Fourteen years after first appearing in Halo: Combat Evolved on the original Xbox, the Needler still remains a popular choice of weaponry among the game’s fans. And as dangerous as it is to Master Chiefs and Covenant forces, NECA Toy’s new animated Needler replica is an even greater threat to your budget.
The not-exactly-kid-friendly crystal shards sticking out of the top of the Needler — arguably its most recognisable feature — actually retract on this replica every time you pull the trigger, while a reload button causes them to all quickly extend again. However, those crystals don’t power this blaster, you’ll instead need a set of four C-sized batteries to keep its lights, sound effects, and animations running.
NECA Toys worked with Microsoft and 343 Studios (formerly Bungie) to design its new replica using the same 3D models that were created for the countless iterations of the Halo video game. That means that this is as screen-accurate a Needler replica as you can buy right now.
As a toy, $US300 is a bit steep for a Needler to call your own, and it doesn’t ship to Australia. But as a collectible, or as cosplay accessory, NECA Toy’s limited edition replica should satisfy die-hard Halo fans — if you can get your hands on it. [NECA Toys via Damn Geeky]