January 2010 Notable Toys — Battery Operated

This picture-filled wooden puzzle of the United States includes 40 pieces created to help develop map skills. When each puzzle piece is placed in the correct location, the puzzle speaks the names of the states and capitals. It measures 0.8” x 15.8” x 11.9”. It requires three AAA batteries (not included).
— Ten percent of 40 retailers named Melissa & Doug as a best-selling brand when it comes to educational products. LB Toys in Media, Pa., sells about 30 per month of the U.S. wooden map puzzle, Owner Jamie Burdette told TDmonthly in fall 2009.
— Michael O'Dell of Toys from the Attic in Rehoboth Beach, Del., told TDmonthly in a Summer 2011 survey that they don't sell many electronic or battery operated toys, but of those they do have, sound puzzles from Melissa & Doug sell best.

The NKOK TMNT line puts kids in the middle of the action with a collection of R/C vehicles and Race Sets. With the ATV Rider sets, Leo and Raph can settle their sibling rivalries with a fast-paced race through the sewers. Each ATV Rider comes with one ATV and either Raphael or Leonardo. Running on different frequencies, the ATV Riders are designed to make for an exciting race each time. Launch date: October 2009.

Raphael is the most assured martial artist of the group and this R/C vehicle follows in the same tradition. It is a full function R/C vehicle that is able to stop, turn and spin on a dime. It also features removable weapons and cool spinning action. "It is part of the only line of R/C vehicles featuring the ever-popular Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," Andrew Eugenio, intern at Productivity PR Inc., told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 2009.

Featuring a two-channel remote control and a tail rudder for directional movement, the FlyTech Hoverpod racer can jet across most smooth surfaces and be controlled to maneuver around obstacles. Made from durable, lightweight materials, the racer is designed to be crash resistant. A simple 10-minute charge will last for up to five minutes of play. It requires 4 AA batteries (not included). Launch date: June 2009.

The WowWee Roborover™ robot is a talking, tread-based, roving explorer with an inquisitive personality that grows to become more confident as users navigate and play with him. The Roborover robot is operated via remote control and features poseable arms, head and waist. This shy little explorer features spoken content, various driving-based games, infrared sensors for obstacle avoidance, and tilt sensors allowing him to perceive when he has fallen over. It takes four C batteries, and the remote takes three AA batteries (not included). Launch date: August 2009.