#1 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Fisher-Price Elmo Live

Fisher-Price Elmo Live
From Fisher Price

#1 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Fisher-Price Elmo Live

Customer Reviews

My kid is scared of it
My son is 21 months old, and he loves Elmo. When he sees Elmo on TV, he always wants to hug the TV. He has other stuffed Elmos that he always carries around and hugs. However, this Elmo Live completely scares him. I think it is the lifelike movement. I know every child is different, but this thing completely freaks mine out.

The problem with this toy is that it is way too LOUD. The voice is too loud and the gears grinding are much too loud. There is no volume control.

Additionally, the phrases and jokes and movements are so repetitive. I've been trying to get it to do different things just to see if there is anything about this toy that my son enjoys, and I've failed.

My son likes this toy best when Elmo is silent. But I don't need to spend $60 on an Elmo that isn't even all that soft.

He's Cute, Funny, and Animated!
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RDTHY14RSOMYW Elmo Live will capture your child's imagination with his trademark infectious happiness. He waves his arms, dances, sits on his stool, tells jokes and stories, shows your child how much he loves him/her, laughs, sneezes -- everything you would expect an animated Elmo to do. Other than some mechanical grinding as he moves, Elmo is all cute. This little guy is a blast!

-- Debbie Lee Wesselmann

Elmo Live Doll
I received this very quickly and as described...brand new. I wish I had shopped for a better price as I see these online for half the price I paid.

Product Description

Is it live or is it Elmo Live? For the first time ever, in this truly life-like creation, Elmo really appears to be speaking as his mouth opens and closes just like a muppet. His mannerisms are right on target and his head bobbles back and forth as he speaks. Elmo waves his arms, sits and stands, and even crosses his legs while telling stories and jokes, singing songs and playing games. Children can activate the magic with a tickle or a squeeze of Elmo's foot, tummy, back or nose. Requires 6 "AA" batteries, included. Measures 12" tall.

Moving, Talking, Dancing Elmo!
Elmo Live! features the furry, bright-red exterior and the big eyes characteristic of the popular Sesame Street character. He features complex actions that give him a life-like quality: His mouth and head move while he talks, sings, and tells stories; he gestures with his arms, and he moves his legs. He even crosses his legs when he sits on the included stool.

We found him very easy to play with -- just press his buttons to get him going. Press Elmo's foot and he will sit down on his stool to tell you a story. He even gestures to act out parts of his stories! Squeeze his nose, and he'll make a variety of silly sounds; he'll even ask you if you "have his nose" and ask you to give it back to him. Squeeze his hand, and he'll dance. Elmo even blows kisses, asks for hugs, and says he loves you. He tells jokes, acts ticklish, and more.

When he's laid on his back, or if your child doesn't play with him for a while, Elmo will go into a battery-save mode. He'll yawn, say he's tired, and shut down. Just press one of his buttons to get him going again.

Interactive Fun for Kids of Many Ages
We particularly enjoyed that, unlike some other "talking" toys, Elmo Live! doesn't just spout programmed phrases. Instead, he asks for interaction, and he responds as if your child is responding to him. For example, when he will ask for a hug and then say "thank you" as if he's received one, or he'll say he's ticklish and then will "respond" as if your child is tickling him. This makes an almost magical experience for your child, as if her toy is really coming to life.

The wide variety of things that Elmo Live! can do makes him a great toy to grow with your child. Younger children can engage in cause-and-effect play by simply pressing Elmo's buttons to see what he does. Our two-year-old tester was especially delighted with the silly sounds Elmo makes when his nose is squeezed. Understandably, her attention meandered during the somewhat lengthy stories. However, an older child will have the attention span and comprehension skills to appreciate them, as well as the silly jokes that Elmo tells.

Tips on Playing with Elmo! Live
Elmo makes lots of fun movements and gestures -- the only slight drawback is that his movements generate a somewhat loud, mechanical sound that sometimes interferes with being able to understand what Elmo is saying. He also has to be on a hard, flat surface -- otherwise he has a tendency to fall over. This in itself has a fun effect, however. When he falls over, Elmo asks you to help him back up again, and when he's put back upright, he'll say "thank you." Also, since his nose has to be squeezed with a bit of force to activate him, our two-year-old tester sometimes needed assistance with it

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#2 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup

Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup
From Hasbro

#2 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup
Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup is rocketed on to the OFFICIAL 2008 top Christmas list

Customer Reviews

Biscuit, Your "FurReal" Dog - Expensive, But WORTH IT!
Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup is a very fun robotic dog. Unlike most dogs, this one actually listens to you when you give a command, and that's without you having to offer it treat after treat! True, there are other robotic toys on the market that are less expensive. But this is the only such toy that I've seen that actually comes close to looking and acting like a real dog. Granted, it's not going to fool anybody, because it's obviously a mechanical toy. But it's real enough that kids will be able to play with it like a real dog. It moves and reacts to your commands smoothly and it's pretty hard not to smile when you see it in action. That alone will be reason enough for many people to buy it this year.

