<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"><channel><title>toyreview</title><description>toyreview</description><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/home</link><item><title>Make your own Unicorn Poo</title><description><![CDATA[We must admit this has never been on our bucket list but this great new kit from Toy Universe may very well be just the thing to get your child into Stem Learning.Suitable for ages 8 plus the Make Your Own Magical Unicorn Poo is actually a little bit of Chemistry mixed with a whole lot of fun.The 16 page instruction book gives your child all the help they will need to measure and mix the ingredients and to produce gorgeous gooey slime. You can make rainbow slime, stunning silver slime and even<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4d898b0e5e874efd89a74b380e2fcaed%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_622%2Ch_622/777202_4d898b0e5e874efd89a74b380e2fcaed%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/12/08/Make-your-own-Unicorn-Poo</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/12/08/Make-your-own-Unicorn-Poo</guid><pubDate>Fri, 08 Dec 2017 04:27:01 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>We must admit this has never been on our bucket list but this great new kit from <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Universe</a> may very well be just the thing to get your child into Stem Learning.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4d898b0e5e874efd89a74b380e2fcaed~mv2.jpg"/><div>Suitable for ages 8 plus the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/make-your-own-magical-unicorn-poo-slime">Make Your Own Magical Unicorn Poo</a> is actually a little bit of Chemistry mixed with a whole lot of fun.</div><div>The 16 page instruction book gives your child all the help they will need to measure and mix the ingredients and to produce gorgeous gooey slime. You can make rainbow slime, stunning silver slime and even oobleck slime with this great fun kit.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_f65962849d634ddd84037d052856afbe~mv2.jpg"/><div>If making Unicorn Poo is something your child is passionate about, or they just like slime or chemistry then <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/make-your-own-magical-unicorn-poo-slime">this kit</a> is the one for you.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Skeletown - Build your own skeletown creatures</title><description><![CDATA[When we first heard about these little model kits from Colorific we thought they sounded pretty cool. You buy a kit that range in price from $4.99 for a Creator Pack to $24.99 for a town pack. Inside each kit are all the parts you need to assemble a Skele skeleton and you create them in a unique pattern that you then place into a silicone mould. Once your Skele's skeleton is placed into the mould you mix the 2 pack gel and pour it into the mould, covering your skeleton and wait for the gel to<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/pwbhXoHV01Y/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/20/Skeletown---Build-your-own-skeletown-creatures</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/20/Skeletown---Build-your-own-skeletown-creatures</guid><pubDate>Sun, 19 Nov 2017 22:56:01 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>When we first heard about these little model kits from <a href="https://www.colorific.com.au/">Colorific</a> we thought they sounded pretty cool. You buy a kit that range in price from $4.99 for a Creator Pack to $24.99 for a town pack. Inside each kit are all the parts you need to assemble a Skele skeleton and you create them in a unique pattern that you then place into a silicone mould. Once your Skele's skeleton is placed into the mould you mix the 2 pack gel and pour it into the mould, covering your skeleton and wait for the gel to set, release the Skelly from the mould and whamo, you have these transparent plastic coated Skelly creatures that have bright and colourful skeletons on display. You can even add a pen or pencil clip to become a stationary accessory for school.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pwbhXoHV01Y"/><div>The<a href="https://www.colorific.com.au/brands/skeletown">Skeletown range</a> include a <a href="https://www.colorific.com.au/product/skeletown-skelly-family-pack">Family Pack</a> with 4 Skele's, A <a href="https://www.colorific.com.au/product/skeletown-night-scene-pack">night scene pack</a> with glow in the dark Skeleton pieces and the <a href="https://www.colorific.com.au/product/skeletown-town-pack">Town Pack</a> that enables you to build a little town of 4 houses with 5 Skele's included in the Town Pack it is by far the best value of the range. The Skeli moulds include Monkey's. Kitty's, Doggy's, Bunnies and Piggy's in the range.</div><div>The concept is simple with the idea that children can collect, create, swap and play with Skele's with their friends and family. We will admit the ones we made were cute and colourful really quite different from anything else we have seen on the Australian Toy Market.</div><div>Colorific recommends Skelitown as being suitable for ages 5 - 12, with the recommendation being that &quot;Ages 5 -7 - I may need some help&quot; and &quot;Ages 8 - 12 I can do it&quot;</div><div>The first thing we noticed when we opened our Skelitown pack was the small pieces, they are really quite small and the skeleton is quite fiddly to assemble, the box is clearly labelled with a warning of &quot;choking hazard&quot; and if you have any young children around we would be very careful to ensure that they are closely supervised. Assembling each Skeleton is theoretically a click together process, select the colours and looks you want for your Skeli, add the stick on eyes and insert it (face down) into your mould. In reality it is fiddly for small fingers and whilst we can see how the Skeli would help with fine motor skills, it became a little frustrating as we tried to keep all the pieces together.</div><div>When we got our skeleton into the mould we moved onto the next stage of adding the 2 pot gel. The packaging doesn't tell us what the gel is. Carefully following the easy to read instructions we mixed the gel in the included mixing tub and using the included mixing spoon. The first thing we noticed was the smell of the glue, it is strong and we would highly recommend a heavily ventilated area at this stage. Once you have thoroughly mixed your gel, your pour it into the mould and wait for it to set. Before you get to this point, it is worth reading the &quot;Caution&quot; on the bottom of the box. In summary it tells you to avoid contact with the gel on your skin, clothes, furniture carpet etc. The gel is sticky, not in a &quot;go and wash your hands&quot; kind of way but in a it doesn't wash off without parent help kind of way. We can't help but think a pair of cheap gloves would be a great inclusion.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0f62df769daa4418bf4d89547ed3c3fc~mv2_d_3024_3628_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>For us, this was where the Skeletown range was disappointing. We carefully created 6 Skeli's. Of the 6 we made, 4 set at abut the 24 hour mark and 72 hours later the other 2 are still not set and showing no signs of setting. We are not sure if it was a dud batch of gel or operator error but it was disappointing and difficult to explain to Miss 6 who had helped us to create the Skeli's.</div><div>The smell of the Skeli also had us concerned, when they popped from the mould they still had that strong chemical smell to them, it did disappear over the next 24 hours.</div><div>Whilst we waited for the Skeli to set, we assembled the Skeletown which was a simple click together and had lots of fun stickers for Miss 6 to apply. </div><div>Despite the concerns we had during the building of the Skeli, the Skeli did come out of the mould looking fantastic and it is not hard to see kids embracing these as a craze of unlimited potential at a relatively low price point for parents pockets. The little pen clips which are included in the larger packs fit a range of pens and pencils we had and the final product is totally unique to your child.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_bf09148827354a0db8670b1c77d141b2~mv2_d_4032_3024_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>For us we give the Skeli concept a 7 out of 10, they are unique and we think most kids will love them however the &quot;building&quot; of the Skeli was a tough process to like, the pieces are small, the smell is over the top and the gel is messy if you are not super careful and the wait time for them to set is hard to explain to a child. We give that side of the Skeli process a 4 out of 10. The final product that popped out of the mould was really nice, and totally unique in the toy market. We give the final product a 7 out 10.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Shark Bite - Catch a fish but beware of the Shark</title><description><![CDATA[A good game will challenge children (and adults) intellectually but also develop a sense of anticipation and fun for all the players. The latest game from Pressman is Shark Bite and it delivers fun and suspense in huge volumes whilst maintaining a purpose in helping children with numbers, counting and fine and gross motor skills. A winning recipe in our books.The aim of the game is simple, catch your sea creature from inside the sharks mouth without getting bitten by the shark. As I said, sounds<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/qrn9PL7s4Pk/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/Shark-Bite---Catch-a-fish-but-beware-of-the-Shark</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/Shark-Bite---Catch-a-fish-but-beware-of-the-Shark</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Nov 2017 04:29:06 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>A good game will challenge children (and adults) intellectually but also develop a sense of anticipation and fun for all the players. The latest game from Pressman is <a href="http://www.pressmantoy.com/product/shark-bite/">Shark Bite</a> and it delivers fun and suspense in huge volumes whilst maintaining a purpose in helping children with numbers, counting and fine and gross motor skills. A winning recipe in our books.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qrn9PL7s4Pk"/><div>The aim of the game is simple, catch your sea creature from inside the sharks mouth without getting bitten by the shark. As I said, sounds simple, but the anticipation of an imminent shark attack has a strange habit of making it much more difficult than it sounds. <a href="http://www.pressmantoy.com/product/shark-bite/">Shark Bite</a> is designed for 2 - 4 players aged 4 plus, but we reckon adults will have just as much fun.</div><div>Everything you need for a fun game is included and the game is started by setting up the hungry shark with a mouthful of delicious seafood and assorted maritime goodies. The first player rolls the dice, now the fun begins. The player takes the included fishing rod and needs to cast into the sharks mouth and collect the number of items that matches the number on the dice. BUT BEWARE - Sharks don't like having food taken from their mouths, especially delicious seafood. Your Hungry Shark will only let you take so much before it strikes bouncing from the table into the air with a snap of the jaw. I bet you didn't see that coming!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_b33299035901491aab972bfcd22906be~mv2.jpg"/><div>If you collect your allocated catch, play moves onto the next player, but if you wake the shark, it's game over and the player with the biggest catch wins.</div><div>The suspense factor in this game is top notch and really added to the fun of playing. You never know when the shark will strike and every strike produced screams of laughter and more than a little shock.</div><div>We played with four players. Snaring the desired morsel from the sharks mouth without waking the beast is quite difficult, once it's on your hook, your committed to that piece and only time would tell if you are successful in removing the treat or a victim of a shark bite.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_197eda4e5d184f358d2d4477abd5dade~mv2.jpg"/><div>Our game, with four players, took about 20 minutes or so, fast enough that smaller kids won't get bored and lose interest.</div><div><a href="http://www.pressmantoy.com/product/shark-bite/">Shark Bite</a> is a fun game and follows in the footsteps of some other great games that Crown &amp; Andrews have released in Australia like Pop the Pig, Squawk and Catch the Fox, it's a winning formula and one we hope to see a lot more of.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Zoom Ball Hydro - Zoom Ball Makes a SPLASH!</title><description><![CDATA[Summer is just around the corner and in true Australian style, that gives us all the perfect excuse to play outdoors with the only thing that makes it better is when that play gets you soaked on a hot summer day.The original Zoom Ball from Goliath has been a family favourite for outdoor play for a really long time and it is not hard to see why. Never one to rest, the Toy Engineers at Goliath have set about turning the Zoom Ball into a great fun outdoor summer hydro game for the whole family.The<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/PPXH9G3yAIY/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/Zoom-Ball-Hydro---Zoom-Ball-Makes-a-SPLASH</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/Zoom-Ball-Hydro---Zoom-Ball-Makes-a-SPLASH</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Nov 2017 03:29:31 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Summer is just around the corner and in true Australian style, that gives us all the perfect excuse to play outdoors with the only thing that makes it better is when that play gets you soaked on a hot summer day.</div><div>The original Zoom Ball from Goliath has been a family favourite for outdoor play for a really long time and it is not hard to see why. Never one to rest, the Toy Engineers at Goliath have set about turning the Zoom Ball into a great fun outdoor summer hydro game for the whole family.</div><div>The concept is exactly the same, two handles per player on each end of 2 pieces of string, the player at one end spreads the handles apart sending the Zoom Ball hurtling to the other player. That's fun, but the <a href="http://www.goliathgames.us/product/zoom-ball-hydro/">Zoom Ball Hydro</a> is Awesome with a capital A.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PPXH9G3yAIY"/><div>The clever folks at Goliath have added suspense and drama to the game by adding the hydro function to your zoom ball. The ball now breaks in two allowing the players to insert a water balloon inside the Zoom Ball, push the two halves back together and your good to go. One thing you will notice is the <a href="http://www.goliathgames.us/product/zoom-ball-hydro/">Zoom Ball Hydro</a> has slots cut into its side, well that is where the suspense comes from! The two players slide the Zoom Ball backwards and forwards with the Water Balloon precariously poised to explode inside the Ball, when will it pop, nobody knows! But, when it does, water fly's over the player on the receiving end pouring through the slots and sending them into fits of laughter.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_171ce84b5f804f96a70c8ed3a02293a4~mv2.jpg"/><div>Simply reload and away you go again, remember payback is a dish best served cold, especially when it involves water.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.goliathgames.us/product/zoom-ball-hydro/">Zoom Ball Hydro</a> made a real splash for us at a recent family outing, we had 4 children under the age of 12 and it was hot. The kids took turns in challenging each other to see who would be the champion, if you got wet, you were out and the next player took their turn. At 2 hours, the kids returned, soaked. Not just wet, soaked and with giant smiles on their faces. The only reason they came back, they had run out of water balloons and needed more. A quick trip up the road and they were set with a pack of 24 water balloons and another hour of fun.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_63bc066db0c940a1a51280b917aa619d~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="http://www.goliathgames.us/product/zoom-ball-hydro/">Zoom Ball Hydro</a> is a great fun game, the only criticism might be that you are going to need more balloons as the game only includes 10, but at just a few dollars for a pack it really isn't that big an inconvenience. We reckon this would be a great game to take camping, to the beach or a family picnic and an awesome toy for Summer 2017.</div><div>Recommended for 2 players aged 8 plus </div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2 Player Rubiks Race is of Battleship proportions.</title><description><![CDATA[I must confess I have a soft spot for the Rubik's Cube having grown up with the Rubik's cube I have fond memories of racing to try to complete the cube and becoming incredibly frustrated when I was perpetually beaten by almost everyone.In recent years, Rubik's has set about reinventing itself with a whole variety of new games based around the legendary cube that will challenge a whole new generation, and their parents, to think outside the cube. The Rubik's cube now comes in all different sizes<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/s2epUs_yEi8/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/2-Player-Rubiks-Race-is-of-Battleship-proportions</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/08/2-Player-Rubiks-Race-is-of-Battleship-proportions</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 Nov 2017 22:35:25 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I must confess I have a soft spot for the Rubik's Cube having grown up with the Rubik's cube I have fond memories of racing to try to complete the cube and becoming incredibly frustrated when I was perpetually beaten by almost everyone.</div><div>In recent years, Rubik's has set about reinventing itself with a whole variety of new games based around the legendary cube that will challenge a whole new generation, and their parents, to think outside the cube. The Rubik's cube now comes in all different sizes and shapes and the level of difficulty increases with each larger version but the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/rubiks-race/">Rubik's Race</a> is something altogether different.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s2epUs_yEi8"/><div>First of all it is a two player game and is played on a board that resembles the kind of board you might see in the classic game battleship, each player receives 24 tiles which are randomly arranged on their board and one space is left empty. The players then bring out &quot;The Scrambler!&quot;</div><div>The Scrambler is a small plastic cube that has a see through lid, you place the small coloured cubes into The Scrambler, secure the lid (this is very important if you don't want to be chasing cubes) and shake until the cubes settle into the base in a random pattern. Once the pattern is set, the race commences.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d949d31c19624607bd05eafcf2234ccd~mv2.jpg"/><div>Each player slides their 24 tiles around their board until the centre 9 squares match the layout in &quot;The Scrambler.&quot; The left over tiles are moved to the outer ring of tiles in any order you like. The first to match The Scrambler layout is the winner.</div><div>Playing the game reminded me of the sliding tile puzzles we used to play as kids where you either had to put your tiles in the right spot to make an image or number order, they were in many ways our pre computer screens that we would spend hours trying to sort through and the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/rubiks-race/">Rubik's Race</a> adds a great element of competition to the concept.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ffc63d023f9b407eb8c5dc146deb1343~mv2.jpg"/><div>Once you have mastered the basic game using The Scrambler you can mix it up to use all types of different patterns, you can even substitute The Scrambler for a Rubik's Cube with each player racing to match a different side, you are only limited by your imagination (and the number of tiles you have) and the instructions come with some great suggestions.</div><div>My two children, who are teenagers, played <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/rubiks-race/">Rubik's Race</a> together, it was great challenging fun for them and looks to be every bit as addictive as the original Rubik's Cube if the 6 straight games they played are any indication.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/rubiks-race/">Rubik's Race</a> is a 2 player game and is recommended for ages 5 plus and it is great fun for children and adults alike, even if it doesn't involve a computer screen or batteries and all for just a little over $20.00 in Australia.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Super Sand gives you a super sandpit experience</title><description><![CDATA[Building Sand Castles is as Aussie as Meat Pies, Kangaroos and (once upon a time) Holden Cars. For many, building sand castles was a favourite past time of visits to the beach with parents and grandparents but of course, it came with its problems, in particular Australian Sand isn't always the best at forming and holding shapes, sure, the master sand carvers of Sydney's Bondi Beach have it all working for them, but the average beach and sandcastle connoisseur can find it difficult to build an<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_fabb1e0770a14683970bcea55811b5aa%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_500%2Ch_368/777202_fabb1e0770a14683970bcea55811b5aa%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/01/Super-Sand-gives-you-a-super-sandpit-experience</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/11/01/Super-Sand-gives-you-a-super-sandpit-experience</guid><pubDate>Wed, 01 Nov 2017 06:59:30 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Building Sand Castles is as Aussie as Meat Pies, Kangaroos and (once upon a time) Holden Cars. For many, building sand castles was a favourite past time of visits to the beach with parents and grandparents but of course, it came with its problems, in particular Australian Sand isn't always the best at forming and holding shapes, sure, the master sand carvers of Sydney's Bondi Beach have it all working for them, but the average beach and sandcastle connoisseur can find it difficult to build an impressive sand castle, until now.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_fabb1e0770a14683970bcea55811b5aa~mv2.jpg"/><div>Goliath have released a great range of Super Sand, and to be honest, the only resemblance to the sand at Bondi is the name. Super Sand is a 100% natural mixture of Sand and Limestone that is crushed and mixed to create a white sandy textured substance with the plasticity and stickiness of Play Doh or Silly Putty. </div><div>The Super Sand pack contains everything you will need to create fantastic animal scenes, with a work tray, 3 Moulds and a roller of animal prints that makes creating great animal shapes that don't collapse a breeze.</div><div>The first thing that surprised us with the Super Sand is the non mess nature of the product, it really is super easy to clean and despite the way it sticks to itself it really doesn't stick to your hands, clothes or carpet, in many ways the opposite of any experience I have had at Bondi Beach.</div><div>The 3 included moulds are a Monkey, Lion and Elephant and there is plenty of Super Sand to make all 3 with plenty left over for a background or jungle floor which you can then roll with the included Animal Prints roller.</div><div>We had a great time with the Super Sand and made a great little animal scene that was super easy to make and then clean. If we had a criticism, and it would be minor, a bit of colour wouldn't go astray but at the end of the day, that would probably mean some chemicals to colour the product and one of the things we really loved was that it is 100% natural and Hypoallergenic.</div><div>Super Sand is a great fun set and a must have for the creative genius in your family looking for a new way to create.</div><div>Recommended for ages 4 to 99 plus and available at all good Toy Retailers.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e08f3ad6b2184a28991cc9306ee0824f~mv2.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Air Hogs Thunder Trax - go anywhere and do almost anything - literally</title><description><![CDATA[Having just reviewed the Air Hogs DR1 Race drone we didn't expect to be blown away by the Thunder Trax, but we were in so many ways.As far as remote control vehicles go, these are awesome. Built Air Hogs tough and designed for ages 8 plus, the Air Hogs Thunder Trax is a true go anywhere, all terrain remote control vehicle or tank as it is described. Built with a wide base track system the Thunder Trax mows through grass, dirt roads, snow and is even amphibious for a true go anywhere vehicle.The<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/JqCBTlYyK2s/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/20/Air-Hogs-Thunder-Trax---go-anywhere-and-do-anything---literally</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/20/Air-Hogs-Thunder-Trax---go-anywhere-and-do-anything---literally</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Oct 2017 05:58:27 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Having just reviewed the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">Air Hogs DR1 Race drone</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">we didn't expect to be blown away by the</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-thunder-trax-rc-vehicle-2-4ghz">Thunder Trax</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">, but we were in so many ways.