Nerf blasters, Foam Blasters, Gel Blasters to 2023 and on to 2024

It’s been a pretty big year for blasters, I think. In recent weeks, layoffs at Hasbro, MGA hiring blaster designers, the increasing number of products on Amazon, Etsy, and beyond, and increasingly compelling products from direct competitors shows a vastly shifting blasterscape than existed a few years ago. It’s a wild time to be into toy blasters right now, Nerf or otherwise.

The Favorites

This isn’t a comprehensive list of all the blasters that came out in 2023. I’m going over some of my favorite blasters from 2023 that I actually tried or got info from. If you don’t see it listed, I either didn’t purchase anything from that company, or they didn’t send me samples. I only have so much I can buy, unless I start crowdsourcing or get views for ad revenue.

Gel Blasting Forward

The past year saw a lot of expansion in different segments. Gel ball firing blasters definitely are a much bigger presence now than they were 10 years ago. Gel Blaster, Faction Battle System, Nerf Gelfire, GelZone, XShot, and so many other Amazon products comprise the number of selections you have. And a couple of products really stood out to me. The Faction Battle System Sentinel and the Nerf Gelfire Raid are two of my favorites this year. The Raid offers a proper scattershot of gel ammo, and the Sentinel is a REMOTE OPERATED turret styled blaster. The Setinel you can place on the ground, leave alone, and control with a remote to aim and fire, as long as you’re within range. I’ve seen so many gravity hopper gel blasters over the years, but I have not seen anything like the Raid and the Sentinel yet. I have seen milsim style gel blasters, ones with a magazine, even select fire and adjustable FPS. But the scattershot (shotgun) function and the remote operated features are what really caught my attention.

Nerf and Other Foam Darts for 2023

Even with gel blasters blastin’, foam blasters are still one of the more accessible mediums. You can play indoors with arguably the least risk to your home, and aside from finding darts in a couch you don’t have to worry about water residue, high FPS related injuries, and so on. That being the case, there were some amazing foam dart blasters this year.

Dart Zone Blasters and Dart Zone Pro

Dart Zone really pushed some amazing boundaries this year. They not only continued product for their high FPS pro line but also delivered the Thunderbolt. The blaster is an amazing piece of kit for under or about $20, fires straight, and has good power out of the box without being a pro labeled blasters. Accessible for all ages.

Dart Zone’s Pro main event was the Omnia Pro. It had a slight hiccup at initial release, but the blaster is only around $60+ and offers high powered firing, rechargeable battery, a choice from single, burst, or fully automatic firing, and is pretty compact. Between the price, the functionality, and the overall less cost of ammo from Dart Zone, the Omnia definitely stands tall in 2023.

Nerf

Nerf had a rough year. The reported sales were down, hence many layoffs in 2023, but the House of Potato still cooked. The Nerf Double Punch was a lot more fun to use than I expected, even with the gimmicky barrel action and dual mag setup. It had decent range stock, and the trigger action was pretty speedy. Yes, it was a free sample but of Nerf’s fulll length dart releases this year it was my favorite.

That’s right, full length. Nerf also finally entered the short dart segment with the Nerf Stryfe X. Upwards of 150+ FPS, USB-C charged battery, and a familiar but revamped Stryfe profile. It’s a good blaster, but the approximately $120 price tag is pretty hefty for what you get. All in all, it’s progress, and the blaster is pretty fun to use. One of the major highlights for Nerf from 2023 for sure.

Buzz Bee Toys

Buzz Bee Toys continues to chug along, and I am HERE FOR IT. Last year the Alpha Auto 72 was definitely one of my favorite overall blasters, and this year the EZ-Fire is another great product. Between including TWO magazines, a ton of (new style) darts, and being a solidly built blaster, the EZ-Fire is incredibly priced to be easy on your budget. Smooth lever action and slamfire, I had no complaints about the blaster at all and it is definitely one worth checking out if you haven’t tried it yet.

Blasting Ahead to 2024

Licensing is going to continue to be HUGE for blasters in 2024. Nerf is still churning out Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox blasters, their in-house brands like Star Wars, Transformers, Dungeons and Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Marvel, and GI Joe are always a possibilty as well. If Nerf LMTD continues to 2024, that opens the field even wider (seeing as how we’ve gotten an Aliens, Star Trek, and League of Legends blaster, just to name a few.)

