Mecard Toy

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Your First Mecard

Mecard toys are a hugely popular line of transformable robots that originated in South Korea. With hundreds of different Mecard characters to collect across various themes and categories, these clever toys combine robotics and classic collecting into an innovative play pattern loved by kids and collectors of all ages.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Mecard toys so you can start your collection off right. We’ll look at what makes them so unique, where to buy them, price ranges, compatibility with other toy lines, and much more. By the end, you’ll be a Mecard expert ready to build your robot army!

What Are Mecard Toys?

Mecard toys are a robotic line of toys that transform from vehicle to robot with the swipe of a card. Produced by Choirock, they were first released in Korea in 2019 before expanding globally.

Each Mecard toy is an intricately detailed robot character housed inside a vehicle form. To transform them, you simply swipe a collectible Mecard card over an RFID reader on the toy. This scans a chip in the card and initiates the automatic transformation sequence!

Once transformed, the Mecard robot can be posed and played with until you’re ready to convert it back to vehicle form by swiping the card again. The seamless transformations and collectible nature of the line has made Mecard a worldwide phenomenon.

How Do Mecard Toys Work?

The transforming functionality of Mecard toys is made possible through innovative robotics and RFID technology. Each Mecard character has two modes – a vehicle form and robot form.

Inside the toy is a complex system of gears, motors, microchips, and sensors that allow it to transform between the two modes automatically. A RFID (radio frequency identification) chip inside the toy reads signals from the collectible Mecard cards.

When a card is swiped over the reader on the toy, the RFID chip inside the card transmits a signal to the robot. This initiates the transformation sequence already programmed into the toy. Motors and gears whir to life, shifting and rotating segments of the toy to seamlessly convert forms in seconds.

Lights, sounds, and other play features can also be activated through the collectible Mecard cards, creating interactive play. The robots are powered by battery packs that provide the necessary electricity for the automatic transformations.

Where Can I Buy Mecard Toys?

Mecard toys are widely available due to their global popularity. Here are some of the best places to buy authentic Mecards:

• Online retailers – Large stores like Amazon and eBay have a great selection of Mecard toys in stock. This allows you to easily browse and purchase the specific characters you want.
• Toy stores – Major toy retailers like Toys R Us, Walmart, and Target carry Mecard starter sets and blind box packs. Check the action figure aisles and collectible sections.
• Hobby stores – Specialty hobby and comic book stores often stock rare Mecard imports and exclusives not found in mainstream retailers.
• Import shops – For the largest selection of Mecards, visit import toy shops that specialize in products from Japan and Korea.
• Choirock online shop – You can buy direct from the manufacturer at the official Choirock shop. It has exclusives and pre-order options.

For the best deals, shop sales, promotions, and clearance sections both online and in stores. Comparing prices between multiple retailers can help you save money building your collection.

The Most Popular Mecard Toys

With hundreds of robot characters available, there are tons of popular Mecard toys kids and collectors love. Here are some of the most sought-after Mecard robots:

• IceBear: A polar bear robot that transforms into a snowplow truck. He’s a fierce fighter known for ice attacks.
• CherryX: A red and black robot that converts into a futuristic armored car. CherryX is known for speed.
• TigerKing: This lion robot has a sword and shield. He transforms into a gold lion mech.
• DinoS: A turquoise robotic T-Rex that becomes a monster truck. He’s exceptionally strong in battle.
• DarkTiger: A stealth robot panther that transforms into a military tank. He has powerful claw attacks.
• Crunch: A bright yellow robot that transforms into a construction digger. Crunch looks cute but hits hard!
• LimeZ: A green robot warrior that converts into a helicopter for aerial attacks. LimeZ is an agile flyer.
• Comet: A blue jet fighter robot able to reach supersonic speeds. Comet has one of the coolest vehicle forms.

These are just a few examples of the diverse robots available to collect. New Mecard toys are constantly being introduced through sets and blind boxes to discover.

Are Mecard Toys Suitable for All Ages?

