Wooden 3D Puzzle - Racing Car, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature: Type:             Wooden 3D puzzle 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️     

Recommended age:    7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who enjoys woodwork/ craft activities/ 3D puzzles 

We love the build-it-yourself plywood puzzles from Funyards Australia - they are not difficult to execute, and always give us such satisfying sense of achievement. Today, let’s talk about “Wooden 3D Puzzle - Racing Car”. 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) Laser-Cut Plywood 3D Puzzle With 29 Pieces 

The set comes with a single wooden sheet with removable laser-cut plywood pieces, and a one-page assembly instructions guide. First, gently push out the laser cut wooden pieces (there are a total of 29 individuals pieces) - all can be easily popped out and removed without the need of tool. The illustrated guide has clear step-by-step guide with each of the puzzle pieces labelled for easy reference. To build the race car, simply insert and join the pieces together by following the sequence and guide of the assembly instructions. Starting from the main body of the car and its cockpit, fix the front part and side doors, attach the wheels and rear wing, and finally, gives it a last touch by connecting the steering wheel and front wing. It’s a delightful  process that requires a reasonable measure of dexterity and concentration - it took our 8 year-old 15-minute to complete the build. It was a pleasant, stress-free activity, with no fancy gadgets or tools required. 

(2) Cool Racing Car Design 

I love the design of the puzzle structure. The racing car has sufficient details to make it interesting. Symmetrical on both sides with all pieces securely connected - it doesn’t take up much space, and makes such a gorgeous vehicle to be incorporated into imaginative play. 

(3) Precisely Crafted With Good Connection 

Like all of Funyards Australia timber sets - the puzzle pieces are laser-cut, precisely done with gaps and links for easy insertion/ connection between the pieces. No glue is needed for this project. The set includes a small piece of sand paper to smooth out the edges and wooden surfaces. 

(4) Flat-Pack Packaging + Clearly Illustrated Instruction Guide 

I love that the puzzle is flat-pack with minimal packaging. The instruction is clearly illustrated, all pieces are labeled on the guide and are easily identifiable. Our 8 year-old was able to build it independently and he thoroughly enjoyed the process. According to the information included, this product passed CE and ASTM test. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia (Etsy Site) 

Check out my reviews on other similar wooden building kits from Funyards Australia: 

• 3D Wooden Marble Run Puzzle Craft, By Funyards Australia 
• Build It Yourself Model Monster Truck, By Funyards Australia 
• Bulldozer, By Funyards Australia 

Enjoy the video! 

The Happy Marshmallow Game, By Peaceable Kingdom - REVIEW

Nature: Type:             Game for toddlers 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    2 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Parents looking for creative, developmental / learning games for toddlers 

This “The Happy Marshmallow Game” from Peaceable Kingdom is designed for “2-year-old” - or so I thought, until I tested it out with my 5 year-old. We laughed so much playing with these pretend sweet treats, incorporating the components into our invented games. We’re loving it, thank you VR Distribution for providing this. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) A Marshmallow Game To Boost Fine Motor & Social Skills

This is a wonderful toy to boost fine motor skills, learn color matching and counting, practise social skills such as following instructions and taking turns. Using the 2 marshmallow roasting sticks and 12 marshmallows (in pairs for 6 colours) - our little player draws one of the 12 marshmallow cards, finds the right marshmallow that matches the illustration, and threads it on the roasting stick. Each roasting stick can hold up to 4 (to 5) marshmallows on it. Kids can play it solo or cooperatively with a friend to get their 2 campfire sticks ready for a delicious snack! All the components are chunky and designed for little hands. We love the engaging and eye-catching marshmallow theme for a fantastic playtime! 

(2) One Toy - Multiple Ways To Play

The instructions include other ways to play: The 12 Marshmallow cards are perfect for a travel-friendly classic matching / memory game (flip 2 cards face-up one at a time to match a pair); we can build a marshmallow tower with the lightweight pieces, or play “magic wand” with the sticks. We also invented a few more games for my older kids including “Guess The Colours”, and “Order Your Marshmallow” game using the cards as “menu” - which we thoroughly enjoyed! 

