Monthly Archives: February 2009

Toy Fair 2009: Kamen Rider Dragon Knight

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as it was bound to happen, we finally get some new toys based on Kamen Rider Dragon Knight (or Kamen Rider Ryuki) here’s the presser for the new toys.
EDIT: you can now view photos of the products here.

Bandai America Inc. introduces Kamen Rider Dragon Knight – a toy line that empowers boys 6+ to defend the world from General Xaviax, an evil warlord from a parallel dimension. Inspired by the television series produced by Adness Entertainment Co., Ltd., Bandai’s dynamic toy line captures the many action-packed elements that combine to make Kamen Rider Dragon Knight one of the year’s hottest up-and-coming properties for boys.

Based on one of Japan’s most successful franchises with over 38 years as a top-rated show, Kamen Rider Dragon Knight premiered early January 2009 on TheCW4Kids Saturday morning kids block. The series airs in HD, making the show’s fast-paced action sequences and stunning CGI special effects appear life-like. The show’s young and talented cast, featuring actors Stephen Lunsford and Matthew Mullins, draws upon their talent as mixed martial arts athletes to add even more excitement to the series.

The story follows the heroic adventures of teenager Kit Taylor, who discovers a mysterious deck of Advent Cards that grant him the power to transform into a warrior known as a Kamen Rider. Kit joins Kamen Rider Wing Knight to battle the renegade warlord General Xaviax and his army in both the real world and a parallel world called Ventara, or Mirror World. “As one of the most popular and successful live-action series of all time for kids in Japan, the Kamen Rider Dragon Knight series is sure to captivate its U.S. audience with its mixed-martial arts and cycle inspired themes,” said Danielle Armbrust, director of marketing, Bandai America Inc. “The result is an exhilarating story line packed with characters, vehicles and weapons that naturally translates into a toy lineup appealing to boys.” Available at major retailers July 2009, Bandai America’s Kamen Rider Dragon Knight line features:

  • 4″ Collectible Figures: Styled after the armored warriors on the Kamen Rider Dragon Knight TV show, each highly detailed 4″ collectible action figure includes its own unique weapon accessory so kids can defeat General Xaviax’s evil army.
  • Kamen Rider Deluxe Weapons: Kids can bring the excitement of Kamen Rider to life with the Dragon Knight Dragvisor or Kamen Rider Advent Belt Deluxe Weapons.
    • The Dragon Knight Dragvisor includes three Advent cards. In the series, the mysterious Advent Cards are the source of the Kamen Riders’ special powers and attacks. Just as the cards do in the series, the toy line’s Advent Cards hold a unique power. Each Advent Card summons the power of Kamen Rider to unlock sound effects on the Dragvisor, for a total of 15 unique sounds. Every item in the toy line features an Advent Card – kids unlock all of the Dragvisor’s hidden sounds features by completing their collection of Kamen Rider figures, cycles and role-play toys.
    • The Advent Belt features the same turbo spinning action as seen on the TV show! Pick your favorite Rider Card and insert into the Advent Belt to initiate into Rider mode, complete with light and sound effects.
  • Deluxe Figure Set: Sets include a 4″ Rider figure in civilian mode and their corresponding Kamen Rider Contract Beast. With the Dragreder, Black Wing, and Magnugiga Contract Beasts with civilian figures, kids can recreate their own Kamen Rider excitement. The Contract Beasts attach to the 4″ collectible Rider figures to create unique and dramatic attack poses.
  • Deluxe Rider Set: Throughout the TV show, Kamen Rider Dragon Knight and Kamen Rider Wing Knight rely on their cycles to battle against Xaviax and his army. Kids can play out their own adventures with the same cycles as seen on the show. Each Kamen Rider bike includes a 4″ Rider figure and features either red or blue illuminating LED lights. Kids can create a custom look by attaching the translucent special effect pieces to the bike.

Toy Fair 2009: G.I. Joe

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More News from Toyfair: this time from the G.I. Joe side. Here’s what Hisstank.com is saying from the presentation

new 25th/Modern Era figures: B.A.T. (possibly the battle damage one we saw last year), Recondo, Chuckles, Hit & Run, Outback, Dr. Mindbender, Range Viper, Alley Viper, Night Viper, Strato Viper, Wet Suit & Altitude http://toynewsi.com/index.php?itemid=14092
The figures in question will be part of a 7 pack to be released later. Here’s the breakdown of each pack:
+Assault On Cobra Island: Outback, Hit & Run, Chuckles, Recondo, Wetsuit, Zap and SPC Altitude.
+Defense Of Cobra Island: Alley Viper, Bat, Dr. Mindbender, Lampreys, Night Creeper, Range Viper and Stratos Viper.

Rise of Cobra figures:
Wave 2 will consist of: Unmasked Storm Shadow, Duke in Black Suit (ether an accelerator suit or his regular black garb), Deep Six, & Snake Eyes w/Trenchcoat & Timber!
A Cobra Gunship was shown. This helicopter is part of the bravo vehicle assortment.
The Night Raven has a fold-up handle, comes with Strato-Viper(listed as Air Viper), and has traditional box art packaging. The PIT will have 84 pegs for figures to stand on, comes in a 2ft high x 3ft wide box, has traditional box art packaging as well as TONS of fan nods!

http://photos.yojoe.com/showgallery.php?cat=625

Yojoe.com has a gallery set up for toy fair, check back preiodicaly for pictures.

http://www.gijoeclub.com/toyfair09/

The official G.I. Joe club has pictures from the Rise of the Cobra line, including our first look at movie Snake-Eyes in 3.75in form

http://toynewsi.com/index.php?itemid=14105

toynews international has the G.I. Joe Presentation up for listening if your interested.

