Fall Toy Preview:Layout 3

Transcription

Fall Toy Preview:Layout 3
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
To y BOOk e X c l u s i v e
Interactive Toy Hunting
Alien Hunter
T
wo more toys in Interactive Toy Concepts’ Duck Hunter Series
take to the skies. Hornet Hunter and Alien Hunter each provide an interactive infrared battle between toy and player.
Launch the Hunter and try to shoot it down with the toy shooter as it flies
freely in the air.Each Hunter provides free flights of 30 seconds, with realistic
flapping wings. It takes three direct hits to bring down the Hornet or Alien, and a 10second charge for 30 seconds of free flight.
To y BOOk e X c l u s i v e
K’NEX Flies High with Flying Friends
F
or the littlest builders out there, KID K’NEX offers the Flying Friends Building Set and the Construction Crew
Building Set, so kids can build fun, flying vehicles or trucks and machines straight from the construction site.
Each set comes with chunky KID K’NEX rods, connectors, and blocks, plus personality parts such as eyes, wheels,
and propellers. Each set has 23 pieces and is for ages 3 and up.
Bike enthusiasts ages 7 and up might enjoy K’NEX’s officially licensed Orange County Choppers Building Sets. The
Raptor Bike and T-Rex Bike are collectible, 1:10-scale models with stylized, chrome-colored parts. The After-Burner
Bike and All-Star Bike Building Sets are 1:6 scale and offer stylized, chrome-colored parts, plus feature working headlights and instructions for two models.
Moving from land to sea, the Pirates Adventure 20-Model Building Set lets kids build 20
different models with one set, including a daring pirate ship, a skull and crossbones, a pirate
sword, and more. This kit, for ages 5 and up, is loaded with 350 parts, including a pirate
K’NEXman complete with a hat and sword, and includes building instructions for 20 unique
pirate-themed models.
For the 9 and up crowd, thrill rides are big. The Motorized Thrill Rides Set lets kids build
two thrill rides at once—a spinning Ferris Wheel and a twirling Swing-Ride. The kit includes
more than 635 pieces and builds to more than two feet tall.
The FireStorm Ferris Wheel is a new take on a K’NEX classic. Multi-colored
lights spin freely inside the wheel to create a dazzling light show. The motorized,
spinning wheel includes more than 525 pieces and builds to more than two feet tall.
Construction Crew Building Set
THE TOY BOOK
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
To y BOOk e X c l u s i v e
To y BOOk e X c l u s i v e
Hosung Love Bugs Are Eco-Friendly
F.A.B. Wall Décor for Kids
H
F
osung announces the miYim Love Bug Stroller
Toy Collection for 2010. Fasten these whimsical
characters to a stroller or car seat and take them
anywhere you go for organic fun on the run. MiYim fabric is
organically grown, and colored with all-natural, plant-based
PureWaterWash, ensuring a safer playtime for children.
Characters include Calvin the Caterpillar, Lola the Lady
Bug, and Bailey the Bee.
.A.B./Starpoint introduces Hello Kitty and
Project Runway Wall Scrapperz. Wall
Scrapperz is a new category of do-it-yourself toys
that applies the scrapbooking concept to kids’ walls.
The basic kit comes complete with a dry erase board,
stickers, paper frames, and jewels. All of the items have
a special adhesive that can safely be removed from the
wall without damage. Additional squares and accessories can be purchased to expand the design.
Alexander Doll Company Gets Fancy
T
Fancy Nancy Tea Party
THE TOY BOOK
he Fancy Nancy Tea Party 18-Inch Cloth Doll, from Alexander Doll Company, is
sure to be the life of the party. The doll is based on the book, Fancy Nancy: Tea
Parties, by Jane O’ Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. In her most elegant attire,
Fancy Nancy is clad in a pink tulle ruffled dress, a bright yellow and pink polka dot bow
belt, and party gloves, complete with a crown upon her head and a teacup in her hand.
The Fancy Nancy Explorer 18-Inch Cloth Doll is based on the book, Fancy Nancy:
Explorer Extraordinaire!, by Jane O’ Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. Wearing a safari jacket made fancier by a purple tulle skirt, glamorous sunglasses, and a leopard-print scarf
adorned with flowers and lucky clover, Nancy is ready for action. A ladybug headband adds
an adventurous look to her red yarn hair.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Manhattan Toy’s Got Kreepy Kreechers
M
Star
Floyd and
Mildred
Kreecher
anhattan Toy expands its Kreechers Klub with many new characters that stand out from the crowd. Newbies
include Blanche, Hank, Herman, Stanley, Mildred, Eugene, Floyd, Walker, Beatrice, and Irene. Each Kreecher
is for ages 3 and up and comes with its own unique look and personality.
Willow Stables welcomes new horse friends, including Ellie Ann English Horse, Leah May Show Horse, and
Brynn Rae Trail Horse. Each horse comes with her own hairbrush and unique saddle blanket, and
is appropriate for ages 3 and up.
New Fuzzy Nation Darn Cute Plush dogs include a Beagle named Atticus, a Yorkie named
Peas, a Chihuahua named Paris Cita, a Frenchie named Petit Bunne, a Pit Bull named Bullit, a
Pug named Ant (who is dressed as a rabbit), a Black Lab named Booda, a Pomeranian named
Material Girl, and a Chinese Crested-in-Flambe named Betsey J. Each Darn Cute Plush
dog comes with a different outfit and unique accessories.
New Fuzzy Nation Teacup Purses include Boston-in-Boots Elvis, Scottie
Quentin, Pug-in-Plaid Antlers Ant, Golden Juno, Yorkie-in-Vest Peas, Chihuahua in Pink
Plaid Paris Cita, Chinese Crested Betsey J, Maltese Baby Dot, and Dachshund
Doxanne. New Fuzzy Nation Wristlets coin purses include Plaidberry
Chihuahua, Dandiecow Pug, Labrador, Tartan Scottie, Plaidberry
Basset, Geisha Frenchie, Pinwheel Boston, and Houndstooth
Schnauzer. Each purse and wristlet comes with a unique look, and is
for ages 6 and up.
Rubie’s Costume Co. Has Super Mario Style
T
he Children’s Mario from Super Mario Costume, from Rubie’s Costume Co., includes a
blue jumpsuit, an inflatable belly, a hat, and a moustache. This costume is available in child
sizes Toddler, Small, Medium, and Large.
The Children’s Deluxe Luigi from Super Mario Costume also includes a blue jumpsuit, an
inflatable belly, a hat, and a mustache. It is available in child sizes Toddler, Small, Medium, and Large.
The Princess Fiona Costume includes a dress and a headpiece. Sizes available are Newborn (1-6
months) and Infant (6-12 months). A second Princess Fiona Costume includes a dress with detachable
sleeves, a tiara, and tattoos. Sizes available are Toddler, Small, and Medium.
The Shrek Costume includes a romper with under-leg snap closure and a headpiece. Sizes available
are Newborn (1-6 months) and Infant (6-12 months).
Techno Source Does the Rubik’s Slide
T
echno Source will introduce a line of electronic handheld and key
chain LCD video games for spring 2010 to tie in to the release of
Disney•Pixar’s summer 2010 film Toy Story 3. Appropriate for children ages 5 and up, the Toy Story 3 LCD Video Games will celebrate all
three Toy Story films by allowing kids to play along with the Toy Story
gang. Kids can help Buzz defeat the evil Emperor Zurg, bop the Little
Green Men when they light up, help Woody round up a loose Barrel of
Monkeys, and figure out which alien is not like the others. The games feature multiple levels, full color LCD screens, sound control, and music and
sound effects directly from the movie.
