One problem I've always had with the Halo franchise is the difficulty involved in translating it into an entertaining and believable LARP event. Thankfully that problem will be a thing of the past later this year, when toy manufacturer Jasman Toys releases their officially licensed Halo 3 Laser Command game. Laser Command is to Laser Tag as RC Cola is to Coke, but that all could change with this announcement. Planned weapons include the Covenant Plasma Rifle, Plasma Pistol, and Energy Sword, which is of course going to be tremendously overpowered and able to take off a child's head with two swings. Okay, probably not, but I'm hoping it at least has the ability to launch them over long distances at opposing players, mainly because there is something inexplicably beautiful about the thought of surprised children arching gracefully through the sky attached to glowing blue blades.

Really not sure how well the Energy Sword is going to factor into a projectile based game, but I'm sure Jasman has very intelligent toy designers who are paid to figure these things out. Look for the toys to hit the streets sometime in late 2007. Michael Fahey

Jasman Toys Announces Halo 3 Licensing Agreement With Microsoft and Bungie

Toy manufacturer Jasman to produce licensed Halo 3 Laser Command laser tag game targeted to fans of the popular franchise

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ — Jasman Toys, a growing toy designer and manufacturer announces a new licensing partnership with Microsoft Corporation and Bungie Studios. Under the agreement, Jasman will produce a line of Halo 3(TM) Laser Command products. Highlighting the line is a laser tag-style set that features an infrared-light laser gun and sensors. Targeted to core Halo fans, Jasman's Halo 3 Laser Command products will be available later in 2007.

"We are extremely excited to announce this licensing partnership with Microsoft," said Brian Bonnett, executive vice president of Jasman Toys. "The Halo franchise is one of the most-recognized brands in the industry; the anticipation surrounding Halo 3 and our innovative product should prove to be extremely successful for Jasman and Microsoft."

Jasman's Halo 3 Laser Command builds on the success of the most sought-after video game brand with an exciting laser tag-style game. With the upcoming release of Halo 3, this is a must-have product for any Halo fan. Weapons will include the Covenant's Plasma Rifle, Plasma Pistol and Energy Sword. These alien laser weapons emit a harmless infrared beam and sensors are worn by players to register hits. Engage in capture the flag, team battles, free-for-alls ... the possibilities for gameplay are endless!

About Jasman Toys

Jasman Toys is a growing designer and producer of high-quality, innovative toys for children of all ages. With toy categories that range from remote controlled helicopters, electronic dinosaurs and shooting toys, Jasman has established a strong presence in the boy's toys market. Jasman's product lines include Command Force(R), Flight Factory(R), Mighty Megasaur(R), Laser Command(R) and Wild West Gunslinger(R). Jasman products are available at toy, hobby, gift, mass merchant and department stores throughout the United States and abroad. For more information about Jasman Toys visit the company website at http://www.jasmantoys.com

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