Product Reviews & Consumer Advice » Toys

More Fun with the Nintendo 3DS

admin — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 09:57:09 +0000

Nintendo 3DS – Aqua Blue

The company that changed the world of video games with touch-screen gaming in 2004 and motion-controlled gaming in 2006 now pioneers the

Nintendo 3DS – Cosmo Black

The company that changed the world of video games with touch-screen gaming in 2004 and motion-controlled gaming in 2006 now pioneers the

Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition

The ultimate version of Street Fighter makes its seamless transition to the Nintendo 3DS with Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition. The console

Looking of ways to spend your free time in the office? At school or even at home? Are you into gaming but tired of the conventional gameplay. Do you want games that stimulate your mind and improve you reflexes? Then the Nintendo 3DS is the perfect fit for you. The Nintendo 3DS is a very powerful device; it is the only gaming console that supports 3D gaming. It also has a whole load of other cool new features that would enhance the gaming experience for the user. It has a new motion and gyro sensor that detects even the slightest movement, it also has additional cameras that can take 3D images, it also has a touchscreen that can interpret stylus input without delay and error and it also has an improved connectivity to the internet and your peers.

With such a powerful device at the gaming companies disposal, you can rest assured that the games that come with it are of class and are high quality. 3DS game reviews project that the games that would come out are absolutely fun and addicting. Games to expect are Nintendogs + Cats, Super Street Fighter IV 3D, Kingdom Hearts, Monkey ball 3D, Paper Mario and a lot more. These games incorporate the new features into gameplay. Since games use the 3D engine of the 3DS, the environment within the games are sure to be vast together with crisp and sharp visuals. You can also expect a more interactive and high paced gameplay because the games integrated movement in the controls; you must tilt, gyrate and even shake the 3DS in order to progress with your game. These new added features to the games would definitely result in more fun.

A game to watch out for is the “the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of time”. According to Nintendo 3DS reviews, this game would surely utilize the features of the new 3DS. It would be a blockbuster game of the platform bringing the old and new generation gamers together to appreciate the timeless classic. You would once again play as the ever lovable little elf named Link in his adventures. You would explore forests, dungeons and battle monsters in the process. The 3DS engine would definitely boost the appeal of the game because of the 3D landscape that you would explore together with the new gameplay that you would use for sure would count for endless hours of fun.

With the new 3DS coming into stores soon, it would be a right decision to pre-order yourself one now because come opening day, they would sell like hotcakes. People are so excited about it because of the fun factor it brings.

Gazebos For Backyard Fun

Collecting LEGO Star Wars Mini Figures

admin — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 03:12:01 +0000

LEGO Star Wars Echo Base (7749)

Pieces: 155

Recreate the Battle of Hoth!
It’s the 10th anniversary of LEGO® Star Wars, and Imperial forces are invading the Rebels’ secret base on the ice planet Hoth!

LEGO Star Wars ARC-170 Starfighter (8088)

The heavily armored, multi-purpose ARC-170 starfighter is perfect for scouting missions and leading raids on the Separatist Droid Army.

LEGO Star Wars General Grievous Starfighter (8095)

Pieces: 454

Lead the next attack against the Republic with General Grievous!
Returning to his secret lair to recover and plot his next attack!

LEGO Star Wars Clone Turbo Tank (8098)

Bristling with laser cannons and missiles, the Clone Turbo Tank rolls through the Separatist forces, seen in Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

Do you seek more Star Wars than the movies and standard web pages have to offer? Are you in a funk because you think you have all the characters, vehicles, creatures, weaponry and ephemera on the Star Wars saga series available? Well, fear not, young Jedi! There is an entirely new series in an awesome assemblage of collectibles that you can add to your super collection. That would be in the ever-popular world of Lego.

Not only are there the varied and creative characters, creatures, vehicles and weapons available to assemble in physical form, as Mini Figures, they are also in Movies, games, and animated comics form! There are so many items available in the Star Wars genre in Legos form, that you could probably start another entire separate wing in your Star Wars museum.

The animated comic’s version is already up to Chapter 19! In addition, there is a new mini movie with the Lego Mini Figures entitled, “The Quest for R2-D2″. There is also a game version of “The Quest for R2-D2″. It has 4 characters and 15 levels! You can play these online and once again delve into this classic series with renewed vigor and energy.

While the Lego figures may be mini, your excitement and enthusiasm will certainly not be. There are so many fun ways to enjoy Lego Star Wars minifigures because Lego has done a very good job of re-creating these figures in a way that stays very true to the original series of Star Wars films. Some of the available items include Cad Bane’s Speeder, The Clone Turbo Tank, General Grievous Starfighter, Plo Koon’s Jedi Starfighter, the ARC-170 Starfighter, the Droid Tri-fighter, and so many many more! Of course, all the figures and characters related to the aforementioned vehicles are also available or illustrated, as conceived and assembled by fans. There are quite a few fan sites out there that catalog the different Star Wars Lego sets.