(3) Marshmallows With Faces & Cute Expressions

The marshmallow are soft to touch but solid enough to slot into the sticks easily. I really love that each of the marshmallow has a “face” on it with a slightly different expression for each of the 6 designs. I love the sweet, mellow tone of the colours that gives a calm and soothing feel. 

(4) Pretend Campfire & Helpful Parent Guide 

The set also includes 2 pretend flame pieces that can be connected as a “campfire” to enhance the play experience! The included parent guide sets out some useful tips on how to play with a 2 year-old and helpful information about developmental skills from multiple aspects for kids of 24-36 months. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.thecoffeeapple.com.au/products/the-happy-marshmallow-game (Australia) 

https://www.boardgamemaster.com.au/products/the-happy-marshmallow-game (Australia) 

Enjoy the video!

Letter Links, By FlexiQ Games - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Board game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️     

Recommended age:   6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Parents looking for a fun and educational (phonics learning) game 

“Letter Links” by FlexiQ Games is a nice little addition to our kids board game collection: it has succinct and quick-to-learn game rules; almost zero setting up time, short and sweet game play (perfect for little people with short attention span), compact and travel-easy, and can be played almost anywhere and anytime. Thank you VR Distribution for providing a copy! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) A Fantastic Game To Learn Sound Patterns 

This is a fantastic game for school-age kids who are exploring the wonderful world of phonology, and getting themselves familiar with frequently-occurring sound patterns. The set includes 60 double-sided card: one side of the cards features 3 letters (2 red and 1 blue) each, and the reverse side of the cards features images of 7 unrelated and random objects/ animals. The game rules is pretty straightforward: be the first player to find the magic “link” - match a letter (from one card) with an image (from another card placed beside it) that starts with the corresponding letter. For example, “D” matches with “duck”, “S” matches with “socks”, and “H” matches with “helicopter”. The winner is the little champion who won (collected) most of the cards by the end of the game. The mechanism is intuitive. The gameplay is fast, stimulating, and strangely addictive. Our two kids love it! 

(2) 2 Ways To Play, 2 Difficulty Levels 

I love that the game rules provide 2 different difficulty levels. In the starter level, players only look at the 2 red letters, and need only to spot 1 image that matches 1 of the 2 red letters to win. In the advanced level, players look at all the 3 letters and must call out 2 correct “links” to win a card. 

(3) Colourful & Appealing Images 

The images are colourful and appealing. I love the hexagonal cards design and image arrangement (that suits a multi-player game very well). With a wide variation combinations of 3 letters and 7 images in 60 cards, this game has an impressively high playability! 

(4) Stay Focus & Think Fast!

I love a kids game with educational value - not only does it allow the kids to learn about phonics sounds, it also trains the kids to stay focus, connect pieces of information, think fast and flexibly - and really, no one minds a little bit of competitive fun 😉. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.bigw.com.au/product/letter-links-card-game/p/9900034244 (Australia) 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/letter-links/ (Australia) 

https://www.thecoffeeapple.com.au/products/letter-links (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Meow! Wooden Balance Game, By Londji - REVIEW

Nature: Type:             Balancing toys 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who loves adorable things/ kittens/ balance games / wooden collectibles 

Londji balancing toys are a series of masterpiece that showcases unsurpassed beauty and elevated craftsmanship. Check out “Meow! Wooden Balance Game” (thank you Antipoda Co for providing this!). 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Adorable Balancing Game To Challenge Fine Motor & Problem-Solving Skills 

Included in this set is a super adorable stripy kitten with rounded back - “rolling” on the ground like a playful roly-poly that wobbles but never falls. You also get 15 wooden balls (shaped like skeins of wool) - 5 in large size and 10 in smaller size. I love the clever design with various “balancing points” distributed at different parts of Miss Meow - you can fit at least 3 balls on its tummy, a large one between its mischievous face and its front paw, a few more around its back legs and tail. This is an addictive, gravity-defying game for all ages! We stacked them up, cheered at our little victories, and laughed like a baby in a game of Peekaboo whenever our kitty cat dropped its yarn balls and sent them tumbling down and scattering all over the room. If you (or your kids) are keen for some fine motor skill challenges, problem-solving and perseverance tests - this is an incredible toy that would guarantee some big giggles and mind-stimulating fun. 

