K'NEX SIGNS EXCLUSIVE "MECHWARRIOR" TOY LICENSE FROM FASA CORPORATION
K'NEX To Debut New Line of MechWarrior Construction Toys Based on the Popular Computer Game Series At American International Toy Fair
Hatfield, PA, December 18, 2000 - K'NEX Industries, one of the world's leading construction toy manufacturers, has signed a multi-year licensing agreement for the immensely popular MechWarrior license from FASA Corporation. Expanding construction play to a whole new level of fun and imagination, K'NEX will introduce three building sets based on the sizzling MechWarrior computer gaming titles at the 2001 American International Toy Fair in New York City.
During Toy Fair 2001, to be held Sunday, February 11 through Thursday, February 15, the new MechWarrior construction toy series will be on view in the K'NEX Showroom at 1107 Broadway, Suite 1315, and in K'NEX's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center Toy Fair booth (#1555).
Since its inception over 15 years ago, the BattleTech/MechWarrior property has been developed into various entertainment mediums including board games, novels, an animated television series, virtual reality entertainment and PC video games. Over eight million copies of the MechWarrior computer games have been sold. K'NEX is currently the only toy manufacturer with the license to develop construction toys based on the MechWarrior line of games.
The MechWarrior property, already extremely popular with young males, is building even more momentum with the much-anticipated release of the MechWarrior 4 PC game from Microsoft. Also, the MechCommander 2 PC game is slated for release in Spring 2001. Additional promotional plans for 2001 will be released shortly.
"We are delighted by the opportunity to present the heroic universe of BattleTech/MechWarrior to a new audience. Combining the award-winning construction toy system of K'NEX with the highly successful MechWarrior property is a sure-fire winner," said Mort Weisman, CEO of FASA Corporation. "We are very excited about seeing our BattleMechs come to life in a whole new way."
The MechWarrior property enjoys an engaging storyline, which takes place during war in the 31st century. On the battlefield the ultimate weapon is the BattleMech, which is essentially the tank of the future. These giant two-legged robots are heavily armed and can stand over 100 feet tall. Driving these armored war machines are highly skilled pilots called MechWarriors. These authentic K'NEX BattleMech models will engage kids with creative construction play, and will then let them become "MechWarrior" pilots in command of their creation.
For fall 2001, K'NEX will introduce three "MechWarrior" themed sets which all feature armor panels for an authentic 'Mech' look.
Shadow Cat - (Suggested Retail Price, $19.99) - With this K'NEX set, kids can build a replica of the "Shadow Cat" BattleMech. This 'Mech represents the "Jade Falcon" Clan, and features realistic styling, armor panels, and adjustable weapon arms. On one of these arms is a foam missile launcher, which can be used to battle the included "Elementals" (armored soldiers) for an engaging play pattern. A child can take the model into battle with an action mechanism that moves its legs and twists its torso. This set also includes instructions to build the "Sunder", a BattleMech from the opposing "Inner Sphere" force. Ages 9 and up.
Cauldron-Born - (Suggested Retail Price, $19.99) - This set builds a replica of the "Cauldron-Born" BattleMech from the "Ghost Bear" Clan. This 'Mech also features realistic styling, armor panels, and kid-controlled battle arms. Also included is a shoulder mounted foam missile launcher to fend off the included "Elemental" soldiers. A special walking mechanism moves this BattleMech's legs so a child can maneuver onto the battlefield. This set also includes instructions to build the "Owens," a BattleMech from the opposing "Inner Sphere" force. Ages 9 and up.
Mad Cat - (Suggested Retail Price, $29.99) - This high-end set lets kids build a replica of the "Mad Cat", one of the most popular and lethal 'Mechs in the MechWarrior PC games. This K'NEX model represents the "Clan Wolf" faction, and comes complete with poseable pulse laser arms, a twisting torso, and moving legs for a battle ready stance. This 'Mech has twice the firepower of the lower-end sets with two foam missile launchers to level the included "Elemental" soldiers. Numerous armor panels are included to create the authentic "Mad Cat" look fans have come to love. This set also includes instructions to build the "Avatar," a BattleMech from the opposing "Inner Sphere" force. Ages 9 and up.
As with all K'NEX building sets, the new MechWarrior line includes color-coded step-by-step instructions. The MechWarrior line of construction toys will be available nationally in fall 2001. For more information, consumers can visit www.knex.com or call 1-800-KID-KNEX.
The American International TOY FAIR® is the largest annual toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere. Nearly 2,000 manufacturers, distributors, importers and sales agents from 25 countries showcase their toy and entertainment products. Products cover everything from classic toys to interactive entertainment: trains and trucks, books and kits, computer software and video games, action figures and dolls, games and puzzles, bicycles, tricycles and ride-ons, infant and preschool toys, cars, puppets and plush, audio and video cassettes, playground and sporting equipment, Halloween, Christmas, stationery, party supplies, and much more! The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is located in New York City on 11th Avenue between West 34th and West 39th Streets.
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Founded in 1992, K'NEX Industries was formally established to make and sell what has become one of the world's leading integrated construction systems for children. Winner of over 150 international awards and recognitions, K'NEX seeks to build young minds with its exciting product line and critically acclaimed K'NEX Education program.
Founded by Jordan Weisman and L. Ross Babcock III, FASA Corporation has been creating successful new game worlds since 1980. The current line includes BattleTech®, Shadowrun®, Crimson Skies™, VOR: The Maelstrom™. and Crucible: Conquest of the Final Realm™. FASA has successfully licensed its games for novels, computer games (the MechWarrior® series), virtual reality games, miniatures, toys, a television series, a card game and more.
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Lord Trogus, on 14 March 2012 - 11:34 AM, said:
