ORC MODE:

This is the main feature of this GadgetReplica. On the handle of the Sting Sword there is a tiny switch under the cross guard. You move the switch up and down to toggle between three modes.

Mode Off: No sounds, No glowing
Mode On: No glowing, Sound effects on, Clang clash cling!
Mode ORC: Sword begins to glow with a neat humming noise,
the sound effects are also on in this mode so you can battle the orcs!

No these images are not photo edited, it is that bright.

Now its not just the fact that it has EL technology in it and glows extremely bright that makes it so cool. Its that it looks like metal one second, then flip of a switch and zonk! Its glowing!

When you flip the switch a whoowhoowhoo humming noise starts and then the glow fades in. When you flip the switch off it does just the opposite. The way they made the sound and glowing fade in and out really adds a nice touch, it just wouldn't be the same if it just cut on and off real quick.

For your viewing pleasure I took video so you can see the awesome Orc Mode and hear the sound effects.

 Video of Sting Sword Fx in light
Download AVI video (11.7mb) Hi-Res

 Video of Sting Sword Fx in light
I would suggest saving this to your hard drive as our MPG converter is not that great and it doesn't play well in browser.
Download MPG video (4.26mb) Lo-Res

 Video of Sting Sword Fx in the Dark
Download AVI video (4.01mb) Hi-Res

Now the only problem I had with the Sting Sword FX is that after bashing some household objects to hear the great sound effects the sword blade makes plastic creaking sounds when I swing it. Almost like its a little bit loose, maayyybe from the bashing of household objects. Well it is a collectible, its not really designed to hit things with, though it is built very sturdy.

I would suggest if you want to keep it as a collectible don't hit things with it, if you want to hear the sound effects just lightly tap it on your hand or your friends head ( I am not liable for any broken heads, nor am I suggesting that you bonk people on the head).

Conclusion:

Overall this is the best replica sword I have ever seen. It looks like a real sword, is weighted like a real sword and even handles like one. The glowing effect you have to see in person to understand just how ingenious it is. You will announce " Sweet! " when you flip into Orc Mode! (lets hope no orcs come around for real) I highly recommend this gadget and have no qualms with its quality or performance.

PROS

• Transition to Orc Mode & Glowing effect is amazing!

• Sound effects are realistic

• Built sturdy with metal and polycarbonate parts

• Switch is fairly hidden

• It looks like a read Sword, Does not appear toyish

• Included Display stand looks great and holds sword well

CONS

• After hitting things your sword might creak and squeak a little when you swing it, I believe this is because of the loosening of the blade. Solution: Dont hit things!

SCORES:

Design Quality:   5
Style:                  5
Performance:      5

Price:                  5

I did not deduct any scores for the squeaking blade, as the instructions specifically state not to strike hard objects. I just did because I am a computer nerdreviewer and I must void warranties and test structural integrity ;]