The world of Angry Birds extends far beyond the screen, captivating fans with an array of collectible items. These collectibles capture the essence and excitement of the game, allowing enthusiasts to bring a piece of the Angry Birds universe into their homes. The variety is astonishing, from plushies that are perfect for cuddling to intricately designed figures that showcase each character’s unique traits. There’s something for every type of collector, whether you’re starting your collection or looking to find those rare pieces that elude even the most dedicated fans.

Diving deeper into the Angry Birds collectibles, it’s fascinating to see how these items have become more than just merchandise; they’re a way for fans to connect with the game and each other. Collectors often seek out limited edition items and rare merchandise, turning their hobby into a thrilling hunt for the next great find. The appeal of these collectibles isn’t just in their aesthetic or rarity but in the joy of discovery and the challenge of completing a collection.

The Story Behind Angry Birds

The history and evolution of the Angry Birds franchise are fascinating. They have gone from humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon.

Angry Birds Friends origins

It all started with a Finnish game studio called Rovio. The creation of Angry Birds was a last-ditch effort for the small company, which was on the verge of bankruptcy. The game featured uniquely designed birds that looked angry, with simplistic designs that lacked wings or legs. The narrative behind their anger was centered around pigs stealing their eggs, a simple yet engaging storyline that captured the hearts of players worldwide.

Rising to fame

Despite a slow start upon its release in 2009, Angry Birds quickly became a hit, first topping the charts in Finland. Rovio’s strategy to focus on smaller countries initially paid off, and the game’s popularity soared. By 2010, after being featured on the UK Apple App Store, Angry Birds catapulted to success. This marked the beginning of its transformation from a fun game on our mobile devices to a multifaceted entertainment franchise.

The evolution of the Angry Birds franchise

The Angry Birds franchise transcended its original medium of a mobile game, branching out to other forms of media and entertainment. It expanded into an animated series, physical media, and even movies, solidifying its status as a beloved brand across different age groups and cultures. The story of Angry Birds is not just about a mobile game; it’s about innovation, perseverance, and creating a cultural icon that continues to evolve.

Iconic Characters from the Franchise

In the “Angry Birds” world, a few characters stand out and have cemented their place in the hearts of fans worldwide. These include Red, Chuck, and Bomb, each bringing their unique charm and abilities to the game.

Red: the fiery leader of the flock

Red, the Northern Cardinal with a fiery temper, is the iconic face of “Angry Birds.” His dislike for the green piggies drives much of the game’s storyline, making him a favorite among players. Collectibles featuring Red, from plush characters to various memorabilia, are popular items that fans love to gather.

Chuck: the fast and feisty canary

Chuck, the fast and feisty yellow bird, is another central character in the “Angry Birds” universe. Based on an Atlantic Canary, Chuck is Red’s best friend, bringing speed and precision to the game. His quick wit and speed make him a valuable member of the team, and collectibles featuring Chuck are sought after for their vibrant color and representation of his spirited personality.

Bomb: the explosive team member

Bomb, the black bird with a literal twist, is essential to the team. Modeled after the Myna bird, Bomb has the unique ability to explode, making him a powerful ally against the green piggies. His cool demeanor and explosive nature have made Bomb a fan favorite, with various collectibles celebrating his unique role in the game.

King Pig and the Bad Piggies

Not to be overlooked, King Pig, the leader of the green Bad Piggies, and his Bad Piggies serve as the main antagonists in the game. Their endless schemes to steal the birds’ eggs make them the perfect foils for the heroic birds. While they may not be as beloved as Red, Chuck, and Bomb, collectibles featuring the green bad piggies offer fans a way to own a part of the game’s fun and challenging dynamics.

Angry Birds Plush Craze

Angry Birds plush toys surged in popularity following the massive success of the Angry Birds mobile game. These plush toys captured the essence and vibrant colors of the beloved characters, bringing them to life in a new, tactile form.

Appeal across age groups

Fans of the game, spanning across various age groups, found these plush toys irresistible, leading to their widespread popularity. Not only did they serve as a physical representation of the characters fans had grown to love on screen, but they also became a must-have item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Community and emotional connection

The craze for Angry Birds plushies can be attributed to several factors. First, players’ emotional connection with the game translated into a tangible attachment to the plush toys. Additionally, these plushies’ high-quality design and attention to detail made them stand out. They were not only toys but collectible items that accurately represented the game’s unique art style and humor. This fidelity to the source material made them highly sought after by children, adult fans, and collectors who appreciated the craftsmanship.

