Tag: nerf

Zach King’s #NERFNATION SHOW: Super Soakers, Jamie Costa, and CtF (Oh my!)

These little rundowns of The #NerfNationShow are kinda fun, it’s a good reminder that while yes there’s a huge fan base of Nerf modders and other special interest play groups out there, there’s always the larger population of casual players who just want to have fun.

So this week’s episode involves Zach King and Co. getting a shipment of Nerf Super Soaker blasters, and Jamie Costa as a ref, there isn’t much in the way of skits really (unlike last week) but definitely a lot more actual gameplay, sort of. Two teams use Super Soakers to tag each other out, and ultimately capture the other team’s flag. Maybe a Super Soaker group can chime in on how they do Capture the Flag?

We see a lot of new Super Soakers in the video, and the Nerf Splashmouth seems to get the most looks in the video, especially showing the dump feature. They don’t name or price any blasters in the video itself, and Zach King does some of his usual magic, but it’s definitely another structure and format different from the previous episode, and the episode before that. The new Laser Tag system was recently announced and should be coming out soon, I would expect that to show up in an episode in the near near future.

#NerfNationShow Episode 2 rundown! Zach King Tours the NERF FORTRESS

Zach King teased it earlier, but episode 2 of the Nerf Nation Show rolled out last week! It looks like they’re trying to do a video every Friday, and there was just a bit more structure to the episode. This episode ran about 5 minutes, and it looks like there will be blaster features (obviously, it’s a marketing tool and commercial. Kind of like an episode of Transformers back in the 80s), Zach mentions challenges (possibly in future episodes), and a running sketch about a robber being foiled.

Zach does the grand tour of the “Nerf Fortress” as they’re calling it, and it is a pretty sweet setup. Some highlights are the panic room, the fireman’s pole, and a zipline. There are a number of portals to blast from and multiple routes to get around, so how they battle in it will be interesting. No inflatables that I saw yet, like the ones from the initial preview videos.

According to Nerf’s Instagram, if you tag #NerfnationShow to a pic of your own Nerf Headquarters/Fortress, you’ll get a chance to be featured. Not quite the scale of Zach King’s but it’s a nice touch to think they’ll give you a shoutout. But how are you liking “The Nerfnation Show?” As the product is financed by Nerf, mods will most likely never be part of the programming. It’ll be skits, glitz, and commercial, but Zach King’s illusion and “magic” setups keep it neat and entertaining. Another episode could be out Friday, guess we will see what happens next.

SHÜ – Covert Dart blaster on Kickstarter

Nerf-Compatible Covert blaster in the works on Kickstarter!

Shu’s the brainchild of Jericho game and Foxhound Urban Adventures owner Shannon Bruzelius, who runs Foxhound Urban Adventures out in California:

Many years ago I ran across Foxhound and Jericho as an interesting gametype, and connected with Shannon over email. I am glad to see they are still going strong. The Shu blaster does serve a very practical need, as running around public streets with Nerf blasters or other conspicuous action props draws unnecessary attention and can very much jeopardize a game and the safety of players. Shu at first glance just looks like an oversized cell phone, which is considerably less visible than most Nerf blasters. The power seems comparable with a Jolt, and considering the gameplay, the range is perfectly geared to what they do. Additional development could lead to 60-70 FPS, but only at the success of the Kickstarter. With money from their campaign, they hope to produce more and hopefully fulfill a need that Assassin, Elimination, and any other clandestine game type demands.

They have 18 days to go, and a few prototypes are out there but the goal still has much work to be done. Make sure to please check out their page, and hope you can support this design! Good luck to them!

Nerf Prometheus Unboxed (and with 100% more firing demo!)

Opening up the Nerf Prometheus, firing/range video coming soon (the outdoors isn’t terribly cooperative today.)

Sample provided by Nerf! Opinions remain my own!




NERF RIVAL PROMETHEUS MXVIII-20K Blaster (Ages 14 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $199.99/Available: Fall 2018) Head into battle blazing to take on the competition with the NERF RIVAL PROMETHEUS MXVIII-20K blaster! This blaster features the new ADVANCED ACCELERATION SYSTEM which allows it to fire at a rate of 8 high-impact rounds per second! This blaster also holds a whopping 200 high-impact rounds in its easy-load hopper. The PROMETHEUS MXVIII20K blaster is fully motorized with a rechargeable NiMh battery for endless fun. Package includes blaster, 200 highimpact rounds, rechargeable NiMh battery, charger, two flags, shoulder strap and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

Enjoy! Make sure to like and subscribe!

Zach King’s NerfNation Show Goes live! (#NerfnationShow)

YouTuber/Magician Zach King announced some time ago that he would be producing “The Nerf Nation Show” and here it is:

And…. there you have it.

– This particular episode was a little over 4 mins. long.
– Covered Jared’s Epic Nerf Battle
– Showed off the Judge and the Nerf N-Strike Elite Infinus
– Running. So much running.
– Preview of the set they’ll be using.

In previous videos, eagle-eyed commenters noted the Delta Trooper was in the arsenal and he shows off other new blasters in the series preview. There were a few good shots, it was nice to see JT in there, and Zach King is good on camera (not surprising considering his own channel and history) so it’s a decent start of sorts? I would have liked more of an idea of what they’re going to do with each segment but at least the production values are there and as I caught myself watching his magic videos for extended time future videos could be just as compelling. I’m not quite sure what the format of the show is going to be, but there’s only one way to find out! Are you going to tune in again for the next episode?

And some actual Nerf news:

Nerf Perks
·         Be one of the FIRST to get the Nerf brand’s newest blasters. Starting July 1st, Nerf Perks members can use their points to redeem for any of the Nerf brand’s NEW blasters. Go to NerfPerks.com to redeem! Not a member? No problem! Sign up for free at nerfperks.com and start earning points! Open to US Residents 18+.
·         Members and non-members can use code NERF18 to get an extra 200 points to help you on your way to earning some awesome rewards.
·         Eligible Blasters include: Modulus Evader, Mega Thunderhawk, Elite Infinus, Elite Delta Trooper, Zombie Ripchain, Zombie Scravenger, Rival Prometheus, and Rival Hades
Nerf Fest
·         Get ready, because Nerf Fest is coming! All of the fall Nerf products will be hitting shelves on Monday, July 16th!

