July 2010 - Every other month, Hasbro will answer a few questions about their GI Joe products. Below are the questions and answers for this month.
1) With the success of large vehicles like the BMF and the AT-AT in the Star Wars line, is there any talk of large playset/vehicles like the Defiant, Flagg, etc...?
Answer: Funny you should ask as we were just talking about this the other day. The team is always dreaming of the ultimate vehicle that we could bring out, we just haven't been able to pick the right one; timing is important too. Right now there are no plans to introduce a large scale vehicle.
2) Does Hasbro have any set standards and practices that you would prefer to see, or not see, in the numerous G.I. Joe fan sites, given that the brand name and recognition is presented to the consuming public, adults and children alike, by these sites?
Answer: We're ecstatic that the G.I. Joe brand has fans who dedicate the time, energy and creativity it takes to create, manage or participate in one of the many fan sites that exist. We believe that speaks to how well the brand resonates with kids, families and the collecting community. We're also proud and honored that something we work on daily has become an idea around which a group of people can come together and discuss their likes and dislikes as a community. By having these third party settings we feel it enables more robust dialogue. Hasbro operates the official G.I. Joe website via www.gijoe.com and we believe the average web-surfer can distinguish between third-party, fan generated content, message boards, etc. and the "official" website. Of course, as stewards of the brand we always hope everyone has a positive experience - no matter where or how they engage in it. Ultimately it is up to a parent or guardian of child to determine what is most appropriate for them (or themselves) and we recommend they remain involved in all aspects of their child's development including play and time spent on the internet.
