Familiar Faces And New Modes In The Fifth Chapter of Fortnite

On Britney Spears’ 42^nd birthday and the release of a special in honour of the 60^thanniversary of Doctor Who [12] [17], the fifth chapter of Fortnite was launched [20] [54]. As you know by now, Fortnite: Battle Royale has become perhaps too reliant on special guest appearances from popular franchises for ongoing relevancy. Nonetheless, those who are especially familiar with its humble beginning in 2017 can be observant towards its originality and individuality still peering from the large number of crossovers, especially the gameplay in the Save the World and Battle Royale that has always been a hybrid of Minecraft and Team Fortress 2 [18] [78]. Oh! And do not forget about the original cast of characters from the first few seasons [26], as well as the forms of ambition a Fortnite fighter can express in Fortnite Creative [778! And speaking of gameplay, three new gameplay modes in Fortnite have been established [51]. Load your guns and sharpen your axes just before we list five guest appearances and some interesting new gameplay modes at the beginning of a new chapter that were revealed throughout the week after Stolas from Helluva Boss took us to the stars and made us look his way during a lament [65] [82] [83]. 

While my fellow sinners are tempted into purchasing new Hazbin Hotel and Helluva Boss merchandise and players are all fired up for the third season of Crash Team Rumble featuring Spyro the Dragon [8] [40] [41] [82] [83], Fortnite has gotten even more ambitious! [20] [54]

The first special guest appearance that caught my attention was Peter Griffin from Family Guy [9] [20] [54]. Strangely enough, he has been rendered into a slender, muscled figure, making him “Buff Peter”. I am terribly sorry, but have we learned nothing from the controversial collaboration with Rick & Morty [46]? Much like how Rick and Morty’s 2D art style was strangely adapted in the 3D world of Fortnite [79], the same result has happened to Peter. The appearance of the family guy may grind some gears, especially in an off-putting rendering of his iconic art style being pasted into the world of Fortnite [20] [54], but I suppose that collaborating with properties aimed at older audiences helps the game appeal to older Fortnite fighters. Besides, you cannot go wrong with a little “B-Bird is the word!” now and then [23]. Moreover, it is quite infatuating how a promotional video features how Mr. Griffin got his power for the event [22]. We still ought to be aware of how popular Fortnite has become with today’s youth, especially those under the age of sixteen, but at the same time, let us keep preaching the agelessness of animation, whether it will be 2D, 3D or even stop-motion [75]. 

It seems today, 
That gamers see 
Buff Peter in Fortnite
And sims on PC [13] [69] [72]… [22]

Snake from the Metal Gear Solid franchise is once again on duty for Fortnite: Battle Royale [20] [54]. It can be argued that his appearance in Fortnite is even more ambitious than his role as a fighter in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate [48]. In my opinion, the collaboration with the Metal Gear Solid franchise is the most logical of the bunch because of Snake’s skills in weaponry and the elements of stealth that can occur when you try to shoot a player when they least expect it [48] [59]. However, making him perform those dance moves could be considered even more embarrassing than the time when he was on a skateboard like some Tony Hawk wannabe in Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance [35]. Moreover, such wit could also be off-putting because of how intensely serious the aspects of Snake’s character is as a soldier diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [52]. But as we relish in the fun of Fortnite, we can still show kindness to fellow gamers who happen to have been diagnosed with PTSD themselves [44], aside from some playful banter within a competition. What could be next? Solid Snake as a Survivor in Dead By Daylight…or would that apply to Lara Croft from the Survivor timeline of the Tomb Raider franchise [64] [67]?

While Adam Francis, Felix Richter, and Renato Lyra from The Rainbow Six Siege Collection strive for survival in Dead by Daylight [11] [68], Snake is still all about that stealth. [20] [54]

Would you believe that the iconic style of LEGO has been rendered into the world of Fortnite for a new survival sandbox mode [7] [34] [38] [51] [55]? Of course, LEGO is no stranger to crossovers as some of my fellow gamers may recall LEGO Dimensions, the toys-to-life game that resulted in several crossovers, including the quirkiness of The Simpsons being built a different kind of saffron-fleshed artistry [29], the creation of Sonic the Hedgehog in LEGO form and the day being saved once again with The Powerpuff Girls [56] [63]. Perhaps if Fortnite wants to be even more ambitious during the seasons of the fifth chapter of Fortnite: Battle Royale [20] [54], Deadpool can make a big comeback as a LEGO figure in LEGO Fortnite [5], even if that would result in him being muted once again [79]. After all, LEGO is not just a toy. It is an art form. I do not doubt that LEGO Fortnite is being compared to Minecraft [45], especially if there happens to be a new crossover event at some point in 2024 as Minecraft seems to have also relied a little too heavily on crossovers for relevancy with the latest one being with Jurassic World [50]. Ultimately, both LEGO lovers and Fortnite fighters are finding some joy in a new survival open-world experience [7] [38] [55].

Look how adorable these two are in LEGO form! [55]

There was quite an ironic celebrity guest appearance for the Big Bang Event [14] [21], much like how Ariana Grande was featured in the Rift Tour over two years ago [1] [9]. If you are a Fortnite fighter who is a fan of Eminem’s music [15], consider this up your alley. Surely, some of his songs have been criticised for being too aggressive and even too violent [32], but his talent is hard to deny and “Mockingbird” brought on a much more empathetic side of him and a few tears to his listeners’ eyes [4] [77], thus leading to praise for not always succumbing to certain rap and hip-hop clichés for big sales [76]. I have nothing against celebrity endorsements, but the impact they leave may not always be as bright as the shining of a star as some cartoon critics may recall the foulness of The Slim Shady Show, the infamous cartoon starring him that consisted of crude humour and extremely choppy animation [66]. The reason for Eminem’s appearance during a live event was to promote a new gameplay genre from Harmonix added to the world of Fortnite that is very similar to Guitar Hero called “Fortnite Festival” [43] [47] [51]. Aside from that, it is quite coincidental to see him in Fortnite three years after Venom had an appetite for some crossover craziness [16] [27] [73].

