Take flight as a dragon rider of Berk with the latest look at How to Train Your Dragon. The Universal Pictures live-action film based on the animated DreamWorks classic has landed with a glimpse of Viking life in the movie, as well as ways you can gear up for the film’s release and the opening of the Isle of Berk at Epic Universe this summer.
Director Dean DeBlois aims to immerse a new generation of fans in the world of How to Train Your Dragon. A new look at how Berk came to life for the live-action picture shows how the young cast was able to feel a part of a world where dragons are real. The Viking kingdom is thankfully mostly practical and was made to feel lived-in for the kind of fantasy realms fans have dreamed to be able to step into. The only thing not real, of course, are the dragons like Toothless.
Bringing Toothless home isn’t entirely impossible. Collectors will be happy to know that the Nightfury is once again providing the cuteness aggression with incredible figures and plushes. We love the “smoke” breathing effect on the Wow! Stuff Real FX Toothless Puppetronic which will be available at select retailers as well as the Light Up Toothless stuffed animal pillow, which will be a Target exclusive.
Fans of Astrid’s dragon Stormfly need not worry, the Deadly Nadder will be getting a figure as part of the dragon and rider two-pack assortment which will also be widely available. These come posable with the rider being able to mount the dragon figures to take flight.
There’s also a way to become the dragon with a blast and roar Toothless mask. Warning: if you get your kid this, it’s very much cosplay lite with fire-breathing effects but definitely a little terrifying, especially in the dark. There’s also of course Funko’s official roll out of figures to add to your collection.
One of the most exciting releases that’s being featured is Nex Playground‘s DreamWorks How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies game. The family-friendly console brings Berk into your home with a motion-based flight simulator. You are able to ride Toothless and the other dragons in a series of fun flying activities and exploration of the island of Berk. The game is set to be released later this spring.
For those excited to get to Berk sooner, Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon themed land is opening later this month. Universal Studios Resorts already has official merchandise you can purchase before your trip to get into theme with fandom style or cosplay inspired gear like this Toothless hoodie.
It’s going to be hot though for the new theme park’s first summer, so we’re definitely opting for lighter T-shirts and in-universe hats or fashion with Toothless emblazoned all over it. And hey, you can still visit with a dragon by your side with the How to Train Your Dragon Hug and Glide Toothless Plush Toy, or wear him perched on your head with this headband. We’re most excited to visit and try the adopt a dragon experience, where you can hatch one out of an egg at the parks.
Universal Pictures’ How to Train Your Dragon opens June 13.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
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