Sega's Virtual Fireworks Machine Takes the Fun Out of Explosions

Sega Toys is coming out with the Uchiage Hanabi, essentially a limited-function projector that shows fake fireworks on your ceilings or walls, complete with sound.

You'll be able to create your own "shows" with 55 different explosions which you can then take anywhere, as the device is designed to be portable—it takes AAA batteries for power and looks fairly diminutive. It'll retail for around $160 when it's released, but that release isn't until August 1st. Releasing a fireworks machine, virtual or no, four weeks after both July 4th and Canada Day is like investing in pumpkins in mid-winter. [Sega via OhGizmo]