''Minecraft Earth'' Gets a Little More Physical Thanks to new NFC-enabled Minis

When the mobile-based Minecraft Earth was announced last year, it immediately attracted comparisons to Pokemon Go because of its use of virtual reality and activities that are based on location. It was quite different, as senior editor Jess Conditt can attest, because you didn''t have to leave the house to participate in the mining or building activities. Now, Mattel has added another game element to Minecraft Earth that Pokemon Go cannot boast of: NFC-enabled figurines.
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Gallery: Minecraft Earth minis | 14 Photos

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The Boost Mini figurines will retail for $5 each and will include various characters from the Minecraft franchise which includes Steve, Alex, creepers ducks, a cow and others. Each figure is adorable on its own. If you put it in contact with an NFC-capable device, special abilities will be available within Minecraft Earth for a specified time. The duration will be displayed on the timer. You''ll also get XP for signing up the mini in the game as a further incentive to collect them all (or borrow from friends).

This spring''s first batch includes 20 minis with 10 capabilities. Mattel also sells an accessory pouch that can be attached to your belt if you''re looking to take your Minecraft Earth game with you on the go.

If you''re not interested in the game in particular but still want some of that delicious Minecraft toy action, Mattel also announced a variety of brand new $3.50 blind box minis based to the classic Minecraft as well as larger 3.5-inch figures that tie into the forthcoming Minecraft Dungeons. The Redstone Monstrosity is especially fun since it''s scaled in proportion to those toys, measuring over six inches tall. The 3.5-inch figurines will cost $10, with the monster being priced at $25 when it''s launched in the fall.

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