Made up of nine wooden cubes with red patterning, this "anti-puzzle" has no right answer or winning move. It encourages exploration through assembling the blocks in various ways — and the patterns are a match at all times, no matter how the cubes are placed. Launch date: 2009.

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TDmonthly Review:

What It Is: This nine-piece set of smooth hardwood blocks on a sturdy base features artistic design elements that merge perfectly no matter which way the cubes are turned. It’s referred to as an anti-puzzle, because there’s no right or wrong way to manipulate it.

What We Thought: Beautiful! It really is fascinating to start playing with the blocks in a very random fashion — only to realize that the result is not random at all. The way the red dots, curvy lines and natural wood patterns blend together is mesmerizing and a bit addictive. Part of the company’s mission is to integrate art into daily life, and I think they’ve done a superb job of it! Playing with the blocks also proved to be a relaxing, calming activity.

What Others Thought: Four reviews of Motif Cubes on FatBrainToys.com resulted in an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praised the product for stimulating the imagination and exploration, and for its appeal to all ages.

Why They’ll Want It: It’s wooden, which alone gives the product an air of quality. It’s a set of blocks, which is downright classic. And in addition to being a “toy” of sorts, it effortlessly makes the perfect decorative element for a coffee or side table in a home. — Julie L. Jones, 12-15-09