A major appeal of Mecards is that they’re fun for kids and adults alike. The toys are suitable for ages 5 and up, with safety and complexity increasing for older ages.

Younger children 5-8 years old will love the initial transforming play pattern and collecting all the different robot characters. The vehicles and animals appeal to this age range.

Older kids 8-12 years can handle the more intricate transforming robots. Interactive battle play develops strategic thinking. Trading cards with friends is also popular.

Adult collectors appreciate the nostalgia, rarity, and display factor of limited edition Mecards. Advanced builders enjoy customizing robots. There’s enjoyment across all ages!

For kids under 3 years, Mecard toys are not recommended due to small parts and complex transformations. But with adult supervision, preschoolers can still enjoy the play in simple vehicle mode.

How to Transform a Mecard Toy

Transforming a Mecard from vehicle to robot or vice versa is designed to be quick and seamless. Here are the basic steps:

1. Make sure the toy is powered on. Insert fresh batteries if needed.
2. Locate the RFID reader on the Mecard toy. It’s usually found on the front hood section of the vehicle form.
3. Select the corresponding Mecard card for the toy and hold it near the reader.
4. When the card is close enough, the scanner will detect it and start the transformation.
5. Lights and sounds activate as the toy automatically shifts from vehicle to robot mode or vice versa.
6. Once complete, the Mecard will be locked in the new form. Scan again to transform back.
7. For motion-activated transformations, roll or move the toy instead of scanning a card.

With a simple swipe, kids can instantly switch their Mecards between modes for endless play potential. Just be sure to keep track of those all-important collectible cards!

Mecard Toy Price Ranges

Mecard toys range in price from about $10 to $60 depending on the size, complexity, and whether it’s an individual robot or multi-pack set. Here are the typical price ranges:

• Basic Mecards: Smaller individual robots with simpler transformations retail for $10-$20.
• Deluxe Mecards: Larger, more complex figures with extra features are $20-$35.
• Mega Mecards: Large robots, some over 12 inches tall, retail for $30-$60.
• Starter/Gift sets: These themed Mecard 3-5 packs cost $25-$50.
• Blind Boxes: Random Mecards in blind packaging cost $10-$15 per box.
• Playsets: Large sets with vehicles, locations and multiple Mecards start around $50.
• Rare exclusives: Hard-to-find limited Mecards can cost up to $100 or more.

New and popular character Mecard toys tend to be at the higher end of pricing. But you can often find sales, deals, and discount codes to help save on building your collection.

Are Mecard Toys Safe for Kids?

Safety is an essential priority for the Mecard line. The toys are built to meet all required children’s product safety standards in the countries where they are sold.

Choirock, the maker of Mecards, states that all the toys pass rigorous internal testing as well as third-party tests for safety and durability. They are also compliant with regulations set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM International safety standards.

The plastics used in Mecard construction are non-toxic and BPA-free. Moving parts are designed to avoid pinch hazards and are extensively tested for wear and breakage resistance.

Electrical components like batteries, charging ports, motors, and lights, are also designed with child safety as a priority. As with any toy, adult supervision is still recommended for younger kids. But you can feel good about the safety measures built into this innovative toy line.

How Many Mecard Toys Are There?

Since the original launch in 2019, the vast Mecard lineup has expanded to over 350 robot characters and vehicles. And many more are slated for future release!

Here is a breakdown of the Mecard toy generations so far:

• Series 1: The original 2019 robot lineup with 85 characters
• Series 2: Over 65 new Mecard toys introduced in 2020
• Series 3: 95+ new additions released in 2021
• Mega Mecards: A 2021 spin-off line with 10 giant robots
• SE Mecards: Special edition chrome/gold variants of select characters
• Turning Mecard: A 2021 sister line with transforming mini-figures

This is already an impressive robot roster. But given the frequency of new releases, collectors can look forward to many more Mecard toys being added over time.

