Pudgy Penguins, a digital collectible brand that began as an NFT collection in 2021, is preparing to release its own cryptocurrency, PENGU, in 2024. This marks a significant step for the company as it extends its reach beyond web3 and into mainstream cultural and retail spaces.

The PENGU Token

The PENGU token will be launched on the Solana blockchain with a total supply of 88,888,888,888 tokens. Of this, 25.9% will be allocated to the Pudgy community, including NFT holders, while 24.12% will go to “other communities,” signaling a strategy to onboard a broader audience.

In an announcement made on X (formerly Twitter), Pudgy Penguins stated that the token would offer millions of fans the chance to align with the brand’s vision. “With PENGU, the millions of Pudgy Penguin fans and the hundreds of millions of people outside of crypto that see and share the Pudgy Penguin every day finally have the opportunity to align themselves with the character,” the company wrote.

Cover Banner on X (Twitter)

Expanding the Pudgy Penguins Ecosystem

The introduction of the PENGU token is part of Pudgy Penguins’ broader strategy to grow its ecosystem. What began as an NFT collection now encompasses two established NFT series, several gaming projects in development, and physical merchandise available in major retailers like Walmart and Target.

Additionally, the brand is venturing into gaming through collaborations with industry leaders. Its recent partnership with Mythical Games will bring "Pudgy Party," a Fall Guys-inspired mobile game, to life. These initiatives aim to combine digital engagement with physical products, creating a bridge between the virtual and real worlds.

Pudgy Roadmap

A Resilient Brand in the NFT Space

Despite its current status as the third-largest NFT collection, Pudgy Penguins has faced significant challenges since its inception. Internal disputes within the founding team culminated in the brand’s sale in 2022 to entrepreneur Luca Netz for 750 ETH (then valued at approximately $2.5 million).

Under Netz’s leadership, the brand refocused on community engagement and product innovation, gaining widespread support. This revitalization enabled Pudgy Penguins to thrive amid bearish market conditions and expand its presence in physical retail. To date, the brand has sold over 1.5 million plushies and other merchandise, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.

Pudgy Penguins Announces PENGU Token Launch on Solana

Looking Ahead

With the release of PENGU on the horizon, Pudgy Penguins is set to further integrate its digital and physical offerings, creating a multifaceted ecosystem that appeals to crypto enthusiasts and mainstream audiences alike. The token is expected to support this growth by fostering deeper community involvement and expanding the brand's influence.

Source: BlockchainGamer