(2) More Than One Way To Play & Balance 

We soon discovered there are more than just one way to arrange our kitty cat and wooden balls. We added a ball underneath the kitten’s back to create a sloping challenge; We flipped Miss Meow around with head pointed downwards (in “downward dog” yoga pose), and tried to get the balls securely lined up on its tilted, arched back. I love the playfulness, and the hint of vintage and romantic feel of this toy. 

(3) Made-In-Spain Quality Wooden Toy 

Londji toys are “Made in Spain”, manufactured using solid beech wood and vegetable dyes. This is an heirloom quality toy made with great attention to detail. Each Londji comes with a EC certification, guaranteeing compliance with European Standard EN71 Safety Requirements for Toys. I also really love the creative book-like packaging made of recycling material - it’s artistically done with cutouts for each components (love how organised it is), completes with an elastic closure for easy storing. 

Love it! ❤️

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Antipoda Co (Australia) 

Check out more of my reviews on Londji wooden toys: 

• The Fox And The Mouse, By Londji 
• My Wooden World Farm, By Londji 
• The Acrobat Brothers, By Londji 

Enjoy the video! 

World Safari-Premium, By Creative Educational Aids - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Board game / card game  

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   9 year-old ++ (or all ages!) 

Who would love this: Kids and grown-ups that love travelling and learning about the world & countries 

 “World Safari-Premium” by Creative Educational Aids magically transports us around the world; from Taj Mahal, Great Wall of China, back to Sydney Opera House - all in one game! We are loving it! Thank you Divisible by Zero for providing this! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Spin The Spinner & Identify A Country On World Map

The set includes a foldable play board and 6 play pieces - it has the classic Monopoly feel, save that now we are using an in-built spinner as dice, and there’s not much “chance” in this game (you gotta know your geographic knowledge to gain an advantage!). To play this game, spin the spinner (with 50 country names), read the country name, and shout out the country number on the world map to advance the given number of spaces on the play path. You will need to identify the exact location of Jamaica, Algeria, Argentina, Greece, and Egypt to move your pieces! Too tough? Fear not! The spinner gives a “colour clue” to narrow down the selections. For example, Japan is coded as “purple”, which matches its colour on the world map. The map also has labels showing the continents, oceans, seas for extra hints. 

(2) Fun Facts In Different Topics - Continents & Countries/ Geographic Features & More 

Of course, there is more! Each space on the path presents a challenge in 5 different topics. There are a total of 864 questions (answers provided) and 35 visual challenges. The questions cover continents and countries (eg continent with world’s largest desert ‘the Sahara’), geographic features (eg describe a hot spring), people and places (eg name the world’s largest port), general knowledge (which ocean contains the most islands), and visual challenge (where players are asked to guess a landmark site or animal from an image with brief description). I love that the questions cover a wide levels of difficulty - so all ages can play! 

(3) 50 Information Cards & 50 Country Cards - More Ways To Play!

