FEATURE/Playmates Toys tops virtual pet craze with introduction of Nano babies, kitties and puppies

Business Wire, May 12, 1997

COSTA MESA--(BUSINESS WIRE FEATURES)--May 12, 1997--Get ready to Nano!

Playmates Toys brings Japan's "virtual pet" craze to the United States with its Nano line, electronic games that offer girls the opportunity to raise a baby, kitten or puppy. Nanos will hit retailers' shelves later this month at an estimated retail price of $14.99 to $19.99.

By promptly and properly responding to the Nano's beeps for attention and manipulating its game buttons, the character on the LCD display will "grow" from an infant to a child (or kitten to cat or puppy to dog) in 30 days. Although, neglecting the Nano ultimately makes it run away, the game's end.

Nanos can be taken along anywhere -- easily attaching to purses, backpacks, key chains and belt loops. Housed in brightly colored, oval-shaped covers, Nanos are the perfect accessory for 8- to 13-year-old girls.

Playmates is supporting the launch of its Nano line with an aggressive television advertising campaign that will break well in advance of its competition, including a prime-time blitz aimed towards pre-teen and teen-aged girls. Consumers can obtain information about the Nano line by visiting Playmates' Web site (www.playmatestoys.com).

Playmates Toys is a leading marketer of many of America's best-selling toys, action figures and dolls, and is acclaimed throughout the industry for its sculpting, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Its core brands include the classic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; "Star Trek" action figures, accessories and collectibles; and the Waterbabies and Baby So Beautiful lines of dolls.

Its Playmates Games division develops and markets skill and action games, board games and puzzles.

CONTACT: Golin/Harris, Los Angeles

Karen Trachtenberg/Jennifer Baker-Asiddao, 213/623-4200