Disney Tsum Tsum (Disney Stack Stack if you translate it to English) debuted in Japan in an app similar to Bejeweled. Instead of gems (or candy in that other game that will remain nameless), players have to connect Disney characters. The magic of the game comes in the design of the characters, which are ridiculously adorable with their large heads – actually, the entire design consists almost entirely of the heads. The app proved to be so popular in Japan that physical plush were also released, and they too captured the country’s heart. Now, Tsum Tsum have arrived in the U.S. – take a closer look at them after the break!
Before its stateside debut this week, the app has been downloaded over 14 million times. Over 1.6 million of the plush collectibles have sold at retail. Now, the question is will the success translate to this region? If the word over the past few days is to be believed, the answer should be a resounding yes. I had the opportunity to preview the stackable plush and the app at Disney Consumer Products’ holiday merchandise preview last week, and it was instantly clear that fans would be addicted to the cuteness overload. Often, those in North America tell Disney representatives that Japan seems to get cooler collectibles for adults. We have seen limited Disney merchandise that originated in Japan make its way here, and Tsum Tsum could be the most popular yet.
The app is available for free on both iOS and Android platforms. Developed with Disney by LINE, a calling and messaging app in Japan, the experience is described as “the fluffiest puzzle game ever.” Gamers collect Tsum Tsum characters within the game, earn points and increase the abilities of their collection, the more that they play. Given that each character has a different ability, there is an opportunity for long hours of gameplay, not including the addiction which will only extend it.
The app is now available for download (for FREE, with in-app purchases) – head over to the App Store or Google Play Store to download. View the launch video here:
The plush are also on sale now, both at your local Disney Store and on DisneyStore.com. Head out and start collecting now because Disney will soon be expanding both the game and the number of characters in plush form!