The holidays make us buy some strange products. I like to research every gift I give, and test them where possible. If it's not as good as advertised I can return it and save the recipient the hassle of having to exchange it. This is one gift that is bound to please, particularly during those holiday parties where groups of kids are wrecking havoc on your home or searching for something to play with.

When the package first arrived, I was surprised by how large the box is. I thought there might be a lot of empty space, but the dog is sitting there staring blankly ahead when you open up the box. Clearly, that's another difference between biscuit and other toys I've seen: this dog is much bigger than any other robotic animal I know of.

Obviously, many kids want dogs and not all of them can have one. This is clearly a lot less work than a real dog. Similarly, many will see this toy and want it, despite the fact that not all parents are going to spend this kind of money on a toy. This is clearly too much to spend on a *surprise gift* if you're not sure whether your kid wants one. But this product will end up on a lot of wish-lists.

PROS:
+ Probably the largest, most realistic robotic dog you can buy
+ Dog responds with great reactions to 7 standard commands and questions, including:
----- lie down
----- give me a paw (one of the cutest!)
----- shake
----- sit
----- do you want a treat? (guess what his answer is :-D)
----- speak
----- sit up and BEG! (I love being able to tell him that!)
+ Commands are all listed on the back of his collar, so younger kids can learn them easily
+ If you command him to do something he's already doing, he will give you that confused look real dogs do - You have to see this to appreciate it!
+ Dog also responds to touch with numerous sensors around his body, including touch sensors on his nose, head, ears, back and paw and a light sensor in his forehead
+ The different modes, including Play, Response, and Hangout Mode, provide subtle reactions that make the dog seem even more real
+ Soft plush body means that kids can play with him in comfort, worry free (no sharp edges)
+ Comes with kids accessories, like a collar, brush and a biscuit
+ The included *certificate* gives your kids a sense of ownership, like with a real pet
+ Simple, easy to follow instructions will have him barking in no time!

CONS:
- List price isn't a great value; many will have to search for this on sale this holiday
- Would have been nice if the dog followed you around a little more
- Limited varieties, and only this one in this size; When they make the Rottweiler, I'm in!
- Requires 6 D Batteries, that are not included; Seriously? D Batteries? I haven't had to break those out since I retired my boom box from the 80s. Buy some rechargeable batteries and a nice charger, because the price of batteries add up
- Would have been nice if they would have included a standard rechargeable battery pack instead
- Battery pouch is closed by Velcro, which seems like kids could open or rip too easily

THE MODES

Ok, so let's say you're done playing with him and you leave biscuit alone. Eventually he will enter "hangout mode" and seek attention by barking and whimpering. And if you turn out the lights or don't respond, he will eventually go to sleep! There are other subtleties to this you will have to see for yourself. Be advised though, it's probably a good idea not to leave him with the batteries in forever. But it's definitely a nice shock when you turn on the light and see him "wake up" at least the one time!

CONCLUSION

This is a very nice step forward in these types of robotic toys. And if you have a group of kids at your house for the holiday, this could save you some babysitting time. You just have to tune out the barking and your kids will have a ball with him.

The price is definitely a little steep. Plan ahead this holiday, because this toy is bound to be on sale at the major toy retailers and maybe here on Amazon too.

Enjoy!

Warning--if you don't want your kid to know you bought it
Bought this for Santa to bring to my 5 year old so I can't say how good the toy itself is, but Beware the package. Everything else I've ordered here came in a plain brown shipping box. Not this--I came home and it was sitting on the porch-no cover--fully exposed pictures, name, and all. I cannot express how upset I would have been if my daughter had been with me or at home when it was delivered. Luckily she was at school and I could hide it before she got home. This would have been an awfully expensive gift to have to give a month before Christmas-not to mention---what would santa bring then?

If you are ordering this be careful when or where it is delivered.