Not to be outdone, Dart Zone and Buzz Bee Toys each released Stranger Things blasters this year. Before, Dart Zone released a Jurassic World pro blaster. Nerf may have plenty of licenses to choose from right now, but the other brands are definitely attracting attention now. Speaking of Nerf, they used to have the Halo license and before that, it was Mattel. The most recent licensee for Halo now will be Gel Blaster.

And while I mention them last, they are definitely not least, Zing, makers of StikBots and a variety of bows, are producing Cyberpunk 2077 gel blasters. And to say I’m EXCITED for those is a SEVERE UNDERSTATEMENT.

Most recently, Zing made Avatar themed bows, so licensed properties are not new to them. And from what I’ve seen, Cyberpunk is in great hands with them.

One other item that’s incredibly interesting but in a fledgling state, MGA is hiring blaster designers. Hasbro’s recent layoffs means a lot of talented people are on the hunt for a new job, and MGA, the makers of minibrands, LOL Surprise, Little Tikes, and many other brands, posted about hiring some of the recently available talent, including blaster designers. It’s still very early to see what this might mean, but ideally a new contender with MGA’s resources would be a very large ripple in the blaster space.

2024 Wish List for Toy Blasters

So with all this new stuff on the way, I can only speculate about the future. A few things I can see coming, but clearly only the toy industry people make more informed guesses. So in 2024 I am kinda hoping for….

Clearly, more licensed products are in the future, but this might also mean more repaints of older blasters just under new IPs. What licenses would I like to see? C’mon Hasbro, give us an actual GI Joe blaster that looks like something from the cartoon, or Optimus Prime’s Cannon.

Functionality wise, I’d like to see a return to multishot features, from any brand.. The Raid is a brilliant step in the right direction. More Mega XL, please! I believe in it!

Foam blasters continue to expand “pro” levels, maybe we finally get a shotgun multishot style in short dart pro level stylings?

A return to more animal shaped blasters. Seeing dinosaurs was great, I wouldn’t mind something like the Manta Ray (I say this practically every year).

Blasters start to adopt a retro style, like Flash Gordon

And that’s all for now, congrats on making it another year with me, let’s goooooooo!

Faction Battle System Gel Blaster – Sentinel | Remote Control Turret | Sentry

Faction Sentinel REMOTE CONTROLLED TURRET

Faction Spectre Gel Bead Blaster

Faction Havoc Gel Bead Blaster

Faction Sentinel Turret Gel Bead Blaster

Faction Skyfire Target Drone

The Faction Gel Bead Blaster line is new to projectiles, but the line comes from Skyrocket toys, and if you remember Recoil, you’ll remember a solidly, built laser tag blaster system that had some amazing app features. Skyrocket made that. 

Recoil wasn’t perfect and didn’t catch on, but Faction is pretty close! There are three blasters to choose from, and a targeting drone to keep things automated and interesting. There is a pistol, a long rifle, a versatile REMOTE CONTROLLED TURRET all to cater to your play style. Each feels very different, whether you’re using one with a gravity hopper, a magfed underside orientation, or setting up a trap for your opponents. Each blaster features a switch to move between single shot, three round bursts, or full auto, and buttons to function with the app.

Yes, the app is what takes gameplay to the next level. In the app you can custom the blaster light color, brightness, blaster name, and the type of game you’ll play. Playing solo, you can use the included beacon target to target shoot and compare scores with other friends on the app, andwhen playing in groups you can make teams while also choosing different game types and rules settings.

hile the app is great, you don’t need it to play. But you will need the app to “unlock” the blaster. When you buy a Faction blaster, you have to connect to the app (with an account) and connect the blaster to download the latest firmware. Past this though, the app is optional for play, and your blaster will still fire after being activated in the app.

There are some sales for Faction going on right now, and the prices for blasters are between $40 & $70. But considering you get the blaster, glasses, ammo, glow in the dark ammo, an integrated glow ammo function, targeting beacon, and charging cords, the cost is on par what I’d expect from a premium product with a lot to offer. You’re paying up front for a gel ball experience unlike a few others out there.

Definitely give these a look while the Faction blasters  are on sale, there are content plans and game ideas com for the future, and I’d like to see what else is planned!