Furthermore, the collectibility aspect of Angry Birds plush toys played a significant role in their popularity. With a variety of characters available, each with their own distinct personality and look, collecting them all became a fun and rewarding challenge. Limited edition releases and special variants added to the excitement, creating a bustling community of collectors eager to complete their collections and share their finds with others.

Rare and Highly Sought-After Angry Birds Items

In the vibrant world of collectibles, Angry Birds items stand out as particularly sought-after treasures. These include a variety of rare and limited edition pieces that fans and collectors are eager to get their hands on. Among these prized possessions, some have gained notoriety for their scarcity and the high demand they command in the market.

2012 IIHF Finland and Sweden Hockey Angry Birds Plush Collection

One notable example is the 2012 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Finland and Sweden Hockey Angry Birds Plush collection. This unique set features the Hockey Bird, who served as the tournament’s mascot. The collection includes plushes of varying sizes: large, medium, and small. As of now, this highly coveted collection is fetching a price of $4,000 on eBay, a testament to its rarity and the value collectors place on it.

Obi-Wan Kaboomi Angry Birds Star Wars Plush

Another exceptional item is the Obi-Wan Kaboomi Angry Birds Plush, which comes in its original bag and box. This particular plush, stemming from the Angry Birds Star Wars series, stands out for its connection to the beloved franchise and its significant resale value, currently listed at $5,000 on eBay.

Sample Angry Birds Star Wars II Anakin Skywalker Plush

Adding to the list of rare Angry Birds collectibles is the Sample Angry Birds Star Wars II Anakin Skywalker Plush. This item’s extreme scarcity makes it particularly unique; only 2 of these plushes exist. Originally intended to be part of an Anakin multipack, this plush is now a standalone collector’s item, with a current listing price of $1,199.99 on eBay.

Tips for Starting Your Angry Birds Plushie Collection

Starting an Angry Birds plushie collection can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it’s important to approach it with the right mindset and preparation.

Here are some practical tips for beginners on how to kick off your collection on the right foot, ensure you’re getting authentic items, and avoid common pitfalls.

Set a budget

First and foremost, setting a budget is crucial before you begin building your collection. Your budget ultimately hinges on what you’re willing to spend or invest, so it’s essential to be realistic when determining this. A well-planned budget will help you make informed decisions and prevent overspending.

Research before purchasing

Thorough research is another critical step before you purchase. It’s beneficial to learn as much as possible about the various releases, understand the market prices, and distinguish between a limited edition and a regular collectible. Knowing the difference between mint condition and good condition items can also play a significant role in making wise collecting decisions.

Buying plushies

When you’re ready to start acquiring pieces for your collection, there are several considerations to keep in mind during the purchasing process. Always opt for buying from reputable online stores; meticulously read the reviews and don’t hesitate to request additional photos or information about the item you’re interested in. Exploring local thrift stores, flea markets, and specialty stores can also yield unique finds, but exercise caution as knockoffs are more common in these venues.

Engaging with community

Connecting with the plushie collecting community can greatly enhance your collecting experience. Joining online groups and forums offers a platform to share insights and learn from fellow collectors. If it’s feasible and safe, attending meetups with local collectors can provide valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, conventions are excellent venues for snagging limited-edition plushies and connecting with others who share your passion.

Maintaining and Preserving Your Angry Birds Plushie Collection

Caring for your Angry Birds plushies is essential to preserve their condition and value over time. Whether kept as collectibles or cherished playthings, these plush toys require specific attention to maintain their vibrant colors and structural integrity. By following a few key guidelines, you can ensure your plushies remain in top-notch condition for years to come.

Proper storage

Protecting them from direct sunlight is one of the most critical factors in plush toy preservation. UV rays can be incredibly damaging, causing the fabric colors to fade and the materials to degrade over time. Therefore, displaying or storing your Angry Birds plushies in a location where they are not exposed to direct sunlight is advisable. This precaution will significantly contribute to maintaining the vividness of their colors and the overall appearance of the plushies.

In addition to safeguarding them from sunlight, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels is paramount. Plushies are best kept in a cool and dry environment to prevent any moisture-related damage or the growth of mold and mildew. These conditions preserve the fabric and filling materials and ensure that the plushies remain safe and hygienic for handling and display.