Street date for the new blasters is July 16th. New releases been spotted in Mexico and elsewhere (and the Delta Trooper is in the hands of some people already) but the samples should be coming out soon.

The Prometheus and the Hades by far were favorites, but I am really curious how the Mega Thunderhawk is going to be. It underperformed in my opinion at New York Toy Fair, so hopefully they made some adjustments since then and it’s going to fly! The harmonica clip on that blaster isn’t my favorite feature but the build itself was super solid, and the sliding barrel sheath(?) feature was pretty neat.

Nerf Mega Thunderhawk

Nerf Rival Prometheus

Nerf Rival Hades

Make sure to keep tabs for the next entry! By then it should be something from Buzz Bee. Or Zuru. Or maybe Nerf! And don’t forget to keep tabs on my social channels as well.

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Overwatch X Nerf press release! Nerf this, #Nerfnation

Everyone loving the Nerf Vortex releases? How about this news?

HASBRO JOINS BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT’S OVERWATCH® IN THE FIGHT FOR THE FUTURE AS MASTER TOY LICENSEE
Hasbro to Create Wide Range of Overwatch®Play Experiences
PAWTUCKET, R.I. & SANTA MONICA, CA – MAY 21, 2018 – Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) today announced that they have signed a licensing agreement with Blizzard Entertainment to become the global master toy licensee for the Overwatch® franchise. Hasbro will create a wide range of play experiences including NERF products, games and more, based on the growing Overwatch® universe and its characters. 
Overwatch is a highly-stylized team-based action game set in Earth’s near future. Featuring 27 playable heroes with unique powers and abilities, Overwatch immerses players in intense multiplayer showdowns where they must band together to keep the world safe from rising conflict. Overwatch is also the basis for the Overwatch League®, the first major global city-based esports league, featuring teams from Asia, Europe, and North America.
“We are thrilled to announce this partnership with Blizzard for the Overwatch franchise,” said Samantha Lomow, senior vice president, Hasbro. “The roster of bold, diverse characters, and a passionate following of more than 40 million players have inspired our teams to create an amazing product line that will not only appeal to the passionate Overwatch fan base, but also attract new fans into the Overwatch universe.”
“Overwatch has really taken on a life of its own with our global community, so it’s been important to us to work with partners who share our passion and commitment to quality when it comes to translating the spirit of the game into new real-world play experiences,” said Matthew Beecher, VP, Blizzard Consumer Products. “With Hasbro’s rich history of innovation and a long track record of bringing amazing worlds to life for new audiences, we couldn’t imagine a better or more appropriate teammate.”
The fight for the future will reach a new stage in January 2019, when Hasbro releases Overwatch® blasters in its NERF Rival line. Additional product categories will be launched Fall 2019 in the US and international markets. 

I have a slew of questions out to Nerf, stay tuned! 

Nerf VORTEX New (Again?) For 2018! – Nerf News

Nerf Vortex Returns in Fall 2018
Vas The Stampede

UPDATED: Unboxing video posted 5/8/2018 and Nerf Vortex Vigilon 2011 vs Nerf Vortex Vigilon 2018




And my old firing video of the original release of the Pyragon – 

NERF VORTEX VTX PYRAGON Blaster
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $59.99/Available: Fall 2018)
Take battling to the next level with the NERF VORTEX VTX PYRAGON blaster! With a 40-disc drum, this blaster is the highest-capacity VORTEX blaster yet. Battlers can take aim to swamp the competition with a fast-flying barrage of discs. Fire one disc at a time or fire all 40 darts rapidly with slam-fire action. With discs that can bank, curve, and ricochet, the competition will have to stay alert to keep track of their trajectory. Package includes blaster and 40 discs. Available exclusively at Target.
NERF VORTEX VTX PRAXIS Blaster
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $34.99/Available: Fall 2018)
Get ready for awesome free-style blasting with the NERF VORTEX VTX PRAXIS blaster! Pump-action power and removable clips allow battlers go the distance, keeping the competition on their toes.Load one clip into the blaster and keep the second nearby for quick reloading. Blast fast and create trick shots with discs that can bank, curve, and ricochet. The competition will never see them coming! Package includes blaster, two 10-disc clips and 20 discs. Available exclusively at Target.

And the first shot I fired out of the Vigilon as soon as I received samples way back when.
NERF VORTEX VTX VIGILON Blaster
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99/Available: Fall 2018)
Bend the rules of battle to create all kinds of trick shots with the NERF VORTEX VTX VILIGON blaster! The VORTEX VTX VIGILON blaster sends discs soaring through the air for rule bending bombardment. Open the drop-down door to access the internal clip, load five discs inside, then take aim and send one disc at a time. Re-load the clip for minimum reloading time and maximum blasting. The battle is on! Package includes blaster and 10 discs. Available exclusively at Target.
NERF VORTEX VTX DISC REFILL
(Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018)
Blast discs that soar and ricochet with the NERF VORTEX VTX blasters! Create all kinds of trick shots with these soft, flexible discs. Stock up for rule-bending battles with this refill pack that includes 20 NERF VORTEX VTX discs! Includes: 20 discs. Available exclusively at Target.
The initial leaked images were true! Nerf Vortex, after a few years of non-releases and hearing that lessons were learned from the line, is back! Coming out this fall (in addition to all the other huge releases) Nerf Vortex blasters are going to be exclusive to Target and having new colors with some of the old blasters of yore. No Nitron or Proton so far, but everything old is new again. The ranges were ok when compared to Nerf blasters pre-Elite but the real bonus (to some folks) was that the discs could be fired just right to  hook around an obstacle someone may be hiding behind. Mr. S at Nerd Drop figured it was Nerf’s “trick shot” line, and that was pretty true considering some of the marketing that followed after. Another story that came out was that it was going to be a whole “Vortex Vs Elite” theme between the two lines, but was deemed too aggressive for the 8+ crowd (so I heard).
Most of the feedback from other players were the discs were too expensive considering the disposable nature of Nerf wars, or the discs were inaccurate. Some players loved it but sales didn’t seem to translate well, especially after the Elite line was released. It was another ammo type to buy and when you combine the cost of ammo, that’s not a good mix. But the line is back (and for a more expensive price, but that’s the cost of inflation over years, maybe.) 
Either way, looking forward to the samples, and now it looks like the Vortex side of my collection gets new life breathed into it! Lock and Load, Nerf Nation.

