McDonald's Japan is set to launch a limited-time "Minecraft The Movie" Happy Set, starting from May 16, 2025, at participating locations across the country. This collaboration marks the first time that the beloved video game franchise, which has sold over 300 million copies worldwide, will feature toys inspired by its cinematic adaptation.
The Happy Set will include a total of eight different toys, comprising six block-themed toys and two character figure toys. Each toy is designed to allow children to create their own unique "Minecraft" world, encouraging creativity and imaginative play. The first series will be available from May 16 to May 22, featuring popular characters such as the Creeper, stone blocks, and grass blocks.
From May 23 to May 29, the second series will be introduced, showcasing additional toys including Red Stone blocks, Diamond blocks, and the character Hati. Following these two series, a third series featuring all types of toys will be available starting May 30, 2025.
The price for the Happy Set starts at 490 yen (approximately $4), though some locations may charge different prices. Due to the popularity of these toys, McDonald's has advised customers to limit their purchases to four sets per person to ensure that as many children as possible can enjoy them.
Each toy comes with a unique feature that allows kids to combine pieces and customize their creations. For instance, the Creeper toy, a staple character in the "Minecraft" universe, can be connected to other blocks and features a mechanism that allows its head to move. Additionally, the stone block toy opens up to reveal characters from the movie, such as Garrett, further enhancing the interactive experience.
As part of this initiative, McDonald's is also introducing a digital game that can be accessed by scanning a QR code found on the toy box. This game allows players to collect items and complete missions within a time limit, immersing them deeper into the "Minecraft" universe. The game will be available from May 16, 2025, until December 31, 2025, providing ample opportunity for fans to engage with the content.
According to a statement from McDonald's, the toys are themed around creativity, graphics, space, and logic, aiming to foster cognitive development in children. These themes are integral to the gameplay of "Minecraft," where players build and explore vast worlds made up of blocks.
Yoshiko Sawai, a director at the Japan Child Development Association, commented on the significance of such toys, stating, "Creativity is the power to live in a square world. The game 'Minecraft' allows players to build structures and creatures from their imagination, which can lead to exciting adventures in the movie adaptation. By assembling cubes, children can create buildings and life forms, enhancing their spatial awareness and creativity."
In addition to the "Minecraft The Movie" Happy Set, McDonald's will also launch a "Chiikawa" Happy Set, featuring toys designed with McDonald's crew uniforms. This set will include practical items such as drink cup holders and pancake cases, appealing to a wide range of children.
The "Minecraft The Movie" Happy Set is not only a way for children to enjoy the franchise through toys, but it also serves as a platform for them to engage in imaginative play and creative expression. Each toy's design encourages children to think critically about how they can combine various elements to create their own unique worlds.
McDonald's has emphasized that the availability of the toys is limited, and once they are sold out, they will not be restocked. This scarcity adds an element of urgency for fans eager to collect these exclusive items.
As the launch date approaches, excitement is building among fans of both the game and the movie. The collaboration is expected to attract a significant number of customers, especially families looking for fun and engaging activities for their children.
In summary, the "Minecraft The Movie" Happy Set represents a unique blend of entertainment and education, allowing children to immerse themselves in a world of creativity while enjoying the delicious food that McDonald's is known for. With its innovative toys and digital game, this Happy Set is sure to be a hit among young fans and parents alike.