Jakks Pacific has signed up to make plush toys based on Marvel Super Hero Squad – a new cartoon stylised brand extension which ties into the kids virtual world HeroUp.com.

The licence also includes the rights to make action games based on classic Marvel hero designs.

In plush, the initial line-up will include collectibles, clip-ons and large plush with interactive online elements.

Similar to Jakks' Club Penguin plush Puffles, the Marvel plush will include codes to unlock special features and items at HeroUp.com.

Set to launch in Spring, a series of Marvel 'skill and action' games are designed to encourage active play, using Marvel properties such as The Avengers.

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Stephen Berman, president and CEO, Jakks Pacific said: "We are thrilled to further grow our partnership with Marvel to create Marvel Superhero Squad plush products that expand Marvel’s virtual world, HeroUp.com, with innovative ways to connect, collect and play."

"With the breadth of new Marvel entertainment coming next year, including feature films based on The Avengers and Spider-Man, our goal is to deliver unique, high-quality toys that any Marvel fan would want while expanding our offerings in the boys category."

Paul Gitter, president of consumer products, North America, for Marvel Entertainment said: "As Marvel launches new digital entertainment experiences that enable consumers to experience our characters in entirely unique ways, we will continue to look for ways that we can further that connection through offline products that complement the online experiences. This deal with Jakks showcases this strategy as it will bring toy products to the market that can both enhance the game play within our popular HereoUp virtual world, as well as offer a chance to showcase their Marvel fandom offline."