Cow Pop, By Tranquil Learning Collective - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Crotchet sensory toy 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids who love plush toys/ cute animals/ crotchet sensory toys 

I love toys that spark a bit of imaginative joy—those soft, cuddly companions that offer comfort and sweetness. This adorable Cow Pop, kindly provided by Tranquil Learning Collective , is a heartwarming amigurumi creation that truly captures the heart and brings a smile.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Adorable Cow Toy With Charming Details

Cow Pop is packed with charming details—from the rounded pink nose and adorable ears peeking out on either side, to the tiny white “horns” up top and shiny beady eyes full of personality. Its legs are accented with white patches, and when you turn it around, there’s even a delightfully bushy little tail. This fun, crocheted amigurumi creation invites imaginative play and delivers a special kind of joy that’s hard to put into words.

(2) Plush, Squishy, Huggable - Softest Crocheted Toy Ever

This is easily one of the softest crocheted toys I’ve ever touched—plush, squishy, and irresistibly huggable. Its gentle texture naturally encourages focus and calm, offering a soothing tactile experience that’s both relaxing and engaging. The unique crochet weave adds a layer of sensory delight, making it perfect for restless hands or anyone seeking a bit of comfort. That’s the magic of amigurumi—Cow Pop’s soft, snuggly design makes it an ideal companion for hugging and cuddling, especially during anxious moments. It’s not just a toy; it’s a comforting presence that supports imaginative play and emotional growth.

(3) Handmade Product - Each One Is Unique

What makes Cow Pop even more special is that it’s handmade—each one is unique, just like the child who treasures it. That one-of-a-kind quality helps build a deeper emotional bond. I also love that it’s thoughtfully designed with little hands in mind. Lightweight and perfectly sized, it’s easy for kids to grasp, hold, and carry wherever they go—whether it’s to the park, on a car ride, or snuggled up at bedtime. Having an easy-to-carry companion like this brings a comforting sense of familiarity and security to young children.

(4) Eco-Friendly Fidget Toy - Kind To The Planet!

Cow Pop isn’t just adorable—it’s also an eco-friendly, non-plastic fidget toy that’s as kind to the planet as it is to its owner. Made from soft, thick yarn, it’s completely safe for kids to enjoy. It’s a toy you can truly feel good about.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Contact: Tranquil Learning Collective

Enjoy the video: 

Dragomino, By Blue Orange- REVIEW

Nature / Type:            Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:    5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Young kids who enjoy matching / dominoes-type games + cute dragons

Dragomino by Blue Orange is a cute, kid-friendly twist on the award-winning Kingdomino. It keeps all the fun of the original, with rules simplified just right for little gamers. We first tried it four years ago—and we love it even more now! Thank you VR Distribution for providing a copy. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Match Landscapes + "Crack Open" A Dragon Egg

Dragomino is easy to learn—even preschoolers can pick it up in minutes! Each turn, you pick a tile to grow your island and try to match the landscapes. Match them right, and you get to crack open a dragon egg! Will it be an adorable baby dragon or just an empty shell? The player who finds the most baby dragons wins! And if you find a shell, you get the Mommy Dragon token, which lets you go first next round—and scores you a bonus point at the end! No tricky math here—just count your dragons (plus one if you’ve got Mommy Dragon) to see who wins!

(2) Sneaky Strategy & Maths Lessons - Hiding In The Fun

There’s sneaky strategy hiding in all the fun! Kids quickly start noticing patterns—like how some landscapes seem to hatch more baby dragons than others. Every terrain has exactly 7 baby dragons, but the number of egg tokens (which include both dragons and empty shells) changes based on how common that terrain is on the dominoes. So terrains like forests have more egg tokens overall, but your chances of finding a dragon is lower. Rarer terrains, like the red volcanoes, have fewer total eggs, so the odds of scoring a dragon are higher! It’s a perfect little lesson in probability, cleverly disguised as dragon hunting. Kids soon started making strategic decisions, and even tracking which dragons have already been found to help decide what to pick next.

(3) Delightful Artwork & Sturdy Quality Tiles

The artwork and quality are delightful! The tiles are made of sturdy, thick cardboard, and oh those baby dragons! - each have their own unique poses, expressions, and little personalities. It’s the kind of whimsical detail that sparks imagination and keeps everyone giggling.

(4) Great Packaging With Custom Slots For Each Components

The packaging is top-notch! Everything has its own perfect place—tiles, eggs, tokens—all neatly stored in custom slots designed for each piece. Even the different types of egg tokens have their own special compartments, which makes packing up just so satisfying! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.bigw.com.au/product/blue-orange-games-dragomino-kids-children-interactive-fun-play-tile-game-5y-/p/9900557297 (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Sunny Side Up, By Danspil - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Young kids / parents looking for first educational game for their younger kids 

Some games sneak up on you—you don’t expect much at first, but the moment you start playing, you’re completely hooked! Sunny Side Up by Danspil may be made for ages 3 and up, but this game is surprisingly engaging, and we couldn’t stop laughing while playing! Huge thanks to Divisible by Zero for this delightful surprise!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) An Adorable Game - Roll The Die, Match Egg Cup, Fry An Egg!

