Pogs, also known as milk caps, are small, round discs that gained popularity in the 1990s as a collectible game. Originally used as seals for gallons of milk produced by the Maui-based company, Haleakala, Pogs became a cultural phenomenon and a staple in the lives of many children and young adults during that time.
The name “POG” actually comes from the acronym for Passion Orange Guava, a popular drink produced by Haleakala. The company had a line of dairy products, and Pogs were initially used as seals for their milk containers. However, it was the introduction of Pogs into the world of games and collectibles that truly sparked their widespread popularity.
The Pog craze took off when the World POG Federation and the Canada Games Company rebranded and reintroduced the discs in the 1990s. Pogs were suddenly everywhere, from being handed out as promotional items for opening bank accounts to being included in McDonald’s Happy Meals. The simple joy of collecting and trading these small, colorful discs captured the imaginations of many.
Pogs themselves are flat, circular cardboard discs, typically measuring around 1.5 inches in diameter. The top side of the Pogs often featured various pop culture graphics or characters, making them visually appealing to collectors of all ages. Some Pogs even showcased popular brands or logos on their backsides.
To play the game, players would stack their Pogs face down and take turns striking the stack with a heavier disc known as a metal slammer. The goal was to flip as many Pogs as possible, and any flipped Pogs would be added to the striker’s collection. The game was simple yet addictive, and collecting different designs and characters became a popular hobby.
In addition to the cardboard Pogs, metal slammers were another essential component of the game. Slammers were sturdier and slightly larger than Pogs, usually made of metal or plastic. Players would use the slammers to strike the stack of Pogs, aiming to flip as many Pogs as possible. The weight and design of the slammer could affect the outcome of the game, adding an element of strategy and skill.
Although the Pog craze eventually faded away, there has been a recent resurgence of interest in these nostalgic collectibles. A new mobile augmented reality (AR) game, officially licensed by the World POG Federation, is currently being crowdfunded on Indiegogo. Early backers of the game have the opportunity to receive a limited edition golden slammer that can be uploaded and used in virtual Pog games.
Whether you were a dedicated collector during the 1990s Pog craze or are just discovering these colorful discs now, Pogs hold a special place in the hearts of many. The game and the collectibles connected people, sparked imagination, and created a sense of joy and camaraderie. With the revival of Pogs through the new AR game, a new generation can experience the excitement and nostalgia associated with these iconic collectibles.
What Were Pogs Used For?
POGs were originally used as seals for gallons of milk produced by Haleakala, a dairy company based in Maui. These round discs were specifically used to seal the company’s line of dairy products, including a drink called Passion Orange Guava. Over time, POGs gained popularity and became collectible items that were traded and played with by children and even adults. Here are some key points about the use of POGs:
1. Sealing: POGs were primarily used as seals for the company’s dairy products, ensuring the freshness and quality of the contents inside the gallon jugs.
2. Haleakala’s product: POGs were associated with the Passion Orange Guava drink produced by Haleakala. This refreshing beverage was a popular choice among consumers.
3. Collectibles: As POGs gained popularity, they transformed from mere seals into collectible items. People started trading, collecting, and playing games with these round discs.
4. Game pieces: POGs were often used as game pieces in a game called “Milk Caps.” Players would stack the POGs face-down and use a larger disc, called a slammer, to slam onto the stack and flip the POGs. The player who flipped the most POGs won the game.
5. Trading and collecting: POGs became a craze in the 1990s, with various designs and themes available. People would trade and collect POGs, showcasing their collections and seeking rare or unique designs.
Although POGs were initially used as seals for Haleakala’s dairy products, they quickly became collectible items and game pieces, providing hours of fun and entertainment for children and adults alike.
What Were Pogs In The 90s?
Pogs were a popular collectible item in the 1990s. Originally, milk caps were used to seal glass bottles of milk. However, in the 1990s, the World POG Federation and the Canada Games Company reintroduced them as a game called Pogs.
Pogs were small round cardboard discs, typically about 1.5 inches in diameter. They were decorated with various designs, including popular characters from TV shows, movies, and video games. The game involved players stacking their Pogs face down and then using a heavier disc, known as a slammer, to try and flip over as many Pogs as possible.
The Pog fad quickly gained popularity and reached its peak in the mid-1990s. Pogs became a cultural phenomenon, with kids and adults alike collecting and trading them. They were often given away as promotional items, such as in McDonald’s Happy Meals or as incentives for opening bank accounts.
The resurgence of Pogs had a significant impact on popular culture during this time. Kids would bring their collections to school and trade with their friends, creating a sense of excitement and competition. Pog tournaments and championships were organized, further fueling the craze.
However, like many fads, the popularity of Pogs eventually waned. By the late 1990s, interest in Pogs had significantly declined, and the craze faded away. Today, Pogs are still remembered as a nostalgic symbol of the 90s and the boom of collectible crazes.
Do Pogs Still Exist?
Pogs still exist, and they are making a comeback with a new mobile augmented reality (AR) game. The game is currently being crowdfunded on Indiegogo and has received official licensing from the World POG Federation.
Here are some key points to note about the return of Pogs:
1. Mobile AR Game: The revival of Pogs comes in the form of a new mobile AR game. This means that players can use their smartphones or tablets to play Pogs in a virtual environment.
2. Crowdfunding Campaign: The game’s development is being supported through a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. Early backers of the project have the opportunity to receive exclusive rewards, such as a limited edition golden slammer.
3. Official Licensing: The World POG Federation, which is the governing body for Pogs, has officially licensed the new mobile AR game. This ensures that the game is authentic and aligns with the original Pogs concept.
4. Limited Edition Golden Slammer: Early backers of the crowdfunding campaign have the chance to receive a limited edition golden slammer. This special slammer can be uploaded and used in virtual Pogs games within the mobile AR game.
The Pogs phenomenon is experiencing a revival through the introduction of a new mobile AR game. This game is officially licensed by the World POG Federation, and early backers of the crowdfunding campaign can receive exclusive rewards, including a limited edition golden slammer.
What Are Pogs And Slammers?
Pogs and slammers are popular collectible items from the 1990s. Pogs are flat circular cardboard discs, often featuring various pop culture graphics or characters printed on the top side. The back side of Pogs can be left blank or display a brand’s logo.
On the other hand, slammers are sturdier metal discs, slightly larger than Pogs. They are typically used to strike or “slam” into a stack of Pogs during gameplay. Slammers are made of metal to provide the necessary weight and force to flip the Pogs in the stack.
Conclusion
POGs are collectible round discs that gained popularity in the 1990s and are now making a comeback. Originally used to seal gallons of milk produced by Haleakala, POGs became a cultural phenomenon when they were reintroduced by the World POG Federation and the Canada Games Company. These flat circular cardboard discs, called POGs, often featured popular graphics or characters on the top side, while the back side was either left blank or displayed a brand’s logo. Slammers, on the other hand, are sturdy metal discs that are slightly larger than POGs. POGs were widely distributed during the fad’s peak in the mid-1990s, even being included in McDonald’s Happy Meals and given out as promotional items. Now, with the launch of an officially licensed mobile AR game, POGs are once again gaining attention. Early backers of the game receive a limited edition golden slammer that they can upload and use in virtual games. With their nostalgic appeal and collectible nature, POGs continue to captivate enthusiasts and provide a fun and interactive gaming experience.