I'll let you know how good/bad Biscuit is after Christmas. If it's all I've heard it is I may play with it more than my daughter does.

Product Description

This ultra-realistic FurReal pup is the perfect first pet for any little girl or boy. Biscuit responds to you and obeys six different commands: sit, lie down, sit up, beg and speak. He'll also give you a paw when you ask if he wants a treat. Biscuit's soft, cuddly fur and puppy-dog eyes will instantly win you over. Sitting pup measures 21" tall. Requires six "D" batteries, not included.

Features

• Playtime is going to the dogs and this playful pooch is leading the charge! The lovable mutt features voice recognition, obeying six commands, including, “Sit”, “Speak”, and “Lie down”
• Tell your furry friend to give you his paw and he’ll raise his right or left paw ask him if he wants a treat, and he’ll nod and whimper to let you know he’s ready for his dog “bone”
• Biscuit my lovin’ pup pet will even “shake” at your command, lifting his paw to your hand or sit up and beg, just like a real pup
• Biscuit my lovin’ pup pet wags his tail and barks, too, to let you know he’s ready to play
• Use the special adoption certificate to register your pet online and ensure that you and this adorable pup will be friends forever pup pet comes with collar, tag, brush, dog “bone” and adoption certificate

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#3 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Wild Planet Hyper Dash

Wild Planet Hyper Dash
From Wild Planet

#3 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Wild Planet Hyper Dash

Customer Reviews

Great game for anyone!
Bought this game as a gift for my nieghbors birthday. I wanted something that would get them moving and do something other than staring at the tv. Well, this did it! It was the only present that they played with immediately! It's a really great concept, and fun to watch the kids scrambling to get the numbers. My neighbors started to hide the discs upstairs too, to add to the advenutre. Definately reccomend this gift for anyone who is looking for something fun and adventurous! Can't wait to take it outside and play- wonder how fun it would be in the snow!

Kids didn't dig it
I see there is now a "double" hyperdash and I think this may have made a difference for us. My kids just didn't get into it. Also, it stopped working after just a few uses. Still, I love the idea and think my kids may just be too young for it -- they are 6 and 3.

Product Description

It's the electronic game that's as fast as you are. Test your speed and agility in a race against time using five targets and an electronic handheld unit. To start, set up your targets on the table, around the room, around the house or throughout the yard. Then, follow the announcer's commands as you zip around your racecourse to tag your targets with the handheld unit. The fastest time wins. Features four game modes that challenge your speed, skill, memory, coordination and teamwork. Includes ergonomically designed Hyper Dash unit and five labelled targets. Requires 3 "AAA" batteries, not included. Measures 4.5"L x 12"W x 10"H.

Four-Games-in-One
The original game, Hyper Dash, features the Hyper Voice calling out commands. Four different levels allow the players' skills to progress. Level one includes only colors in the calls. The calls on level two are a little faster and include both colors and numbers, while level three adds special commands like "Double Strike," "Triple Strike," and "Reverse. " Level four features the "CompuStrike" call, which require kids to solve basic math problems, such as "four plus one" or "three minus two. "

In Team Dash, a special command indicates when the Hyper Dash unit should be handed off, turning the race against the clock into a relay. The games Micro Dash and Team Micro Dash set out sequences that get progressively longer and trickier, providing a challenging test of memory.

The Hyper Dash unit keeps track of times and scores, and the Hyper Voice announces the winner at the end of the game, cutting down on arguments. With only one Hyper Dash tagger, kids will have to wait their turn to play in multiple player games. This can be both a lesson in patience and an opportunity to cheer others on.

RFID Technology for a Flexible, Durable Game
Hyper Dash uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to recognize the targets. The same technology is used to track packages and to identify books and DVDs in many libraries. This means that a wireless signal connects the Hyper Dash unit and the targets, so there's no need to strike targets with force.

While the Hyper Dash tagger unit seems incredibly durable, it is made of plastic. Just because RFID technology means kids can tag targets lightly, it doesn't mean they will. Our one concern about the game is the possibility that hard play will damage the tagger over time.