</a></div><div>As far as remote control vehicles go, these are awesome. Built Air Hogs tough and designed for ages 8 plus, the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-thunder-trax-rc-vehicle-2-4ghz">Air Hogs Thunder Trax</a> is a true go anywhere, all terrain remote control vehicle or tank as it is described. Built with a wide base track system the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-thunder-trax-rc-vehicle-2-4ghz">Thunder Trax</a> mows through grass, dirt roads, snow and is even amphibious for a true go anywhere vehicle.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JqCBTlYyK2s"/><div>The<div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products_preview?preview_key=cb0325a2a63fc33c8ba87723a195b8f5"></a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-thunder-trax-rc-vehicle-2-4ghz">Thunder Trax vehicle</a></div> features a rechargeable battery (with USB Charger cable) and a remote control that is perfectly sized for large and small hands alike. You will require 3 x AAA batteries to power the remote which are not included.</div><div>The video above makes some outrageous claims as to the ability of this vehicle and we tested them all (except snow which is not exceptionally prevalent in October in Australia) and we can honestly say that everything in the commercial is true, it is an amazingly fun remote control vehicle. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_a31e9787ddb44595a4bea7544d12f395~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4342221398bd414d896a8212c85b722f~mv2.jpg"/><div>In our use, which was pretty much flat out the whole time, we got about a half hour of drive time out of each charge, with a little bit of conservative use this would probably increase a bit, but the battery time would be the only thing we could improve on with this vehicle.</div><div>If you are not going to fly the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">Air Hogs DR1 Race Drone</a> this Christmas, then you will certainly want to drive the <div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products_preview?preview_key=cb0325a2a63fc33c8ba87723a195b8f5">A</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-thunder-trax-rc-vehicle-2-4ghz">ir Hogs Thunder Trax</a></div>, the perfect toy for a beach side summer in Australia.</div><div>We couldn't help but notice the similarities to the real life latest toy the Armed Forces have created on a real life scale. We think that is pretty cool.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ba5f41ec64d74fbe9d1ddda29621f5c7~mv2.jpg"/><div>.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Air Hogs DR1 Race Drone - puts you in the Pilots' seat.</title><description><![CDATA[The Air Hogs DR1 Race Drone was a smash hit at the Hong Kong Toy Fair in more ways than one. Firstly because we tried it, and smashed it and secondly because it is just awesome!The drone itself is quite small at approx 9cm square with four propellers and a forward facing camera like so many other drones on the market but that is where the similarities end and the fun begins. The drone comes with a set of viewing goggles which are not dissimilar in look and size to the virtual reality goggles<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/Op0_O-jlmcI/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/20/Air-Hogs-DR1-Race-Drone---puts-you-in-the-Pilots-seat</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/20/Air-Hogs-DR1-Race-Drone---puts-you-in-the-Pilots-seat</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Oct 2017 04:02:43 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">Air Hogs DR1 Race Drone</a> was a smash hit at the Hong Kong Toy Fair in more ways than one. Firstly because we tried it, and smashed it and secondly because it is just awesome!</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">The drone</a> itself is quite small at approx 9cm square with four propellers and a forward facing camera like so many other drones on the market but that is where the similarities end and the fun begins. The drone comes with a set of viewing goggles which are not dissimilar in look and size to the virtual reality goggles which have gained popularity over the last few years. Air Hogs have created a free app that you download to your iphone or Android phone (not included) and sync to your drone, you then load your phone into the goggles and strap yourself in for take off. </div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Op0_O-jlmcI"/><div>Utilising the auto take off feature, you see exactly what your drone pilot would see as if they were sitting in the cockpit with the image from the camera beamed straight to your goggles in real time. Zoom thru the air, barrel roll and perform stunts or simply take in the birds eye view from way up above.</div><div>The app also enables you to capture video of your flight, edit it and share it with your mates, compare your abilities with your friends and challenge each other to some amazing flight duels as your skills develop.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_59627b60fd46453bb760b9ff81c4d50e~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9519e219fe6340729a1ac4327f69dfc4~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_acc68366b6484d10afb20dce1be2e05b~mv2.jpg"/><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/air-hogs-dr1-official-fpv-race-drone">Air Hogs DR1 Race drone</a> is a great drone for beginners and intermediate pilots alike and is designed for ages ten plus. The crash resistant bumpers give an added element of toughness for the beginner.The drone itself features a rechargeable battery (with a USB Charger cable) and the remote requires 3 x AAA Batteries, the rechargeable battery gives you about 20 minutes flight time dependant upon how hard you fly it and a few spare propeller blades will have you back in the air in no time, should you damage your drone.</div><div>Flying the drone is really very intuitive (and I am usually not great at these types of toys) and in no time at all I had advanced beyond bouncing off walls and into my virtual cockpit that was seamlessly portrayed on my phone inside the goggles. </div><div>Despite my early lack of coordination the drone was none the worse for wear and it would seem to be really well built. The goggles are a comfortable fit and not at all heavy on your face.</div><div>This drone must be experienced to be believed and where really certain it will become one of the must have toys for Christmas 2017.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Molkky - Outdoor Fun - No screen required!</title><description><![CDATA[Whenever we get a game without a screen we get super excited, especially if that game is designed to get kids moving and having fun outdoors.The Molkky game was first released in Finland over 20 years ago and is now available in Australia thanks to Crown and Andrews. If your a fan of Ten Pin Bowling, Lawn Bowls or Boules Bocce we think we have found your new game of choice.Molkky comes in a sturdy wooden box, a little like an old fashioned milk crate and inside are the 12 Skittles and the Molkky<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/ZeEB8413vO8/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/19/Molkky---Outdoor-Fun---No-screen-required</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/19/Molkky---Outdoor-Fun---No-screen-required</guid><pubDate>Wed, 18 Oct 2017 22:10:00 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Whenever we get a game without a screen we get super excited, especially if that game is designed to get kids moving and having fun outdoors.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Molkky game</a> was first released in Finland over 20 years ago and is now available in Australia thanks to <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Crown and Andrews.</a></div><div>If your a fan of Ten Pin Bowling, Lawn Bowls or Boules Bocce we think we have found your new game of choice.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZeEB8413vO8"/><div><a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Molkky</a> comes in a sturdy wooden box, a little like an old fashioned milk crate and inside are the 12 Skittles and the Molkky throwing skittle, the throwing skittle is easily identified as it is the only one without a number. Each of the pieces is solid wood, as is the box so the whole set weighs in at just on 4.5 kilograms.</div><div>Setting up the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Molkky game</a> is simple, tip the skittles out of the box and remove the throwing skittle and place it to one side, arrange the remaining skittles in a tight formation with the angled ends pointing up. All you do then is step back between 2 and 3 metres (the further back, the more difficult the game is). Once you are in position it is time to play.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_a3a62c30239e451ba295233c13e8a3f1~mv2_d_1500_1605_s_2.jpg"/><div>To play, you simply throw the throwing skittle underarm at the cluster of skittles. If you knock over one skittle, your score is the number printed on the skittle and if you knock over more than one, your score is the number of skittles you have knocked over. Once you knock over the skittle and record your score the skittle is placed back upright where it landed and is back in play. If you miss more than 3 times in a row, your game is over, the first player to reach a score of exactly 50 is the winner, however, go over 50 and your score reduces to 25 and off you go again in chase of the elusive 50.</div><div>Keeping score is easy, the game includes a score book but you also get access to the free Play Store or I Tunes App that makes scoring simple and will perhaps alleviate any arguments or suspicions of the scoring.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9cb0078b132344b5afece5a24fc0dfc4~mv2.jpg"/><div>We played an office game of <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Molkky</a>, although we are all over 40 and it is recommended for ages 7 plus (although the box suggest over 3 years old), we still had a ball. We all expressed a little concern at a 3 year old hurling a piece of timber around, but a 7 year old should be no real risk in most cases. </div><div>After an hour of playing we had eliminated 2 players for missing more than 3 times and 2 of us were left playing but neither of us could land on a precise score of 50, we could have kept playing but it was time to pick up the next toy to test, so we called it a draw and left with smiles on our faces.</div><div><a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/molkky-original/">Molkky</a> was a great fun game to play, as I said, three year old's hurling a skittle will need some supervision at a bare minimum (or wait until they are 7) but otherwise it is fun outdoor game for ages 7 - 99 not out and all age groups can easily play together and with a maximum of 23 players, it is perfect for a get together with family or friends. With no real need for strength, fitness or athletic prowess, we think this game will bring a smile to faces this summer.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Test Match Cricket Game, does it live up to it's reputation?</title><description><![CDATA[The Test Match Cricket game was first introduced into Australia in 1977 and many of today's parents, myself included loved nothing more than spending hour after hour with our mates "bowling" to our mates and subsequently slogging away at the ball in a vague attempt to score a six which for the most part was a hugely unsuccessful endeavour but it certainly was a favourite game.Of course, since 1977 the game of Cricket has changed and we have seen the introduction of 20/20 cricket, the decline of<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6b6deb8ed3e448a8a3c307e5ef183105%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_260%2Ch_158/777202_6b6deb8ed3e448a8a3c307e5ef183105%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/16/Test-Match-Cricket-Game-does-it-live-up-to-its-reputation</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/16/Test-Match-Cricket-Game-does-it-live-up-to-its-reputation</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 Oct 2017 00:47:35 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The Test Match Cricket game was first introduced into Australia in 1977 and many of today's parents, myself included loved nothing more than spending hour after hour with our mates &quot;bowling&quot; to our mates and subsequently slogging away at the ball in a vague attempt to score a six which for the most part was a hugely unsuccessful endeavour but it certainly was a favourite game.</div><div>Of course, since 1977 the game of Cricket has changed and we have seen the introduction of 20/20 cricket, the decline of one dayers and arguable rebirth of the game at Junior and test level. Now with the Ashes just around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to review the current version of Crown and Andrews Test Match Game.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6b6deb8ed3e448a8a3c307e5ef183105~mv2.jpg"/><div>With changes in the game, so to have there been changes to <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/test-match/">Test Match</a>, some are obvious and some are subtle, but they are all designed to reflect the modern game. The first thing we noticed was the size of the felt &quot;pitch&quot;, it is no longer the same shape as a 50 cent coin, more length has been added and as a result it is narrower in the centre with the playing pitch being approx 1 metre long and 65 cm wide. Also immediately obvious is the new bowling mechanism, the old test match used a ramp to create an underarm style of bowling whereas the current model uses a spring loaded type mechanism to allow the bowler to bowl overarm with a heavier ball all of which allows the bowler to control the speed of the delivery.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xAnaDAKgUkw"/><div>The rules have been updated and now include 20/20 and 50 over versions of the game, which obviously didn't exist in 1977.</div><div>Opening the box for <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/test-match/">test match</a>, you will fine the familiar green playing field, A batting player, a bowler and wicket keeper as well as 9 fielders in a variety of crouching and standing positions. with the traditional pocket between their feet to &quot;catch&quot; the ball and dismiss the batsman. Finally of course, the crisp clean white boundary fence that clips to the playing pitch with the included clips.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6b6deb8ed3e448a8a3c307e5ef183105~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/test-match/">Crown and Andrews</a> have designated the game for ages six to adult and up to 22 players. Where sure some 6 year olds would be fine but the majority would need some assistance with this game. 22 players would be a tough ask to keep busy throughout a game, but then again, real life cricket has a lot of waiting as well, so it is feasible. Setting up test match is a breeze, even if you know nothing about cricket. The instructions provide helpful diagrams for fielders positions and the best way to set up your game. It is very difficult if you are playing this game on anything but a hard smooth surface such as a table as anything else really affects the ball delivery. A word of caution, the ball is little and red and resembles a round Skittle so keep it away from little fingers.</div><div>Time to play, the toss of a coin decides which team bats and which bowls, if your bowling, you decide the pace of the ball. Getting the bowler to bowl the way you want does take practice, it is a little more difficult than the roller version of the 70's to get an accurate ball but once the player gets their eye in, it's game on.</div><div>The Batting team use the Pistol grip of the batter to swing at the ball and timing is everything, just like in the real game.</div><div>We took out the game at a recent dinner party and played with 6 adults, interestingly all but two of us had played it as a kid yet none of us played cricket. We all struggled to play the game for the first few hours, it may have been the red wine, or our skill level, but we all agreed it was a harder game to play than the original version from our child hood. Doubling down our concentration and a little practice soon saw the 20/20 version of the game in full swing although a few wides, and no balls were still bowled, for the most part the game went according to plan.</div><div>It was easy to keep score using the score pad included, although with only 6, you will need more in due course.</div><div>At the end of the game, we all agreed that we had fond memories of the old version of <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/test-match/">Test Match</a> amongst those of us that had played it, not that there was anything wrong with the current version, it is just different and just a little more difficult to master but once mastered, it is every bit as good as the original. I think those who grew up in the 70's might be slightly frustrated, as we were, when we first started playing but once you get into the swing of the game, it is every bit as much fun as the original and the different formats of the game make it more dynamic and flexible.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Doggie Doo is back in Australia</title><description><![CDATA[The Goliath Games Doggie Doo classic game has made a triumphant return to Australia just in time for Christmas.The Doggie Doo game was first conceptualised in the 90's and despite its subsequent success, it took the creators many years to find a manufacturer willing to take on a game that involved the bodily functions of a pet Dachshund. Fast Forward to 2009 and Goliath games knew they had found their winner and quickly developed the game for worldwide release. From its initial launch, this game<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/UeF-YWY5fwg/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/11/Doggie-Doo-is-back-in-Australia</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/11/Doggie-Doo-is-back-in-Australia</guid><pubDate>Wed, 11 Oct 2017 01:45:40 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The Goliath Games Doggie Doo classic game has made a triumphant return to Australia just in time for Christmas.</div><div>The Doggie Doo game was first conceptualised in the 90's and despite its subsequent success, it took the creators many years to find a manufacturer willing to take on a game that involved the bodily functions of a pet Dachshund. Fast Forward to 2009 and Goliath games knew they had found their winner and quickly developed the game for worldwide release. From its initial launch, this game has been a best seller worldwide and has made an appearance on shelves in Australia at various times to quickly sell out. Now, <a href="https://www.mrtoys.com.au/doggie-doo-17968.html">Mr Toys Toyworld</a> has brought it back into Australia with an exclusive deal.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UeF-YWY5fwg"/><div>The game is designed for 2 - 4 players aged 4 plus and really harnesses most children's never ending fascination with all bodily functions and sounds to engage your child in this fun game. The game includes a mini Dachshund (no walking required), a leash that resembles the retractable ones that are so popular with dog owners, four pooper scoopers, a can of &quot;dog food&quot; and a spinning wheel and for only $29.99 (at Oct 2017) promises great fun for your childs toilet humour antics.</div><div>The aim of the game is simple, pick up more Doggie Doo than your fellow players and you win, what sounds like an unattractive chore to most dog owners has been transformed into fun antics for your child. Being a Dachshund, your Doggie is always hungry, feed him some of his special &quot;dog food&quot;, spin the wheel and squeeze the leash the number of times indicted by the spinning wheel, each squeeze of the leash helps Doggie Doo a, well, Doggie Doo and lets just say, if it was real life, doggies gas would clear a room! If Doggie doesn't do a Doggie Doo, the next player takes a turn, but if Doggie &quot;performs&quot;, you win a token. The first player to win 3 tokens wins the game!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0c19ab8faaf045a1bca61817530dd121~mv2.jpg"/><div>We took advantage of family game night to test out the fun of the game with our 4 and 6 year olds. Setup is super simple and the laughter started with the very first mention of Dog Pooh and only got louder as we tried to delicately explain that doggie might very well &quot;pass wind&quot; to which our Miss 4 year old screamed &quot;you mean Faaaaaarrrrrttttttt!&quot; together with accompanying sound effects from Mr 6.</div><div>The game takes about 30 minutes to play, perfect for the attention span of the intended age group and i don't think either child stopped laughing the entire time. It was a close fought game, but at the end, Mr 6 was crowned &quot;King of Doggie Doo&quot; much to his amusement, so amused was he that he felt it necessary to ring Grandma and inform her of his crowning achievement! Sorry Mum!!</div><div>There is no doubt that Doggie Doo is fun and certainly appeals in the toilet humour category. It is not hard t see how Goliath have sold more than 1,000,000 games worldwide. Some smaller children may find it a little difficult to squeeze the trigger on the lead one handed but using two hands seems to resolve that issue. The only other potential Doggie Doo issue can be constipation, thankfully we didn't have to deal with that but apparently a flush with warm water is all you need to clear out even the most stubborn Doggie Doo.</div><div>Available exclusively at <a href="https://www.mrtoys.com.au/doggie-doo-17968.html">Mr Toys Toyworld</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pokemon Trainer Guess, will guess your favourite Pokemon</title><description><![CDATA[Do you have a Pokemon Trainer in your house that is looking to take their passion for Pokemon to the next level?The Pokemon Guess, Kanto edition, is an interactive toy for children ages 6 plus that is designed to be used with the included Trainer Field Guide which lists almost every Pokemon you could ever want.The concept is simple yet genius to the young Pokemon trainer. Think of your favourite Pokemon, press the button on your Trainer Guess and answer the questions the Trainer asks you with<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/qIJgYarsTxE/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/03/Pokemon-Trainer-Guess-will-guess-your-favourite-Pokemon</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/10/03/Pokemon-Trainer-Guess-will-guess-your-favourite-Pokemon</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Oct 2017 04:30:48 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Do you have a Pokemon Trainer in your house that is looking to take their passion for Pokemon to the next level?</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qIJgYarsTxE"/><div>The Pokemon Guess, Kanto edition, is an interactive toy for children ages 6 plus that is designed to be used with the included Trainer Field Guide which lists almost every Pokemon you could ever want.</div><div>The concept is simple yet genius to the young Pokemon trainer. Think of your favourite Pokemon, press the button on your Trainer Guess and answer the questions the Trainer asks you with either Yes or No. As you answer the questions, The Trainer Guess eliminates Pokemon from its mind, working its way through the range of Pokemon until it is confident it has guessed your favourite. If it guesses correctly, it adds the Pokemon to your collection then tick it off in your official trainer guide.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_dbfd4699234a420d873cf9feddd4d75f~mv2.jpeg"/><div>Time to play again.</div><div>Like magic the Trainer Guess asks</div><div>“Is your Pokemon a Fire type?”</div><div>“Yes”</div><div>“Does your Pokemon have a tail?”</div><div>“Yes”</div><div>“Is your Pokemon a Charihazard?”</div><div>100% correct and now part of my collection.</div><div>With over 150 Pokemon to guess for you, the Pokemon Trainer Guess is bound to be hours of fun for the Pokemon fanatic.</div><div>The Pokemon Trainer Guess is able to be played by multiple players aged 6 plus, although it can get a bit confusing when everyone talks at once. We did try to fool the software with silly accents but it was able to recognise our voice without any problem. Be warned though, children will find the game addictive, parents may find it a tad loud. The Australian version also doesn’t come with the stand you will see in some of the overseas models but does include AAA batteries.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_8d33b602eaa94d56bc9f7b13c091d29f~mv2.jpeg"/><div>We had our resident Pokemon fan talking to the Trainer Guess for over an hour and despite our serious attempts to fool the device, we were blown away by the deductive reasoning and voice recognition in a product that retails for under $35.00.</div><div>If your Pokemon Trainer wants to get their hands on a Trainer Guess they are available exclusively at <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/">Big W</a>.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Toy's R Us seeks Bankruptcy protection</title><description><![CDATA[The Toys R Us brand, which includes 30 stores in Australia has filed for bankruptcy protection in the USA.Reports from various sources suggest that there are multiple causes for the business troubles. More details at https://goo.gl/cpBi8C. Toys R Us Castle Hill (Photo News Limited)Just what this means for the Australian Business and Australian Families as they head into Christmas is unknown at the moment with more information likely to become available in the coming days.