The set also includes 50 information cards (contains facts such as capital, cities, languages, currency, flag, trivia facts of a country), and 50 country cards (with illustrated map showing surrounding nations, area in sq km, and population). There are a few suggested ways to play with these cards, including matching game, memory game, clue game, quiz game and more! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://littlewishestoys.com.au/products/worldsafari (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Mathcubes – Place Value, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Mathematics Resource 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Parents/ teachers looking for creative and innovative mathematics teaching aids 

I’m a big fan of Junior Learning and its creatively designed learning resources that make mathematics fun and visually exciting. Today, I would love to share about “Junior Learning Mathcubes – Place Value” - a new multipurpose set to help kids to dive into the world of number digits and values! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Connectable Beads & Line Cubes To Learn Number Values 

This set has everything we need to help kids to visualise number connections through a series of hand-on activities. My favourite components are the 12 yellow line cubes and the 30 connectable green beads. Each of the yellow cubes is printed with the value it represents- “O, T, H, Th, Tth, Hth, M” (“One” to “Million”). And it doesn’t stop there; the cubes also can be used to show the decimal numeral system. One cube is labeled with decimal separator (represented by a “dot”), and more cubes with non-integer value (i.e. value of non whole number) - “t, h, th, tth”. This is an innovative “flexible abacus” - the beads are connectable and stand upright / vertically, the yellow base cubes are labelled with place value for easy reference (including the value of non-integer digits), and the components are vibrant and appealing. 

(2) "Ten Hundreds" Board + "Ten-Tens" Sticks + "Ten-Ones" Cubes

The set also includes 3 “ten hundreds” board (blue board divided into 100 squares in the grid of 10x10), 10 “ten-tens” sticks (green rectangular piece in a line of 10 squares), and 20 “ten-ones” cubes (mini yellow cubes - each representing the value “1”). These are some versatile, essential classroom items to show the relationship between smaller and larger numbers, and the concept of “10s”. 

(3) 30 Activities To Use With Components 

I LOVE the 15 double-sided activity cards that show 30 progressively challenging activities and step-by-step instructions. For example, there are activities teaching the kids how to do “addition” and “subtraction” using the “ten-tens” sticks and “ten-ones” cubes; cards helping kids to visualise the concept of “percentage” using the blue “ten hundreds” board as the base representing the whole 100%; cards about “rounding-up” (or “rounding-down”) using the green beads, and more! The activities are stimulating, fun, and cover a wide array of concepts (from simple to complex!). 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://juniorlearning.com.au/collections/new-products/products/mathcubes-place-values

Check out more reviews on Junior Learning mathematics resources: 

• Mathcubes - Angles, By Junior Learning 
• Food Fractions, By Junior Learning 
• Time Table Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 
• Multiplication Dominoes, By Junior Learning 
• 100s Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 

Enjoy the video! 

Imaginary Fauna - Desert, By Lekkid - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Creative building toy 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Kids that love to build and create 

You might have seen my recent review on “Imaginary Fauna - Jungle” from Lekkid. It’s playful and fascinating in so many ways! Today, let’s talk about “Imaginary Fauna - Desert” - a compatible Lekkid building set that would guarantee to captivate both kids and grown-ups! 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 22 Magnetic Pieces To Create Imaginary Creatures & Objects 

This set includes 22 magnetic pieces in a yellow cylindrical storage box. It has parts that can make a range of interesting creations - elephant, birds, camels, and other imaginary (and silly) creatures or objects. There is a wooden curvy-shaped piece that resembles an elephant trunk (or a “Mermaid tail” 🧜‍♀️ according to my girl), a flat-piece “hump” for the camel, a unique piece that looks like a pair of “phoenix wings” (or gorgeous antlers for a moose), a clear yellow part like a pair of antennae for honeybee, a blue “propeller” part that can be used for jet plane, pieces for legs, and our kids’s favourite red “fire”. The storage box says we can create “500,000 desert creatures” with the set - I can’t verify that, and I doubt the statement is referring to 500,000 real form of living species. Having said that, the kids are having GREAT fun building numerous wild, impossible, never-seen-before, and outlandish objects! It’s a toy with BIG possibilities to unleash our unstoppable creativity! 

(2) Beautiful Natural Beech Wood + Playful Acrylic Pieces 

it’s incredible to watch the beautiful interaction between two materials - the solidness of natural beech wood AND the playfulness of light shining through the translucent acrylic pieces. 

