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A clockwork nerf
Did you grab your Clockwork Robot Bot from under the tree this Winter's Veil? I did, and I was thrilled to find that the little wind-up robot is more or less what we asked for a while back-- when two of these guys are summoned next to each other, they'll battle it out. Now, they only have a few HP, so really, just one hit from one usually takes the other out.Unless you can buff them, that is. A few people found that you could cast Power Word: Shield and Power Word: Fortitude on the bots when they first came out, which meant that you could give them more health and make them invincible for a few seconds. Unfortunately, Max Bliss found out that's not the case any more-- Blizzard has performed a clockwork nerf, and the bots are now unbuffable. Lame.Sure it may be imbalanced that some people can buff their bots and make them live longer, but this is hardly an instance of life or death. Let the bots be buffed, Blizzard!
Mongoose Studio's RGBy3.0 gets all chameleon on us
It's not like mood lights haven't been used in unorthodox manners before, but Mongoose Studio's RGBy3.0 puts a twist on the traditional color changing device by enabling it to take the hue of whatever it sits atop. Apparently, the portable creation rocks color sensors that interpret the shade beneath, and subsequently, the LEDs within change to mimic it. As of now, it looks as if the device is still in prototype stage, but rather than just crossing your fingers hoping that it goes commercial, why not check out a video of it in action after the jump?[Via Technabob]
German receives prototype Pleo, hacked up box
After waiting for what seems like ages, we can imagine just how excited one would be to finally receive that beautiful brown shipping container with their very own Pleo tucked within. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on perspective) for one particular German, an unspecified retailer sent out what appears to be a prototype dino, complete with a pieced together box that once held a fax machine. Interestingly, it seems the lucky recipient is rather perturbed by the incident, but being the optimistic crew that we are, we'd actually hang on to this thing for bragging rights or discover its true value courtesy of eBay. Hit the read link for a few more shots.[Thanks, Jared C.]
Sega Toys Brain Checker keeps you on your toes
Though we don't believe this to be one of those "mind-controlled tech toys" Sega Toys was working on, it's pretty evident that it will give your mind a workout. From what we can tell, the Brain Checker is a standalone gizmo designed to stretch your mental muscles with a myriad puzzles, but most everything beyond that is lost in translation. We do know, however, that it can be had in Japan for around ¥5,775 ($51), but who knows if it'll make it's way to any other corners of the globe.[Via Technabob]
Today's most bribe-filled video: NiGHTS Japan 'Toy Promo' TV ad
Dear Japanese consumers,Here is a television commercial for our upcoming Nintendo Wii title NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams. We know the reviews haven't hailed it as the Second Coming of Sega just yet, but we're hopeful Rip Van Winkle will visit each and every one of those critics tonight and send them off to a happy place. But let's move on from those nasty reviewers, shall we?If we can put aside pesky written words for a minute, we'd like to show you a commercial for the new game that is sure to grab your attention. It's bright, colorful and full of tangible happiness. We even have our staple J-Pop soundtrack blasting in the background! But if that won't convince you to buy the game -- and how could it not?! -- we'd also like to let you know that you can get the most adorable NiGHTS toy with the game, which is sure to remind you of even the best years for the franchise.Video embedded after the break. Hugs and Kisses,Sega
Mario Kart Go! makes us want to go broke
We're no slot-car racing aficionados, and yet we're still impressed by this Mario Kart themed kit for sale at Firebox. Luckily for us and our itchy "have to buy it, can't resist" fingers, this $90 toy is out of stock. The only disappointing thing about the track is that you can't choose which characters you want (it automatically comes with Mario and Wario), but overall it's probably a nice gift for anyone into video games and slot-car racing.[Via GoNintendo]
Self-Destruction Button returns in miniaturized form
Who could forget the famed Big Red Button of Doom from 2005? Sure, nearly three years have passed since its inception, but there's nothing like a little (literally) impostor to conjure up memories of the not-too-distant past. Available now, the miniature Self-Destruction Button comes in black, white and green motifs, fits snugly in the palm of one's hand and even doubles as a keychain. This highly portable device ensures the instant vaporization of your person and most of your surroundings should you find yourself in some horrifically inescapable situation, or, something to that effect, anyway. Grab yours now for $26.94 -- Y3K is just around the bend![Via AkihabaraNews]
Hello Kitty gets two new Bluetooth headsets