Can the gamers playing Fortnite please stand up? 
Please stand up? Please stand up [15]? [14]

Lastly, The Weeknd makes another celebrity guest appearance for the launch of Fortnite Festival [19] [25] [71]. He is also associated with promoting the new rhythm mode for those who dig their tunes and rhythm gameplay [51]. What could be next? A new hit single sung by The Weeknd featuring Eminem [15] [70]? Fortnite Festival might interest Fortnite fighters who are familiar with rhythm game series like Guitar Hero and Project Diva [33] [43]. However, it might seem a bit too ambitiously different for those who are so used to the iconic battle royale mode, quite like how some younger players who grew up with the Skylanders series must have found the racing mode in Skylanders: SuperChargers a bit too dissimilar for their tastes [74]. Nevertheless, there is nothing wrong with a video game franchise wanting to try something new. I fully supported a speedy blue hedgehog trying new things when I considered myself fan of him [62] [63]. Celebrity guest appearances may seem like an uninspired tactic for public approval, but fans may get some enjoyment out of them if they are done the right way. Yes, that includes those who are still playing Kim Kardashian: Hollywood to this day [30], despite a recent lack of updates for the app [31].

I can’t wait to try this new game mode… 
Could I love it? 
Please don’t spoil it [70]! [71]

Before we wrap the listings up like a Christmas present, let us discuss the elements of another new mode named “Rocket Racing” that will begin with Season Zero [49] [51]. As previously mentioned, it is quite understandable why some fans of the Skylanders series may consider the racing mode in Skylanders: SuperChargers a smaller priority [74], but I hold no ill will towards those who got a thrill out of it. The same will apply to the Fortnite fighters who are hyped for the upcoming racing mode before it goes live [49]. I have a feeling that the new mode will be compared to the likes of Disney Speedstorm and Rocket League [10] [60] [81]. Aside from Fortnite Festival providing two musical artist endorsements [14] [21] [71], I suppose that there might be endorsements of real-life racers in Fortnite: Rocket Racers…or possibly the return of Sonic the Hedgehog in his racing car known as the “Speed Star” from Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing [62]. Am I just giving the executives ideas for new crossovers? The financial stability of Fortnite appears to have increased for some new game modes [51], which can prove to outsiders that there is more to it than so many crossover battles, but I digress as there might as well be more crossovers in these new modes. 

You do not suppose that there might be a collaboration with Barbie in the first season of Fortnite: Rocket Racing [2] [3], no? That would result in the quirkiness of the crossover between Barbie and Stumble Guys and the focus on a stylish pink vehicle to steer in Forza Horizon 5 [80]. [49]

It is bizarre how three intellectual properties that do not have a lot in common and two celebrity guest appearances have been featured at the beginning of a new chapter of Fortnite. Fittingly, each of them has been elected for both familiar and fresh fun within genres, including:

• Peter Griffin and Solid Snake in another battle royale [20] [54]
• A tribe of LEGO figures in the open-world survival adventure [7] [38] [55]
• The Weeknd and Eminem promoting Fortnite Festival [19] [14] [21] [25] [47] [71]

Personally, I think there ought to be more logical crossovers throughout the fifth chapter, such as a second one with Lara Croft from the Tomb Raider franchise featuring her in her outfit from Tomb Raider Legend for the next season of Fortnite: Battle Royale [84]. Perhaps some reasonable crossovers in the new modes can include Marvel’s Avengers in LEGO Fortnite and Sonic the Hedgehog in Rocket Racing [39] [62] [63]. Outside of fighting and fun in Fortnite, there is hype for Grand Theft Auto VI beginning a new chapter of the edgy, law-breaking havoc, most notably with a new female protagonist in 2025 [6] [61]. In the meantime, if you fancy cosplaying as characters in Christmas-themed equivalents of their outfits this year [36], by all means, go right ahead. Have a festive Christmas break after a harmonious Hanukkah, Fortnite fighters [28] [58] [85]!

Some might hope to soar in Spyro 4 and others may wish to experience another crossover in Fortnite that does not seem so forced [42]. Rumour has it that the Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles will join the party later this month before Christmas [24]. Perhaps the Save The World mode can finally get a crossover at some point in 2024 [18] [78]. During the beginning of the fifth chapter, let us continue to be kind to one another within the Christmas spirit [57], whether we have been nice enough to earn a holiday update for Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration…or naughty enough to wreak havoc in the holiday event in Crash Team Rumble featuring the cast in icing palettes [8] [53]. [38]

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Donkey Kong Will Join The Lego Adventurers Outside Of The Switch

Who landed on a DK space [18]? For quite some time, especially during the release and marketing of The Super Mario Bros. Movie [2] [35], I wondered if there will be a new Super Mario game released this year, whether it would be an enhanced remake of Super Princess Peach [20], Princess Daisy’s own game co-starring Waluigi, Mario and Luigi teaching Italian or an official 40^th-anniversary celebration of the Famicom port of Donkey Kong exclusively in Japan [20] [27] [42] [43]. I have a feeling that either a new instalment, the fifth wave of downloadable content for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or both will be revealed in this year’s Nintendo Mini Direct [16] [30] [48] [49]. In the meantime, LEGO fans and Nintendo nerds are informed that new expansion sets for the series that started with Mario in the shape of SpongeBob SquarePants will star Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, Funky Kong and Cranky Kong [6] [7] [12] [44]. This was first revealed with Donkey Kong during this year’s Mario Day [3]. Surely, 2023 has been recycling 2022 so far to yours truly [36] [37] [38] [39], but I can sense some small form of proactivity as we look at the imminent LEGO Super Mario expansion sets that follow a delightfully cool Donkey Kong theme [11]. 

