Got word of this from the fine folks at Tek Recon - they're launching a little early, and ON KICKSTARTER. I'll let them explain in the press release below.
"TEK RECON: BRINGING VIDEO GAMES TO LIFE! One of the most anticipated product launches of 2013 hits KICKSTARTER on May 9th
TORONTO, May 8, 2013 – TEK RECON, one of the most anticipated new
product launches of 2013 will be available for the first time through KICKSTARTER.COM on May 9th @ 8am eastern standard time.
The goal of the KICKSTARTER campaign is designed to further enhance the
development of the TEK RECON blaster and free app, and to get the
product into the hands of early adopters and key influencers helping to
create the first real life online video game. Through the course of 31
days fans will be able to fund the project through purchasing product,
exclusive rewards, and bid on great prizes that include appearances in
the television commercial and an all expense paid trip to present at E3;
all contributing towards our KICKSTARTER funding goal of raising
$50,000.
“Bringing TEK RECON to market through this KICKSTARTER project is the
most ambitious and exciting launch in our company history,” stated Brad
Pedersen President and CEO of TEK RECON Inc. “Two years ago we set out
on a mission to bring video games, online connectivity and social
interactive play together through innovation and great product design.
The outcome, TEK RECON has come to life and created a phenomenal play
experience that has exceeded our expectations.”
Gamers, adventure seekers and fans of technology, we need your help to
create a revolutionary new way to connect and play video games with your
friends IN REAL LIFE! Get off the couch and into the game with the
newest and most realistic way to blast away on the field or anywhere.
TEK RECON Blasters feature a first of its kind design with real trigger
action and specially designed reusable “NRG Rounds” that blast up to 75
feet.
To optimize the battle and team experience TEK RECON developed a free
“Real-Life Online Gaming” app to enhance blaster battles. Simply connect
your mobile device to the blaster to bring video game styled play to
life through mobile and GPS technology. The free TEK RECON App will be
available for iOS and Android devices, enhancing real battle experience
through an interactive heads up display, live chat, vision modes, and
more.
The time is now to be one of the first to experience Real Life Online
Gaming and change the way you play. For more information on this product
and KICKSTARTER campaign please visit TekRecon.com."
A look at the OS of the Tek Recon app
The Tek Recon Hammer Head. Approx. $19.99, 30 round capacity in a mag in the handle.
The Tek Recon Havok blaster, pump-action. Approx. $34.99 as of the listing I saw at Toy Fair. 90 round capacity last I saw.
So there you have it. On May 9th Tech4Kids (makers of Tek Recon) is willing to let fans endorse the product, assist in the development, and in return you can get the blaster early, or any number of other bonuses, including possibly a trip to E3? Interesting, indeed!
Tek Recon wants to make sure they get the blasters done properly, so here they are opening up to the wonderful world of crowdfunding. Their kickstarter page launches May 9th, so if you've been yelling "TAKE MY MONEY" since news on Tek Recon first came out, here's your chance.
Between the interactivity of the mobile app, the new ammo type, and some of the neatest touches when it comes to aesthetics and user experience, I'm intrigued to try it out and see how it all works. I've been itching to get a more in-depth look at this since New York Toy Fair, and it looks close, so, so close.
I'll post the link once the kickstarter goes live and definitely keep an eye on Tek Recon's Facebook Page.
Onward, to May 9th! And good luck to Tek Recon in making this work!