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_35fdd442b9824e6e9e1933f0352b0a5d%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_622%2Ch_350/777202_35fdd442b9824e6e9e1933f0352b0a5d%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/09/19/Toys-R-Us-in-trouble</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/09/19/Toys-R-Us-in-trouble</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2017 06:41:32 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The Toys R Us brand, which includes 30 stores in Australia has filed for bankruptcy protection in the USA.</div><div>Reports from various sources suggest that there are multiple causes for the business troubles. More details at https://goo.gl/cpBi8C.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_35fdd442b9824e6e9e1933f0352b0a5d~mv2.jpg"/><div> Toys R Us Castle Hill (Photo News Limited)</div><div>Just what this means for the Australian Business and Australian Families as they head into Christmas is unknown at the moment with more information likely to become available in the coming days.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Rev Racerz Zero G defies gravity</title><description><![CDATA[The Rev Racerz Zero G range has landed in Australia and we were able to check them out to see what all the hype was about.The Rev Racerz have been around for a little while. The little friction powered motorbikes are small enough to fit in your pocket but fast enough to create some classic spills and thrills in the playground at school and with a huge range, kids have been swapping and duelling them in playgrounds all over Australia.The Brand Rev Racerz Zero G range takes advantage of the bikes<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/q6aQZnNAl5U/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Mystery toy tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/09/06/Rev-Racerz-Zero-G-defies-gravity</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/09/06/Rev-Racerz-Zero-G-defies-gravity</guid><pubDate>Wed, 06 Sep 2017 06:42:10 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_q=zero%20g">Rev Racerz Zero G</a> range has landed in Australia and we were able to check them out to see what all the hype was about.</div><div>The Rev Racerz have been around for a little while. The little friction powered motorbikes are small enough to fit in your pocket but fast enough to create some classic spills and thrills in the playground at school and with a huge range, kids have been swapping and duelling them in playgrounds all over Australia.</div><div>The Brand <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_q=zero%20g">Rev Racerz Zero G</a>range takes advantage of the bikes small form and incredible speed to create a toy that appears to defy gravity.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q6aQZnNAl5U"/><div>It is worth noting that the Rev Racerz and the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_q=zero%20g">Rev Racerz Zero G</a> may look similar, but they are a world apart.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_q=zero%20g">Rev Racerz Zero G</a> come in five different kits so there is one to suit everyone’s needs and with the most expensive set costing less than $35.00 <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/rev-racerz-zero-g-supersonic-sprint-track">for the Supersonic Sprint Track</a> and the cheapest at under $10 for the launcher there is a Rev Racerz Zero G to suit every budget.</div><div>The Rev Racerz utilise a launcher that sends the Zero G hurtling along at scale speeds of 450km/h (that is the manufacturers way of saying it is really fast for its size!) and the rest is up to you. You can buy a <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/rev-racerz-zero-g-single-pack">single Rev Racerz Zero G</a> and send it hurtling down the playground or you can expand your horizons and take advantage of the Zero G sets that are truly gravity defying.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_7d2feb60604e4d04b5c361797b581046~mv2.jpg"/><div>The top of the range Rev Racerz Zero G Supersonic Sprint Pack is for the true speed and stunt demon in the house. Featuring 2 loops and a zero G tube the challenge is to launch your Rev Racerz Zero G and see if it will defy gravity and make it through the Zero G Tube in a record time before launching off the ramp at the end of the track for some serious air. Race your mates or challenge your best time, either way it is a hair raising dose of fun.</div><div>Stepping down in price, but not in attitude is the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/rev-racerz-zero-g-burn-turn-track">Zero G Burn and Turn Track</a>, with a single loop, longer straight segments and of course, the Zero G tube it is every bit as challenging for the uninitiated and the jump at the end of the track really gives the Rev Racerz some serious height.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d5cf416aede94eef93564dd4933076dc~mv2.jpg"/><div>The kits all come with everything you will need, including a Rev Racerz Zero G and all the parts click together easily and quickly to setup or expand your set. However, being so popular, one Rev Racerz is never enough. The Rev Racerz can be brought individually or in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/rev-racerz-zero-g-quad-stunt-pack">packs of four, with the four pack including a freestanding ramp</a> for freestyle fun and with Orange, Yellow, Blue, Red and White available randomly you will want to trade with your mates to collect the whole set.</div><div>We loved the original Rev Racerz, and there is nothing about the Rev Racerz Zero G range that isn’t better than the original.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Nerf Reinvents Fun with its new Nitro Range</title><description><![CDATA[Nerf continues to reinvent fun with their latest offering, the Nerf Nitro range from Hasbro.The Nerf Nitro takes the Nerf Gun concept to a whole new level with an exciting twist that opens a whole new field of play for children aged 5 plus who love speed, stunts and fun challenges.The Nerf Nitro concept centres around a lightweight foam car that is loaded into the Nerf Blaster. The included accessory ramps and obstacles are then set up to challenge the driver to find a clear path of destruction<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/2z0rqcyIUqc/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/07/13/Nerf-Reinvents-Fun-with-its-new-Nitro-Range</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/07/13/Nerf-Reinvents-Fun-with-its-new-Nitro-Range</guid><pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2017 01:22:38 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf</a> continues to reinvent fun with their latest offering, the Nerf Nitro range from Hasbro.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf Nitro</a> takes the Nerf Gun concept to a whole new level with an exciting twist that opens a whole new field of play for children aged 5 plus who love speed, stunts and fun challenges.</div><div>The N<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">erf Nitro</a> concept centres around a lightweight foam car that is loaded into the Nerf Blaster. The included accessory ramps and obstacles are then set up to challenge the driver to find a clear path of destruction to launch the Nitro car up the ramp to get some serious air. Will the Nitro hit the obstacles or sail straight over the top to get the maximum distance?</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2z0rqcyIUqc"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf Nitro</a> can be played as a single player game or challenge your friends to see who can get the most distance, jump the tallest obstacle or knock down the most obstacles. <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf Nitro</a> can also be used for straight out drag racing with 2 or more blasters, set up your course and see who has the speed to cross the chequered flag first.</div><div>The exciting part of the Nerf Nitro, apart from speed, is that they have done away with a track altogether, this is a true take anywhere kind of toy that takes seconds to set up and packs away into a small space for ease of storage. Gone are the days of flimsy plastic tracks that constantly fall apart and take up an entire playroom, these Nerf Nitro’s are portable and versatile and can be set up in seconds.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf Nitro</a> has a starter set, called the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/nerf-nitro-throttleshot-blitz-blaster">Nerf Nitro Throttle Shot Blaster</a> which includes one foam Nitro Car and Throttle Shot Launcher with 2 obstacles and is a great way to dip your toe into the range. Once you’re hooked, and we think you will be, it’s time to get serious with the bigger sets, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/nerf-nitro-flashfury-chaos-blaster">The Nerf Nitro Flashfury Chaos Blaster</a>, which is the largest set which includes the Blaster, three Nitro Cars, the Long Jump Ramp and 2 pop up obstacles for an added dimension of challenging fun or The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/nerf-nitro-longshot-smash-blaster">Nerf Nitro Longshot Smash Blaster</a>, which includes the Blaster, two Nitro cars, four obstacles and the Long Jump ramp. You can expand your collection with <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/nerf-nitro-foam-car-3-pack?variant=46156069077">additional Nitro Cars</a> (Sold Separately in packs of three with four varieties).</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_159910c337e74e609b9a9b9813769fdd~mv2.jpg"/><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf range</a> from Hasbro has been popular for generations and, whilst the new Nerf Nitro range is a switch from the traditional “shoot em up” type toys that Nerf are best known for, we think they are filling a unique slot in the market with this challenging, high speed car game with action and stunts that will appeal to a wide variety of kids. Add in its versatility with its “no track” set up, combined with the Foam Nitro Car to protect walls and skirting boards and we think Nerf have created a unique way to inject fun into your child’s life.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5edd594f549d4147b0450bd59e9de1e2~mv2.jpg"/><div>We had the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/nerf-nitro-flashfury-chaos-blaster">Nerf Nitro Flashfury Chaos Blaster</a> to test. The first thing we noticed was the lightness of the cars, they are super light, but the plastic chassis makes them solid enough to withstand the rigours of being slammed into obstacles. Some of the interactive obstacles required a small amount of assembly, simple and quick to create and then you have to insert the firing pin into the Launcher itself, again quick and simple. We did like the safety mechanism on the bottom of the Blaster, essentially it can’t fire unless it is on a solid surface, this should avoid the temptation for children to shoot each other with cars.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/nerf">Nerf Nitro range</a> is really awesome fun, it has a ton of power and speed and is really easy and versatile to use. We loved how Nerf has reinvented the race car concept and, in our opinion improved it out of sight and we think your child will be just as excited by them as we were.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Port A Ball - Seriously fun ball, seriously small.</title><description><![CDATA[The Port A Ball is another new product from the powerhouse of Kids Toys, Goliath.Every child I have ever met will want to kick a ball around the yard, the beach the lounge room and school playground, pretty much anywhere you go in Australia where kids get together you are likely to see a group kicking around a ball.As we all know the ball is just a bag of air, but traditional balls need special pumps to blow them up, are almost impossible to deflate and take up a heap of room in the car, the<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ece7f7c1e3a14113aed229913ca514df%7Emv2.png"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/23/Port-A-Ball---Seriously-fun-ball-seriously-small</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/23/Port-A-Ball---Seriously-fun-ball-seriously-small</guid><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jun 2017 05:48:26 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> is another new product from the powerhouse of Kids Toys, Goliath.</div><div>Every child I have ever met will want to kick a ball around the yard, the beach the lounge room and school playground, pretty much anywhere you go in Australia where kids get together you are likely to see a group kicking around a ball.</div><div>As we all know the ball is just a bag of air, but traditional balls need special pumps to blow them up, are almost impossible to deflate and take up a heap of room in the car, the schoolbag or they are lugged around by your child all day at school assuming they remember to take it at all.</div><div>Well, not anymore.</div><div>The new <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> is a lightweight soccer style ball that inflates and deflates in seconds using nothing more than breath power. </div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> comes in a variety of random colours, and is super lightweight, deflated it weighs in at a measly 15 grams (super light) and folds up into mere millimetres of space. It is so light, we actually thought we had got an empty box!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c9a0699cafbb4f0a973c4e9872032eab~mv2.png"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ece7f7c1e3a14113aed229913ca514df~mv2.png"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_893c51a2075d4b34b46711fe7b1c6536~mv2.png"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0986f6a333c34cf7927174897d9abc02~mv2.png"/><div>Being light and compact gives the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> the versatility that has always been missing, leave the ball in your school bag and you will always be ready for a soccer game with your mates, carry it in your pocket, you never know who might want to kick the ball around.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> is inflated using the included mouthpiece which fits into the specially created valve that is the secret the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> simplicity.</div><div>The<a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> is able to be inflated to the desired pressure with just one mouthful of air from an adult although our toy testing team of youngsters took two mouthfuls to get the ball fully inflated. </div><div>We took the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port a Bal</a>l down to the local park, in under 5 seconds we had it pumped up for an office game of soccer. It is a much lighter ball than a conventional soccer ball, which gave it plenty of power when it was kicked. It is super bouncy and surprisingly durable. It probably wouldn't survive the rigours of a fully fledged soccer game, boots and all but then, it isn't designed for that.</div><div>The ball comes with a little plastic mouthpiece to assist in blowing up the ball. It is made of hard plastic and would easily fit in the pocket. The only concern we would have is losing the mouthpiece, but with a bit of care it should be easily located given it is as brightly coloured as the ball.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/port-a-ball/">Port A Ball</a> is a convenient answer to space consuming lugging around of Balls for fun play, these literally take almost no space and for about $10.00 each, perfect way to spend some pocket money.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LCqCiMAvHDg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Laughter is the best medicine with the Game of Things</title><description><![CDATA[Do you need a laugh?You need The Game of Things!Crown & Andrews are so confident that it will make you laugh that the box even says “The Contents Of This Box Are Guaranteed To Make You Laugh!”The very first thing you notice about The Game of Things is the stylish box, made out of sturdy wood it would be just as suitable for a teenagers bedroom as it would be in the most stately of lounge rooms. The Game of Things is designed for a more mature game market. The team at Crown & Andrews recommend it<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_270c19fa88d14f6f8f54d00d2da12bcb%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/20/Laughter-is-the-best-medicine-with-the-Game-of-Things</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/20/Laughter-is-the-best-medicine-with-the-Game-of-Things</guid><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2017 07:24:56 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Do you need a laugh?</div><div>You need<a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a>!</div><div>Crown &amp; Andrews are so confident that it will make you laugh that the box even says “The Contents Of This Box Are Guaranteed To Make You Laugh!”</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p0iMu0sNZFA"/><div>The very first thing you notice about <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a> is the stylish box, made out of sturdy wood it would be just as suitable for a teenagers bedroom as it would be in the most stately of lounge rooms.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_00fe4050383f42e99b475c596cd8f53c~mv2.png"/><div><a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/"></a></div><div><a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a> is designed for a more mature game market. The team at Crown &amp; Andrews recommend it for ages 14 plus with a minimum of 4 players. Everything you need to play is included, right down to the 8 “putt putt golf” pencils, paper and of course <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a> Cards. 2 Giant packs of questions that will elicit side splitting responses.</div><div>To play is simple. One player is the designated reader as well as a player and the rest are players. The reader selects a random card and reads it aloud. Each card is a question such as:</div><div>Things you should keep to yourself?Things you wouldn’t do for all the money in the world?Things you dream about?</div><div>Thus the name, <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The game of Things</a>.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d358c3b7d6a14b1ab3c8953ac5cb251c~mv2.jpg"/><div>Once the card is read out, each player hands their response to the Reader who will then read out the responses. Each player then takes a turn at linking the response to the player. Points are awarded based upon the accuracy, or inaccuracy, as the case may be, of the answers.</div><div>The only requirement for your answer is that it is funny, it doesn’t have to be true, just funny, in fact, the more outrageous and out of character your answer is, the less likely that your competitors will guess it was you.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_270c19fa88d14f6f8f54d00d2da12bcb~mv2.jpg"/><div>We took <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a> to a dinner party recently where after a few wines, 6 adults and 1, 17 year old (no wine for him) played for 10 rounds which took us a little over an hour. One thing was certain, the guarantee of laughter is true. Some side splitting responses were revealed, and, if I am totally honest, some insights into our fellow diners personalities that were potentially best left unseen, were read aloud.</div><div>The only real problem we had was that each answer is handwritten, this gives the reader, who is also a player, the chance to recognise handwriting. After some discussion, and more wine, we decided to right in block letters to remove the problem, which, if we had looked a little closer at the instructions, is exactly what Crown and Andrews recommend. Alternatively, if you have enough players, you can designate the reader as a non player to remove the issue.</div><div>We all enjoyed <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/game-of-things/">The Game of Things</a> and had a great time playing the game. I should say though, it is probably not an easy game to play with younger kids, some of the questions and answers, whether real or imagined will be a challenge for the younger mind. Probably why Crown &amp; Andrews have designated it suitable for ages 14 plus.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Toy Universe exclusive range</title><description><![CDATA[The great people at www.toyuniverse.com.au have taken all the hard work out of finding the very best toys for your children, whether they are newborn or 10 years plus they have developed a range of products that are sure to tick a box for your child.The new Toy Universe range of products have been specifically selected to appeal to a wide range of children without breaking the bank.From STEM Toys like Marble Run in 78 or 100 pieces to outdoor action fun like Archery Sets and Bug Catchers, your]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/19/Toy-Universe-exclusive-range</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/19/Toy-Universe-exclusive-range</guid><pubDate>Mon, 19 Jun 2017 09:56:42 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_febc111171044b148268b6aabd6c01d6~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4f3d73955e624df6a17977706c382540~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ab454dd73a2349928825acddaa7acda5~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c47ec5c1bc7341e093d86d41043c2534~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e1a2f4362116433aac3cd35d7b69006e~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_7fbbd0376f44442cae661c26a44aa3c3~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_a183fb460d3b43b6b48e8424cc2d5b1c~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0777c1db5ffb4087ae6d4632a2b7b2b2~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_25f4bb8f80f94327a4acc24fefeeb5ac~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6b1b176c6b81475e8003aca8f0c85cb8~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5f0c5be585ac4ae0bb6999f02ed3bbe8~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_3cbc06459dc14978817bae6271161f0a~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e2363cd6bc73494398c08db3bef5c7c7~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c4c0b2cc554a4a92b123f215c539cd2a~mv2.jpg"/></div><div>The great people at www.toyuniverse.com.au have taken all the hard work out of finding the very best toys for your children, whether they are newborn or 10 years plus they have developed a range of products that are sure to tick a box for your child.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands?page=1">new Toy Universe range of products</a> have been specifically selected to appeal to a wide range of children without breaking the bank.</div><div>From STEM Toys like <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/marble-run-set-78-pieces">Marble Run in 78</a> or <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/marble-run-set-100-pieces">100 pieces</a> to outdoor action fun like <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_q=archery%20set&amp;findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0">Archery Sets</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/classic-bug-catcher">Bug Catchers</a>, your child will be kept occupied with these great toys.</div><div>With a new shipment having arrived just last week there are always a few favourites that we found especially impressive. One of our favourites was the<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/little-chef-kids-kitchen-with-lights-and-sounds">compact Toy Kitchen</a> and the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/electronic-toy-microwave">Microwave</a>, These products are really great and at prices that you will find very reasonable. With bright vibrant colours, lots of lights and sounds, your child will be entertained.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e2363cd6bc73494398c08db3bef5c7c7~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c4c0b2cc554a4a92b123f215c539cd2a~mv2.jpg"/><div>Don't forget the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/chef-dress-up-with-accessories">Chef's dress up set</a> as well to complete the ensemble.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_3cbc06459dc14978817bae6271161f0a~mv2.jpg"/><div>For the outdoor child, the range now includes a variety of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_q=dress%20up&amp;findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0">dress up kits</a>, like the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/army-weapons-set-with-lights-and-sounds">soldier</a>, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/firefighter-dress-up-with-helmet">firefighter</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/police-weapons-set-with-lights-and-sounds-toy">police officer</a> as well as a range of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_q=archery%20set&amp;findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0">Bow and Arrow toys</a>, Basketball hoops,<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/kids-tool-set-case-with-drill">tool kits</a> and even a <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/dinosaur-feet-stompers-kids-steppers">dinosaur footprint stompers</a> that will have your young palaeontologist looking for Dinosaur bones.