The theatrical release of Toy Story 3 is just around the corner and there are a bunch of new toys in the toy box. Pixar is the reigning king when it comes to detailed CGI animation and their first Toy Story really showed that mainstream audiences were ready to soak in as much of it as they could.

Today we have a handy guide to all fourteen new characters in Toy Story 3 for you to enjoy. Check out all of them then let us know what you think in the comments section.

Toy Story 1 came out in 1995 and enjoyed a very successful run at the box office, both critically and financially, to the tune of $362 million worldwide. Four years later, the “toys were back in town” with Toy Story 2 and they brought along a few new characters with them. Again, Toy Story 2 basked in a glowing worldwide box office success of $485 million. There was no doubt about the popularity of the franchise, as it spawned numerous toy tie-ins, video games, cartoons and even a specialized high-tech ride at the Disney theme park.

The toys were so popular that Disney/Pixar decided to re-release both films in converted 3D, but that only brought in a measly $31 million. It’s ok though, because Toy Story 3 comes out to play this summer and I have no doubt that it will easily knock down the $485 million mark set by its older sibling (of course higher 3D ticket prices will play a big part in that).

So, without further ado, I'll introduce you to the new characters featured in Toy Story 3:

Toy Story 3 Lots-'o-Huggin' Bear

Lots-o’Huggin’ Bear is a jumbo, extra-soft teddy bear with a pink and white plush body and a velvety purple nose. This lovable bear stands fuzzy heads and shoulders above other teddy bears because he smells like sweet strawberries! With a smile that will light up your child’s face and a belly just asking to be hugged, Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear is sure to become a bedtime necessity. Stain-resistant. Spot clean plush surface with a damp cloth.

Continue on to Peas-in-a-Pod

Toy Story 3 Peas-in-a-pod

Peas-in-a-Pod will quickly become a parent’s favorite on-the-go toy. The soft, plush pod secures the happy peas inside with a durable metal zipper, making it perfect for the car or stroller. The Peas-in-a-Pod plush toy also develops fine motor skills by catering to a child’s natural grab instinct. Pulling the three peas out of the pod will provide repeated enjoyment for infants and toddlers, and soon they’ll learn to put them back in! Machine washable. Not for human consumption.

Continue on to Ken

Toy Story 3 Ken

Grab your binoculars and join Ken on a safari! A swinging bachelor who’s always on the lookout for fun, Ken sports the perfect outfit for his eco-adventure: light blue shorts and a leopard-print shirt with short sleeves sure to keep him cool in the hot sun. And after his exciting expedition, Ken will be ready to hit the dance floor in style. His accessories include matching scarf, sensible loafers, and a fashion-forward gold belt. Dozens of additional Ken outfits sold separately.

Continue on to Buttercup

Toy Story 3 Buttercup

Saddle up for fun and let Buttercup lead your child away on a magical adventure! This cuddly unicorn features velvety-soft, snow-colored fur with sparkly gold and pink accents. He sports a signature mythical golden horn and a fun-to-comb mane and tail. Buttercup’s durable plastic eyes are both charming and scratch-resistant. Hypo-allergenic. Ages 3 and up.

Continue on to Trixie

Toy Story 3 Trixie

Trixie is a perfect playmate for prehistoric playtime! Visit the era when dinosaurs ruled the Earth! Made of rigid, durable plastic and in friendly shades of blue and purple, Trizie features an expressive mouth and movable legs. This gentle Triceratops will feed any child’s imagination. Also available: Tyrannosaurus Rx, Stegosaurus and Velociraptor.

Continue on to Twitch

Toy Story 3 Twitch

Meet Twitch, the insectaloid warrior, where MAN + INSECT= AWESOME! This sturdy action figure stands over five inches tall, with more than 15 points of articulation, including ferocious chomping mandibles. Use his powerful wings and impenetrable exoskeleton to evade capture! Twitch is meticulously detailed and includes his signature magical battle staff and removable chest armor. For children ages 4 and up. Other insectaloid figures sold separately.

Continue on to Stretch

Toy Story 3 Stretch

Stretch is a fun-loving under-the-sea octopus friend that shines in glittery purple. Kids can count her eight rubbery legs and dozens of sticky suckers that are sure to stand up to rough-and-tumble play and extreme stretching. Toss her high on the wall and watch her climb her way down! Clean in mild soap solution to remove dust and lint.

Continue on to Sparks

Toy Story 3 Sparks

Sparks will fly – literally- during electrifying playtimes with your new robot friend Sparks! This retro-inspired toy has flashing red LED eyes and a blaster cavity that actually spits out real sparks when he’s rolled along on his sturdy rubber wheels. Sparks also sports telescoping arms with working pincers, and an elevator action that raises his entire body to new heights. Sparking action completely child-safe. Requires two AA batteries (not included).

Continue on to learn about Dolly

Toy Story 3 Dolly

Dolly is a soft and sweet dress-up rag doll, and is the perfect gift for any young child! Her floppy body and sunny smile will make her an irresistible new member of your family. Dolly has purple hair, googly eyes and gently blushing cheeks. She comes with a pretty blue dress, but templates are included to create and sew your own outfits! Machine washable on gentle cycle.

Continue on to Mr. Pricklepants

Toy Story 3 Mr. Pricklepants

Frolic your afternoons away on woodland adventures with Mr. Pricklepants! This charming lederhosen-wearing hedgehog is from the Waldfreunde collection of premium imported plush toys. He may look prickly, but the plump and fuzzy Mr. Pricklepants is made strictly for cuddling! Hand was and air dry. Restore fluffiness with fingers. Made in Germany.

Continue on to Chunk

Toy Story 3 Chunk

Chunk will rock your world! This gargantuan creature sports protective shoulder spikes, while his ferocious fists are ready to smash whatever enemy gets in his way. Chunk’s oversized limbs are fully poseable, making him ready for hours of imaginative fun. As an added bonus, the press of a hidden head spike will spin Chunk's facial expression from friendly to fierce! No batteries necessary.

Continue on to Chatter

Toy Story 3 Chatter

Ring-ring! The Fisher-Price Chatter Telephone is a classic pull toy that has been inspiring giggles for many generations, while building motor skills and balance. Preschoolers can’t resist the friendly face with eyes that move up and down when they pull the toy along, and the bright colors and pleasing sounds keep them happy and engaged. Chatter Telephone is ideal for the little hands in your life.

Continue on to Big Baby

Toy Story 3 Big Baby

Your little one will love this lifelike baby doll with his soft, cuddly fabric body and vinyl arms, legs and face. With dazzling blue eyes that open and close, this realistic baby encourages nurturing play. Eighteen inches tall, he comes dressed in an adorable yellow onesie with matching bonnet, and has his own magical bottle of milk that disappears while he drinks! A perfect first doll for your special child. Machine washable on gentle cycle. Flame retardant.

Continue on to Bookworm

Story time becomes extra special when Bookworm joins the fun! This bedtime reading companion encourages your child’s love of reading, while keeping them company with his happy smile. Bookworm’s sturdy flashlight features an extra-long-lasting light bulb, bright enough to read by without causing eyestrain. Two C batteries included. Ages 4 and up.

Continue on to the Final Poster

Toy Story 3 Final Poster

This is the last poster and it’s a beautiful new one sheet for Toy Story 3 that shows us all of the old characters and the new characters together for the first time. This looks to be a great, fun, family film and I for one can’t wait to take my daughter to go see it.

What are your thoughts on the new cast of characters and are you looking forward to Toy Story 3?

Toy Story 3 opens in theaters everywhere June 18th, 2010.

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