Mar 30, 2009

Pressman Toy Introduces Large Numbers and Kids Editions

New York, NY – Pressman Toy Corporation introduces new extensions to its Rummikub® line of games for 2009—a Large Numbers Edition perfect for quick game play with larger, easy to read numbers; and a preschool version called Rummikub Kids Edition that includes easy to identify shapes and colors. Rummikub®, everyone’s favorite fast-moving rummy tile game, the third most popular family game in the world, has brought family and friends together for some healthy competition for more than 50 years. Rummikub Large Numbers Edition is available now at specialty retailers nationwide. Rummikub Kids Edition will be in stores this summer.

“Rummikub is a classic family game with great entertainment value,” says Jim Pressman, president, Pressman Toy Corporation. “The rummy tile game is truly an intergenerational game that grandparents, their children and grandchildren can all enjoy together. Now, even the youngest of children can join in the fun of creating “groups” and “runs” with the Rummikub Kids Edition, and we’ve also made a version that’s easier on the eyes called Rummikub Large Numbers Edition.”

It is estimated that over 50 million Rummikub games have been sold to date in 54 countries across 5 continents, and printed in 26 languages. (If you could place all the Rummikub® tiles manufactured end to end, they would make a line that would circle the Earth two and a half times!).

Enthusiasts of the game have formed “Rummikub Clubs” all over the world. Club members have scheduled meetings to play Rummikub for fun, hold local and national tournaments, and even send their national winners to Worldwide Rummikub Championships, which are held every three years. Twelve countries competed in the first World Rummikub Championship that was held in Jerusalem in 1991. The 7th World Rummikub Championship (WRC7) will be held November 6-9, 2009 in Marbella, Spain.

Rummikub was developed by the late Mr. Ephraim Hertzano back in the early 1930s. The first Rummikub sets were hand-made one at a time in Hertzano’s backyard by his immediate family.

Now, almost 80 years later, Pressman Toy adds two Rummikub games that will engage new players, young and old:

The Original Rummikub® Large Numbers Edition – New for 2009
For 2 to 4 players; Ages 8 to adult; SRP: $25

Everyone’s favorite fast-moving rummy tile game takes a big step forward with Pressman Toy’s latest edition that features bright, oversized numbers. Now, it’s easier than ever for players to see the tiles that have been played. Plus, the orange tiles have been substituted with green, offering players a clearer color distinction. Players must create “runs” and “groups” of numbers with their tiles and try to be the first player to lay down all their tiles to win each round.

Rummikub® Kids Edition – New for 2009
For 2 for 4 players; Ages 4 and up; SRP: $15

This first Rummikub set for preschoolers from Pressman Toy is cleverly designed with shapes that help children self-correct their moves. The game helps children develop number and color recognition skills, teaches players how to build sets of consecutive numbers and also fosters logical reasoning as they learn the basics of Rummikub. Features three levels of game play.

The Original Rummikub®
For 2 to 4 players; Ages 8 to adult; SRP: $20

The Original Rummikub is the classic, all family game where players create groups and runs of numbers using high-quality, durable tiles. On their turns, players lay down runs (such as Red 7, Red 8 and Red 9) and groups (Black 8, Red 8, Blue 8) using tiles from their racks. A player can even add tiles to what other players have already laid down. The first player to empty their rack wins the round and collects all the points the other players have left.

About Pressman Toy Corporation Inc.
Pressman Toy Corporation Inc., the third largest game manufacturer in the United States, was founded in 1922. The company has released many strong brands that consumers have enjoyed for generations, such as Rummikub, MASTERMIND and Tri-Ominos.

One of the first companies in the industry to begin licensing popular characters and content for toys and games, Pressman Toy has created games and puzzles based on NBC’s The Office, Disney’s The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Ben 10, Pokémon, Scooby-Doo! and The Simpsons, as well as popular games shows Deal or No Deal, Who Wants to Be A Millionaire, Jeopardy! (including ESPN Jeopardy!) and Wheel of Fortune (including Disney Wheel of Fortune).

More recently, the company has expanded its offerings into the DVD game and DVD board game segments. Further information about Pressman Toy can be found at www.pressmantoy.com.