Nerf was awesome enough to send along some new video for a bit of an early release. While it covers some of the older products (Fusefire, Super Soakers, etc.) the big draw here is the Nerf N-Strike Mega Thunderbow and Nerf N-Strike EliteDemolisheralong with a peek at Dude Perfect, Nerf’s resident trick shot experts.
A good portion of the gamut of Nerf Life is evident here, from Zombie Strike to Super Soaker, though Nerf Dog and Nerf Rebelle may be getting videos of their own.
2014 is going to finish strong from the looks of it! What have you picked up from the new lineup? What do you plan to get?
(I’m… uh… waiting for them to show up on store shelves.)
Nerf Blaster Tops 100…. Dollars! Say Hello the Elite Rhino-Fire
By Vas Stampede
Nerf N-Strike Elite Rhino Fire. 90′ range. MSRP: $100.00 Available Fall 2014.
UPDATE: Here’s the full press release straight from Nerf:
NERF N-STRIKE ELITE RHINO-FIRE Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $99.99/Available: Fall 14) Dominate the competition with the biggest, baddest NERF blaster yet! The N-STRIKE ELITE RHINO-FIRE blaster is the first fully automatic NERF blaster featuring rapid-fire, double barrel blasting, an amazing 50 dart capacity and two N-STRIKE ELITE dart drums, turning ordinary battles into extraordinary ones. The epic RHINO-FIRE blaster sends darts soaring impressive ELITE distances of up to 90 feet, and features both a front handle for mobility and tripod to ensure awesome accuracy. Includes 50 N-STRIKE ELITE darts. Six “D” batteries required, not included. Available exclusively at Walmart.
Nerf Rhino images came off Amazon Spain, but nothing really solid to go on yet except the name and box art (which might change as well.)
Have fun!
Whew! Ok, so if I may chime in… holy carp.
Back at the Nerf All Access event (videos are posted at click click bamf and AFON so far) we were informed there was one more big blaster coming. I’m guessing this is it. If anyone experienced a letdown with the Cam CS-12 being revealed, hopefully this is more your speed?
The story so far:
Available Fall 2014 (most likely around the holidays)
Wal-Mart Exclusive
MSRP: $99.99
Range: 90′
Includes 50 Darts, a tripod (I’m assuming 2 x 25 round drums)
Requires 6 D batteries (!)
While I’d prefer to wait for the actual product, here’s some of the chatter:
Flywheels
Pistoning barrels (like the Pulsator)
Tac-Rails (of course)
I’m sure it’s only one trigger, but the early speculation also says maybeselective firing capabilities.
I already thought $80 was a bit high for the Cam, but this one tops out at $99.99, definitely for the holiday shopping frenzy. With dual barrels and who knows what else by release, this is a huge gambit to see just how much people are willing to pay, especially around holiday splurging. For the cost and the range, and the ultimately big bad feeling to come with a blaster like this, I wonder how fast it will be snatched up. If the Centurion sales (lots of people DID buy them, regardless of the performance) this just might be a big beast during the holiday season. Personally, I’m very interested to see the final product, as impressed as I am with this hype and promise at the moment. Only one way to be sure!
I saw this at New York Toy Fair, but it looks like the Nerf Rebelle SpyLight (not supposed to be out until Fall) hit the wild… somewhere. Eyes open, chummers. Fall will be here before we know it.
Dartblaster.de saw this at the Nuremberg Toy Fair, here’s the press release from Nerf!
NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE DOUBLESTRIKE Blaster
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 14)
When zombies are on the loose, double dart firing power is a necessity. Load two ZOMBIE STRIKE darts into the DOUBLESTRIKE blaster, pull back on the hammer mechanism, and fire to unleash both darts in a row! Blaster includes two ZOMBIE STRIKE darts. Available at most retailers nationwide and Hasbrotoyshop.com.
UK Nerf, was able to try them out. Make sure to read the entire report, but here are some choice bits:
About the Slingfire: “About the same size as the Sledgefire and roughly the same weight. This was designed to be used one handed so the balance is spot on. You can flick it to prime it and it lands neatly in your hand so rapid fire with this technique would be possible with a little practice, keeping the other hand free for a secondary or to reload.”
The Demolisher:
” The Grenade launcher is not detachable, nor can it be without a lot of work (as far as I could see). It is fairly heavily integrated into the shell and I think if it were removable, simply using it would wrench it off the rail anyway.” Word has it the Demolisher may be full auto due to the popularity of the Rapidstrike, so that remains to be seen.
Go read the rest if you want to know more! It sounds promising though, and I am looking forward to getting a turn at these come New York Toy Fair. UK Nerf mentions a total of 10 releases, so it’s bound to be a busy year. No word on N-Force or Dart Tag though, we’ll have to wait and see.
