|
|
 |
 |
Archived Reviews
Send us your toys ... and you may be eligible to win a TDmonthly
Magazine Top Toy Award!
Well-reviewed toys and products recommended by specialty retailers
are more likely to be nominated for a TDmonthly
Award and appear in our annual Specialty Toys Report.
For submission information, please see the bottom of the page.
|
Search Toy Review:
Recent Reviews:
 Name: FlyZone Micro Ultrix
Company: HOBBICO
Age: 12 and up
Price: Not Specified
Category: Remote Controlled
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about FlyZone Micro UltrixBack to top
 Name: Slugga™ the Bat and Ball Carrier
Company: THE ORIGINAL BULLPEN CO (OBC)
Age: 3 and up
Price: $45.00
Category: Sporting Goods & Accessories
What Is It?
This unique plush cartoon bat-and-ball carrier makes toting baseball equipment a cinch for kids of all ages. The bat slips into Slugga’s face and body, while the ball rounds out his cap-topped head. Although the carrier can be worn like a backpack, Slugga can also hang from the shoulders in the front, so kids can walk with their baseball buddy down the street like real pals. A special padded pillow prevents the base of the bat from slamming against the wearer’s body.
What We Thought
No one in the office had ever seen a product like Slugga for toting baseball equipment. One staffer thought her little nephews would go crazy for it. Though we didn’t have any balls or bats handy, we found Slugga made a good Sno-Fling porter, too.
Why They’ll Want It
Parents of little sluggers who are apt to drop balls into oncoming traffic while running to games will appreciate Slugga. The strap keeps the ball and bat snugly against the wearer, ensuring the safety of both the child and the equipment. — Alison Marek, 12/13/07
Learn more about Slugga™ the Bat and Ball CarrierBack to top
 Name: What's a Dame to Do?
Company: games for dames™ by sisters 2 inc.
Age: 18 and up
Price: $29.00
Category: Adult Games
What Is It?
A circular boardgame for gal friends, “What’s a Dame to Do?” presents a player with a dilemma and the other players must guess how she’ll resolve it. The one who most often guesses the “correct” answers wins. So what’s a dilemma? Oh, being called “Ma’m” for the first time or being hit on by a guy 20 years older than you. And possible solutions? Helpful strategies, such as speaking in a foreign accent, downing the Chardonnay or using a hose.
What We Thought
After two rounds, we initially skeptical gals were convulsed with laughter, mascara’d tears and snot running down our faces. Not attractive, but that made it even funnier. What busted us up? Potty humor, of course. When faced with the horror of overflowing the toilet at a friend’s housewarming party, our very well-mannered Southern colleague was presented with such helpful solutions as “Speak with a foreign accent!” “Make a game of it!” and “Start a trend!” We all (including she) agreed that the second choice was her best bet, and we’ve haven’t been the same since.
Why They’ll Want It
”What’s a Dame to Do?” is an outrageously funny game that reminds us all of those uncomfortable moments that require quick thinking and creative resolutions. It’s a great game for friends, enemies, co-workers, sisters, moms and great-grandmas. Any woman with a bit of “experience” can relate. Got problems, sorrows, embarrassments? “Make a game of it!” — That’s what they did at Sisters 2 Inc. and we three dames think it’s gonna be all right. — Alison Marek, 11/20/07
Learn more about What's a Dame to Do?Back to top
 Name: Playful Chef
Company: PLAYFUL LIFE
Age: 3 and up
Price: $39.99
Category: Creative Activities
What Is It?
The cooking set includes kid-sized versions of real chef utensils, including a mixing bowl, baking pan, whisk, measuring cups, measuring spoons and more — all packaged in a little backpack. A denim apron, a three-minute timer and bright orange, plastic safety scissors are also included.
What We Thought
The set is very well thought out, emphasizing parent-child bonding, safety, fun, healthy habits and cooking before children even learn to read! Color-coded measuring spoons and cups allow pre-readers to join the fun, while recipe cards detail preparation instructions on one side and ten steps to healthy eating on the other. The cards even include quotes that parents can repeat to their kids, such as “You want to take good care of your special tools, so we can use them again”!