Kids can personalize the holidays by creating their own custom
Printies Keepsake Ornaments. Six personalized ornaments can be created to display at home or give to a friend. In the online Printies design
studio, choose the ornament
shape and start designing with
dozens of easy-to-use art
tools. Choose the colors and
patterns, write messages, and
even add personal photos to the
design. Then print the design on the
Printies ornament fabric sheet. The pre-sewn sheets are made of 100 percent cotton but work just like paper in any ink jet printer. After printing
out the design on the front and back, tear out the ornament, stuff it, and
seal it shut. There’s no sewing, gluing, or cutting. The collection includes
materials to make Snowmen, Santa Claus, a Candy Cane, a Stocking,
Traditional Balls, and a Teardrop.
Next fall, kids will be able to express themselves with smileys in bigger
and better ways with Smiley Central Studio Series 2 Plush. Series 2 will
include all new seven-inch plush and three-inch plush key chain characters. Just like the original series, each plush doll will include a secret code
to unlock exclusive smiley features and accessories for creating smileys
online at www.SmileyCentralStudio.com.
It started a Revolution, then it
went Touch, and in fall 2010
Rubik’s Cube will Slide. The
Rubik’s Slide is a brand new
challenge that combines casual gaming with
the speed and strategy of classic cubing.
Children’s Mario from Super Mario Costume
THE TOY BOOK
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
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PlaSmart Has Yummy Fun
RMS Is inMOTION and Headed to the U.S.
P
laSmart introduces Perplexus, a portable maze game of tracks and
barriers. Players maneuver a marble inside a clear sphere on colorful tracks and around obstacles. To guide the
marble smoothly through the maze, players must
carefully move and shift the globe as they race
one another or try to beat the clock. Perplexus
is great for casual fun, but also doubles as exercise for motor skills and dexterity.
Kids love messing about with squishy, garishly colored modeling clay almost as much as
they love eating the stuff. Yummy Dough allows
kids to have their fun and eat it, too—safely. The delicious and 100 percent safe Yummy Dough can be shaped, baked, and
eaten. Simply add water, mix it, knead it, and then model it into whatever
shape you like. Once kids are happy with their creation, put it in the oven
for 15-30 minutes and presto––colorful biscuits are ready to eat. Yummy
Dough contains vegetable-based coloring agents only.
Each Yummy Dough pack comes with four dough sachets in four different colors (red, blue, green, and yellow), and just like regular playable
dough, they can be mixed up to create new colors. A molding tool is included for intricate details and a leaflet is packed in to give kids design ideas.
R
MS International, with operations in the UK, mainland Europe,
and Hong Kong, brings its Grafix value-priced brand of kids’
art, craft, toy, stationery, and activity lines to U.S. mass and
specialty chain retailers for 2010. The company’s seasonal line, The
Christmas Factory, will also be offered into the U.S. market.
The InMOTION Games Console is a wireless interactive console that
comes with 42 games, including sports, Olympic, and classic arcade
games. The console comes with two
wireless controllers and an AC adapter.
The stationery-filled Giant Crayon
includes a huge assortment of stationery, 10 sheets of A4 paper, colored
paper, 12 colored pencils, 20 felt tips,
12 crayons, two neon gel pens, two
pastel gel pens, and can also be used
to store money.
Who’s Got the Winning Moves?
C
Colors and Music from Mary Meyer
M
ary Meyer introduces new plush items
from its Taggies Colours line. The 10inch Taggies Colours Doll and
Taggies Colours Octopus feature facial
expressions and embroidered details. The
Taggies looped ribbons are found all over the
toys so babies can seek and find them from any
position or angle.
Mary Meyer presents the new Little
Princess boutique of coordinated baby
items. This new line of seven baby toys in
pastel pink features a new wind-up musical doll.
The 10-inch Little Princess doll plays the lullaby
“Hush Little Baby.”
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Taggies
Colours Doll
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
ir*Kis, by Winning Moves Games, is a strategic board game of completing circles and stars for ages 8 years and older. Although there
is only one rule (players must place
their piece next to the last piece played) the
game takes planning and strategy to outwit
opponents. Players try to complete as many
shapes as possible to score points and block
opponents from scoring. Good anticipation
can score players a free turn, and the first
one to score 40 points wins the game. The
game comes with scoring tracks and corner
compartments so everyone will always
know who is in the lead. Four sets of 20
playing pieces, four scoring pegs, and
illustrated instructions are also included.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
39
Briarpatch Partners for WordGirl, I Spy
B
riarpatch has partnered with Scholastic Media to announce new
2010 product releases. I Spy products include the Quest
Adventure Hunt Game, card games, 100-piece children’s puzzles,
Little Wheel and Animals starter puzzles (four puzzles in one box), and Grab
N Go Games in draw-string bags.
New WordGirl products include Word Up Game, Grab N Go Spelly
Deli Game, Precocious Card Game, and a 100-piece jigsaw puzzle.
Puzzles Galore from Lafayette Puzzle Factory
T
he Crayola Chalkboard Puzzles from Lafayette Puzzle Factory are
easy to clean and have a wipeable surface for fun use inside and out.
The two-foot by three-foot set
includes Crayola sidewalk chalk and is
safe for kids ages 4 and older. The company also introduces new Crayola educational products including flash cards and
lapboards that have an exclusive chalkboard finish. Each lapboard and flash
card pack comes with Crayola chalk.
Chris Flisher Mandala Puzzles
feature six of the artist’s most popular and
colorful circular mandalas. The 500-piece round format puzzle is unique
and challenging because of its shape. Once the puzzle is solved, the pieces
can be glued together, using the included paste, to showcase the finished
product at home. Each image featured on the puzzle was painted by Flisher
and includes a description behind the meaning of the art.
View popular tourist attractions with Fodors Places to Visit Puzzle
Books. This new line of puzzles features special image packaging of popular world destinations that look and feel like a hardcover book. With each
puzzle comes a 16-page book of travel tips and facts for the destinations.
Puzzle artist Howard Robinson releases ColorView 3D Puzzles, a line
of puzzles that come to life with the included ChromoColor 3-D glasses.
Without the glasses, the images are still viewable with bright, sharp, colorful pictures.
The Cupcake 500 Piece Puzzle features photos of delectable cupcakes
in elegant settings. Each puzzle includes a simple cupcake recipe by a wellknown chef.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
Hidden City Expands Bella Sara’s World
E
ach season of Bella Sara Collector Tins, from Hidden City Games,
features two enchanting designs from the latest card release and
includes an assortment of trading cards for real-world play with an
online extension. Inside each collectible tin are four Card Packs, including
one from the latest series, and secret codes that unlock Bella Sara
Adventures at www.BellaSara.com. The fun continues both online and
offline with never-ending game play and captivating stories.
Two new sets of velvety Miniatures horses await kids’ discovery. Kids
can collect all 20 new horses as they embark on new quests and discover
the magical world of North of North, activating adventures online that
include their miniature horses.
Emma’s search comes to an end in Bella Sara Tales DVD: Search
for the Lost Herds, as she discovers all three lost herds throughout the
year. The DVD is narrated by a favorite character, Penny Inkwell, and is
loaded with secret codes, trading cards, and a collectible poster. Kids can
watch as the herds are unveiled before their eyes.
Hidden City has also announced the release of
three new trading card sets for 2010.
With Sunflowers, your adventure with Emma
begins. Legend says that once upon a time, three
noble sisters traveled to distant lands and
became the patrons of their own herds of horses.
The first of these were the flower, tree, and plant
horses rooted in the magic of nature. Join Emma
as she searches the Jasmine forest for the horses
of herd Sunflower. The Sunflowers set will be
released on March 2.