What better to go with your shiny new Hello Kitty-themed phone than -- wait for it -- a Bluetooth headset doused in cuteness? Apparently, a pair of these very devices have managed to surface, and we're sure gals everywhere are clamoring to get their hands, er, ear under one. Granted, we've no idea how well these things would actually work (nor how much they'll cost), but the adorable factor is undeniably through the roof. If you're not already overwhelmed, feel free to check out the other version after the break.[Thanks, Mickel]
Sakura robot skates around, keeps your princess entertained
Considering that gift-giving time is right around the bend, it's no shock to see companies start cranking out gizmos that will perfectly stuff those lonely stockings. On the docket today is the Sakura robot, which dons a pink outfit, totally hip hairdo and a quasi-futuristic skateboard. Apparently, she can belt out a few jokes, school you with several "fun facts and fashion tips" and play back five different songs. Additionally, her board can be remotely controlled, and if you two build up a certain level of trust, you can record "secrets" within that will only be repeated should you insert the requisite key. Sounds like a total blast, eh? Go on, you know your princess is worth the £49.99 ($103) -- and hey, at least this thing won't teach her how to totally ruin her credit.[Via Coolest-Gadgets]
Konami's push-up counter keeps you motivated
Trust us, we know how tough it is to count to 999 in our head while closing in on a cool thousand push-ups, so we could not be more excited to see Konami's push-up counter. Okay, our entire team couldn't hit 1,000 collectively in one sitting (okay, maybe so on a good day), but for those macho, macho men out there, this thing will certainly keep you motivated as you look to max one out and hop over to another. Feel free to start the chin-to-big red button-action as soon as you muster up ¥1,764 ($15) required to claim one of your own.[Via TechDigest]
New Tachikoma spider robot on the loose
Ghost in the Shell fans, unite. Your favorite killer spider is back once more, as Bandai is delivering a newfangled version which stands 9.5-centimeters high and connects to your PC via USB. Apparently, this creature comes bundled with software which enables it to play back voice messages and fire up mini-games when it's not emitting sounds through the built-in speaker or catching your eye with its integrated LEDs. Unfortunately, it looks like this creature won't actually be uncaged until next February, but that'll give you some time to save up the ¥13,440 ($115) that you'll need come launch day.[Via TokyoMango]
Last day to enter WoW Insider's Brewfest Giveaway
Just a reminder that today is the last day to enter a comment (on the other post, not this one) to get a chance at winning this striking Thargas Anvilmar toy... sorry again-- "Action Figure" from WoW Insider and DC Unlimited. Brewfest ends on Tuesday, and this figure doesn't release in stores until October 24th, but we here at WoW Insider are making the best of the drinking festival and hooking one lucky reader up with this baby, a Dwarf Warrior outfitted in Tier 5!To enter, put a comment on our original post (not this post) by this afternoon at 3pm EST telling us what your favorite drink for Brewfest is. You guys all went with the "in-game" idea, which is fine, but personally, I like drinking out of game a lot better than in-game (in-game drinking just gives me a headache). So for me, Jack and Coke is the drink of choice. For beer, definitely Fat Tire with a meal, or Guinness if it's just a pint at the pub.But good luck with the contest! Official rules are here (short version: must be in the US and 18 or older, one randomly selected comment will win and you can only enter once). Happy Brewfest!
When good toys go bad IX: Barbie's Fashion Fever fosters bad credit
Note to parents: if you'd like your tweens not to run up extraordinary bills on the shared credit card when they head out to the mall, start by passing on Barbie's Fashion Fever Shopping Boutique playset. This innocent looking package allows youngsters to shop 'til they drop with fake plastic, but rather than actually hitting a credit limit and getting rejected, the card delivers the wrong message by simply allowing kids to spend as much dough as they'd like without any negative consequences. Take a look at the commercial after the jump.[Via Gearlog]
Show and Tell: Zelda week, day four
It's time to get away from the body in our special week-long presentation of Show and Tell, and get into something fun. Being a dedicated Zelda fan isn't just about clothes and tattoos -- it's about what you do with the rest of your existence. This means toys, electronics, and even art can hold up your love as a banner for the world to see, and that's what we're looking at in today's edition. Jaunt on past the break to see what what we mean. Do you have some awesome Zelda gear? Anything from t-shirts to tattoos, to statues and standees, if it features Link, we want to help you show it off. Snap some pics and send 'em to showmeit [at] dsfanboy [dot] com. If we don't get to your stuff this week, we can always show you off in a later edition!
