Activision launches special edition Skylanders to promote autism awareness

Activision is partnering with Autism Speaks on a line of Skylanders toys dedicated to public awareness of autism, the two announced via joint press release.

Four Skylanders toys will be released for Autism Speaks’ Light It Up Blue campaign: characters Splat and Trigger Happy and their vehicles, Splatter Splasher and Gold Rush, all done up in Autism Speaks’ blue-and-white color scheme. The toys are now available in the U.S. and Europe, and will come to Canada April 1.

“Since the debut of the franchise, we’ve heard from parents that Skylanders plays a special role in the lives of their kids on the autism spectrum,” said Activision’s Josh Taub, senior vice president of Skylanders product management. “The entire Skylanders team was deeply committed and proud to bring these special toys to life. If they can put a smile on a child’s face, then we know we’ve done our job right.”

As Polygon reports, Activision will be donating proceeds from the Light It Up Blue line to autism charities, though the studio did not specify how much or exactly where the money will go. In addition, the studio will match any employee donations.

“Autism affects one in every 42 boys and one in 68 children in the U.S.,” said Autism Speaks’ Peter Morton, vice president of corporate development. “We’re proud to work with Skylanders, an iconic franchise that’s known for bringing joy and magic to kids and families.”