Beto Carrero World to Unveil the first-ever NERF themed land, NERF Mania, on Children’s Day!

NERF Mania will feature new, exhilarating attractions and is considered the biggest investment in the history of Beto Carrero World.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 – Calling all NERF fans! Beto Carrero World is about to make every adventurer’s dream come true with the opening of the first ever NERF-themed land: NERF Mania! The grand opening is set for October 12th, Children’s Day, and as a gift, kids will be able to dive into and revel in the new attractions, which are just the first phase of the spectacular NERF Mania.

Get ready to get wet and spin with the Super Soaker Splash!

For those who thrive on challenges and enjoy a splash of fun, the Super Soaker Splash is the perfect choice! Get ready to get wet, and showcase your sharp aim as you spin non-stop within this thrilling aquatic attraction. If you think it’s a breeze, think again, as the fun spins wildly!

Spin, scream, and thrill with the Spin Blast Adventure!

There’s no stomach-churning thrill quite like the Spin Blast! Picture a giant disc for 40 people spinning frantically atop a wave-shaped track. Are you ready to embark on an adventure full of exhilarating moves and infectious laughter? If so, you’re next in line for this exclusive attraction in Brazil, designed to accommodate over 600 people per hour!

‘Curious Fact: The Spin Blast and the Super Soaker Splash are imported attractions from Italy and took about 30 days by ship to arrive in Brazil.

Digital Aim at the NERF Arcade!

For the digitally-savvy enthusiasts who love a challenge, the NERF Arcade is your spot. Test your concentration and aim with digital blasters while you have fun with your friends to see who can rack up the most points. It’s the classic NERF experience in an amazing new dimension!

Refuel at the themed Restaurant and bring the fun to your home with the NERF Shop!

Even adventurers need to refuel! The themed Restaurant is the perfect place to savor mouthwatering snacks that will make your taste buds tingle. Don’t forget to drop by the NERF Shop, where fans will find exclusive NERF Mania products to take home as incredible mementos from this thrilling journey!

An Incredible Collaboration for an Unprecedented Experience

1NERF Mania is a collaboration between Beto Carrero World and Hasbro Inc., a leading toy and game company. Here’s a c #ool tidbit: the expansive themed area of over 14,000 square meters was designed by a design studio based in Singapore and New York, known for their expertise in creating amazing parks. So you know what that means – guaranteed fun with an international flair!

A Historic Investment in Entertainment

“This marks the largest investment in Beto Carrero World’s history. It took us 31 years to reach this level of international entertainment standard. It’s a source of immense pride, as my father always drew inspiration from the magic of overseas parks. And I can confidently say, there’s much more to come,” commented Alexandre Von Janke Murad, President of the Administrative Board of Beto Carrero World.

“We cannot wait for consumers of all ages to experience the first-ever NERF themed land at Beto Carrero World, and this opening is just the start of whats to come,” said Matt Proulx, Vice President of Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music at Hasbro. “This fully immersive experience really leans into the social, active play lifestyle that NERF has been known for over its nearly 55-year history, all while encouraging friendly competition between family and friends.”

The fun has only just begun

Hold onto your Blaster, because the fun doesn’t stop here! More exciting updates are in the works for a second phase of NERF Mania.

ABOUT BETO CARRERO WORLD:

Beto Carrero World is the largest theme park in Latin America. Inaugurated in 1991, the enterprise that placed the city of Penha on the tourist map of Santa Catarina, Brazil and the world, arose from the childhood dream of João Batista Sérgio Murad, the Beto Carrero, which brought Brazilians a fantasy world. For seven years, Beto Carrero World has been recognized as the largest theme park in South America by Travelers’ Choice™, and is also among the best in the world rankings. There are more than 100 attractions that delight, amuse and offer unique and unforgettable moments in the family.

Blast OFF to 2023!

… by looking at 2022.

It’s here, the end of the year. 2022 brought A LOT of different things to blasters and related toys, and the field is bigger than ever. I’m going to focus on the “main” blaster brands you can find in US big box retailers, but Amazon sellers and direct to consumer vendors, I see you too. 

2022 Blaster Brand Power Rankings

Top of the Power Rankings this Year is Nerf.