Here he is! LEGO Donkey Kong! [10]

Firstly, Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong are included in their treehouse from the Donkey Kong Country series [7] [10] [12] [26]. Their fully built LEGO forms are vibrant and nicely detailed [6], just like the LEGO counterparts of many other Super Mario characters, including Bowser, King Boo, Toad and Toadette [13] [41] [47]. As demonstrated in a teaser back in March, LEGO Donkey Kong can be an ally whose back can be ridden on by LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi, or LEGO Peach, making him an engaging add-on [3]. Other interactions include giving the loveable ape a banana after retrieving it from a palm tree and making some percussion with bongos as a possible reference to Donkey Konga [10] [28]. Remember those bongos that you could connect to your Nintendo GameCube back in the day [32]? And we all know how much Donkey Kong loves bananas, don’t we? The treehouse also provides a little luxury with a hammock, a television set that can be built and a radio. If there would also be a LEGO Wario as part of a fourth starter course alongside these LEGO Donkey Kong expansion sets [48] [49], he would still have the money-hunger of Eugene Krabs [24]. Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong look cuter, calmer, and quirkier too. They are the first members of the LEGO DK crew [5] [34].

Too bad these Kongs will not be voiced by Seth Rogan and Fred Armisen [35]. [7] [12]

“Time to play, DK!” [3]

Diddy Kong and Funky Kong will be featured in their set based on a mine cart track [7] [8] [12]. The cart and the tracks look like a fun new challenge, quite like the moment when Sonic the Hedgehog goes for a ride in a mine cart in Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode 1 [23]. There is also an airplane but let us not pretend that it is like a shooting star unless you could really use a wish right now as it is simply a shop with three balloons [4] [7] [8] [12] [45] [46]. Monty Mole is part of the set as a foe and Snaggles would quite obviously be an obstacle [8], being nothing like a Baby Shark toy [25]. Just like at Donkey and Cranky’s treehouse, there are a bunch of bananas to snack on [8] [10]. And yes, I mean in terms of interactivity from LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi or LEGO Peach in LEGO DK’s back and NOT swallowing any small parts [3]! Why would I recommend that?! Aside from how vibrant and colourful they look in highly convincing sculpts alongside Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong’s LEGO forms [6], I guess Diddy Kong, Funky Kong and another member of the DK crew could be the next racers in the fifth or sixth wave in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass [16] [30] [48] [49].

The upcoming sets appear to be varied, depending on the characters’ ambitions, which elevates the appeal for young consumers who have enjoyed the first few adventures with any of the starter courses [8] [9] [10] [11]. [7] [12]

Funky Kong is one cool Kong. If he ought to be one of the next racers in the fifth or sixth wave of new courses for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe [16] [30], I bet one of them can be inspired by Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze to fit the moment of making him, Diddy Kong, and another member of the DK crew playable [21]. [7] [12]

Dixie Kong’s Jungle Jam expansion set provides some more girl power aside from LEGO Peach’s introduction last year [7] [9] [12] [47]. The set is basically a stage for a jungle concert [7] [9] [12]. LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi, or LEGO Peach can be placed at the centre of the stage and jam along with Dixie Kong and Squawks who can be the band’s lead singer with a buildable microphone unless that honour would go to Dixie or any of the three interactive adventurers. I especially adore how Dixie’s blonde ponytail and her earrings look in her LEGO form [6]. The stage can be nicely decorated with a streamer of lights and a pink flower at each side of the steps [7] [9] [12]. Lastly, let us not forget about Rambi who can also be ridden on by LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi or LEGO Peach as he charges into rocks as another unique form of interactivity [14]. As much as I believe Pauline will start dating Giuseppe from The Super Mario Bros. Movie [34], I believe the upcoming LEGO Donkey Kong sets can expand the LEGO Super Mario universe in a rather enlightening way, especially if the consumer is a big fan of the Donkey Kong series [6] [7] [12]. Moreover, there are all now available to pre-order [8] [9] [10].

Rock on, Dixie Kong!  [7] [12]

LEGO Rambi’s collaboration might as well be the LEGO equivalent of steering the Rambi Rider in Mario Kart DS [17]. [14]

Overall, the upcoming expansion sets based on Donkey Kong and a few other members of the DK crew are sure to lead MarioBob PlumberPants, his brother and his peachy princess to some artistically constructed wildness [11] [41] [44] [47]. Aside from that, I believe that The Super Mario Bros. Movie deserves a sequel consisting of references to the other spin-off series [2], such as Luigi’s Mansion, Donkey Kong Country and Mario Party [15] [18] [21] [50] [51], along with fleshed out interpretations of some other Super Mario characters, such as Princess Daisy (which can make up for her live-action portrayal being rather unconvincing back in 1993 [32]), Yoshi, Bowser Jr. (who could be Shadow Mario from Super Mario Sunshine at first [19]), Wario and Waluigi. I also believe that Pixar could produce a sequel to Brave that consists of a few notable improvements in terms of storytelling and even better animation up to the technical standards and beauty of Toy Story 4 [1] [22] [38], as unlikely as that sounds. Speaking of toys and the number four, I hope my fourth LEGO Super Mario article has levelled up for hype for Donkey Kong and his crew in their imminent LEGO forms that will be available with different playsets this August after we celebrate the 40^thanniversary of Mario Bros. as loyal Nintendo nerds [8] [9] [10] [11] [29].

