When the mobile-based Minecraft Earth was announced last year, it immediately drew comparisons to Pokemon Go because of its use of virtual reality and activities that are based on location. It was quite different, as senior editor Jess Conditt can attest, since you didn't have to leave the house to participate in the mining or building activities. Now, Mattel has added another play dimension to Minecraft Earth that Pokemon Go can't really boast about: NFC-enabled figurines.
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Gallery: Minecraft Earth minis | 14 Photos
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The Boost Mini figures are priced at $5 each. They will feature various characters from the Minecraft franchise, including Steve, Alex, creepers ducks, a cow and others. Each figure is adorable on its own, however placing it against an NFC-capable device can unlock special features within Minecraft Earth for a certain amount of time, displayed by a timer on the screen. You'll also earn XP by registering the mini with the game as a further incentive to collect all of them (or take them away from friends).
The first batch that will be released this spring has 20 different minis, with 10 different abilities to choose from. Mattel also has an accessory pouch that can be clipped onto your belt to carry your Minecraft Earth game with you on the go.
Mattel introduced new $3.50 blind-box miniatures that are themed to the original Minecraft. They also have larger figures that measure 3.5 inches that connect with the forthcoming Minecraft Dungeons. The Redstone Monstrosity is especially fun since it's scaled in a way that is comparable to the toys, measuring over six inches tall. The 3.5-inch figurines cost $10 and the monstrosity is expected to retail for $25 when it's released in the fall.
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