Angry Birds fly into Walmart

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Of all the mobile games out there, perhaps none is as popular, or addicting as Angry Birds. And the Angry Birds phenomenon doesn't end with digital games; plush toys, board games and costumes have all been inspired by this app. As the world's most-downloaded mobile game, it is no surprise that Rovio Entertainment would want to team up with Walmart for the newest version of Angry Birds, which will be released in app stores on March 22. The partnership will integrate retail, social media and gaming components, and launch in more than 3,000 Walmart U.S. stores on March 25.

Under the program, Walmart customers able to access special “golden eggsteroid” clues that unlock four bonus levels in the game via Facebook (FB) and through clues embedded in select limited-edition Angry Birds merchandise available in Walmart stores. The discounter is also offering its more than 13 million Facebook fans the first of four special clues starting March 22 by visiting the chain’s Facebook page.

The remaining clues will be embedded in select limited-edition Angry Birds merchandise available in Walmart stores, including apparel, plush toys, mobile phones, and snacks.

Walmart is bringing fun back to the shopping experience, with interactive merchandise that brings the best of digital gaming together with in-store retail," said Seong Ohm, senior VP and general merchandise manager for entertainment, Walmart U.S. "By partnering with Rovio, we're able to give millions of avid bird slingers bonus content by coming into our stores and shopping our broad assortment of Angry Birds Space merchandise.