UNDER EMBARGO ‘TIL 00:01 GMT, FRIDAY, 2nd SEPTEMBER, 2016: Firebox.com, Friday 2nd September 2016: Following the phenomenal success of Sphero BB-8 last year, the team at Sphero has now created the most exciting Star Wars related sequel since The Force Awakens; a special collector’s edition battle-worn BB-8 that comes with the brand new Force Band, which lets you control the little droid with a few simple hand gestures. This Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band collector’s bundle is something every avid Star Wars fan needs, and is available to pre-order at Firebox.com.

Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band Bundle
Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band Bundle

BB-8 was seen rolling around the sands of Jakku getting into all sorts of scrapes and entanglements during The Force Awakens, so it’s only fitting that Sphero has forged this collector’s edition battle-worn bundle. Now you can take your droid-handling experience to the next level – this rugged incarnation of everyone’s favourite bot is exclusively available with the Star Wars Force Band in a special edition bundle.

Just strap it on and you can instantly control your droid with a series of sweeping, Jedi-esque hand gestures. It connects to your Sphero BB-8 via Bluetooth and uses an internal accelerometer to accurately map your hand movements. Thrust your hand forward to send BB-8 into driving mode, turn your palm down and BB-8 will look away from you, turn your hand up and it’ll look back at you. Words can only go so far in explaining just how satisfying this is.

When you’re not masterfully controlling your droid, the Force Band can harness the force in a number of other exciting ways. In the Force Awareness mode, the band will periodically alert you to disturbances in the force; by following light cues and vibrations you’ll be able to uncover digital relics nearby and collect them in a smartphone app. It’s a bit like Pokémon Go – only you’re a Jedi master.

Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band Bundle
Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band Bundle

The Combat Training mode lets you use the band to wield virtual weapons like Blasters and Lightsabers – emitting an array of sound effects and vibrations as you swing and shoot them.

Just like the original Sphero BB-8; you can watch your droid explore autonomously or guide it yourself with your smartphone or tablet, create and view holographic recordings and even watch ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ with BB-8 and see him respond to certain scenes.

This loyal droid and the unhinged power of the force are the greatest galactic partnership since R2D2 and C-3PO. It’s time to truly harness the power of the force with the greatest Star Wars plaything of all time.

The Sphero Battle-Worn BB-8 and Force Band Special Edition Bundle is available to pre-order at Firebox.com for £179.99.

For those who wish to experience the force with their original Sphero BB-8 droid, theStar Wars Force Band is also available to pre-order separately for £69.99.

First stock is due on September 30th 2016.