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_25f4bb8f80f94327a4acc24fefeeb5ac~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6b1b176c6b81475e8003aca8f0c85cb8~mv2.jpg"/><div>If you are looking for indoor play toys, <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Universe</a> hasn’t forgotten about this important aspect of your Childs development with <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/toy-universe-brands/products/coffee-machine-toy-set-with-pretend-food">Tea sets</a>, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/inflatable-hop-bounce-crocodile-hopper-ball">Crocodile Hoppers</a> and Make up kits, High chairs for your childs doll collection and even <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/3-wheel-jogger-dolls-pram-in-pink">little jogger prams</a>.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_a183fb460d3b43b6b48e8424cc2d5b1c~mv2.jpg"/><div>If we had to pick two favourites it would be difficult, but we did love the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_q=big%20kids%20ride&amp;findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Btype%5D=text&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Bname%5D=brand&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Bvalues%5D%5B0%5D%5Bvalue%5D=Toy%20Universe%20Brands">Big Kids ride on diggers for toddlers</a>. They are just like ordinary ride ons you see in most children’s backyards but they have a digger attachment on the front. Simple, yet great for the child who loves yellow earthmovers.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e1a2f4362116433aac3cd35d7b69006e~mv2.jpg"/><div>But the clear winner for us was the unusual circus tent or indoor cubby. These are made of cardboard which is printed with a circus tent image in a black and white outline. The great twist with this is that your child can decorate the tent using Textas, Crayons or paints, set it up and play and then it fold flat for storage. Great if you have a small playroom as it can be reassembled very quickly. </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c47ec5c1bc7341e093d86d41043c2534~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_7fbbd0376f44442cae661c26a44aa3c3~mv2.jpg"/><div>Or was it the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_q=take%20apart&amp;findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Btype%5D=text&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Bname%5D=brand&amp;findify_filters%5B0%5D%5Bvalues%5D%5B0%5D%5Bvalue%5D=Toy%20Universe%20Brands">take apart toys with tools</a>? We really can't decide.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_febc111171044b148268b6aabd6c01d6~mv2.jpg"/><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_ab454dd73a2349928825acddaa7acda5~mv2.jpg"/><div>We really liked all the products in the Toy Universe Exclusive range and we are pretty sure you will find something for your child to love, that won’t break the bank. Toy Universe also offers all their toys on Afterpay, Oxipay and ZipPay to make life that little bit easier and with fast flat rate shipping, you know exactly what it will cost without any nasty surprises.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Yeti in My Spaghetti - Side Splitting Fun</title><description><![CDATA[The question of whether Yeti’s exist has vexed scientists for years, despite numerous sightings being reported, do they really exist.Well where convinced they do, and we have seen them in our spaghetti, that’s right, there is a Yeti in my Spaghetti! Of course, not literally, but in the fun new board game from Goliath and Big W appropriately named “Yeti in my Spaghetti”.which was the Game of the Year at the 2017 Toy Awards.Yeti in my Spaghetti is a fun game for 2 or more players aged 4 and up<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_3f0eff74fd2f4c0aadf12780f382a91f%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_286%2Ch_301/777202_3f0eff74fd2f4c0aadf12780f382a91f%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/16/Yeti-in-My-Spaghetti---Side-Splitting-Fun</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/16/Yeti-in-My-Spaghetti---Side-Splitting-Fun</guid><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jun 2017 05:17:48 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The question of whether Yeti’s exist has vexed scientists for years, despite numerous sightings being reported, do they really exist.</div><div>Well where convinced they do, and we have seen them in our spaghetti, that’s right, there is a <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Yeti in my Spaghetti!</a> Of course, not literally, but in the fun new board game from Goliath and <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Big W</a> appropriately named “<a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Yeti in my Spaghetti</a>”.which was the Game of the Year at the 2017 Toy Awards.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_3f0eff74fd2f4c0aadf12780f382a91f~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Yeti in my Spaghetti</a> is a fun game for 2 or more players aged 4 and up that is sure to be a smash with your children. Each pack includes a bowl, plastic spaghetti sticks and of course, The Yeti for your Spaghetti.</div><div>To play this game is simple, take the bowl, spread the spaghetti across the top rim of the bowl and then, ever so carefully, lay or stand your Yeti across the spaghetti. Now the real fun begins. Each player takes turn in removing a stick of spaghetti, one piece at a time. If the Yeti stays out of the Spaghetti, your safe and the next player takes their turn but if the Yeti drops, its game over and the last player to remove the spaghetti without dropping the Yeti is the winner.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_730b256b9d8842abae5f5d2f8176c203~mv2.jpg"/><div>I played this game with 6 year old Emily. To be honest it is difficult to know who had the most fun. This is truly a game that will be as much fun for adults to play as it is for kids. For added fun Emily decided to fill the bowl with water, it certainly added to the fun but in hindsight might have been better tackled outside rather than the carpet. Lesson learnt.</div><div>With about 30 pieces of spaghetti, there were a few easy pickings, but before long the suspense started to build and brows furrowed as each piece of spaghetti was painstakingly analysed before attempting its removal. A small happy dance from Emily with each successful removal brought a new wave of fear to me as we got down to the last 6 pieces of spaghetti.</div><div>Would I be the one to drop a <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Yeti in my Spaghetti</a>?</div><div>With each touch, the Yeti wobbled unceremoniously threatening to drop.</div><div>As I started to remove the one of the last 6 pieces, I am almost certain our Yeti winked at me before falling face first into the bowl. Squeals of laughter and celebrations filled the room as Emily took full advantage of her win before declaring she wanted to play again. A sure fire sign of a good game.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_397ffec9d8664d04bd5c9bf65a01aa86~mv2.jpg"/><div>Yeti in my Spaghetti is the brainchild of Goliath Games who have a great range of kids games on offer. <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Yeti in my Spaghetti</a> is available exclusively through <a href="https://www.bigw.com.au/product/yeti-in-my-spaghetti/p/WCC100000000460147/">Big W</a>.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Travel Games for Fun and Education with FREE app.</title><description><![CDATA[Whether you are travelling for 24 hours to Europe, camping for the weekend or just driving across town to see Grandma, parents are constantly battling to keep their children entertained and happy as boredom sets in quickly, especially if the tablets are out of range or worse, out of charge.Whilst you recharge the Android or Apple tablet, the range of games from Shuffle Cards is the perfect solution for child entertainment when travelling. No Batteries, No Screen and a convenient carry case that<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9d350cf4f8e1495e97305a7f65dc8ab8%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_286%2Ch_286/777202_9d350cf4f8e1495e97305a7f65dc8ab8%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/13/Travel-Games-for-Fun-and-Education-with-FREE-app</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/13/Travel-Games-for-Fun-and-Education-with-FREE-app</guid><pubDate>Tue, 13 Jun 2017 01:22:47 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Whether you are travelling for 24 hours to Europe, camping for the weekend or just driving across town to see Grandma, parents are constantly battling to keep their children entertained and happy as boredom sets in quickly, especially if the tablets are out of range or worse, out of charge.</div><div>Whilst you recharge the Android or Apple tablet, the range of games from Shuffle Cards is the perfect solution for child entertainment when travelling. No Batteries, No Screen and a convenient carry case that is roughly 3cm deep and 10cm x 5cm, easily small enough to fit a few in the glove box in case of emergency.</div><div>The two options we have today are the traditional fun games of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a> and <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/boggle-slam/">Boggle Slam</a>. Both are suitable for 2 – 4 players and take about 15 minutes per game, depending on the number of players. With 4 players, we found this was closer to 30 minutes. <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a> is recommended for ages 4 plus and the <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/boggle-slam/">Boggle Slam</a> is ages 8 plus.</div><div>Both games have traditional names that we all know and love, but the team at Shuffle Cards have modified the games to make them easy to play in a confined space like a tent, car or plane, so you will need to familiarise yourself with the simple changes by reading the clear instructions or watching the easy to follow quick start video.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9d350cf4f8e1495e97305a7f65dc8ab8~mv2.jpg"/><div>The aim of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a> and <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/boggle-slam/">Boggle Slam</a> is the same as the traditional games, with <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a>, acquire property and wealth and with <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/boggle-slam/">Boggle Slam</a>, Spell 4 letter words and be the first to use all of your cards.</div><div>We recently had a 90 minute drive across town that had all the hallmarks of a nightmare when both Emily and Ben had forgotten to charge their tablets, not that it would have helped much as the signal is intermittent at best where we were heading so the beloved Netflix were going to be problematic at best.</div><div>At 8 and 10 respectively, Ben and Emily were familiar with the games, and after we went through the subtle changes to the rules to make them a travel friendly game we set off playing <a href="http://www.crownandandrews.com/product/boggle-slam/">Boggle Slam</a>. Emily and I teamed up because, in his words, Ben “knows all the spelling.” Boggle is simple, the first player to get rid of all their cards by spelling 4 letter words, using at least one card from the previous word, wins. As a parent this game ticks a few boxes, it’s educational, portable and fun. I watched as Emily took my hints and sounded out words, trying to master her spelling from the phonetic sounds. Not surprisingly Ben was able to win, disposing of his last card when Emily still had 2 remaining.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_bb81ff02cf1341f6b69eeee7cf1d918e~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a> is a different game altogether. It does focus a little more on strategy and teaches children about numbers, money and counting. But mostly it is just fun.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopoly</a> game is also slightly different from the full board game but it is just as fun. There are 3 types of cards in each pack, Token Cards (just like the tokens in full size Monopoly), Money Cards and Property Cards. Just like the full size Monopoly, the aim is to collect properties, extract rent and amass a fortune. Property plus fortune equals winner.</div><div>We played <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/shuffle-monopoly-junior-card-game-and-free-digital-app">Monopol</a>y for almost half an hour and everyone had fun, there were a few ultra-competitive moments but all in all, everyone had a great time and before we knew it we were only 20 minutes from our destination, without a single whine coming from the back seat.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_15f1a381fc1648498ffacbc06adfa666~mv2.jpg"/><div>Now the tablets were charged, and we were back in signal so I quickly downloaded the free App (on Google Play and the iTunes Store) by searching Shuffle Cards, now Ben and Emily can access extended play versions on their tablets to further enhance these games. The App is also where you will find the Quick Launch Video so you might want to download this first.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x-W49_c7Pgk"/><div>The travel range of games from Shuffle Cards are the perfect answer to keeping children happy when travelling or just hanging out in the park or camping, wherever. The games a simplified and quick to play to avoid boredom and keep the children happy and the free Apps expand the value so much further. We loved reviewing the Shuffle Cards range and we are sure they will add another weapon to your arsenal when fighting child travel boredom.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Squawk, the Egg-Splosive Chicken Game will have your kids Egg-Sploding with laughter</title><description><![CDATA[There is something about the family game night, especially on a cold winters night, with the crackling fire, maybe a few marshmallows and the sounds of excitement and laughter mixed with a little bit of friendly competition and you have the perfect setting for a night of family fun.Goliath Games and Crown and Andrews have long been the leaders in fun family orientated games that are as entertaining for young and young at heart alike and the latest game, Squawk, the Egg-Splosive Chicken Game is<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/bDe34cNN-94/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/07/Squawk-the-Egg-Splosive-Chicken-Game-will-have-your-kids-Egg-Sploding-with-laughter</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/06/07/Squawk-the-Egg-Splosive-Chicken-Game-will-have-your-kids-Egg-Sploding-with-laughter</guid><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jun 2017 08:02:07 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>There is something about the family game night, especially on a cold winters night, with the crackling fire, maybe a few marshmallows and the sounds of excitement and laughter mixed with a little bit of friendly competition and you have the perfect setting for a night of family fun.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bDe34cNN-94"/><div>Goliath Games and Crown and Andrews have long been the leaders in fun family orientated games that are as entertaining for young and young at heart alike and the latest game, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/squawk-the-eggsploding-chicken-game">Squawk, the Egg-Splosive Chicken Game</a> is no exception that will quickly become a family favourite.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/squawk-the-eggsploding-chicken-game">Squawk</a> does require some adult assembly, but the clear instructions, with pictures, make it super simple. To be honest, most children could probably assemble a large portion themselves and younger children can help with stickers and egg assembly. <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/squawk-the-eggsploding-chicken-game">Squawk</a> is designed for 2 – 4 players aged 4 plus. There are some parts that are on the smaller side, which should be fine for age 4 plus but any younger kids should always be well supervised. <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/squawk-the-eggsploding-chicken-game">Squawk</a>requires no batteries and is a well built sturdy little game as you would expect from the market leader Goliath.</div><div>We loved the animated features of the chicken, the surprise, captured in her facial expression is exactly what you would expect from a cartoon style chicken and the bright yellow colours and humorous “Squawk” sound really added to the comical fun of the game.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_647fcb038df14731b166a35dee31cb09~mv2.jpg"/><div>The aim of Squawk is simple, the player who collects the most chicks wins and with only 6 chicks to collect the race is on from the very first roll of the dice.</div><div>To play, you lock the chicken in her hen house and start with the youngest player. The player rolls the dice and pushes the chicken's chest the number of times shown on the dice. Squawk, Squawk, Squawk. If nothing happens, the next player rolls, but if the chicken lays an egg, it will roll out the back of the coop. The player then cracks open the egg, allowing the contents to fall on the table or floor. If the egg lands chick side up the player collects one of six chick tokens and is on their way to victory, if however, the token lands egg side up, you’re out of luck. It’s time to reload the chicken coop and let the next player take a turn.</div><div>We managed to assemble the Squawk game in under 5 minutes, with some help from John aged 5 and Kate aged 6 and then explained to them the rules. Before long John and Kate had the Chicken Squawking away as they counted alongside each other the number of presses of the chicken's chest and nervously anticipated the pop of the coop and delivery of the eagerly anticipated egg. Our game lasted about 20 minutes and neither child showed any signs of being bored. Ultimately it seems, I am not very good at collecting chicks with only one whereas Kate had 3 and John had 2. In a sure sign of a great game, John and Kate set it up again for a second game on their own.</div><div>Goliath have really hit on a winning formula with their recent releases of games designed for younger children like <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/squawk-the-eggsploding-chicken-game">Squawk</a>, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/pop-the-pig-game">Pop the Pig</a> and<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/catch-the-fox-game">Catch the Fox</a> and we think you and your child will really enjoy any of them, or perhaps all of them? Just don’t forget the Marshmallows!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Flower Fairies Secret Garden Toys bring fairy magic into your home</title><description><![CDATA[For as long as anyone can remember fairies have held a magical spell over young children, whether it is the Fairy Godmother of Nursery Rhyme fame, the Tooth Fairy or the Fairy Door lovingly set up by your child, these mystical and mythical creatures have roamed through our children's lives for generations.As stories would have it, fairies live down the bottom of the garden, going about their task of creating magic and surprise for any child who is prepared to believe!But do they? Well we can<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_8c6ad93a3b334b31b913c02e73932c1b%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_467%2Ch_203/777202_8c6ad93a3b334b31b913c02e73932c1b%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/18/Flower-Fairies-Secret-Garden-Toys-bring-fairy-magic-into-your-home</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/18/Flower-Fairies-Secret-Garden-Toys-bring-fairy-magic-into-your-home</guid><pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2017 21:48:40 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_8c6ad93a3b334b31b913c02e73932c1b~mv2.jpg"/><div>For as long as anyone can remember fairies have held a magical spell over young children, whether it is the Fairy Godmother of Nursery Rhyme fame, the Tooth Fairy or the Fairy Door lovingly set up by your child, these mystical and mythical creatures have roamed through our children's lives for generations.</div><div>As stories would have it, fairies live down the bottom of the garden, going about their task of creating magic and surprise for any child who is prepared to believe!</div><div>But do they?</div><div> Well we can confirm they do!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_236b8fdd902b42788a29b6625bf70455~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/flower-fairies">The Flower Fairies</a>live in a secret Garden at the bottom of the garden, whether it be a pot plant or a hundred acre farm your child can now enjoy the delights of their very own Flower Fairy Secret Garden.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/flower-fairies">The Flower Fairies</a> Secret Garden are a great new range for the fairy dreamer in your family. Made from sturdy plastic these delightful little creatures can live in their own secret garden or you can let them live in your very own garden to delight and fascinate the little Fairy Dreamer. <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/flower-fairies">The Flower Fairies</a>have 4 different fairies named after their favourite garden plants like Buttercup, Daisy, Strawberry, Rose and Lavender.</div><div>The Secret Garden range also has everything your fairy will need to</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_fb45198008ca45259a4ea51c7469e48a~mv2.jpg"/><div>set up a magical home, with a letterbox for mail, stepping stones to keep their feet clean and trees and signposts so they feel right at home, your flower fairy world will be full of intrigue and magic from the very first moment.</div><div>Even if you don’t have a garden that is magical enough for the fairies, the Flower Fairies are perfect or your fairy lover with their very own Garden Kits in Yellow or Pink, the perfect accessory for outside the Fairy Door in your child’s room. The green moss in the plastic garden can be removed and replaced with dirt to grow a lush little garden for the Magical Fairies.</div><div>The beauty of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/flower-fairies">the Flower Fairies</a>is not just in their delightful bright colours or their cute little stature, at about 7cm tall, it is a world waiting to be explored by your child. The Flower Fairies series of books, which feature each of the Flower Fairy characters, is a magical world for your child to enter and grow the love of reading to a whole new level as their real world Flower Fairies and their garden meets the fiction of the spectacular poetry</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_258a118c6b4246c9a6583326c7b7beb3~mv2.jpg"/><div>and illustrations of the 1927 book by Cicely Mary Barker.</div><div>My own daughter has had the Flower Fairy book since she was young, if I remember rightly, it was gift from her Grandmother, the illustrations are amazing, and the poems capture the essence of the imaginary world of fairies and the Flower Fairies Secret Garden range brings those illustrations to life in an enchanted world every child will love.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Roll Patrol, The new Paw Patrol Track Sets.</title><description><![CDATA[Paw Patrol would have to be one of the most loved TV series for this generation of youngsters and the toys that are created by Spinmaster are a great way for children to expand their imaginations with their favourite characters by creating adventures that only Paw Patrol can save.The latest version of the Paw Patrol range of toys, Paw Patrol Roll Patrol, has hit the shelves in Australia and we took a look at the range. The Paw Patrol Roll Patrol are a series of toys that are set on a track in<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e8e35415d27e431182dd946b27027351%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_286%2Ch_286/777202_e8e35415d27e431182dd946b27027351%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/09/Roll-Patrol-The-new-Paw-Patrol-Track-Sets</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/09/Roll-Patrol-The-new-Paw-Patrol-Track-Sets</guid><pubDate>Tue, 09 May 2017 04:01:29 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Paw Patrol would have to be one of the most loved TV series for this generation of youngsters and the toys that are created by Spinmaster are a great way for children to expand their imaginations with their favourite characters by creating adventures that only Paw Patrol can save.</div><div>The latest version of the Paw Patrol range of toys, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol</a>, has hit the shelves in Australia and we took a look at the range. The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol</a> are a series of toys that are set on a track in what is known as Adventure Bay. Each set includes a number of pieces of track, a Paw Patrol Mini Figure and another Mini Figure (often an animal) as well as a Racer and each set includes its own “trouble spot” where someone or something is going to need rescuing from by our intrepid Paw Patrol character.</div><div>The great thing about the<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol range</a> is that it is easily expanded as your child collects more and more of the Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Racers and tracks as each are compatible with each other enabling your child to expand their imagination and play well beyond the television series.