(3) Magnetic Polarity - Enhances Problem Solving Skills 

Similar to the Jungle set, the pieces can be interconnected by magnets, and dealing with polarity is an integral part of the fun. The kids need to constantly adjust and test out the pieces from both ends to fit the parts together to form their invented models. I was initially worried that the kids might get frustrated with the challenge, but as it turned out - the kids didn’t mind a bit. They’re loving the experience and problem-solving opportunity! 

(4) Conforms To Toy Safety Standard 

Lekkid is designed in Barcelona. The toy conforms to international standard of toy safety including ASTM F963 and EN71. This is an exciting toy that we really love. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.lekkid.com/imaginary-fauna-desert/ (Website) 

Check out my reviews on more Lekkid toys: 

• Imaginary Fauna - Jungle, By Lekkid 
• Magical Lights, By Lekkid 

Enjoy the video: 

Boom Goes The Dynamite, By ok2win - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Card game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

  

Recommended age:   7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Kids that enjoy memory games + numbers / maths 

What happens when you take a basic matching game, and throw in some number elements and “explosive” twists? You get a crazily FUN  game that ignites competitive strategy and luck! Thank you Divisible by Zero for sending “Boom Goes The Dynamite” from ok2win over. We were blown away, utterly! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Memory Game With A "Number" Twist 

This set includes 84 cards, divided into 2 major decks - Match Cards and Ignite Cards. First, shuffle the two decks; place 9 Match Cards face down in 3x3 arrangement, and each player gets 3 Ignite Cards. On each turn, player flips 2 Match Cards over - if the cards are the same number, you’ve found a match! But, if the cards are not of the same number, you can use ignite cards in your hands (with maths formulas such as -1,  x2, +3 etc) to create a match. For example, if you turn over 7 and 5, you can use a “-2” card to “ignite a match! Once a match is found or “ignited”, set aside the matched cards by adding them into a player’s pile. Next, replenish that Match Cards. A player’s turn continues until a player is unable to find/ ignite a match. When a player’s turn is completed, draw sufficient Ignite Cards to 3 again. The winner is the one with the most cards in the player’s pile at the end of the game! 

(2) Surprise Explosion - It's The Dynamite Card! 

So, where is the “BOOM”, you asked? That’s where the power of dynamite comes in! There are 2 “Dynamite” cards hidden within the 60 Match Cards. When you turn over a Dynamite card, you keep the Dynamite and every cards that it’s touching (in other words - it’s an explosive “windfall”!). For example, if you flip and reveal a Dynamic card positioned in the middle of the 9 Matching Cards, you get to collect all 9 Match Cards and add them into your pile! 

(3) Timer Cards & Wild Cards - The Fun Never Ends! 

The Ignite deck also includes 3 Timer cards - which gives a player 10 seconds to turn over all 9 Matching Cards to find or ignite as many matches as possible. There are also 3 Wild Cards included - like classic UNO, it can be used to represent any formula to ignite a match / or add 5 seconds to a Timer card. 

This is a brilliant game - compact, travel-easy, quick to learn, and entertaining! Love it! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.thetherapystore.com.au/boom-goes-the-dynamite (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Good Night, By Londji - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Board game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

  

Recommended age:   3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Young board-gamers, especially those that enjoy memory games & cute things! 

Ah, the good old memory game! Flip two cards over, find the matching pair, turn the cards face-down if you get it wrong, repeat. Londji “Good Night” game is a playful twist to the classic - seriously, this is the top few cutest memory games I had ever seen! (Thank you Antipoda Co ) 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Cute Sleep-Time Memory Game With Sleeping Bags & PJs

Included in this set are 18 mini beige “sleeping bags”, 18 foldable cardboard “blankets”/ “mattresses with pillows”, 18 characters in blue nightcaps (9 pairs dressed in matching pyjamas). Instead of the usual flipping over of cards, in this “Good Night” version, we take a “furtive” peek under the sleeping bags, identifying and searching for matching PJs. I can’t even describe how adorable and captivating the process is! The kids took turn sliding 2 characters out (and back into) their comfy slumber bags, trying to remember and visually recognise the locations, faces of the characters, and the nightwear designs. We love the creativity, the lovely sleep-time theme, and the intense focus required to win this game! 

