It is as in the photo. It was purchased for a child close to 4 years old, based on the ability for them to load it by themselves. I believe compared to the others in the same series (we have 3 other Nerf), this is the only one that the child can load by themselves. Although we have had it for about a month, it seems quite durable. It keeps the child occupied for a while, but be prepared to have quite a few darts come at your face :)