MGA Entertainment is expanding its Miniverse collectible range with a functional miniature television system. The Miniverse Real TV Player and Video Tapes line is available now through MGA's online store, with additional retail availability scheduled for later this month.
The player set includes a tiny retro-style red television, an exclusive videotape and a video display case. To use it, collectors insert a videotape into the TV, press play and watch a 30-second clip from the associated show or film. MGA says there are more than 30 Real TV Video Tapes to discover, giving the line a catalogue of short scenes rather than full-length programs.
The licensed clips come from NBCUniversal properties, including Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Back to the Future, Casper, The Good Place, The Office and Saved by the Bell, among others. The mix spans animated films, family entertainment and television comedy, allowing the miniature TV to draw on recognizable moments from several kinds of programming.
Collectors can expand the setup with mystery capsules, which are sold separately. Each capsule contains three mini videotapes designed to fit the TV, along with a mini keychain and a case for carrying a favorite tape. The structure supports both display and playback: tapes can be kept in the video display case, carried in the smaller case or inserted into the player. The player set's exclusive tape provides a starting point, while the capsules add further tapes to the collection.
The line continues MGA's expansion of its Miniverse collectible offerings, but adds a working playback element. Rather than serving only as a static miniature, the Real TV Player is designed to play a short clip once a tape is inserted. That function sits alongside the collectible tapes, display case and capsule accessories. MGA presents the product as both a collectible and a playable miniature.
A small screen with real playback
Josh Hackbarth, chief marketing officer at MGA Entertainment, said the small screen represents a larger idea. He said the line turns familiar movies and shows into a collection that users can actually play. According to Hackbarth, the product arrives as some fans rediscover physical media, and choosing a tape, inserting it and watching an iconic scene offers a particular kind of satisfaction. He described the mix of nostalgia and real functionality as playful, innovative and unexpected, which he said is central to Miniverse.
The new line is designed for children ages 8 and up. MGA directs consumers to its online store for more information.