4K Media has signed two new licensing agreements to launch Yu-Gi-Oh! collectibles.
The Konami Digital Entertainment subsidiary, which represents the Yu-Gi-Oh! brand in the US and globally (excluding Asia), inked deals with Pop! Vinyl collectibles creator Funko and global retailer Game Stop. The new line is slated to launch in Q1 2018.
Funko is producing a range of stylized vinyl collectible figures and additional related products focusing on monsters and fan-favorite characters from the Yu-Gi-Oh! brand. Earlier this year, Funko acquired the assets of London-based manufacturer and distributor Underground Toys (UT) as it continues to diversify.
GameStop, meanwhile, will create a line of four-inch Yu-Gi-Oh! collectible figurines that will be available on its websites and in its stores, as well as in a number of its partners’ stores around the world. GameStop operates more than 7,500 locations in 14 countries.
Yu-Gi-Oh! brand celebrates its 16th anniversary this year. The brand has grown to include more than 800 TV episodes, three feature films, a mobile game, trading card game and consumer products.
In recent months, 4K has tapped Australia’s Coverpoint Marketing as a licensing agent for the Yu-Gi-Oh! brand in Australia and New Zealand, while an exclusive licensing deal with lifestyle brand Silver Buffalo was inked for Canada and the US.