Skylanders amasses $500m in US

Activision Blizzard’s Skylanders has raised more than $500m in revenue in the US, the publisher has revealed.

Console and handheld title Skylanders Giants, sequel to Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventures, generated more than $195m in US sales since its release in October, although this includes sales of inclusive accessory packs and figures.

This means that just under half of the total revenue garnered from the franchise came from its latest title in just two months since release.

"Just a year ago, the concept of bringing toys to life in a virtual world was an untested play pattern that Activision and Toys For Bob believed in,” said Activision Publishing VP of product management Joshua Taub.

“Now the category has been established in the market and embraced by parents and kids everywhere. We’re humbled by the continued support and acclaim from parents, kids and critics alike, but more importantly, it’s gratifying to see kids excited about the adventures that await them both in the digital and physical worlds."

As well as games and toys, the franchise’s licensing program includes more than 120 licensees worldwide in areas such as plush, apparel, home décor, bed and bath, party goods and board games – with Activision’s ambition to turn the series into a billion dollar franchise similar to its success with Call of Duty.

Toy and video video hybrid Skylanders is developed by California studio Toys for Bob, which was bought by Activision in 2005, having previously worked with Crystal Dynamics.

As well as Skylanders, the developer has worked on titles such as Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam for the Wii, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and Disney’s Extreme Skate Adventure.