With Moonfairies, seek the enchanted herd of
the fairy horse realm. Adventure with Emma,
Colm, and Deru to carry on their search for the three noble herds. This time,
they will be traveling to the far-off Emeraldian Wilds to find the second of the
sisters and the fairy, dryad, and sprite horses. The enchanted lands of the
fairy horse kingdom will be revealed for the first time as Emma discovers the
horses of herd Moonfairies. Moonfairies will be released on June 1.
With Starlights, one quest ends and another begins. The most mysterious herd of all will be revealed when Emma searches for the horses of herd
Starlight. But how will Emma and her friends find a herd of horses that are
from the stars? All of Emma’s travels will finally come to an end as she discovers the last of the three sisters and the bright star horses born of magic
and wishes. Starlights will be available October 5.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
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= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Cardinal’s Got Game
C
ardinal Industries, with more than 65 years of experience manufacturing games, is now embarking on a
new division—puzzles. With a variety of licenses, Cardinal is making traditional puzzles as well as
unique new concepts.
Cardinal is also introducing new licenses in the large games division. In 2010,
Cardinal will offer a large selection of games for Penguins of Madagascar, the hit television show on Nickelodeon.
Cardinal will also introduce innovative games and packaging concepts for its
range of games for Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3, as well as new games for Disney’s
classic characters.
A new line of games based on the Marvel superheroes gives strength to Cardinal’s
line of classic and innovative games, while Dora the Explorer’s 10th anniversary and
SpongeBob SquarePants will be a part of some new products. Sesame Street will continue appealing to the younger set with games featuring the show’s much-loved monsters.
Lastly, Cardinal continues the Twilight Saga with its New Moon The Movie Board Game.
Portable Play from Playmobil
ALEX Makes the Daily News
P
reschoolers can feel grown up by reading
their own full-size crinkly newspaper. My
Daily News, by ALEX, is a four-page activity newspaper featuring things you would read
about in a real daily paper. From the weather
forecast to sports highlights to fashion trends,
kids can get the scoop on the latest news, even
adding their own photo to personalize the paper.
ALEX’s Baby Builder is baby’s first construction set. Snap, pop, twist, and pull. The set
includes 26 pieces in eight shapes and six bright
colors.
THE TOY BOOK
K
ids can journey to fantasy lands with four new carrying
cases from Playmobil. The take-along playsets, for kids
ages 4 and older, are themed in dragons, princesses,
ponies, and pirates. The Dragonland Carrying Case includes two
knight figurines, a horse equipped with armor, a crossbow cannon,
and other accessories. The Princess Carrying Case includes a
princess figurine, a vanity, and animals such as a
peacock and a unicorn.
The Pony Farm Carrying
Case features two ponies,
a wheelbarrow, and two
figurines,
while
the
Pirate Carrying Case
includes two figurines, a
rowboat that floats on
water, a working cannon,
and a treasure chest.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Silverlit Speeds into Action
S
ilverlit Toys introduces two new speedy car collections featuring popular superheroes. The Super Hero Squad
Team Mini I/R Series are pint-sized vehicles equipped
with turbo speed. The remote control, as small as a cell phone,
uses infrared technology to help the vehicles zip around and
make precise turns. The series is available in 12 superhero character designs, such as the Hulk, Wolverine, and Iron Man, with
working headlights.
The Marvel Universe R/C Whip-It Series are swiveling R/C
vehicles that can turn
sharply and swing left
and right. The body of
the vehicles feature
lights that illuminate
the top and sides, and
the vehicles, available in Iron Man,
Wolverine, and Captain America styles,
include sound effects.
Scientific Toys Wins the Race
S
cientific Toys’ Green Racer is a fully functional infrared
R/C car that can move forward, stop, reverse, and turn
left and right. Kids turn the crank to charge both the car
and the remote controller. This car never needs batteries.
The Solar-Power Rechargeable Car—Ford Mustang
GT500 has the same functions as the green racer, but
with a solar-powered twist.
This eco-friendly vehicle can
be charged by sunlight or
batteries, and comes with a
solar-powered rotating display stand/platform.
DuneCraft Adds Science Kits
C
onduct captivating experiments with
DuneCraft’s newest inventions. The
company’s new boxed science kits will
provide hours of educational enjoyment. Simply
add water and start experimenting. Each kit
comes with an activity guide. These new kits
include the Outer Space Explorer and Slimy
Squishy Polymer Fun. Slimy Squishy Polymer
Fun contains four polymers to be mesmerized
by, including GobbledyGoop, Slippery Spheres,
Silly Square, and Jelly
Stones.
DuneCraft unveils
two new science activity
sets
featuring
Curious George. Kids
can grow, build, wiggle, and jiggle with
Wiggly Jiggly Silly
Squares. Place the
squares in a bowl of
water and watch the
product grow up to
100 times larger into a squirmy state. Then kids
can use the stacker to build a tower with their
silly squares, or experiment with the included
five different colors in color blending. The
squares are reusable for more fun later. Kids
can create their own winter wonderland any
time of the year with DuneCraft’s Arctic
Wonderland. Plant the pine tree seed and add
the easy-to-make Super Snow to grow a winter
scene. All materials needed are included and the
toy is safe for toddlers 3 years and older.
Green Racer
THE TOY BOOK
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Thinkway Tells a Toy Story
T
hinkway’s 2010 Toy Story Collection pays homage
to the newest Disney•Pixar creation, Toy Story 3.
The Buzz Lightyear figure is fully poseable, with
points of articulation including fingers, wrists, elbows,
shoulders, waist, ankles, knees, and legs. Push the red oval
chest button for classic Buzz phrases, or
push the blue oval chest button to hear
Buzz respond as “Space Ranger” Buzz
with moving head action. Talk to Buzz
and he’ll respond to your voice in Talk
Back Mode. Other features include
Flying Mode with pop-out wing action
and flying and landing sound effects,
laser light-up and sound effects, an opening and closing
helmet, glow-in-the-dark green trim, and more. Buzz says
65 phrases and is 12 inches tall.
The Woody the Sheriff figure says 50 classic phrases from
the movie when you pull his string, and responds back to children as Andy’s Room Woody. Woody figure is 16 inches tall
and comes with a Sheriff star display stand.
The RC Remote Control Car has a playful personality that
is revealed with bouncing action, horn honking, free motion
eyes, multiple expressions, and driving sound effects. Move
RC forward, in reverse, or spin 360° in either direction using
the wireless remote control. In Follow Mode, Call RC and he’ll
detect your location and come to you. In Explore Mode, press
the Explore button on the remote and RC
will cruise around on his own without
remote guidance. Built-in sensors help RC
avoid obstacles in his path.
Turn the tail on Rex the Roaring
Dinosaur to activate his talking/roaring
feature with motorized arms and head. Or,
talk to Rex and he’ll respond with voice
and movement. Rex has poseable arms, tail, legs, and neck,
plus ratchet joints in his hips for balance.
The Bucket O Soldiers is a reusable storage bucket that
holds 72 Soldiers, including two with parachutes. Other soldiers have a variety of poses and weaponry.
Each space alien in the Space Alien 3 Pack is made of soft
plastic and has a unique facial expression. Each item in the
Toy Story Collection comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Wham-O Makes a Comeback
A
fter many years of operating under the radar, Wham-O is poised to introduce itself to a new generation of kids with some of the classic toys that their parents and grandparents once enjoyed,
along with a range of new products. Wham-O has a new management team and a new business
strategy. The company best known for classic toys that became pop culture crazes, such as the
Hula Hoop, Frisbee, and Slip ’N Slide, will launch a reinvigorated lineup of products
across its portfolio of toys, sporting goods, and recreational products.