Mini Mario, Mini Luigi, Mini Peach, Mini Donkey Kong and Mini Diddy Kong be like, “Who are the toys now?” [31]. [10]

References

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9. LEGO. (2023). Dixie Kong’s Jungle Jam Expansion Set. Available: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/product/dixie-kong-s-jungle-jam-expansion-set-71421. Last accessed 28th Apr 2023.
10. LEGO. (2023). Donkey Kong’s Tree House Expansion Set. Available: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/product/donkey-kong-s-tree-house-expansion-set-71424. Last accessed 28th Apr 2023.
11. LEGO. (2023). Go wild with Donkey Kong™. Available: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/themes/super-mario/donkey-kong. Last accessed 28th Apr 2023.
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14. LEGO. (2023). Rambi the Rhino Expansion Set. Available: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/product/rambi-the-rhino-expansion-set-71420. Last accessed 28th Apr 2023.
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46. Williams, L. (2021). MordeTwi – A Wish That Could Be Used Right Now. Available:http://laurawritesaboutcartoons.blogspot.com/2021/08/can-we-pretend-that-mordetwi-is-like-shooting-stars.html. Last accessed 28th Apr 2023.
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Princess Peach Will Become A Lego Adventurer Outside The Switch

For the third year in a row, there shall be an interactive star of a line of Super Mario LEGO sets, especially a new starter course [7] [15]. The sets may have been leaked just before the 10th of March and eventually announced on that day [24], but I wanted to wait until the release of the trailer before expressing my thoughts on them. Coincidentally enough, the release of the trailer happened to be on the day the My Little Pony: Tell Your Tale series was uploaded onto YouTube and only a day before the theatrical release of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in cinemas [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [28]. The biggest highlight of this announcement is the interactive toy based on the princess of Mushroom Kingdom [7] [15]. Peachy! It has been about a year since a certain Player Two “otherwise known as “Luigi S. PlumberPants” landed in the LEGO scene within the second starter course that was later followed by a line of sets based on a daring ghost hunt in his mansion [16] [18] [39]. Later this year, the loveable princess in pink who bakes great cake will be Player Three [7] [15] [21]. One of my wishes from early 2020 and last year came true [39] [40]!

My homegirl! I am so proud of her! [7] [15]

The mould of the princess’ head is adorably convincing [7] [15] [24]. I know this sounds quite corny, but it is pretty fitting how her fringe resembles the yellow heart emoji on iOS. Just like the interactive figures based on Mario and Luigi [16] [39] [40], her eyes are little screens that display emotions, which once again look highly expressive [7] [15]. It is cute how she can snack on an apple, causing an image of it to appear on her chest. There are some exceptional details of her attire, including two lovely shades of pink for the dress and a nicely designed crown on the top of her head. Her arms may be awkwardly short, but there are still gloved to further increased accuracy. And yes, she can always stomp on a coin block to get coins [40]. There is also a costume for the figure based on her cat suit from Super Mario 3D World [7] [21] [15]. Looking closely at her interaction with MarioBob PlumberPants, the screens on their chests seem to indicate the use of a familiar yellow cape [7] [15] [22]. Sick and tired of Peach always being the damsel-in-distress [20] [21]? Go ahead and let her play along with any of the Mario brothers or in a completely independent manner [22] [23]. Besides, her interactivity can appeal to female LEGO builders.

The quote “LEGO Peach time!” from the lovely new toy says it all. I guess she would like to bake an apple pie sometime. [7] [15]

Meow! [7] [15]

There are some exciting expansion sets aside from the third starter course with a new character [7] [15]. The prime playset of the new wave is her iconic castle. I believe that playing with the LEGO interpretation of the castle is sure to be a brief reminder of roaming through a red castle villa in Go Vacation [13] [14]. Through the two castle doors, there is a red and gold throne to place the Peach figure on [7] [15]. I just love how the stained-glass window is included, even though it looks like a non-removable sticker at a certain angle, but I wonder if there will be a twenty-second star to receive [20] [36] [37]. Well, I guess that would be up to the consumer during playtime. In the third starting course, there is a platform that Peach can swing on [7] [15]. There is also a gift house for any of the two Yoshis and a tower of Cat Peach to climb on. Even though the new expansion sets that were convincingly based on the main Super Mario games would be sold separately, the third starter course in the series on its own would be a great start of a third wave that brings on a little female empowerment.

Just listen to the castle theme tune from Super Mario 64 playing in the background [18]. It sure pumps up the hype. [7] [15]

“Hello again, Yoshi!” [7] [15]

What other characters are there in the new starter course and expansion sets? The noble Yellow Toad and the sweet little Toadette are featured in the trailer for the new wave, perhaps as sidekicks for the princess, despite no technical interactivity [7] [15]. One of them could be a hostage held in the cat tower for her to rescue as Cat Peach. The new major antagonists to confront are Lemmy Koopa, Ludwig Von Koopa and the leader of the Hammer Bros. army. Uh oh! According to the trailer, it is likely that Bowser could take over Peach’s castle at any minute! Other enemies in the forthcoming line include a Spike, a Cat Goomba, a Monty Mole and a Magikoopa. These new foes come in separate playsets as the Hammer Bros. leader can fall off a tall platform with enough simple action taken by any of the interactive figures and the Magikoopa can be knocked off his broomstick. Luckily, there shall not be any rocks for a Monty Mole to throw near Yoshi’s gift house [20]. With some new allies to trust and a new flock of foes to fight, a playful kind of empowerment awaits one peachy princess and perhaps the two plumbers who have risked their lives for her many times [7] [15] [39] [40]. 

