New Mario and Kirby-Themed Collectables from Bandai have just Dropped in Japan
Bandai has launched a fresh line of products in Japan featuring two of Nintendo’s most cherished characters: Mario and Kirby. Available now, these items include character magnets and gummy chocolates. This release underscores Bandai’s ongoing collaboration with Nintendo, a partnership that has long produced merchandise celebrating the company’s iconic franchises.
Mario, the plumber who leapt into fame with Donkey Kong in 1981, and Kirby, the pink hero of Kirby’s Dream Land from 1992, are cornerstones of gaming history. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto and Masahiro Sakurai respectively, both characters have evolved from their 8-bit origins into global icons, spawning countless games and collectibles. Bandai’s latest offerings tap into this legacy, blending nostalgia with modern appeal for players who grew up with these titles.
The Mario Character Magnets, now in their second series, cost 250 yen each—roughly €1.55, $1.65, or £1.30, based on exchange rates as of February 2025. Sold in blind bags, each pack includes a magnet, a memo card, and a piece of gum, with 22 designs featuring Mario and his universe’s characters. The Kirby gummy chocolates, priced at 200 yen per bag (about €1.25, $1.35, or £1.05), offer 11 distinct Kirby designs encased in a chocolate shell with a gummy centre. These prices reflect Japan’s retail market, though international fans may need to explore import options like HobbyLink Japan or Play-Asia, as direct purchase links from Bandai remain Japan-focused.
As you enjoy these new items, preserve your own classic games with RetroShell, crafted to safeguard your retro collection. For more news on vintage gaming, sign up for our free Substack, arriving in your inbox every Monday.