Toy Fair 2009: Transformers

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hey folks! we got our first new pictures and info from the Transformers Revenge of the Fallen and Transformers Animated direct from Hasbro.

http://www.transformersclub.com/toyfair09/TFmainline09.html
-this is from the official Transformers club website and it shows off many press pictures from Hasbro. http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/transformers-news-from-toyfare/15175/
-This is a general rundown of what went down at The Transformers presentation today. The Highlights include: -Transformers Animated Season 3 to start in March. -a repaint animated soundwave -nearly all the ROTF Devistaor pieces will be voyager class and a gift set will be released later at a $100 dollar price point. http://www.transformersclub.com/toyfair09/TFkids09.html
-Hasbro has posted pictures from their kids lines such as Robot Heroes, Fast Action Battlers, Roleplaying items and the new Gravity Bots line.
http://tformers.com/transformers-toy-fair-2009-animated-arcee-electrostatic-soundwave-s3-hits-tv-in-march/10982/news.html
Tformers.com has pictures of the repainted Soundwave and the new Arcee figure. http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-movie-toys–products-30/more-high-res-rotf-images-from-hasbro-166812/ TFW2005 has some impressive high res pictures from the presentation yesterday.

Stay Tune to the Plastic Joint for more news and keep refreshing this post for more Transformers News from Toy Fair 2009

Toy Fair 2009: Hasbro’s G.I. Joe press release

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Paramount Pictures and Hasbro, Inc. have reunited to create another worldwide blockbuster franchise, this time featuring the action, adventure, and characters from the legendary “G.I. JOE VS. COBRA” saga. Hitting U.S. theaters on August 7, 2009, “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” focuses on an elite G.I. JOE team that uses the latest in next-generation spy and military equipment to fight the corrupt arms dealer DESTRO and the growing threat of the mysterious COBRA organization to prevent them from plunging the world into chaos.

Hasbro created the action figure category in 1964 when it launched its G.I. JOE toy line. Over the course of its 45 year history, the brand has evolved delivering different adventures to generations of kids. The popular “G.I. JOE VS. COBRA” saga, which the movie and upcoming toy line are based on, originated in the early 1980s and followed the heroic G.I. JOE team as they battled the menacing COBRA organization. This era of G.I. JOE featured 95 TV episodes and 155 comic books in just the first series alone and has since produced over 450 distinct pieces of G.I. JOE content, including such memorable characters as DUKE, SNAKE EYES, SCARLETT, the BARONESS and STORM SHADOW; names that will be synonymous with action and adventure again in 2009 as the G.I. JOE VS. COBRA fantasy is reinvented for a new generation.

Hasbro’s 2009 G.I. JOE toy line allows fans of all ages to capture the excitement of the live-action movie and recreate it in their own homes. With dozens of first-class action figures that resemble their on-camera characters, the figures can navigate several awesome vehicles from the film, including jets, tanks, and other all-terrain vehicles, some featuring lights, sounds, and hidden weapons systems. The toy line also includes the ultimate G.I. JOE play set based on the PIT – the fortress headquarters for the G.I. JOE team – which features a multi-level, expandable set equipped with sounds and moving elevator. And for those wanting to engage in role-play fun, Hasbro offers the SNAKE EYES ROLE PLAY SET, which includes a mask and Ninja sword.

Yo JOE!

The G.I. JOE 2009 line includes: G.I. JOE MOVIE 3-3/4-INCH MOVIE FIGURES (Approximate retail price: $7.99: Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) The first-ever live-action G.I. JOE movie won?t hit theaters until August 2009, but you don’t need to wait until then to see the stars from the movie cast as G.I. JOE characters. G.I. JOE invented the action figure category 45 years ago, and the movie-line 3-3/4-inch action figures continue this great legacy. All figures are sculpted to match their on-screen counterparts, including Sienna Miller as BARONESS, and Channing Tatum as DUKE. Figures come with high-tech gear and projectile launchers, allowing for play among multiple waves that are set to be released in 2009, starting in July.

G.I. JOE MOVIE PIT PLAY SET (Approximate retail price: $99.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) Prepare for battle in the first-ever play set that recreates the fortress headquarters for G.I. JOE. Known throughout the G.I. JOE comics, animated series and now live-action movie as the underground command center of the G.I. JOE team, The Pit serves as the characters? training facility, living quarters and heavy equipment storage facility. The state-of-the-art expandable multi-level play set is equipped with sounds, an elevator and much more. It even includes an exclusive 3-3/4-inch General Hawk figure (not obtainable anywhere else) to begin the recruitment of your very own G.I. JOE team.

G.I. JOE MOVIE VEHICLES CLASS A (Approximate retail price: $15.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) These are the smallest and most covert of the G.I. JOE vehicles made for the 3-3/4-inch movie figures. Outfitted with universal projectiles and launchers and a surprise attack feature, these stealth vehicles also come with a realistic articulated driver that will help guide you through your action-packed adventures.

G.I. JOE MOVIE VEHICLES CLASS B (Approximate retail price: $24.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) This collection recreates the larger vehicles from the upcoming G.I. JOE movie. Each represents the most technologically advanced vehicles in the G.I. JOE vs. COBRA arsenal and is equipped with a hidden reveal weapons system. Designed to traverse a wide range of terrains, each vehicle comes with an action figure to help steer your squadron to victory.