Nice try, LEGO Bowser, but LEGO Peach will not be scared of you! Have you learned nothing from the end of Super Princess Peach [23]? [7] [15]

I think Unikitty from the two main LEGO movies will be a great teammate for the princess in her LEGO form [34] [35]. It sure takes two Barbies to tango in style these days [2] [3], but I guess it may take a third player to tackle some new enemies in another series of blind bags [33]. [7] [15]

With my manicure inspired by Elsa’s spring dress in Frozen Fever from 2015 brought back [6] [38], I am delighted to see one of my favourite Super Mario characters being welcomed to the line of LEGO playsets based on the franchise after racing as my Mii in Mario Kart Tour [7] [15] [19]. The third wave starring Princess Peach is sure to expand on the series’ ambition even further later this year. I can tell plenty of Nintendo nerds and LEGO lovers out there are as excited for the new starter course and expansion sets as some of our animal crossers are during another sakura season in Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp [1] [17] [25]. I also wonder when there will be the release of new Littlest Pet Shop toys later this year too. Surely, purchasing one of the pets from the third wave of the Lucky Pets line of the sixth generation of the Littlest Pet Shop franchise could have led to beginning a new career as an LPSTuber [26], but I doubt that I can compete with far more experienced LPSTubers [4] [5]. And yes, I will see Sonic the Hedgehog 2 at the cinema [27] [28]. As for princesses on adventures [7] [15], I guess I ought to regally prepare for Tiara Diaries soon [31]. How about some ASMR with LEGO plastic tonight [29]?

Thank you, MarioBob PlumberPants…and our princess is in the right castle dome [32]. [7] [15]

References

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34. The LEGO Movie, dir. by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Warner Bros. Pictures, 2014).
35. The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part, dir. by Mike Mitchell (Warner Bros. Pictures, 2019).
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38. Williams, L. (2020). Laura’s Manicure Compilation. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCXHVYH4844. Last accessed 8th Apr 2022.
39. Williams, L. (2021). Luigi Will Become A Lego Adventurer Outside The Switch. Available:https://laurasambitiouswriting.wordpress.com/2021/04/21/lego-luigi/. Last accessed 8th Apr 2022.
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Luigi Will Become A Lego Adventurer Outside The Switch

After the success and acclaim of our favourite red-hatted plumber from Nintendo as a remarkable LEGO product in 2020 [7] [24] [25], it has been announced that our favourite green-hatted plumber will be the next adventurer outside of the Nintendo Switch [5] [9] [16] [17]. Throughout the early 2020s so far, several Lego Super Mario sets were released, including Toad and Toadette in their Treasure Hunt set and Bowser in his lava-infested castle [7] [22]. Finally, we get to see the forthcoming second starter course starring Luigi that is currently available for pre-ordering before it will be officially released this Summer [5] [9] [16] [17]. It is exciting how such a stimulating combination of two childhood icons is yet to be enhanced with a highly promising addition, especially if it will be a rehash of the series’ most notable product [24]. With a second starter course coming soon, there can be a second player for a game of Lego Mario Bros. real soon. I think my nickname for Luigi as an interactive Lego figure will be “Luigi S. Plumberpants” as a reference to how Spongebob Squarepants has a cousin named “Stanley S. Squarepants” [2], although the two plumbers are brothers and how much alike the two sponges are, just like how Mario and Luigi are very much alike.

Design director’s cameo, activate! [5] [9] [16] [17]

The Lego Luigi’s features are highly similar to Lego Mario’s, which makes him a very notable aspect of the starter course shown in the trailer [5] [9] [16] [17]. The most notable differences are that his moustache is shorter to suit the way his mouth is smaller and that his nose is very slightly narrower. His eyebrows made him look somewhat more anxious, which matches the fact that Luigi is a little less brave than Mario, despite how he always has the same nobility. I find it a little strange how Luigi S. Plumberpants would hit coin blocks with his feet instead of his hands, but at least there is still a lot of interaction going on in the trailer, making him just as fun to play with as Lego Mario. Besides, both Plumberpants brothers’ arms are too stubby [24]! Lego Luigi can also begin a time limit, setting up a challenge to complete a randomly arranged course before the time runs out. The same excellent qualities and amount of effort put into the Lego Luigi figure ought to apply to a Lego Princess Peach figure to bring out Super Mario 3D World vibes sometime in 2022 [14]. But for the second half of 2021, Lego Luigi appears to start a second level.

You can tell that the same amount of effort put into Lego Mario has been put into Lego Luigi by the vibrant graphics and details in the liquid-crystal display screens, along with highly convincing sounds based on what can be heard in a level of any of the main games. [5] [9] [16] [17]

Wait! There’s more?! [5] [9] [16] [17]

A few other characters that are part of Lego Luigi’s starter course include the adorable Pink Yoshi and the rather tyrannical Boom Boom who debuted in Super Mario Bros. 3 [19]. Speaking of adorable, I love how an image of Pink Yoshi appears in Lego Luigi’s chest before he cheerfully greets him. The image is seen remaining in the tiny screen of his chest as he lands on a Bone Goomba, which appears to be the Lego equivalent of riding on a Yoshi in New Super Mario Bros. Wii [11]. The same would apply to Lego Mario and Green Yoshi [7] [24]. Looks like Boom Boom will be the second boss as Bowser Jr. was the first boss against Lego Mario. As for the Bone Goomba, he was previously seen in the second wave of the Character Pack series [22]. What has been revealed as part of Lego Luigi’s starter course is basically a rehash of Lego Mario’s starter course that featured him, a regular Lego Goomba and Bowser Jr. without a spiky shell [22] [24], but the difference is that Lego Luigi’s course comes with a Lego Yoshi figure [5] [9] [16] [17]. Wait until Lego Luigi faces the Lego King Boo in his haunted yard [23]!

