Silicon Valley toy company Nukotoys has launched two new “Nuko-powered” mobile games based on Discovery Communications’ Animal Planet and the New York Times’ Ology book series.

The “Animal Planet Wildlands” and “Monsterology” educational apps merges physical toys with mobile games through the use of Nukos–collectible trading cards that come to life when tapped to the screen of iOS devices.

“We’re creating intelligent toys for kids that magically interact with an iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch,” says Doug Penman, founder and co-chief executive officer, Nukotoys. “We see this as an incredible opportunity to pave a new path for the toy industry and believe the entertaining and educational content from Discovery Communications’ Animal Planet and Candlewick Press’ Monsterology is perfect for introducing this engaging new blend of virtual and physical play.”

In “Animal Planet Wildlands” kids are whisked into a 3D savannah where they

collect, trade, interact with and learn about exotic animals, as well as view Animal Planet videos.

In “Monsterology,” based on the New York Times’ Ology book series published by Candlewick Press, kids unleash mythological creatures including a cyclops, a sea serpent and a unicorn, on the quest to become Master Monsterologists.

Both the “Animal Planet Wildlands” and “Monsterology” apps are available now at the Apple iOS App Store. Packs of Nuko cards are now available at Apple stores and other retailers nationwide, including Toys ‘R’ Us, Target and Walmart.