Regular cleaning for plush preservation

Regular cleaning is also essential for keeping your plushies in pristine condition. Dust accumulation not only detracts from the appearance of your Angry Birds plushies but can also contribute to a deterioration of the materials over time. A routine dusting of the display area and the plush toys themselves with a feather duster is an effective way to remove surface dust.

For more detailed cleaning, especially in small, hard-to-reach areas of the plush, using a small swab or toothbrush can be incredibly effective in removing dust and maintaining the plushie’s appearance.

Where to Find Angry Birds Collectibles

If you’re an avid collector looking to expand your collection of Angry Birds collectibles, you’re in luck. There are several fantastic places where you can find everything from limited edition plushies to rare figurines, ensuring your collection continues to grow with unique and sought-after items.

Whether you prefer shopping online or love the thrill of finding a rare piece in person, a variety of options are available to suit every collector’s needs.

Online shopping

Online platforms like eBay, Walmart, Amazon, and the official Angry Birds Online Shop are treasure troves for collectors. These sites offer a wide range of Angry Birds merchandise, from the latest releases to rare collectibles that are hard to find elsewhere. eBay, in particular, is great for finding unique items from other collectors, including out-of-production merchandise or special edition items. The convenience of online shopping means you can add to your collection from the comfort of your home, with the excitement of awaiting your latest find’s arrival.

Physical shopping

For those who prefer a more tactile shopping experience, specialty plush stores and conventions are fantastic places to hunt for Angry Birds collectibles. Specialty stores often carry exclusive items not available elsewhere, making them a must-visit for serious collectors. Conventions, on the other hand, offer a wide selection of merchandise and provide the opportunity to meet fellow fans and collectors. It’s a great way to discover new items, learn more about collectibles, and even get insider tips on where to find the best pieces.

Collector communities

Lastly, don’t overlook the power of collector communities. These groups, whether found online or in person, can be invaluable resources for finding rare and desirable Angry Birds collectibles. Members often trade items, helping each other fill their collections’ gaps. Furthermore, these communities can offer advice on where to find the best deals and how to authenticate collectibles, ensuring that you’re adding genuine items to your collection.

Why Collect Angry Birds Merchandise?

Exploring the reasons behind collecting Angry Birds items unveils a fascinating journey through nostalgia, investment opportunities, and unwavering fan loyalty.

Nostalgia and memory

With its simple yet engaging gameplay, this franchise has cemented its place in pop culture, becoming more than just a game on our mobile devices—it’s a phenomenon that has sparked a fervent collecting culture. Whether it’s for the joy of revisiting cherished memories, the potential financial gain, or simply to express dedication to the franchise, there are numerous benefits to collecting Angry Birds merchandise.

One of the most compelling reasons to collect Angry Birds items is their emotional connection. For many, Angry Birds is not just a game; it’s a tangible link to the past. Whether you were a child when you first flung a bird across your screen or have fond memories associated with the game, collecting plushies and other memorabilia can serve as a portal to those simpler, joyful times. This connection is not merely about possession; it’s about reliving and cherishing moments that bring us happiness.

Building community

Moreover, collecting Angry Birds items can foster a sense of community and shared experience. In a world where digital interactions often surpass physical ones, the act of trading, sharing tips, and simply discussing collectibles can create meaningful connections.

This community aspect is invaluable, as it enhances the collecting experience and contributes to a broader sense of belonging among fans. Through these interactions, collectors are not just amassing items; they’re building relationships and contributing to the culture surrounding the franchise.

Angry Birds collectibles as cultural artifacts

Lastly, Angry Birds collectibles serve as cultural artifacts, stamps of a particular period in our history. The plushies and other merchandise immortalize a game that once dominated our mobile devices, offering a glimpse into what was popular and valued at a specific time.

This aspect of collecting goes beyond personal or community benefits; it’s about preserving a piece of pop culture history for future generations to appreciate and understand. In this way, collecting Angry Birds items is not just a hobby—it’s a tribute to a franchise that has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.

Sources

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https://wakaii.com/blogs/our-blog/how-to-start-a-plushie-collection
https://myheartteddy.com/how-to-look-after-and-maintain-your-plush-toys-collection/
https://angrybirds.fandom.com/wiki/Plush_Toys
https://www.landofgeek.com/posts/science-behind-collecting-memorabilia