WHAM-O’s fall 2010 line includes new offerings in several categories, such
as preschool, dolls and figures, outdoor winter games, and back-to-school. The
company is also planning a major program for spring 2011 with fresh takes on
the company’s core brands including Slip ’N Slide, Frisbee, Hacky Sack,
SuperBall, Morey, BZ, and Boogie Board.
THE TOY BOOK
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Fundex Rolls the Dice
F
undex introduces four new games, including two new dice games. Players help Fred collect neighborhood animals
and pickles, his favorite food, in the Fred May Day Dice Game, to earn points. But, be careful, don’t get caught
stalking Judy, Fred’s crush, or you can lose it all. The game comes with dice, a travel case, and a score pad.
The hoops&yoyo Gimme Donuts Dice and Card Game, for kids ages 8 and older, stars
Hallmark characters hoops, yoyo, and their friend piddles. The game, packaged in a portable tin, features donut cards that have images of the characters in crazy positions. Up to four players roll the
dice to recreate the poses and score donuts. The player with the most donuts wins.
In Jungle Grapevine: Race to the Watering Hole, players draw cards to move their animal
playing pieces through the jungle, aiming to get to the watering hole first. As players journey down
the rugged path to find fresh water, unexpected surprises and obstacles get in the
way, slowing down some in the race. The game is targeted to kids ages 3 and
older and up to six players can play at a time.
Dominos get creative in Alex Beard: Face to Face. Based on the Beard’s oil
on canvas, the game’s objective is to match up the eyes, noses, and mouths
strategically and artistically.
ToyQuest Gets Squishy & Stretchy
S
quish ’em, squeeze ’em, stretch ’em—ToyQuest announces that Stretch
Screamers will return in fall 2010 to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Popping
eyeballs and screams of terror make this year’s line more disgusting, spooky,
and kooky than ever before. These 14-inch figures can stand alone, and are constructed with super-stretchy material.
Expanding the NFL Probot action figure line, the National Basketball Association
joins the program in spring 2010. Like their football counterparts, these NBA robots
also feature a unique head-flipping capaStretch Screamers
bility. With a simple push of a button,
the head will change from the face of
the player to his helmeted robot alter
ego. Measuring six inches tall, each of
these fully articulated figures carries a
magnetic basketball accessory. Kobe
Bryant,
LeBron
James,
and
Shaquille O’Neal will be among six other top NBA players in the lineup.
THE TOY BOOK
48
Kids Only Signs
with Crayola
K
ids
Only
recently signed
with Crayola to
launch a collection of
Crayola-branded metal
indoor and outdoor
activity furniture. The
products will incorporate Crayola’s vibrant
color story and allow
children to personalize
their spaces. The line is
anticipated to launch in
early 2010.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Sakar Says, “Ni Hao, Nickelodeon”
T
his fall, Sakar International is releasing new lines of Nickelodeon-branded electronics, including Dora the Explorer and Ni Hao, Kai-Lan items for preschool children.
The lines will include digital cameras, walkie talkies, alarm clocks, and more.
One of the hottest items in the Dora the Explorer line is the Mood Camera. This easyto-use camera is perfect for any little explorer to capture images of their daily adventures.
Plus, it has fun phrases that Dora is known to say and interactive software so kids can create picture books, stories, and more.
For Ni Hao, Kai-Lan, the Walkie Talkies make it easy for little ones to communicate
with their best friend. These items and more will be available at Toys “R” Us this fall.
Wal-Mart Welcomes Baby Genius
P
laying off the growing success of the Baby Genius discover, and express themselves.
DVDs and CDs and the upcoming 2009 release of
The collection will include the All-In-One Musical
the Baby Animals DVD, a Baby Genius toy line will Band, a seven-piece musical set sized just right for little
launch at Wal-Mart stores nationwide in the fall. The 2009 musicians. The Musical Vacuum features cool music,
licensing program also includes a series of Baby Genius back and forth motion, light up notes, and spinning
board books, which are currently distributed
action perfect for mommy’s little helper.
through Simon and Schuster. For 2010 and
Tempo’s Musical Broom features a
beyond, The Joester Loria Group plans to purpopular Baby Genius character, fun
sue additional categories, including juvenile
phrases, realistic sweeping sounds,
products, feeding accessories, infant and
and Tempo’s own “Broom Song.”
toddler apparel, party supplies, bedding,
DJ’s Sing-a-Long Keyboard lets
and electronic learning aids.
little DJs listen to sing-along songs,
Battat Toys has been named the
play musical instruments, hear giggly
tentpole toy licensee. Baby Genius
laughter, and even record their own
toys will launch at Wal-Mart with
masterpieces. The Pet Care Center
seven feet of dedicated space in the
comes complete with Melody the puppy for
preschool aisle. The initial assortkids to take care of by listening to her heart
All-In-One Musical Band
ment will include preschool learning, activity,
beat, trimming her nails, and giving her lots
and roleplay toys and will incorporate the Baby Genius of love. With Old McVinko’s Musical Farm, kids can
principles by featuring music as a core learning tool to roleplay farm activities such as feeding the animals and
engage and encourage children to communicate, connect, milking the cow.
THE TOY BOOK
50
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Neat-Oh Builds Partnership with LEGO
Goldberger’s New Dolls
N
eat-Oh! International, LLC has announced the introduction of the latest product in its expanding line,
the LEGO CITY ZipBin Toy Box & Playmat. Like
all ZipBin products, it is a creative toy and both a storage and
transport solution.
LEGO CITY ZipBin Toy Box & Playmat joins 24 other
products in NOI’s catalog, including ZipBin Classic products,
ZipBin Minis, ZipBin Shapes, and ZipBin Playpacks. All
ZipBin products unzip flat to a play mat surface. Unlike other
toy storage containers,
unzipping allows children to access toys
inside without the usual
dumping and scattering
of toys. When play is
done, the toys zip back
inside ready to store
and/or transport. All
ZipBin products are collapsible, transportable,
and feature wipe-clean surfaces. All
products and packaging are eco-friendly as well.
ZipBin Baskets are also new. These colorful ZipBin storage baskets unzip into playmats in four themes: T-Rex, Train
Town, City, and Superstar Condo.
ZipBin Ice Cream Shoppe includes an ice cream truck,
ZipBin Tote, and activity mat, plus four colors of modeling
dough and tools to make ice cream creations.
Kids love to flip the Neat-Oh! 2-Sided Playmats to
reveal two different colored play environments. The mats
are available in two versions, Farm/Dino Land and
Construction/Roadville. Each mat measures 28.5 by 22.5
inches, includes toys, and is ready to play. Additionally,
Neat-Oh! Mini Playmats measure 17 inches by 12 inches
and are available in three themes: Airplanes, Dino Land,
and Safari.
THE TOY BOOK
52
T
he Goldberger Company introduces a new
subbrand, Yum Yums, and also expands
its Baby’s First, Basic Training, and
Lavender Dreams lines in 2010. Like all
Goldberger dolls, these new additions will be
phthalate-compliant and will come with the
Goldberger “Love It for Life” lifetime guarantee.
Yum Yums Musical
Lights Lolli is an extraexpressive and colorfully dressed doll.
Turn her special
knob and she will
magically light up
and play a sweet
song. She can sip on
her bottle or suck on her
thumb. Lolli is for babies 18
months and older.
The new Basic Training Molly Manners doll
sings a song written by Tex Ritter that teaches
kids good manners, such as saying “Please” and
“Thank You.” Just press her tummy and sing
along. Her batteries can be easily changed and
she is machine washable. Molly Manners is for
ages 1 and up.
