TODAY’S TOY TEST 2003’: WINNING SCHOOL-AGE TOYS
BRATZ KRAZY-KOOL KARAOKE MACHINE BY MGA ENTERTAINMENT
Kids love Karaoke! Toymakers have noticed; we had five karaoke toys entered in this year’s toy test. This one was the standout favorite. The Krazy-Kool Karaoke Machine has a built-in 5.5-inch black and white display, two microphones with extra long cords (perfect for sing-alongs with a friend) and special effects features, such as echo. It comes with a CD of four hip songs, such as: “Get the Party Started,” and “1000 Miles.” This is the music that’s so popular with “tweens,” the same crowd that’s made the Bratz line of funky fashion dolls a hit.
EDGERUNNER 2 BY TAIYO EDGE R/C
This is a new version of the popular EdgeRunner (no longer made) that is every bit as exciting as the original — it’s just smaller and lower-priced. This 4-wheel-drive stunt vehicle has twin motors, and huge, hi-torque “Gyro” wheels. It’s fast and fun! The twin-stick transmitter makes it real easy to do jumps, end-over-end flips, and quad spins on two wheels. Use the exclusive Stunt Pegs to “Run the Edge” on two wheels. By the way, you’ll find the same toy, with a custom paint job and a different name, GyroMax, at Discover Stores for around $50 (including battery pak).
MARIO KART: DOUBLE DASH!! FOR GAMECUBE:
Tied at number two is the top-rated GameCube title, Nintendo’s Mario Kart: Double Dash!! Once again Mario and friends are making a mad dash to the finish line. This time the action is faster, the competition is more frantic. It’s pure chaos! The great thing about this game is it appeals to all ages. Teenagers and parents loved it just as much as the younger kids. Mario Kart: Double Dash!! is a GameCube exclusive, rated E for everyone.
THOMAS & FRIENDS SODOR RESCUE TEAM BY RC2
This is the latest in a long line of winning Thomas & Friends play sets. This combined track and roadway set has 100 wooden pieces, including: Thomas the Tank Engine, Harold the Helicopter, Butch the Towtruck, an ambulance, fire truck. It features the popular Rescue Hospital and Fire Station. There’s also the Arched Stone Bridge, and Single Stone Tunnel. The sturdy wooden storage box, decorated with Thomas artwork, has a pad on top, so it doubles as a bench. One teacher commented that this toy is “beautifully made.” Like other Thomas & Friends toys, this set is guaranteed for life.
ENJOY!
