Despite the kid-friendly allure of vinyl figures, older collectors tend to dominate the toys' audience. Radica's new U.B. Funkeys, however, introduce a world where little ones can get their vinyl-toy fix without worrying about shelf appeal or future market value -- although, with some of the 40-plus figures more limited than others, there's also plenty of room for serious collectors to get onboard.
The best part: Once the figure is out of the box, you're only halfway to enjoying it. Install the included software, plug your U.B. Funkey into a computer's USB port ("fun key" -- get it?), and you've got access to Terrapinia, the online world where Funkey owners come together to play games, explore different zones, earn credit toward in-game prizes, and customize and show off their Funkeys' virtual cribs.
Priced at $19.99, the U.B. Funkeys Starter Kit includes a hub, two figures and PC software; additional characters can be purchased separately for $4.99 each.
Check out the clip below for a glimpse at the addictive little buggers in action, and camp out at the premier Funkeys fansite for more videos, as well as forums, images, tips and tricks, once you've gotten started.
