Is there such a thing as a “friendly” war? “Safe” violence? Complete balderdash perhaps, but if there is any one thing that makes such things possible, it would be the little device pictured below.

Imagine: You would buy this product so that you can set it up in front of your PC so that someone else can shoot you through instant messenger. So, if you’ve gone through the trouble of setting it up just so, it’s to be expected that you don’t mind getting shot at, even if it is by small, soft, foam-type missiles.

Nevertheless, much fun can potentially be had by this small USB-based “shooter” with a webcam attached, if you get a couple of your online friends / acquaintances to join in. Shoot your friend when you see him / her nodding off during work, or aim one at their ‘noggin when they’re getting a bit too stressed. As long as the proper program is installed, the missile launcher can be aimed through MSN using your mouse, and can shoot at targets up to 15 feet away. For office time fun, nothing beats the physical, especially if the physical is represented by soft, foamy material.

Plus, don’t forget the flip side of having the “warheads” under your direct control – you may not be in control of the “launch” button, but there’s no stopping you from removing the missiles from the launcher all together, so that all that your “opponent” can do is glare at you impotently through the webcam lens. Just make sure not to let anyone into your cubicle and load in some other kind of dart that’s not as “friendly” as the foam missiles. Ready, Aim....