DREAMO Collectible Character Blends Physical Figures With an Evolving Digital World
A new collectible character called DREAMO is being launched with an unusual premise: the figure on the shelf is only one part of the character’s story. London-based Novifolium has introduced DREAMO alongside DREAMOSIS, a digital universe designed to connect physical collectibles with changing digital interpretations of the same character. The company says the concept is built around the idea that future collectibles may move back and forth between physical and digital worlds rather than existing exclusively in one or the other.
DREAMO has been designed around a recognizable underlying form that can be reinterpreted through different outfits, materials, artists and physical editions. One version described in the announcement appears as a silver rabbit wearing a mirrored tracksuit, amber sunglasses and a paint-splattered hat, but Novifolium says future releases could look dramatically different while still remaining identifiable as DREAMO.
That approach borrows from designer-toy collecting, where a familiar character or silhouette can be repeatedly reinvented without changing its basic identity. Novifolium says individual DREAMO editions can remain finite even as new versions of the character continue to appear.
The digital side comes through DREAMOSIS. Images from everyday life, including selfies, pets, personal possessions and other discoveries, can be used as starting points for experiences inside its visual world. The company envisions those digital creations potentially inspiring future physical DREAMO releases, while physical collectibles can in turn feed back into the digital universe.
Rather than following the traditional path of a story creating a character that eventually becomes a toy, Novifolium describes DREAMO as part of a continuing cycle moving from the real world to the digital world, into a character, then into a physical collectible and back into the digital space. The company also sees room for future DREAMO editions tied to artists, fashion, music, cities and other cultural influences. Some interpretations may remain entirely digital, while selected versions could eventually be manufactured as physical collectibles.
DREAMO has already made its first move into physical collecting through a Kickstarter campaign for DREAMO and DREAMOSIS collectibles. The campaign is being positioned as an early opportunity for supporters to enter the project while its physical and digital universe is still being established.
DREAMOSIS is currently available on iOS and Android, while Novifolium says additional DREAMO interpretations can emerge over time through new worlds, artists and collaborations.