The Hyper Imperial (Japanese: ハイパーインペリアル) is a yo-yo manufactured by Duncan and released by Bandai in Japan on March 1997 as one of 5 launch models of its first Hyper Yo-Yo line-up.
Description[]
The Hyper Imperial is the Hyper Yo-Yo rebrand of Duncan's classic Imperial yo-yo; In fact, it is completely identical to the original Duncan version of the Imperial, except that the name "Imperial" was replaced with "Hyper Imperial" on the gold stamp on one side, and a small sticker was attached to the other side which reads "BANDAI 1997 USA".
It is a plastic looping yo-yo with a fixed metal axle, starburst response, and a narrow string gap. While it is lacking in features and harder to use than other models in the Hyper Yo-Yo line, it was a perfect choice for a launch product as more advanced models would be released later.
Since this model was made in the 1990's, it featured a heavy but soft plastic material on the body of the yo-yo. While it is sturdier and less brittle than the current made-in-China Polycarbonate versions of the Imperial, it wore down much quicker with use, and it was much easier for the gap to widen on its own during play (due to the yo-yo halves sliding off the metal axle).
Model Variants[]
- Hyper Glow - rebrand of Duncan's Glow Imperial yo-yo. It glows in the dark.
- Hyper Midnight - rebrand of Duncan's Midnight Special yo-yo. Solid black plastic color.
- Hyper Neo - repackaged Duncan Neo yo-yo. Comes in solid neon colors.
Official Description[]
Hyper Imperial (1997)[]
Type A - Standard Type
A traditional design that hasn't changed for 50 years. Its shape fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to handle even for beginners. Diameter about 57mm. Weight about 55 grams.
Gallery[]