USB-powered whack-a-mole annihilates productivity
We've seen plenty of desk distractions over the years, but the USB-powered Whack It game definitely has the potential to be a productivity killer like no other. This relatively small device simply plugs into a powered USB port and challenges workers to smash the critters as they light up. Reportedly, the game boasts 30-second and one-minute gameplay modes and a wee LED scoreboard, too. Of course, figuring out how to slam down on this thing without drawing attention to yourself is another battle entirely, but if you're up for it, you can grab the game now for £14.99 ($31).[Via Technabob]
Takara Tomy's Rhythmbits do a little dance
Takara Tomy's Walkiebits sure caused quite a stir when they first landed a few years back, and now the firm is cranking out another variation that's sure to be a holiday favorite. The slew of new Rhythmbits arrive in a variety of vivid colors, measure in at just 1.85-inches in length, sport interchangeable shells and bust a plethora of moves when they hear music. These little bundles of fun are set to take Japan by storm later this week for ¥1,575 ($14) apiece.[Via NewLaunches]
Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT gets reviewed, videoed
If you thought an introductory video was enthralling, wait till you check this out. Waziwazi was able to get some time alone with Takara Tomy's i-SOBOT, and while a thorough review would've certainly been enough, those folks went the extra mile and videoed quite a bit of the creature acting up. Reviewers found the bot to be "hilarious and easy to operate," and while they weren't exactly keen on the infrared remote, it was said to be "awesome fun" nonetheless. Of course, we aren't asking you to take our word for it, so head on over to the read link for a fairly in-depth review complete with box shots and lots of in-action video.
Hasbro serves up toys galore, aims for tweens
Gateway and Linksys aren't the only firms using Digital Life to showcase new wares, as Hasbro is making the most of its opportunity by inviting fun-lovin' tweens over to its booth to play with a number of new holiday must-haves. Aside from the familiar Power Tour guitar and NET JET game, the company is also showing off its Littlest Pet Shop VIPs (virtual interactive pets), which will launch next month for $14.99 apiece, and a few new critters in the Furreal Friends family, one of which is pictured above. Additionally, Tiger Electronics is introducing its October-bound I-Dog Amp'd ($34.99), which will "tap its paw to the tune, bob its head to the beat, swish its ears and wag its tail to the rhythm of your favorite songs." Lastly, the I-List Music Party game sounds like the perfect way to entertain guests at your next sleepover, and should be available soon to test your knowledge of music for $19.99. Click on through for a few more pics.
Introductory video shows off i-SOBOT's features
We know, you're actively looking for ways to stay calm and patiently await the arrival of your US-bound i-SOBOT, so we're thrilled to pass along an introductory video to tide you over. The clip goes through and lists everything that comes bundled in with the bot itself, and the animated creature also shows off a few moves, phrases and modes. Granted, we hold a special place in our heart for any miniature mech designed to handle full-fledged somersaults and shamelessly rock out with an air guitar, but we're pretty sure you'll enjoy the vid, too. Go on, it's waiting after the break.
Kam Kam Mobile Alert detects GSM calls, wags tail
We've seen this type of toy before, but never in such a plush and cute form factor. The Kam Kam Mobile Alert -- that's the cat version -- and Don Don Mobile Alert detect the GSM radio on your handset from up to five feet away when a call or message comes in. Instead of blinking or spinning, Kitty or Rover will wag its tail for 15 seconds to let you know if your ringer happens to be silent. The desktop critter has a handy spot to plonk your handset in when in use, but sadly doesn't offer a charger option. The holiday season is approaching and this would likely make a cute gift, and at $30 a pop, it shouldn't break the bank.[Via ShinyShiny]