I’d really love to say more and speculate, but honestly there’s not much to say without the blasters. It’s a little weird to see the Thunderbow reliant on the bow arm as part of the priming mech, unlike the Big Bad Bow or BnA, where the bow arms were extraneous. The Demolisher is going to be fun I think, and I really want to know if the diameter of the missile is the same as the Mega darts. I strongly think the Rebelle Agent Bow is going to be the dark horse of the new releases, with the new arrows (tipped something like ball, per UK Nerf). Anyway, have fun with the info! It looks like Hasbro didn’t allow video or photos at all in their showroom hence the lack of images and photos from anybody. UK Nerf does have some new angles though. Thanks to them for taking time out of their lives to make the trip!
Started getting some messages, and heard about this –
“NERF N-STRIKE MEGA THUNDERBOW
NERF N-STRIKE MEGA THUNDERBOW Toy
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 14)
Awesome NERF MEGA performance transitions from blaster to bow with the addition of the N-STRIKE MEGA THUNDERBOW toy. The bow’s dynamic arms and traditional pull back system can fire five NERF MEGA whistler darts in a row up to an amazing 100 feet. Includes 10 MEGA Whistler darts and holds up to five NERF MEGA darts at a time. Available at most major retailers nationwide and HasbroToyshop.com So there you have it, a 2nd surprise info drop from Nerf (leading up to the UK Toy Fair, and eventually New York.) I’ll admit, I’m going to hold back judgment though given this Air Zone Extreme Power Bow blaster from some time ago –
I’m sure Nerf’s taken the design and jazzed it up (especially shooting Elite Mega darts and all) but until the blaster’s in my hands there’s just not much I can comment on. I’m intrigued to check it out though, I don’t think I see a trigger or a tactical rail on the blaster… so… “dynamic arms… traditional pullback…” interesting.
Ah well, enough speculatin’. We’ll just have to see!
New Nerf blaster for 2014 is announced! Just before the UK Toy Fair begins, here we go!
UPDATE: Here’s a video of the blaster I took from New York Toy Fair:
NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SLINGFIRE Blaster
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Fall 14)
Zombie hordes are no match for the ZOMBIE STRIKE SLINGFIRE blaster! The blaster’s lever-action allows for quicker reloads on the run and DIY-style designs lend an authentic feel to any NERF zombie attack. Blaster comes complete with one six dart clip and six ZOMBIE STRIKE darts which can be fired up to 75 feet. Features the NERF Tactical Rail System customizable with NERF N-STRIKE scopes and accessories, each sold separately. Available at most major retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
Interesting look, lever action, and supposedly going to get the 75′ Elite ranges. I wonder how a drum mag is going to look in there. 1 tactical rail, 2 sling points (the barrel and the buttstock), and…. there you go! The UK Toy Fair is going to see this first, and I do believe I’m going to get a crack at this next month at the New York Toy Fair. How do you feel about that $30 price tag though?
Don’t forget to check out some of the other U.S. Nerf bloggers that receive info like this for their unique spin (their might be others by this point, I am not sure) – Basic Nerf, Adult Fans of Nerf, Click Click BAMF, Shining Foam
Also,New York Toy Fair 2014is next month! I’m all booked and set to go, now it’s just the waiting game until I get there. Coverage begins February 16, and I’ll be in the Hasbro/Nerf Showroom at 9 AM. Just a quick reminder – this trip is out of pocket for me, no company flies me out (unlike the Nerf summer gathering/release parties) nor do they sponsor me so I’ll visit/give their products additional coverage. But as long as I have a press pass, I’ll make sure to head out so I can get what info I can to share. It is one of the first looks I get up close and personal with the blasters for 2014, so I have some direct experience with what you might expect. There are also prototypes and toys which may not make it to market, but that’s the risk in the toy industry!
Incoming word from an email from Hasbro PR: this Monday, supposedly, Nerf is going to announce a new blaster for Fall 2014. Not sure what it will be, but I will be watching my inbox, and post what I find here!
Requires 4 “C” batteries (Not included, thank you to Lord Damian for catching the original error.)
Flywheels
Includes:
1 x Nerf N-Strike Elite Rapidstrike CS-18
1 x Clear 18 round magazine
18 Nerf N-Strike Elite Streamline darts
Range
50′-75′, depending on dart quality, battery power, angle, etc.
Special features
Flip-up sight, extendable stock, various tactical rails and sling points (though I really think there’s only one)
ANALYSIS:
Let’s take a quick look at where we’ve been. Nerf Stampede video from the VERY FIRST release party, so many years ago.