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol</a> is available in Australia in 5 different sets that include:</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/paw-patrol-roll-patrol-zumas-lighthouse-rescue-track-set">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Skye &amp; Zuma's Lighthouse Rescue Track Set</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e8e35415d27e431182dd946b27027351~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/paw-patrol-roll-patrol-adventure-bay-railway-set">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Adventure Bay Railway Track Set</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_f92ed7364606481cb5ba00fb6db497bb~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/paw-patrol-roll-patrol-marshalls-kitty-rescue-set">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Marshall's Kitty Rescue Set</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_076ea7f8954746d982b2918a06054f40~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/paw-patrol-roll-patrol-starter-set-rockys-barn-rescue">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Starter Set Rocky's Barn Rescue</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d32bb84b67094487b556ce459e027178~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/paw-patrol-roll-patrol-launch-n-roll-lookout-set">Paw Patrol Launch N Roll Lookout Set</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0f35b213c84449bd90a0779ad3b9c7c6~mv2.jpg"/><div>Miss Emily (6) and I got our hands on 2 of the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol</a> sets, the Launch N Roll Lookout set and the Skye and Zuma’s Lighthouse Rescue Track set and we have to admit to being pretty impressed by these toys, both of which came with everything you need to get started (including easy to follow instructions) and were compatible with each other if you wanted to join them together to expand your version of Adventure Bay.</div><div>The Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Skye &amp; Zuma Lighthouse Track Set is one of the more advanced sets and is impressive in its scale and size. Once assembled Emily had Skye flying around the lighthouse on the motorised arm looking out for trouble in Adventure Bay. Once Skye spotted Wally the Walrus, Emily set about launching Zuma into his hovercraft to save Wally from his trap in the net. After an almost flawless rescue Wally was set free to paddle the waters of Adventure Bay again.</div><div>The Paw Patrol Launch N Roll Lookout Set was equally impressive in its size and scale and is especially good for the Paw Patrol Racer enthusiast. With its Hilly bridge, the Racers need all the power they can muster to get over the hump. Luckily the Garage features room for up to 6 Racers and with the twist and push of the periscope the launcher provides plenty of power to climb over the top of the bridge before racing down the other side.</div><div>Any child who loves Paw Patrol will love the new range of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Track Sets</a>, there is even a railway track set for the train aficionado in your family.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WTBC6XluvXI"/><div>We know how much kids love Paw Patrol and we think the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=roll%20patrol">Paw Patrol Roll Patrol Track Sets</a> are the start of great adventures for your child and the Paw Patrol Gang. Emily gave the range a 4 ½ out of 5 and we tend to agree.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Your chance to win $1000 in the 2017 ORIAS Awards</title><description><![CDATA[The 2017 ORIAS awards are back celebrating excellence in online retailing.This year we are supporting www.toyuniverse.com.au in their bid to re assert their title as the No 1 online toy retailer. With their new website, great prices and huge range together with extra fast shipping options we can't think of a better store for your vote.Click on the image below to cast your vote or click here.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4a5bb1c2adff4881bfaac55ebd812fcb%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/04/Your-chance-to-win-1000-in-the-2017-ORIAS-Awards</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/04/Your-chance-to-win-1000-in-the-2017-ORIAS-Awards</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 May 2017 23:32:47 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The 2017 ORIAS awards are back celebrating excellence in online retailing.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_4a5bb1c2adff4881bfaac55ebd812fcb~mv2.jpg"/><div>This year we are supporting www.toyuniverse.com.au in their bid to re assert their title as the No 1 online toy retailer. With their new website, great prices and huge range together with extra fast shipping options we can't think of a better store for your vote.</div><div>Click on the image below to cast your vote or click <a href="https://www.startrack.com.au/peopleschoice/#!ToyUniverse">here</a>.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_2848f5cbd56246708a2fcea35537e00c~mv2.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Build a robot with Build a Bots</title><description><![CDATA[The latest buzzword in educational toys is S.T.E.M. or Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. With the future looking more and more focused than ever on science and technology as key drivers in education and careers it has never been more important to introduce your child to the wonders and possibilities of S.T.E.M.Toy Makers are designing more and more toys with this future in mind with children as young as 3 beginning to be exposed to toys that stimulate S.T.E.M. learning in a fun<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9552a928ce624052a4091ee41a3aaa61%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/01/Build-a-robot-with-Build-a-Bots</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/05/01/Build-a-robot-with-Build-a-Bots</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 May 2017 08:51:28 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The latest buzzword in educational toys is S.T.E.M. or Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. With the future looking more and more focused than ever on science and technology as key drivers in education and careers it has never been more important to introduce your child to the wonders and possibilities of S.T.E.M.</div><div>Toy Makers are designing more and more toys with this future in mind with children as young as 3 beginning to be exposed to toys that stimulate S.T.E.M. learning in a fun and creative manner with toys like the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/fisher-price-think-and-learn-code-a-pillar">Fisher Price Code-a-pillar</a> for younger children and the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/build-a-bot">Build a Bot</a> range is one of the most popular combinations of robotics and construction in the S.T.E.M. category for ages 5 plus.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/build-a-bot">build-a-bot</a> range in Australia is 3 Bots that are each sold separately. They include the Build a Bot Bunny, Fox and Dino which are brightly coloured Pink, Orange and Blue respectively.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9552a928ce624052a4091ee41a3aaa61~mv2.jpg"/><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/build-a-bot">Build a Bot</a> range comes in brightly coloured packaging with great pictures and instructions on what the finished product will look like and the actions it will perform. Each kit has easy to follow instructions. Each Bot kit consists of approximately 20 pieces that need to be assembled in order around the motorised core of the Bot which is a one piece unit. Each piece is numbered to make it super easy to assemble correctly, each part simply clicks firmly together with no tools (other than a small screwdriver for the retaining screw on the battery cover – 2 x AA batteries are required) or glue required.</div><div>Check out just how easy it is to assemble in this great video</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nElsc_f-jEM"/><div>Once assembled, you then get to personalise your Bot with a range of eyes and stickers to give them the character you want and food for your Bot like a carrot for the rabbit and a bone for the fox. Once you have finished assembling your Bot, you have your very own personal robot that will perform to your commands.</div><div>Switch on your Bot using the switch on the chest and a red light will activate showing that your Bot is ready to accept your command. Your assembled Bot is now ready to move on your command under its own power, tap the tail up and your Bot will take 9 steps forward, hold food in front of its mouth and he will chase it trying to wrap its lips around the tasty morsel.</div><div>Our Junior Toy Tester was Miss Emily who is 6 years old. She chose the Pink Bunny, and with a minimal of assistance had the Bot assembled in around 30 minutes. Emily tells me it was “easy peasy!” to put together. She did need a little help with reading the instructions but the numbered pieces did indeed seem to make it “Easy Peasy!” Playing with the Bot was intriguing and it followed her for food repeatedly throughout the afternoon much to her delight.</div><div>The technology of the world has come along way in the last ten years and by all predictions will make huge leaps over the next ten years and beyond. Where our children will be employed in the future probably hasn’t been invented yet but it seems inevitable it will involve technology in one way or another so it makes sense to give your child a head start in this exciting new world by looking at S.T.E.M. toys and we think the Build a Bot range is a great stepping stone in that learning process.</div><div>We gave the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/build-a-bot">Build a Bot</a> 4 stars as a construction and S.T.E.M. toy.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Imagination is the mother of all invention - start them early.</title><description><![CDATA[Without imagination nothing would be possible so start your children early with this great Fairy Door range from www.toyuniverse.com.au. You can check out our review of Irish Fairy Doors here!<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_8272a4214d5d443d8624a47e001a6a49%7Emv2_d_3988_3988_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_286%2Ch_286/777202_8272a4214d5d443d8624a47e001a6a49%7Emv2_d_3988_3988_s_4_2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>www.toyuniverse.com.au</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/30/Imagination-is-the-mother-of-all-invention---start-them-early</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/30/Imagination-is-the-mother-of-all-invention---start-them-early</guid><pubDate>Sun, 30 Apr 2017 02:38:08 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Without imagination nothing would be possible so start your children early with this great Fairy Door range from <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">www.toyuniverse.com.au.</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_8272a4214d5d443d8624a47e001a6a49~mv2_d_3988_3988_s_4_2.jpg"/><div><a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">You can check out our review of Irish Fairy Doors</a><a href="https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/09/Irish-Fairy-Doors---A-door-to-your-childs-imagination">here!</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Scoot &amp; Ride Scooter Bike, a design revolution!</title><description><![CDATA[When you have a young family you need to make sure that every dollar you spend provides value for money and with kids growing up so fast that is not always the way it works out. The Austrian Designed Scoot & Ride changes all that with its revolutionary balance bikes/scooters range that are suitable for ages 12 months plus right through until they reach 50 Kilograms and are now available in Australia.The Scoot and Ride range in Australia comes in 2 different designs, the Highwaykick 1 and the<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_797ab89f443f4311a2866ae924d082ac%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/28/Scoot-Ride-Scooter-Bike-a-design-revolution</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/28/Scoot-Ride-Scooter-Bike-a-design-revolution</guid><pubDate>Fri, 28 Apr 2017 00:55:33 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>When you have a young family you need to make sure that every dollar you spend provides value for money and with kids growing up so fast that is not always the way it works out. The Austrian Designed <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot &amp; Ride</a> changes all that with its revolutionary balance bikes/scooters range that are suitable for ages 12 months plus right through until they reach 50 Kilograms and are now available in Australia.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot and Ride</a> range in Australia comes in 2 different designs, the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaykick">Highwaykick 1</a> and the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaybaby">Highwaybaby Plus</a> and both incorporate the same revolutionary design features that make them exciting and fun for kids to ride as they grow from toddlers into young children.</div><div>Check out the concept in this video showing the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaykick">Highwaykick 1</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_797ab89f443f4311a2866ae924d082ac~mv2.jpg"/><div>The concept of the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot and Ride</a> is revolutionary yet simple, they could best be described as the transformers of the Balance Bike / Scooter world. In a few seconds the Balance Bike can be transformed to a scooter and when the little legs get tired, back again to a balance bike, no tools, no mess and no fuss just a great design concept at work. Not only that but the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot &amp; Ride</a> comes fully assembled ready to ride. The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot &amp; Ride</a> range easily fit in the back of almost any car and are lightweight and easy to lift for parents.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fD0AlDCqPIc"/><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot &amp; Ride</a> range is available in two designs. The first, the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaykick">Highway Kick 1</a> is available in bright <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/scoot-ride-highwaykick-1-ride-on-scooter-pink">Pink</a> or <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/scoot-ride-highwaykick-1-ride-on-scooter-blue">Blue</a> colours and features a reverse tricycle type set up with 2 larger front wheels and a smaller scooter sized wheel at the back. The Highway Kick 1 also features a stopper at the front just in case your child goes into long grass or soft ground and the bike/scooter tries to flip forward, it will be stopped by the stopper. A great safety addition for your young adventurer.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_88f9d118f71c4ff89158608080cd40c2~mv2.jpg"/><div>The second design is the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaybaby">Highway Baby plus</a> design, The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaybaby">Highway Baby</a>features a larger single front wheel and a smaller back wheel is available in a two tone <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/scoot-ride-highway-baby-plus-ride-on-scooter-blue">Blue/orange</a> or a <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/products/scoot-ride-highway-baby-plus-ride-on-scooter-pink">Pink/yellow</a> colour scheme. This model does not feature the stopper on the front, but the larger front wheel negates the need for this in all but the most extreme cases.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_acb3c3b0ae484aeb98f5268aa76d5d47~mv2.jpg"/><div>All of the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot &amp; Ride</a> range feature solid rubber tyres, adjustable seat heights (in balance bike mode) and adjustable handlebar heights to grow with your child.</div><div>We tested out the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pages/search-results?findify_limit=24&amp;findify_offset=0&amp;findify_q=highwaykick">Highway Kick 1</a> on the kids’ bike track at our local park with our helmeted Miss Jasmine aged 3. What can we say but she loved it, scootering just like her big brother before tiring herself out and riding around chasing her big brother, it was a fun afternoon of outdoor play, so much so that Miss Jasmine was reluctant to leave which she demonstrated as only a 3 year old could!</div><div>We love the fact that the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/collections/scoot-ride">Scoot and Ride</a> company has thought outside the box and developed a great toy that will not only suit your young child but continue to be practical and fun as they grow. We gave the Scoot and Ride our top 5 Star Rating, and we are not the only ones who thinks this toy is something special winning the prestigious Red Dot Design Award in 2014, the Toy Award in 2015 and the Tillywig Toy Awards – Stirling Toy Award.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_381e593bd843478f9587c276c1208560~mv2.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Toy Universe launches a great new website</title><description><![CDATA[www.toyuniverse.com.au has launched its brand new state of the art website. You still get a great range of toys at great prices with excellent customer service through Live Chat and even a telephone number (1300 961747) but now they offer so much more including1) Overnight Delivery (limited locations).2) State of the art tracking using email or facebook.3) Notify me when back in stock for items that are temporarily out of stock.4) A sleek new look with a great search function.5) Gift Wrapping.6)<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9842787a4ae14e7989116390f2c1de5b%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/17/Toy-Universe-launches-a-great-new-website</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/04/17/Toy-Universe-launches-a-great-new-website</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Apr 2017 23:42:21 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">www.toyuniverse.com.au</a> has launched its brand new state of the art website. You still get a great range of toys at great prices with excellent customer service through Live Chat and even a telephone number (1300 961747) but now they offer so much more including</div><div>1) Overnight Delivery (limited locations).</div><div>2) State of the art tracking using email or facebook.</div><div>3) Notify me when back in stock for items that are temporarily out of stock.</div><div>4) A sleek new look with a great search function.</div><div>5) Gift Wrapping.</div><div>6) Exclusive range of Toy Universe brand products.</div><div>7) A wishlist to share with friends and family.</div><div>8) Great modern look and feel.</div><div>And much more!</div><div>To celebrate the launch of their new website <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">www.toyuniverse.com.au</a> is offering 5% off all orders using the code &quot;my5sale&quot; from 17/4/17 - 30/4/17.</div><div>We can see why www.toyuniverse.com.au is Australia's No 1 online Toy Store and with their new website we are sure you will as well.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_9842787a4ae14e7989116390f2c1de5b~mv2.jpg"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Another Great Contest from Fisher Price</title><description><![CDATA[WIN a trip to the USA! Check out the latest from Fisher PriceWIN a family trip to the Fisher-Price Play Lab headquarters in the USA, if we hire your child as our Top Toy Tester. To win, apply now at http://bit.ly/fptoptoytester<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_717fd324cec04258abd45566060692eb%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/27/Another-Great-Contest-from-Fisher-Price</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/27/Another-Great-Contest-from-Fisher-Price</guid><pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2017 03:33:34 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_717fd324cec04258abd45566060692eb~mv2.jpg"/><div>WIN a trip to the USA! Check out the latest from Fisher Price</div><div>WIN a family trip to the Fisher-Price Play Lab headquarters in the USA, if we hire your child as our Top Toy Tester. To win, apply now at <a href="http://bit.ly/fptoptoytester">http://bit.ly/fptoptoytester</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Catch The Fox - a fun game for the whole family</title><description><![CDATA[Catch the Fox is a fun suspenseful game that will appeal to young and old players alike. It focuses on good clean fun and number skills and we are sure that all ages will really get a kick out of rescuing the chickens from the clutches of the wiley old fox.Fresh from 2016 Game of the Year at Paris Toy Fair and Best New Game at the London Toy Fair we couldn't wait to get a look at this one.We gave Catch the Fox 4 stars not because of the game itself which we would have given 5 stars but the<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_97a34ead0b7344f99164df6af9aa2dd9%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/21/Catch-The-Fox---a-fun-game-for-the-whole-family</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/21/Catch-The-Fox---a-fun-game-for-the-whole-family</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2017 08:10:00 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/">Catch the Fox</a> is a fun suspenseful game that will appeal to young and old players alike. It focuses on good clean fun and number skills and we are sure that all ages will really get a kick out of rescuing the chickens from the clutches of the wiley old fox.</div><div>Fresh from 2016 Game of the Year at Paris Toy Fair and Best New Game at the London Toy Fair we couldn't wait to get a look at this one.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_97a34ead0b7344f99164df6af9aa2dd9~mv2.jpg"/><div>We gave <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/">Catch the Fox</a> 4 stars not because of the game itself which we would have given 5 stars but the assembling of chickens was a little frustrating, only needs to be done once though.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/"></a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e3af2774a5c2465ba3cca1e7f3065b24~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/"></a></div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/">Catch the Fox</a> is from Goliath Toys and is designed for ages 4 plus with 2 – 4 players. It is a game that will appeal to a wide range of ages and really crosses the barrier between the younger and older family members making it great to play with families and siblings.</div><div>The good news for parents is there are no batteries required!</div><div>The not so good news is there is some simple, but slightly fiddly assembly required. Like all Goliath Games, you must stick the numbers onto the dice, each chicken needs it’s two parts assembled and there are some stickers to place on Mr Fox. The instructions are clear and simple and really, your child will probably enjoy putting it together more than you anyway. Another thing that parents should be aware of is that the chickens are small, about the size of a Jaffa (when assembled) so keep an eye on the younger kids if they like putting things in their mouth.</div><div>Once assembled this game is super fun.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_16b19e6fc05c4118bcd78e486638359a~mv2.jpg"/><div>First, you lift Mr Fox and pull his pants out from inside his legs and slide them up his legs until he looks like he is wearing pants (as opposed to his Blue Chicken Underwear), lift his arms slightly and Mr Fox is ready to rumble. Each player is given a chicken coop player card with 5 holes for chickens and the first player to save 5 chickens and fill their coop is the winner.</div><div>Once it’s time to play, each player must make a chicken sound, the best chicken sound goes first with a roll of the die. The number that appears is the number of chickens that must be placed in Mr Fox’s pants pockets. The player then pushes down on Mr Fox’s head the same number of times.</div><div>Each time a player pushes on Mr Fox’s head there is a chance Mr Fox can lose all his chickens as his pants retract spilling chickens all over the table. This is where the battle begins with each player scrambling to secure the chickens into their coop. Once all the chickens from Mr Fox have found their way safely back to their coops, the next player takes a turn until one player has successfully filled their coop with 5 chickens and is declared the winner.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_97a34ead0b7344f99164df6af9aa2dd9~mv2.jpg"/><div>I played the game with our local “Gang” of 6-year-olds from the neighbourhood. After explaining it to them they kicked me out and the 4 of them got to work trying to <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/">Catch the Fox</a> whilst I was sent to secure snacks.</div><div>Each child made the obligatory chicken sounds and Toby took the first turn, Underwear seems to really make children of a certain age laugh and when Mr Fox was reduced to his the laughter was abundant followed by a mad scramble to secure the 4 chickens that now rolled around the table. Pants were reset and the gang got underway on the next round. The first game got 5 rounds before a full coop was secured and Charlie declared the winner.</div><div>The gang played for just over another hour before they were sent home for dinner having declared the game awesome, unreal and fun a sentiment we agreed with having watched them smile and laugh the whole time. The only real dispute was over who had the best chicken impersonation.</div><div>I know our gang had a great time with <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/catch-the-fox-game/">Catch the Fox</a> and it’s not hard to see this becoming a modern classic.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ymV3HVVqi8Y"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Stuff him full of burgers and Pop The Pig!