Saturday, June 25, 2011

Exo Force LEGOs Are Just Way Too Cool

If thoughts of Sentai Mountain are flooding your head at this time, and you are familiar with that phrase way back in 2006 when this popular mecha genre from Japanese manga and anime first rocked television, welcome to the club. It's either you yourself are an avid fan, or have children who were constantly glued to the TV whenever characters like Hikaru, Keiken and Meca One hit the screen.

With a captivating storyline, action-filled scenes, and a star-studded cast pitting robots against humans, it's no wonder that the world of Exo Force has crossed media and literature and is now a popular LEGO craze.

For most mecha fans out there, they have long used LEGO bricks to make their designs on their interpretations of classic mecha. When LEGO decided to make a whole toy line based on the Exo Force theme, it could not have come at a better time. There was an ongoing regular online comic that showcased all the details of the events in the LEGO sci-fi world. Along with that was a number of short cartoons (2 minutes) aired on primary children stations such as Nickelodeon. Everything fit into place.

Hobbyists and Exo Force Lego enthusiasts can appreciate the range of sets available like the Battle Support Sentry, Combat Crawler Plus X2 and the Sentai Fortress. Some of the battle machines such as the Stealth Hunter, Thunder Fury, or Grand Titan come with a unit designation, minifig and an alternative model. One can get these items at quality LEGO shops or discounted LEGO stores at prices that range anywhere from $20 to more than $150, depending on the popularity, design and model.

There are also online merchants that provide you with better deals and might even have the exact type you are looking for. If you decide on this option, be sure to check the specifications of the model you choose, as well as the total amount including shipping. Some sites offer free shipping for bulk purchases.

Of course, one of the coolest things about these Exo Force LEGOs is the combination feature. With just a few adjustments and re-building, two or more battle machines can be joined together to make one super battle machine. You or your child may be familiar with the Assault Tiger / Chamelon Hunter combination, or the Dark Panther / Storm Lasher rolled into one.

It's definitely a great reason for fans and collectors to make sure they have the complete and original set!

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey - The Christmas 2010 Sell Out!

It seems that Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey is already destined to become the hot toy for Christmas 2010.

With remote controlled action, including some charmingly, rude gestures it has been tipped as a definite favourite by many of the major toy retailers who are already re-ordering extra stock to meet the huge demand. And this kind of virtual-pet toy has been very popular before and it looks as if toy history will repeat itself this Christmas 2010.

But there is already an ominous warning from Dave the Monkey's manufacturer, Wow! Stuff. They say that they will struggle to satisfy the demand as Christmas approaches. A shortage is likely, so we can envisage harassed parents searching all the local toy shops for this little cheeky monkey.

It may become the toy that every child wants but just cannot be bought. And some are predicting a price surge and if Dave the Funky Monkey starts to appear on eBay then high prices are expected.

The interest in the US for Dave has been promoted by Toys-R-Us who has officially listed Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey as a hot kid's toy that is likely to be bought from all of its US nationwide stores.

Dave is manufactured in China and to deal with the worldwide demand, a third production centre is to be opened. This additional factory aims to produce 450,000 toys but it is feared that this extra stock will not hit the toy shops in time for the Christmas rush. But it is believed that the UK should have around 70% of its demand fully satisfied but the US market may be the big losers. It is reported that only about 7 -10% of the US demand - estimated to be about one million units - is expected to be met for the Christmas holiday. Naturally, parents are being urged to shop and order now. Otherwise it may just be too late.

Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey is certainly captivating and will probably be just as popular with adults as with the 5 to 12 year age group for which it was originally designed. Recently, I attended a fancy dress party and met a Pirates-of-the-Caribbean type character sporting Dave the Monkey as a humorous,shoulder accessory. Could this be the start of a new trend I wonder!

Well, Dave the Monkey certainly has a unique charm and appeals to those who love cute, furry little creatures. He sits securely on your shoulder, is about 20 cm (8 inches) in height and resembles a black, squirrel monkey with white fur surrounding a pink face, hands and feet. The small, remote control unit can produce the effects of singing, laughing, burping (top and bottom!) and blowing raspberries. He can also turn his head and wave to onlookers. So, by hiding the remote control in your pocket, you can then surprise the passing public with his antics, tricks and assorted sounds.

The Dave the Funky Shoulder Monkey kit consists of the monkey itself plus the remote control unit with full instructions. Insert a 9V battery and the fun can begin!