Yikes. Nice to see the quality has (kind of?) improved since then.
The Nerf N-Strike Elite Rapidstrike CS-18 (as seen in the video at the beginning) is a vast improvement over the Nerf N-Strike Stampede from about 3 years ago. The Stampede had a direct plunger, but it was big, bulky, hit only 30-40′ maybe, and it was a bit back heavy if you were a younger kid (6 D batteries!) and a bit slow on the rate of fire. Personally, I found that I’d lead a target using half a magazine (9 shots, and the blaster was stock) before getting a hit.
The Rapidstrike doesn’t have that problem. It hits Elite ranges, is smaller, lighter, and fires faster. Even though the Rapidstrike uses flywheels, I can pinpoint a bit better with this and waste less ammo. Streamlines being streamlines, I don’t expect super accuracy out of them (even Elite ones) so that’s not a concern for me. But the groupings seem pretty decent all the same, even with full auto. I found the trigger pull responsive, and no lag like there was waiting for the Stampede to prime and fire. It’s a fraction maybe faster, but Nerf tag is a game of inches and seconds in Rate of Fire. Every little bit helps. Swapping out mags was smooth, and I recommend 18 round straight mags.
That being said about magazines, here’s the thing – I ran into some issues with reliability. It got some actual gameplay (hi Des Plaines! More on that in another blog post) I used primarily 18 round straight magazines (like the clear one it came with and 3 others. 2 worked (includes the clear) and the others did not. Further testing is required to see how far the rabbit hole goes about this, so expect a response video to my initial firing test. I’ll also update this blog post. Need to test drums, and different generations of the 6 round mags too.
Also, adjusting my grip, I hit the mag release once unintentionally. When things are moving fast, that might be an issue for some people and they will lose the magazine. Typically the magwell has been strong enough to not drop the mag on me, but it did once so far. Depending on your mag, it might drop. Depending on your mag, it might jam. In this instance, the location of the release is cool, but the classic orientation on the sides might have made more sense.
Mag release is right behind the magwell. You might hit it trying to avoid revving the accelerator trigger.
Does that justify a $39.99 purchase? Considering the fun I’ve had using this (when it works) and that stores have a return policy, maybe. It really is a ton of fun as a blaster and having something full auto is a welcome function I’ve missed with the Elite line so far. Slam Fire just isn’t quite the same. Hopefully my videos are a bit helpful in making a decision, but ultimately it rests on you as a player to see if this is your style.
Aesthetically, this blaster made me think of the carbine from “Aliens” and the adjustable stock made it either comfortable or usable for closer quarters. Also… the accelerator trigger means dual wieldings 🙂 And that makes all sorts of things awesome:) Happy hunting!
Questions? Comments? Did I miss something? Need more info? Shoot me a message!
Just a quick look back at some of the things left to expect for the Fall in the U.S. (at least as much as my press kit from February had) – I copy/pasted many of the descriptions below from my kit descriptions.
NERF N-STRIKE ELITE STOCKADE Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $21.99/Available: Fall 2013)
With motorized blasting capability, the STOCKADE blaster utilizes features such as a rotating 10-dart barrel and a removable stock with storage for 10 extra darts. The N-STRIKE ELITE STOCKADE blaster comes complete with 10 N-STRIKE ELITE darts as well was a removable stock accessory with storage for ten additional darts (sold separately). Blaster requires three “AA” batteries, not included. Available exclusively at Wal-Mart nationwide.