With RFID, there's no limit to how far apart you set the targets. You can set them up at opposite ends of a football field for a serious test of endurance, or close together requiring fancy footwork. You can even them up next to each other to see who has the quickest hands. This flexibility makes Hyper Dash appropriate for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#4 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Bakugan Battle Pack

Bakugan Battle Pack (Styles and Colors May Vary)
From Spinmaster

#4 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Bakugan Battle Pack

Customer Reviews

Buying Information for this toy
I looked all over our city for this and it is sold out everywhere but I was in Sams Club and they have a bonus pack for $26 which has the travel mat included. Just alittle cheaper than some of the internet pricing I've seen. Toys get popular, prices double. Its shameful.

Mom of 3 boys
Never saw a bigger smile on my 6 year olds face. The marbles do damage quite easily so one must be careful with them.

Bakugan pack
This is exactly what my son was looking for. The product was in great shape & shipped fast.
I was so pleased because you just can't find these in the store. He plays it all of the time.
Playing the game involves a constant adding & subtracting of #s - perfect for a 4th grade boy

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review
The popular and fun anime TV series "Bakugan Battle Brawlers" has spawned this strategic game that pits a variety of "Bakugan warriors" -- such as "Juggernoids," "Fear rippers," and "Robatallians" -- against each other for points. With this Bakugan Battle Pack, kids 4 and above will enjoy the challenge of earning points by rolling their Bakugan (or shooting them from a launcher) onto magnetic cards where the plastic spheres burst open to reveal the fearsome warrior apparatus inside. Kids will also love the way the Bakugan transform suddenly into warrior mode, and fans of the show will have an especially good time with the game.

Inside each plastic sphere is a fearsome warrior apparatus. View larger.

There are many colors and varieties of Bakugan to collect. View larger.

What We Think Fun Factor: Durability: (what this means) The Good: Wide variety of Bakugan make them fun for kids to trade and collect The Bad: No instructions with some toys In a Nutshell: Clever and exciting interactive game that kids will enjoy even if they're not familiar with the TV show At a Glance Ages: 4 and up

NOTE: The Bakugan Battle Pack includes a random selection of six Bakugan warriors. It also includes eight metal cards and instructions. It does not include the optional Bakugan Launcher.

Ready, Set, Play!
The mission of Bakugan game play is to battle against other Bakugan to win the points awarded on the cards by getting your Bakugan to land on card. Players will love pretending to be one of the various characters in the show, such as the fiery 12-year-old leader "Dan" or the wise "Marucho," and they gain a deeper understanding of the cards and warriors as they play.

The Battle Pack includes instructions, making it an ideal way for newbies to get started with this fun and exciting game. The game itself is fairly straightforward, but if your child has never played before, you might have to help him or her to understand the rules -- after reading and understanding them yourself. While some of the plastic Bakugan pieces are small and could easily get lost, others, like the Bakugan Deka, are as big as a softball.

If your child is already a Bakugan fan, the Battle Pack is a good investment. This set comes with six randomly selected Bakugan and eight magnetic cards. Your child will love how this set dramatically increases their collection of Bakugan! He or she can also use the Battle Pack to play with his friends who might not have any Bakugan of their own.

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#5 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Fisher-Price Smart Cycle

Fisher-Price Smart Cycle
From Fisher Price

Features

• Smart Cycle is a Plug & Play (TV), Hardware/Software system. The child can customize his/her vehicle on screen (color/model etc.) and explore different themes (environments) that are sold separately.
• Games reinforce important preschool concepts like letters, numbers, shapes and colors. Child's favorite character friends offer help and encouragement during game play.
• In Explore/ Encounter mode, the child pedals to drive through various environments, learning on the way.
• In Arcade Games mode, the child can take a pit stop into an arcade game that is played with the joystick.
• The toy comes with the Learning Journey software and other themes sold separately, which include Dora's Jungle Safari, Sponge Bob's ocean adventures, Hotwheels, Barbie, Space and Dinoland

Product Description

Smart Cycle plugs right into your TV, ready to take kids on learning adventures like no other. As they pedal, favorite character friends guide them through learning discoveries, games and even exciting races. Other activities don't require pedaling at all. Includes Learning Adventure game cartridge with 3 ways to play:

1) Drive, steer and learn at your own pace--visit Math Mountain, Shape Lake, Number Fields, Letter Creek and other stops along the way.

2) Learn, stop and rest, but don't stop learning! Use the joystick to reinforce important learning skills with plenty of games and activities with different levels for growing kids.

3) Race--put the pedal to the metal as you race with cars on-screen, against the clock, or with another player.

