Hershey Gaming Mailbag: Halloween Candy Partnerships 2025

Hey gaming friends! Welcome back to another mailbag edition where I dive into your burning questions about the gaming industry’s latest trends. This week, my inbox has been absolutely flooded with questions about Hershey’s recent gaming collaborations, especially with Halloween right around the corner. After personally hunting down those limited-edition Kit Kat bars with Mario on them (yes, I bought way too many), I’ve got plenty to share about this fascinating intersection of candy brands and gaming culture.

You know what’s wild? Just last week, I was standing in my local grocery store’s candy aisle, and I couldn’t help but notice how gaming has completely invaded the Halloween candy section. It’s not just about trick-or-treating anymore – it’s about scoring exclusive gaming merchandise through your favorite chocolate bars. The timing coincides perfectly with this year’s latest Halloween gaming releases, creating an unprecedented cultural moment where candy and gaming intersect. Let me answer your most pressing questions about this sweet phenomenon.

Question 1: “Is the Hershey x Nintendo Partnership Real, and What Products Are Available?”

Absolutely! The partnership between Hershey and Nintendo is 100% real, and I’ve personally collected several of these products. In November 2024, Hershey officially announced their collaboration featuring Kit Kat and Jolly Rancher brands with Nintendo characters. The limited-edition packaging features beloved characters from Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Here’s what I’ve found in stores during my candy-hunting adventures:

• Kit Kat bars with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser on the packaging
• Jolly Rancher bags featuring various Nintendo characters
• Special Halloween-sized varieties perfect for gaming marathon snacks
• QR codes on packages linking to Nintendo Switch sweepstakes

The coolest part? Each package includes a Nintendo Switch sweepstakes entry. I’ve entered about 20 times already (don’t judge me – I really needed those Kit Kats for, um, research purposes). The partnership runs through the Halloween season into the holiday period, making it perfect timing for both trick-or-treaters and gamers looking for collectible packaging.

Question 2: “Why Are Candy Companies Suddenly Interested in Gaming Partnerships?”

This is such a great question, and the answer reveals a lot about how gaming has become mainstream culture. From my perspective covering gaming for years, I’ve watched this trend develop from novelty to necessity. Candy companies like Hershey are recognizing that gamers represent a massive, engaged audience that spans all age groups.

Think about it – when I’m settling in for a long gaming session, whether it’s diving into IllFonic’s complete horror experience or grinding through ranked matches, snacks are essential. Hershey’s partnership isn’t just about slapping Mario on a wrapper; it’s about understanding gamer culture and consumption habits.

The numbers back this up too. Gaming is now a bigger industry than movies and music combined, and candy companies want a piece of that engagement. During my research, I discovered that Hershey’s OH HENRY! brand even launched in-game advertising campaigns, showing they’re serious about reaching gamers where we spend our time.

Question 3: “How Does This Compare to Other Gaming-Food Brand Collaborations?”

I’ve been tracking gaming-food collaborations for years, and Hershey’s approach stands out for several reasons. Remember when Mountain Dew and Doritos basically became the unofficial sponsors of gaming culture? That felt organic because it grew from community adoption. What Hershey is doing feels more strategic and thoughtful.

Other notable collaborations I’ve personally experienced include:

• Pokemon x various candy brands (those collectible chocolate bars were impossible to find!)
• Energy drink brands creating gaming-specific flavors
• Fast food chains offering gaming-themed meals with exclusive DLC codes
• Halloween gaming crossovers that blend entertainment properties perfectly

What makes the Hershey partnership unique is the timing with Halloween and the focus on family-friendly gaming properties. It’s not targeting the hardcore energy drink crowd – it’s bringing gaming culture to the mainstream candy aisle. This strategic approach mirrors successful recent gaming partnerships and announcements we’ve seen throughout the industry.

Question 4: “Are These Limited Edition Products Worth Collecting?”

As someone with an embarrassingly large collection of gaming memorabilia (my partner constantly reminds me we’re running out of shelf space), I can say these Hershey gaming products have legitimate collectible value. Here’s my take on their worth:

For Collectors: The packaging is genuinely well-designed, featuring high-quality Nintendo artwork that looks great on display. I’ve carefully preserved several unopened packages, and they’re already generating interest in collector communities.

For Gamers: Beyond the packaging, the Nintendo Switch sweepstakes adds real value. Even if you don’t win, you’re getting quality candy at regular prices with bonus gaming aesthetic.

For Halloween: These make perfect treats for trick-or-treaters who are gamers. I’m planning to hand out the fun-size versions this Halloween, and I know the neighborhood kids will go crazy for them.

Question 5: “What’s the Community Reaction to Candy-Gaming Crossovers?”

The gaming community’s reaction has been fascinatingly mixed, and I’ve been following discussions across Reddit, Discord, and gaming forums. Initially, there was skepticism – many gamers (myself included) worried this was just another corporate cash grab. However, the quality of the partnership has won over many skeptics.

On gaming subreddits, I’ve seen collectors sharing photos of complete sets, parents excited about sharing gaming culture with their kids through familiar candy brands, and nostalgic discussions about how this reminds older gamers of collecting Pokemon cards or cereal box prizes.

The most heartwarming reactions I’ve witnessed come from parents who use these products as conversation starters about gaming with their children. One Reddit post that stuck with me described a dad bonding with his daughter over Kit Kats while teaching her to play Mario Kart – that’s the real magic of these collaborations.

Question 6: “How Does This Tie Into Halloween Gaming Culture?”

