Hasbro launches Star Wars toys

Kids will soon be feeling the force at stores everywhere, as Hasbro’s newest line of Star Wars toys rockets into retail. Making their debut this month are bean plush versions of the characters Wampa, Figrin D’An and Yoda (US$7.99 each), which are part of the Star Wars Buddies collection, and figures of Tauntaun and Han Solo replete in Hoth Gear (US$13.99 each), which are part of the Star Wars Creatures Assortment .

NHL checks into

home video

The Official 1998 NHL Stanley Cup Championship Video skates into stores on July 17. The title, which CBS/Fox Video is distributing, tracks the highs and the lows of the 1998 National Hockey League play-offs, from the grind of the first round to the glory of the final Stanley Cup-winning game. This time, NHL Productions has introduced some technical innovations, such as specially placed remote cameras and rinkside microphones, that it promises will bring fans closer to the action on the ice. The suggested retail price for The Official 1998 NHL Stanley Cup Championship Video is US$19.98.

NBA slam-dunks

with video

Hoops fans are sure to get their fill this month, as NBA Entertainment releases The Official 1998 NBA Finals Video. The video will allow consumers to relive the highlights of the 1997-98 regular season, in addition to providing a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at the NBA champions, the Chicago Bulls, and their road to success. Ad support for the videos covers all media. Additionally, the NBA has placed clips from the videos on its Web site (www.NBA.com). The 50-minute video will be available in stores on July 10 for US$19.98.