Toy giants Mattel are diving into the world of manga, announcing a collaboration with TOKYOPOP to create original graphic novels based on the iconic Barbie and Hot Wheels brands. This exciting venture will see the beloved toys reimagined with manga-style artwork and storytelling, targeting a younger audience of children aged 8 to 12. The new graphic novels are slated for release in 2026, promising fresh adventures for fans old and new.
A New Chapter for Iconic Brands
The partnership between Mattel and TOKYOPOP marks a significant expansion for both Barbie and Hot Wheels. While both brands have seen numerous adaptations in various formats, including animated series and films, this will be their first foray into the world of manga-style graphic novels. This move reflects Mattel’s strategy to broaden its storytelling across diverse mediums, introducing the well-known characters and narratives to new audiences.
Manga-Style Adventures for Young Readers
These manga adaptations will feature original storylines and artwork, tailored for children aged 8 to 12. The books will adopt the traditional Japanese manga format, with right-to-left reading orientation and dynamic, expressive illustrations. The Hot Wheels series will feature a “Western-style manga” approach, with action-packed adventures inspired by the brand’s history. For Barbie, the graphic novels will explore new stories and feature both familiar faces and new characters, expanding the universe of the popular fashion doll.
Mattel’s Growing Publishing Imprint
This initiative is part of Mattel’s broader publishing efforts, which began with the launch of its own imprint in 2024. The company is actively working to introduce its tentpole IPs into a variety of book formats, utilizing its partnership with Simon & Schuster for sales and distribution of various titles, including activity books and coloring books. The move into manga is an innovative step to further solidify their presence in the publishing world.
TOKYOPOP: A Renowned Partner
TOKYOPOP, a leading manga and anime media brand, brings significant expertise to this collaboration. Known for publishing a wide array of popular manga titles, including adaptations of popular video games and movies, the company has a strong track record in producing high-quality graphic novels for diverse audiences. The partnership leverages TOKYOPOP’s experience to ensure the Barbie and Hot Wheels mangas resonate with their intended audience.
What to Expect in 2026
The first manga titles are expected to hit shelves in 2026 and will be distributed globally by Penguin Random House. The Hot Wheels manga will introduce readers to a world of high-speed races, innovative car designs, and thrilling adventures, while the Barbie series will offer stories filled with fashion, friendship, and empowerment. Both series promise original artwork and new narratives designed to captivate young readers and expand the reach of these iconic brands.
Expanding the Mattel Multiverse
Mattel’s venture into manga is indicative of their efforts to tap into diverse markets and reach new audiences. This initiative complements Mattel’s other projects, including a variety of film adaptations currently in development, such as Masters of the Universe, Barney, and Polly Pocket. If successful, the Barbie and Hot Wheels manga could pave the way for further adaptations of other Mattel brands, further cementing their positions in different entertainment spaces.
Previous Comic Book History
This isn’t the first time Barbie and Hot Wheels have ventured into the world of comics. In the past, Barbie had two ongoing series with Marvel, while Hot Wheels had a series with DC Comics back in the 1970s. TOKYOPOP also has previous experience with Barbie, having released Cine-Manga storybooks based on the doll’s animated series.
A Blend of Cultures
The manga style, with its distinct visual language and storytelling conventions, is a departure from traditional Western comics. This crossover will provide a unique experience for young readers, exposing them to a different style of storytelling while still being rooted in the familiar worlds of Barbie and Hot Wheels. The move to publish manga adaptations is a strategic effort by Mattel to connect with young consumers worldwide who are increasingly drawn to this popular Japanese art form.
A Look Ahead
As 2026 draws closer, anticipation is building for the debut of these manga adaptations. This collaboration between Mattel and TOKYOPOP will not only expand the reach of Barbie and Hot Wheels but also introduces them to a new generation of readers in an engaging and creative way. With original stories and artwork, the Barbie and Hot Wheels manga promises to be an exciting addition to the world of children’s literature and a fresh take on two of the most beloved toy brands.
The Power of Nostalgia
The decision to create manga-style graphic novels is a strategic move that taps into the nostalgia of adults who grew up with Barbie and Hot Wheels, while also appealing to a new generation of kids. The familiar characters and brands will capture their attention, while the new format will provide a fresh and exciting reading experience. This blend of old and new will likely contribute to the success of the graphic novels.
A Growing Trend in Toy Adaptations
The move to create manga for established toy brands reflects a growing trend of expanding the storytelling of toys across various mediums. Mattel’s investment in manga shows that they are actively exploring new ways to keep these brands relevant and engaging for modern audiences. As the popularity of manga continues to grow globally, it’s likely that we’ll see more toy companies exploring similar adaptations in the future.