Includes Learning Journey software and the other themes sold separately include: Nick Jr.Dora the Explorer Friendship Adventure, Nick Jr.Go Diego Go! Diego's Animal Rescue, Discover the Dinosaurs, Nickelodeon SpongeBob Squarepants Ocean Adventure, Hot Wheels Barbie Fairytopia.

Developmental Benefits: Teaches: upper & lowercase letters, numbers & counting, spelling, problem-solving, shapes, matching, creativity, spatial reasoning, motor skills & lots more! Requires 4 "D" batteries, not included. Measures 26.7"L x 18.5"W x 25.1"H. Weight Capacity 200 lbs.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review
Just because it's raining, snowing or otherwise blustery outside, that doesn't mean that your child can't get the exercise she needs. The Fisher Price Smart Cycle combines the fun indoor activity of video game playing with the physical activity the great outdoors will give you. Designed for kids ages three to six, the Smart Cycle "physical learning arcade system" is an all-in-one stationary bike, video game console, and educational tool. Your little one will exercise her brain and her body -- and have loads of fun in the process.

The Smart Cycle combines the fun indoor activity of video game playing with the physical activity of the great outdoors. View larger. View product demo (requires Flash).

By using the bike's joy stick and buttons, your child can navigate through many other games and adventures. View larger.

Pedal and steer your way through different environments. View larger.

The Smart Cycle games provide different levels for growing kids. View larger.

Turn on your TV and Start your Engines!
The Smart Cycle plugs directly into your VCR or TV and requires no need for a separate game system. Simply connect the Smart Cycle to your television's input jacks, insert the included game cartridge "key," and your child can start riding -- and learning -- right away! Your child pedals the bike to keep the game going and "steers" with the movable handlebars. A large, easy-to-use and conveniently placed joy stick and bright buttons control the games and educational tools.

The Smart Cycle comes with a "learning adventure," in which your child drives a car by pedaling the bike and turning the handlebars. She can splash through mud puddles and take treacherous corners as she tries to catch letters of the alphabet along the road. She'll learn to keep pedaling to keep moving, while at the same time learning her alphabet!

Versatility Adds to the Fun
The Smart Cycle includes a game cartridge that features several fun and educational adventures that will keep your child happily entertained. A trip to "Math Mountain" will help her practice her numbers, while an adventure-filled trek to "Shape Lake" will introduce her to a wide array of different shapes. The Smart Cycle also includes an exciting car racing game that two children can play at the same time, while a "creative journal" lets your child create pictures and snapshots of her "worldwide" travels.

The fun doesn't have to stop when your child gets her fill of exercise: she can stop and rest, and continue the fun and learning by using the bike's joy stick and buttons to navigate through many other games and adventures. And best of all, several optional game cartridges that can be used with the Smart Cycle (sold separately) will keep your child continually entertained, including games that feature favorite characters such as Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, Barbie, and Hot Wheels cars.

With its wide array of games and height-adjustable seat, the Smart Cycle is designed to grow with your child. So as your child grows both physically and intellectually, the Smart Cycle will grow with her.

The Ultimate Test Drive
We found the Smart Cycle easy to assemble and very simple to install with our television set. All we needed for assembly was a Phillips screwdriver and four "D" batteries (not included). As long as your television or VCR is equipped with the red, white, and yellow RCA jacks to connect the Smart Cycle, you're set to go. We simply connected the included plugs to the television's jacks, turned the television on, and we were ready for hours of fun. Once the game started, the cycle seemed easy enough to operate, making it not too much of a challenge to result in frustrating a child, but not so easy that it would soon become boring. With the additional optional game cartridges, we believe the Smart Cycle promises to be a long-lasting source of entertainment.

The Smart Cycle comes with an easy-to-follow instruction manual, and the set-up only took a few minutes. However, one minor set-back we experience was that we needed the paper instruction manual on hand to understand how to play the video game; we found some elements of the games to be nearly impossible to understand without the instructions. An intuitive set of online instructions designed for children to follow, without the need to consult a paper manual, would make for a near-ideal gaming experience for any child (and parent). Also, although the seat offers four height levels, the handlebars are not height adjustable, which may present a problem for some smaller children.

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#6 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - LeapFrog® Leapster® Learning Game System - Green

LeapFrog® Leapster® Learning Game System - Green
From LeapFrog

Customer Reviews

Great Item!
My son loves his leapster. There are a great deal of games that he is able to play that are fun and educational. And it works great on airplanes.

