Thursday, July 31, 2008

Remote-Controlled Helicopter Toys Recalled by Innovage

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Innovage LLC announced a voluntary recall of the "Sky Scrambler" and "The Sharper Image" Wireless Indoor Helicopters due to fire and burn hazards.

The "Sky Scrambler" and "The Sharper Image" toy helicopters have yellow, red or blue decals. BH26047 is printed on the Sky Scrambler’s tail. “The Sharper Image” is printed on the tail of “The Sharper Image” helicopters. Recalled items were sold at mass merchandisers, department stores, drug stores, and other retail stores nationwide, and on the Web from June 2007 through May 2008 for about $20.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helicopters and contact Innovage for a full refund. For additional information, contact Innovage toll free at (866) 672-2630 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, visit the firm’s Web sites at www.innovage.net and www.copterrecall.org or email the firm at returns@copterrecall.org.


Tuesday, July 29, 2008

The Great Webkinz Scandal

Okay, it’s not really great great, and it’s hardly a scandal, but in today’s reactionary times, there’s nothing like an incendiary headline. (Brad’s twins were fertilized in vitro. I had to lie down and put a cool cloth on my head after seeing that at the supermarket check out.)

So here’s the deal. If you’re finding that Webkinz are under glass or behind the counter at your favorite toy store lately, it’s because people are stealing the codes. Yes, one of our friends who runs a small toy store actually said he caught a woman nipping off the hangtags with a nail clipper. Of course, if that seems just a little bit too too—oh what’s the word? CRIMINAL, they’re copying down the codes from the hangtags and taking them home and plugging them into the computer.

Well, of course, when that Webkinz is finally sold and taken home to a legitimate and loving family where it will be cherished for a good few hours, the code doesn’t work. In fact, it shows that it’s already been registered, prompting the irate parent to return to the store and demand the money back. Ganz won’t take the product back because the code has been activated. (Indeed, Ganz hasn’t returned our calls for comment on this.) So, who takes it on their little plush chin? The store owners who are stuck with the goods.

Kind of reminds me of my friends in the mortuary business who get stuck, a lot more often than you might imagine, with unclaimed “cremains.” (That’s what’s left over after cremation.) What do you do with all that “inert material?” (You probably don't want to know, but let's just say the forgotten plush toy at the bottom of the toy chest has all the luck.) After all a Webkinz without it’s code is just another plush toy.

I’ve talked to many people about this over the past couple of weeks, and it seems like this is a new kind of development that’s endemic when the economy takes a downturn. Shoplifting goes up, for example.

But, people, this is stealing! There is no justification for it on any level, and it’s not a “victimless crime.” And what a horrible lesson to teach kids. So don’t be surprised to have to ask for Webkinz, and other web-enabled toys in stores over the next few months. It’s a sad commentary, and one wonders who could actually enjoy a toy that they’ve virtually stolen?

Then again, having worked in retail, there isn’t a lot in this vein that surprises me. It’s just too bad.

Robot Chicken Star Wars Special: Episode II


Cartoon Network's Adult Swim and the Robot Chicken gang have announced that a second Robot Chicken Star Wars Special is in the works. Following on the success of the Emmy nominated show's first Star Wars special, number two will once again feature an entire episode of Robot Chicken dedicated to spoofing Star Wars.

The Hollywood Reporter is, um, reporting that several Star Wars movie actors, including Carrie Fisher and Billy Dee Williams, have signed on to voice their roles as Princess Leia and Lando Calrissian (respectively). The extended episode will debut on November 16th during Robot Chicken's fourth season.

Monday, July 28, 2008

New Video Games Due This Week

Nintendo Wii
Ford Racing Off Road
Freddi Fish: The Case of The Missing Kelp Seeds
King of Clubs Mini-Golf
MLB Power Pros 2008
Summer Athletics: The Ultimate Challenge

PC
Beijing 2008: The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games
Everlight: Power to the Elves
Ford Racing Off Road

PS2
Ford Racing Off Road
Jeep Thrills
MLB Power Pros 2008
Summer Athletics: The Ultimate Challenge
Women's Volleyball Championship

PS3
Soulcalibur IV

PSP
Ford Racing Off Road

Xbox360
Soulcalibur IV
Spectral Force 3
Summer Athletics: The Ultimate Challenge
Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2

Friday, July 25, 2008

Summer Blockbuster Season - X-Files: I Want To Believe

Believe it or not but the Summer big budget blockbuster season is nearing the end. We've been posting trailers for these big budget films since the Spring and will continue our look at the summer's explosion-laden films with our next trailer installment. Today we bring you X-Files: I Want To Believe. In theaters today.

Enjoy!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

You Are Going To Beijing!


Don't worry if your Olympic dreams were dashed by the Committee's refusal to add you to the team based solely on your assurances that you can win. Sega has your ticket to Olympics glory with the game Beijing 2008 - The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games.