Why They’ll Want It
Kids will love feeling like real chefs with these miniaturized, but fully functional utensils that fit perfectly in their little hands. The tool belt apron itself is absolutely amazing, with its adorable design and adjustable straps (which will allow kids to continue using the apron as they grow). After kids are done cooking and cleaning, they can neatly place the utensils and apron back into the backpack and take it with them anywhere. — Sivhour Sim, 11-1-07
Learn more about Playful ChefBack to top
 Name: Bump 'n Chuck RC Bumper Cars
Company: KID GALAXY INC.
Age: 6 and up
Price: $34.99
Category: Remote Controlled
What Is It?
The Bump ‘n’ Chuck (which got a giggle from 8-year-old Cole – “Do they throw up?”) is a radio-controlled bumper car game with two bumper cars, two ejectable bumper car drives (they pop out when one of the cars is hit in a certain way; there are two “eject” buttons on the sides), two controllers and the need for lots and lots of batteries.
What We Thought
“They go pretty fast,” commented Cole, who raced his orange bumper car up and down the sidewalk. “And they’re easy to control,” chimed in Gabby, doing spins and figure-eights with her blue one. But when bumper time came... nothing. “They’re hard to hit right,” pointed out Cole. “Really hard. I can’t get the guy to pop out. Make sure you write about that.” And he was right. The kids tried slamming into each other, into walls, into a dog (a big dog). Nothing. So they hit the buttons on the cars themselves, and the plastic drivers jettisoned... and made “the best screamy noises ever.”
Why They’ll Want It
Yup, with a sound chip, the drivers fly out, screaming all the way. The kids forwent the bumper car aspect and began playing their own imaginary games with the bumper cars and drivers. Space ship fights, movie action scenes and just plain making the drivers fly up and scream. “They’re pretty fun,” acknowledged Cole, “but not for playing bumper cars.” That pretty much sums them up. — Mark Zaslove, 10/23/07
Learn more about Bump 'n Chuck RC Bumper CarsBack to top
 Name: Kingka
Company: KINGKA LLC
Age: 3 and up
Price: $29.99
Category: General Games
What Is It?
This matching and memory game introduces kids (and their folks) to basic Chinese characters and pronunciations. Kingka comes with color boards lain out with squares that introduce a single Chinese character; corresponding photos of the actual objects are printed on the flip side. The instructions give recommendations for three basic games ranging in level from elementary to advanced. In addition, the more advanced games have variations that expose kids to the characters in new and exciting ways. Kingka also includes a CD that helps players learn the subtle differences in Chinese pronunciation. Made in USA, this brain teaser game challenges people in all age groups.
What We Thought
The various Kingka games are an easy way to boost Chinese character recognition. The glossy cardboard playing pieces are nicely designed and hefty enough to withstand repeated play. Printing photos on the backs of the character cards lets kids easily and quickly associate the two corresponding visuals, thereby increasing their chances of learning the Chinese word for a common object or number.
Why They’ll Want It
Kingka would be a great supplement at Chinese language schools; even adults will enjoy this fun and nonthreatening introduction to a whole new way of reading! It’s also perfect for Chinese-American parents who want to expose their children to Chinese characters. However, the game has broad enough appeal to reach a much wider audience, since parents are always searching for ways to stimulate their kids’ developing brains and language skills. - Alison Marek, 10/18/07
Learn more about KingkaBack to top
 Name: Pop Up Pen Pal Cards - Holiday
Company: PLAY ODYSSEY INC.
Age: 6 and up
Price: $12.99
Category: Arts & Crafts
What Is It?
This set of 12 easy-assemble pop-up self mailers is meant to inspire beginning writers. The glossy printed card stock comes prefolded. It’s also ruled with manuscript printing guidelines on the front cover and inside, underneath the greeting, so little holiday-card creators can easily write addresses and messages neatly and correctly. The kit comes with glue-in supports for the pop-ups and an assortment of potential pop-ups with a holiday theme, such as the three kings, a penguin, Santa’s elf, etc.
