|
 |
| Yomega Bandai Hyper Yo-Yo - Fireball 1997 |
| Exhibit #4544 |
 |
|
| Type | Production |
| Shape | Modified |
| Axle | Transaxle - Plastic |
| Color | Red/clear |
| Packaging | Bubble Carded |
| Construction | Multi-piece plastic |
| Response | Starburst |
| Diameter | 59mm |
| Width | 35mm |
| Gap | Fixed |
| Weight | 52gm |
| Condition | Mint |
| Date | 1997 |
| To | 1998 |
| Owner | Rick Brough |
| Compare |  |
|
|
The Bandai Hyper Yo-Yo Yomega Fireball from 1997
A Japanese-only release of the Yomega Fireball, in all Japanese packaging and the yo-yo made in China. Released at the start of Bandai's first Hyper Yo-Yo series in 1997, the Fireball was the most popular yo-yo for looping in Japan during the yo-yo boom of 1997 to about 2001. Since then, there have been three more Hyper Yo-Yo series released in Japan: 2003, 2010, and 2024. According to Bandai, the legendary "Hyper Yo-Yo" series has sold more than 30 million units worldwide.
About the Fireball
In the late 1990s, the world of yo-yos in Japan experienced a vibrant resurgence, and at the heart of this revival was the Bandai Hyper Yo-Yo Yomega Fireball.
The Yomega Fireball was not just any yo-yo; it was a very affordable, technological marvel. Featuring a polycarbonate body and plastic transaxle sleeve made of Delrin, this yo-yo allowed for significantly longer spin times compared to traditional fixed-axle yo-yos. This innovation let players perform more complex tricks with greater ease, making it a favorite among advanced users.
The Hyper Yo-Yo Phenomenon
Bandai's Hyper Yo-Yo line, launched in 1997, was a response to the global yo-yo boom. By licensing the Yomega Fireball, Bandai brought this high-performance yo-yo to a wider audience, particularly in Japan, where it became a cultural sensation. The Hyper Yo-Yo series included various models, but the Fireball stood out for its balance of performance and accessibility. Among other Hyper Yo-Yo brands that Bandai licensed, besides Yomega, were Duncan, YoYoFactory, Jack Russell, and Henrys yo-yos. Bandai also introduced their own first generation of Hyper Yo-Yo models that were also very popular. See them all in this museum!
Cultural Impact
The Yomega Fireball wasn't just a toy; it was a gateway to a community. Yo-yo clubs, competitions, and promotional events flourished, with the Fireball often at the center. Its popularity helped foster a new generation of yo-yo players from Japan, many of whom went on to become world champions in their own right.
Recipe
Diameter: 59mm
Width: 35mm
Weight: 52gm
Axle: Delrin, transaxle
Material, body: Polycarbonate
Original retail price: 2200Â¥ (about $18 US in June 1997) | |
| |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