(2) More Then One Way To Play 

There are more than 1 way to play. The set also includes 12 house-shaped cards - the goal is to find all the members under the same “rooftop” as shown in the challenge cards (2 to 3 characters per card). We can also do “search the monster under the bed” - a player hides two monster cards under 2 selected beds; all other players to figure out where the monsters are hidden by asking series of “yes/ no” questions, such as “Is the monster hiding under the penguin’s bed?”. Love the versatility and great playability! 

(3) Adorable Artwork 

The artwork is adorable. We love the sweet delightful patterns of the PJs - cute fluffy white clouds with blue background, stripy green, gelato in cones and icy poles, crescent moons and stars, mini hearts, and more! Each of the “blankie” has its own unique design: from green leaves, strawberries, sailing boats, to planets in solar system! 

(4) Sustainably Sourced Materials 

The components are made from sustainably sourced paper and recycled cardboard. Londji games are designed and manufactured in Spain. We love that Londji is a brand that put sustainability and circular economy in its foremind! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://antipoda.co/products/londji-3-in-1-game-good-night?_pos=1&_sid=cbee339f3&_ss=r (Australia) 

Check out my reviews on other Londji games: 

• Cluck, Cluck! The Fox! - Pocket Game, By Londji  
• Climb The Mountain, By Londji 
• Win Win Winter, By Londji 
• Postman Observation, By Londji 
• "Where Is The Cheese?" Pocket Version, By Londji 
• Save The Cat, By Londji 

Enjoy the video! 

GiiKER Tic-Tac-Toe Bolt, By GiiKER - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Innovative version of a classic game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Anyone - kids or grown-up. There are 3 games in this set! 

It’s hard to beat a classic, unless, you do it like GiiKER . Each GiiKER products that I have seen so far makes my heart sings. It’s a true master in turning the conventional into something incredible. Check out the ultimate GiiKER Tic-Tac-Toe Bolt - a three-in-one game changer (like, literally). 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) Tic-Tac-Toe With A Fun & Innovative Twist 

The classic Tic-Tac-Toe is probably the most frustrating game in the world (oh that endless, boring draws!). But GiiKER changes my perception of this game forever! Similar rules as traditional Tic Tac Toe - each player put either a X or O on a section within the 3x3 grid each turn. But here comes the twist: When a player does the 4th move, the first mark will disappear! In other words: no one is ever safe in this game, and you can play it “infinitely” until someone makes a mistake or lost track of the 3-marks rule (you can’t put the 4th mark on the same spot where the 1st mark is - even if you know the 1st mark would disappear right after the 4th mark is placed!). This is hands down the most intense Tic Tac Toe I had ever seen! Play “head-to-head” with a friend or choose the AI mode to battle the robot! 

(2) Memory Flash With 9 Difficulty Levels 

The surprise doesn’t stop here! The console also includes Memory Flash game with 9 difficulty levels! On each round, the device lights-up 2 or more sections in a random order (with audio-tone). The player must reproduce the light sequence by tapping on the screen. The challenge becomes progressively longer and more complex. The game ended when a player makes a mistake. This is a great additional game to train-up concentration and memory in a fun way! 

(3) Cover-Up Tic-Tac-Toe - A Tabletop Game 

The set also includes all the physical components for “Cover-Up Tic-Tac-Toe” - a perfect addition for any fans of tabletop games. Each piece comes in 3 sizes. Like a nesting doll, player can “cover-up” an opponent’s piece using a larger game piece, or move your piece to another spot (yes! you are allowed to “change your mind” in this version!). 