"GIANT NERF BATTLE" – Illinois -The Write Up

Giant Nerf Battle takes place in Illinois – Around 200 Fling Foam in the Avanti’s Dome in Pekin, IL
A look at the field they set up for this event
With Click Click BAMF and some of his Iowa crew

I heard about the “Giant Nerf Battle” in Pekin, IL from the Internet (maybe CJ from ClickClickBamf tipped me off…) about a month ago, so naturally I kept tabs on it. I reached out to the host, followed the Facebook event, CJ was coming in with a few people from his crew out there so naturally, I made preparations to attend.

There’s an event in Dallas called “Jared’s Epic Nerf Battle” and it just wrapped up its 3rd year. I haven’t made it there, so given the proximity (2.5 hours) to go to Pekin vs. the much larger (and costly) trip of going to Dallas, I at least had to try to go to the Giant Nerf Battle.

What I knew was it was going to be in the Avantis Dome (pictured above), an inflatable dome somewhere in near Morton, IL. This was a first year event (the host, Mike, had held paintball events before, but this was the first time he was running a “Nerf” type event.) Knowing it was a first time thing, my expectations were low. With any convention, fan event, anything, if it’s a year One, I don’t expect much. Also, the rules, some promo material, were strangely reminiscent of the materials/videos/rules affiliated with Jared’s Epic Nerf Battle. Keeping all this in mind, I didn’t really know what to expect but any expectations had to be realistic.

There were a few rules right off the bat –

The main theme for the games were “Cubs vs Cards” which was basically Red vs Blue… if you showed up with Cubs gear/blue clothing you were assigned to the Cubs side of the field, Red/Cards gear meant the opposite side. A winner was declared at the end of each game, a point given to the Cubs or Cards accordingly. For those who may be scratching your head, Cubs is for “Chicago Cubs” and “Cards” is “St. Louis Cardinals”, eternal enemies in Major League Baseball’s National League.

Each game was going to be 6:00 – the first 3 minutes allowed respawning (run back to your “base” and tag in) and the last 3 minutes meant no more respawns. You couldn’t cross the midfield line until the last 1-2 minutes of each game. What that meant to me was to sit in the back until the last 3 minutes, and start then. There was no real incentive/rule to do anything before elimination. People would shoot at me, but all that meant was more ammo on our side of the field.

Games would be different themes, different age groups, different blaster types (all Rival, all Dart, I heard there was an HvZ round too) but same time limits each time, with a 10 minute or so break to collect ammo/reload.

The crowd looked just under 200 to me, (maybe close to 120 or so, including staff) and games had maybe upwards of 80 people on the field at one time. Final estimates look to be closer to 200 according to the field employees.

THE RUNDOWN:

Having been at the game, I have thoughts/opinions. I drove my own way there, I paid my own ticket in, if I got anything out of it it was CJ covering my food (thanks, man!)

The Field:

– Getting inside, the Avantis Dome was a single field with a few bleachers on the side for staging. It was nice enough and the field was big enough to accommodate the crowd. No real complaints there. I’m fielding opinions still on the field itself though… there was turf I think but the ground wasn’t very forgiving. I avoided sliding too much or doing any rolling as I had a near 3 hour drive back and didn’t want to increase chances of bringing an injury home. According to some folks, turf is supposed to be a bit squishy and soft, definitely not what I think I felt in this case.

– There were bunkers, and a lot of them! There was still a lot of space and lines to get your foam through, but the fun part happened when you could finally cross over to the other side. Otherwise I saw people finding favorite obstacles to stay behind or just standing in the open if they were farther back. I think I would have preferred having things a little tighter considering the size of the crowd. It did get intense the closer you got to midfield but the back rows were safe havens practically.

– Because it was in a stadium, the “rules” to the event included using only clear/transparent bags on the field. I had reached out to Mike (the host) if this meant we could bring in tubs or other lockable storage so long as we used transparent bags during play, but probably due to the hectic run-up to the event he hadn’t responded. I ended up purchasing new transparent bags to bring, but after arriving there it looked like that didn’t matter. I saw players showing up in military harnesses and running onto the field and no officials said anything. People were staging out of opaque tubs and no one got stopped there either. I ended up switching out for my usual belt/pouch combo and carried on in spite of the posted rules. 18 under had to keep eye protection on when on the field, and 18+ had it optional. For the most part, I didn’t hear about any serious eye injuries.

– Side note, they had various blasters and ammo for purchase as I found out, and along with that some ammo. I did find full vinyl jacket (FVJ) darts on those tables, as well as on the field. Not my favorite decision to sell that ammo as it’s banned at numerous meetups I know of, but I wonder if they researched ammo types available. (Again, this was a first time Nerf-style event for Mike.)

The Crowd:

– Lots of families (not surprising) and thus the younger side of 8+, unsurprising for an event like this. Parents would sometimes just be there to help their kid reload or track down ammo, but weren’t shooting blasters themselves. Props to them for bringing their kid to something unique like this.

– Honor system was… a guideline at best. I recall at least one moment that I had to stare at a kid to get him to respawn after tagging him out. Other players were crossing the 50 yard line before we were “allowed” to do so, referees were apparently not enforcing hits/rules too well (according to the folks I spoke with) and if you tried to tell people yourself I know at least one instance someone got a rude hand gesture for it. Nevermind some of the profanity I heard from adults yelling at kids, or other people just looking to talk garbage to others. Sure, it happens in large crowds but still doesn’t make it right.

