Have any of you seen these new "Lightseekers: Awakening" toys?
http://www.toysrus.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=123544476&sr=1&origkw=lightseekers&ff=Taxonomy&fg=Category&fd=&fv=2254197The toys are 7" scale and have some form of internal electronics that allow you use the figure and different accessories/weapons (which also have internal electronics) in a video game. There is also some form of augmented reality trading card element to further enhance game play. These toys are rather complex in that they not only work with the game, but also light up, make noises and have other electronically activated features.
Now imagine if Hasbro could do a similar yet simplified offering with "G.I.Joe". Standard ME Joe figures could have a chip inside the torso that some form of "Skylanders"-like portal could read and put your character in the video game. Each accessory could also have a chip that identifies it and adds it to your in-game character. Swapping gear between characters could enhance gameplay. There would be no need for the figures or their gear to light up or have electronically activated features (except for maybe in larger deluxe gear like jetpacks, etc.) to keep them in the traditional Joe design.
I imagine that some simple chips added to the torso, backpack and weapon(s) could be done cheaply. Hasbro tried something similar with the "Star Wars" line during the "Episode I" release with chips containing sound effects and dialogue encased in figure stands. Almost 20 years later, the chips will be even more advanced, cheaper and small enough to be imbedded into the figures and gear. The biggest financial output would most likely be the initial game which would include the portal device.
Chip equipped add-ons like accessory/mission packs and vehicles would then add even more game play choices.
Could you see something like this reigniting interest in the brand with today's youth?
