Pocoyo World is Spanish prodco Zinkia’s first foray into the virtual world space, targeting the three-to-eight set.

With the backing of internet security operator Protégeles, Pocoyo World was created for about US$3 million, produced and developed at Zinkia’s Madrid based studio. It lets users create and customize their own character, meet friends in a secure environment, watch eps of the TV series, sing songs and more.

Basic site access is free of charge, while subscribers will have exclusive access to all the games, eps, puzzles and activities, updated on a regular basis. Going forward, Zinkia will be rolling out a Chinese language site by the end of the year, and is looking to have about 50,000 subscribers by the end of 2010, doubling that forecast number by the end of 2011.

Partners on board to offer free access to Pocoyo World include European master toy licensee Bandai, home entertainment company Big Picture and publishing house Planeta and Planeta Agostini, with the purchase of specific products.