G.I. JOE MOVIE NIGHT RAVEN VEHICLE (Approximate retail price: $39.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) Based on the iconic jet from the 1980s and playing a big role in the upcoming movie, the COBRA NIGHT RAVEN comes fully loaded, with an array of engines, weapons, lights and sounds. The largest vehicle in the entire new G.I. JOE vehicle series, this jet also features a pump action “Lock and Load” system that readies the missiles for attack. Manning the controls in this ultimate G.I. JOE movie vehicle is a 3-3/4-inch Air-Viper figure.

G.I. JOE MOVIE 12-INCH NINJA FIGURES (Approximate retail price: $22.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) With all the stealth of a ninja come the 12-inch versions of SNAKE EYES and STORM SHADOW, two of the most feared and respected characters in the G.I. JOE vs. COBRA saga. The deluxe expressions of these iconic movie figures include weapons, soft goods and battle actions that activate electronic sounds – a must for all ninja warriors in training.

G.I. JOE MOVIE 12-INCH CHARACTER FIGURES (Approximate retail price: $15.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available Summer 2009) Inspired by the original 12-inch G.I. JOE figures from the 60s and 70s, the 12-inch movie character figures are highly articulated and feature weapons and apparel that match the characters from the film.

G.I. JOE MOVIE ACCELERATOR SUIT DUKE (Approximate retail price: $69.99; Ages: 5 & up; Available: Summer 2009) This unique figure captures the spirit of the G.I. JOE team leader and all of the technology needed to fight the COBRA forces. The ACCELERATOR SUIT DUKE figure comes equipped with the armored accelerator suit that DUKE wears during a soon-to-be-classic scene from the upcoming G.I. JOE movie. When activated using an easy hand grip control, DUKE simulates his accelerator running motion, with motorized head, torso and arm movements as well as lights and speech with more than 50 phrases. With the ACCELERATOR SUIT DUKE figure, kids will be able to “run” with DUKE and play out their favorite scenes from the movie or create their own new G.I. JOE missions.

G.I. JOE MOVIE SNAKE EYES ROLE PLAY SET (Approximate retail price: $24.99; Ages: 5 & up; Available: Summer 2009) Gear up and get ready to take on the role of everyone?s favorite Ninja from the G.I. JOE team. With the SNAKE EYES katana-style sword, which features special lights, sounds and a secret dart launcher hidden in the handle and SNAKE EYES mask, kids can play the part of their Ninja hero.

G.I. JOE MOVIE TOUGH TROOPERS (Approximate retail price: $22.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Summer 2009) Tough enough for any G.I. JOE in training, the trooper figures are perfect for crash and bash play. Each figure has lights, fighting action sounds, and arm slashing action.

G.I. JOE MOVIE COMBAT HEROES (Approximate retail price: $6.99; Ages: 3 & up; Available: Summer 2009) The G.I. JOE team continues its COMBAT HEROES action figures in 2009. Featuring cute, cartoonish styling of classic G.I. JOE vs. COBRA characters, these figures are smaller than their traditional counterparts and are perfect for both collectors and young ones new to the G.I. JOE regiment. Check back tomorrow for full coverage of the Hasbro showroom from the New York Toy Fair.

Toy Fair 2009: Hasbro’s Transformers

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HASBRO’S TRANSFORMERS BRAND CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF “ROBOTS IN DISGUISE” 2009 TRANSFORMERS Universe and Animated Toy Lines Combine Brand’s Rich Heritage With “MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE” Fun for Fans of All Ages

PAWTUCKET, R.I., (February 2009) – Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS) revolutionized the action figure category 25 years ago with the launch of the MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE toys known as TRANSFORMERS. And while the TRANSFORMERS brand 25th anniversary celebration reaches its zenith on June 26, 2009 with the release of the action-packed movie TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN, the brand has even more excitement to offer fans beyond the new film, including its TRANSFORMERS UNIVERSE and TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED toy lines.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the ROBOTS IN DISGUISE, Hasbro is “rolling out” dozens of TRANSFORMERS UNIVERSE toys that showcase the innovation and depth that have been synonymous with the toy line since its inception. Featuring numerous styles and varying levels of complexity, Hasbro’s 2009 TRANSFORMERS UNIVERSE toy line will appeal to a growing fan base that – after 25 years – spans multiple generations. While the toy line will include popular characters kids will recognize from current and recent entertainment, the line also pays homage to the brand’s roots with many classic ‘bots from its extensive stories and unique mythology.

Of course, much of TRANSFORMERS’ popularity remains rooted in its origin: over-the-top animation that shows the ongoing feud between the AUTOBOTS and the DECEPTICONS. Launched last year, Cartoon Network’s new TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED series continues the animation tradition with fantastic storylines that feature favorite characters like OPTIMUS PRIME, BUMBLEBEE and even MEGATRON. The new TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED line of toys lets kids experience the adventure in the playroom as they recreate scenes from the weekly show using a number of exciting, new action figures.

For the more mature fans who want to commemorate the 25th anniversary of TRANSFORMERS, Hasbro is expanding its popular line of MIGHTY MUGGS vinyl collectibles to include – for the first time – TRANSFORMERS characters such as OPTIMUS PRIME, MEGATRON and several of their robotic cohorts. First introduced in 1984 by Hasbro and Takara as a toy line, TRANSFORMERS has become a global entertainment property inspiring comic books, video games, animated series, a blockbuster movie and even a convention dedicated to TRANSFORMERS collectors. Yet its popularity remains rooted in its original premise – toys that change from robots into every imaginable kind of vehicle.