The awesome power of George Lucas’ vision that has captured our imagination for over 30 years appears to have no end in sight. In addition, there will probably always be new ways created to appreciate the legend of Jedi fighters, and their foes, for many many eons. Somewhere, in a galaxy, far far away, there will, someday, be yet more new ways to enjoy this wonderful saga. Now, we have the Lego format.

So, get ready to smile away your afternoons with this terrifically clever new series of available outlets to stretch your Jedi wings! Go now, empty out that spare room, and paint the walls with stars and planetary orbs. Install a state-of-the-art sound system to play the themes and soundtracks 24/7. Then, go online and see these super items and decide which ones you want to purchase first. Just tell your mom (or wife) that you are collecting for the future and, someday, you will be able to sell your fantastic collection to someone’s grandson for a terrific return on this minor investment. Then, in a soft, pensive manner, tell her she actually reminds you of the beautiful Padme Amidala.

Games For Playstation Move – what will there be?

admin — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:12:58 +0000

PlayStation Move Starter Bundle

PlayStation Move is the world’s most accurate motion gaming experience. So whether you’re spiking a volleyball, shooting an arrow, or defending yourself in a…

The Fight: Lights Out

Grab your PlayStation Move motion controllers and step into the dark and gritty underground of bare knuckle brawling in The Fight: Lights Out. The power to climb to the top of…

Start the Party

In this outrageous funfest, you and up to three friends can compete head to head in over 20 of the most addicting and side-splitting mini-games out there. Use the pinpoint…

After the recent positive display of the PlayStation Move in action at the huge gaming convention E3, there is a growing interest from consumers of the Playstation Move games that will be released in September. The Playstation Move has already enticed people with its motion sensing technology and its relatively cheap price tag, the only thing people are doubting are whether their favorite genre of game will be introduced; more importantly, if it will be successfully integrated into the game.

Rest assured, Sony has made sure that they will release a whole variety of games to appeal to the broad market. There is not an ‘official’ Playstation Move games list, but it is confirmed that there will be action games such as SOCOM 4, sports games like NBA 2K11 and entertainment games such as LittleBigPlanet 2 that will utilize the peripheral.

Even though hardcore gamers have been worried that the inclusion of this device will ‘dumb-down’ the quality of future games of the Playstation 3, Sony have cleverly made the technology compatible with games that have already been released on the PS3 – it being up to the developer whether they want to introduce it or not. That means that some of them will hopefully be satisfied that they will be able to play Heavy Rain with the device when it launches in September. Unsurprisingly however, the majority of the games that will be released with the hardware are games for the ‘casual’ gamer like Singstar Dance and EyePet luring in people from the older generations to interact with the Playstation.

Overall, there is a barrage of games for the Playstation Move that will be released has been described above. On the contrary, it is to be seen whether the games will be truly successful with the device and convert hardcore gamers to the device. If you’re an early adopter, or have a lot of trust in what Sony does, there are already some Move bundles available that will be perfect for getting started with this awesome new peripheral.

Time to Get Step 2 Toys?

admin — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 15:45:14 +0000

Step 2 Up & Down Roller Coaster

Let your child experience the up-and-down thrills of a roller coaster in the safety of your living room or driveway with the Up and Down Roller Coaster from Step2.

Step2 Real Projects Workshop

This toy workshop not only encourages pretend building play, but allows children to actually build real projects. Durafoam “wood” puzzle pieces connect to create as many building projects

Step2 All Star Sports Climber

The Step2 All-Star Sports Climber is designed to keep children active with shooting, passing, climbing and kicking play in one unit. Activities featured include basketball hoop, rock wall, football toss, soccer goal and slide. Kids can keep score with the built-in

The weather is getting beautiful and spring has sprung. Are the kids getting restless to get outside in the warm sunshine? Most doctors will agree that in this time period of video games obesity is on the rise. Kids love to play video games but they also like to be active outside. Parents can encourage that with an outdoor playhouse. Getting them to play outside will only benefit them in the end. It will help keep the children healthier and happier. Step 2 toys are one fun way for kids to use their imagination and be able to use play houses.

Step 2 toys are an interesting way to provide children with outdoor playhouses. They are constructed of heavy plastic that can withstand the weather and rough play that children can offer. They will last much longer than wooden playhouses and not need any upkeep such as painting. Don’t be fooled by their cute looks as these toy playhouses are totally built to last.

