The nebulous release date of sometime in 2016 for both Pokémon Z and Pokémon GO should no longer be of critical importance. What should matter is the news about Build-A-Bear and The Pokémon Company collaborating to bring custom plush Pikachus to the Build-A-Bear workshops in North America, Australia, Europe, and online.
According to iDigital Times, Pokémon GO might bring players virtual Pokémon in the real world, but Pikachu as Build-A-Bear workshops will see real Pokémon coming to the real world, in case by "real Pokémon" the implication is "reasonable plush facsimile of imaginary pocket monster." The Pikachu that gamers can gather are exclusive to Build-A-Bear.
Customization options for Pikachu in-store comprise a PokeBall hoodie, whereby the companies sell matching kids and adults-sized versions of American Girl Doll-style. Fans who buy their Pikachu pal online will get the same PokeBall hoodie - a Charizard costume - and a sound chip.
More information concerning the price is yet to surface, and there are no pictures of what the final Build-A-Pikachu might look like. The only image that has been unveiled is that of a Japanese Pikachu plush wearing a Charizard costume. Furthermore, gamers that purchase a Pikachu will get a free Pokémon trading card.
According to Monika Salazar, the Pokémon Company International's director of licensing, both Pokémon and Build-A-Bear workshop create memorable experiences for players of all ages, Gamespot reported.
Salazar said, "We are delighted to partner with a brand like Build-A-Bear Workshop that represents fun and friendship."
The partnership is definitely a part of Pokémon's 20th anniversary plans. This pegs the question as to whether Nintendo and the Pokémon Company have other surprises to unveil in 2016. Fans will have to wait and see what surfaces from the two companies come next year.