January 2009 Notable Toys — Robotics

Kids can build a multi-terrain robotic vehicle, complete with six S-shaped legs designed to conquer tough terrains, such as sand, rocks, and grass. They'll test its limits by towing toy cars, climbing a stack of books, or negotiating a wall. Includes instructions for five guided projects that touch upon the science of motion and energy to explain why RoboXplorer reacts differently to various terrains.

Measuring just six centimeters long, each battery operated HEXBUG Crab is loaded with robotic intelligence. The six-legged creature feels its way around while sensing objects in its path and avoiding them. Users interact with the bug by tripping the sound sensor with a hand clap or loud noise, which sends it crawling off in a new direction. Launch date: September 29, 2008.

Excalibur Electronics presents Phantom Force, a powerful chess set with one incredible trick–it moves pieces all on its own. Utilizing the latest in micro motor and magnet technology, Phantom Force brings chess computing into the 21st century. Phantom Force will play Knights, Pawns and other pieces, sliding them into position as if an invisible hand were controlling it. "Phantom Force Chess offers a wide variety of features, including sound effects, voice vocabulary in three languages, hint button, coaching mode, teaching mode for new players, time control, built-in dual chess clock display, in-game memory, adjustable LCD contrast, [and] auto-shut off, and [it] is designed with a storage compartment to hold your chessmen," Meg Sahdala, senior product manager at Excalibur Electronics Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2008.
— As of 1.06.2011 this product was listed as a bestseller in the Games & Puzzle category on Toysrus.com. Pros: Helps hone logic skills; can be played alone.

From Tiger Electronics, this remote-controlled, 29" dancing robot moves and two wheels and can tote an iPod or MP3 player on its back. Equipped with flashing LED lights, stereo speakers and hands shaped like turntables, the Automated Music Personality robot uses Dynamic Balancing Technology in order to move in a way that seems to defy the laws of gravity. Launch date: November 2008.

The HEXBUG Inchworm is the first Micro Robotic Creature in the HEXBUG line to feature a full-function IR remote control. Users drive the Inchworm forward, back, left and right. A and B control bands allow users to control two Inchworms at once or multiple Inchworms on the same band. The product features a unique crawling and pirouette motion around its center pod foot. "This unique HEXBUG Micro Robotic impulse item is offered in a five-pack impulse counter display with five-color variety assortment," Joel Carter, VP of marketing for Innovation First, told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 15, 2008.
— The Inchworm has been a top seller at Pufferbellies in Staunton, Va., for at least a year, according to co-owner Susan Blanton in fall 2009.
— The Hexbug Inchworm is a popular item at the Toy Shop of Concord in Concord, Mass., Owner David Hesel told TDmonthly in late 2009.