</title><description><![CDATA[Pop the pig is a great game for up to 6 players aged 4 and up with suspense, drama and a little education thrown in for good measure. We gave Pop the Pig 4 ½ stars and it is easy to see why it has been in the top 5 games in the USA for the last 3 years.The new model Pop the Pig features a few styling changes such as a new blue box and solid blue pants but is still the same great fun.Pop the Pig is made of a mixture of hard and soft plastics and the box contains The Pig (ours had solid blue pants<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5735d771894249c19d7c10b8cbc2cbe6%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/21/Stuff-him-full-of-burgers-and-Pop-The-Pig</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/21/Stuff-him-full-of-burgers-and-Pop-The-Pig</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2017 00:55:31 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the pig</a> is a great game for up to 6 players aged 4 and up with suspense, drama and a little education thrown in for good measure. We gave<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> 4 ½ stars </div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_e3af2774a5c2465ba3cca1e7f3065b24~mv2.jpg"/><div>and it is easy to see why it has been in the top 5 games in the USA for the last 3 years.</div><div>The new model <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> features a few styling changes such as a new blue box and solid blue pants but is still the same great fun.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> is made of a mixture of hard and soft plastics and the box contains The Pig (ours had solid blue pants as shown in the second photo, rather than check blue and white seen on the box), 16 individually numbered hamburgers and a dice and stickers. The only assembly required is to attach stickers to each side of the dice to indicate which colour hamburger to feed the pig. No batteries are required and when you’re finished, all the piece’s store inside the pig so none get lost or make a mess.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5735d771894249c19d7c10b8cbc2cbe6~mv2.jpg"/><div>The game is simple, the players take turns rolling the dice, the colour of the burger revealed on the die is the colour of the burger to feed the pig, unless you get an X in which case you skip a turn. Before you feed the pig, the player must identify the number on the bottom of the burger bun, this is important in the next stage of the game. Once the number is remembered, pop the burger in the pigs mouth and push down on his head the same number of times as was written on the bottom of your burger. Make sure his head is pushed down until it clicks, this expands his belly causing the belt on the pigs waistcoat to stretch open, each push spreads his belly just a little further.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_f557e27a38c34e86bff59003456755a8~mv2.jpg"/><div>When the pig is stuffed full of burgers his arms will fly into the air and his belt burst open. The player who “<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Popped the Pig</a>” is the winner. To reset, simply push his head down once more, rethread his belt and remove the burgers through the trap door on his back.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> is first and foremost a great simple game that is as much fun for a 4-year-old as it is a 94-year-old but it also has great educational value for the younger child as they work on number recognition and counting skills as well as social skills such as turn-taking and patience.</div><div>When we played <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> we had 3 players aged 6, 11 and me (old). The game was very simple to get started and including reading the instructions (very short) we were playing in under 5 minutes. Both children, who usually struggle to find something in common, had a real hoot playing <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> and to be honest so did I. We played 3 games over about 45 minutes and had a different winner each time.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/pop-the-pig-game/">Pop the Pig</a> is destined to be one of those classic games your children love and its enduring attraction makes it great for family game nights well into the future.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5FNqczmbnKA"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Australian Toy Association TOY OF THE YEAR 2017</title><description><![CDATA[The recent Australian Toy Fair held in Melbourne saw the Australian Toy Association announce the 2017 Toys of the Year in various categories.The Winners for 2017 are:Games toy of the year: Watch Ya MouthEducational Product of the Year: Hape Mighty Mountain MineOutdoor Toy of the Year: Nerf N Strike Elite Accustrike AlphahawkAndTHE TOY OF THE YEAR: LOL Surprise Tots DollCheck out our review of the LOL Surprise Tots Doll at https://goo.gl/cFScWwWhat do you think of the judges choices?<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_f53491e4f3114ea1b2c132a73e51fdf3%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/16/Australian-Toy-Association-TOY-OF-THE-YEAR-2017</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/16/Australian-Toy-Association-TOY-OF-THE-YEAR-2017</guid><pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2017 02:28:01 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The recent Australian Toy Fair held in Melbourne saw the Australian Toy Association announce the 2017 Toys of the Year in various categories.</div><div>The Winners for 2017 are:</div><div>Games toy of the year: <a href="https://goo.gl/ETmvmj">Watch Ya Mouth</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_f53491e4f3114ea1b2c132a73e51fdf3~mv2.jpg"/><div>Educational Product of the Year: <a href="https://goo.gl/z8Hnx7">Hape Mighty Mountain Mine</a></div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0493894cda9e40c4bdfb2538e558e149~mv2.jpg"/><div>Outdoor Toy of the Year: Nerf N Strike Elite Accustrike Alphahawk</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_073ddd7b9b644ac88e9161807e1c472c~mv2.jpg"/><div>And</div><div>THE TOY OF THE YEAR: LOL Surprise Tots Doll</div><div>Check out our review of the LOL <a href="https://goo.gl/viJiu9">Surprise Tots Doll</a> at https://goo.gl/cFScWw</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_519edb3c7cc140f4be9f84f9787ee8b9~mv2.jpg"/><div>What do you think of the judges choices?</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>LITTLE OUTRAGEOUS LITTLES or LOL, ARE SUPER FUN COLLECTIBLE DOLLS WITH A SURPRISE INSIDE</title><description><![CDATA[LOL Surprise is the new collectible to hit the Australian Market in 2017. LOL stands for Little Outrageous Littles and we think these are destined to become the must have craze in schools across Australia. Remember, this company was behind last years “must have” Num Noms, and their latest offering has all the hallmarks of being even more successful.The concept is simple, with 7 layers of surprises in each LOL Surprise that are assembled to make one of more than 45 LOL surprise collectible dolls,<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_7587d88321ac4945888beca6afcf7284%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/08/LITTLE-OUTRAGEOUS-LITTLES-or-LOL-ARE-SUPER-FUN-COLLECTIBLE-DOLLS-WITH-A-SURPRISE-INSIDE</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/03/08/LITTLE-OUTRAGEOUS-LITTLES-or-LOL-ARE-SUPER-FUN-COLLECTIBLE-DOLLS-WITH-A-SURPRISE-INSIDE</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Mar 2017 01:54:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">LOL Surpri</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">se</a> is the new collectible to hit the Australian Market in 2017. LOL stands for Little Outrageous Littles and we think these are destined to become the must have craze in schools across Australia. Remember, this company was behind last years “must have” <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=num%20noms%7d">Num Noms</a>, and their latest offering has all the hallmarks of being even more successful.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_7587d88321ac4945888beca6afcf7284~mv2.jpg"/><div>The concept is simple, with 7 layers of surprises in each <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">LOL Surprise</a> that are assembled to make one of more than 45 LOL surprise collectible dolls, as each layer is unwrapped the pod reveals accessories such as shoes, bottles, clothes and then finally gives up it’s big secret, which LOL Surprise collectible have you got? Each <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">LOL Surprise</a>also includes a secret message from your collectible and stickers for your collection.</div><div>The layers are the same for each model and are</div><div>1st Layer: Secret message [shhh . . .]</div><div>2nd Layer: Emoji stickers [so many feels!]</div><div>3rd Layer: Baby bottle [heyyyy, it’s also a charm]</div><div>4th Layer: Pair of kicks [roller skates, cowgirl boots, ballet flats and more]</div><div>5th Layer: Outrageous outfits [jumpsuits, tutus, leather jackets, mermaid tails and more]</div><div>6th Layer: Fashionable accessories [sunglasses, cat ears, tiaras, oh my!]</div><div>7th Layer: … finally! <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">L.O.L. Surprise</a>!™ 3-inch doll—the ultimate surprise!</div><div> With more than 45 collectibles in series 1, the dolls range from common to rare and their value at school swap meets increases accordingly. The rarest of them all, “The Queen Bee” is highly valued amongst collectors of this latest craze.</div><div>Each LOL Doll is a member of one of 8 clubs, Dance, Opposites, Athletic, Glam, Glee, Spirit, The Glitterati and Theatre and the LOL Website ranks the Rarity of each collectible from Popular to Ultra Rare so that everyone can trade fairly and get the LOL Doll they are after.</div><div>We got our hands on 2 of the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">LOL Surprise</a> eggs and they are little, cute and loads of fun. Each layer is revealed easily with little fingers giving your child the thrill of unwrapping the item themselves without any help (younger children might need some help with scissors to cut open the bags each part comes in). Just look for the printed zipper on each layer and the plastic tears along the perforated line. The Size of each LOL Surprise is just right for little hands. The items inside your <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/lol-surprise-collectible-dolls-series-one/">LOL Surprise</a> are very well packaged and each part is easily removed.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_cf2a61249a78447b9dcbf39fd7f9b709~mv2.jpg"/><div>Each doll has a special feature or two, some cry, some change colour when wet and others will spit up or even tinkle and the stickers in each LOL will tell you a little about what your doll will do. They are all dressed in outrageously colourful and sometimes eccentric costumes that just add to the element of fun. Assembly was very straightforward and the parts, whilst small, are easily handled by ages three plus. The doll is just over 7cm tall and surprisingly each doll has moveable arms and legs for extra play fun.</div><div>There is nothing on the outside of the packaging that would indicate which doll you will receive, so it is a bit of a lucky dip, for us that was half the fun as we tried to guess, based on each piece, which doll we had received. It really wasn’t until the last piece was unwrapped that we could confidently say which ones we had.</div><div>The <a href="https://lolsurprise.mgae.com/">LOL Doll website</a> even has Adoption Certificates and details on each doll for your child to check out.</div><div>We are amazed at just how much fun they have packed into these little dolls and at under $20.00 per doll we are sure parents and children will both love them as well.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hatchimals return to Australian Retailer Toy Universe.</title><description><![CDATA[Hatchimals return to Australias No 1 online toy retailer www.toyuniverse.com.au on Friday 17th February. Demand is expected to be extremely high and all will be sold on first come first served basis. No pre orders are available.<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d43115a651294b9eb58fe75d95104093%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/15/Hatchimals-return-to-Australian-Retailer-Toy-Universe</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/15/Hatchimals-return-to-Australian-Retailer-Toy-Universe</guid><pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2017 04:07:24 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d43115a651294b9eb58fe75d95104093~mv2.jpg"/><div>Hatchimals return to Australias No 1 online toy retailer www.toyuniverse.com.au on Friday 17th February. Demand is expected to be extremely high and all will be sold on first come first served basis. No pre orders are available.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>BEYBLADES BURST ONTO THE BATTLE TOP SCENE IN 2017 WITH APP POWERED TOPS AND PLAYSETS</title><description><![CDATA[Beyblades have undergone a transformation that has created a new, more interactive and app supported Beyblade Burst from Hasbro.In the past, we should admit we have been a little underwhelmed by Beyblade, but this next generation takes the experience to a whole new level of design, strategy and competition.The Beyblade Burst are made up of three interchangeable parts, Energy Layers, Forge Discs and Performance Tips. The parts are interchangeable between the different models available so the more<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0ad4b334f0b148028fb431baa9f622d4%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_324%2Ch_324/777202_0ad4b334f0b148028fb431baa9f622d4%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/03/BEYBLADES-BURST-ONTO-THE-BATTLE-TOP-SCENE-IN-2017-WITH-APP-POWERED-TOPS-AND-PLAYSETS</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/03/BEYBLADES-BURST-ONTO-THE-BATTLE-TOP-SCENE-IN-2017-WITH-APP-POWERED-TOPS-AND-PLAYSETS</guid><pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2017 09:01:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Beyblades have undergone a transformation that has created a new, more interactive and app supported <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%7d">Beyblade Burst</a> from Hasbro.</div><div>In the past, we should admit we have been a little underwhelmed by Beyblade, but this next generation takes the experience to a whole new level of design, strategy and competition.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%7d">Beyblade Burst</a> are made up of three interchangeable parts, Energy Layers, Forge Discs and Performance Tips. The parts are interchangeable between the different models available so the more <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%7d">Beyblade Burst</a> you have the more options you have available to create the battle winning Beyblade Burst and proceed to the next round in the battle to the Beyblade death. Each part is carefully selected by the player to modify strength, energy and performance of the Beyblade Burst in response to the selections made by your opponent.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0ad4b334f0b148028fb431baa9f622d4~mv2.jpg"/><div>Once assembled, each player launches their <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%7d">Beyblade Burst</a> over the Beystadium and the battle begins. The Beyblades spin, bouncing off the stadium walls before smashing into each other. The first player to 3 points is declared the winner with points being awarded if your opponents Beyblade stops spinning or bounces out of the Beystadium (1point) or when your opponents Beyblade Burst breaks up (2 points).</div><div>Beyblade Burst requires no batteries and is designed for ages 8 plus and we reckon even grandparents would enjoy this one.</div><div>Beyblade Burst was one of the exciting toys out of the Hong Kong Toy Fair in 2017 and with Technology being the focus for toys in 2017, the Beyblade Burst app takes the concept online with your friends on your WiFi network.</div><div>Simply download the App to your Apple or Android device (check that your device is compatible) and photograph the Beyblade you have created from your range of Beyblade Burst characters. This enables you to unlock this character and take your Beyblade Burst experience online.</div><div>Beyblade Burst is available in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%20starter%7d">Starter Packs</a> , <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=beyblade%20burst%20dual%7d">Dual Packs</a> and the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/beyblade-burst-epic-rivals-battle-set/">Epic Rivals Battle Set</a> all of which include the App Version for those battles that are truly out of this world.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d5bfc51123824500ae25bb2233b0dab1~mv2.jpg"/><div>We played with the Beyblade Burst in Hong Kong and found it to be a really simple concept made into a battle of strategy and tactics by the mix and match nature of the Energy Layers, Forge Discs and Performance Tips. Dependant upon which piece you choose, you will end up with a very different performance from your Beyblade.</div><div>We love what Hasbro has done with the Beyblade Burst and the App will add a whole new dimension to your child’s enjoyment. If your child liked Beyblades, they will love Beyblades Burst.</div><div>Check out this promotional video from Hasbro:</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IZy5d403_6M"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>What's in the toy store in 2017</title><description><![CDATA[Every year the Toy Industry runs the Hong Kong Toy Fair in January to showcase the new and exciting toys that manufacturers will be releasing worldwide.As we have every year our Managing Director and our Buyers went to Hong Kong to not only see the latest and greatest new toys as well as touching bases with some of our great suppliers. Toy Universe was the only Australian Online Toy Store to attend in 2017 and we are very glad we did, it is going to be a huge year in toys with a massive shift in<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_aba1c9c89e234771af7e20ee5c452233%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Universe Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/03/Whats-in-the-toy-store-in-2017</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2017/02/03/Whats-in-the-toy-store-in-2017</guid><pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2017 00:09:02 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Every year the Toy Industry runs the Hong Kong Toy Fair in January to showcase the new and exciting toys that manufacturers will be releasing worldwide.</div><div>As we have every year our Managing Director and our Buyers went to Hong Kong to not only see the latest and greatest new toys as well as touching bases with some of our great suppliers. Toy Universe was the only Australian Online Toy Store to attend in 2017 and we are very glad we did, it is going to be a huge year in toys with a massive shift in technology in toys being one of the primary focuses.</div><div>So, what does the Toy Industry have in store for your child in 2017?</div><div>Technology, Technology and Technological interaction were the key focus for virtually every manufacturer from Hasbro to Hatchimals and Mattel to Playdoh they are all getting a new technological edge and new product ranges.</div><div>The focus in 2017 is “largely on improving current toys through technological interaction whilst developing entirely new toys to match the advances in technology” said the Chief Buyer for <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Universe</a>.</div><div>Some toys are still hidden behind a curtain of secrecy as final tweaks and polishes are made, but we can tell you that Furreal is in for a GIANT year as is the Star Wars Juggernaut fuelled by the latest releases by Disney which are set to continue in 2017. All the major brands have massive catalogues of new releases, but her are a few of our favourites that are coming soon.</div><div>Virtual and Augmented Reality will become mainstream in the Toy Industry over the next 12 months and some of the toys we tried out are truly impressive. Take for example the Air Hogs Connect: Mission Drone that uses Augmented reality through your tablet or phone to challenge the Drone Pilot in ways that were mere science fiction some 24 months ago. If you think of the Holgram Deck in Star Trek you are not far from where your children’s toys are headed. Aimed at an often neglected age group in the toy world, we couldn’t get enough of the Mission Drone.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f28HQWoz-OQ"/><div>The humble Play Doh from Hasbro has had its first major makeover in 60 years with the Play Doh Touch Shape to Life that adds a whole new dimension to the humble modelling clay. Using Shape to Life, your child (or you, if you are anything like us) creates a traditional Play Doh model that is then scanned using your phone and the Shape to Life Studio before coming to life on your screen. Your very own creation then becomes a character in your very own virtual world. The more characters you add, the bigger and better the story becomes and the more worlds you can unlock in the App.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nvt4d4njdgY"/><div>Fisher Price have announced the Think and Learn Smart Cycle which some claim will tackle childhood obesity, we’re not sure about that but it will certainly tackle any hint of childhood boredom. The stationary cycle is aimed at Toddlers and is connected to your tablet or television and the player controls the speed of games through the speed they pedal. Perfect for children who need to burn a little energy.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_aba1c9c89e234771af7e20ee5c452233~mv2.jpg"/><div> With lots more heading to the store it is going to be a big year for toys in 2017.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Spider Web Nest Swing - 100cm</title><description><![CDATA[We had a fantastic opportunity this week to test out the Heavenly Hammocks 100cm Orange Round Spider Web Nest Swing when we had a family Christmas get together just recently.The first thing (and very important at this time of year) was the super fast shipping. It took 2 days from our order to our door.The Spider Web Nest Swing was well packaged but does require some assembly, however it is just sliding a few pieces of tubing together and sticking a couple of bolts in. You will not be required to<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c2b682ecbe3d468ba6b5d2333fa2cad5%7Emv2.jpeg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/12/13/Spider-Web-Nest-Swing---100cm</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/12/13/Spider-Web-Nest-Swing---100cm</guid><pubDate>Tue, 13 Dec 2016 06:45:59 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>We had a fantastic opportunity this week to test out the <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/100cm-orange-round-spider-web-nest-swing.php">Heavenly Hammocks 100cm Orange Round Spider Web Nest Swing</a> when we had a family Christmas get together just recently.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c2b682ecbe3d468ba6b5d2333fa2cad5~mv2.jpeg"/><div>The first thing (and very important at this time of year) was the super fast shipping. It took 2 days from our order to our door.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Spider Web Nest Swing</a> was well packaged but does require some assembly, however it is just sliding a few pieces of tubing together and sticking a couple of bolts in. You will not be required to weave metres and metres of orange rope, that is all done. The kit comes with everything you need (including instructions!) and is very easy to setup.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_911817f1c7094f3da96c0ba03ce2e433~mv2.jpeg"/><div>You will need a strong and sturdy beam or tree branch to hang the <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Spider Web Nest Swing</a> from. The Spider Web Nest Swing is rated up to 100kg so it needs to be able to handle that, and more before it is safe. To hang the Spider Web Nest Swing was super easy using the included 2 tree straps (made from seat belt like material) which loop over whatever you are hanging the <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Spider Web Nest Swing</a> from and then thread through a sewn in eyelet and down to attach to the Spider Web Nest Swing using a carabineer with locking screw. The outer ring of the Spider Web Nest Swing is covered with a soft black foam to protect little heads should they get a bump.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_40ddd45ece17435d99a1eb269e7ce421~mv2.jpg"/><div>You can use 1 or 2 tree straps. Using 1 means the <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Spider Web Nest Swing</a> will spin whereas 2 reduces the spinning without affecting the Spider Web Nest Swinging. We started with 2 but the demands to remove one came shortly after.</div><div>The ropes holding the <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Spider Web Nest Swing</a> up are also adjustable in length from 1.2 – 1.6 metres (plus the length of the tree straps) making the location of the Spider Web Nest Swing even more flexible.</div><div>Whilst we found the Spider Web Nest Swing super simple to set up, the real test is what happens afterwards and whether it will become a part of the kids play life, or another weird looking garden ornament slowly eaten by the plants in my backyard?</div><div>As soon as the Spider Web Nest Swing was hung out at the family gathering it was a hit taking multiple younger children into the air to squeals of delight and peels of laughter as well as more than the odd teenager who had begrudgingly accompanied their parents to this event.