What We Thought
The cards are easy to assemble; a glue stick is required as a separate purchase. Making pop-up greetings would be a fun project for a young family and a great way to get the kids to practice their penmanship. There don’t seem to be any identifiably female characters among the pop-ups, but boys will find plenty of characters to love.
Why They’ll Want It
Kids are fascinated by the magic of pop-up books and they’ll have fun creating their own pop-up pages. The pop-up support is easy for little hands to fold and even clearly marks where the paste should go. Kids will especially love that there are no envelopes involved; just fold over the card, seal it with the included snowflake stickers, address it, stamp it and sent it to grandma! — Alison Marek, 10-5-07
Learn more about Pop Up Pen Pal Cards - HolidayBack to top
 Name: Groovy Girls Holiday Sylvie Starr
Company: MANHATTAN TOY
Age: 3 and up
Price: $17.00
Category: Dolls
What Is It?
This velour plush rag doll wears tights of a silver, sparkling fabric and gold satin shoes that complement the gold touches in her pageant-winner look. She’s not easily poseable, but has whimsical hair and a purse that dangles with the ladylike swing of her legs. Her dress is removable, but the other clothing and accessories, which are not, might make another outfit a difficult fit. Her earrings are sewn in so she doesn’t have to worry about losing them. She has a star’s smile.
What We Thought
I don’t consider myself a “doll person” but the more I looked at her, the more I liked her. And my mother — also not a “doll person” — commented, “She is really CUTE!” This is a great doll for a collection or to serve as a girl’s daily companion. Groovy Girls have accessories, too, which add to the fun. How about a stylish car or pet horse for starters?
Why They’ll Want It
Remember Holly Hobby? Well, Sylvie’s the new “it” girl in the ragdoll world, and every girl identifies with glam. They can bring her into their imaginary worlds and create stories for any number of daily experiences. Sylvie Starr would make a great gift. — Dena Welter, 10/2/07
Learn more about Groovy Girls Holiday Sylvie StarrBack to top
 Name: Farkle
Company: PATCH PRODUCTS INC.
Age: 8 and up
Price: $8.99
Category: General Games
What Is It?
In this simple dice game, two or more players try to be the first to gain 10,000 points, and may risk “losing it all” on each turn as they strategically decide whether or not to roll for more points.
What We Thought
There’s not much to this game — a score pad, a shaker cup and six dice — but it can be a lot of fun! The hardest, and potentially most frustrating, point is at the very beginning, when each player must secure 500 points by their roll(s) in one turn to get on the scoreboard. I had to wait a few rounds to be a part of the scoring game, but the nice thing is that things can change quickly! A roll of three pairs, for example, boosts a player’s status by 1,500 points.
Why They’ll Want It
The name alone sparks curiosity, so kudos to the manufacturer for keeping this classic alive and well. It’s simple, which may be frustrating to those who anticipate more involved games, but the fact that it’s easy to learn makes it a great pick-me-up-and-play game at a party or casual social gathering. Want to add a little more participant involvement? Try getting everyone to yell “Farkle!” when a player loses points. — Julie Jones, 10/2/07
Learn more about FarkleBack to top
 Name: Kids Love Spanish: Volume 1 – Basic Words
Company: BROCK SISTERS PRODUCTIONS LLC
Age: 2-8
Price: Not Specified
Category: Educational
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Kids Love Spanish: Volume 1 – Basic WordsBack to top
 Name: Dynasties
Company: JOLLY ROGER GAMES
Age: 10 and up
Price: Not Specified
Category: General Games
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about DynastiesBack to top
 Name: Backpacks
Company: FRECKLES & MAYA GIRLS ACCESSORIES USA
Age: All Ages
Price: Not Specified
Category: Gifts
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about BackpacksBack to top
 Name: NASCAR Baby
Company: TEAM BABY ENTERTAINMENT LP
Age: 1 and up
Price: $19.95
Category: Videos & DVDs
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about NASCAR BabyBack to top
 Name: Making Healthy Choices
Company: STARBOUND BOOKS
Age: 5-7
Price: $11.95
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Making Healthy ChoicesBack to top
 Name: Dolly Goes to the Supermarket
Company: DHM
Age: 3 and up
Price: $19.95
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Dolly Goes to the SupermarketBack to top
 Name: Small Sister
Company: CLARION BOOKS
Age: 3-5
Price: $16.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Small SisterBack to top
 Name: Your Very Own Robot, Choose Your Own Adventure
Company: CHOOSECO LLC.