TRANSFORMERS: 25th Anniversary products available in Spring 2009
TRANSFORMERS UNIVERSE 25th ANNIVERSARY FIGURES – DELUXE AND VOYAGER Approximate Retail price: DELUXE scale $12.99; VOYAGER scale $22.99; Ages 5 & up; Available: First waves in January 2009, with additional waves released throughout spring.
The TRANSFORMERS UNIVERSE 25th Anniversary line features DELUXE and VOYAGER assortments with new versions of incredibly detailed, realistically styled, but classic versions of familiar characters from the past 25 years. There will be ten new DELUXE figures including DINOBOT from the BEAST WARS series and four new VOYAGER figures including OVERLOAD from the CYBERTRON series.

TRANSFORMERS: ANIMATED products available in 2009
TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED FIGURES – DELUXE AND VOYAGER Approximate Retail price: DELUXE scale $12.99; VOYAGER scale $22.99; Ages 5 & up; Available: First waves in January 2009, with additional waves released throughout the year. Figures in the TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED DELUXE and VOYAGER assortment feature character conversions like those seen in the popular TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED series airing on Cartoon Network. Both assortments feature a variety of characters with exciting battle weapons and firing projectiles. Eleven characters, including BLURR and WASPINATOR, will be featured in the DELUXE LINE in 2009 while eight characters will be introduced in the VOYAGER LINE.
TRANSFORMERS ANIMATED FIGURES – ENTERTAINMENT PACK Approximate Retail Price: $22.99; Ages 5 & up; Available: January 1, 2009. The entertainment pack includes two deluxe-sized figures – twin brothers JETFIRE and JETSTORM – who combine to create SAFEGUARD. The brothers are the only AUTOBOTS who can fly and are the youngest Elite Guard members of all time. JETFIRE and JETSTORM will be showcased in new episodes of the Animated series debuting in Spring 2009.

Additional TRANSFORMERS products available in 2009
TRANSFORMERS MIGHTY MUGGS (Approximate Retail Price: $12.99; Ages 6 & up; Available: First waves in January 2009, with additional waves released throughout the year) The popular urban-style MIGHTY MUGGS line now showcases ROBOTS IN DISGUISE! Invading the world of TRANSFORMERS for the first time, MIGHTY MUGGS figures are ultra-hip vinyl collectibles that provide fun incarnations of many favorite characters from across the pop culture universe. TRANSFORMERS characters available in 2009 include OPTIMUS PRIME, MEGATRON, BUMBLEBEE and SOUNDWAVE.

About HASBRO
Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) is a worldwide leader in children’s and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, CRANIUM and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at http://www.hasbro.com . (C) 2009 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Toy Fair 2009 Hasbro Press Release

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Toy Fair 2009 is starting this Saturday, here’s Hasbro’s press release witch includes blurbs on Transformers Revenge of the Fallen, G.I. Joe Rise of Cobra, the Clone Wars Turbo Tank and many other toys for boys, girls and board game enthusiast.

Hasbro’s Toy Fair Offerings Showcase Powerful Brands and Wide Array of Entertainment Options in Traditional Toys and Games and Beyond Live action movies, comprehensive product offerings based on TRANSFORMERS and G.I. JOE properties launch in coming months

Toy Fair 2009 PAWTUCKET, R.I.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) comes to Toy Fair ’09 with a powerful and versatile portfolio of brands with a focus on providing unique forms of entertainment for children and families at a great value.

From board games to action figures, and from live action movies to online game play, Hasbro is focused on providing something for virtually every taste and age group to enjoy.any time, any where. Leading the way are the highly anticipated live-action movies, TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN, the follow-up to the 2007 blockbuster TRANSFORMERS; and G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA, based on Hasbro’s legendary G.I. JOE VS. COBRA saga. “Hasbro enters 2009 with an incredible array of entertainment and products for consumers of all ages,” said John Frascotti, Hasbro’s Chief Marketing Officer. “In challenging economic times, people often turn to brands and experiences that they know and trust. We are confident that many of our new and re-imagined brand offerings this year will resonate well with consumers around the world as we continue to inject creativity and innovation into some of the world’s most classic and popular brands.”

Brand highlights include:

BOYS GI JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA Movie Line In 1964, the introduction of Hasbro’s G.I. JOE line created the “action figure” category. Since then, the G.I. JOE property has evolved, delivering a unique brand of action for each new generation. This summer, fans of all ages will see the G.I. JOE franchise taken to the next level with the major motion picture release of G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA, on August 7, from Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Entertainment, in association with Hasbro. The film focuses on an elite G.I. JOE team that uses the latest in next-generation spy and military equipment to fight the corrupt arms dealer DESTRO and growing threat of the mysterious COBRA organization. Hasbro’s 2009 product line allows fans of all ages to capture the excitement of the movie and recreate it in their own homes. The line features dozens of action figures, vehicles based on the film and the SNAKE EYES ROLE PLAY SET, which gives fans the gear needed to “become” the legendary Ninja character.

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN Movie line This summer, the colossal battle between the AUTOBOTS and the DECEPTICONS continues when “ROBOTS IN DISGUISE” once again invade movie theaters around the world. The new DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures live-action movie TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN debuts June 26, 2009 and continues the story from the 2007 worldwide blockbuster film that finds two warring factions of robots colliding in a major battle on planet Earth. In 2009, Hasbro continues the legacy with its new line of movie-based TRANSFORMERS toys that capture the action and excitement of the new film. Fans will love the new action figures in multiple scales and kids can pretend to be a TRANSFORMERS robot by wearing the new BUMBLEBEE MOVIE VOICE MIXER HELMET. Additionally, coming in the fall, young fans will enjoy TRANSFORMERS R.P.M.’S MINI-VEHICLES, a new line of miniature, non-converting TRANSFORMERS-themed vehicles.