Halloween and gaming have always had a special relationship, and adding candy collaborations creates a perfect trifecta. Every October, I look forward to special Halloween events in my favorite games – from Overwatch’s Halloween Terror to GTA Online’s spooky surprises. Now, with Hershey’s gaming partnerships coinciding with Halloween, we’re seeing a new dimension to seasonal gaming culture.

This year, I’m planning a Halloween gaming party where these Hershey gaming products will play a central role. Imagine: playing atmospheric horror gaming experiences while munching on Mario Kit Kats – it’s the perfect blend of nostalgia, gaming, and seasonal fun.

The timing couldn’t be better. Halloween is when casual audiences are most receptive to gaming content, and having recognizable candy brands feature gaming characters helps bridge that gap. It’s normalizing gaming culture in a way that feels natural and fun, much like how successful seasonal gaming events bring in new players.

Question 7: “Will We See More Candy-Gaming Partnerships in the Future?”

Based on the success I’m seeing with the Hershey-Nintendo collaboration, I’m confident we’ll see many more candy-gaming partnerships. Here’s what I predict for the future:

• More candy brands partnering with different gaming franchises
• Exclusive in-game items or DLC codes included with candy purchases
• Seasonal gaming candy releases beyond just Halloween
• Potential for candy-themed gaming content (imagine a Kit Kat level in Mario!)

I’ve already heard rumors through gaming industry contacts about other major candy manufacturers exploring similar partnerships. The success metrics from Hershey’s campaign will likely encourage competitors to jump in. This trend aligns with the broader expansion of gaming into mainstream consumer products and seasonal marketing strategies.

Question 8: “Where Can I Find These Products, and Are They Available Internationally?”

Finding these products has become a bit of a treasure hunt, which honestly adds to the fun! From my experience scouring stores across my area, here’s where I’ve had the most success:

Best locations in the US:

• Major grocery chains (Walmart, Target, Kroger)
• Gas stations and convenience stores (surprisingly good selection!)
• GameStop (some locations stock gaming-themed candy)
• Online retailers, though prices are often inflated

Unfortunately, international availability is limited. The Hershey-Nintendo partnership appears to be primarily US-focused, which has frustrated many of my international gaming friends. I’ve seen some appearing on import sites, but the markup is substantial. If you’re outside the US, your best bet might be asking American friends to ship some over (I’ve already sent packages to gaming buddies in Canada and the UK).

My Personal Take: Why This Matters for Gaming Culture?

After spending way too much money on candy this Halloween season (for journalism, I swear!), I’ve come to appreciate what these collaborations represent. They’re not just marketing gimmicks – they’re acknowledgment that gaming is now fundamental to pop culture.

When I was growing up, admitting you were a gamer often meant social exile. Now, Mario on a Kit Kat wrapper is considered cool and collectible. This shift didn’t happen overnight, and partnerships like Hershey’s with Nintendo are both a result of and contributor to gaming’s cultural dominance.

What really excites me is how these collaborations make gaming more accessible and less intimidating to newcomers. A parent who might never pick up a controller could still engage with gaming culture by buying their kid a special Halloween candy bar. It’s a gateway to conversations, shared experiences, and maybe even some family Mario Kart sessions.

2025 Tips for Making the Most of Gaming Candy Collaborations

Based on my experience collecting and enjoying these products, here are my top tips:

1. Start collecting early: These limited editions disappear fast, especially around Halloween
2. Check multiple stores: Distribution varies wildly between locations
3. Preserve packaging carefully: Use protective sleeves if you’re collecting
4. Enter sweepstakes immediately: Don’t wait – these promotions end quickly
5. Share with the community: Post finds on social media to help other collectors
6. Use them as gaming party favors: Perfect for Halloween gaming gatherings

Looking Ahead: Halloween 2025 and Beyond

As we head into Halloween 2025, I’m more excited than ever about the intersection of candy and gaming culture. The Hershey-Nintendo partnership has set a high bar for quality and authenticity in brand collaborations. It respects both the candy tradition of Halloween and the passionate gaming community.

I’ll be keeping a close eye on announcements for next year’s Halloween gaming partnerships. There are rumors of even bigger collaborations coming, possibly involving other major gaming franchises. Imagine Zelda-themed candy or Pokémon chocolate bars for Halloween – the possibilities are endless!

For now, I’m going to enjoy my stash of Mario Kit Kats while diving into some seasonal gaming content this Halloween. The combination of sweet treats and spooky games makes for the perfect October gaming setup, especially when paired with the growing library of horror and Halloween-themed gaming content available this season.

Final Thoughts from the Mailbag

Thanks for all your amazing questions about the Hershey Halloween gaming phenomenon! It’s been fascinating to explore how candy brands and gaming culture are merging in unexpected ways. This partnership represents more than just marketing – it’s a celebration of how gaming has become integral to our daily lives and seasonal traditions.

Whether you’re collecting these limited editions, using them for trick-or-treat handouts, or just enjoying some Mario Kit Kats during your gaming sessions, you’re participating in a unique moment in gaming history. Who would have thought that in 2025, we’d be discussing candy bars in a gaming context with such enthusiasm?

Keep sending your questions, and I’ll keep hunting down those exclusive gaming candy collaborations. Don’t forget to check out other gaming guides and community content on our site. Until next time, may your Halloween be filled with both sweet treats and epic gaming victories!

Remember, the best part about these collaborations isn’t just the collectible packaging or the sweepstakes – it’s how they bring together different aspects of pop culture we love. Gaming and candy might seem like an odd couple, but when you’re deep into a gaming marathon with friends, reaching for that Mario Kit Kat feels just right. Game on, and happy Halloween!