashable also recently published a write-up about the Force Trainer and captured quality pictures.
And a 3rd set of new #StarWars Uncle Milton items. #TFNY pic.twitter.com/WL1a41j5hc
— Justin LaSalata (@justinlasalata) February 15, 2015
Underground Toys
A leading manufacturer and distributor entertainment-based licensed products, Underground Toys includes major brands, such as Star Wars, Doctor Who, Vikings, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and much more. The company now offers a wide range of homewares and decor items.
Check out the following links for more photos: Yodasnews.com, Awesome Toy Blog, The Toyark, Mark Newbold, and Justin LaSalata’s tweets #1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
The Star Wars section at Underground Toys! #TFNY pic.twitter.com/G9bv8b00ms
— Johnamarie Macias (@BlueJaigEyes) February 14, 2015
Vandor
Vandor focuses on keeping legendary entertainment properties alive, supplying fans of all ages with hip and functional products. The company creates hundreds of products every year and distributes them through major national retailers and online stores. Visit the Star Wars section at their site to see more of these impressive items.
Yomega Corp.
Yomega Corp. creates finely engineered and high performance yo-yos and other skill toys. Their current line of licensed Star Wars yo-yos includes String Bling (high performance yo-yos and collectible character rings) of Yoda, Darth Vader, Boba Fett, and a stormtrooper as well as Yo Men (high performance character yo-yos and action stands) of General Grievous, Darth Vader, Yoda, and a clone trooper. Currently available for a limited time are Star Wars Glides (a collectible Star Wars series engineered to the highest competition level standards).
Coming fall 2015 is the Battle Ballerz line.
More great @starwars photos from the @Yomegacorp booth at #ToyFair15 pic.twitter.com/qvEuk8uj5H
— CollectorsCantina (@CollectCantina) February 14, 2015
Cool new @starwars stuff on the way from @Yomegacorp pic.twitter.com/VnePoYXiP1
— CollectorsCantina (@CollectCantina) February 14, 2015
Author: Johnamarie Macias
Johnamarie Macias is a proud Star Wars fangirl. She enjoys contributing to the fan community, working on her original story, and regularly updating her Star Wars-inspired blog, The Wookiee Gunner. She is also a contributor for Fangirl Next Door, and a co-host on “Rebels Chat”.