STAR WARS CLONE TURBO TANK (Approximate Retail Price: $99.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Fall 2009) The next generation of STAR WARS fans are being introduced to the STAR WARS galaxy via the must-see animated series STAR WARS: THE CLONE WARS airing on Cartoon Network. As a follow-up to the popular AT-TE vehicle that topped Christmas lists in 2008, the CLONE TURBO TANK is an enormous field vehicle from the animated series, designed to transport up to twenty clone troopers (sold separately) into battle. The TURBO TANK features electronic sounds, running lights, phrases from the animation, a hidden, launchable speeder bike and a removable command center.

WOLVERINE ELECTRONIC CLAW (Approximate Retail Price: $19.99; Ages: 4 & up; Available: Spring 2009) On May 1, 2009, Hugh Jackman reprises his highly praised portrayal of WOLVERINE in the new X-Men Origins: Wolverine movie from 20th Century Fox. Now you can pretend to be Wolverine, the next Marvel superhero to get the big-screen treatment. Slip on the WOLVERINE ELECTRONIC CLAW to act like the most intimidating of all the X-Men. The retractable claw includes iconic WOLVERINE phrases and sounds.

GIRLS FURREAL FRIENDS LULU, MY CUDDLIN’ KITTY (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $54.99/Available: Fall 09) The FURREAL FRIENDS brand launched in 2002 with the introduction of a lifelike cat and this fall, the brand returns to its roots with the introduction of LULU, MY CUDDLIN’ KITTY pet, the most realistic feline to join the family. The “purr-fect” pet for little girls, LULU, MY CUDDLIN’ KITTY pet features soft white and marmalade fur and preens, cuddles, and mews just like a “real” kitty cat. LULU, MY CUDDLIN’ KITTY loves to snuggle; gently rub her back and she will “purr” and “meow” to show that she is happy. Once she’s relaxed, LULU will roll over onto her back, indicating it’s time to have her tummy rubbed. Just like a “real” cat, LULU preens as she “licks” her little paw, then lifts it up to clean her adorable face.

ZAMBI THE BABY ELEPHANT, a special edition FURREAL FRIENDS plush toy (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99/ Available: Fall 09) Hasbro is introducing ZAMBI THE BABY ELEPHANT, a special edition FURREAL FRIENDS plush toy as the Company launches PROJECT ZAMBI, a global cause initiative dedicated to raising awareness and supporting programs that help care for the estimated 15 million children who have been orphaned as a result of the AIDS epidemic in Africa. ZAMBI THE BABY ELEPHANT features soft and cuddly ears and feet that are covered in a special fabric pattern designed by boys and girls from Zambia in one of the communities dedicated to caring for children orphaned by AIDS. Like the other animals in the FURREAL FRIENDS line of “come to life” plush pets, when you play with ZAMBI THE BABY ELEPHANT, he will play, blow kisses, raise his trunk, and trumpet his elephant call. He’ll also have a sensor on his trunk, so he can hold onto your finger and “shake” your hand. Hasbro has committed to donate a minimum of $500,000 (in U.S. dollars) to the PROJECT ZAMBI Fund, part of the Hasbro Children’s Fund, in 2009. This fund will benefit programs that help make life better for children orphaned by AIDS in Africa.

LITTLEST PET SHOP PLAYFUL PAWS PET DAYCARE CENTER (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Spring 09) The LITTLEST PET SHOP pets will love to gather at the PLAYFUL PAWS PET DAYCARE CENTER for an ultimate day full of fun! Pets will be amused for hours in this activity-filled two level playset. While spending time at the PLAYFUL PAWS PET DAYCARE CENTER, the LITTLEST PET SHOP pets can play on the jungle gym slide, take a spin on the perch or just relax on the basket swing – pets can even take a ride on the habitrail shaped elevator. After a day full of fun, tuckered out pets can get pampered and groomed at the second level salon or take a nap in their sleeping cubby. The PLAYFUL PAWS PET DAYCARE CENTER playset comes with an exclusive porcupine pet in addition to cool accessories, lots of storage space and easy portability for girls to display their LITTLEST PET SHOP collection anywhere.

MY LITTLE PONY NEWBORN CUTIES LITTLE RAINBOW DASH’S ROOM Playset (Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Spring 09) New this spring is the MY LITTLE PONY NEWBORN CUTIES line, an adorable new collection of figures and playsets that offers little girls a new way to play “mommy” to their baby ponies. After a day filled with pony-fun, NEWBORN RAINBOW DASH pony can’t wait to get back home to unwind at the MY LITTLE PONY NEWBORN CUTIES LITTLE RAINBOW DASH’S ROOM playset.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE BERRY CAFE Playset (Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available Fall 09) The STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE BERRY CAFE playset is the most popular hangout in BERRY BITTY CITY – it’s where STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE and her friends can gather for “snacks”, “smoothies”, and fun! Shaped like a strawberry with opening doors and windows, the two-story cafe also features STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE’s bedroom and includes a three-inch scented STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE MINI DOLL with removable fashion. The STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE BERRY CAFE playset comes complete with adorable accessories including furniture, pretend food, a spinning smoothie machine, a “flying” bird that STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE or her friends can ride, and more.