Best Mecard Toy Accessories

Along with the robots themselves, Choirock has also released a ton of fun accessories to expand play. Here are some of the best Mecard add-ons for enhanced battle and collection play:

• Mecard Battle Case: A carry case with battle arena, cards, and tools.
• CarriMore: Motorized cargo carrier for displaying and transporting robots.
• MecaJet: Opening jet fighter plane that holds multiple Mecards in flight.
• MecStation: A customizable multi-level playset that collapses for storage.
• Battle Card Packs: Get new ability and character cards for battle play.
• Mecard Power Activators: Motorized platforms that activate special Mecard abilities.
• Display Stand: Posable stand to dynamically pose your Mecard collection.

From individual weapons to full playsets, these extras help unleash even more possibilities from your Mecard toys.

Is There a Mecard Starter Set?

For those looking to start their Mecard collection, starter packs are the ideal first purchase. These bundled sets provide multiple Mecard robots and accessories to kickstart your collection.

Some of the best introductory Mecard gift sets include:

• Mecardimals Set: Comes with 3 animal transform robots like Salamander and Meerkat.
• Mechanical Force Set: Get 5 basic warriors like LimeZ and IceBear.
• Mecabots Factory Set: Build your own custom robots with this DIY toolkit.
• Deluxe Battle Stadium: Comes with 6 robots, battle case, cards, and weapons.
• Mecard Collection Box: Mystery box with 3 random robots from Series 1-3.

Starter sets give you instant variety and play value at a reasonable price. Look for ones with exclusive characters and gear too! Sets themed around specific factions or tribes create a unified collection aesthetic right out of the box.

How Mecard Cards Work

Mecard toys aren’t complete without their collectible cards! Each robot character in the Mecard universe has an associated card that unlocks its abilities. Here’s an overview of how they work:

• Cards contain an RFID chip that triggers transformations and powers.
• Over 300 unique ability and character cards are available.
• Cards come in booster packs and full box sets.
• Special rare holographic and chrome cards have bonus properties.
• Battle cards let you activate weapons, armor, and attacks.
• Character cards summon specific robots to the fight.
• Some robots have multiple card variations to collect.
• Swipe the matching card to transform a Mecard toy.

Having the full deck of cards lets you experience the toys’ full play potential for combat and collecting.

Rare & Collectible Mecards

Part of the fun is searching for ultra rare and exclusive Mecard toys. Here are some of the most coveted rare finds:

• Mythical Series: Limited gold chrome colored variants of robots like Goldion.
• Neon Pop Series: Translucent neon Mecards like Pink Ptera exclusive to certain retailers.
• SE Mecards: Special edition chrome and matte finish releases, often region exclusive.
• Legendary Warriors: Powerful one-of-a-kind robots with elaborate designs.
• Unicorn Mecards: Extremely hard-to-find mystery chaser figures hinted to exist in certain series.
• Misprint Mecards: Factory defects with unique qualities like improper paint or molding.

Finding rare Mecards requires a combination of intense hunting, special events, contests, pure luck, and trading connections!

Differences Between Mecard and Turning Mecard

In 2021, Choirock introduced Turning Mecard, a sister line to Mecards with key differences:

• Smaller Size: Turning Mecards are mini ~2 inch figures compared to regular ~5 inch Mecards.
• Simpler Transform: Designed for smaller hands with fewer steps to transform.
• Battle Focus: Turning Mecards are tuned for tabletop battling gameplay.
• New Characters: While related, the Turning Mecard roster introduces mostly new robot characters.
• Alternate Forms: Some vehicles transform into beasts instead of robots.
• No RFID: Transformations are done manually without scannable cards.

While clearly from the same mecha universe, Turning Mecards offer a unique twist on transforming robot action for younger kids or tabletop gameplay. Both lines can clash in battle!

Are Mecard Toys Still Being Produced?

Yes, Mecard toys are still an active brand with regular new releases. According to the official Mecard roadmap, Choirock plans to support the line with:

• Series 4 launching in 2023 with 100+ new characters
• Series 5 slated for 2024
• Turning Mecard Series 2 also expected in 2024
• New playsets and factions planned to expand the universe

As the global popularity of Mecards grows, the company aims to continuously refresh the lineup each year with new robots, vehicles, accessories, and play styles.