– For the most part the attendees were there to play and burn off some energy/have a good time. Hits weren’t super serious to count, and the only real detractor was any rude/off color behavior. We’re already getting together to shoot Nerf toys, that’s inherently silly as it is. Let’s not be jerks while we’re at it. I suppose the issue I have with some of lack of enforcement is that there was an actual exchange of money involved here, a ticket purchased. If I wanted to horse around with blasters in a freeform scenario for a few hours I didn’t have to drive almost 3 hours to get there and pony up the money for a ticket. I could have gotten some friends together and did that closer to home.

The Game:

– As I mentioned, the rules were loosely enforced so with that in mind it was a loose gameplay experience. The uncrossable line seemed to catch some people off-guard and it didn’t matter to other players anyway, as I saw. The problem here seemed to be communication before the event in order to give players ample notice. Again, not that serious to keep to a strict play pattern but if you’re going in and paying money you almost want some structured game types to differentiate from what you can do at home.
– There was only elimination played, really. I would not have minded an attempt at few different game types like capture the flag or attack and defend variants. Again, this is where communication ahead of time would have been good. At a paintball event, Living Legends, the midfield area has scoring pods (on a hill) and people have to run foam bricks from their side into these pods. I don’t know how it would have worked here but something like that might have been a lot of fun with that much foam flying through the air. In a way to just have one game type (and maybe there was a zombies round) constantly played for 3 hours smacks of lack of planning and insight. Sure, it works for the majority of the crowd to have elimination but there is more out there to try out just for fun as well.
– No water fountains or stations available. Maybe I can be corrected in the comments, and yes there were in/out privileges for the arena, but if you weren’t buying water/refreshments at the concession stand. I think you just had to go thirsty. A concession stand was made available and I appreciate that food and drinks were there, but it seemed off to not even have the option to take a quick drink if you needed it, you had to leave and wait in line. Just seemed odd to me if that was the case.

ClickClickBAMF has a whole video on our chat after the event, keep an eye out for that! While it was great that a stadium game happened in Illinois, we weren’t sure this was the best foot forward. It was a first year event and had some definite issues, but maybe if they do more events they’ll put on a better show. I would like to say I am all ready to get back onto their field for the next game in June, but to be honest, I am neutral to going again. I wish them well on future games though, and hope to see more from Pekin Paintball in the future. For now though, it’s just not a good fit for what I want out of paying money to Nerf vs what was presented.

Nerf Fall 2018 Press Kit (From Toy Fair 2018)

Just to make it easier to find, here’s the press info from Toy Fair 2018 Nerf blasters, Nerf Nitro, Super Soaker, and more are all posted here.

The Fall 2018 N-STRIKE ELITE line includes: 

NERF N-STRIKE ELITE INFINUS Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $69.99/Available: Fall 2018) Load and fire fast with the NERF N-STRIKE ELITE INFINUS blaster! The INFINUS blaster features motorized Quick-Load Technology; as kids feed darts into the blaster, the darts are automatically loaded into the 30-dart removable drum. With motorized, rapid-fire blasting, kids can quickly unleash a barrage of darts on their targets. Hold down the acceleration button to power up the blaster, then pull the trigger to fire. The INFINUS blaster includes 30 Elite darts. Requires x batteries, not included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF N-STRIKE ELITE DELTATROOPER Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: Fall 2018) Be prepared for any battle with the NERF N-STRIKE ELITE DELTATROOPER blaster. With four ways to configure, this blaster gives kids epic possibilities with each removable accessory. No matter where the battle takes fans, the DELTATROOPER has you covered. Take along the core blaster when in action, attach the stock to stabilize shots, or attach the barrel extension for distance targeting. The DELTATROOPER blaster comes with a 12-dart clip and 12 ELITE darts allowing kids to unleash a dozen darts in a row. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF N-STRIKE ELITE ACCUSTRIKE QUADRANT Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Take on targets with intense accuracy with the NERF N-STRIKE ELITE QUADRANT blaster! This single-shot blaster features a 4-dart rotating drum so players can sweep through the battlefield. Load the darts into the drum, pull the handle back to prime, then pull the trigger to fire one dart. Small and compact, the NERF N-STRIKE ELITE QUADRANT blaster is great for high-intensity, on the move battles. Package includes blaster, four ELITE darts, and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF ACCUSTRIKE MEGA THUNDERHAWK Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99/Available: Fall 2018) Introducing Nerf’s first ever MEGA ACCUSTRIKE blaster! Blast with power and precision with the NERF MEGA THUNDERHAWK blaster. The barrel extension slides back and forth on the top of the blaster for custom performance allowing for distance targeting or a more compact blaster. The THUNDERHAWK allows for steady shots with the flip-down bipod for MEGA performance with ACCUSTRIKE accuracy. The THUNDERHAWK blaster includes a 10-dart, side-loading indexing clip and 10 NERF MEGA ACCUSTRIKE darts. Also compatible with NERF MEGA darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Fall 2018 MODULUS line includes: 

NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS EVADER Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 2018) Stay in stealth mode or light the way with the NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS EVADER blaster! Part of the GHOST OPS series, the MODULUS EVADER is completely clear to keep players undetected on any mission. Illuminate the blaster to guide the way in low-light situations by pressing the light activator. Customize the blaster with the barrel extension which lights up when attached to the blaster. Load the 12-dart clip into the Evader blaster, take aim, and unleash 12 darts in a row with rapid-fire motorized blasting. Enemies will never see you coming! Package includes blaster, clip housing cover, barrel extension, 12-dart clip 12 darts, and instructions. Requires 4 “AA” alkaline batteries (demo batteries included). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF MODULUS ULTIMATE CUSTOMIZER PACK (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $99.99/Available: Fall 2018) Upgrade any NERF MODULUS blaster with the NERF MODULUS ULTIMATE CUSTOMIZER pack for the ultimate in Nerf Modulus blaster building and customization! The motorized blaster comes with 7 tactical accessories to prepare for any mission or battle. The NERF MODULUS ULTIMATE CUSTOMIZER pack gives player the power to switch on the tactical light to illuminate targets for practice, power up the blaster’s motor with the acceleration button for rapid-fire dart blasting, focus their aim with the flip-up sight, and so much more. Package includes seven tactical accessories, two 10-dart banana clips, 40 darts, and four missiles. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS REFLECTIVE TARGETING KIT (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.99/Available: Fall 2018) Battlers can practice their skills day or night with the NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS REFLECTIVE TARGETING kit. The two Reflective targets feature LED lights, so no matter the time of day, targets are visible and ready for target practice! Attach the adjustable sight to the tactical rail of the NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS EVADER blaster, sold separately, to send a beam of light allowing players to perfect their accuracy skill. The REFLECTIVE TARGETING kit includes adjustable sight and two reflective targets; blaster sold separately. Requires two “AAA” alkaline batteries (not included). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS CHRONOBARREL (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.99/Available: Fall 2018) Players can upgrade their NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS EVADER blaster (sold separately) with the dart counting accessory, of the NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS CHRONOBARREL attachment. Attach the NERF MODULUS GHOST OPS CHRONOBARREL to the front of the blaster then program the barrel to see how many darts have already been fired or the number of darts remaining in the blaster. With a built-in memory, the accessory keeps players updated in real time on remaining darts in the barrel! For additional intel, the NERF MODULUD GHOST OPS CHRONOBARREL attachment measures the velocity of the darts being fired in either feet or meters per second to keep track of all shots! The CHRONOBARREL attachment includes six darts; blaster sold separately. Requires two “AAA” alkaline batteries (not included). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Fall 2018 RIVAL line includes: 

NERF RIVAL PROMETHEUS MXVIII-20K Blaster (Ages 14 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $199.99/Available: Fall 2018) Head into battle blazing to take on the competition with the NERF RIVAL PROMETHEUS MXVIII-20K blaster! This blaster features the new ADVANCED ACCELERATION SYSTEM which allows it to fire at a rate of 8 high-impact rounds per second! This blaster also holds a whopping 200 high-impact rounds in its easy-load hopper. The PROMETHEUS MXVIII20K blaster is fully motorized with a rechargeable NiMh battery for endless fun. Package includes blaster, 200 highimpact rounds, rechargeable NiMh battery, charger, two flags, shoulder strap and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF RIVAL PHANTOM CORPS HADES XVIII-6000 Blaster (Ages 14 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $69.99/Available: Fall 2018) Experience intense head-to-head competition with the NERF RIVAL HADES XVIII-6000 blaster! Load 60 high-impact rounds into the easy-load integrated magazine, prime, and pull the trigger to fire a barrage at your enemies. Whether Team Red, Team Blue, or Phantom Corps, Rival battles will never be the same. Package includes blaster, 60 high-impact rounds, two flags and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Fall 2018 ZOMBIE STRIKE line includes: 

NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM SCRAVENGER Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99/Available: Fall 2018) Zombie survivors are prepared for anything with the NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM SCRAVENGER blaster! This essential zombie defense kit keeps battlers ready for any zombifying challenge that comes their way. Load a 12-dart clip into the SCRAVENGER and unleash a dozen darts in a row. Grab the extra clip from the holder and slam-fire the zombies away with the on/off slam-fire button, or stabilize shots with the stock/blaster attachment to never miss a target. The 2- dart back-up blaster allows battlers to surprise oncoming zombies who will never see it coming. Package includes blaster, stock with blaster, scope, tactical light, barrel extension, two 12-dart clips, 26 ZOMBIE STRIKE ELITE darts, and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE RIPCHAIN Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 2018) Rip into action against the zombies with the NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE RIPCHAIN blaster! The 25-dart chain allows battlers to defend their turf against a zombie incursion. Fire one ZOMBIE STRIKE dart at a time, or slam-fire all 25 darts to swarm the targets. Load the darts onto the chain, place the chain on the blaster, then pump the handle to prime the blaster and pull the trigger to fire a dart. The NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE RIPCHAIN blaster is ready to take on any zombie, any time. Package includes blaster, dart chain, 25 ZOMBIE STRIKE ELITE darts, and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM CHOPSTOCK Attachment (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Fall 2018) Part of the new NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM, the CHOPSTOCK attachment gives battlers a new way to strike back at the zombies! The CHOPSTOCK attachment doubles as a foam axe and stock attachment. Simply attach to any NERF blaster with compatible stock attachment point to use as a stock, or extend handle to use as an axe. Package includes foam axe stock. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM TWINSLICE Attachment (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Fall 2018) The zombie survivors are prepared for anything- with the new NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE SURVIVAL SYSTEM TWINSLICE attachment! Attach holder to any NERF blaster with a tactical rail and remove the stars to send them flying at oncoming zombies. The zombies won’t know what hit them! Package includes two foam stars and holder. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HabsroToyShop.com.

NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE WRATHBOLT Blaster (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.99/Available: Spring 2018) When zombie fighters need to strike back at the zombies, they use the NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE WRATHBOLT Crossbow! Take aim at zombie hordes and release soft-tipped arrows at the targets. To fight back against oncoming zombies, pull back the string and hook it in place, load an arrow into the crossbow, and pull the trigger to send the arrow slicing through the air. Package includes crossbow, bow arms, two whistler arrows, and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Fall 2018 MICROSHOTS line includes:

NERF MICROSHOTS SERIES Assortment (Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $6.99/Available: Fall 2018) Battle opponents like never before with the NERF MICROSHOTS SERIES 2 Assortment! MICROSHOTS blasters capture the iconic look of the original NERF blasters fans know and love, but in a micro, super-deformed fun size. Simply load, prime, and pull the trigger for big fun in a small package. This one-shot blaster is as fun to collect as it is to blast! Series 2 includes one micro-sized version of the NERF N-STRIKE ELITE ROUGH CUT 4X4 blaster, NERF N-STRIKE ELITE STRYFE blaster, and NERF ZOMBIE STRIKE CROSSFIRE bow. Each package includes one blaster and two ELITE darts. Each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Fall 2018 NITRO line includes: 

