Hasbro Hypes Up Spider-Man 3 release with Toys, Promotions

Two month before its release, toymaker Hasbro is generating excitement around Columbia Pictures’ Spider-Man 3 with a new line of toys and games.

Hasbro is supporting the movie, due out May 4, with a host of toys including a revamped Mr. Potato Head known as Spider Spud, which looks like the webslinger, a new version of the iDog that’s decked out with Spider-Man features and movie action figures. A full list of products is available at Hasbro.com/Spiderman.

To build buzz around the March 24 toy launch, fans registered on the Web site for a wake-up call from the superhero himself. Also on the site, kids can learn how to crack The Secret of the Symbiote, a code found on new product packaging. The first 100 people who solve the mystery will receive an exclusive prize.

Fans can also send questions to Spider-Man creator Stan Lee, who will post some answers on the site on March 29.

“The amazing Spider-Man continues to be a favorite icon within the world of toys and entertainment,” said Eric Nyman, vice president of marketing on Hasbro's Marvel business, in a statement. “Collectors, kids and kids-at-heart will finally be able to get their hands on the much anticipated toys linked to one of this summer's hottest movies.”

In Spider-Man 3, Peter Parker manages to find a balance between his love for M.J. and his superhero duties. But changes occur when Peter starts to neglect the people that care about him most. He soon faces the battle of his life against villains the Sandman and Venom.