These ambitious plans combined with strong ongoing sales suggest Mecard toys will continue churning out cool innovations for the foreseeable future!

How to Play the Mecard Battle Game

Mecard toys aren’t just about collecting – they’re also designed for head-to-head card battle play! Here are the basics of the Mecard battle game:

• Each player starts with a deck of 7 character cards and 7 ability cards.
• On your turn, play a character to summon them to the field from your collection.
• Use ability cards to power up your robot warriors for attacks, defense and upgrades.
• When robots battle, compare card stats and roll dice to determine damage.
• Robots stay on the field until all their hit points are depleted.
• Eliminate all your opponent’s robots to win!

There are advanced rules for complex gameplay, but the basics make battling accessible and fun for players of all ages. With hundreds of robots and abilities, no two games are ever the same!

The Mecard Story and Lore

The vibrant characters and factions of Mecards are set in a rich original sci-fi universe with extensive lore. Some key story elements:

• Mecards are elite warriors defending the temples of the ancient Primus civilization.
• Tribes like Mecamanic, Mecaborg, and Mecanimal have unique traits and robot designs.
• The temples hold secrets to powerful artifacts and ancient magic.
• An invasion by the cruel Absura tribe threatens the Mecard world’s survival.
• A prophecy says one hero will rise to unite the tribes and defeat the Absura for good.

The detailed history and relationships between the robots gives collectors a deeper connection. As the toy line expands, so does the fictional Mecard universe, revealed through comics and animated content.

Themed Mecard Collections

Within the core toy line, Mecards are divided into distinct themed groups and factions. Some of the major Mecard collections:

• Mecanimals: Robots based on animals like tigers, dinosaurs, sharks, and more
• Mecaborgs: Robot warriors modeled after mythological creatures and beasts
• Mecamanics: Robots with construction vehicle alternate forms like cranes and cement trucks
• MecaFighters: Warriors designed for battle such as ninjas, knights, and soldiers
• MecaRacers: Speed-based robots that transform into race cars, jets, and dragsters
• Elementals: Robots with elemental powers like fire, water, and earth

Collecting robots within a specific theme creates cohesive displays. But the tribes also clash together in battle for ultimate supremacy!

Fixing & Repairing Mecard Toys

Like any intricate electronic toy, Mecards can be susceptible to minor wear and tear over time. Here are some troubleshooting tips for fixing common Mecard issues:

• Loose joints: Tighten screws and connectors. Use clear nail polish to stiffen loose parts.
• Power issues: Check battery contacts for corrosion. Replace batteries regularly.
• Jammed transformations: Carefully disassemble and remove debris blocking motion.
• Damaged gears: Some gears can be replaced via online part suppliers or donor toys.
• Cosmetic issues: Superglue can mend minor cracks and touched-up paint maintains appearance.
• RFID malfunction: Try cleaning the scanner surface. Stickers can block sensor.

For major issues, replacement parts and professional repairs may be needed. But simple fixes can get most Mecards transforming and battling again in no time!

International Availability

Mecard toys originated in South Korea, but have gained widespread popularity across the globe:

• Available in over 40 countries spanning North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and more.
• English versions of toys and media make Mecards easily accessible for western collectors.
• Sold in major mainstream retailers like Target and Walmart in the United States.
• Special exclusives created for certain international markets adds appeal for collectors worldwide.
• Supported by worldwide shipping for online stores like Amazon and eBay.
• Official Choirock webshop ships products to most regions.

Language localization and region-specific exclusives helps fuel interest worldwide. And as the Mecard brand continues growth, even greater global availability is expected!

In Summary

Mecard toys offer the perfect blend of robots, transforming vehicles, battling, and collecting in one incredible toy line. With hundreds of unique characters to discover across numerous themed collections, the possibilities are endless. This guide covers all the basics on how Mecards work, where to buy them, play tips, repairs, and much more. From your very first robot warrior to completing an entire Mecard army, this transformable world has something for toy fans of all ages!