July 2008 New Toys — Construction

HYDRODYNAMIC DELUXE Building Set by BRIDGE STREET TOYS

This set comes with a large tray and footing in which kids build the structure. The tray measures approximately 10 inches by 16 inches by 3 inches deep. The tray and the footing are both white. The footing has a grid of 12 holes for columns (4 x 3 configuration). Build the structure using the footing in the tray for the base, place the submersible pump in the tray, add water until it completely covers the inlet on the pump, and then enjoy reconfiguring the pipes, opening and closing valves and watching the action. When one takes the set down, all the parts pack into the tray, the plastic lid snaps on and it can be safely stored away for future use.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys 9/11/2012 (Price: $89.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

OgoBILD BITs by OGOSPORT, LLC

Meet the OgoBILD BITs. Part of the OgoBILD construction line, the BITs are flexible, secure and safe to play with. With imagination, the BITs come alive and are seeking adventure. Launch date: 2012. 9/10/2012 (Price: $7.99)

nanoblock Statue of Liberty by OHIO ART CO.

You don’t have to be an engineer to create with nanoblock. With these micro-sized building blocks, 3D structures are constructed like never before. Watch as the beautiful Lady Liberty takes shape with over 700 assorted size and colored pieces. Includes detailed color instructions. Launch date: September 2012.
— As of 10/01/2012 this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 1 review on Amazon.com.
— Joe Berardoni Jr., owner of Puns Toys in Bryn Mawr, Pa., told TDmonthly in a Fall 2012 survey that nanoblocks are one of their top selling hobby items.
— Rebecca Goblish, owner of Picayune Toys in Dunwoody, Ga., told TDmonthly in a May 2013 survey that for older kids, nanoblocks were her best-selling construction toy.
Awards: 2015 TDmonthly Magazine Top Toy Award 9/7/2012 (Price: $40.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Leonardo DaVinci Kits - Catapult by ELENCO

Leonardo da Vinci improved upon the already-established catapult design when he introduced his own vision the the age-old military launching device. This design uses a double leaf spring to produce a great deal of energy in order to propel stone projectiles or flammable materials over large distances. A hand crank on the side of the catapult was used to load the spring. The scientific genius of Leonardo da Vinci is brought to life through these 10 articulated models. The inventions that inspired these snap-together replicas are taken from the pages of Da Vinci’s priceless and awe-inspiring notebooks. All models are made of plastic and require no special tools. Manuals are very educational and teach how these inventions have evolved into what they are today.
— Priscilla Moore, owner of Mr. Fub’s Party/Toys and More in Yellow Springs, Oh., told TDmonthly in a late Summer 2012 survey that this catapult is one of their best selling Science toys. 8/29/2012 (Price: $19.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LEGO Friends Heartlake Flying Club 3063 by LEGO

Head for the sunny skies of Heartlake City with Stephanie's seaplane. Soar the sunny Heartlake skies with Stephanie. Find sky-high adventure at the Heartlake Flying Club where she takes flying lessons. Now that she has some experience, Stephanie can even fly all by herself. With a map to find her way around and a life preserver for safety, Stephanie can practice piloting her very own seaplane and earn her diploma. Includes Stephanie mini-doll figure. Features a waterside hut and pier.  Accessories include a map, diploma, pink life preserver brick, bird, crab and telescope.
— John Taylor, owner of O.P. Taylor in Brevard, N.C., told TDmonthly in a Fall 2012 survey that LEGO toys are consistent best sellers in his store. 8/29/2012 (Price: $35.97)

LEGO Ninjago Lloyd ZX 9574 by LEGO

Lloyd ZX is the legendary green ninja, destined to win the great battle between good and evil and bring peace once again to the land of Ninjago. But before he can fulfil his destiny, his fellow ninjas must help him master the art of Spinjitzu and defeat the evil Serpentine snake tribes. Use the 4 battle cards included to influence the outcome. Set includes minifigure, gold spinner, green crown, LEGO bricks, golden weapon, 2 regular weapons, character card and 4 battle cards. 8/27/2012 (Price: $19.99)

Tower Bridge by RAVENSBURGER

Tower Bridge is a 216-pc 3D Puzzle that replicates the historic London landmark with exacting details.  Featuring the company’s Premium Puzzle Softclick Technology™ of precision-cut plastic flat and hinged pieces that snap together without glue, Tower Bridge is the newest addition to the 3D Puzzle assortment of impressive structures known worldwide.  The newest offering joins the line’s Big Ben, Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building and New England Lighthouse. 8/23/2012 (Price: $59.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Roy Toy Classic Building Sets by ROY TOY

Roy Toy's Classic Building sets are all wooden pieces, dyed with natural vegetable based food dyes, and made 100% in the USA. This line features a log cabin and a fort set, both have 140 plus pieces and each set comes complete with building directions. Launch date: January 1992. 8/8/2012 (Price: $29.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Roy Toy 250pc. Deluxe Building set by ROY TOY

Roy Toy's 250 pc. set is all wooden, dyed with all natural, vegetable based dyes, and made 100% in the USA. This set comes complete with building directions for a log cabin, a tree house, and a farm set, but the possibilities are endless. Launch date: January 1992. 8/8/2012 (Price: $49.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Colored Cubes 36 by KID O PRODUCTS

This new set of our popular 1-3/8th cubes feature updated colors in 36 pieces, adding a bit of brightness to standard block play. 8/3/2012 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Geomag Pink - 66 pc by REEVES INTL. INC.