But it seems the race is on to get your own Dave the Monkey before he becomes extinct!!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Different My Pillow Pets Tiger Options

Having a great looking stuffed animal is nice, but what really makes people buy from a company is the different options they have to choose from. My Pillow Pets has done a fantastic job of creating a variety of products, and a variety of animals to choose from. That has made them very popular as a gift idea and has made them something children really enjoy having. My Pillow Pets Tiger has become one of the great options available to children. There are a couple of fantastic choices available for this item that makes finding the right gift very easy to do.

The most popular option for the My Pillow Pet Tiger is the biggest option, which is the My Pillow Pets Tiger 18" model. This item is full sized, and kids love it because it is big and cuddly. Kids have always enjoyed having big stuffed animals and this product is no exception to that rule. It also looks fantastic with a great orange color, black stripes, a white face, a big black nose, a short tail, and of course it is made out of a soft plush material that everyone loves. The look is fantastic, the size is great, and you can easily see why this particular model because the most popular one by far.

The second option that is popular, but a little less popular than the full sized model would be the My Pillow Pets Tiger 11" version. This item is going to look identical to the larger version in color and design, with the only differences being that it is smaller and less expensive. Younger children often like this version a little bit more than the bigger version because it is easier for them to carry around and play with. It is also a very good travel companion because it is easy to tuck away, but still can be used as a pillow or a stuffed animal when needed.

Both options are great and are something kids are going to love. The dual purposes of these products, paired with the nice selection, and the great look that these stuffed animals have, making them a very popular item in the toy market. Parents also love having these items because they are very affordable, very durable, and something that they know their kids are going to love. With all of that in mind, you can easily see how these My Pillow Pets toys have shot up the popularity charts for toys, and why they are going to be such a hot item during Christmas, and basically anytime parents are looking for a wonderful gift.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Discover the World of Squinkies

Whether you are looking for a new and unique toy for the children in your life or are an avid toy collector yourself, Squinkies may be the ideal toy choice for you. These engaging and appealing mini dolls and their accompanying accessories may open up a world of fun and creativity. Moreover, Squinkies may be the next big thing in terms of cute collectibles.

Initially released in mid 2010, the original Squinkies collection included ninety-six tiny dolls. The first half dozen series that were released included sixteen dolls apiece, along with accompanying pet dolls. Popping open the cute bubble packs reveals the Squinkies, plus cute surprises as well. The popularity of the initial three themes will most likely lead to even more appealing dolls and themes becoming available to consumers.

The original birthday, princess, and fantasy-themed Squinkies packs come with bracelets, rings, or even an additional friend as part of the included surprise. Along with the many pets, play sets, and other accessories available, the Squinkies line offers a virtually unlimited combination of playing, trading, and collecting fun.

As new Squinkies dolls are released, the line will eventually feature many more themes and hundreds of collectible figures as well. Moreover, children who love Squinkies may delight in the virtually never-ending combinations they may create with the play sets, pets, and dolls. Regular releases of products will most likely lead to happy anticipation for what will come next. From creating a mini zoo to creating a princess-packed fantasy world, Squinkies may provide hours of imaginative fun.

Current play sets include a gumball playhouse, a mini bake shop, as well as other enticing play sets. These versatile toys may be thoroughly enjoyed during solitary or group play. For children who are particularly fond of computer games, the official online community may be a creative and satisfying outlet as well. Moreover, the Squinkies website may be a great way to find the best places to shop, find out about rare Squinkies, and keep up with latest news and products.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Squinkies Gumball Surprise Playhouse

With Squinkies Gumball Surprise Playhouse you can now bring the fun and captivation of those gumball machines that kids love to your home. The sight of gumball machines in the mall or other places can perk up any kid and personally they take me back to my own childhood days. Now you can bring your own gumball machine home with Squinkies Surprise Playhouse.

It is easy to see why the entire line from Squinkies is already a bestseller and by my estimations they will be flying off the shelves long before the holidays.

Due to the small parts this set is only recommended for children four years and over so be careful if you have younger ones in the home.

Here is what I love about the Gumball Surprise Playhouse:
This can turn out to be quite a collection. In addition to the Squinkies Gumball Surprise Playhouse you will want to get the Cupcake Surprise Playhouse and the Palace Surprise too.
Kids of any age will enjoy them. They will especially love the Squinkies and want to collect the various bubble packs too.
There are multiple ways to enjoy this toy so kids will no doubt get hours of fun out of it. They can dispense the Squinkies using coins from the Gumball machine, they can open the sides and just play house or have fun with just the Squinkies.
The Squinkies come in their individual bubbles that you can open and take them out of and just enjoy their squishy softness and once you're done place them back into their bubbles and into the machine.
Additional bubble packs can be purchased separately to increase the fun. Each pack comes with sixteen Squinkies.
Squinkies are priced just right so the budget conscious parent will be happy giving this gift that any child will be happy to unwrap.