I’ll say it. Nerf and Hasbro can be criticized for their prices, their designs, the barrage of new ammo types introduced, etc., but the main event in blasters I still have to say is in Potato Head’s house. Nerf had A LOT of lines come out this year. Rival isn’t dead. Ultra had new models. I couldn’t even keep up with all the Nerf Elite 2.0 releases, Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite, Dino Squad, and everything in between. Hyper got new releases, and Gelfire is new to the Nerf line but another segment for them to put a foothold in. (There’s even more on the hroizon, and the future predictions will be on another post,)

That’s a lot of blasters. Not even mentioning Nerf LMTD. And there’s the rub. Nerf LMTD opens the doors so much wider than I think anyone but the people at Nerf understand (and their lawyers). If you had told me 5 years ago I would own a Nerf Aliens Pulse Rifle, I’d have called you a liar. And… I now own a foam dart firing blaster from Aliens. With more on the way, the Halo Needler certainly is grabbing attention even now. Technically, Nerf Ball was announced as well, it’s just more Nerf to go around.

So Nerf is not only claiming a lot of real estate on toy shelves, but on literal land too. They have campaigns and marketing all over the place with deep pockets to go along with it. From potentially having limitless IPs to make legendary blasters for, to having a wide variety of blasters and lines to choose from, and experiential attractions, Nerf has the spread and the reach to easily claim being the strongest brand even now.

Fave Nerf blaster from 2022 – 

TIE: Aliens Pulse Blaster & Nerf Elite Moto Blitz 

One of the Favorites from Nerf in 2022!

Tied for 2nd – 

Dart  Zone & Buzz Bee Toys

Dart Zone – Fortifying their Position

Dart Zone had HUGE year. They’ve taken the niche of “pro” level blasters and games and really carved a piece of it for themselves. They offer a variety of darts but the darts are usable in other blasters for the most part. The Tomcat can’t use full length darts, but the 1.2 and Nexus Pro are compatible to use both half and full length ammo. The only drawback was I couldn’t use a majority of the pro blasters at some nerf wars I attended. The blasters shoot pretty strongly and a majority of the attendees were kids of other players.

However, I’d be remiss not mentioning the whole tournament Dart Zone held as well. Across multiple states, even attracting players from Singapore, it definitely made noise. The other grumblings I heard are a story time for another day, but as I wasn’t an attendee everything I heard is hearsay. All the same, well done on them for even doing it. 

Getting the license to use Jurassic World on blasters was fantastic for Dart Zone too. I know I always wanted a dino hunting blaster from watching Jurassic Park, and their Jurassic Pro fulfilled an age old want.The other non pro blasters like the Pyroraptor and Blue Blaster were fun too, but the real theme came out with the Pro. I also really liked the Vulcanator, the wacky design reminded me why silly blasters are great to own, and not to take this hobby too seriously. 

Fave Release: Dart Zone Vulcanator

BuzzBee Toys – Not Just Bolt Action

Buzz Bee Toys is never to be counted out. Typically they have a few solid performers every year, but they don’t have the production output that Nerf has. Abraham’s M4 blaster, the Thermal Hunter, and other past releases from other years were great, 

This year was no exception. the Alpha Auto 72 is one of my favorite blasters this year, no doubt about it. It has high capacity, drum fed, good range, and I definitely managed to get tags with it. And it was still a regular strength blaster, so I could use it anywhere I played. Buzz Bee also released fun looking blasters like the Pixelator and Tornado, but the Alpha Auto hits so many positive notes for me. Cost, Capacity, Functionality, and aesthetics are all there. Well done this year, Buzz Bee.

Fave Released Blaster: Alpha Auto 72

ZING

I love the Zing brand. Marshmallow Blasters is under their label now, they make a consistently good product, them being at this spot on the list isn’t a knock on them. Someone had to go here, and the other lines had so much going on in comparison.

The new Dominator bow and battle packs are great for outdoor play, and their continued efforts to capitalize on archery tag continued this year, and I’m here for it. But, that’s about all I have to say blaster/launcher wise this year. Zing makes so much more than bows, but it’s not a lot I can factor into this list. That being said, I look forward to what they have coming up and will definitely get my bows and arrows out once the weather warms up for me. 