“Hello there, Pink Yoshi!” [5] [9] [16] [17]

It is quite satisfying to be see a Plumberpants brother stomp on a spinless shell [24]. [5] [9] [16] [17]

Since the Lego Luigi figure appears to be exceptionally made, I believe we ought to expect new suits for him much later this year, including:

• Fire Luigi [11]
• Propeller Luigi [11]
• Penguin Luigi [11]
• Tanooki Luigi [14]
• Cat Luigi [14]
• Builder Luigi [20]

The reason for expecting these additions would be because of the variety of suits from the Power-Up Packs that can be put on Lego Mario to increase the feeling of playing a modern Super Mario game that is not on a console in this new decade [4] [6] [22]. Of course, the Cat costume for Lego Luigi would need to be green, just like in Super Mario 3D World [14]. The same should apply to his fire outfit, propeller suit and penguin costume to match the attires seen in New Super Mario Bros. Wii [11]. It sure is exciting to think about how the fun fusion of Lego and Super Mario will be enriched with Luigi vibes, quite like how many establishments celebrated Luigi’s legacy throughout the majority of 2013 [22]. Aside from some Power-Up Packs for Luigi S. Plumberpants, we can also expect Lego versions of more enemies, such as any of the Shy Guys with differently coloured robes from the Download Play mode of Mario Kart DS [10].

Surely Lego Luigi will also be able to interact with certain aspects of the sets that were released back in January [3], including the Poison Mushroom [6]. [5] [9] [16] [17]

This starter course seems like the start of a new wave that is yet to be expanded with more Power-Up Packs and such [4] [6] [22]. [5] [9] [16] [17]

After some sales of a new colour for the Nintendo Switch Lite that is a rather familiar shade of indigo this May [8] [12] [13] [21], Luigi S. Plumberpants and his starter course will be released at the beginning of August [5] [9] [16] [17]. During the second half of 2021, our young Nintendo nerds and LEGO lovers are sure to live it up with him and Mariobob Plumberpants while some old school toy collectors still follow their passions in repainting some other kinds of playsets [1] [3] [4] [6] [7]. I still hope that there will be an adorable Lego Princess Peach toy after the acclaim of Lego Luigi, even though Lego Toad would probably tell any of the Plumberpants brothers that she is in another Lego castle [15] [22] [24]. It will not be long until I drift off to a peaceful slumber as I listen to some incredible ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) from another Lego figure wearing a Player 1 shirt [18]. In the meantime, Lego Luigi might as well be referred to be Player 2 and cause destruction at the Krusty Koopa before he enhances the legacy of the Super Mario sets that are a great alternative to playing any of the main Mario games to greatly reduce screen time [24].

Who has a younger brother known as Luigi? Mariobob Plumberpants! [5] [9] [16] [17]

References

1. Donegan, K. (2021). Polly Pocket Repaint #5 | Mermaid Cove Hidden Hideouts. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJFsHhenp5A. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
2. Encyclopedia SpongeBobia. (2015). Stanley S. SquarePants (character). Available: https://spongebob.fandom.com/wiki/Stanley_S._SquarePants_(character). Last accessed 21st Apr 2021.
3. IGN. (2021). LEGO Super Mario – Official Master Your Adventure Maker Set Trailer. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voBllrmHbUE. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
4. IGN. (2020). LEGO Super Mario – Official Power-Up Packs Trailer. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmhGcmvLPlI. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
5. LEGO. (2021). LEGO Super Mario | Introducing LEGO Adventures with Luigi Starter Course. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tao6Nnwwa5w. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
6. LEGO. (2020). LEGO Super Mario – January 2021 Release Trailer. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_L0Z8zfuICU. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
7. Nintendo. (2020). 8 NEW LEGO Super Mario Expansion Sets!. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWd_byIdDQ4. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
8. Nintendo. (2021). Game Boy Advance. Available: https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Corporate/Nintendo-History/Game-Boy-Advance/Game-Boy-Advance-627139.html. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
9. Nintendo. (2021). Introducing LEGO Super Mario Adventures with Luigi Starter Course. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdiQH9r1LzI. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
10. Nintendo. (2005). Mario Kart DS. Nintendo DS. Kyoto, Japan.
11. Nintendo. (2009). New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Nintendo Wii. Kyoto, Japan.
12. Nintendo. (2021). Nintendo GameCube. Available: https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Corporate/Nintendo-History/Nintendo-GameCube/Nintendo-GameCube-627129.html. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
13. Nintendo. (2021). Nintendo Switch Lite – Blue. Available: https://www.nintendo.com/switch/buy-now/.html/#nintendo-switch-lite-blue. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
14. Nintendo. (2013). Super Mario 3D World. Nintendo Wii U. Kyoto, Japan.
15. Nintendo. (1985). Super Mario Bros. Nintendo Entertainment System. Kyoto, Japan.
16. NintendoAmerica. (2021). Available: https://twitter.com/NintendoAmerica/status/1384461911383752706. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
17. NintendoUK. (2021). Available: https://twitter.com/NintendoUK/status/1384462091386490881. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
18. Plastic Adventure ASMR. (2020). Time To Sleep.. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZxAOWONOBE. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
19. Super Mario Wiki. (2013). Boom Boom. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Boom_Boom. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
20. Super Mario Wiki. (2015). Gallery:Builder Mario. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Gallery:Builder_Mario. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
21. Super Mario Wiki. (2007). Game Boy Advance. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Game_Boy_Advance#System_gallery. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
22. Super Mario Wiki. (2020). LEGO Super Mario. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/LEGO_Super_Mario. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
23. Super Mario Wiki. (2013). Year of Luigi. Available: https://www.mariowiki.com/Year_of_Luigi. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
24. Williams, L. (2020). Mario Will Become A Lego Adventurer Outside The Switch. Available: https://laurasambitiouswriting.wordpress.com/2020/03/13/lego-mario/. Last accessed 20th Apr 2021.
25. Williams, L. (2020). Some More Of Polly Pocket’s Pint-Sized Passions. Available: https://laurasambitiouswriting.wordpress.com/2020/11/19/polly-pocket-history-2/. Last accessed 21st Apr 2021.

