'Fallout 76' power armor helmets sold by GameStop recalled for safety reasons

Prior to its release, trailers shown during the 2018 E3 as well as the on-stage presentation painted "Fallout 76" as an exciting game. Just like other triple-A titles, the publisher offered a collector's edition version that came with several goodies on top of a copy of the game.

These items include a glow-in-the-dark map, 24 miniature figurines, a steelbook case and a life-size T-51 Power Armor helmet with a West Tek Canvas bag for storage. However, a government agency is encouraging owners of a certain batch bought from GameStop to return the helmet.

The video game retailer is known for offering exclusive versions of certain collector's edition bundles. Customers who pre-order their copies from GameStop both online and in-store usually get a special version as well as additional in-game items.

However, this time, the extra that came with the helmet is a risk of respiratory infection. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) specified that only the "Fallout" 1:1 Power Armor Nuka Cola Helmet is being recalled.

According to a report by The Verge, the fabric insert within the above-mentioned "Fallout 76" wearable helmet had dangerous levels of mold. Those who have allergies to mold, weakened immune systems and damaged lungs are susceptible to infection.

The CPSC issued the advisory on September 19 and GameStop is now notifying customers who bought the item. Furthermore, the retailer is likewise issuing a refund for the returned product. Around 20,000 of these were manufactured, but only 32 were reportedly sold by the shop. The remaining batches are now safely on their way back to the manufacturer for proper handling.

Consumers can quickly identify the T-51 Power Helmet in question by the red paint, white tubing, and white accents near the visor. Thankfully, sources confirmed that all other versions of the full-scale collectible are not affected.

In a related news, the game's publisher was previously under fire for shipping a different product than what was advertised. Some customers who bought the "Fallout 76" Power Armor Edition received a nylon bag instead of the canvas version. The recent GameStop recall apparently does not help improve the image of the game and its negative reviews from critics.