Fave Release: Dominator Bow

XShot

I don’t have a lot to say about XShot this year. I haven’t heard from their PR team since the Faze Clan blasters dropped, and all I know is they released a new Skins line since. But like every year, XShot has multiple color refreshes (in the Skins line this time, the Faze Clan blasters were the third recolor of the Orbit and Meteor I’ve seen). One year the new model was the Crusher, this year I think there are two new models? Maybe one? Everything else I already have in last year’s color. 

Sure, everyone does it but they also have multiple new products. I haven’t seen that from XShot yet. The entire line is budget friendly and has impressive power from what I know in past experience, but this year I just don’t have much more to report on them and I don’t have the budget to buy more of the Same Thing.

Honorable Mentions

And there really is SO MUCH MORE available on the internet! Amazon, Direct to Consumer, and Amazon make all these other different toys available. Foam blasters that no one else is making, gel blasting toys that are super realistic, and so on. Buyer beware on safety, because there’s no guarantee these toys adhere to the same strict US toy safety guidelines but there is definitely some impressive product out there.

One of my favorite gel blasters. High powered, magfed, and decently priced!

To 2023! 

Nerf Review] – Nerf Hyper Evolve 100 Blaster (New 2022)

TRANSCRIPTION: (apologies in advance, I used free Notta software for this)

Welcome to a foam from above. We are looking at the Nerf Hyper evolve 100. I believe it’s around 60 or $70. But let’s go over some of the basics. Your jam door there. And here, safety. Docking bay doors.  Going to call it a docking bay because it looks like a spaceship when it does that. When I initially saw this announced, I thought it was electric. It was basically a reshell of the Mach 100. That is not the case. 

The blaster itself comes with only 70 rounds. This is kind of what I got in here. It also comes with eye protection. And that’s about it. Still feels comfortable. And then there is no slam fire.  It’s a new Ammo type. A couple of new models. This is the latest one. The loading switch for the bay doors. It’s accessible by both left and right hands. The safety is on the left and the right side. Rail system there.  Rail system there. You can mount the additional ammo containers on it along with I believe the rival accessory should work on this too. This looks like the same thing. I’d say it’s not as heavy as the Hyper Mach 100.  And I do prefer a pump action forward mech.

The new door, I love it. And if you want to get the new stuff. Your Nerf Hyper Evolve 100 is out. This really depends on the type of ammo that you like.  However, I do have this caveat. Make sure to use the blaster indoors. Your ammo retrieval rate for this is going to be you do run the risk of it being pretty low just because how small these are compared to rival rounds, but yeah, still solidly built blaster, solid ammo.  Nice looks.

Love the presentation of it. Thanks again to Hasbro for sending out a free sample. I appreciate it. Appreciate you for tuning in. If you like what you see, make sure to hit like and subscribe.  Blast that Like & Subscribe button for me!  

Manchester-based NERF Action Xperience (NAX) kick-starts UK rollout

Been sitting on this news for some time, but there’s still plenty to talk about! Nerf has a number of initiatives out there, from the mobile tour in North America, a Nerf theme park in Brazil, and a Nerf Action Xperience in Singapore, Nerf is putting another theme arena in Manchester!

This isn’t the first time that Nerf has had a UK based experience, there was/is a setup at Quest arena from years ago, but this is new and looks to be a more standardized setup as this would mark the second location called a “Nerf Action Xperience”. The full press release/article follows:


“Having successfully entered a licensing agreement with global branded entertainment company HASBRO, Rocafella Leisure have recently secured the investment to commence work on the first NERF Action Xperience family entertainment centre (FEC) in the UK.

Each NAX centre provides guests with a multitude of NERF fuelled indoor activities to explore, exhilarate and excite. It consists of three different zones to activate those ultimate NERF adventures in a purpose-built and immersive environment.

The competition zone allows groups to battle it out with different NERF blasters in three immersive themed arenas.

The sports zone features a huge atrium of NERF-related sports challenges including basketball and football volley. Finally, there is a dedicated training zone to hone players targeting skills, truly providing something for everyone.

The inaugural FEC will open in the recently rebranded Trafford Palazzo (Manchester) in Summer 2023, marking the start of a UK-wide rollout which will see two further locations added within the coming years.”

