As excitement around digital innovation continues, NFTs have become a fascinating intersection between web3 and physical merchandise. From timeless classics like Hot Wheels to innovative NFT-to-toy pipelines like Pudgy Penguins and VeeFriends, a number of NFT collections have introduced a dynamic and playful way to engage people with the blockchain world.

This list features five of the top NFT collections from 2023 that have delighted enthusiasts while giving newcomers an easy entry into web3. For instance, the Pudgy Penguins toy comes with a QR code and email setup to help new users create a crypto wallet and step into the Penguin metaverse. Then there's Hot Wheels Garage, celebrating the brand’s legacy of 20,000+ die-cast cars with virtual collectibles that unlock real-life Hot Wheels models.

Ready to explore more? Here are five NFT collections that capture the spirit of web3 in a fun and tangible way.

NFT collections that bridge digital and physical worlds

Pudgy Penguins

Type: Phygital NFT

The Pudgy Penguins NFT collection initially launched in July 2021 as an 8,888-item profile picture (PFP) and membership NFT collection featuring adorable penguins dressed in different outfits and showcasing unique personalities. This collection consists of unique profile pictures (PFPs), often including digital art, each representing a distinct item such as a piece of art, a collectible, or a virtual item. Owning a Pudgy Penguin allows users to access exclusive activations. After its release, the Pudgy universe expanded to include merch, toys, and other collectibles. Then, in Feb. 2024, Pudgy Penguins partnered with Walmart to distribute a line of plushies and figurines. Those who purchased the collectibles (either at Walmart or on the Pudgy Penguin store) received a QR code to set up a crypto wallet, gain a soulbound NFT linked to the Pudgy Penguin collectible, and access Pudgy World. In this virtual space, the corresponding digital Pudgy can live and interact with other penguins.

In Oct. 2024, Pudgy surprised fans and consumers again by announcing an expansion to 2,000 Walgreens stores in the U.S.

Claynosaurz

Type: Phygital NFT

If you were one of the lucky ones to grab a blue T-rex Claynosaurz in November 2023, you already have a piece of the collection. For everyone else, the wait is over. As of early 2024, the Solana NFT collection, known for its detailed 3D dinosaurs and animations, has brought its characters to life with a nine-item plushie release. Those who purchased a plushie have gained access to a virtual world for their Claynosaurz. In this world, collectors can interact with their digital dinosaurs and explore exclusive features that blend the physical and virtual experience.

Collectors can learn more about Claynosaurz on their website and start interacting with these unique digital dinosaurs today.

VeeFriends

Type: Toy based on NFT collection

In May 2021, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk launched VeeFriends, an NFT collection featuring hand-drawn, quirky characters like a poodle, cat, and parrot. Eager fans purchased these doodles through NFT marketplaces like OpenSea, and others. Total sales of these 283 characters were hard to estimate, but exactly 10,255 inaugural VeeFriends NFTs exist. Nearly two years later, the collection expanded with a collaboration with Squishmallows, the beloved plush toy brand. Squishmallows brought four VeeFriends characters to life as physical plushies, including an iguana, an astronaut, a kiwi, and a hedgehog. NFT owners of these characters had the opportunity to claim a free Squishmallow at launch, merging the digital and physical worlds for fans.

Hot Wheels NFT Garage

Type: Redeemable NFT

The Hot Wheels NFT Garage Series from Mattel Creations, the famous toy brand’s digital collectible arm, is a treat for car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Released to celebrate iconic models like the Lamborghini Veneno, Aventador Coupé, and Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo, this collection offers virtual collectibles with the chance to redeem a physical toy car. Each pack includes seven NFTs, with a chance to pull "Uncommon," "Rare," "Super Rare," or even "Treasure Hunt" cars. Notably, the "Treasure Hunt" NFTs can be redeemed for exclusive, limited-edition Hot Wheels die-cast cars, merging the digital and physical worlds. According to Mattel, collectors who complete specific sets of virtual collectibles will be eligible for these special, redeemable Hot Wheels cars.

World of Women

Type: Toy based on NFT collection

The most expensive collectible in this article happens to be the classic money game, Monopoly, only reimagined for a futuristic galaxy by some pioneering NFT creators. Created in collaboration with World of Women, an NFT collection and brand focused on empowering women in web3, this edition of Monopoly celebrates the world of NFTs, with traditional game pieces replaced by icons from significant NFT collections like Bored Ape Yacht Club, VeeFriends, and Cool Cats. Instead of fiat currency, players use Ether bills, and there’s even a nod to gas fees, bringing a fun web3 twist to the timeless game.

Almost all of the collectibles listed are available to purchase at the time of publishing. They also embrace all parts of the NFT world, ranging from redeemable to virtual-only experiences. We don’t pick favorites, but strongly believe any of these will make for a fun time.

What is an NFT Collection?

An NFT collection is a curated set of unique digital items that could represent a piece of art, a membership, and more. These collections are often created by artists, designers, or brands and are minted on a blockchain, ensuring their scarcity and authenticity. By leveraging blockchain technology, NFT collections provide a transparent and secure way to verify ownership and provenance. Collectors of these digital items often enjoy a sense of community and ownership, with many collections offering exclusive benefits like access to special events, merchandise, or future developments. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of NFTs, these collections offer a fascinating glimpse into the future of digital ownership.

Bringing NFTs to life with physical collectibles

These collections stand out due to their ability to bring digital NFTs into the real world. From Pudgy Penguins plushies to VeeFriends x Squishmallows toys, these NFT collections aren't just something to own in a wallet after you buy NFTs. Rather, they’re something you can touch, feel, and show off. Whether you’re redeeming a Hot Wheels NFT for an actual die-cast car or collecting Squishmallows based on your favorite VeeFriends characters, these NFTs let you take a piece of web3 off the screen and into your everyday life. These NFT collections bring that extra layer of fun, which makes NFTs feel more accessible and tangible.

Conclusion

NFT collections are a fun and creative way to own and collect unique digital items. From quirky characters to interactive virtual worlds, NFTs bring a playful twist to collecting, offering endless possibilities to explore. Whether you’re drawn to a one-of-one artwork, interactive experiences, or just love the idea of owning something, NFTs open up a whole new world of entertainment and connection. Both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers can enjoy the most popular NFT collections even more when an adorable plushie or collectible toy is part of the total value. NFTs offer a chance to dive into a creative universe where each collectible comes with its own story, community, and sometimes even unlocks new experiences.