Mass effect fans, it's been a few months since we announced our Mass Effect Light Up Omni-Blade Replica, and we're excited to share some production updates with you today.
As our very first BioWare Gear Store Passion Project, we have been hard at work making sure that this replica is perfect down to the very last detail. We could never have anticipated the kind of response we received when launching this campaign back in May, and we couldn't be more thrilled to share the progress we've made so far.
Digital Renderings
After the campaign's initial launch, we set to work on creating the 3D renderings used to make the molds. We already had the basics as this replica is based on the model that we released in 2017, but this time around, we've included the LED lights for a more authentic upgrade worthy of Commander Shepard or Pathfinder Ryder.
Making The Molds
Using our 3D renderings, we went to work making the molds. To ensure that every detail is captured in the final product, the tooling process is extremely precise and carefully etched into the steel molds. These molds are made to withstand both the heat and pressure of the injected ABS plastic so that every single replica is as accurate as the first.
We've taken some photos throughout the process so you can get a behind the scenes look at what the tooling process is like.
First Off-The-Line Prototype
We have been watching and listening for years as fans have either asked for a replica with LED lights or offered tutorials online on how to DIY it at home. Because of this, we have also been eager to finally get our hands on a light-up replica ourselves.
With authenticity being our ultimate goal, we knew that we'd likely need to make a few prototypes before landing on the perfected final product. On June 1st, we tried out our first wearable prototype complete with the LED lights, and as fellow Mass Effect fans, we started to geek out ourselves.
Final Model
After a few months of minor tweaks and adjustments, we've completed a final model that we're incredibly proud of. It wears comfortably on the arm and the triple AAA batteries make it easy to light up and go. The soft glow will display like a beautiful in-game hologram that will absolutely add some Mass Effect ambiance to any room. We’re excited to start the full production and are eager to get these Omni-Blades into your hands, displays, and on your arms.
Whether you're a cosplayer, a video game replica collector, or a major Mass Effect fan, the accuracy of this Light Up Omni-Blade Replica will definitely be a standout piece in your collection.
Estimated Ship Date
We're still on track for December 2021.
We've known for a long time that this passion project was something we wanted to do, and we are so excited to have finally been able to share some updates with you. Subscribe to the Bioware Gear Store newsletter to continue receiving periodic updates for this campaign and any future launches.