“The NERF Action Xperience in Manchester embodies Hasbro’s Brand Blueprint 2.0, our strategic approach to bringing Hasbro’s iconic brands to life, for fans of all ages,” said Matt Proulx, VP Location Based Entertainment at Hasbro, Inc. “As we expand the NERF franchise into new categories, we will continue to introduce innovative experiences for consumers – and we’re excited to partner with Rocafella Leisure to bring the NAX experience to fans throughout the UK.” 

Working alongside Peel L&P, who now own and successfully manage Trafford Palazzo, Rocafella Leisure shared the same vision to create a unique and rich blend of IP-led entertainment within the venue, which adjoins one of Europe’s largest retail and leisure destinations, the Trafford Centre.

The new Nerf FEC being introduced by Rocafella Leisure will join Trafford Palazzo’s growing tenant mix as it continues to elevate its offering whilst becoming a rivalled destination for retail, leisure and entertainment for families of all ages. The tenant mix currently includes Primark,

Merlin operated LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE, Silentnight, Homesense, Natuzzi, newly opened Italian restaurant, Matterello and the newly announced forthcoming addition, King Pins which is due to open in the Spring of 2023.

Work has already begun on altering the current layout and infrastructure of the ground-floor unit, located just inside the main entrance of Trafford Palazzo, installing a mezzanine floor and preparing the mechanical and electrical infrastructure in readiness for the main contractor to start the first phase of building works.

Mark Whittaker, Executive Director Property Investment & Management for Peel L&P said:

“We are really excited to welcome Nerf Action Experience to Trafford Palazzo. The brand aligns perfectly with all existing operators and will I’m sure be extremely popular with visitors, old and new.

“Over the past year, we have focused on developing an activations and events strategy within our mall space which has attracted significant interest and demonstrates the power of creating experiences for customers within a retail space. We are excited to develop our strategy and offering further to bring some spectacular collaborations to Trafford Palazzo.”

Rocafella Leisure have agreed an exclusive partnership with Archie’s, the Manchester based American-inspired diner to be the operator of the food and beverage (F&B) offer within the FEC.

The team–up with Archie’s seemed a logical fit, helping deliver a first-class F&B offering that is grounded in quality and service, and where both brands can use similar values and positioning to attract like-minded customers.

This relationship presents Rocafella Leisure with a trusted ready-made F&B proprietor with appropriate menus, that can organise and deliver children’s parties and have the added advantage of attracting passing footfall to boost their sales.  

Amer Rafiq, co-founder of Archie’s said: “We are hugely excited to be partnering with NAX on such a high-profile attraction coming to Manchester.

“The decision to work together was an easy one, as our overall brand proposition and american-inspired menu has great appeal with the intended audience coming to NAX.

“Working with NAX has enabled us to take a huge step in our growth plans, providing a route into new markets where entertainment and dining are possible under one roof. A sector that both organisations are well-equipped and eager to capitalise on through this successful partnership. 

“We look forward to opening our doors next summer as we welcome battle-ready NERFers to experience the high-quality food and drink from our menu as they refuel after a fun and energetic time at NAX.”

As the build takes shape, investments into local services to launch the new centre, provide a positive contribution to local economic growth. Once up and running, 45 new jobs will be created, offering opportunities to kick-start a career within the leisure and hospitality sector.

A curriculum is being developed to help schools and colleges utilise the facilities for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning as key STEM topics can be demonstrated through the gameplay and operations within the venue.

Chris Hayes, Chief Executive of Rocafella Leisure Group said: “This is a momentous moment for Rocafella Leisure as we establish, what we believe, a world-renowned destination that personifies the brand values of NERF within an entertainment setting.

“HASBRO have been extremely supportive of the vision we have proposed and like us are extremely excited to bring this venue to life; continuing to enable and inspire the use of their IP in pioneering ways within the LBE (location based entertainment) sector.

“Not only are we creating a place for families and adults to experience NERF beyond their own homes, we will transport them to an immersive space where they can play with the freedom to challenge, compete, and take home bragging rights – if they wish!

“The industry needs new entrants, those that look to disrupt and strengthen the family entertainment offer, and through NAX we firmly believe we will do that. Creating an experience that is backed by long-standing and well regarded IP and brings together families under one roof, supported by forward-thinking landlords who share the same outlooks on the future of the sector.