Ethans review
I have a leapster, and I like it. It's green, and it's got lotsa games inside it, and you can put more in the top of it. I got the doggie game, the one where you wash and pet your dog, and I like it alot, and I got the one where you make creatures, and make rooms for them to live in. I have a case, and you always have to make sure when you go somewhere, you have the game inside 'cause if you get someplace, and you only got the case, and no leapster in it, it's not as much fun. I like my mom's Pretendo (Nintendo), but mine has more games for a little boy. I think it's a good game for kids, My mom is getting me the Spongebob game for the car ride to Disneyland.
(Review dictated to mama by Ethan, who is four)

Product Description

Now parents and kids can both feel good about time spent playing electronic games with the Leapster Learning System by LeapFrog. An exciting library of educational games (sold separately) turn this handheld device into a conduit of exciting learning adventures that teaches reading, math, critical thinking, vocabulary and more. Kids can play fun games, read electronic books, create cool art and watch interactive videos. Color display on backlit screen is gentle on the eyes while the jack for optional headphones is gentle on other people's ears. Ages 4 to 10 years. Imported.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Here is one handheld gaming system that both parents and kids will be able to agree upon. The Leapster Learning Game System takes the brain-building principles that Leapfrog laid out in its earlier electronic learning devices (which have an interactive book format) and applies them to a video-game format. Leapster draws kids in with familiar video game templates—all of which have a secret weapon: a built-in learning component. LeapFrog hopes that kids will become so engaged in the gaming aspects and familiar television and movie characters offered by this toy that they won’t even notice that they’re learning and reinforcing valuable reading, math, and language skills.

Aimed at 4- to 10-year-olds, the 6-by-4-inch Leapster is sized for little hands and comfortably shaped with safe, rounded edges. The 2-1/4-inch touch screen is ample for most of the gaming activities; although a little cluttered when used for the art and drawing modules. Buttons are suitably placed on either side of the unit for thumb-operated control. The right side features "A" and "B" buttons for selecting settings and answers while the left has a multi-directional gamepad for game play. A pen is also attached for drawing, selecting tools and settings, and dragging and placing objects. The 3-inch backlit display makes games visible in the dark (although parents will prefer that the Leapster is shut off at bedtime) and the animated graphics, while not completely state-of-the-art are well done and suitable for this age range.

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

#7 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Bakugan Battle Arena

Bakugan Battle Arena
From SpinMaster

Good Xmas Gift. My 10 year old Grandson LOVES these. He takes them everywhere, which is nice for travel (no computer required!).

Customer Reviews

The Battle Arena: Get Ready for Battle
Do you really need a Bakugan Battle Arena? Not necessarily. You can play on a coffee table with books bordering the four sides to prevent the figures from rolling off. Is it more fun to play when you have one? Yes. The bumpers are solid and the surface is uniform.

This is a 9 piece table that is easy to assemble 2 bumpers on each side that snap in, while the table folds out. At the far corners are the openings to shoot your Bakugan figures. The bumpers keep the marbles in play, instead of rolling off of the table to be devoured by an overzealous pet (such as my dog, for example).

You set your Gate cards away from you. The youngest player shoots first and then each player takes turns shooting their figures. Instructions on how to play are included with the Arena (in English and French - Impressive).

SETUP:
Take about 1 minute or less. Takedown is easier.

NOTATIONS:

NO BAKUGAN FIGURES ACCOMPANY THIS TOY. You will need a Battle Brawlers Pack or Starter Pack to play on this arena. Do not just give the Arena unless your prospective 'player' has the figures.

COST:

It costs $30 retail but can be purchased from Amazon for a lot less and you can get free shipping.

VERDICT:

Two thumbs up on the arena. It really does add to the ambiance of gameplay.

Minnie's treasure
I purchased this toy for my Grandson. When he saw this toy advertised he told me he'd "Been wanting this All his life". He's only six, but I guess when your that age it seems like a long time. He thoroughly enjoys setting up the battleground and playing the game. Even though he is young he understands the action and he and his friends have a great time playing when the weather is not conducive to outdoor play.

destined for a garage sale
This is not a bad product, but my 7 year old son has one and rarely uses it. Bakugan is the kind of game that you can just whip out and play on a table or the floor, the plastic arena is not needed. Just think about how many more Bakugan you could buy for the price of the arena!

