Many of today’s kids are no longer satisfied with the simple action figures of yesterday, such as the G. I. Joes and Barbies their parents played with. In order to become a “hot” commodity, action figures have to do a lot more today! Preferably something interactive which allows the children to play along. In this regard, toy manufacturers have introduced products with multiple lines, such as video games with associated action figures and other accessories based on the premise of the video segment.

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One of the 2011 season’s most exciting offerings is the Skylander’s™ Spyro’s Adventure™ game, and the starter pack with the Wii® platform promises to be the hottest item in the lineup.

What are the Spyro™ Games?

Take note that you become a lot cooler parent when you know what the game is about! The Spyro™ games are the first of the Skylander™ series, and are being simultaneously developed for Xbox®, Microsoft 360®, and Play Station® platforms. It is the Wii®platform, however, which was created by Toys for Bob®, a California designer, which promises to be the big hit at this year’s Black Friday sales.

The Spyro™ game centers around Spyro™, a fire-breathing dragon, and is supported by a cast of over 30 characters which can be controlled by the “game master.” Players embark on a quest to save the world from the evil Kaos™ and engage in searches for treasure, battles with monsters, and puzzle-solving. Best of all, the pack comes with four action figures, including Spryo™, and a Portal of Power™, a pad which activates the figures as the child plays. The figures are also compatible with other player’s Portals of Power™, so children can share games and scores with their friends.

Action figures taken to a friend’s portal will cause information from their previous game to be retrieved, so children can share games from location to location. Additional action figures are available for purchase separately, so that the child can build an entire library of characters for their game.

E Rating for Everyone!

Best of all, this game is one of the few “action” and “role-playing” games entirely appropriate for children. Early designs contemplated an adult version, with an “M” rating for mature audiences, but the creators rejected this idea in favor of a kid-friendly platform which can be enjoyed by many age levels. The result is an “E” for everyone extravaganza which you can allow your children to play with confidence.

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Who created the Skylanders Spyro™ Adventure game?

Activision®, the parent company underwriting the project, has spared no expense to get talent for the game. Hans Zimmer, composer for such classics as The Lion King, wrote the score, and Alek Sokolow and Joel Cohen of Toy Story fame wrote the script for the running story of the game. This high-end talent ensures an exciting and wonderful experience for gameplayers.

How much is the Skylander™ Spyro’s Adventure™ Wii Starter Pack?

The Skylander™ Spyro’s Adventure™ Wii version will be marketed at an average retail price of $69.99. Each action figure added to the set will sell for a separate price, although those characters are not currently available. Estimated retail price will run around $19.99 if the starter pack price is any indication.

The set comes packaged in a brightly-colored box and contains the Wii component for the game, the action figures, a character poster, sticker sheet, trading cards, and batteries. The game is not designed for children under three years of age, as small parts may pose a choking hazard. However, the game is rated for children of all ages to play, and contains no blood or violent graphics. Although Spyro™ is aimed at a younger market, with its high-tech interfaces and playing options, many older children may also find themselves enjoying the game.

Shop Early or Don’t Complain!

Black Friday sales will quickly be denuded of all the Skylander™ Spyro’s Adventure™ Wii starter packs, so begin your planning early to find your set. Many online retailers already carry this pack at around the average retail price, although you may be able to find deals on sites such as Amazon or Overstock. However, back orders and high demand may also limit your options in shopping online. If you plan to shop online, be sure to guarantee delivery if possible in time for Christmas. Watch for Cyber Thursday sales online, which are generally held prior to Thanksgiving or on Thanksgiving Day itself.

You may also choose to shop in retail stores on Black Friday itself. If you plan to buy a Skylander™ Spyro’s Adventure™ game, be sure to arrive early at the toy retailer or department store. Black Friday store hours vary by location and retailer but some open as early as midnight. Obviously your chances of obtaining the game are better if you are there as early as possible so grab a coffee, get in a line!

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