(4) Compact & Travel Easy Design 

I LOVE how compact and travel-easy the product is! The console is light-weight and removable from the bottom storage compartment for the “Cover Up Tic-Tac-Toe” game. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://giiker.com/en-au/products/tic-tac-toe-bolt (use code "toyreview20" for 20% off) 

Check out more reviews on GiiKER products: 

• Smart Sudoku, By GiiKER
• Smart Four, By GiiKER
• Super Blocks, By GiiKER 
• Super Slide, By GiiKER 

Enjoy the video! 

Mathcubes -Angles, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Mathematics teaching resources 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

  

Recommended age:   6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Teachers/ parents looking for innovative mathematics teaching aids / resources 

Having grown up studying mathematics in a boring and conventional structured classroom environment, I get excited whenever I discovered new innovative educational resources that make learning ENJOYABLE and FUN for kids. Junior Learning has a range of interactive and clever products - today, I would love to share about this brand new “Mathcubes -Angles”. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Unique Cubes With Hinges - Learn ANGLES In A Creative Way! 

I think “Angle” is a tricky concept for young kids - it’s hard to explain using just words. Angle is an integral element to visualise and analyse geometric shapes, and to define precise direction and movement. I never thought it’s possible to teach angles using math cubes, but Junior Learning creatively transformed this ordinary teaching tool into flexible, moveable, connectable cubes with hinges. The set includes 10 uniquely designed cubes with hinge, and 30 purple multicubes. They are tactile, fun to play with, demonstrate the changes in “angle” in a visible way (simply adjust the hinge connecting 2 rows of cubes). Apart from helping kids to visualise a seemingly abstract concept, these versatile cubes with hinges is also a super cool building toy with never-seen-before construction possibilities! 

(2) Double-Sided Geoboard & Other Components 

Of course, there are more! The set also includes a double-sided Geoboard with tiny pegs (one side arranged in 7x7 grid, and the reverse side arranged in circular shape), 20 blue and red rubber bands of 2 different sizes, and a protractor. We made circle with them, arranged the rubber bands as guided by the activity cards to explore various types of angles, and measured them using the included semicircular protractor. 

(3) 15 Double-Sided Cards With 30 Challenging Activities 

We love the 15 double-sided activity cards - combining 30 progressively challenging activities along with visual guides and step-by-step instructions. We formed reflex angle and full rotation angle using the rubber bands, we learned about right angles and acute angles, we made isosceles triangle and hexagon with the smart cubes, and we measured the interior angles of a quadrilateral and an equilateral triangle. The activities are engaging, and cover a range of interesting facts and ideas! We’re loving it! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://juniorlearning.com.au/collections/measurement/products/mathcubes-angles

Check out more reviews on Junior Learning mathematics resources: 

• Food Fractions, By Junior Learning 
• Time Table Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 
• Multiplication Dominoes, By Junior Learning 
• 100s Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 

Enjoy the video! 

ROVE, By Button Shy / Even Toys And Games - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Wallet game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:   8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Strategy gamers 

ROVE is probably the toughest Button Shy game I’ve tested so far. This is a game that will sure fascinate strategy gamers that love something challenging. Thank you Even Toys And Games for providing this! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Solo Game For Strategy Thinkers 

ROVE is a solo game for thinkers! The game starts with 6 module cards laid out in a 2×3 grid. The rest of the cards serve dual purposes as movement and pattern cards. First, reveal a pattern card (which features one specific module icon and several general locations around it where any modules can be placed). Now, move the 6 modules into position to match the pattern. Each module has specific way it moves. You also need to play 1 or more movement cards (5 cards in your hand to choose from) that will give you between 1 to 5 movement points each to move your modules. Each card has 2 numbers: if your modules match the pattern on the movement card, you can earn the higher movement points. The BEST thing? Each module also has a 1-time special power that is super helpful! Once you completed a pattern, discard all used movement cards, and draw another pattern card along with an additional movement card. You win when you’ve completed 7 patterns before movement cards run out. 

