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Pontiki: Japan's version of Mr. Potato Head for a New Generation
by Trisha Kunimoto  
assisted by Yoshiko Noda  

Pontiki vs. Mr. Potato Head

Unlike the classic big and bulky Mr. Potato Head, Pontiki is more compact and lightweight. Measuring less than two inches in size, Pontiki can fit right in your pocket. Also, when playing with Mr. Potato Head, the creative process is limited because there are only a few places where one can place the Mr. Potato Head parts. However with Pontiki there is an endless amount of spaces where the plastic body parts may be placed. Also, the body of Pontiki is interchangeable with other Pontiki models as well. Pontiki can take on different color schemes, shapes, and appearances. Since Mr. Potato Head will always be a potato, people may lose interest after a short amount of time. But, with Pontiki the possibilities are endless.

Pontiki

The Evolution of Pontiki

Even though Pontiki has a variety of features, it was not enough for the creators. Due to the popularity of Pontiki, a new and improved model called "Pootiki" has debuted. Distrubuted by Bandai, Pootiki features the one thing the original Pontiki lacked. Built with an internal motor, Pootiki has the ability to move. The body of Pootiki is a bit longer width and shorter in height, but the parts are still interchangeable with other Pontiki pieces giving fans a greater range of creative possibilities.

Pootiki

As more people experience the fun in creating Pontiki sculptures, Cube has sponsored a Pontiki Museum on the Pontiki official website. Fans can send in pictures and if their Pontiki is unique and different, the company will add it the Pontiki Museum collection. Many fans have submitted their Pontiki works of art and unlike regular museums, fans can view the Pontiki collection 24 hours a day. So if you tired of the old, fried Mr. Potato Head and ready for a new challenge, then crack open a Pontiki.



Love it? Hate it? Buy it.

Pontiki will be available at Akadot Retail. The original 15 Pontiki models and Pootiki will be available for purchase after July 8, 2002.

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Pontiki © Cube/Bandai.