Baby’s First Plumpee is a soft doll with a soft
vinyl face. Plumpee is machine-washable and is
safe for newborns.
The Lavender Dreams Heart Glow Baby softly drifts off to dreamland when you press her
heart. This lavender-scented baby doll is dressed
in her sleepy time outfit. Her scent will help little
ones drift off to sleep too, as lavender is known to
help soothe and calm fussy babies. Heart Glow
Baby is for ages 18 months and up.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Hooga Loo Has FaceChipz
10Vox Puts the Pieces Together
H
ooga Loo aims to transform the way tweens communicate by encouraging face-to-face exchanges of collectible tokens that connect tweens online at
FaceChipz.com. Available in 200 different colors and styles,
FaceChipz tokens are decorated with colorful, quirky emoticons representing an emotion for any occasion. Tweens share
the tokens with friends to cheer them up and show support,
while also inviting each other to connect online.
FaceChipz is designed to fill the void for tweens that have
outgrown younger gaming sites but are not yet ready for the
freedom and challenges of more mature destinations.
After purchasing FaceChipz tokens, tweens log on to
FaceChipz.com to create a personalized profile page. Each
FaceChipz token is imprinted with a unique code that kids
enter online. The FaceChipz tokens are then shared among
friends. When the friend enters the code at FaceChipz.com the
two are connected. As kids continue to give and receive
FaceChipz, their collection and network grows.
At FaceChipz.com, tweens have access to many activities
and features, including ChipChat messaging, photo sharing,
status updates, emoticon mood updates, favorite lists, secret
message widgets, and much more.
M
yFunPuzzle.com is the latest introduction from 10Vox Entertainment.
Integrating both an online, web-based
interactive experience and a retail gift line for consumers, MyFunPuzzle.com is a revolutionary twist
on a time-honored pastime. Customers purchase
a traditional puzzle at their local retailer, either
1,000 pieces for adults or 100 pieces for children,
and inside the box they will find a puzzle and a
special access code. This code, when entered at
MyFunPuzzle.com, will allow customers to “put
together” their puzzle in a virtual world. Not only
will they have access to the image they purchased,
but they will also receive access to nine other puzzles based on the genre they purchased. Players
will be able to re-cut their puzzle into varying
numbers of virtual pieces, separate pieces by colors, separate the edges, and even compete for the
best time on the Leader Board. Need to see the
picture to complete the puzzle? Not a problem; the
puzzle’s image can be “set up” for the player to
view on the side or even laid out as a template for
the pieces to go into. Want to invite a friend to
help? Give them the “Guest Code” and they can
log on and help out.
Santa Kitty Puzzle
THE TOY BOOK
54
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
C
JAKKS Jumps into 2010
J
AKKS Pacific has a lot to offer kids in 2010. Part of unlock items on clubpenguin.com. The Club Penguin Mix
the Disney Fairies doll line, the Disney Fairies ’n Match Figures allow kids to continue to build their Club
Magic Glow Fairies feature light-up, molded wings. Penguin collection. Each set includes two 2-inch Mix ’n
Mode 1 features a fluttering light, Mode 2
Match figures and a mini accessory. Mix and match the
has a rainbow effects light, and
penguin parts to interchange the cosMode 3 has a color glow light.
tumes and create unique figure variEach package contains a Pixie
ations. The more figures kids collect,
Pass to use as currency online at
the more variations they can create,
pixiehollow.com. The Magic
and new figures will launch
Glow Fairies are 4.5 inches tall.
throughout the year.
New for Hello Kitty, Hello
Disney Channel’s Phineas
Kitty World House Playsets
and Ferb are going plush this
allow children to build and play in
spring. The Phineas and Ferb
their Hello Kitty world with themed sets
Slammer Plush with Sound Bytes may
Club Penguin Mix ’n Match Figures
including a dentist’s office, travel agency,
look like any other toy, but when you
and tanning salon. Each playset comes with a mini-figure throw your favorite characters, they jabber back phrases
and accessories.
from the show. Hear Phineas say, “Ferb, I know what we
The new GX Racers Multi Pack Assortment is a line are going to do today,” or Dr. Doof say, “Ah, Perry the
of 1:64-scale vehicles featuring interchangeable gyros Platypus, what an unexpected surprise.” Each character
that race up to 600 scale MPH. The GX Multi-Pack says five different phrases.
Assortment comes with two speed
Get funky with Funky Town
gyros, two cars, two rip cords,
Alvin, based on Alvin and the
and two track engines that can be
Chipmunks. This plush sings and
used to make the cars compatible
dances to the “Funky Town” music.
with other track sets.
JAKKS is introducing Marvel
The Bella Sara Bella’s Ball
wind-up toys for boys ages 4 and
Playset ties into the 2009 trading
up. The toys come in three differcard series. Ball-themed accessories
ent styles: Iron Man, Spider-Man,
including jewelry and tiaras are
and Wolverine.
included so kids can dress up their
New Smurfs toys include the
horses in proper Ball attire.
Smurf Wheel, which is a Smurf
The Club Penguin online world
wind-up figure on a skateboard
is a snow-covered virtual island
inside a wheel, and the Smurf
Bella Sara Bella’s Ball Playset
where kids can play games and
Fortune Teller, featuring an allinteract in a virtual playground. Each Club Penguin prod- knowing Papa Smurf who will answer all of your quesuct includes a one-of-a-kind collectible coin with a code to tions in Smurf language.
THE TOY BOOK
56
Delta Makes Furniture Fun
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
lean-up time becomes playtime with the Disney•Pixar Toy Story Toy Box from Delta Children’s
Products. Featuring Buzz, Woody, and the Toy Story gang, the Toy Story Toy Box
is a colorful addition to any room’s décor. The hinged safety lid prevents
pinched fingers. Sayings adorning the Toy Box, including “In the Toy Chest,”
and “Time for Fun,” encourage kids to organize their belongings while still
having fun. This item meets all JPMA safety standards and complements
other Toy Story items, sold separately. Some assembly is required.
Delta has traveled all over the planet to bring the magic and wonder of the
world’s baby animals home to the littlest explorers. With fun animal friends on
the removable mobile and colorful animal designs on the mesh sides, the
Fisher-Price Precious Planet Deluxe Playard lets your child play among his
friends. Durable and portable, the playard frame folds compactly, and the sturdy carry
bag lets you take it with you. It also serves as a bassinet and changing table, and includes
plenty of storage for diapers and other baby essentials.
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
R
Step2 Plays It Up
T
he PlayUp Toddler Swing & Slide is a multi-functional activity center from Step2, fit for a toddler to slide,
swing, and play. Its sophisticated and fun look is part of the company’s new collection that will
hit stores in 2010. The climber on the playset has sloped steps with
handgrips to help toddlers step up and grab on to the slide, which promotes
balance and hand-eye coordination. The swing seat includes a seat belt for
a safe ride towards the sky.
Go Haywire with New Learning Games
T
he Haywire Group has expanded its DICEcapades!
line for 2010. New games include DICEcapades
Kids Version! and DICEcapades! Word Pirates.
For a twist on a classic story, Action Princesses is the
game to have. These princesses may look dainty, but make
no mistake, they can handle themselves and save a prince in
distress while they’re at it. In this game, the princesses gather the tools they need to defeat the Evil King who is threatening the village and has captured Prince Charming.
In Number Ninjas, players will have a great time on
their mission to retrieve the
Golden
Dragon
Box.
Ninjas will need to solve
math challenges, block
their opponents, and
avoid traps, all while
being the first to reach the
ancient temple where the
treasure is hidden.