Cons:
There is little that can be said against this toy. The only problem is that I fear that before the holiday shopping begins these gems will be nowhere to be found. As it is, they just do not last on the shelves at popular toy stores and even online there is very limited stock available.
The only other con that I can think of is that once you get started with Squinkies you won't want to stop collecting them. There are quite a few series available soothe cost of collecting them all will add up.

All in all, Squinkies Gumball Surprise and the entire line of Squinkies Toys makes my list of hot toys for 2010.

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Children's Pillow Pets

Occasionally a product comes as pets pillow. I'm telling a similar entry, but something to catch fire, and then seems to be a trend around the world. Lately, it seems to come more often. Silly Bandz and Webkinz come to mind and how it seems, marketers trying to sell to children, but the recent success can be a smart business plan benefits.

Not that there's something sneaky animal pillow. And 'the opposite.This product combines function with fun and useful. This is the recipe for success seems not only parents, but in this case, children! There is nothing worse for a parent, as irritated by their children, buy a toy, while spending on something else. But how can you deny any child who is asked something so useful and can be used as a secret weapon of a parent? A secret weapon you ask? Well, what a child does not want an excuse for those who go to bed when you are able, should be rememberedmake them go to bed with the bat pet pillow? Pretty sneaky, but sometimes necessary, with our children.

If you have been living under a rock and have no idea what I'm talking about pillow animals are a relatively new stuffed animal to love children. It is plush, soft and very funny. You are more than just plush stuffed animals, to turn it into a pillow for nap time, bedtime or plane. If the children are asleep do not only fold it back up to the individual clipsBelt through the stomach and then I stuffed animals are great for free-standing hugging and squeezing.

You will see children pulling the cushion animal around with you everywhere. They offer the same sense of security and familiarity, like a blanket, but are ideal to take a toy boy. A little 'as this trend has begun to have access, these things are a little' small children state symbol. With over 30 different styles that has collected around theHobbies.

Much like the Beanie Babies fashion, adults are starting to do it yourself. They are perfect for your lap while watching TV, and they're fun, but functional decor for dorms and apartments. They are so cute I am also looking through the ads for the best for the children in my life, family and colleagues to obtain. They are great gifts and the recipient will appreciate the versatility of these stuffed animals, like anyare the most recent and most talked about on TV. It's part of who we are and this will fall as a part of pop culture in 2010. Heck, it even shows on the pillow YouTube intelligent animals as characters. There is much to do with this hobby improvised, but one thing is certain, these things become part of our lives for a long time.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Toy Story 3 Toys - Is It a Collector's Item?

Is Toy Story 3 toy a collector's item? Well, it cannot be denied that over the years there are many movies theme toys which are fast becoming collector's items. Especially with the success of the movie, the toys will become even more valuable for collectors. After the end of the second film, no one ever think that Woody and Jessie could become such a big hit with collectors. In the third sequel, the toys have to go through a tough trial of being kept in the roof space, the college or garbage. The third film, being the end of the franchise without doubt is full of entertainment. After all, it sure is rare to produce a sequel after 11 years. Will today's children still relate to the third installment like those children of 11 and 15 years ago? Well luckily for Pixar, it turned out to be a blockbuster of 2010. Some of the collector's favourite characters.

Talking Sheriff Woody

This definitive collectors deluxe edition Woody figure has both Toy Sheriff and Interactive Woody modes and when you talk to Woody. He knows if you shout or talk normal and could react accordingly to your voice tone. It has a soft rag doll body with film precise paint details.

Buzz Lightyear

This Toy Story Collection: Buzz Lightyear Action Figure -- 12'' will definitely be a hit with any Toy Story fans. This cool highly detailed, Buzz Lightyear figure is the most authentic model being made and has lots of incredible features! He is very fluent and clear in speech, has special sound effects, speaks using the actual voice, and when you talk with him, can respond by talking and moving his head. Being the ultimate Space Ranger his task is to bring forth out of this world enjoyment!

Jessie and Bullseye

This fully expressive Jessie and Bullseye doll remind us of the episode where Jessie leads the way to save the day to life. You would expect the size of Jessie and Bullseye to be almost the exact replica from the movie. Jessie's hair is made of yarn, and with hard plastic as her body. You can turn her head, her hat can be removed, and her arms and legs are movable. Bullseye comes with a plastic body and legs which is hard and has a plastic neck which is soft. A sure winner for collectors!

Besides the above, there are many more worthwhile Toy Story 3 toys that you can collect. Do consider one of these toys as a collection, you will never know that one day it will be priceless and could make you a fortune.