NERF N-STRIKE BLAZIN’ BOW Toy (HASBRO/Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2013)
Who’s ready for more NERF action? Send NERF foam arrows soaring across the sky with the NERF N-STRIKE BLAZIN’ BOW toy. The BLAZIN’ BOW toy features an authentic pull-back bow design that you simply pull back, aim, and release to fire the NERF foam arrows. The BLAZIN’ BOW toy can hit targets from up to an impressive 40 feet away, and comes complete with integrated storage for two additional foam NERF a
rrows. Includes three NERF foam arrows. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
New deco for the Nerf Vortex line (should be out this Fall)
NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $19.99/Available: Fall 13)
The NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit is a girl’s best friend and includes the accessories she needs to take on any NERF REBELLE mission in style. The star of the NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit is the bold five dart revolving blaster, which features a cool purple deco and bright magenta accents. Pull back on the lever to ready the blaster and press the trigger to send darts soaring through the air up to 75 feet. Add style savvy during non-stop, action-packed adventures with the included pair of NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR eyewear. Taking a break from the excitement? Players can stow their blaster and extra darts in the included hip holster, and take the NERF REBELLE action with them wherever they go. Includes blaster, five collectible darts, and belt clip holster. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR Eyewear
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $6.99/Available: Fall 13)
Players can accessorize their NERF REBELLE adventures with NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR eyewear, a pair of tough and trendy specs that bring both fashion and function to any adventure. A rubberized coating keeps NERF REBELLE girls comfortable, and hinged arms make the VISION GEAR eyewear easily packable for on-the-go action. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER Bow
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $19.99/Available: Fall 13)
The ultimate adventure accessory, the NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER bow features “true” bow action and powerful dart performance! Inspired by current pop culture trends, the HEARTBREAKER bow offers girls the poise and precision to take on any mission. To activate the bow, simply load a dart in the front and take aim. Then, pull back on the bow string handle and release to send darts soaring across the sky up to 75 feet, allowing for shot that shows off your skill with aim and attitude. Ready for action, the bow features an accessory rail which provides for five-dart storage for easy access to ammo and allows girls to customize their blaster with fun add-ons, like the NERF REBELLE App Cradle (sold separately). The NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER bow comes with five collectible darts, Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE SNEAK ATTACKERS Two Pack
(HASBRO/Ages 8 up/Approx. Retail Price $12.99/Available: Fall 13)
Equip your best friend with a blaster and team up to take on any secret mission together with this NERF REBELLE Two Pack! This pair of mini blasters packs high-performance power beneath its pink and purple exterior, with enough blasting power to fire darts up to 60 feet! Each super stealth blaster features its own unique deco, and is small enough to stash in a pocket or purse. Stylish spies will love that these blasters have room for double-dart storage, so back-up is never too far away. Includes four collectible darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH Mini Crossbow
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & /Approx. Retail Price $9.99/Available: Fall 13)
Stealth yet powerful, the NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH mini crossbow is a lightweight, sleek crossbow that lets girls get in the game with confidence and flair. Don’t let its sweet pink deco fool you – when the action gets tough, so does this crossbow! With elite performance that sends darts soaring up to 75 feet away and ample room for backup ammo on the bow’s arms, it allows players to rapidly reload at a moment’s notice. The NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH mini crossbow comes complete with four collectible darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE Accessory Bag
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $14.99/Available: Fall 13) Always make sure back-up ammo is within reach and reload on the go with the NERF REBELLE accessory bag, a stylish pack with ample room for storing accessories. The accessory bag features a pouch for holding darts, and includes 10 collectible darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE Crossbow
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up /Approx. Retail Price $24.99/Available: Fall 13)
An impressive crossbow with fast-flying dart action and flexing bow arms, this NERF REBELLE Crossbow blends blaster action with crossbow precision. Slide the front handle to flex the bow arms back and ready the blaster for play. Pull the trigger and watch the bow arms propel forward as darts soar up to 75 feet toward the target. By holding the trigger and pumping, players can instantly transition between single shot and multi shot mode, unleashing a rapid stream of darts for exciting nonstop action! Includes six collectible NERF REBELLE darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
A girl has to be ready for action at a moment’s notice, and the NERF REBELLE Dart Refill Packs ensure there’s always plenty of back-up. Each refill pack includes 12 collectible foam darts some colorful and some with fun funky patterns. Dart Refill Packs are compatible with all NERF REBELLE bows and blasters (each sold separately). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com
NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App (HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $14.99/Available: Fall 13)
Girls can grab a group of friends and experience the ultimate social adventure together in an App-enhanced world of the NERF REBELLE brand! To start the fun, fans can download the free NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App to their iPhone or iPod Touch, and insert the device into the stylish NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App cradle accessory. Attach the accessory to a compatible NERF REBELLE blaster (sold separately) and then it’s time to bring friends together for some serious fun! Within the app, players can create a personalized avatar and form squads with friends for multi-player gaming. NERF REBELLE players can capture photos and videos while in play, and even share the fun with friends. Players can also go on quests, compete to win in-game benefits, and even earn accessories for their avatar within the app. The NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL app will be available for download at the App Store and compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, and iPod Touch (4th Generation). Compatible with select NERF REBELLE blasters. Available at most major retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF VORTEX REVONIX360 Blaster
(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 2013)
Amp up freestyle foam blasting performance with the NERF VORTEX REVONIX360 blaster which achieves the farthest VORTEX distance yet, up to 70 feet! This disc blaster features new, awesome deco and has a revolving drum that rotates each time you fire the blaster. Plus, the SLAM FIRE Handle gives you total control over your rate of fire – blast a single shot or hold the trigger down and slide the handle repeatedly to unleash an unstoppable stream of discs. Includes 30 multi-color XLR discs. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
Foam From Above 
