The core of blind box series lies in "randomness" and "collectible attributes". Toys suitable for blind box packaging typically feature strong IP value, collectible worth, and design extensibility. Here’s a detailed classification and analysis of their characteristics.
Art toys and designer figures are ideal for blind box releases.
Toys in this category feature unique shapes (such as Q-version or abstract designs) and come with built-in designer IP or trendy cultural attributes (e.g., Pop Mart's Molly and Labubu), making them ideal for blind box packaging.
Designers launch limited editions and hidden variants through blind box formats to spark fans' collecting desire.
Anime and movie IP derivatives are also suitable for being made into blind box products.
For example, blind boxes featuring Disney characters or characters from Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen—relying on the fan base of mature IPs—can lower the threshold for collecting through blind box formats (with single-item prices lower than full-set figures). They can be designed with "rare characters" and "limited-edition looks" (such as hidden-version villains) to stimulate repeat purchases.
Micro-scene toys and decorative figurines are suitable for blind box packaging. Scene-based toys, in particular, lend themselves well to this format.
Miniaturized life scenes (such as kitchens and school campuses) and fairy-tale scenes (such as forest cottages) are ideal for blind box design. These blind box feature small single-box sizes and low production costs, making them perfect for combining into complete scenes and encouraging users to collect full sets.
Additionally, scene elements can be updated with themed iterations (such as Christmas themes or urban night scenes), bringing continuous updates to these custom blind box toy products.
Animal toys and fantasy creature series also have many blind box products gaining popularity.
Referable cases include tokidoki unicorns, dinosaur blind boxes, and Pokémon series blind box products. Animal shapes easily trigger emotional resonance, while fantasy creatures (such as dragons and angels) can create rarity in blind box through design differentiation.
Moreover, such toys can be combined with "evolutionary forms" and "regional limitations" (such as marine creatures, desert creatures) to enrich the blind box product series.
Core Elements of Blind Box Toy Design You Must Know