Product Description

Answer the call to brawl and decide the fate of the galaxy. These small spheres magnetically morph into powerful Bakugan warriors when they roll onto the real metal Gate Cards. Use strategy to place your metal Gate Cards effectively as each card affects the battle differently. Then master your precision shooting skills to roll your Bakugan into battle and win. Cards and figures not included.

#8 Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Hasbro Electronic Hyper Slide

Hasbro Electronic Hyper Slide
From Hasbro Games

Top Christmas Toys 2008 Hasbro Electronic Hyper Slide This is an engaging toy for hours of fun with single or double players..

Customer Reviews

Addictively Fun for Every Age
Everyone from our 8 year old through our high school cousins right up to my husband and I - love this game. It's got three settings. One is sliding the chips underneath (by yourself or with a partner) based on the color they call out. They keep track of how many you achieve in a set period of time. They call out the record for this round and keep the all time record. This seems like a great way to learn your colors. For our gang it is a test of reflexes, and completely addictive. You can't believe how much you want to break those reoords. They also have a game where you try to break a four color code. They track how long it takes you. For those of us who are more into puzzles then reaction time -this give us a game to hold a record in. The final game is where they keep adding a color and you have to memorize the order - kind of like Simon. Great memory game. Lots of laughter - fun for adults, teens and children to play together and everyone is challenged!

Not as popular as I hoped
I thought this game looked really fun. My kids immediately lost the single player net, and then only played this a couple of times. Easy storage, parts store easily in the main unit.

Product Description

Be quick as you flick, slide or shoot the different-colored hyper discs under the arch. As the game unit calls out the sequence of colors for you to pass, the game "knows" if you've passed the right disc or not. Pass 'em fast before the buzzer blasts! Obey the voice commands, get your brain in the game and break the code, or guess which color will be called next. Play with a friend or practice solo.

Tabletop slide-and-pass excitement features electronic lights and sounds, plus an announcer's voice that talks you through three fast-sliding game modes. Electronic game unit comes with four Hyper Discs, each a different color; plus Hyper Band and instructions. Requires 3 "AA" batteries (not included). For 1 or 2 players.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Be quick, pick the right colored hyper disc, and flick it under the arch before time runs out. The Hyper Slide from Hasbro packs three fast-paced electronic table-top games into one compact unit. Recommended for ages eight and up, these fast-sliding games for one or two players are fun and exciting for kids and adults.

The hyper discs can be conveniently stored in a compartment on the side of the arch. View larger.

Three fast-paced electronic table-top games in one stylish unit. View larger.

Fun, Futuristic Table Top Game
With its sleek, arched design, Hyper Slide looks like a futuristic game. Resembling a hockey game for a table top, the object is to flip the pucks through the goal. However, in these games the goal can be scored from both sides of the arch, and there are four different-colored pucks, called hyper discs. The game's electronic unit calls out a color, and you must pick that color and sent it through the arc. It automatically detects whether you've passed the right disc or not. When not in operation, the hyper discs can be conveniently stored in a compartment on the side of the arch.

Three Games for Solo Play or Two-Person Play
The Hyper Slide offers a few variations of play for your enjoyment. Two lighted buttons on the top of the Hyper Slide make it easy to choose which of the three games you want to play.

While the objects of the games are simple, playing them can be a fun challenge. The first game, "Fast Pass," is all about speed. The game commands a color and you've got to pass it through the goal quickly before the buzzer blasts. With "Add One," you've got to remember the order of colors. You start with a color and add one to the sequence each time you complete a round. "Code Buster" gives you 90 seconds to decipher the secret series of colors.

Best of all, you can play all these games with a friend or by yourself. With both "Fast Pass" and "Add One," you can even play head-to-head with another player or team. For solo play, the rubber "hyper band" is attached under the arch, bouncing the discs back to your side.

Put to the Test
Playing on any smooth, nonmetal surface, you'll be surprised how much fun the Hyper Slide really is. An announcer's voice, high-energy music, and sound effects move these games along. With your head in the game, you'll soon block out all the noise and only hear the color to flick, slide, or shoot through the arch. Unfortunately, if the constant voice directions are not your thing, the game can't be played without these sounds, nor can the volume be adjusted. On the plus side, the Hyper Slide announces your score at the end of each competition and keeps track of the highest score for each game. This electronic system runs on three "AAA" batteries (sold separately). If the Hyper Slide goes unused for two minutes, this smartly designed toy "goes to sleep," saving battery life until the player buttons are pressed.

