Build-A-Bear is adding to its extensive line ofPokémonplushes with a fan-favorite Pokémon that’s sure to make hearts soar, Riolu. Riolu is a Fighting-type Pokémon that eventually evolves into Lucario, the fan-favorite Fighting/Steel-type Pokémon. Riolu is known for its fighting spirit and its sensitivity to the auras of both Pokémon and people.Riolu only evolves into Lucario when it has a high friendshipwith players in the main series games, making it a perfect candidate for a Build-A-Bear collab.
On November 13,Build-A-Bearannounced Riolu as the latest in its line of Pokémon plushes.An online bundle on Build-A-Bear’s website currently includes the Riolu plush, a hoodie made just for the Pokémon plush, and a five-in-one sound chip that includes Riolu’s voicefrom thePokémonanime series. The bundle is currently on sale for $57, and is listed as an online exclusive. There’s currently no word on whether the Riolu plush will eventually come to Build-A-Bear retail locations.
The Roster Of Pokémon Build-A-Bears Continues
Build-A-Bear’s Pokémon Line Includes 20 Different Species
The Pokémon line from Build-A-Bear launched back in 2015 and has grown into an extensive collection of jumbo-sized Pokémon plushes. While the line initially featured perennial favorites like Pikachu and Eevee, it has since grown to include Pokémon like Mimikyu, Cubone, and Dragonite. The line stands out from other Pokémon plushes, including alife-size Lucario plushfrom 2022, thanks tothe optional clothing selections that come with every online bundle and the use of sound chipsto give the Pokémon an actual voice when their paw is squeezed.
In total, the Build-A-Bear line includes 20 different Pokémon species. Currently, the Build-A-Bear website is hosting a large sale, with almost all the available Pokémon plushes currently discounted. Not every Pokémon plush is in stock, and bothRiolu and the recently released Cubone plush are not included in the sale.However, the Build-A-Bear sale is still worth a look for those seeking out a perfect gift for a young (or old) Pokémon fan. Shoppers can also go to a physical Build-A-Bear location as they often have a limited selection of Pokémon plushes as well, albeit without the sound chip and outfits.
Our Take: Worth Adding To The Collection?
Fun To Hug, But Hard To Display
Build-A-Bear is known for its high-quality plushes and itsPokémonline is no exception. However, the plushes tend to be a touch more expensive than otherPokémonplushes out there, and they have a limited selection compared to thePokémonlines available at the Pokémon Center and elsewhere.The Build-A-Bear plushes are also much larger than other Pokémon plushes out there,which means they’re not really great for displaying on bookshelves but are perfect for holding and hugging. My kids love their Build-A-Bear Pokémon plushes, but there are definitely cheaper options out there for cost-consciousPokémonfans.