Age: 8 and up
Price: $5.99
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Your Very Own Robot, Choose Your Own AdventureBack to top
 Name: Where, Oh Where, Is Santa Claus?
Company: HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT
Age: 3-7
Price: $16.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Where, Oh Where, Is Santa Claus?Back to top
 Name: Wake Up Engines
Company: CLARION BOOKS
Age: 3 and up
Price: $16.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Wake Up EnginesBack to top
 Name: City Lullaby
Company: CLARION BOOKS
Age: 3-5
Price: $16.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about City LullabyBack to top
 Name: Jazz Baby
Company: HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT
Age: 3-7
Price: $16.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Jazz BabyBack to top
 Name: Hello Rousseau
Company: BIRDCAGE PRESS
Age: 7 and up
Price: $9.95
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Hello RousseauBack to top
 Name: Auto Mobiles – Galactic Pals
Company: UP AND AWAY INC
Age: All Ages
Price: $12.99
Category: Infant & Toddler
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Auto Mobiles – Galactic PalsBack to top
 Name: Giant Open Gift Box of Beads
Company: HAMA - MALTE HAANING PLASTIC AS
Age: 5 and up
Price: $34.95
Category: Arts & Crafts
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Giant Open Gift Box of BeadsBack to top
 Name: Ball of Whacks
Company: U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC.
Age: All Ages
Price: $29.95
Category: Puzzles & Skill
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Ball of WhacksBack to top
 Name: i-gami – Color Harmonies
Company: PLASTIC PLAY INC.
Age: 10 and up
Price: $29.99
Category: Construction
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about i-gami – Color HarmoniesBack to top
 Name: Touch It Bubbles / Burbujas Tocables
Company: YOMAX INC.
Age: 4 and up
Price: $1.59
Category: General Toys
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Touch It Bubbles / Burbujas TocablesBack to top
 Name: Play Scene: Happy Camper
Company: MUDPUPPY PRESS
Age: 3 and up
Price: $11.00
Category: Books
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Play Scene: Happy CamperBack to top
 Name: BibleMan PowerSource Series: Tuning Out the Unholy Hero
Company: TOMMY NELSON
Age: 6 and up
Price: $14.99
Category: Videos & DVDs
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about BibleMan PowerSource Series: Tuning Out the Unholy HeroBack to top
 Name: Cartooning: Shortcuts, Formulas, & Cheap Tricks
Company: HAMMINATION
Age: 8 and up
Price: $19.95
Category: Videos & DVDs
Please click here to read TDmonthly´s Toy Expert review of this product.
Learn more about Cartooning: Shortcuts, Formulas, & Cheap TricksBack to top
Viewing products 421—450 out of 1007 products. <<Prev 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 Next >>
Search Toy Review:
Toys can be submitted without a fee to be considered for editorial
review. However, manufacturers who wish to guarantee that their toys
will be evaluated in the Review section should send payment of $150 per
toy* along with the toy itself to:
Product Review Dept.
ToyDirectory.com, Inc.
12340 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 226.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Many of the toys considered for review are donated to children's services organizations, such as Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Also, to recover the cost of reviewing, starting August/2012 we may occasionally resell products that are sent to us.
* Please make checks payable to ToyDirectory.com, Inc. Payment does not guarantee a positive review. Advertising with
ToyDirectory and TDmonthly Magazine does not guarantee a positive
review. Quality, play value and educational value are considered when
reviewing toys and games.
|
|
Advertise on TDmonthly
|