Pros

• 3 fast-paced games for 2-person and solo play
• Lighted buttons make it easy to switch through games
• Games remember high scores
• Electronic game shuts off on its own

Cons

• Game must be played with announcer and music going
• Volume can't be controlled

Ref: Christmas Popular Toys

9th of Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Hasbro Playskool Busy Ball Popper

Hasbro Playskool Busy Ball Popper
From Hasbro

Customer Reviews

Surprise fun!
This toy was a surprise gift from my cousin to my 12mo old last Christmas. We are now buying one for my husband's nephew. I thought at the time we received it that it would be fun. I had no idea that my child would still be playing, laughing, clapping, and chasing the balls a year later! This toy inspires dancing to the music, running after the balls, and investigation of what is going to happen next with the toy. My child routinely sticks her arm in the chute which blocks the air and creates additional pressure. When she pulls it out, the balls go everywhere, and she laughs! She has "added" oranges, apples, and an ice cream cone from her kitchen playset to the five balls it comes with. This toy is a ton of fun.

Great for kids and a pain for parents
The balls go everywhere and sometimes the air pressure isn't enough to get the balls popping. However, it teaches kids that if you put the balls in and press the button, the balls will entertainingly come popping out. Highly recommended toy to stay at a sitter's or grandparent's house!

Product Description

Get ready for some poppin', droppin', air-powered fun. Drop the five colorful balls onto the track. Watch them pop out of the top, roll down, then pop out all over again. Sometimes the balls spill over for even more interactive, put-and-take play. Silly sound effects and eight upbeat tunes accompany the animated action. This toy provides one "air-mazing" experience for your little one. Measures 18" x 7" x 13". Requires 4 "D" batteries (not included).

Features

• It's poppin', droppin', air-powered fun!
• Drop one of the colorful balls onto the track and the balls pop out of the top, roll down the track, then pop out all over again!
• Silly sound effects and 8 lively songs add to the fun!
• The sounds, sights, and nonstop action of the Playskool Busy Ball Popper encourage repetitive play and stimulate motor development skills
• Actual colors may vary from those pictured

Ref: http://christmas-popular-toys.blogspot.com/2008/11/us-top-10-christmas-toys-2008-list.html

10th of Top Christmas Toys 2008 - Scene It? Seinfeld

Scene It? Seinfeld
From Scene It?

Customer Reviews

My CHRISTmas gift this year
I can't wait to give this "SceneIt?Seinfeld" game to all my friends, especially my boss at work who LOVES Seinfeld."I can't wait to play myself to see if I know this show like I think I do.Everytime we talk about a certain show,I seem to know which episode its from,but this game really test you.

More for the casual fan...
I agree with the reviewers who say this a bit underwhelming. I know it just can't just be me, cause this is a show with so many die hard followers who can quote word for word. I mean the only hard questions are the ones about the random actors and their careers aside from Seinfeld... but even when I got a hard one I guessed and got it right. I didn't miss a question when I played.

Let me give you an example, they have a game where it plays a scene and bleeps out a word that you have to guess - they used a clip from The Soup Nazi episode and bleeped out Elaine saying "Soup Nazi".

I give it 3 stars because I love anything Seinfeld related. But if my girlfriend or I played anyone they would not have fun because we would be too good. And the generic Seinfeld bass music is annoying. Couldn't they get the actual song?

FUN
ONCE WE UNDERSTOOD THE DIRECTIONS, WE HAD A GREAT TIME WITH THIS. ANY SEINFELD FAN WOULD LIKE IT. THE ONLY QUESTIONS WE DID NOT LIKE WERE PERTAINING TO REAL NAMES OF GUEST ACTORS, DIRECTORS, ETC. OTHERWISE FUN QUESTIONS. CAN BE PLAYED WITH 2 TO 4 OR A BIG GROUP.

Product Description

This Scene It Deluxe Seinfeld DVD Game is a party game that your guests will be talking about for years to come! Finally, you can relive the neuroses and laughs of "the show about nothing" in an interactive and exciting trivia competition. This Seinfeld Scene It game, played with two or more people, includes a DVD with classic clips from all 9 seasons and enough questions to keep you guessing for hours! Move your pieces on the game board, test your Seinfeld trivia knowledge, and see who knows the most about the chaotic lives of America's favorite New Yorkers. Soon enough, you'll feel like a true part of the cast with this Seinfeld game.

Ref: http://christmas-popular-toys.blogspot.com/2008/11/us-top-10-christmas-toys-2008-list.html