THE TOY BOOK
58
Revell Flies High
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
evell’s Proto CX Ultra-Micro Radio-Control
Helicopter is nearly 8.5-inches long, fully
assembled, fully equipped, and outfitted with
two powerful motors plus a high-capacity, LiPo flight
battery. A heading hold gyro and counter-rotating
rotor blades combine for a smooth, forgiving flight
performance. With no experience, even brand-new
pilots can climb, descend, hover, turn, and fly forward or in reverse.
A 2.4GHz transmitter with LCD display combines
the easy-to-grip comfort of a video game controller
with R/C versatility. Dual rates allow skilled fliers to
make their heli more responsive just by pressing the
right stick. The transmitter also doubles as a charger
for the Proto CX LiPo battery.
Additionally, United Model and Revell have partnered with the Boy Scouts of America to produce a full
line of official Pinewood Derby products—just in time
to celebrate the Boy Scouts’ 100-year anniversary.
Revell energizes the pinewood model category with
new kits, invigorated packaging, and never-beforeavailable items such as a handy carrying case and economical paint set. The initial lineup has more than 30
different products: racers, building and customizing
accessories, and a Tips and Tricks booklet. Original car
designs—Luge, Dragster, Grand Prix, Skateboard, and
Funny Car—come with pre-carved wood blocks and
step-by-step, photo-illustrated instructions. Custommolded, colored pieces and full-color decals add realism. Revell tops off each kit with official, race-legal
Pinewood Derby wheels.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Explore the Science of Hair
I
n Scientific Explorer’s Heavenly Hair kit, kids will find everything they need to become
an expert stylist. They can make their own shampoo and conditioner and learn about the
science that explains why each person’s hair looks the way it does—how it grows, what
makes it curly or straight, why it’s a certain color, and more. There are also tips from the
pros on how to choose the perfect cut and style for your face and hair type. This kit is for
ages 8 and up and will be available in March.
LEGO’s Got Game
L
EGO introduces LGS, a new line of LEGO games. In
2010 LEGO will bring 10 new games to the U.S.,
with five launching in March and five more to follow
in August. The concept behind the games is build, play,
change—it’s LEGO as you’ve never seen it before.
With Lava Dragon, build the volcano according to the
instructions, including the dice. Play with
the aim to be the first to climb
to the top of the erupting volcano and summon the dragon,
but watch out for the molten
lava. Change the rules by
adding the “lava” tile then
using the “lava” sword to
push your opponent off the mountain and
back to the beginning.
In Monster 4, the goal is be the first to get
four monsters in a row. Build the graveyard
according to the instructions, then build the dice. Play by
carefully getting four monsters in a row without falling into
the path of the giant spider. Change the sides of the dice to
add new blocking rules and devious spider-dodging moves.
With Pirate Code, set a secret code in your treasure
chest. Try to break your opponents’ code before they discover yours, and become the pirate captain. Build the dice
THE TOY BOOK
and the game using the building instructions. Play by first
choosing a code and hiding it in your treasure chest.
Collect and rearrange gems while guessing in turn until
someone cracks a code. Change the game by adding the
white tile to bring out the sinister skeleton.
In Minotaurus, be the first to lead your heroes to the
temple, avoiding the Minotaur, and win. Build
the maze and dice using the building
instructions. Play by getting one or all
of your knights to the center of the
maze. Just watch out—your opponents can block you as you travel
through the maze, but you can send
them home using the Minotaur.
Change the number of spaces
the Minotaur can move, the
Monster 4
layout of the maze, and more.
With
Creationary,
the
objective is to build and guess. Roll the dice to select one
of four categories: vehicles, buildings, nature, or things.
There are three levels of difficulty, so pick the right level
for you and build what’s on your card. Other players
guess what you built. Play as individuals or as teams.
This is a great game for family and friends to test imagination, creativity, building, and guessing skills.
60
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Scratch Art Makes Friendship Creative
S
cratch Art introduces the Scratch & Trade Friendship Card
Album Set, a new twist on a creative trend. Artist trading cards
are mini works of art made by and traded among artists worldwide. Kids of all ages and abilities can create their very own trading card
mini-masterpieces, swap them with friends, and display their collections
in the album. The set includes 14 Rainbow Black trading cards, a wood
drawing stylus, more than 50 stickers to jump start the art, 14 colorful
album pages inside a wire-bound hardcover album, and instructions.
Scratch ’em, trade ’em, collect ’em.
Aurora World Brings the Love
A
urora World, Inc. has announced its 2010
Additionally, The WannaBes, which feature YooHoo &
Valentine’s merchandise. Topping the list is Friends dressed as other animals, encourage kids to play,
YooHoo Greetings, which combines a
pretend, and exercise their imaginations.
plush toy and greeting card. YooHoo Greetings
The snow-white colored I Wuv U Bear is Aurora’s
pieces are available in four styles and are 3.5
featured Valentine’s teddy. Each is accented with a
inches tall.
pink nose and holds an embroidered candy-cane-colAurora offers a variety of Valentine’s
ored heart that reads, “I Wuv U.”
YooHoos, including a Pucker Up style, which
Wrap the long arms and legs of the U Make Me
features a smooch sound and heart that lights
Wild Monkey around a package or around a vase
up when squeezed, and purple and pink YooHoos
full of flowers. U Make Me Wild Monkeys are silky
holding an embroidered heart that reads “Luv
soft and include embroidered features as well as a
Me.” The YooHoo and Friends line is compleremovable heart-shaped bobble around the neck.
mented by a free, interactive website,
Finally, leading characters from the syndicated
www.yoohoofriends.com,
which
features
“Pearls Before Swine” comic strip are back with a new style
YooHoo characters in a multitude of online
and characteristic flare for Valentine’s Day. Fans will
games and activities for children.
appreciate Rat, Croc, and Zebra adorned with embroiAurora has four new characters joining the
dered hearts that read “Love Bites,” “Be My Fud,”
Pearls Before Swine Croc
YooHoos & Friends line for 2010 (available in
and “Peace,” respectively. The childlike but welltwo sizes—five and eight inches): Platypus, Scarlet Macaw, meaning Pig character dons a gold set of Cupid’s arrow and
Iberian Lynx, and Barbary Lion.
wings. Each character is eight inches in size.
THE TOY BOOK
62
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Imperial Toy Is Super
I
mperial Toy’s Googly Frog and Spider are made of the same materials as the popular
googly balls. Squish, toss, stretch, or pull the frog or spider and they still go back to
their original shape. Googly Frog and Spider are available in an assortment of colors.
Kids can act out their own superhero adventure with the Super Hero Squad
Flashlight. The flashlight includes three slides which, when inserted, can be projected
to create a superhero-sized scene. It also features a built-in stand for easy use. The
Marvel Hero Fingerboards let kids perform hero tricks with their fingers, and are now
available in a box set featuring favorite styles.
International Playthings Goes Green
I
nternational Playthings’ portable Soccer- and GirlMr. Robot Head is a classic toy with a revolutionary
themed FM radios never run out of juice. Each radio fea- new twist. Kids try to move the wand from one side to the
tures push-button tuning and a headphone jack. Kids other without touching the wire. Flashing lights and
use the crank on the back to power it. Additionally, the buzzing sounds alert kids when they touch the wire, telling
crank-powered rechargeable energy can be used to charge them to start back at the beginning. Keep Mr. Robot Head’s
cell phones, using the included mobile phone charging
energy charged up by cranking the handle that stores
cable and five adapters.
neatly in the back of his head.