(2) One-Time Use Special Abilities 

I LOVE the strategy element! You need to tackle difficult module (such as “Coil” card that can only move when leap over another). Special abilities are super useful, but each can only be used once per game, so - spend wisely! You can swap 2 modules, move any module 1 space, place the crappy Coil in any valid location, and more! 

(3) Expansion Sets Included 

This version from @eventoysandgames also includes expansion sets - in “Fascinating Flora”, you get 6 Movement Cards that refresh spent Module abilities. Fancy something more difficult? Use “Icy” pack to freeze your modules, “Alien” that makes all modules copy a specific Module’s movement, and “Cosmic” with anti-pattern rule. There is also a “Crawler” pack with modules that crawl around other Modules. 

(4) Cool Artwork 

I love the quirky artwork, and how the completed Mission Cards form a cool panoramic image. Each movement card also has handy marks on edges to help us track the movement points. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.aussiehobbies.com.au/products/rove-card-game

https://shop.goodgames.com.au/products/rove?variant=43360285393054

https://morethanmeeples.com.au/product/rove-card-game/

https://realtoys.com.au/products/rove

https://www.unclepetestoys.com.au/rove-card-game/

https://www.m-g.com.au/product/rove/

https://www.gamesworldbrisbane.com.au/rove

https://www.presentsofmind.com.au/game/rove/

https://vaultgames.com.au/products/rove

Check out my other reviews on Button Shy games: 

• Food Chain Island, By Button Shy / Even Toys And Games 
• Circle The Wagons, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games
• Skulls of Sedlec, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games 
• Sprawlopolis, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games

Enjoy the video! 

WordXchange, By Prodijeux - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Board game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

  

Recommended age:   10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Board-gamers who enjoy Scrabble / word games. 

Are you a quick-witted word game enthusiast looking for next-level challenge to unleash your inner competitiveness? Then - “WordXchange” by Prodijeux is THE GAME for YOU (thank you Divisible by Zero for another incredible game!) 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Intense Word Game - Stealing Is Allowed! 

At a quick glance, you might think this is just another “scrabble-variant”; Whilst there are some similarities (such as the letter tiles in drawstring bag set-up), I find WordXchange a tougher game - more “cut-throat”, more intense, more unpredictable. The set contains 126 letter tiles (125 letters and 1 joker). The game starts with 5 randomly drawn letter tiles on central board. On each turn, player adds a new tile to the pool, and tries to make words using the tiles before the one-minute timer is up. The catch: stealing is a legitimate move in this new twist of anagram game! For example, if your opponent made a word “OAT, you can steal the word, add a letter “C, reshuffles the tiles and turns it into another word (eg “COAT” or “TACO”). All words must have at least 3-letters long, and we can’t steal a noun simply by adding a “S” and turns it into a plural form. The winner is the first to make and line up 6 words.

(2) Cool & Gorgeous Components! 

I love the mousepad size central board that doesn’t take up much table space. Formed words are displayed on white easels (14 included), facing the central board. It’s like a battle between gladiators, standing guard around an arena, waiting to crush your rivals whilst fighting for the last word! I love the transparent blue tiles. I also like that the letter distribution is printed on the central board for easy reference. 

(3) Joker Tile For Strategy

The joker tile elevates the strategy element of the game! Like Scrabble, it can represent any letter. However, in WordXchange, you can use it to “steal” a word by changing the value of the joker + adding a tile + re-arranging your opponent’s word. We can also replace the joker tile with a letter from the board, and use that joker tile to make a new word. 

(4) Elegant Velvety Black Drawstring Bag 

The drawstring bag is elegantly-done in velvety black. A timer is included, and the 12-page game rules include game strategies to truly master the game! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.wombatstoyshop.com.au/word-x-change.html (Australia) 

https://www.madaboutscience.com.au/shop/word-xchange-junior.html (Australia) 

Enjoy the video!