Angry Birds started something, and it wasn’t a good thing. It sent a message to iOS and Android game developers. One that said people would actually be willing to spend money on strange cash-ins related to popular apps. Which is Halfbrick, the developers of Fruit Ninja are now selling stuffed Fruit Ninja toys.

“How would that even work?” you wonder aloud. Well, Halfbrick produces plushies of the in-game instructor, Sensei, and of a Watermelon with eyes….

Surprise! I know, this week’s column was supposed to be about Nendoroids, but don’t worry. We’ll look over those cute little figurines next week. Since Valentine’s Day is Monday, I figured it would be more appropriate to offer a little list minute list of possible import-ish gift suggestions that you can give your special someone this year.

Now, since overseas shipping probably isn’t an option at such a late date like this, almost all of the gift suggestions below should be available in a specialty store near you. I may toss in an online shopping option if there’s an expedited shipping option so you could probably have the gift arrive by February 14, 2011…

When a game is released in North America and becomes successful, you see it everywhere. Case in point, Halo 3 was available not only in major electronics retailers and game stores like Best Buy and GameStop, but also in 7-Eleven stores. If it is a real winner, it will be accompanied by a strategy guide, soundtrack or occasionally a cheap trinket or two.

Things are slightly different in Japan. Yes, all of the prior accompanying items coincide with a game’s success, but there are additional promotional materials released. Ones which America doesn’t often receive. One of the most famous of these is the stuffed toy.

The plushie, as the stuffed mascot toy is affectionately known, is indigenous to Japan. Occasionally you will see a stray one roaming outside of its natural habitat. Usually this is from a brave company who knows a game will be a hit and feels the mascot characters are cute enough to entice interest. Of course, a devoted fan who did exceptionally well in life-skills class (formerly known as home ec) will have the skills to create their own.

In Japan, plushies, both licensed and original, are rampant. Any successful game franchise with an adorable mascot is guaranteed to have at least one or two. So today we’ll take a brief peek at some of the more popular and recognizable stuffed toys that can be imported from Japan…