Featuring four different animals, the squeezeKids will discover the abilities of worms, and
powered, kid-sized Farm Flashlights are lighttheir importance in our ecosystem, through a
ing the way with kid-generated energy. Using
series of safe and humane experiences using
the side lever that stores inside the body, kids can
real worms in the Worm Farm. This kit allows chilrelease and squeeze to charge up the light. When
dren to plant seeds and grow vegetation in soil strata
switched on, each animal’s nose lights up.
that is separated by colored sand horizons—great
Using a hand crank to charge up the Eco
for tracking worm activity.
Rocket, kids will hear a countdown, watch
The Ant-o-Sphere Starter Pod is built in
launchers power up, and blast off with flashing
3-D. The space-age ant colony modules and
lights and sounds. The Eco Rocket includes a
connecting tubes are made in daylight and
removable cockpit hatch, while the hand
night colors. Each sphere features three
crank stores neatly in the body.
lenses to easily observe the ants: one clear,
Ant-o-Sphere
Kids become eco-pop stars with the
one that magnifies, and a fisheye.
crank-powered electronic Eco Mic microphone. Using four
With eight pods, three bases, 18 supports, and everydifferent buttons to activate voice amplification, music to thing needed to gather and keep ants, kids can connect
sing along to, and two different drum sounds, the Eco Mic is and customize their very own anti-gravity ant worlds with
an all-in-one music band, with a color-changing light show. Ant-O-Sphere 8 Pods.
THE TOY BOOK
64
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
MEGA Brands Builds Excitement
T
he Mega Bloks Halo Wars sets continue to feature
detailed vehicles and figures, and realistic blocks
with camouflage effect. The battle between the
UNSC and the Covenant continues with the UNSC
Gausshog vs. Covenant Locust construction set. This
375-piece set includes a Red UNSC Gausshog, Covenant
Locust, Covenant Elite, Covenant Brute, two UNSC
Spartans, and two Suicide Covenant Grunts.
Continue to experience the turbo power with Battle
Strikers Series 2, the kid-controlled spinning top battling system. Battle Strikers in Series 2 continue to be
revved up through the new Turbo Launcher and are
then released to execute battle. You have full control
of the Strikers with the integrated controller,
where you continue to drive your Striker
into battle and knock opponents out of the
game using the force of magnetism.
With the Battle Strikers Starter
Pack Series 2, power up your Battle
Strikers Series 2 Turbo Launcher, load it
up with a themed Series 2 Striker, and get
ready to battle. Accelerate your Striker at
more than 6,000 RPM. The Starter Pack Series
2 includes the Turbo Launcher, the Controller, and one
exclusive Striker.
Part of the Build ’N Discover World line, the Rocker
Stacker allows toddlers to experience the wonders of balance and gravity by stacking 11 unique blocks on a special
rocking container. This buildable set includes five shapes
for sorting and stacking, a rattle block, and six extra Maxi
blocks in the rocking storage bucket.
Celebrate a decade of Dora with new Dora the Explorer
building sets. In Dora’s Royal Adventure, join Dora and
live life as a princess with Boots the Monkey as they explore
the wonders of a royal castle. Help find her magic wand or
create your very own castle adventures. This buildable set
THE TOY BOOK
66
includes a Dora figure as a princess, a Boots the Monkey
figure, a friendly bunny, magic wand blocks, flowers, banister blocks, a castle rook, and decorations.
Buckle up and step into Streetz, a toy line where kids
build and customize their own city, then bring it to life with
technology-enhanced micro-scale vehicles. With the Streetz
Raceway, race and chase your opponent through the strip,
smash through the custom shop sign, and release the stunt
action vehicles. The Raceway set comes with
three stunt action vehicles, two vac-metalized stunt action vehicles, two speed
boosters, and three stunt ramps.
New to the Lil’ Vehicles line is the Lil’
Steamboat. This little boat really works
on both land and water. Place your blocks
and buddies in the boat and head out to
sea for adventures anywhere the water may
take you. The portable steamboat
includes a detailed Block Buddy,
Kai-Lan’s Garden
open top feature, transparent storage bottom, and maxi bloks.
Part of the new line of Ni Hao, Kai-Lan sets is
Kai-Lan’s Garden. Kai-Lan and Rintoo need your help
tending to her garden. This scenic buildable set includes
Kai-Lan and Hoho figures in gardening outfits, a healthy
green tree accessory, a wheelbarrow, a shed to store tools
or vegetables, and special vegetable blocks.
Celebrating its 65th anniversary, Thomas & Friends
is now available through Mega Bloks. With Busy Day at
the Quarry, help Thomas and Mavis transport rocks
from the quarry to the dock. Use the storage bucket to
climb and race Thomas and Mavis up and down the
ramps, or use the real-working crane to help Thomas lift
heavy rocks. This buildable, four-foot long set includes
detailed Thomas and Mavis characters, a crane, coal, a
coal chute, buildable blocks, and ramps.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
New Tailgating Game from Little Kids
L
ittle Kids’ Junk Ball Sports brand introduces
Knockers, a new tailgating game. Knockers requires
quickness and skill as players throw a flying disc aimed
at knocking off the knocker while the opposing team tries to
catch the knocker or the flying disc. Completely portable and
easy to assemble, each set includes two stands that are
placed 20 feet apart with a barrel-shaped knocker on top of
each stand. Points are scored when teams knock the
knocker off the stand by throwing the flying disc at it,
and/or if the defense is unable to catch the flying disc.
COntinUed
on
Pa g E 8 4
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Ride Along with Moose Mountain
COntinUed
fRoM
Pa g E 6 8
K
ids can take a ride with Farmer Jed and his animal friends on the
Little People Build ’n Fun Farm Ride-On. The toy includes a
Farmer Jed figure, under seat storage, a working
windmill, farm sounds and tunes, and blocks that kids can
build with and stack.
Players can become ultimate athletes with Moose
Mountain’s ESPN 3 in 1 Skills Challenge. Pitch strikes at
the K-Zone, pass for touchdowns and kick for field goals, or
jolt one straight into the soccer net to score a goal. The target of the game flips down to convert from baseball
target and field goal to football target and soccer net.
Baseballs, a football, and a soccer ball are included.
Uncle Milton Explores the Stars
C
omplete your Jedi training by building your own Lightsaber with the
Star
Wars
Science
Mini
Lightsaber Tech Lab, from Uncle Milton.
Choose from four different colored crystals
and customize your own miniature, 8.25inch version of the Lightsaber used by
Anakin Skywalker.
The Star Wars CT-5 Exploration Unit
lets you survey your corner of the universe
and document the fascinating creatures and
specimens that live right in your
backyard. Use the tools
and earth sifter to
find insects and
other objects so you
can do a close examination. There’s also a
built-in flashlight so
you can search at
night for elusive nocturnal critters.
Basic Fun Offers Carry Along Classics
B
asic Fun continues to roll out new series for
its hottest brands, and Bakugan remains at
the top of the list in Basic Fun’s line. Each
Bakugan Battle Brawlers Mega Key Chain features
the familiar Bakugan Battle Brawler ball, in a slightly oversized format. Each Battle Brawler springs open
and morphs into one of six Bakugan fighters with the
pull of a button. Series 4 and Series 5 are on the way.
Based on Hasbro’s electronic game titles, Basic
Fun will also introduce miniature working versions of
Bop It, Simon, and Catch Phrase in carabiner format.
Each game features the game play of the original,
including lights and sound, while adding the takeeverywhere feature.
As a follow-up to its Twister Take Along line,
Basic Fun will apply its take along ingenuity to its
new Connect 4. This adaptation features a takeeverywhere tube, which unfolds by unhooking a clasp
and then becomes the playing grid. The removable
end caps serve as the base or feet for the grid, and
inside are the legs, checkers, and dump bar, all contained in a zip-sealed poly bag. Basic Fun will start
out with Transformers Take Along Connect 4 and
is working on finalizing deals for several other entertainment properties.
