Are Littlest Pet Shop Toys Discontinued

Littlest Pet Shop (LPS) has been a beloved toy line since its inception in the early 1990s. Over the years, it has undergone several transformations and relaunches, capturing the hearts of children and collectors alike. However, questions about the brand's status, particularly regarding whether it has been discontinued, have arisen frequently among fans. This article explores the history of Littlest Pet Shop, its discontinuation, and the exciting news surrounding its relaunch.

History of Littlest Pet Shop

Littlest Pet Shop began as a line of collectible toys created by Kenner Products in 1992. The original figures were small plastic animals that became popular due to their cute designs and playability. In 1991, Hasbro acquired the brand, and it continued to evolve over the years.

- First Generation (1992-1996): The initial release featured simple designs that resembled real animals. The line enjoyed moderate success but was eventually discontinued in 1996 due to declining popularity.

- Second Generation (2005-2011): After a nearly decade-long hiatus, LPS was relaunched with a new look characterized by larger heads and bobbleheads. This redesign attracted a new generation of fans and collectors. The brand expanded significantly during this period, with hundreds of new pets introduced.

- Third Generation (2012-2016): A new animated series premiered on The Hub network alongside another redesign that aimed to modernize the toys further. However, this change was met with mixed reactions from fans.

- Fourth Generation (2017-Present): In 2017, LPS returned once more with updated molds and designs that echoed earlier styles while introducing new characters.

The Discontinuation of Littlest Pet Shop

Despite its popularity, LPS faced challenges in maintaining its market presence. In 2018, Hasbro announced the discontinuation of the toy line due to shifting focus towards other brands and declining sales figures. This left many fans disheartened, as they had grown attached to collecting these charming figures.

The discontinuation was particularly disappointing for collectors who had invested time and money into building their LPS collections. Many took to social media platforms to express their sadness and share their favorite memories associated with the toys. The community had developed a strong bond over the years, celebrating not only the toys themselves but also the friendships formed through shared interests.

The Relaunch: A New Hope for Fans

However, hope was on the horizon. In November 2022, Hasbro entered into a licensing agreement with Basic Fun! to relaunch Littlest Pet Shop products globally starting in 2024. This partnership aims to breathe new life into the brand while honoring its legacy.

What to Expect from the Relaunch

The upcoming relaunch promises exciting developments for both new fans and long-time collectors:

- New Products: Basic Fun! plans to introduce over 140 bobblehead pets along with playsets and accessories that will appeal to a broad audience. The new figures will feature vibrant colors and unique designs that reflect current trends while staying true to the charm that made LPS popular in the first place.

- Digital Integration: A collaboration with Roblox is set to create an immersive pet simulation experience where players can collect virtual pets. This approach aims to connect with today's digitally-savvy children while tapping into nostalgia for older fans. The game will allow users to interact with their pets in various environments, fostering creativity and engagement.

- Global Distribution: The relaunch will see products distributed in over 20 countries, making them accessible to a wider audience than ever before. This global reach is expected to reignite interest in LPS among international fans who may have missed out on previous generations of toys.

Fan Reactions and Community Engagement

The announcement of LPS's return has sparked excitement within the community. Fans have taken to social media platforms like Reddit and YouTube to express their enthusiasm and share their collections. Many collectors are eager to see how Basic Fun! will honor the heritage of LPS while introducing fresh ideas.

Online forums have become vibrant spaces for discussion, with fans sharing their hopes for new characters and playsets. Some have even started speculation about potential collaborations or exclusive releases that could accompany the relaunch.

Collecting Littlest Pet Shop Toys

For many fans, collecting Littlest Pet Shop toys is more than just a hobby; it's a passion that connects them with others who share similar interests. Collectors often participate in trading events or conventions where they can buy, sell, or trade rare figures.

Tips for Collectors

1. Join Online Communities: Engaging with fellow collectors on platforms like Facebook groups or Reddit can provide valuable insights into rare finds and upcoming releases.

2. Attend Conventions: Toy conventions often feature vendors specializing in collectible toys like LPS. These events are great opportunities to find rare items or meet other enthusiasts.

3. Keep Track of Your Collection: Maintaining an inventory of your collection can help you keep track of what you have and what you're looking for.

4. Stay Updated on Releases: Following Basic Fun! on social media or signing up for newsletters can keep you informed about new product launches and exclusive offers.

5. Explore Vintage Options: If you're interested in vintage LPS figures, consider checking out thrift stores or online marketplaces like eBay for hidden gems.

The Impact of Digital Media on Collecting

In today's digital age, social media plays a significant role in how collectors engage with their hobbies. Platforms like Instagram allow fans to showcase their collections through visually appealing posts while connecting with others who share their passion.

YouTube Channels Dedicated to LPS

Several YouTube channels focus on Littlest Pet Shop content, featuring unboxings, reviews, and DIY projects related to LPS toys:

- Unboxing Videos: Many collectors enjoy watching unboxing videos where creators reveal new toys and discuss their features.

- DIY Projects: Creative fans often share tutorials on how to customize or create accessories for their Littlest Pet Shop figures.

- Stop Motion Animation: Some enthusiasts use LPS figures in stop-motion animations, bringing their pet stories to life through creative storytelling.

Conclusion

In summary, while Littlest Pet Shop toys were indeed discontinued for a time, they are set for a grand return in 2024 under Basic Fun!'s stewardship. With new products on the horizon and digital experiences planned for platforms like Roblox, LPS is poised to capture the hearts of both old fans and new generations alike.

As we look forward to this exciting relaunch, it's essential to remember what makes Littlest Pet Shop special—the joy it brings through imaginative play and community connection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Littlest Pet Shop toys still being made?

- No, they were discontinued in 2018 but are set to relaunch in 2024 under Basic Fun!.

2. What changes can we expect in the new Littlest Pet Shop toys?

- Expect new designs featuring bobbleheads and a variety of pets along with playsets.

3. Will there be any digital games related to Littlest Pet Shop?

- Yes! A collaboration with Roblox will introduce a pet simulation game.

4. When can we expect the new Littlest Pet Shop products?

- The products are expected to launch globally in early 2024.

5. Is there any way to collect vintage Littlest Pet Shop toys?

- Yes, many vintage toys can be found on platforms like eBay or at thrift stores.