TWEEN NERF N-STRIKE RAIDER RAPID FIRE CS 35 (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available: Fall 09) As Hasbro’s iconic Nerf brand celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2009, get ready for the highest dart capacity NERF blaster yet. The NERF N-STRIKE RAIDER RAPID FIRE CS 35 is the next big thing from NERF’s popular N-STRIKE line of dart blasters and features a collapsible stock and new drum magazine that holds 35 darts and is interchangable with the NERF N-STRIKE RECON CS-6 and NERF N-STRIKE LONGSHOT CS-6. By holding the trigger and pumping, players can instantly transition between “single” fire and “slam” fire mode, unleashing a rapid stream of 35 darts. Complete with a removable shoulder stock and Tactical Rail System allowing players to customize their blaster for each mission, the NERF N-STRIKE RAIDER RAPID FIRE CS 35 also features a cool “digital camo” pattern unlike any NERF blaster before it.

SUPER SOAKER 50 (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.99/Available: Spring 09) Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iconic SUPER SOAKER brand with the re-launch of the original water blaster that revolutionized outdoor fun! The legendary SUPER SOAKER 50 blaster is back and better than ever as it combines a cool retro look with modern high-powered performance! The SUPER SOAKER 50 holds up to 25 ounces of water and blasts up to 35 feet.

PRESCHOOL PLAYSKOOL CLIPO HIPPO (Ages 18 months & up/Approx. Retail Price: $20.99/Available: Spring 09) The CLIPO system from PLAYSKOOL is a unique collection designed for toddlers that encourages creative, open ended play while helping to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The CLIPO system features colorful, chunky pieces in a variety of shapes and sizes perfect for little hands. An adorable new addition to the popular CLIPO line, the brightly-colored CLIPO HIPPO is set on wheels for stackable, moveable building fun.

KOTA & PALS MONTY REX Dino (Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $74.99/Available: Fall 09) Preschoolers will delight in the awesome animated MONTY REX dinosaur. Standing over 15-inches tall, this lifelike dino not only moves its head, tail, and arms, but also actually walks. Toddlers can enjoy fun filled adventures with this realistic T-Rex pal that responds to touch, roars back when spoken to, and dances along to four engaging onboard songs.

GAMES BOP-IT! (Ages: 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 1 or more; Batteries are included. Requires 3 AA) BOP-IT, which was first introduced in 1996, returns in 2009 with an updated look and new playing challenges. The game calls the shots, inviting players to shout, twist, pull or bop their way to victory. The game now features three tricky new levels and can be played by one or more players. Plus, in party mode, the game will challenge players to use different body parts, such as an elbow or head, to “bop” their way to the next round.

CANDY LAND: SWEET CELEBRATION game (Ages: 4 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 to 4) In honor of the 60th birthday of CANDY LAND, Hasbro introduces CANDY LAND: Sweet Celebration game, which invites players to a party at King Kandy’s castle. Children become the game designers as they create their own path to King Kandy’s castle with individual path pieces that link together to make up the freestanding game board . Travel to two new destinations in CANDY LAND – Captain Kidd Cone’s Ship, the SS Neapolitan, and the Chunky Chocolate Mountains – to find ice cream cones and chocolate treats galore.

CLUE: Secrets & Spies Edition (Ages: 9 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 to 5) As one of the world’s top six international secret agents (Scarlet, Mustard, Plum, Peacock, White or Green) your mission in the Clue Secrets & Spies game is to intercept agent Black and put an end to his evil plot for world-wide disaster and become the world’s ultimate spy. Using your secret decoder, reveal the secret missions you’ll need to complete. And always be aware of your mobile phone – you never know when headquarters will send you actual, game-changing text message directly to your personal, mobile phone. (Hasbro is committed to maintaining text messaging support through 12/31/11.)

CONNECT 4×4 Game (Ages: 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 to 4) CONNECT 4×4 enhances the classic four-in-a-row game with more competition and strategy in the first-ever four player edition. A clear double-decker checker grid replaces the standard grid, allowing players to win by playing four-in-a-row in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line on either side of the grid or by weaving through one side of the grid to the other. Look closely to find ways to connect the ringed checkers that may be unseen by your opponents. Or, act defensively and play the new block checker to prevent an opponent from scoring what might be a winning move.

GIRAFFALAFF LIMBO (Ages: 4 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 or more) GIRAFFALAFF LIMBO is the crazy new game of “how low can you go?” Spin the dial to try one of the 6 limbo styles: classic, crabwalk, crawl, giraffe walk, forward or backward. The game’s built-in sound will play an encouraging song as preschoolers try not to bump into GIRAFFALAFF. If GIRAFFALAFF is knocked over, he’ll roll on the floor in laughter.

HASBRO CARD GAMES (Approx. Retail Price: $5.99-$6.99/Available: Spring 2009) Four new Hasbro Card Games for kids and families are being introduced to the card game aisle in 2009. Make deals and build words in a flash with MONOPOLY DEAL and SCRABBLE SLAM Card Games (both recommended for ages 8 & up). Experience four favorite card games shuffled into one with CRAZY OLD FISH WAR Card Game and keep younger players engaged round after round with PICTUREKA! card game (both recommended for ages 7 & up).

MONOPOLY CITY (Ages: 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 to 6) Say goodbye to green houses and choose from over 80 3D structures, including industrial blocks, stadiums, skyscrapers and even parks built in the middle of the board to create a unique game experience. The introduction of MONOPOLY CITY represents one of the most radical game developments in MONOPOLY history. Set the length of game play and start buying and building right away. Rents can be boosted through investment, but beware of other players sabotaging the game by building hazards such as polluting power plants to send opponents’ rents plummeting.