Basic Fun’s Fisher-Price Classics line continues
to grow as the classic TV Radio from 1963 makes its
second debut 46 years later. This preschool radio features a wind-up knob and plays the familiar song
“Farmer in the Dell” while images from the nursery rhyme rotate in the
small window. The outer
case also features
vintage graphics,
complete with song
lyrics, from the
original
nursery
rhyme.
Fisher-Price TV Radio
THE TOY BOOK
84
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Fashion Angels Debuts Heavenly New Toys
F
ashion Angels recently introduced its spin on the collectible puzzle eraser trend
with its CrazErasers line. There will be a new series of CrazErasers out every three
months, adding to the collectability aspect of the line. In 2010, Fashion Angels will
introduce several half-size versions of its Sketch Portfolios. Among the themes will be a
Flower Power Sketch Portfolio to design Boho chic fashions and accessories and a Glitz and
Glam Sketch Portfolio to draw the perfect collection for a night out on the town. Project
Runway versions will also be available, with black packaging and a little more runway edge.
There will also be a new addition to the Project Runway line—The Project Runway Light
Box Fashion Design Set. Girls will use the mini light box to trace clothing outlines onto
their model sketchpads. Then, using the included design guide, they can learn how to add
color and embellishments to their sketches to make the ultimate dream wardrobe.
MerchSource Offers Kid-Friendly Technology
T
he Discovery Kids Teach & Talk Laptop, from MerchSource,
will function similarly to last year’s model, but will be rebranded for Discovery Kids and will be available with either blue or
lavender trim. The new model will feature an updated IC with new and
improved games.
The Discovery Kids Digital Camera is a rugged digital camera that
allows children to shoot pictures and video that they can review on the
LCD screen or download to their computer for sharing. Two new models
will be featured: one with blue handles and a bubble print and one with
lavender handles and a flower print.
The Discovery Kids Fish Lamp serves as a warm and soothing
night-light for children’s rooms while allowing children to gaze into an
“aquarium,” featuring fish that swim by a coral reef. The lamp comes
with an over-sized fold-out poster that educates children about each of
the fish featured.
The Discovery Kids Digital MP3 Boombox is tough enough for
kids to play with. The boombox features speakers for playing music
aloud, eliminating parents’ concerns about hearing damage presented
by headphones. The player comes pre-loaded with 20 kids’ songs,
including originals written by child-friendly bands as well as standards
and old-time favorites. The boombox can also be connected to a computer via USB to load additional music.
The Time & Space Projection Clock is a rocket-shaped alarm
clock available in either blue or pink. The clock projects the current
time and NASA space images
on the ceiling.
The Fun2Save Kids ATM
Bank presents a fun way to
teach children about savings.
It features an ATM card that
children load to activate the
machine, and accepts both
bills and coins. In addition,
children can set their own PIN
to protect their savings.
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= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Brands Unlimited Debuts Delicious Product Line
Wild Planet Debuts Spies, Aliens, Robots, and Cowboys
U
nlike ordinary handcuffs in which the fun is done when the cuffs click shut, Wild Planet’s Spy Handcuffs become
more exciting once a prisoner is captured. In place of a lock, the Spy Handcuffs have a motion-activated alarm.
Instead of tightening in response to tugging, the Spy Handcuffs pop open, setting off a siren to announce an
attempted escape.
The Split-Blaster is a double-barrel dart launcher in which the barrels pivot to launch darts simultaneously in different directions, up to 180 degrees. Spies can take down two enemy agents at once, even if they’re approaching from
opposite sides. The Split-Blaster is six inches long and comes with four soft rubber-tipped darts; one in each adjustable
barrel and two stored beneath for backup. Darts soar a distance of 25 feet or more in each direction, giving spies a 50foot barrier of protection.
Squatz are a new line of compact collectibles with interchangeable heads. Each 1.5-inch figure is embedded in a solid
tablet twice its size, wrapped, and labeled with a question mark.
Kids can choose from robots, aliens, pirates, or ninjas, but the
exact character hiding in their tablet is a mystery upon purchase. When a tablet is submerged
Squatz
in a bowl of warm water, it
begins to fizz, building suspense as kids wait for the concealing case to dissolve and
reveal
their
collectible
Squatz. Each figure has the
same distinct shape and a
removable head that fits all other
Squatz bodies. Kids can trade duplicate parts to build their own
custom Squatz, mixing pirate skulls and alien bodies, or ninja
heads and robot torsos. The options increase with each addition
to their collection.
Wild Planet’s newest active learning game will feature the
stars of Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story 3. Woody’s Run-Around
Roundup is set for release in late spring. The game promotes
physical and mental exercise. It can be played indoors or out,
solo or in teams, and does not require the use of a computer or
television. Woody (atop his horse Bullseye) is the electronic
handheld tagger and his Toy Story co-stars Buzz Lightyear,
Jesse, Hamm, and Rex are targets. Players listen for Woody to
call out clues about different characters, then run to and tag the
corresponding targets.
THE TOY BOOK
88
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
B
rands Unlimited Inter national, LLC debuts a mouth-watering
confection of fun and functional gadgets featuring the M&M’s
brand candy characters. Designed and pr oduced by Brands Unlimited
under license fr om Mars, Inc., each item in the intr oductory line is value priced
at under $25.
Beginning this season, 14 all-new M&M’s-branded SKUs will be made available to consumers at mass-market, drug, grocery, and specialty stores nationwide. A dozen additional M&M’s licensed products will be introduced in 2010. From desk lamps to shower radios,
the 2009 M&M’s lineup is designed to make everyday activities a little sweeter. The new collection includes FM scan radios, LED desk lamps, computer lights, computer fans, computer
hubs, mug warmers, goose neck lamps, AM/FM digital alarm clock radios, and AM/FM show-
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009
89
THE TOY BOOK
= Fall Toy Preview 2009 =
Real Robotics from Robonica
R
obonica enters the world of artificial intelligence with Roboni-i
Action Games, competitive gameplay with real robots and
online entertainment. At the center of the games is Roboni-i, a
two-wheeled robot that does tricks, turns at a moment’s notice, and
reacts to obstacles and interferences. The robot is fully programmable
and equipped with four processors, a speaker, and 16 sensors, including
11 infrared sensors, a radio sensor, and a touch sensor. Players can program the robot’s personality with command center software that can be
downloaded on their computer. The robot connects to computers through
a USB port, which players can also use to design and play their own
games and schedule matches for competitions with other robots.
Street Surfing’s Scooter
with a Twist
Douglas Has Awesome Owls & Cool Cats
H
oot Couture Owl and Purple Night Owl, from
Douglas Co., are seven inch-wide and 11 inch-tall
silhouettes of a majestic owl. Aqua Daisy Chain
Cat and Rainbow Sherbet Cat are 11 inch-wide and nine
inch-tall silhouettes of a perfect cat.
Each bag is fashioned with citruscolored prints and patterned, soft
cotton fabric. Stitch and corded
details outline each bag. The
chic shoulder strap style and
"working purse" zipped closure
are perfect for young
fashionistas on the go.
T
he smooth ride of a scooter combines with a
caster board’s ability to carve and drift in the
Whiplash, by Street
Surfing. With Whiplash, riders
can gain enough momentum to self-propel, so
much that their feet
never need to touch
the
ground.
The
scooter-caster board
hybrid features an
extra wide, skateinspired, flexing deck, a
webbed design, and an extra long
lightweight handlebar that
allows riders to move side to
side. The folding handle also
eases travel and storage.
THE TOY BOOK
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2009