</div><div>The Heavenly Hammocks Spider Web Nest Swing handled a day of torture from 20 odd cousins ranging in age from 3 years to not quite 18 without a problem. We didn’t see it sit still over the entire gathering. The foam did have a few finger nail marks in it from overzealous holder ons but otherwise looked identical to when we had unpacked it. The Cousins all gave it a thumbs up (except the almost 18 year old who decided giving it a rating was lame??).</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_1bf374aea7704fc7b718ef238bfb5c71~mv2.jpg"/><div>If you are looking for an outdoor toy that will suit the young as well as the young at heart then get your hands on one of the Heavenly Hammocks Spider Web Nest Swing, if it ships like ours, it will even arrive before Christmas. The Spider Web Nest Swing also comes in a<a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/60cm-orange-round-spider-web-nest-swing.php">60cm version</a> if space is an issue.</div><div>If Orange is not your style just check out the huge range of other spider web swings at <a href="https://www.heavenlyhammocks.com.au/swings/">Heavenly Hammocks.</a></div><div>We had a great time with ours and we’re sure you will love yours.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Rubiks Cube makes a comeback with a slick movemement.</title><description><![CDATA[The Rubiks Cube was first introduced to the world in 1975 by an inventor out of Budapest and it immediately swept the world by storm. It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that almost every child in Australia was attempting to solve the Rubiks Cube Puzzle throughout the 70’s as the craze swept through not only Australia but the world.Fast forward to today and the Rubiks cube has remained a popular toy across the world with solving the Rubiks Cube an enduring puzzle for the young and old alike.If<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5bfd3d2393d34f22b709d8255d0b5570%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_326%2Ch_282/777202_5bfd3d2393d34f22b709d8255d0b5570%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/30/Rubiks-Cube-makes-a-comeback-with-a-slick-movemement</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/30/Rubiks-Cube-makes-a-comeback-with-a-slick-movemement</guid><pubDate>Wed, 30 Nov 2016 09:24:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-3x3-cube-game/">Rubiks Cube</a> was first introduced to the world in 1975 by an inventor out of Budapest and it immediately swept the world by storm. It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that almost every child in Australia was attempting to solve the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-3x3-cube-game/">Rubiks Cub</a>e Puzzle throughout the 70’s as the craze swept through not only Australia but the world.</div><div>Fast forward to today and the Rubiks cube has remained a popular toy across the world with solving the Rubiks Cube an enduring puzzle for the young and old alike.</div><div>If you are not familiar with the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-3x3-cube-game/">Rubiks Cube</a>, it is a simple enough toy. A six sided cube with each side made up of three by three faces or 26 miniature cubes in total. When you first purchase your Rubiks Cube it is neatly arranged so each side is one solid colour, either red, green, orange, yellow, white or blue. Spin the sides a few times and the cube sides break up into a mixture of all six colours. The aim is to return the Rubiks Cube to solid colours on all six sides in the fastest time possible.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_5bfd3d2393d34f22b709d8255d0b5570~mv2.jpg"/><div>Sounds simple?</div><div>I would agree, it sounds simple, but in the 40 odd years I have had a Rubiks Cube, I can only think of one occasion I was successful (if you exclude the times I pulled the squares off and rearranged them). Recently the world record for the solving of the Rubiks Cube was set at 7 seconds by a 21 year old Queenslander which is a whole 13 seconds faster than the previous record!</div><div>Crown &amp; Andrews have released the latest version of the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-3x3-cube-game/">Rubiks Cube in a 3 x 3 model</a> which features all the standard challenges the Rubiks Cube is famous for with the added bonus of a silky smooth mechanism that makes spinning the pieces much easier and faster (and appears to prevent the old disassembly cheat I was so famous for). Perhaps that is the reason 13 seconds were shaved off the world record this year?</div><div>The internet is full of hacks to make solving the puzzle much faster but Crown &amp; Andrews have posted a great tips and tricks section on their <a href="https://www.rubiks.com/blog/how-to-solve-the-rubiks-cube">website</a> that will help even the most challenged Rubiks Cube novice.</div><div>Being 2016, no toy would be complete with its own App and the Rubiks Cube is no different. Available for <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.magmic.rubikscubefree&amp;hl=en">Android</a> and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/rubiks-uncubed/id937890142?l=en&amp;mt=8">Iphone</a>, the Rubiks Cube app gives users the electronic version of the Rubiks Cube, for those moments when you are looking to better your best time to solve the puzzle. Unfortunately, my device battery won’t last 40 plus years, so for me it is unlikely to see an improvement in my solve time! The app is a bit difficult to control when you first start, but once you get the hang of it, it is strangely satisfying, albeit just as difficult as the cube itself.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-3x3-cube-game/">Rubiks Cube</a> is one of those timeless toys that have appealed to generations of children (and adults) around the world and created a side industry of countless books and cheats not to mention competitions to identify our brightest and most talented cubers. It’s not hard to see the latest version from Crown &amp; Andrews continuing this love of the Rubiks Cube for many generations to come.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_1e383a3255684d17b03b06df1c78c92c~mv2.jpg"/><div>With a RRP of under $30.00 you couldn’t ask for a better stocking stuffer this year and is recommended for ages 8 plus. The Rubiks Cube is also available in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-2x2-pocket-cube-game/">2 x 2 pocket cube</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-2x2-pocket-cube-game/">and a</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-4x4-cube-game/">4 x 4 Cube</a><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/rubiks-2x2-pocket-cube-game/">for those looking for an even more difficult challenge.</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Stinky Pig, It's a real Gas</title><description><![CDATA[A constant source of amusement for kids throughout the generations has been flatulence, anything to do with passing wind seems to bring a grin to the face of every boy and girl. Whether in the playground, at the dinner table or when visiting Grandma you can usually rely on young person in your life to find gas funny, no matter the circumstances.Harness this source of perpetual humour this Christmas, with a great new game from Play Monster called Stinky Pig. It is perfectly safe and unable to<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c8e2f27a562a44cf877aef7f703696a0%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_326%2Ch_707/777202_c8e2f27a562a44cf877aef7f703696a0%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/24/Stinky-Pig-Its-a-real-Gas</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/24/Stinky-Pig-Its-a-real-Gas</guid><pubDate>Thu, 24 Nov 2016 08:36:24 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>A constant source of amusement for kids throughout the generations has been flatulence, anything to do with passing wind seems to bring a grin to the face of every boy and girl. Whether in the playground, at the dinner table or when visiting Grandma you can usually rely on young person in your life to find gas funny, no matter the circumstances.</div><div>Harness this source of perpetual humour this Christmas, with a great new game from Play Monster called <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/stinky-pig-game/">Stinky Pig.</a> It is perfectly safe and unable to offend your senses in any way shape or form and is a great game for 2 or more players aged 6 and up.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_c8e2f27a562a44cf877aef7f703696a0~mv2.jpg"/><div>The game consists of the “<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/stinky-pig-game/">Stinky Pig</a>”, a Die and 20 tokens (these are about the size of a ten cent coin so are a choke hazard to younger children) and the object of the game is to end up with the least tokens (you may even have more than one winner). The player with the pig rolls the dice and will get either a “left”, a “right” or a smiling pink pig. Press Stinky’s belly and Stinky starts to sing, depending on what you rolled, pass Stinky, left or right or roll again if you get a pig face, but you had better move fast because once Stinky has finished singing he will pass gas and whichever player is left holding Stinky when he “lets rip” has to take a token. Remember, the player with the least tokens is the winner.</div><div>If you’re in any doubt as to the power of passing gas to bring laughter to your childs play, we tested out Stinky Pig at a 6 year olds birthday party last weekend, out goes pass the parcel and in comes Stinky, ready to entertain in his very special way.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_2201f63b96a24d1ea4be8117cee88019~mv2_d_2561_2032_s_2.jpg"/><div>6 children in a circle and after the first roll, Stinky was off with an ever increasing urgency around the circle. After about ten seconds, when the Stinky Pig tune stopped and the gas was passed laughter erupted from the room before Stinky was sent off around the circle again in the direction decided by the dice. The kids had a laugh and played without much adult intervention for almost half an hour before using all the tokens. With 6 children, 20 tokens wasn’t really enough but we added some ten cent pieces to expand the game and off they went again.</div><div>The humour of “passing gas” certainly hasn’t faded with time or generations and Stinky Pig has added that humour to a fun filled game that might just see you avoiding having to pull your child’s finger this summer.</div><div>Stinky Pig is a real gas.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B8Wx_bhy-vc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Feisty Pets, Cute, Cuddly and packed full of Attitude.</title><description><![CDATA[If there is one toy that every Australian has at some point in their lives, it’s a stuffed toy, be it a teddy, an animal or a replica of a favourite character, they are all much the same, plush, soft and cuddly.Until now.Feisty Pets have arrived in Australia and are, just a little different to your standard plush toy, let’s just say, they are stuffed full of attitude!Feisty Pets are available in six different designs including Grandmaster Funk (Monkey), Karl the Snarl (Polar Bear), Lady<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_21613de65cf848cf8ea67920a7f40d0e%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_326%2Ch_307/777202_21613de65cf848cf8ea67920a7f40d0e%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/16/Feisty-Pets-Cute-Cuddly-and-packed-full-of-Attitude</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/11/16/Feisty-Pets-Cute-Cuddly-and-packed-full-of-Attitude</guid><pubDate>Wed, 16 Nov 2016 07:51:12 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>If there is one toy that every Australian has at some point in their lives, it’s a stuffed toy, be it a teddy, an animal or a replica of a favourite character, they are all much the same, plush, soft and cuddly.</div><div>Until now.</div><div><a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search={q=feisty%20pets}">Feisty Pets</a> have arrived in Australia and are, just a little different to your standard plush toy, let’s just say, they are stuffed full of attitude!</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_21613de65cf848cf8ea67920a7f40d0e~mv2.jpg"/><div>Feisty Pets are available in six different designs including <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-grandmaster-funk-monkey-plush/">Grandmaster Funk</a> (Monkey), <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-karl-the-snarl-polar-bear-plush/">Karl the Snarl</a> (Polar Bear), <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-lady-monstertruck-the-pink-cat-plush/">Lady Monstertruck</a> (BRIGHT pink Cat), <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-princess-pottymouth-cat-plush/">Princess Pottymouth</a> (Cat), <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-sammy-suckerpunch-dog-plush/">Sammy Suckerpunch</a> (Dog) and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/feisty-pets-sir-growls-a-lot-bear-plush/">Sir Growls a lot</a> (Bear). All the designs are filled with 100% Polyester (and attitude) and are surface washable.</div><div>Each Feisty Pet comes with a list of Likes and Dislikes. We were sent Karl the Snarl (an innocent, if somewhat dopey looking Polar Bear). Karl has his droopy eyes and lists his likes as “Ice Fishing, S’mores and Yellow Snow”? His dislikes are “Springtime, Fuzzy White Seals and Lawyers!” Now normally not something most children would worry about too much but with a Feisty Pet, ignoring their likes and more importantly their dislikes can transform your lovely soft plush toy into a terrifying ball of fur with bared teeth and terrifying eyes.</div><div>My neighbours have a 5 and 7-year-old so I invited them over to give me their take on Karl the Snarl. Gravitating towards Karl the 5-year-old was the first to pick him up and after quickly playing with him placed him back on the table. I decided to help uncover Karl’s “attitude”. A quick little Skit of the nice polar bear walking along the table before asking Mr 7, (who at this stage was too cool for stuffed animals), if he liked Fuzzy White Seals, After replying yes, I gave Karl’s head a tight squeeze to expose his “attitude” at this turn of events.</div><div>Squeals, followed by “cool” followed by Karl, Mr 7 and Ms 5 disappearing down the hall where stories were told involving various displays of attitude by Karl and squeals from the recipient of Karl’s Attitude.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_eef4189550d449efa5e7e4b1694799ed~mv2_d_3900_2610_s_4_2.jpg"/><div>Before too long, Karl and his accomplices had made their way to the parents and delighted themselves in telling us cute stories designed to expose Karl’s attitude to “unsuspecting” parents. Interestingly Ms 5, who isn’t always the best communicator, used Karl to express her displeasure when it was time to leave. Being suitable for ages 3 and up we can see more than a few toddlers taking advantage of the Feisty Pets “attitude” to express their feelings.</div><div>We love toys that encourage creative play and thought and the Feisty Pet range do that in spades without a single screen or battery in sight.</div><div>Feisty Pets are one of the biggest changes to Plush Toys since, well, plush toys, and have taken Europe and the USA by storm and it is easy to see why they are soft and cuddly, although the head is not as soft as the body, but with a squeeze of the head, they transform their facial expressions to terrify even the coolest plush toy lovers.</div><div>Christmas 2016 will see a lot of Feisty Pets popping up around Australia, so be prepared, that cute adorable plush toy may just be chock full of attitude that every cheeky trickster is going to love!</div><div>Check out the video below</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HLQmnRWgjZc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Robots In Disguise BumbleBee Transformers Toy</title><description><![CDATA[Here is another fun review from our friends at Oz Toy Review, check out their You Tube Channel.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/TSnGICBhKuc/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Oz Toy Reviews</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/27/Robots-In-Disguise-BumbleBee-Transformers-Toy</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/27/Robots-In-Disguise-BumbleBee-Transformers-Toy</guid><pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2016 07:47:25 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Here is another fun review from our friends at Oz Toy Review, check out their You Tube Channel.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TSnGICBhKuc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>VTech Kidizoom Duo Kids Camera - More than a kids camera</title><description><![CDATA[If your phone is anything like mine it is full of photos and videos my kids have taken of themselves and each other making crazy faces and generally having fun. Whilst this great, and I love some of the candid moments they capture, it is my phone and it makes me more than a little nervous, when they drop everything else they touch, just how long until the screen is shattered, not to mention finding the thing when they “put it away”.Well Vtech, who have long developed a range of Kidizoom cameras,<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0ccd52ce388d4bf4a01437c4fd46bb9d%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/19/VTech-Kidizoom-Duo-Kids-Camera---More-than-a-kids-camera</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/19/VTech-Kidizoom-Duo-Kids-Camera---More-than-a-kids-camera</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Oct 2016 08:25:09 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>If your phone is anything like mine it is full of photos and videos my kids have taken of themselves and each other making crazy faces and generally having fun. Whilst this great, and I love some of the candid moments they capture, it is my phone and it makes me more than a little nervous, when they drop everything else they touch, just how long until the screen is shattered, not to mention finding the thing when they “put it away”.</div><div>Well Vtech, who have long developed a range of Kidizoom cameras, have now nailed the market with their latest offering, the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=kidizoom%7d">Vtech Kidizoom Duo</a> . The Vtech Kidizoom Duo is available in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/vtech-kidizoom-duo-camera-pink/">Pink</a> or <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/vtech-kidizoom-duo-camera-blue/">Blue</a> but are otherwise identical. The camera is recommended for ages 3 plus, and we reckon would probably be suitable for up to 9 or 10 year olds at the upper range.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=kidizoom%7d">Vtech Kidizoom Duo</a> has a great shape and weight for little hands, the two big grips on either side of the camera give little hands a great handhold that will minimise the risk of them placing a finger over the lens. The buttons are all easily reached by small and large fingers and the weight is nice and light for small arms to hold. The dual viewfinder means that the little photographer doesn’t need to squint through a single space, making it much more intuitive.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_0ccd52ce388d4bf4a01437c4fd46bb9d~mv2.jpg"/><div>Whilst the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=kidizoom%7d">Vtech Kidizoom Duo</a> would leave most professionals begging for more features, it strikes a great balance between functionality and fun for the budding photographer in your family. With a 4x zoom and a 6cm (2.4 inch) colour LCD screen The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=kidizoom%7d">Vtech Kidizoom Duo</a> has the look and feel of a great camera. The internal memory will hold roughly 200 photos but does get chewed up pretty quickly with the longer videos my kids tend to shoot, but that’s OK, you can add a Micro SD to the mix to expand the memory, or just delete the hundreds of photos kids seem to take of their feet.</div><div>Technically, the Kidizoom Duo is a great little camera but practically is where it comes in to its own. The selfie craze is everywhere and even young photographers want in on the action. Vtech have used their years of experience in childrens technology to include both a forward facing and rear facing camera with a dedicated button to switch between the two making it, well, Childs play. Now the ability to easily shoot video, add filters and frames, voice record and use the flash are all added features that make this a great little multipurpose unit.</div><div>But, being Vtech, that’s not all, they have also included 5 games built into the camera for your child to get extra functionality from the unit. There is no word yet on whether they will add more games to the library, but the 5 included are quite fun and should keep the young photographer busy when not shooting funny faces or feet.</div><div>We reckon it looks tough and sturdy but we still had to drop it from a height to make sure. First we had a 7-year-old hold it above his head and drop it to a tiled floor with no visible damage and the camera restarted without any problem and functioned as expected. Then I did the same, I am 185cm (6ft) tall so when held above my head, it was about two metres. My heart did skip a beat when the battery cover popped off. I need not have worried, it popped straight back on and away they went. This would appear to be plenty tough enough to handle most kids knocks and bounces, not necessarily indestructible but tough enough for daily use and the wrist strap will no doubt come in handy as well.</div><div>The camera uses 4 AA Batteries (which are included) and how long they last will depend on how the camera is used but we were able to use it for a solid day without completely draining the batteries.</div><div>We loved the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/search.php?search=%7bq=kidizoom%7d">Vtech Kidizoom Duo</a> , in fact we think it is the best product in this camera range that Vtech have ever made. If your children are anything like mine, they will love the freedom and fun of their own camera, video camera and game suite and you will enjoy getting your phone back!</div><div>Want to know more ? Watch the video below :</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1dfWWCSId1s"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>If you Love Hot Wheels, you'll love Zuru Microboats!</title><description><![CDATA[With Summer weather just around the corner it’s time to think about water toys and activities that make keeping cool super fun for your children and their friends.We were lucky enough to have a really warm spring day when we tested out the Zuru Micro Boats and Zuru Micro Boats Racing Track Playset from Toy Universe. Myself, 6 year old Lucas and his friend Tom made the most of the opportunity to get wet on what was an unseasonably hot day.The Zuru Micro Boats are a range of 4 different colour<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d455e5d9fdb54816a47e1d9f6c86829a%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_282%2Ch_211/777202_d455e5d9fdb54816a47e1d9f6c86829a%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Universe</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/12/If-you-Love-Hot-Wheels-youll-love-Zuru-Microboats</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/10/12/If-you-Love-Hot-Wheels-youll-love-Zuru-Microboats</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Oct 2016 08:11:39 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>With Summer weather just around the corner it’s time to think about water toys and activities that make keeping cool super fun for your children and their friends.</div><div>We were lucky enough to have a really warm spring day when we tested out the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-single-pack/">Zuru Micro Boats</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-racing-track-playset/">Zuru Micro Boats Racing Track Playset</a> from <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Universe</a>. Myself, 6 year old Lucas and his friend Tom made the most of the opportunity to get wet on what was an unseasonably hot day.</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-single-pack/">Zuru Micro Boats</a> are a range of 4 different colour boats that are roughly the size of a hot wheels car and are designed to look like the boats that you might see being raced in speed trials on the rivers and lakes of Australia. Each boat is sold separately and are powered by little engines that are built into each one and include batteries (LR44 button batteries). The manufacturers claim, that if the size was scaled up to a full size boat then they would be capable of reaching speeds of just under 1000 km/h! With the current water speed record being just over 510 km/h where not sure about the mathematics, but regardless, we reckon they move across the water at a respectable pace. In fact, when the boats ran into each other from the side (as Lucas did with remarkable regularity) the boat would get airborne and jump over the other.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_d455e5d9fdb54816a47e1d9f6c86829a~mv2.jpg"/><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-single-pack/">Zuru Micro Boats</a> have a number of unique features that make them easy to use and great fun for ages 3 plus. First the boats are fitted with a bumper on the bow that detects when they come into contact with a solid wall and automatically reverses away from the obstruction before continuing on. Each boat has a rudder tab to enable control over the direction the boat travels in making them able to spin in 360 degree circles or straight lines or, as was the case when I was trying them out, about half way between both.