These type of playhouses come in very many styles that can promote creativity. Some have porches, seats and even a grille to pretend that one is having a family barbeque. The playhouses come in different colors. They can be colored to appeal to boys and girls or there are even types that are pink and definitely one for the girls in the home. They come in a range of prices. The prices can vary from $119 to over $400. Do not despair over the price. Many can be had cheaper at yardsales in the spring. As children outgrow playhouses, many will be sold to the next group of kids as these playhouses last for many years. They are worth the price.

A toy playhouse is one of those toys that can provide many hours and years of fun. Children love to pretend and these type of playhouses provide a tool to encourage the use of their imagination. Boys and girls love to play with these toys.

Finding Lionel Train Parts

admin — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 05:35:08 +0000

Greenberg’s Repair and Operating Manual for Lionel Trains, 1945-1969 (Greenberg’s Repair and Operating Manuals)

Offers over a thousand repair and maintenance tips for Lionel locomotives, operating cars, accessories, transformers, light bulbs, and switches. Provides original Lionel technical advice and handy

Lionel Trains Polar Express Train Set – O Gauge

Now, you can own the ever popular Polar Express train from Lionel. Painstakingly designed to be true to the original, this exclusive Lionel train set features a die-cast metal Berkshire steam locomotive with

GREAT TOY TRAIN LAYOUTS. PART IV VHS TAPE

We’ve all heard the story, “The Little Engine That Could”. Its an inspiring story. It reminds one of the Lionel Model Trains. Their workmanship, beauty and detail will make any fairytale believable. The designs makes you want to jump on a train and ride with your dreams. For example: the Lionel 6-38312 Santa Fe F3 A-A Twin Diesel Set is glorious! The deep red color of this train set gives you an image of power and feeling of excitement. At a hefty price of $399.99 , it’s well worth it. Prices can vary from $5.00 to over $100.00. It doesn’t matter how nostalgic you are, whether young or old, a collector or novelty buyer the choices are endless.

Another striking set is the Lionel 6-38324 Conventional Classics NH F3 Freight Set. What makes this set so special are the color combinations and the design. The freight trains are pulled by one large locomotive with a checker board red, black and white pattern. The freight trains themselves are a combination of colors that harmonize this set to perfection, and they move too! The set may cost about $500.00,but you can find just as much joy in the cheaper models and parts too. The benefit of buying one of these high quality train sets is that they will last a lifetime, and will be something you can pass down to your kids.

The Lionel 6057 Lionel Lines Caboose goes for about $5.99. While the Lionel 2180 Road Sign Set LN/Box goes for $4.99. This road sign set includes 14 detailed pieces. Wow!…Just think; that in today’s fast paced world there’s place for relaxation and purity. That’s what Lionel Train sets and parts characterize.

Its the purity in the thoughts of a child on his or her way home from school crammed with excitement, and the parent on the way home from a hectic day at work looking forward to relaxing with the same thing in mind. Their enchanting Lionel Train set.

Tips for Buying the Best Karaoke Machine

admin — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 00:55:58 +0000

Singing Machine SML-383 Portable CDG Player Karaoke Machine, Black

Take the karaoke party on the go with the Singing Machine portable karaoke machine (model SML-383), which features a built-in disco light system to enhance the party atmosphere wherever you roam. The

Emerson GM527 DVD/CDG Karaoke Player

300 MP3G Songs on Disc 7” TFT Color Screen Record Voice and Music Mix Microphone USB/SD Card Slot Balance Control 2 Microphone Inputs Digital Echo Digital Key Control AUX input for IPod®/MP3 Players

Singing Machine ISM1010 Home Karaoke System

You will be singing the night away with the ISM1010 from Singing Machine. Home karaoke has never been so good. This pedestal design karaoke player features a built in iPod dock for quickly syncing and

Karaoke machines have made quite a dramatic revolution in recent years. Where once you would find machines that only played cassette tapes, now they are based on CD technology and even more models are coming out with DVD capabilities. It’s an exciting time to be in the market for a home karaoke machine. But one thing a lot of people are worried about is how much setting up a karaoke room can cost. In truth, they are right to be concerned because a home karaoke room can end up spiralling well above the thousand-dollar range if restraint is not exercised. It is incredibly easy to go overboard with your spending when you want to set up the best karaoke room. But if your budget is limited, it is entirely possible to enjoy a home karaoke regardless of your financial situation. Here are some tips to get the most economic karaoke experience possible.