PICTUREKA! FLIPPER Game (Ages: 6 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Fall 2009/Players: 2 or more/ Requires: 3 AA batteries, which are not included) PICTUREKA! FLIPPER incorporates the same find it fast, find it first fun of PICTUREKA! Standing tall in the center of the table, the 3-D penguin frantically flips small game tiles from its rotating base in a circular pattern onto the game table. Players then race to try and find the wacky drawings on the tiles that match the “mission cards” before the penguin “quacks” and places more tiles on the table.

TRIVIAL PURSUIT: TEAM Edition (Ages: 12 & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Fall 2009) Everyone is sure to have fun navigating the newest version of the world’s favorite trivia game: TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Team Edition. Instead of the traditional right or wrong questions found in previous versions of TRIVIAL PURSUIT, players will now have the opportunity to answer six different types of questions. And, for the first time ever, you can earn partial credit for answering the question mostly right. There’s no need to collect wedges for each category, just be the team ahead at the end of the game.

About HASBRO Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE:HAS) is a worldwide leader in children’s and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, CRANIUM and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at http://www.hasbro.com . (C) 2009 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Review: MoTUC Skeletor

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In the 80′s, you had your heroes and then you had your villains. G.I. Joe had General Hawk as the leader and de-facto hero of the story (or Duke or Flint, if your playing the cartoon continuity rules) and the evil ruthless organization known as Cobra as the enemy, lead by Cobra Commander as the villain. Transformers had that same Dichotomy with Optiums Prime as the leader of the Heroic Autobots and Megatron as the leader of the evil Decepticons. But there is one more of these rivalries Transcends mere factions and armies, but 2 dynamic forces crashing and clashing on each other for the fate of the universe it self. On one side, is He-Man and his marry band of weirdos that includes Man-At-Arms, Teela, Stratos and… Mekaneck. His arch rival and the man who wants total power is none other then Skeletor, the evil lord of destruction.

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NYCC 2009: Mattycollector panel

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here’s what transpired at today’s Mattel pannel Source and pictures can be found here.

MOTC, Ghost Busters, DCUC
- all by 4 Horsemen Retail space limited in most stores, often devoted to movie lines, Matty lets Mattel get wanted product to the fans such as single figures instead of waves with definite release dates Everything on Matty is an exclusive. Any future releases will be different. New 2packs every quarter Retail wouldn’t take He-Man at this point so Mattel went ahead with online sales Merman comes with both heads Merman, Zodak, Hordak, Man-at-Arms with 2 heads, dagger, blaster and staff an maybe a bonus accessory Tri-lops aug 15th
Ghost Busters
- the 12 inch body is patented and the Movie Masters will expand beyond GB. Venkman and Zedmoore done but not approved so can’t show. There are plans for a giant Stay Puff Man monster. Matty is working on allowing a subscription program to allow combining orders to save on shipping. Figures could either be sent once a year en mass or automatically regularly each month.

- 12 inch GB will be $60, 6 inch $20.
- MOTC is selling very well so Mattel is looking at expanding the line.
- No plans for polling fans for the 2 packs yet, but it’s a possibility.
- He-Man mini-comics may be re-released as a graphic novel.
- Matty ships internationally and a foreign distribution center may be opened in a particular country if there is enough sales there. Germany, for instance, as exhibited a high demand.
- The 2 packs might include a C&C figure over the year of 4 releases.
- There will be a DCUC at SDCC exclusive that will be “amazing” and “cool”.
- There will be some Skeletors available at SDCC. If he is offered online again, there will be some change to the packaging, but the figure will be the same.
- A re-release would probably be at least 8 months after the first run.
- King Greyskull will probably be re-released though with a different, less impressive packaging.
- The He-Man SDCC exclusive may also have a chase variant.
- Fuzzy Mossman will be fuzzy. They’re talking about scenting him, but it’s unlikely.
- Princess Power and New Adventures are available to be included in this line.
-A director has been signed for the feature film. More animation, either straight to DVD releases or on TV is possible.
- Battlecat will happen – in 2010.
- More female characters planned for 2010.
- Panthor won’t be far behind Battlecat. He may be flocked in purple.
- There is still no access to original Filmation characters.
- He-Man works for Mattel cost wise because they can reuse the molds. That makes characters like Modulok hard to do.
- If the movie happens and there is retail support, then characters like Modulok can happen.
- Accessory packs with repainted accessories for the lines are possible. Tooling a new weapon costs as much as tooling part of a figure.
- If a toy breaks after it’s sold out, you may still be able to replace it as Mattel keeps 3% of all products for replacements.
- Man-at-Arms should be the first figure with packaging protection to keep the blister intact.
- Future DCUC 2-packs will have more esoteric , obscure in the future, things that might not have as much broad appeal at retail.
- All 4 Horsemen work together on all the lines. Movie figures take a lot longer than DC figures. The work on the lines happens fairly simultaneously. The sculptors move back and forth.
- Thundercats is not available for Mattel at this time. They are interested in doing the line though so they will pursue it.
- This version of Zodak will come with his gun. A future version may have his staff.
- The 30 inch Monitor for SDCC is hand made and hand painted. He is too expensive to tool.
- Playsets for Infinite Heroes are being considered.
- If GB sells well, they may do a 3 ¾ line.
- The 4 Horsemen try to balance articulation and the character’s look. It’s also done as needed, as with the Green Arrow’s baled wrist joint.
- MOTC will focus for the initial version of a character on his original style, with re-releases having more modern paint schemes.
-JLU may have a Lobo figure released on Mattycollector. Matty can have characters that might be inappropriate for retail. – Two MOTUC figures will be released in the next year. The second one will be released in January 2010.
- There will be an unpainted proto-type later in the convention.

