E3 2012 Impressions: PowerA

This year PowerA seemed to be focused on their Android game pad, MOGA. In previous years, the company had a few Wii or Nintendo 3DS accessories to be shown off. Instead of any of that, I was told that they’re working hard on Wii U products, but that none were ready to show. On the bright side of the booth visit, however, was my short trip to see new coming soon Skylander Giants merchandise.

*A note that a few of these names may not be the official/final names.

Skylanders Backpack*
Version Tried: N/A
Platforms: All Skylanders versions
Release Date: TBA

For those looking to tote around their collection of Skylanders figures is PowerA’s new backpack. The front has Skylanders artwork slathered on it, but the inside is what’s interesting. Upon opening there are elastic bands with spaces between them. These will be used to secure the figures inside the pack. It’s a simple organizational system, but it works quite well for what it is. I didn’t catch how many figures the backpack holds, but I know the emphasis was on quite a few. Otherwise, this backpack is fairly standard with zippers, compartments, and mesh you may normally find in such a bag.

Skylanders Giants Battle Arena*
Version Tried: N/A
Platforms: All Skylanders versions
Release Date: TBA

Perhaps one of the coolest Skylanders accessories I saw at PowerA this year was the Battle Arena. This is a platform that your portal will perch on top. It features a castle motif throughout as well as plastic jewels on the side and a lighted base for figures to sit on. It has room for plenty of figures and is quite lightweight. The box that it comes in amusingly enough was deemed the, “pizza box” because of the size, though it seems it could fit under a bed or between shelves for storage.

Skylanders Giants Coliseum Display*
Version Tried: N/A
Platforms: All Skylanders versions
Release Date: TBA

As a collector, it’s important to show off what you’ve collected. PowerA is hoping to provide those with Skylander figures a place for them to call home. Although the box above shows divided areas for each figure, the final display I’m told will not have that. Instead, it will be one large plastic hold that will allow you to place figures in it however you desire. The plastic itself seemed to be light enough and are stackable. It seemed large enough to hold regular figures, though I’m not sure it will have the proper space to house LightCore or Giants Skylanders.