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Being one of the most well-known and oldest characters in all of Nintendo's video game franchises, there is no doubt of the community's love for Kirby. Popular around the globe, the pink puffball is more than just a cult phenomenon in Japan, with fans patronizing Kirby-themed cafes and official merchandise alongside the series' many titles. Now, another item is being added to the already-wide list of Kirby paraphernalia, but this time, the product comes in the form of a practical hand sanitizer dispenser.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a lot of changes in how the entertainment and video game industries have marketed their products. Launches and events have transitioned into digital and virtual spaces, and themed merchandise took the spread of the virus seriously. Brands like Razer and Pokemon-produced medical-grade masks and air purifiers, all to keep the population safe while still keeping their company's image top-of-mind. With sanitation now a priority globally, a Kirby hand sanitizer dispenser is a cute and fun way to keep hands clean of germs and other things.
On the SK Japan official website, details about the Kirby hand sanitizer dispenser were shared by the company. Roughly translated on Google, the item's name is "Star Kirby Sensor Alcohol Dispenser." The product showcases Kirby riding on the popular Warp Star, with the star's rainbow cloud trail serving as the item's stand and alcohol holder. The alcohol dispenser will stand at the height of 23.5 cm, with a width of 9.5 cm, and depth of 9.5 cm. It will be made available in Japan from the third week of December 2021, though there are no details on the actual price of the item yet.
What is most interesting about the Kirby-themed hand sanitizer dispenser is that SK Japan will be selling the item in physical amusement centers. The site lists down the locations where fans can find the product, indicating several popular Japanese game centers in major cities. With the effects of the global pandemic causing iconic Japan arcade centers to close down and more, it is surprising to see that pre-orders for the product were not made available to the fans online.
With the new Kirby and the Forgotten Land being released on the Nintendo Switch this 2022, the character will likely experience a spike in online popularity once more. Hopefully Kirby fans in Japan will be able to get their hands on the hand sanitizer dispenser as the product will likely be sold out once Nintendo launches the video game next year.
Source: SK Japan Official Site