NYCC 09: Mattel’s DCU panel notes

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here’s a transcript of today’s Mattel DC panel Source and Pictures from the panel can be found here

Batman Brave and the Bold:
-Wave 2 Brave & The Bold, Green Arrow, Despero, Plastic Man, Sportsmaster, Batman, Batman and The Adam.
-Look for Brave & The Bold Mini’s to hit in the summer with singles, multi-packs, boxssets.

Justice League Unlimited:
-Target Exclusive wave 3 JLU singles will be out in March. 3-Packs will be distributed at non-Target stores outside the US. Wave 3 single JLU Jon Stewart, Booster, Superwoman, Parasite, Dr. Fate
-Wave 4, Red Tornadoe, Volcana, Ultraman, batman Zatana
-Wave 5: Aquaman, Deadshot, Batman, Omac, Superman red and blue which will be 50/50
-Wave 3 3-packs: Batman Beyond, Cheeta, Prison Luthor and Shade (Shade won’t have a cane).
-Wave 4: Blackhawk w/Superman and Wonder Woman, also Amanda Waller, Gen Eiling and Batman.
-Wave 5: Mr. Miricle, Cyborg, Plasticman – amurai Black Vulcan and Apache Chief On Matty Collector they will have one new 4-pack each qrt. Brainac 5, Lighting Lad, Saturn Girl and Cosmic Boy of the LOSH.
-After that look for Shazam, Black Adam, Mary and Wizard.

-DC Superfriends will see a new Robin figure along with some repaints of previous characters.

DC Infinite Heroes:
-Six Packs will be available online and Wal-Mart. Look for an animal man pack that will have new sculpt and articulation. Look for images later today.
-Anti-Monitor Points: Hang on for SDCC, if you have 50 points you can get a 3 3/4″ scale anti-monitor or buy him for $10. Every 25 points will also give you a raffel ticket to win a 30″ Anti-Monitor with light up eyes. One will be given away everyday at SDCC.

DC Universe Classic:
-Another Wal-Mart wave is in the works for 2009. They say this one will see better distribution.
-Wave 8 Dr. Fate will have a chase version and para-deamons will be 50/50. Giganta will have a mini Atom figure.
-2-2packs in 09 from TRU and online. Batman/Clayface and Clayface will have the bendy arms. The second pack is Superman vs. Brainiac.
-Wave 9 on shelf in Summer of 2009 will have Black Adam, Deadshot, Green Arrow, Black Canary with real fishnet stockings, Wildcat with blue chase version. Also Mantis (Both version which will be 50/50. Gaurdian and the Collect-To-Connect figure Chemo.
Mattycollector packs will include starting in 4/15 Ultraman and Alex Luthor. They also teased a new 6″ Joker coming. Alot more JLU coming. and a multi-pack coming to SDCC.
On the anti-monitor points if you have say 100 points, you can use that to get 2 3 3/4″ scale anti-monitor figures and use those same points to enter the raffel for the 30″ 4 times. Mattel’s license doesn’t include Vertigo characters.
-Owl Man will be coming for JLU line.
-Brown Man-Bat of DCUC is coming in wave 10.
-the 3 3/4″ DCIH Anti-Montior will also be available at MattyCollector.
-Hour Man is coming soon for JLU.
-Loking for ways to bring Hal Jordan to the JLU line but won’t be the Holiday exclusve released several years ago. They can do characters from the shows or the comics in the DCUC line. Look for new images from the Mattel booth to coming later today.
No plans for a DCUC Jason Todd figure right now. They are working on flying bases that will work for all their toy lines. The idea of side-by-side bases was suggested and they said they would consider them. There is a taller Robin coming from DCIH line.
Possible troop builder wave could be in the works for an upcoming DCUC wave.
-JLU line could see Wonder Twins eventually.
-Could see some civilian characters in the DCUC. 09 should see 5 wave of DCUC -including the 2nd Wal-Mart exclusive line. Could see some Boxsets for DCUC. Green Arrow can proberly hold his arrows for the DCUC figure.

NYCC 09: Hasbro

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Here’s what fresh news Directly from the New York Comic-con

* Walmart exclusive 3 3/4″ Marvel Universe 2-packs called Gigantic Battles. This 2-pack will consist of a figure will be around 12-13″ and another regular 3 3/4″ in size and estimate cost of $25.00. These 2-packs will be hitting Walmart in Fall of 2009. * Exclusively to Toys R’ Us will be 3-packs. One set will be Spider-Man and his amazing friends with Spider-Man, Firestar and Iceman. * The second wave of Marvel Legends 2-packs with Iron Man that was shown at SDCC originaly are now Toys R’ Us and Diamond Previews exclusives. * Hasbro is going to be running a poll on their website starting very soon where people vote for their top 5 characters they want made for the 3 3/4″ Marvel Universe line. * 3 3/4″ Marvel Universe Nick Fury is a mail-away exclusive figure. * The X-Men Origins: Wolverine Premium  figures will be Wal-Mart exclusives.

Source Keep it here on Plastic Joint for more toy coverage for the 2009 NYCC