1. Remember that something that is more expensive isn’t necessarily better. You might get more features with a costly model, but a lot of people end up not knowing how to use them. There’s no point in getting a complicated karaoke machine that is extremely difficult to figure out. There are many basic machines on the market that are very easy to set up and play right out of the box. They provide the two basic functions of good sound and music playing ability, and in the end that’s all you really need. A karaoke DVD machine is a great way to save money since you get two features for the price of one.

2. The more features that your karaoke machine has the more expensive it will be, so you’ll have to ask yourself exactly what you need. You can save a lot of money by getting the most basic type of machine without a display or standalone speakers. All you have to do is hook up your main machine to the biggest television in your house and you’re ready to go with something that can display the lyrics along with providing decent sound.

3. There is more than one way to buy a karaoke machine so don’t limit yourself to looking on the Internet, or even your local electronics store. There is always someone looking to sell their old karaoke system, and this is a great way to find some bargains. In the end you might not just be getting a karaoke machine, but someone’s complete music collection as well. Also be on the lookout for sets that include an extra karaoke microphone and sampler CDs. When you buy everything in one box you can save a lot of money as opposed to buying each piece separately. More karaoke information can be found at http://karaokemachineguide.com/.

The Different Types Of Ball Machines

admin — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 02:13:58 +0000

Jugs Small-Ball Pitching Machine

Runs on regular 110-volt AC or optional battery pack, manual and automatic feed…25 ball feeder releases ball every 5 seconds…adjustable legs for realistic height for both baseball and

Lobster Sports Elite Freedom Battery Powered Tennis Ball Machine

Lobster Elite Freedom Battery Powered Tennis Ball Machine Designed for maximum durability, the Lobster Elite Battery Powered Freedom Ball Machine offers features that are not found on any machine in

There are various cricket, tennis ball and ping pong ball machines in the market. There are so many choices that one might easily be confused when buying a machine. Recently, the release of two new models by Silent Partners caught the attention of many sports players. This is because the new tennis ball machines offer the convenience that was lacking in older models.

These new ball machines offer speed and spin controls which are very desirable for enhancing play. These machines provide speeds that range from 10 miles per hour (Mph) to 85 Mph. The spin controls allow top spin and backspin for better tossing. In terms of feed control, they have a full stop option and a rapid fire option for fast throwing. These machines also have random oscillators to vary the direction at which the balls are thrown.

Full operation requires standard batteries, which allow a maximum playtime of two hours. Smart battery chargers may be provided together with some models. Many new machines also have a 200-ball capacity which allows for continuous play. The machines usually have 6 rolling wheels, with a handle which is readily accessible.

Prices

A new machine can cost as much as $699 but used series and some newer models may cost less, as exemplified by advertisements in the Internet. The disadvantage of buying used models is that the quality may not be at par with the new models. Fortunately, the prospective buyer can compare prices and specifications through the Web.

Where to Buy

The Internet is a smart and flexible marketplace. It provides comprehensive information on different ball machine options. The upper limit of cricket, ping-pong and tennis product prices may range from $1200 to $2000. It is therefore imperative for a buyer looking for the best deal by browsing and comparing different machines in various shops. There are excellent used machines which offer the same quality as that of new ball machines but at a lower price. It is highly advisable for buyers to browse various websites in order to gather the right information that will lead to the best ball machine for their given budget.

Bakugan are one of the Most Popular Boys Toys

admin — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 02:05:57 +0000

Bakugan Dragonoid Colossus

Perfect for reading aloud and encouraging early word recognition, these books are great for babies who love to explore shape and texture. Every bright, bold page has a fun flap to lift and there are colorful tabs

Bakugan Brawlers Game Pack (Colors/Styles Vary)

Bakugan Gundalian Invaders S3 Brawler Game Pack w/Battle Turbine and Rock Hammer.

Bakugan 7 in 1 Maxus Dragonoid

Bakugan 7 in 1 Figure – Maxus Dragonoid

Have you heard of the Bakugan Battle Brawlers game or TV show? If not, where have you been? It is one of the most popular boys toys of recent years. The game seems complicated at first but is pretty straight forward. Young kids learn how to play it easily so it should not be too hard for parents to get a handle on it.

What are Bakugan?

These little things are kind of like Transformers. However instead of having to change their form yourself, they are magnetized. So when they come into contact with a metallic surface they pop open into their warrior form. These toys can be enjoyed in this fashion. But they were designed to be used in the Bakugan game.

What is the Bakugan Game?

To be a true Bakugan Battle Brawler you have to enter into battle. The game is usually played between two players who fight to win Gate Cards. The first person to win three cards wins the game. Game play revolves around taking turns trying to roll your Bakugan balls on to the metallic gate cards. Then when there is a warrior from either team on one gate card then a fight may commence.