Some More Of Polly Pocket’s Pint-Sized Passions

It has been over a year since a collaboration with Hot Topic was established [79] [83], along with a special recreation of a certain birthday party to celebrate Polly Pocket’s 30^th anniversary [34] [42]. Who would have thought there would be a Polly Pocket Funko Pop! figure available for pre-ordering in late 2020? Look how convincing its design is [27] [28] [53]! I am quite infatuated with it, despite how I grew with a later generation instead of the arguably most iconic one from 1989 to 1997 [50]. Being a 2000s kid who loved playing online games on her website when EverythingGirl.com was still around [45] [87] [94], I just could not resist expanding on our road trip throughout the different eras of her legacy in a pink limousine [54]. After reading the paperback edition of a charming and engaging story about two mice on a rather daring journey in Birmingham titled “The Incredible Journey and Adventures of William and Klara Churchmouse” [86], I have decided to expand on our previous journey for the pint-sized passions of Polly Kingston Pocket and her Polly pals while plenty of LEGO lovers and Nintendo nerds out there are thrilled about the second series of LEGO sets starring Mariobob Plumberpants being released at the beginning of 2021 [33] [37] [38] [91].

Here is the current Polly Pocket logo. So much has changed, huh? Once again, we shall strut through Polly’s history, but somewhat differently this time. [38]

Let us further elaborate on the creativity and ambitions of what seemed like the golden era of the pint-sized cutie pie that started back in 1989 [50] [94]. Having her or a friend of hers, such as Tiny Tina riding on a pen pal on the top of a pencil seemed like a quirky trend at primary school [66]. Tina sure was adorable with her blonde hair in pigtails [63]. How Polly even went to a small and detailed interpretation of Paris was magnifique [64] [65]! Even though the vintage dolls that were almost an inch tall were stuck to circular bases, one compact that was set in a stable for horses featured her with moveable legs for securely placing her onto a horse back in 1996 [44] [46]. The same features applied to an oval-shaped compact that was pale pink [20]. The first era of the Polly Pocket franchise had a much more masculine counterpart targeted at young boys named “Mighty Max” that lasted from 1992 to 1996 [89]. The concept of a tiny world inside of a small compact is simply charming, delightful and imaginative, despite not being recommended for young ones under the age of three years old [83].

Giddy up as soon as she is fitted onto your back, Polly pony! [20]

The classic Polly Pocket sets were amazing, oui? Let us continue s’il vous plaît. [64]

During the pint-sized playmate’s original run, there was a spin-off line known as “Lucy Locket”. Its playsets would be basically described as jumbo-sized versions of some of the compacts [18] [19] [23] [24] [77], which is not a bad idea, but I believe that it made her name quite misleading. Heck, Polly Pocket was even featured in lockets while Lucy never had a chance to fit in one in honour of her surname [67]. However, Lucy still had some credibility of her own, despite not being as iconic as Polly. She had actual doll hair, blue eyes, a tiny nose, much more detailed hands and a pretty smile [18] [19], as well as a British accent in that advert she appeared in back in 1995 [15]. She even had extra pairs of shoes sculpted with a circular platform for standing up [18] [19]. It can be theorised that how Lucy was a bigger doll with brushable hair during her sales in the ‘90s was the inspiration for the 3 ¾ inch dolls from Mattel in the 2000s [90] [94], especially the ones that had brushable hair instead of plastic hair. After all, a Polly would fit into Lucy’s pocket at the time of the jumbo-sized spin-off’s sales [18] [19].

It would be nice if Lucy Locket could make a grand return in the current generation of Polly Pocket at some point next year or two [19]. The only difference can be that she will be the same size as the purple-streaked Polly of today to fit in a locket that can a consumer can wear [46] [59], even though that would sacrifice her individuality from the ‘90s era [90]. [18]

Besides, Bluebird was a British toy company and it made sense for Lucy to have a British accent during the sales of the sister line [88]. [15]

As Lucy Locket faded into obscurity, Polly Pocket stepped up her game in the late 1990s and the early 2000s [94]. Some consumers might have out the slightly taller dolls that came with the later compact sets to be somewhat uncanny [51], but at least the details of the new faces looked quite nice [49] [94]. Some dolls were even taller with longer legs [80]. A few compacts were simply recreations of older compacts, including the hot pink compact that resembled a seashell and once again featured Polly as a bridesmaid [49]. As for the bigger dolls known as “Fashion Polly” [83], they were sure to stay fabulous in any rubber clothing [51], whether they had plastic hair or actual doll hair [11] [12] [13] [14] [40]. As I still stand by the highly likely theory of Fashion Polly being partially inspired by Lucy Locket, I honestly think some customers would have preferred her fabric clothes over Polly’s rubber clothes [16] [18] [19] [94]. I know Lucy was the bigger doll first [15] [23] [24], but there was a missed opportunity to reimagine her in Polly’s original size for a new line of lockets. The taller Polly’s original name was eventually retired [39], along with the compact playsets in about 2003 [52], leading to what seemed like another generation for the pint-sized playmate and her pals.