You will compete in over 30 Official Events in such sports as Track and Field, Aquatics, Gymnastics, Cycling, Judo, Table Tennis and Canoe-Kayak. Plus, you really will represent your country through several online features that allow you to compete with other Olympics gamers around the world. Top scores in online play areas will be posted on leaderboards for the world to see. As the exclusive official video game, Beijing 2008 provides an insanely authentic look and recreates the atmosphere of the Games through ultra-realistic recreations of the Beijing stadiums.

Beijing 2008 - The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games is available now for Xbox 360, PlayStation3, and PC. Look for a full review soon on theToyGuy.com.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

It’s MY Binky Recalls Personalized Pacifiers

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with It’s My Binky, announced a voluntary recall of the It’s My Binky’s Personalized Pacifiers due to a potential choking hazard.

The recalled pacifiers have "Japlo" imprinted on the front of the pacifier shield at the bottom, center. The pacifiers were sold in blue, white and pink with various words or designs printed on the button of the pacifier. These pacifiers were sold at Nordstrom and baby boutique retail stores nationwide and online at www.itsmybinky.com from February 2006 through June 2008 for between $5 and $6.

Consumers should immediately take these pacifiers away from children and return them to the store where purchased or contact the firm if purchased online to receive a free replacement pacifier. For additional information, contact It’s My Binky toll-free at (888) 689-9444 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday PT or visit the firm’s website at www.itsmybinky.com or e-mail Danielle Riiber at Danielle@itsmybinky.com

The following image is of three examples of the recalled pacifiers. There are many more than these three included in the recall. Please visit the CPSC site for a list of additional pacifiers.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

McDonald’s to Feature Spy Gear Happy Meals


Spy kids everywhere will want to scope out the latest McDonald's Happy Meals, which will come with one of six new Wild Planet Spy Gear gadgets. The gadgets will include the Secret Wrist Beam, Spy Guard Motion Alarm, Spy Disc Defender, Invisible Message Pen, Rear View Spy Scope and Mobile Message Bot.

Young spies looking for these gadgets while also trying to eat healthy will be happy to uncover the Apple Dippers (fresh, peeled apple slices) served with low-fat caramel dipping sauce, which can be substituted for fries. Other healthy options include 100 percent pure apple juice or low-fat regular or chocolate milk rather than soda at no extra charge.

The Spy Gear Happy Meals (or Mighty Kids Meals) will be available at participating McDonald's between July 25 and August 14.

Monday, July 21, 2008

New Video Games Due This Week

Nintendo DS
Chess Crusade
Final Fantasy IV
Izuna 2: The Unemployed Ninja Returns
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
New International Track & Field
Suzuki Super-Bikes II: Riding Challenge

Nintendo Wii
Chess Crusade
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor
Order Up!
SNK Arcade Classics: Volume 1

PC
Fate: Undiscovered Realms
Neverwinter Nights 2 Adventure Pack: Mysteries of Westgate
Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People -- Episode 1: Homestar Ruiner
Ubersoldier 2

PS2
Dream Day Wedding: Married in Manhattan
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor

PS3
1942: Joint Strike
Siren: Blood Curse

Xbox360
1942: Joint Strike
Jade Empire
Shotest Shogi

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Lip Gloss and Jewelry Sets Sold Exclusively at Wal-Mart Recalled by F.A.F. Inc.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with F.A.F. Inc., of Greenville, R.I., announced a voluntary recall of the “Faded Glory” Lip Gloss, Locket, and Bracelet Sets due to a risk of lead exposure. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

The recalled three-piece sets contain a rectangle-shaped lip gloss container, a heart-shaped locket necklace, and a charm bracelet. The following models are included in the recall:

Frog Set 6709-4250
Monkey Set 6709-4251
Cat Set 6709-4252

“Faded Glory”, the model number, and UPC are printed on the product’s hangtag.

These items were sold exclusively at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from May 2008 through June 2008 for about $6.

Consumers should immediately take the bracelet away from children and return the set to any Wal-Mart store for a full refund. For additional information, contact F.A.F. Inc. at (800) 949-3311 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.faf.com

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Tune Up Your Lightsabers and Get Ready for Action

We are just a little more than a month away from the premier of Star Wars: The Clone Wars in theaters (August 15). This first-ever animated feature film from Lucasfilm Animation takes place between the second and third prequel movies and will show us more of the battles between the clone army, led by the Jedi, and the Separatists who are under the control of the dark side. We will see familiar heroes, including Obi Wan and Anakin, favorite villains, such as Count Dooku and General Grievous, all fighting along side of new characters never before seen in the Star Wars films.

