Retail ready for Angry Birds boom

The most popular iPhone game of all time is flocking from handhelds to the High Street.

And retailers are making the most of a merchandise boom for Angry Birds.

Plush toys and mobile phone cases have just hit shelves – and board games, clothing and stationery are on the way, developer Rovio told MCV.

The studio revealed it may even release a boxed console game.

We have licensing agents in North America and Europe going through various opportunities,” Rovio spokesperson Ville Heijari told MCV.

We want to address fans of all ages with fun and inspiring Angry Birds merchandise – solid products that will contribute to building a strong brand.”

The top-selling iPhone game is also due for release on Xbox 360 and PS3 later this year. It is currently available for Apple and Android mobile devices, plus PSP Minis.

Heijari added: The full console games will be available later in 2011. We’re looking at digital distribution as our main channel at the moment, but have not ruled out boxed games.”

With GAME and HMV already stocking products such as iPhone cases and plush toys, Rovio is now looking to add a retail specialist to its team in Finland.

GAME’s PR boss Neil Ashurst added: Angry Birds is one of the key titles that was core to the attention of gamers last year and has grown in such a way that there is a lot of opportunity for products around it and games on other platforms.

It will become like Harry Potter in terms of the enthusiasm around it.”