NERF NITRO DOUBLECLUTCH INFERNO Blaster (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 2018) Fire up an inferno of double action blasting with the DOUBLECLUTCH INFERNO blaster! This 2-barrel blaster allows kids to launch two cars at the same time. Set up targets, ramps, and obstacles and send cars flying through the air. Challenge friends to see who can take on the ultimate obstacle, whose car will soar the highest, or go the farthest. Package includes blaster, four NERF NITRO foam cars with plastic wheels, double ramp, eight obstacles, double pop-up target and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO SPEEDLOOP Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2018) Create 360-degree stunts with the NERF NITRO SPEEDLOOP Stunt Set! Featuring a 2-piece loop with FLEXWAY technology, the SPEEDLOOP sends cars zooming up the ramp, around the vertical loop, and out the other end to complete the stunt. Create distance jumps and stunt challenges like never before with this epic set. Kids will have a blast zooming and looping through the SPEEDLOOP all day long. Package includes NITRO THROTTLESHOT BLITZ blaster, two NERF NITRO foam cars, loop, ramp, and instructions. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO ZAPBLAST Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Build bigger, epic stunt courses with the NERF NITRO ZAPBLAST Stunt Set! Use the spinning barrier with any NERF NITRO blaster to add an exciting twist to stunts and obstacles. Fire a car through the barrier and watch as the center spins! Package includes foam car and stunt. Blasters and sets each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO BARREL KNOCKOUT Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Have barrels of fun with the NERF NITRO BARREL KNOCKOUT stunt set! Use the BARREL KNOCKOUT with any NERF NITRO blaster to fire the car up the ramp, knocking down the barrels! Create countless combinations of barrel obstacles and watch as the NERF NITRO foam car demolishes them all. Package includes foam car and stunt. Blasters and sets each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO DOUBLE ACTION Stunt Set Assortment (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Double the stunt excitement with the NERF NITRO DOUBLE ACTION stunt set! Featuring 2-in-1 stunt action, kids can build big stunt courses for their NERF NITRO world. Drop down the ramp and blast the car up the ramp to soar in the air with the Slammin’ Soar Stunt Set or, blast the car up the ramp and smash through the ring with The Bullseye Blast Stunt Set. Put both stunts together for crazy stunt-action fun! Package includes one foam care and two stunts. Blasters and sets each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO SLIMESTREAM Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $3.99/Available: Fall 2018) Slime is no match for NERF NITRO with the NERF NITRO SLIMESTREAM stunt set! Use the SLIMESTREAM with any NERF NITRO blaster and watch the car fly up the ramp and through the slime ring. Get ready for slimetastic fun all day long as NERF NITRO foam cars break through the slime time after time. Package includes one foam car and one stunt. Blasters and sets each sold separately. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO FOAM CAR 16 Pack Ast. (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $24.99Available: Fall 2018) Blast into overdrive! Kids can create awesome stunts as they fire foam cars from blasters that feature the power and performance of Nerf! Blast into stunts to go high, go far, go fast! This set includes 16 foam cars for use with Nerf Nitro blasters (each sold separately). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO SLAMMIN’ SOAR Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Send cars slammin’ and soaring with the NERF NITRO SLAMMIN’ SOAR Stunt Set! Featuring 2-in-1 stunt action. Smash into the first stunt challenge, and trigger the second stunt challenge into position! Once both targets are hit, the bucket drops down to create the second stunt. Blast into a double challenge and watch as the NERF NITRO vehicle soars into the air! This set includes one foam body car for use with NERF NITRO blasters (each sold separately). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO BULLSEYE BLAST Stunt Set (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Fall 2018) Launch cars right into the BullsEye with the NERF NITRO BULLSEYE BLAST Stunt Set! This stunt set features 2-in-1 stunt action designed for kids to blast into a double challenge with each launch of a foam body car. Take aim at the first stunt challenge, and when it’s smashed, the bullseye ring swings up, creating a second stunt. Kids can fire the car up the ramp to fly through the ring! This set includes one foam car for use with NERF NITRO blasters (each sold separately). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF NITRO TRANSFORMERS BUMBLEBEE SPEEDBLAST Blaster (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99Available: Fall 2018) Blast into overdrive with the NERF NITRO TRANSFORMERS BUMBLEBEE SPEEDBLAST blaster! Featuring Transformers Bumblebee character deco, kids can design daring stunts for the Bumblebee, Cliff jumper, and Barricade foam body cars. Blast the cars up the ground bridge and through the barrier! Place the blaster on the floor, pull the handle back to prime, load a car into the blaster, and pull the trigger to send cars flying through the air. Includes blaster, three foam body cars and two stunts. Available exclusively at Toys “R” Us and Toys “R” Us.com.

The Fall 2018 NERF SPORTS DUDE PERFECT line includes:

NERF SPORTS DUDE PERFECT HOVERKUP Game (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2018) Take trick shots to the next level with the challenging NERF SPORTS DUDE PERFECT HOVERKUP game! The NERF SPORTS DUDE PERFECT HOVERKUP game features two battery-powered cups that glide and hover across flat surfaces while players try to bounce the balls into the moving cups! Practice trick shots in solo mode, challenge a friend in 1-on-1 competitions, or have a group split into teams to compete for the highest score or outdo each other’s trick shots. With a customizable play arena, players can adjust the size and shape of the arena to fit any space! Package includes arena, two cups, six balls, four suction cups, cord, and a cord tensioner. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF DUDE PERFECT MINI PERFECT SHOT HOOP (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $14.99/Available: Fall 2018) Practice the perfect shot with the NERF SPORTS DUDE PERFECT MINI PERFECTSHOT HOOP. Hang the hoop almost anywhere and use the innovative clip and ball joint to create the best trick shots at almost any angle. Perfect solo shots or challenge some friends indoors or outdoors. The MINI PERFECT SHOT HOOP includes backboard, rim, net and three foam balls. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF SPORTS VORTEX HOWLER ACCELERATOR (Ages 5 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Fall 2018) Kids can amp up every throw with the NERF SPORTS VORTEX HOWLER ACCELERATOR. The easy throw design allows kids to accelerate their throw while achieving a greater distance! Place the VORTEX AERO HOWLER ball in the scoop and then fling the VORTEX HOWLER ACCELERATOR launcher forward to send the ball flying. Includes two VORTEX HOWLER ACCELERATOR launchers and one VORTEX AERO HOWLER ball. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