“Through NAX we also blend fun-fuelled active play with learning, providing an interactive and innovative STEM focused programme that helps young people understand certain areas we offer. They may look at the trajectory of darts from a blaster; the mechanics of how the games work or the digital and technical complexities that run our venue.

“I can’t wait to finally get this open and provide a beacon destination that cements the North West as a leading light in family entertainment. I hope to see many of you there!”

Fit-out work is due to be completed in Summer 2023, with an official opening to follow soon after. To keep up to date with potential opening dates keep an eye on the NAX website www.nerfax.co.uk

Notes:

●      Rocafella Leisure Group are the official licence holders for the delivery of the NERF Action Xperience in location-based entertainment within the UK

●      NERF is a trademark of Hasbro and is used with permission. © 2022 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro

NERF X LEAGUE OF LEGENDS COLLAB – JINX

League of Legends is one of the most-played competitive games in the world, played by more than 20 million people across 145 countries every day. In League of Legends, Jinx is an impulsive character, bringing her own chaotic brand of pandaemonium wherever she goes. With her iconic rocket launcher Fishbones, she unleashes the loudest blasts and brightest explosions, leaving a trail of mayhem and panic in her wake.

The NERF LMTD Jinx Fishbones features an 18-dart capacity drum with 6 clusters of 3 darts, so you can blast enemies with a 3-dart burst each time you pull the trigger!


The NERF LMTD X LEAGUE OF LEGENDS JINX FISHBONES is available for pre-order exclusively on Amazon from November 14, 2022 – January 3, 2023. See below for full details. You can download high-res images HERE.

(Text)

As you go off shopping for that blaster fiend you know, be ready for one of the largest selections of ammo out in stores, EVER!

In stores you’ll have your choice of Nerf, Dart Zone, Adventure Force, Buzz Bee, and XShot, and darts, round ball ammo (aka high impact rounds/Rival rounds), gel ammo, Ultra darts, pro darts, short darts, Mega darts, Mega XL darts, demolisher rockets, streamline darts, XL distance darts, and more. I aim to help you keep your stories straight and your ammo choices consistent. When buying a blaster, do make sure to get extra rounds to go past the initial blasting!

I’m sticking with what you’ll see in most major retailers, as Amazon ammo can be literally hit or miss on quality. When buying store brand, you can be sure that certain safety tests are performed and that the ammo you’re buying is safe in construction and materials.

Column A is all the Elite/streamline/ long style darts. You see these the most probably, and all the darts in this box should work with other brands that use similar darts. Your performance using mags may differ based on combination of brand dart/blaster, but they’ll work.

B contains different Rival/high impact round (HIR) ammo you may see in store or on store websites. Non Nerf brands from Adventure Force and XShot will work with Nerf blasters, and vice versa. I’ve heard plenty of not good things about round ammo on Amazon, so while it’s cheap I don’t recommend buying anything unless it’s one of the brands in this box.

C… this box has all the ammo types that don’t work with any blasters except the ones they’re designed for in their specific brand. Yep, Nerf has a diverse collection. Ultra, Mega XL, Mega, all have their own specific ammo type and won’t work with anything else recently released.

NERF LMTD X STAR TREK STARFLEET TYPE 3 PHASER BLASTER



(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $119.99/Available for pre-order starting September 7, 2022)

Celebrate the 35TH anniversary of Star Trek: The Next Generation with the NERF LMTD Star Trek Starfleet Type 3 Phaser and Starfleet Type 2 Phaser! They capture the look of the phasers used by Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise. The Type 3 motorized dart blaster has light-up effects that simulate the look of being assimilated by the Borg in homage to the film, Star Trek: First Contact, light-up phaser effects, phaser sounds, authentic First Contact movie sounds, an internal 5-dart clip, and fires 1 dart at a time. The Starfleet Type 2 Phaser fires 1 dart and has a pull-back priming handle.


With their premium design details, the blasters honor the iconic Star Trek, the universe that has sparked imaginations and engaged fans for more than 50 years. The blasters come in premium packaging that’s perfect for display. Eyewear recommended (not included). Includes 7 foam Nerf Elite darts. Type 3 phaser requires 4x 1.5v AA alkaline batteries (not included). The new NERF LMTD Star Trek Starfleet Type 3 Phaser is available now for pre-order on Hasbro Pulse and Amazon.