The winner of the fight is determined by G-Power score. Each Bakugan has one printed on it. Then added to this number is a figure from the gate card. The number to add depends upon the “attribute” or home world of the Bakugan you are fighting with. The player with the highest score once the numbers have been added together is the winner.

I want to play

To start playing this game it is best to get a Bakugan Battle Pack because it offers great value and contains enough characters and cards for two people to have a game. This means that you can enjoy it with your son!

Choosing Good Quality Pull Toys

admin — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:10:00 +0000

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Frolicking Frog Pull Toy

Watch this friendly froggie playfully “hop” up and down and wiggle its eyes when pulled along. This delightful wooden push toy is classically styled, yet uniquely designed with entertaining motions.

Melissa & Doug Playful Puppy Pull Toy

18 months & up. Puppy cheerfully wobbles along and wags its tail when pulled! Hardwood toy with non-skid wheels.

The World of Eric Carle The Very Hungry Caterpillar Wood Pull Toy

Bring the Very Hungry Caterpillar to life with this fun and well made wooden pull toy.

Once your child takes his first steps it’s a great idea to give him a pull toy to help him become more confident in walking and for the fun! As we all know toys meant for toddlers need to be very tough as they are going to take a lot of abuse so you will want to buy a good quality toy that is durable and will last. We’ve looked at a range of pull toys t find the best ones available today.

Thomas and Friends Carnival Fun Pull Along

This pull toy is very popular and children love it. It is well made and durable and great fun! Two cars are pulled behind Thomas, a topsy turvey clown and a balancing elephant.

As the toy is pulled along it plays music or makes train sounds, the clown and elephant also move. The cars are attached with a peg to the train that will help your child develop manipulation skills. The Thomas and Friends Carnival Fun Pull Along is one of our favorite pull toys.

PlanToys Pull-Along Zebra

We like PlanToys environmentally friendly philosophy as they make all their wooden toys from renewable sources. All their toys are designed to give a good learning experience and to encourage the imagination as well as being durable and functional.

The Pull-Along Zebra is one of their bestselling pull toys with bright colours and durable wooden construction. As it is pulled along the head nods up and down. A durable, well made fun pull toy!

Fisher-Price Sort & Roll School Bus

Fisher-Price have a reputation for durable, well designed toys and the Sort & Roll School Bus is no exception. It is a pull toy with a host of other activities such as shaped blocks, flashing lights, sound effects, fun activities and more. In addition to being able to pull it along it can also be changed to allow your child t sit on it. A versatile, fun toy!

Good quality pull toys will be fun for your child and be durable enough to pass down to younger siblings. You can see more toys at Cheap Toys for Sale

Toys to Look Out for This Year

admin — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 20:32:51 +0000

Baby Einstein Bendy Ball

No description available

Baby Einstein Octoplush

No description available

Manhattan Toy Snuggle Pod, Pea

No description available

Now that we are entering the second half of the year, toy makers everywhere are starting to ramp up production to get their toy lines up to speed to prepare for the inevitable Christmas onslaught. As with every other retail sector, the winter period is the busiest time of the year. 2009 was a great year for toy makers over Christmas, with the global recession not impacting on sales as much as some had expected. For 2010 you can expect to see the follow toys do quite well:

An unusual thing to appear in Christmas lists some might say, but the Banzai Curve water park is sure to do well this year. A massive water slide designed for lots of kids to play on in the back yard, the makers of the Wipeout Curve have dubbed the item a Water Park. With a built in water cannon, paddling pool, and climbing wall, they may have a point. The Curve offers a lot of features that other rival water slides don’t offer, and it also has the advantage of being made by Banzai, a company with a proven track record of making interesting slides that kids love. This particular model’s main attraction is the curved slide which bends 180 degrees to loop back in on itself into the paddling pool, with water jet sprays on the upper arches over the slide. It may be expensive, but many children will be looking for this item as a gift this year.

Next up there are a range of toys that have already been successful in 2009 – the My Pillow Pets range. Featuring a loveable selection of cuddly characters for kids to hug and hold, the Pillow Pets brand is hoping to have another successful year over the winter period. Last year prices were massively inflated over the recommended retail when the company making them failed to produce enough to cope with the massive demand.

Many more toys have been made this year so hopefully kids won’t have to go without. The most likely toy to succeed with kids this year is My Pillow Pets Panda – a loveable panda that folds down into a soft plush pillow by unbuckling the adhesive strip on his belly. Since they are so cute and cuddly, kids have no problems at all playing with these toys, and the company responsible for making them truly hopes that 2010 will bring a similar level of success in line with last year.