Anyone up for some wedding cake after this extra trip through Polly’s history? [48]

Polly has had so many different logos throughout the years [39]. For example, look at the two different Fashion Polly logos on these plastic backpacks. [31]

Let us also take a look at some more hip aspects of the generation I remember from my childhood [77]. You know, the times when I was playing Petz 5 on my family’s old computer [7] [16]. I will never forget how I dyed and styled Polly’s hair in one of her online games [30]. However, I still recall how slightly uncomfortable the progress of putting the rubber clothes on the dolls was when I tried it as a child [83] [94]. Nevertheless, there were some signs of creativity in these toy lines, such as the top floor of a purple jumbo jet consisting of a catwalk [69]. The Pop ‘N’ Swap line sure had a crazy but fun concept back in 2009 [22] [77]. A Burger King toy line for Polly was established with a Marvel toy line in about the same year, but the doll that made with a fluffy hair bobble did not have any articulation whatsoever [26]. On fanmade terms, some dolls within the main toy lines even sang their song all day along in Pollyville [9] [70]. As we are going through every generation of Polly Pocket once again, I have the song that was featured in the official trailer for The Sims 2 in my head [25].

All hail the happiest character of my childhood [94]! [67]

The fountain-like waterfall would have to be one of my favourite playsets in the 2000s generation [67]. Look how beautiful it is! [76]

Despite how the early and mid-2010s era seemed to be the least successful one with plastic clothes and mixed reception [90] [94], I admire specific aspects from its lines, quite similar to how I can see the redeeming qualities of the early 2010s era of Bratz [93], such as the Bratz True Hope line that was designed to honour young cancer patients [1] [5] [10]. The cutants looked so cool and cute [75]! Outside of some premises that were recycled from the 2000s era [35] [77] [82], the idea of a party that can be stuck into a wall sure was outside the box back in 2012 [81]. The 3D incarnation of Polly even had a pen pal from Brazil [56], along with the same positivity and cheerfulness her previous incarnation had [57] [58] [68] [94]. I really like the look of her temporality dyed hair in another 3D webisode titled “Frankenbubble” as it is a reference to the Race ‘N’ Splash playset [55] [76]. There could have been some ways to help the early 2010s era sell better, such as a grandly designed playset associated with a 25^th-anniversary celebration. Nonetheless, you could say that the closure of the franchise in 2015 was a sign of the last era not selling as well as the previous ones did [90].

Although it was quite strangely refreshing how the dolls after the mid and late 2000s era had bigger heads and feet [6] [90], I still stand by my theory on how this Polly Pocket would have appealed more to Japanese audiences back in the early 2010s before her era was eventually discontinued in North America [90] [94]. [67]

Yes, the Polly Pockets from the early and mid-2010s were quite cute [6] [94], but the final result of its mixed reception was quite similar to how the lines of Bratz from 2013 to 2016 did not seem sell as well as the ones from the mid-2000s [93], leading to the four main Bratz and one of the Bratz Boyz being reduced to only one special collector’s edition line in 2018 [2] [3] [4]. [6]

Some of us have had a bone to pick with the current generation of Polly Pocket that began in 2018 [43] [46] [83]. The Hidden Hideout playsets did quite a better job at bringing back the formula from the ‘90s than the lockets did [21]. However, the Shopkins Lil Secrets Secret Lock playsets would be much more preferred by some toy collectors when it comes to regaining the same feeling of playing with a ‘90s compact due to the designs of the shoppies being taller versions of the vintage Polly Pocket dolls [47] [48]. Strangely enough, the current animation incarnation of Polly has two brothers [60] [61]. Aside from that, I find how Polly and her two loyal companions can shrink down in size after she exclaims, “Tiny Power!” as it is one aspect of the current aniamted series’ individuality and a legitimate reference to how she comes to two sizes like how she did in the late 1990s and early 2000s in the promotional web series [59] [90] [94]. As previously stated, I am delighted that young children are cherishing the current generation of the pint-sized sweetheart in this day and age [41] [94]. Could there be a new compact playset set in a video game shop as an expansion on the lockets that are shaped like Game Boys in 2021 [36] [85]?

Surely the Pocket Locket toy that was adapted from the animated series was a way to feel like part of its premise [94], but I think there can be more locket playsets that come with a long and thick string at some point in 2021, just like the vintage ones in the ‘90s [67] [94]. [62]

Here is a prime example in honour of female gamers. And speaking of 2021, that year will be when the forthcoming Funko Pop! Polly Pocket figure will be released in memory of the vintage era in the early and mid-1990s [27] [94]. [84]

I hope you have had a blast during another voyage through Polly Pocket’s history, no matter which generation of the franchise is your favourite one [94]. Speaking of Polly Pocket, some of us will be looking forward to the release of a special ‘90s Polly Pocket-inspired compact playset based on Sailor Moon and possibly some other ones featuring the other Sailor Guardians in March 2021 [8] [29] [71] [72], along with the possibility of a certain Hello Kitty suitcase giving a fellow kitty’s heart a smile when it comes to finally being able to travel aboard again [73] [74]. As for Shopkins Lil’ Secrets [47] [48], I would love to see another series of the secret locks that features a book shop, an art supply shop, a sports shop and a video game shop to appeal to girls who are passionate about literature, art, sports or gaming. This is indeed similar to how I would be thrilled to witness another Pixel Stars Digital Dreamhouse that introduces a musician, a writer and a sportswoman [31] [78] [92]. Lastly, as for Polly Pocket, I will be more than interested to see what will be next for her in her current era of compacts and fashionable dolls, possibly including the return of Lucy Locket in a video game-themed playset.

I bet plenty of Sailor Moon fans would love to have this adorable thing in their hands! [8] [29]

As for Polly Pocket, I suppose there ought to be another recreation of the Partytime Surprise Keepsake Compact for celebrating her 35th anniversary in 2024 or her 40th anniversary in 2029 [34] [42]. Who knows? Cheerio, Polly pals! [42]

References

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