The patented, original Swiss-made Magnetic Construction System. Helps kids advance in creative thinking and logical reasoning abilities. Fun, 36 vibrant magnetic rods in a brilliant bubble gum pink color, and 30 non-magnetic metal spheres. Complete instructions to assist with simple & complex structures. A starting set for discovery with Geomag. Made in Switzerland. 8/3/2012 (Price: $32.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Makedo Find & Make Space Pod - 57 pc by TOYSMITH

Designed for creation, disassemble to reuse again & again. Kids look for recycled materials, then assemble them with the included 30 clips, 2 lock-hinges, 1 safe saws and flower and Space Pod inspired sticker sheets. Includes step by step instructions and a poster with idea inspirations. Can be used again and again. 8/3/2012 (Price: $18.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Moulin Roty Large Tool Box Set by MAGICFOREST LTD

Kids can create useable, meaningful wood projects with these real tools. Sized to be fully functional, yet easily used by children. An inter-generational gift that builds skills and relationships. 14 impeccable, real tools, including a hand saw, hammer, gimlet, sanding block, plane, pliers, mallet, chisel, Phillips screwdriver, flat screwdriver, c-clamp, ruler, square ruler, and spirit level, stored in a beautifully printed wooden tool box. Please note that this is a working tool kit with sharp-edged pieces. It should only be used under direct adult supervision. 8/3/2012 (Price: $74.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LEGO Minifigure Series 7 by LEGO

Each of the 16 all-new minifigures come in a sealed "mystery" bag, so kids never know which minifigure they might get. And each minifigure has its own special accessories, display plate and collector's leaflet. Series 7 includes: Aztec Warrior, Evil Knight, Galaxy Patrol, Jungle Boy, Viking Woman, Ocean King, Grandma Visitor, Rocker Girl, Tennis Ace, Computer Programmer, Bride, Swimming Champion, Daredevil, Bunny Suit Guy, Hippie and Bagpiper.
— In a Summer 2012 survey, Deran Muckjian, owner of Catch a Falling Star in Lexington, Mass., told TDmonthly that "Lego continually sells really well, across the board, for boy gifts," and that the LEGO minifigures were an overall best seller.
— In a late Summer 2012 survey, two out of 12 retailers said that LEGO minifigures were one of their bestselling novelty items.
— In a July 2013 survey, two out of 12 retailers told TDmonthly that  LEGO minifigs are their best-selling toy. 8/3/2012 (Price: $2.99)

Makedo Find & Make Robot - 33 pc by TOYSMITH

With this kit, kids make a robot from salvaged stuff and items in the recycle bin. Includes all the tools, reusable fittings, and stickers to build a completely unique robot. Prompts innovation & invention, fine motor skills, visual spatial abilities. A total of 33 reusable parts, including 15 Pins & 15 Re-clips, 2 Lock-hinges, 1 Safe saw, 3 Robot-inspired sticker sheets, Guided instructions, and an Idea poster. 8/3/2012 (Price: $12.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LEGO Minecraft 21102 by LEGO

Build a mini model of the game that’s sweeping the Internet with a LEGO® microbuild version of Minecraft. Selected by LEGO CUUSOO members, this build features a cool design with lots of 1x1 LEGO tiles and 2 buildable Micromob characters: Steve and Creeper.
— As of 7/30/2012 this product had 4.1 out of 5 stars from 14 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Nice collector's item. Cons: Pricey. 7/30/2012 (Price: $34.99)

My First Ball Track - Basic Pack by HABA USA/HABERMAASS CORP.

How constructive! Build up the fun with the My First Ball Track - Basic Pack set from HABA! Perfect for all master constructors ages 18 months and older, the ball track is guaranteed fun! The colorful connecting blocks come with pivots that easily lock into place on the bottom of the ball track pieces. This makes constructing easy and ensures the track stays in place even if your little one bumps against it. Plus.... ding! Build the curving track toward the finishing block with the bell so the ball with ring it whenever it reaches the end of the track! Contains 1 ramp, 6 curves, 8 colored connecting blocks, 1 finishing block with bell, 1 regular ball, and 1 special effect ball that glitters, rings, or rattles while rolling! Try it out with the My First Ball Track set and My First Ball Track Ball Ramp. As your little one grows older, this set can easily be complemented with any of the HABA ball track sets.
— Dean Smith, owner of JaZams in Princeton, N.J., told TDmonthly in a January 2015 survey that HABA Marble Runs and components are one of their store's best-selling STEM toys. They sell around 10 each month. 7/20/2012 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Discovery Set Round and Round by HABA USA/HABERMAASS CORP.