</div><div>Of course, with that type of speed and manoeuvrability it wasn’t long until Lucas and Tom turned to racing against each other. In a straight line each boat is just as fast as the other but introduce the challenge of the Racing Track Playset and the skills of the driver come into play in determining the winner.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_59402a25b2164b219a82b18ab498ed3e~mv2.jpg"/><div>The<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-racing-track-playset/">Racing Track Playset</a> is a figure 8 clear plastic racetrack that you fill with water for the boats to race around. The clear plastic enables the competitors to see what their boats are doing underwater as well as above. The boats are launched by the competitors using the boat crane before racing off around nearly 2 metres of racetrack. Whilst racing, the competitors need to watch out for walls, and obstacles like the shark that can swallow your boat in one gulp!</div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-single-pack/">Zuru Micro Boats</a> will work in any water including the bath or pool (where Tom and Lucas are currently trying to navigate into the skimmer box) but the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-racing-track-playset/">Racing track Playset</a> adds an awesome dimension of fun and a great way for kids to race off with their mates.</div><div>If you are looking for a great fun water toy for your child that isn’t just another pool toy then we think the <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/zuru-micro-boats-single-pack/">Zuru Micro Boats</a> are a real fun way to splash around and best of all, being “micro” can be set up in small backyards or veranda’s where space is at a minimum as the track is only needs a 60cm by 30cm space.</div><div>We had a great afternoon playing with the Zuru Micro Boats and Racing Track Playset and can see any child aged 3 – 9 plus having just as much fun this summer as we did. Think of them as the Hot Wheels of the water!</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Playskool Heroes Captain America Super Jungle Squad</title><description><![CDATA[Oz Toy Reviews have another great video for everyone to enjoy.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/BtyXXPWbvYA/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Oz Toy Reviews</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/17/Playskool-Heroes-Captain-America-Super-Jungle-Squad</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/17/Playskool-Heroes-Captain-America-Super-Jungle-Squad</guid><pubDate>Sat, 17 Sep 2016 08:43:15 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Oz Toy Reviews have another great video for everyone to enjoy.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BtyXXPWbvYA"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dolu Ride On Toys - Now in Australia!</title><description><![CDATA[Every now and then we see toys that we know will tick all the right boxes, and this week, when we were sent the range of Dolu Toys, Ride on Pedal Cars, Tractors and Quad Bikes we knew we had one of those toys.The Dolu toys range is built in Turkey (not China) from high quality plastics and feature a range of 3 tractors, 2 sports cars and a quad bike. Each of the Dolu Toys vehicles are pedal powered, with the tractors and quad bike having pedals on the side whilst the sports cars pedals are]]></description><dc:creator>www.toyuniverse.com.au</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/12/Dolu-Ride-On-Toys---Now-in-Australia</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/12/Dolu-Ride-On-Toys---Now-in-Australia</guid><pubDate>Mon, 12 Sep 2016 09:52:44 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Every now and then we see toys that we know will tick all the right boxes, and this week, when we were sent the range of Dolu Toys, Ride on Pedal Cars, Tractors and Quad Bikes we knew we had one of those toys.</div><div>The Dolu toys range is built in Turkey (not China) from high quality plastics and feature a range of 3 tractors, 2 sports cars and a quad bike. Each of the Dolu Toys vehicles are pedal powered, with the tractors and quad bike having pedals on the side whilst the sports cars pedals are tucked underneath the hood of these head turning cars.</div><div>There are two models of sports cars one in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-car-pink/">pink</a> and the other in <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-car-red/">red</a>, each of which feature racing style decals and rear view mirrors.</div><div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_6183028293f54579a77931dfb5a92150~mv2.jpg"/></div><div>The <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-atv-quad/">Quad Bike or ATV</a> is a black and red beast that looks just like the quad bike that Dad might ride on the weekend with his mates.</div><div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_393ef27e69fa45bc83c1d7ff1ff5505c~mv2.jpg"/></div><div>The tractor is a personal favourite and with three models to choose from there is sure to be just the right tractor for any job. Whether you need <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-tractor-with-excavator/">an Excavator</a>, with a working bucket for those big digging jobs or a<a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-tractor-with-trailer/">tractor and trailer</a> for carting those heavy loads around the site or farm or a <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/dolu-ride-on-pedal-powered-tractor/">plain tractor</a> for moving around the farm, the Dolu range has all the bases covered.</div><div>Each ride on features a moulded plastic seat and all the drive chains are hidden from the prying little fingers to avoid any risk of fingers getting caught. The box does contain those dreaded words “some adult assembly required” but we found it to be really simple and relatively quick to put the vehicles together. The ride ons vary in length from around 80cm for the sports cars to 170cm for the tractor and trailer. Bigger kids would possibly prefer the tractor or ATV range for the extra legroom.</div><div>Being well built and having a great range is one thing but what do the kids think. So we asked our resident 3 and 4 year old testers what they thought of the designs. The sports cars were an immediate hit with both testers declaring the red car to be the fastest. The tractors were quickly dispatched to the sand pit where excavation is under way as I write. The 4 year old is digging out copious amounts of dirt whilst the 3 year old is driving the tractor with trailer to drive around the sandpit before tipping the sand back in, I believe they will be entertained for a while.</div><div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_24118e5bf46a4d3fb9ad8e98efbb9caa~mv2.jpg"/></div><div>Apparently we can’t use the ATV because there is not enough mud in my yard.</div><div>When asked to rate the machinery out of 10, both our junior testers scored them an 11. Neither stopped digging up the sandpit.</div><div>Suitable for ages 3 and up, these ride on vehicles will be the envy of all the kids in your neighbourhood, a little like a real sports car would be for the big kid in your life.</div><div>We can see the Dolu range of ride ons taking Australia by storm this year.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>KICKBricks - An exciting new construction toy.</title><description><![CDATA[Construction toys have long held a place in every childs toy chest and the latest newcomer seeks to expand this market with its red and yellow closed cell foam bricks KICKBricks are a new and unique opportunity for children to explore open ended play.Originally developed by Nick Cook to be used as Target Towers in his popular pre-school soccer clinics, Nick quickly saw a market for the bricks as toys when they were every bit as popular as the soccer game itself and KICKBricks were<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_cf55f89386054c7fab6879c3499f6b50%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_326%2Ch_326/777202_cf55f89386054c7fab6879c3499f6b50%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Review Australia</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/07/KICKBricks---An-exciting-new-construction-toy</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/07/KICKBricks---An-exciting-new-construction-toy</guid><pubDate>Wed, 07 Sep 2016 07:34:49 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Construction toys have long held a place in every childs toy chest and the latest newcomer seeks to expand this market with its red and yellow closed cell foam bricks <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> are a new and unique opportunity for children to explore open ended play.</div><div>Originally developed by Nick Cook to be used as Target Towers in his popular pre-school soccer clinics, Nick quickly saw a market for the bricks as toys when they were every bit as popular as the soccer game itself and <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a>were born.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_cf55f89386054c7fab6879c3499f6b50~mv2.jpg"/><div><a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> come in packs of 30 or 60 (which is 2 x 30 packs) and include a zip faced storage bag that is similar in size and weight to a queen doona you might buy from any department store. The bricks are easily repacked into the storage bag and store neatly ready for use. Currently the bricks come in mixed packs of Red (more an orange/red) and yellow and each pack includes equal numbers of each colour.</div><div>The <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> are well made from closed cell foam and being lightweight are easily handled by small hands. The closed cell foam expands the uses for the product to the pool, the bath, the beach or pretty much anywhere as the foam is easily washed and will not absorb water.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_11b4358d23894e7e8884ba0c90bcc60b~mv2.jpg"/><div>With virtually unlimited uses it could be a little difficult to get started with <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> but Nick and his team have taken care of that with some great pictorial suggestions for walls, towers, goals and bath toys in a pamphlet included with each pack. Once your child gets a feel for the <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> they can then develop their own designs and games in true open ended play.</div><div><a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/product-uses">Open ended Play</a> allows the child to use materials to express their own imagination and creativity and is one of the current trends in preschools and junior schools to enable children to develop their own personalities and engagement.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_85c6700796ac42b8a810859cb0082ef1~mv2_d_2048_1365_s_2.jpg"/><div>We can see a market for <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> with a lot of young construction fanatics but where we think it will reach its full potential is in group situations such as you will find in schools, birthday parties and preschools where the children can develop something together before being able to destroy it and start again.</div><div>We love open ended toys and <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/">KICKBricks</a> are a unique addition to the market for open ended group play. We can see educators and parents alike embracing this new entrant to the market in Australia.</div><div>KICKBricks are recommended for ages 3 plus and are available for <a href="http://www.kickbrick.com.au/order-bricks">purchase directly from the KICKBricks website.</a></div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>TMNT Half Shell Heroes Super Hero Playset</title><description><![CDATA[Another great video review from our good friends at OZ Toy Review. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/toCg2InEBjc/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>OZ Toy Reviews</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/01/TMNT-Half-Shell-Heroes-Super-Hero-Playset</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/09/01/TMNT-Half-Shell-Heroes-Super-Hero-Playset</guid><pubDate>Thu, 01 Sep 2016 08:21:24 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>Another great video review from our good friends at OZ Toy Review. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.</div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/toCg2InEBjc"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Imaginext Transforming Batcave</title><description><![CDATA[We are really excited to be working with OZ Toy Review to share with you some of their fantastic video reviews.Check out this first one of The Imaginext Transforming Batcave Review which you can pick up at one of our toy partners www.toyuniverse.com.au<img src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/9sDjioMzjng/mqdefault.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Oz Toy Review</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/24/Imaginext-Transforming-Batcave</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/24/Imaginext-Transforming-Batcave</guid><pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2016 08:54:27 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>We are really excited to be working with OZ Toy Review to share with you some of their fantastic video reviews.</div><div>Check out this first one of The Imaginext Transforming Batcave Review which you can pick up at one of our toy partners <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">www.toyuniverse.com.au</a></div><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9sDjioMzjng"/></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Irish Fairy Doors - A door to your childs imagination</title><description><![CDATA[My gang of Toy Testers are all a little bit old for this week’s review so I had to travel far and wide to locate some new testers who were ready to enter the imaginary world of fairies with the sensational world of Irish Fairy Doors and accessories.I ended up at our good friends’ house, 6 doors down from me, who have Lucy (4) and Emily (6). Both girls quickly agreed to my terms to become Toy Testers for the afternoon. Apparently a Killer Python each is more than enough payment.The folks at Toy<img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_13e0102be7fb427bb58c509b6a47416b%7Emv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_332%2Ch_185/777202_13e0102be7fb427bb58c509b6a47416b%7Emv2.jpg"/>]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/09/Irish-Fairy-Doors---A-door-to-your-childs-imagination</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/09/Irish-Fairy-Doors---A-door-to-your-childs-imagination</guid><pubDate>Tue, 09 Aug 2016 10:56:40 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>My gang of Toy Testers are all a little bit old for this week’s review so I had to travel far and wide to locate some new testers who were ready to enter the imaginary world of fairies with the sensational world of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/searchresults.html?search_query=irish+fairy+door">Irish Fairy Doors</a> and accessories.</div><div>I ended up at our good friends’ house, 6 doors down from me, who have Lucy (4) and Emily (6). Both girls quickly agreed to my terms to become Toy Testers for the afternoon. Apparently a Killer Python each is more than enough payment.</div><div>The folks at <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Univers</a>e have sent out the full range of Fairy Doors from The Irish Fairy Door Company, including 3 doors, background wall art to set the scene and real life Fairy accessories and of course, some Magical Fairy Dust.</div><div>The Irish Fairy Door Company is the original inventor of the Fairy Door Concept that has taken the world by storm over the last few years. The three doors are an “arched style” door that come in three magical colours, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-blue-arched-fairy-door-set/">Blue</a>, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-purple-arched-fairy-door-set/">Purple</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-pink-arched-fairy-door-set/">Pink</a> to match most decors.The girls were quickly ripping open the Purple and Pink doors leaving me with a stunning Blue number to make on my own.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_13e0102be7fb427bb58c509b6a47416b~mv2.jpg"/><div>Each door is handmade by The Irish Fairy Door Company and sticks easily to almost any surface, indoors or out. If you are going to use your fairy door outside though the manufacturer suggests a quick coat of clear lacquer to protect from the elements. The door sets include, The Magic key inside a bottle, 3 stepping stones so the fairies don’t get dirty feet and a notepad for the fairies to leave little notes for the fairy believer. A lease agreement for the Fairy Door makes everything official.</div><div>The official paperwork is very important when you have a genuine Irish Fairy Door in your possession as it is this paperwork that allows you to go online and enter the magical world of the Fairy for your child. This magical world is full of games, ideas and fun fairy stories that will help your child to unlock the magic of the fairy kingdom and bring their very own Fairy Door to life. Registration is really easy and quick, all you need is your official papers.</div><div>Of course, a Fairy Door is very well and good, but you might find that you have a bit more luck with the fairy visits if you bring in some accessories for the little fairies to feel right at home.</div><div>Luckily the Irish Fairy Door Company has thought of everything and created a number of accessories including a clothes line (complete with <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-clothes-line-and-male-fairy-clothes-set/">male clothes</a> or <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-clothes-line-and-female-fairy-clothes-set/">female clothes</a> for your fairies), A <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-garden-accessory-set/">Garden Accessory Ki</a>t (including a park bench for your fairy to rest their feet) and a Playtime Set for the younger fairy who just wants to have fun.</div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_efa136661a83428fb76e7e5b3f88846f~mv2.jpg"/><div>With all the equipment set up, it’s time to set the scene for your Irish Fairy Door with the stick on (and easy peel off) wall art which is in three, uniquely fairy designs of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-toadstool-wall-art/">Toadstoo</a>l, <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-rainbow-wall-art/">Rainbow</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-picket-fence-wall-art/">Picket Fenc</a>e. These background wall arts really set the scene for the arrival of your favourite fairy.</div><div>Lucy and Emily had each retired to their rooms with their killer pythons and their collections from the Irish Fairy Door Company. With the help of Mum and Dad they were carefully planning their Fairy Kingdoms with Lucy installing her door just above the skirting board next to her bed and Emily installing her door on the window and window sill as she is on the top bunk. Both were busily comparing notes on who would see the fairies tonight. Lucy quickly declared she wasn’t sleeping tonight until she saw a fairy!</div><div>I set my Fairy Door up in their playroom and sprinkled a hefty dose of <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/magical-irish-fairy-door-fairy-dust/">fairy dust</a> around to really set the scene. Being a glitter like substance I am not sure you would want to use the Fairy Dust on carpet but then again, you only live once.</div><div>The online world created by The Irish Fairy Door Company is really easy to use and great fun for the Fairy lover in your family, just like the fairy door.</div><div>The Irish Fairy Door Company have created a cute, fun and interactive little toy, No batteries, No violence, just good wholesome fun for those that are prepared to believe in a little magic.</div><div>Despite what Lucy may have thought, the girls were both reported to have gone straight to bed that night, each keen to see the fairy appear. Mum quickly told the girls that the Fairies won’t come until your eyes are closed and they were asleep in minutes, perhaps the solution to bedtime woes?</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>LASER PEGS THE LIGHT UP LED CONSTRUCTION BRICKS MAKING CONSTRUCTION PLAY EVEN MORE FUN</title><description><![CDATA[I will admit that I have a soft spot for Lego, it’s challenging, fun, a great challenge for younger kids and an exciting connection to my own childhood all rolled into one.So when this week’s toy arrived I am not sure who was more excited, me or my 4 “volunteers” who were keen to get started before I even arrived.Laser Pegs are a new take on the old idea of “Construction Bricks” and add a whole new technology base to any “construction brick” brand including the major one. Unfortunately, Lawyers]]></description><dc:creator>Toy Tester Dad</dc:creator><link>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/04/LASER-PEGS-THE-LIGHT-UP-LED-CONSTRUCTION-BRICKS-MAKING-CONSTRUCTION-PLAY-EVEN-MORE-FUN</link><guid>https://www.toyreview.com.au/single-post/2016/08/04/LASER-PEGS-THE-LIGHT-UP-LED-CONSTRUCTION-BRICKS-MAKING-CONSTRUCTION-PLAY-EVEN-MORE-FUN</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2016 11:03:18 +0000</pubDate><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><div>I will admit that I have a soft spot for Lego, it’s challenging, fun, a great challenge for younger kids and an exciting connection to my own childhood all rolled into one.</div><div>So when this week’s toy arrived I am not sure who was more excited, me or my 4 “volunteers” who were keen to get started before I even arrived.</div><div>Laser Pegs are a new take on the old idea of “Construction Bricks” and add a whole new technology base to any “construction brick” brand including the major one. Unfortunately, Lawyers prevent me from telling you which is the major “Construction Brick” toy but you get the drift.</div><div><img src="http://static.wixstatic.com/media/777202_972b53b455054bf2aca747017d6828d0~mv2.jpg"/></div><div>As the box was upturned, Mr James (5), Ms Emma (7), Mr Ben (16) and Ms Emily (13) quickly grabbed their prize and began ripping open boxes. Mr James made a show of “reading” the instructions and the others, well, let’s just say instructions are not their strong point.</div><div>Ultimately, instructions or not, Laser Pegs are as simple as snapping together a few blocks to get started and being open ended, it really didn’t matter what they built.</div><div>The folks at <a href="http://www.toyuniverse.com.au">Toy Universe</a> had sent us over five sets of the Laser Pegs. The range included the 8 in 1 <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/laser-pegs-8-in-1-bulldozer/">Bulldozer</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/laser-pegs-8-in-1-helicopter/">Helicopter</a>, the 6 in 1 <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/laser-pegs-6-in-1-dragster/">Dragster</a> and the 4 in 1 <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/laser-pegs-4-in-1-helicopter/">Helicopter</a> and <a href="https://www.toyuniverse.com.au/laser-pegs-4-in-1-car/">Car</a>. Each Laser Peg is recommended for ages 5 and up.</div><div>Each Laser Peg set is an open ended toy but they do include multiple sets of instructions as referenced by the numbers in front of the names, for example, the 4 in 1 range includes ideas for 4 separate models, the car, formula 4 mini, sprint car and the modified mud racer. Realistically though you could make almost anything by combining the Laser Pegs with pieces from your favorite “construction bricks” sets as they are compatible with almost all of them.</div><div>It was about now that the testing center (my dining room) was plunged into darkness and the completed models were tested out. The various models flew and drove their way around the room with a variety of squeals and mimicked sound effects from the testers mouths. But the lights and colours were what really set these “Construction Brick” toys apart from other brands.</div><div>The models are fitted with a battery power pack that powers the LED lights installed in the Laser Peg (each toy has 2 or 3 Laser Pegs included dependent on the size of each set) and the colours glow through the translucent bricks which create a light show as the toy races around the room.</div><div>My testers range in age from 5 up to 16 and each of them was kept entertained for a solid 45 mins. After 45 minutes “construction Brick” sets were pulled out of the cupboard and pretty quickly Dr Frankenstein was creating a hybrid beast from different parts in their collections.</div><div>As I said, I love Lego and other “construction brick” toys, they have a special place. The team at Laser Pegs have taken the humble “construction brick” and using modern technology created a worthy enhancement to the humble “construction brick” that will add fun and laughter to any “construction brick” lovers’ day.</div><div>It seems that we are not the only ones who think the Laser Pegs are a great addition to any “construction brick” collection. Laser Peg has cleaned up at more than 20 toy awards since its introduction including Coolest Toy, New York Toy Fair 2016 and Creative Toy of the Year to name just a couple.</div><div>I highly recommend the Laser Peg for your “construction brick” fan and so does our Prime Minister, these are the building blocks of S.T.E.M. Learning skills he believes will be so important for your children’s careers as adults.</div><div>Right now I need to “check out” Frankenstein’s baby, a HeliDozercar that appears intent on destroying my test center.</div></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>