The core concept centers around interactive toys that come to life within a video game, blending physical collectibles with digital gameplay. This genre often features action-adventure elements, character customization, and a strong emphasis on collecting figures to unlock in-game content, exemplified by titles where physical toy ownership directly impacts the player’s experience.
The significance of this category lies in its appeal to a broad audience, particularly younger players, fostering creativity and engagement through the tangible-to-digital connection. Historically, the integration of physical toys with video games represents a notable shift in the gaming landscape, creating new revenue streams and blurring the lines between play and collecting. Its benefits range from enhancing imaginative play to developing strategic thinking as players optimize their in-game teams using different toy characters.