Things really start to roll for little ones: the barrels, balls and rotating disks allow kids, in a playful way, to delve into the fascinating world of optics and discover impressive motion effects. Contents: 3 basic wheel chassis, 1 set of wheels, 2 effect balls, 1 spinning top, 6 color disks to stick on spinning top, 8 barrels, 1 ringing roll. Material: beech wood, polycarbonate. 7/20/2012 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Color Fun Pegging Game by HABA USA/HABERMAASS CORP.

This brightly colored pegging game comes with 36 interchangeable pieces for endless playing configurations. Made from beech wood and colored with water-based, non-toxic stains. 7/20/2012 (Price: $35.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Magformers Carnival Set - 46 pc by MAGFORMERS LLC

Make carnival rides with Magformers. 144 magnets included in 46 magformers. Twelve triangles and twenty-four squares, two hexagons and eight additional triangles.
— As of 08/06/2012 this product had 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Well made, durable; encourages creativity.
Awards: 2013 TDmonthly Seal of Approval 7/20/2012 (Price: $79.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Super Magformers - 30 pc by MAGFORMERS LLC

108 magnets included in 30 Magformers. Twelve triangles and eighteen squares. Two different shapes - triangles, and squares. Blue, orange, red, purple, green and blue colored pieces. Includes 30 Magformers and detailed instruction guide.
— Diana Nelson, owner of Kazoo Toys in Denver, Colo., told TDmonthly in a Fall 2012 survey that Magformers are one of her top-2 overall best selling toys.
— Gary Green, owner of Toy Box of Asheville Inc in Asheville, N.C., told TDmonthly in a May 2014 survey that Magformers were the best-selling construction toy in the store. 7/20/2012 (Price: $104.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

OGOBILD BITS Set 1 by OGOSPORT, LLC

The BILD line offers a stimulating opportunity for constructive play and imaginative exploration. Leap always knew it was destined for fun. Inspired by a rocket, this Bit redesigned itself to fly. With a well placed propeller and a powerful spring, Leap is always ready to leap into action. Crank is the go-to BIT. Whether he's scooping sand, clutching parts, or fixing the other Bits, Crank is the one for the job.Set Contains: 1 OGOBILD BITS Leap character and 1 OGOBILD BITS Crank character.
Awards: Summer 2012 Tillywig Award Winner 7/18/2012 (Price: $16.00)

Ninjago Zane ZX 9554 by LEGO

Zane ZX is all powered up and ready to take on the evil Serpentine enemies. With Spinjitzu ice shields and incredible weapons, it's a bad day to battle the Spinjitzu masters. Customize spinners like never before with the Zane ZX minifigure, shields, blades, LEGO lift brick, golden weapon and 2 regular weapons. Use the 4 battle cards included in the set to influence the outcome. 7/16/2012 (Price: $4.99)

Ninjago Epic Dragon Battle 9450 by LEGO

Defeat the Great Devourer in the epic battle between good versus evil.  The Great Devourer has been awakened and threatens to devour the world of Ninjago. Can the legendary green ninja, riding the awesome 4-headed Ultra Dragon, overpower this evil adversary? Can Lord Garmadon harness the power of the 4 golden weapons of Spinjitzu to destroy the mighty snake and what about Sensei Wu? Can Jay defeat the evil snake Generals Acidicus, Skalidor and snake soldier Chokun to release his master from the impenetrable snake prison? Includes 7 minifigures: Lloyd ZX, Jay ZX, Sensei Wu, Lord Garmadon, Acidicus, Skalidor and Chokun. Set features 4-headed Ultra Dragon, The Great Devourer, snake prison, Hypnobrai fang blade with blue anti-venom capsule, 4 golden weapons and 7 regular weapons.
— As of 07/16/2012 this product had 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5 reviews on Amazon.com. Pros: Very large set with many pieces; dragon's jaw can open and close. Cons: One user said that when they tried to play with the product after it was built, the blocks fell apart. 7/16/2012 (Price: $119.99)

Plus-Plus by GEARED FOR IMAGINATION

Plus-Plus is a brand new breed of construction toy. Made in Denmark (the land of LEGO!), it is the ultimate in open-ended, imagination-driven simplicity. Each piece is the same shape - two plus symbols joined together - allowing for endless possibility. Available in Basic or Neon colors, and in 100pc, 300pc, 600pc and 1200pc. MSRP from 9.99 to 59.99. Launch date: July 2012.
— In a September 2014 survey, Kai Rady, owner of Shenanigans Inc in Charlottesville, Va., told TDmonthly that Plus Plus is one of the store's best-selling novelty items. 7/10/2012 (Price: $9.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]