The Summer 2018 SUPER SOAKER line includes:

NERF SUPER SOAKER ZOMBIE STRIKE RIPSTORM Water Blaster (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Summer 2018) Shred or stream water with the NERF SUPER SOAKER ZOMBIE STRIKE RIPSTORM water blaster! This pump-to-fire action blaster holds up to 50 fluid ounces to keep the zombies at bay. Lower the blade into the stream of water and send water spattering wildly onto the oncoming zombie herds. Switch up the attack by raising the blade to drench zombies in a soaking stream of water. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF SUPER SOAKER SOAKZOOKA Water Blaster (Ages 7 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Summer 2018) Drench the competition with the NERF SUPER SOAKER SOAKZOOKA water blaster! The SOAKZOOKA holds up to 55 fluid ounces so battlers can keep pouring on the soakage. Soak battlers with a floodtastic blast! Move the handle back and forth to swamp anyone in range with a massive blast of water. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF SUPER SOAKER TWIN TIDE Water Blaster (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $12.99/Available: Summer 2018) The tide is coming in – prepared to be soaked with the NERF SUPER SOAKER TWIN TIDE water blaster! The NERF SUPER SOAKER TWIN TIDE has two barrels to deliver twin streams of drenchifying fun with every shot. Fill the tank with up to 33 fluid ounces, pump the handle, and watch as opponents get drenched with a double shot of soakage. Soak and get soaked with this twin tidal wave of water-blasting action. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF SUPER SOAKER SPLASH MOUTH Water Blaster (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Summer 2018) Blast it or dump it – either way, the competition will get soaked with the NERF SUPER SOAKER SPLASH MOUTH water blaster! With two modes for unleashing water, kids can pump to fire a stream of water at opponents or take them by surprise and dup all the water at once! The SPLASH MOUTH holds up to 20 fluid ounces allowing kids to experience a deluge of splashtastic fun all day long. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF SUPER SOAKER ZOMBIE STRIKE DREADSIGHT Water Blaster (Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $9.99/Available: Summer 2018) Nothing soaks like a NERF SUPER SOAKER water blaster, and now battlers can take down the zombie with the NERF SUPER SOAKER ZOMBIE STRIKE DREADSIGHT water blaster! This pump-to-fire action blaster holds up to 20 fluid ounces to deliver a deluge of dread upon the zombie herds. Use the targeting scope to focus aim while blasting a stream of water onto the zombies. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

New York Toy Fair Nerf Showroom 2018 – A Blogger Story

The Nerf Wall at New York Toy Fair

Big thanks to Michael Ritchie for taking the time to speak with me while I was visiting today. If you want to see the full gallery, for now please check out Foam From Above on Facebook.

It was quite the visit! I spoke with Michael about a lot of the new developments over the coming year, and not a lot that I can really substantiate (because they have a lot of ongoing discussions.) What these discussions I can’t say, but one key element is the Kingsman agreement with Nerf to open an arena in Asia. I likened this to the Paragon/UK situation a few years ago, but that was very limited in scope to the UK. The arrangement with Asia isn’t. I’ve been messaged by a comrade in Singapore who has some insight to this, and it’s interesting, is all I’ll say. Hasbro’s Singapore branch better pay attention though, there’s a very stout community out there and it would be nice to see that fandom involved somehow in the development of this plan.

I did ask the U.S. side of things and… it’s ongoing. One key thing I think I picked up was that Hasbro is a much larger experience than Nerf. As fans we have to remember that there’s a lot going on at there that’s more than the community. Transformers, Power Rangers now, and Gaming. Hasbro Gaming accounted for one of the top branches of performance in Hasbro’s Business. What does this mean for us? That while yes, maybe arenas will happen, but they will be so much more. As for existing arenas, well, that’s another conversation for another day.

Having spoken to a few arena owners in the past, I brought up the subject of possible industrial-grade supplies and ammo. While the feedback was something unique, who knows if the demand is high enough for them to consider it. The stresses of blasters in arena-level usage might match the stress testing at HQ? Still, it was an interesting point to bring up. One new bit of info I heard was the preference of the pump-action grip vs a handle, as while I was here I heard apparently the Artemis handle has a habit of cracking. Bringing this up to the Nerf reps, they were intrigued about how it happened.

There are a few other subjects we broached, but I’ll leave those to the walls of the showroom.

Let’s talk blasters.

This little surprise is the Delta Trooper. The information wasn’t fully given to me in a press kit, so I don’t have the price on the Delta Trooper right now (I can’t speak for anyone else) but I’ll get it as soon as I can. What I can tell you is it is spiritually like a Retaliator (they say the design is a bit modernized, and I can see that with some of the smoother lines on the blaster) and it has slamfire. Even better that this has slamfire and A STOCK. Maybe someone in the comments can remind me, but slamfire on a Recon was a mod at one point, wasn’t it? Either way, at first glance and a little bit of usage, it felt pretty cool. I like it.

Next up, Nerf Zombie Strike Scravenger. I believe everyone figured this was the Modulus for Zombie Strike, and they were right. You have the attachments and everything to start off the Scravenger main body, and, and then there will be follow up accessory packs. In addition to the first-ever switch for Slamfire/lever blasting action, the accessories included are a smart-AR two shot jolt, barrel extension, magazine holder, scope, and red sight. The Twinslice (buzz saw blades) and Chop Stock (Axe-tension) are going to be future accessory kits to add-on to the Scravenger, sold separately. The fun part about the Twinslice is it’s not the bayonet people initially thought; it’s a holster for throwable buzz saw blades. Caught me by surprise, for sure. The Chop Stock is adjustable, and has foam edges. The main construction is plastic, but the edges are foam.