And just when you think it's safe to go back to Coruscant, the second wave of Clone Wars will engulf you as Cartoon Network begins airing a whole new set of animated adventures this fall. The TV series will pick up where the animated film leaves off and you can expect more epic battles, awesome action,and plenty of Jedi mind tricks!

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Bayside Furnishings Recalls Youth Bed Toy Chests

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Bayside Furnishings (a division of Whalen™), announced a voluntary recall of the LaJolla Boat Bed and Pirates of the Caribbean Twin Trundle Beds. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. The lid supports on the toy chests fail to prevent the lid from closing too quickly, posing an entrapment and strangulation hazard to young children.

This recall involves two styles of Bayside youth beds: the LaJolla Boat Bed and the Pirates of the Caribbean Twin Trundle Bed. The preassembled toy chests are designed in the shape of a ship or boat’s “bow” and attached to the beds as a footboard. The LaJolla Boat Bed toy chest has a hardwood top and white wood base with a blue stripe. The Pirates Boat Bed toy chest has a hardwood top, wheel shape and brown wood base with decorative carvings. These items were sold at Costco and furniture retail stores nationwide and Costco.com from January 2006 through May 2008 for between $700 and $1,400.

Consumers should immediately stop children from using the recalled toy chests and contact the firm for instructions on receiving a free repair kit with replacement lid supports. For additional information, contact Bayside at (877) 494-2536 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.baysidefurnishings.com to register online for the free repair kit.

Monday, July 07, 2008

New Video Games Due This Week


MAC

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

Nintendo DS
Pony Luv
Carnival Games
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

Nintendo Wii
Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo's Dungeon
Wonderworld Amusement Park

PC
Devil May Cry 4
Nancy Drew: The Phantom of Venice

PS3
Beijing 2008: The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution

Xbox 360
Beijing 2008: The Official Video Game of the Olympic Games
Golf: Tee It Up
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution
Schizoid
Unreal Tournament III

Friday, July 04, 2008

Happy Independence Day!


Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend!

Thursday, July 03, 2008

Summer Fun on Live With Regis & Kelly Part 2


Chris Byrne returned to Live With Regis & Kelly today for part two of our look at some of the coolest toys for summer.

Here is the list of toys from the show today. In order of appearance:

Spike the ULTRA DINOSAUR
Fisher-Price
Ages:3-10 years
$140.00

Barbie Golf
Mattel
Ages: 4 – 9
$49.99

PLAYSKOOL KID MOTION Sports: EASY HIT Bat & Ball
PlaySkool
Ages: 3 and up
$9.99

Boom Bat
Cadaco
Ages: $14.99
6 and up

Super-Blast Fire Hose
Matchbox
Ages: 3 and up
$14.99

NERF N-Strike Recon CS-6
Hasbro
Ages: 6 and up
$19.99

The Magic School Bus - Soaring into Flight
Young Scientists Club
Ages: 5 and up
$19.99

Doko
Mammoth Brand
Ages: 6-13
$7.99

Go Diego Go Dinosaur Rescue Mountain
Fisher-Price
Ages: 3 and up
$44.99

Don't Wake Hulk
Hasbro
Ages: 5 and up
$19.99

Camp Rock Fashion Dolls
PlayAlong
Ages: 6 and up
$12.99 - $24.99

Hannah Montana Air Jammerz Guitar Pick - Best of Both Worlds
Zizzle
Ages: 6 and up
$12.99

Disney Camp Rock Hip Pop Dance Jammer
Zizzle
Ages: 6 and up
$14.99

Hot Wheels Speed Racer Sky Jump Track Set
Mattel
Ages: 5 and up
$49.99

Vtech KidiJamz Studio
Vtech
Ages: 4 years and up
$64.99

Click here for the list of toys from Monday's show.

For more information, including pictures, please visit us at our website, www.theToyGuy.com

Wednesday, July 02, 2008

Environmentally Friendly Ideas

Going green is more than just a buzz word or marketing gimmick. It's a practice that we should all try integrating into our lives and homes.

Did you know that a Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) lasts from 8-10 times longer, uses about 75% less energy, and produces 90% less heat while delivering more light per Watt than an incandescent light bulb? They also save you money. One 20 Watt CFL (replaces a 75 Watt incandescent bulb) will save you $66 dollars over the life of the bulb (based on $.12 KWH). If you replace just one 100 Watt incandescent bulb with a 25 Watt CFL, you will save a $74 dollars over the life of the bulb - that's a full tank of gas and then some!

While saving you money, CFL's also save the planet. Replacing one incandescent light bulb with an energy saving CFL bulb will reduce carbon monoxide emission to the atmosphere.

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Chris Byrne Answers Your Questions on the Live Blog

After an all-out Super Soaker battle with Kelly Ripa and Sam Champion on Live With Regis & Kelly, Chris Byrne dried off and joined the Live blog to answer viewer's questions about all things toy related. You can read this question and answer session now at the Live Blog.