Pokemon’s mass market exposure will be on the rise in 2009, thanks to a new agreement announced this week between Pokemon USA, Inc. and Toys “R” Us. TRU stores nationwide have launched new display areas for all things Pokemon, including the TCG,  at the entrance to its videogame departments (“’R’ Zones”).  Toys “R” Us Times Square will boast a dedicated boutique for Pokemon, starting in April.

These special areas will highlight all types of Pokemon merchandise, including videogames, DVDs, toys, and the Pokemon TCG.

Featured products include Pokemon Platinum for the Nintendo DS, scheduled for release March 22, and the recently released Pokemon Platinum base set for the TCG (see “Pokemon TCG: Platinum”).

Toys will include both Jakks toys and the first U.S. release of any Tomy Pokemon products. 

TRU will also host several video game events throughout the year; one is currently ongoing and runs until Feb. 14, and another is scheduled for spring.