Evader

Chronograph/Ammo counter

The Nerf Ghost Ops Evader is basically a stryfe; stock attach point, single trigger pull per shot, but obviously the grip and feel is a little different. The big features are the light-up aspects of the blaster, but the additional accessory functions as an ammo counter and chronograph. You can start the count at a certain number (say a 35 round drum) and have it count down, or start counting from 0 to count up. The community has been using chronys for testing for years, and Nerf’s picked up on the pattern. Additionally, they now have their own ammo counter design out now, but anyone who’s been around also knows there’s a third party Ammo Counter, who makes a similar (but with significant differences) product. The blaster was a low enough profile that it didn’t feel awkward to use, so at this point I think it’s pretty neat. Definitely looking forward to seeing it again later this year.

Oh, the Hades. Sweet, sweet, Hades. Huge capacity, slamfire, decent accuracy. At least from what I could tell since the range was full at the time I took the picture and tried the blaster out. The reload is similar to the Artemis, surprising no one. But having the blaster long enough to rest against the shoulder, along with sighting down the barrel, it was super comfortable to use. I recently heard that Artemis handles might break, at the point where it attaches to the blaster, just because of the direction of the force on the handle, versus a shotgun pump grip. I did mention this to Nerf, and they seemed receptive to at least knowing that this happens (and I saw it for myself). Whether that damage happens from inordinate levels of use (necessitating industrial grade plastic or something close) or just super unfortunate user error, or a little of both, I’m not sure. Either way, definitely a really solid feeling and cool blaster for the line. Also, loud. Had to ease up on the slamfire since another group was nearby 😉

The Nerf Mega Thunderhawk….  imposing, aesthetically very interesting, and it feels like a solid and powerful rifle. I’ll have video eventually but I think this was still a very prototype model, as the darts drooped a bit for some shots. Maybe it was the ammo, but I’d give this another look at release. One interesting design note is that the magazine is integrated. It starts on the left, and progresses to the right, then when you empty the mag you push it back to the left, like a typewriter. On the one hand, it spares you buying new magazines, but on the other I don’t know how left-handed users will receive this. Additionally, the mag sticks out so far I’d be wary of using it indoors just in case there’s a narrow doorway and accidents happen. As established the blaster’s barrel extension moves manually, no spring-loaded action when moving the bipod. Even the sliding motion feels robust and powerful, there’s no other way to describe it. Whether you use the snub nose configuration or extend the barrel, the blaster has weight and a feel of transforming it that really makes a significant noise and feel. As for the Accustrike Mega darts, there’s no groove like regular size accustrike darts, and the head is basically solid just flush with the foam body and holes to make a whistle. Worth another look at release definitely.

The Nerf Infinus – what a design. The Quickload technology is new, and pretty freaking awesome. Supposedly works with any mag, and if it jams it knows to shift two times in a row. The door jam is also on the side, so there is a way to get in. You don’t have to hold down the accelerator trigger to activate the Quickload either, it’s basically “always on.” Definitely feels a little heavy in the back, but the blaster is a robust build and feels pretty solid. The blaster is full auto, so you definitely need to reload on the move with something like this. The rate of fire didn’t feel as fast as a Hyperfire I think, but given the early state at Toy Fair, I’ll give it a pass on that for now. But the new feature worked perfectly, and I am heavily encouraged at seeing that. Definitely something to give a look when it’s released as well.

Oh, the PROMETHEUS.

It has its own type of rechargeable battery pack, $199.99 MSRP. So, it’s big, expensive, heavy, and LOUD.

But so neat, to put it lightly.

Right off, as shown in the video, the Prometheus stalled at loading. Like the Nemesis, as the hoppers are gravity fed, sometimes the blaster needs to be shaken. While using this akimbo, that gets a little difficult to do consistently. On the handle, there’s a safety, accelerator trigger, and firing trigger. In a way, it almost feels like what I would imagine a flightstick on a jet would be with all the switches. It has tactical rails, attach points, a slightly higher rate of fire than most other blasters, and super high capacity. You can also hear that it packs a bit of a punch for a stock blaster. Loading issues aside, it’s Nerf’s “shock and awe” level blaster and say what you want, but the strategy works. A blaster that’s $200, 200 shots, and Rival speeds, what’s not to notice about it? The way the blaster is held, at the waist with the strap, almost reminds of seeing Sigourney Weaver as Ripley with a flamethrower in Aliens. The handgrip is different but the stream of ammo and the posture to fire it is satisfying tactile experience. Clearly the blaster won’t be for everybody (because cost) but if you manage to get one, it’s definitely a good blaster to have, even looking at it this early. The loading is easily solved with a little shaking, and with that much ammo to shoot losing accuracy due to shaking isn’t necessarily a concern. 😉

The Nerf Ripchain was different… I didn’t expect to see Nerf going with chains again on any blaster any time soon but it looks like they did here. It opens up like a Vulcan, and the belts looks similar to Vulcan chains (so I think that stack of chains I have from the past are going to come back like a pair of retro bellbottoms). One note is that the plastic on the Ripchain chains feels a bit stronger than the old Vulcan chains, interpret that as you will. As for the blaster itself, it has slamfire, is pump-action, and decorated as Zombie Strike is. It felt comfortable enough to shoot, the chains obviously swing around so it’s not a blaster you can be sneaky with or run without sounding an alarm. But what’s old (chains) is new again here. Much like the zombies in the Zombie Strike universe chains are rising up in Nerf blasters with the Ripchain.

EDIT: The Vulcan chains are not going to be compatible with the Ripchain, per a source from Nerf. In fact, it’s recommended to not even attempt. (March 5, 2018)

There were also new goggles for Rival, Series 2 of microshots (all still one barrel, Roughcut microshot is still one dart), some new licensed bags and things, and then some new store exclusives, including a Phasma Rival blaster like the Deadpool and Boba Fett sets that were out last year. Deadpool is also going to get an Apollo colored version, so plenty more in store exclusives (Best Buy, Gamestop, and so on) with the Nerf line as well.