1. Labubu: Why Is This Little Monster So Popular?
Labubu, the mischievous little creature with sharp teeth and wild hair, has become one of the hottest names in the designer toy world. Created by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, Labubu is part of “The Monsters” series from the renowned Chinese toy brand POP MART.
Cute in a Creepy Way: The Aesthetic of Contrast
Labubu isn’t traditionally “cute,” but its chaotic look—wild fur, big eyes, toothy grin—has created a kind of reverse charm. It appeals to a new generation of fans drawn to “creepy-cute” (or kimo-kawaii) aesthetics that defy conventional beauty standards.
Viral Fame on Social Media
From Xiaohongshu to TikTok and Instagram, Labubu is everywhere. Whether it’s unboxing videos, outfit swaps, or parody skits, users have embraced Labubu as a tool for storytelling and self-expression. Its quirky design and meme-friendly appearance make it perfect for short-form content.
The Audience Behind the Fame
Young collectors of designer and art toys
ACG (anime-comic-game) fans who value rich character design
Urban creatives who embrace independent aesthetics
In short, Labubu’s rise isn’t random—it speaks to a generation that values identity, storytelling, and niche creativity.
2. If Labubu Had a Game, What Would It Be Like?
Though no official Labubu game exists (yet), we can easily imagine several game genres that would fit the character and its fanbase perfectly:
Idea #1: Blind Box Business Simulator
“Build your own designer toy empire.”
You play as a toy entrepreneur designing Labubu figures, managing packaging and marketing, and competing in virtual blind box sales. Trade hidden editions with other players, customize display shelves, and run your own POP MART-style empire.
Idea #2: Puzzle Adventure Game
“Enter the whimsical nightmare world of Labubu.”
In this 2D side-scroller with hand-drawn art, you guide Labubu through surreal landscapes, solve environmental puzzles, and uncover dark fairy tale lore. Think Limbo meets Don’t Starve, with a pinch of absurd humor and heart.
Idea #3: AR Companion App
“Your chaotic-cute buddy in the real world.”
Using your phone camera, bring a 3D Labubu into your environment. Snap photos, unlock costumes, collect animated emotes, and complete daily interactions. A perfect mix of digital pet and virtual influencer.
3. Real-World Success: Toys That Became Games (and Vice Versa)
Labubu joining the game world might seem ambitious, but many successful precedents already exist:
Sanrio Collabs: Hello Kitty and My Melody in Doraemon: Story of Seasons, and mobile AR games
LINE FRIENDS in Games: Characters appear in KartRider Rush+, Brawl Stars, etc.
POP MART Virtual IPs: Labubu as digital avatars in Tmall Genie and stickers in Chinese apps
BE@RBRICK Goes Digital: From vinyl to interactive 3D and NFTs
In other words, “designer toy meets digital world” is no longer fantasy—it’s a proven market trend.
4. Where Would a Future Labubu Game Be Released?
Creative indie games, especially those with niche aesthetics, don’t always pass App Store guidelines easily. That’s why many developers use alternative channels like TestFlight for early access or third-party platforms such as TopStore to distribute modded or experimental titles.