Sunny Side Up is a simple yet adorable game for 2 to 4 players, designed for small kids - but trust me, even grown-ups won’t want to stop playing! The goal? Be the first to “fry” all your eggs and clear your basket. Roll the die, place eggs in the matching egg cups (unless someone else got there first—uh-oh, back to your basket it goes!), and if you’re lucky enough to roll a 6, you get to fry an egg with a super satisfying thump! Sounds easy, right? It is! But somehow, this game is ridiculously addictive—I can’t figure out why, and honestly, I don’t care. It’s just that fun!

(2) Nice Touch of Strategy

Think this is just a mindless roll-and-go game? Think again! Sunny Side Up sneaks in a touch of strategy. If you successfully place an egg in an empty cup or fry one in the pan, you get to roll again (as an option) —but here’s the catch. The more eggs already sitting in the cups, the riskier it gets! One unlucky roll could send extra eggs straight back to your basket. But if the board is looking empty? Well, maybe it’s worth taking a gamble! A little risk, a little reward!

(3) Two Dice - Classic Pips & Actual Numbers

The set comes with two dice—one with classic pips and one with actual numbers (1 to 6)—making it a perfect way for little ones to practice counting, matching, and recognizing numerals. 

(4) Bright, Colourful, Brilliantly Thought-Out (Genius Fry-An-Egg Hole!)

I’m in love with the game’s design—bright, colorful, and brilliantly thought out! Each basket and cup has a little concave space to keep the eggs from rolling away (no messy chaos here!). The eggs themselves look just like the real thing, with one rounded end and one pointed end. And let’s talk about the best part—the genius fry-an-egg hole in the pan! Dropping an egg in and hearing that satisfying plonk never gets old. And those exasperated hens laying comically oversized eggs shown on the box cover —absolutely adorable!

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/games/844-sunny-side-up.html (Australia) 

Dragonfly Toys (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

MAPOMINOES - Asia & Australia, by WildCard Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:            Board game / Card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Geography enthusiast / gamers with a love for travel 

MAPOMINOES is an innovative game that offers a unique way to explore the world from the comfort of home. Whether you’re a geography enthusiast or someone with a love for travel, this portable game will captivate your imagination. Check out MAPOMINOES - Asia & Australia by WildCard Games (kindly provided by Divisible by Zero) 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) A "Dominoes" Game - Connect Country Cards & Transit Cards

The game includes 51 country cards and 14 transit cards. Players are dealt country cards (minus one starting card) and two transit cards, and must place countries adjacent to ones they border in real life. Each country is represented by a card, and the card lists the countries that border it. For example, Laos’ card lists its bordering countries, such as Cambodia and Thailand, which can be placed next to it. If you get stuck, transit cards can represent countries or bodies of water, like oceans. For instance, you can use a transit card to link Australia to the Indian Ocean. The game plays like dominoes, where you connect countries to build a continental map. No prior geography knowledge is needed—everything you need is on the cards!

(2) Strategy! Strategy! Strategy!

This is a game of strategy! Block opponents by holding onto “high-value” cards like China (country with the most countries at borders), or try to get rid of cards with few borders (eg Brunei or Qatar). Use transit cards wisely to connect your remaining cards, and aim for ‘double connections’ (play a card that connects two or more cards on table) to earn extra turns. With limited space on the table, planning around the edges gives a strategic advantage. Every game is unique due to the different border connections, ensuring replayability. Plus, there’s option of sand-timer to add an extra level of urgency!

(3) Learn Country's Name / Flag / Capital / Population & More!

Each card features the country’s name, flag, capital, area, population, a map, and its neighboring countries. The cards are visually clear and easy to read. Plus, the rules include a reference map, helping you see the bigger picture and learn as you play.

(4) Expandable With Other Continental Versions

Mapominoes can expand to include other continental versions, letting you connect the whole world. The consistent art style ensures compatibility between versions.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.mindgamesgeelong.com.au/purchase-games-online/games/travel/display/8680-mapominoes-asia-and-australia (Australia) 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/489-mapominoes-asia-australasia.html (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Everdell, By Starling Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids and adults who enjoy strategy / worker placement games 

Everdell is a captivating worker placement game from Starling Games , and after testing the junior version, My Lil’ Everdell, we couldn’t wait to check out this more intricate original. The experience? Absolutely thrilling! A massive thank you to Let's Play Games for sharing this game with us!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Collect Resources + Play Cards To Win Victory Points

In Everdell, players build a vibrant village by gathering resources and playing cards over four seasons. Starting with two workers, you’ll use them to collect resources or play cards from your hand or the central board. Each card adds new abilities or victory points. The challenge lies in strategically managing your limited workers, competing for the best resource spots, and deciding when to transition to the next season. Whether it’s chasing event cards, weighing short-term / long-term gains, or maximizing every resource, the tactical decisions make every turn thrilling. At the end of the game, tally up your points from your tableau, events, and coins—may the best village win!

(2) Endless Replayability With Ever-Changing Setup

Everdell offers endless replayability with its ever-changing setup. Each game feels fresh thanks to a few key variables: a random set of Forest cards that shifts resource strategies, Special Event cards that introduce unique challenges based on specific criteria, and a deck of 128 Critter and Construction cards, each with unique powers. The real excitement comes from pairing Construction cards with Critters, which lets you play certain cards for free, adding an element of luck and tension to each decision.

(3) Visually Stunning Tabletop Set-Up

The 3D, vertically set-up tree is a visual masterpiece. While some online reviews mention its non-functional aspects, for our family, it truly brings the game to life, adding a magical, storybook dimension to the experience. I also love the stunning foldable game board—its design perfectly captures the enchanting world of Everdell, making every playthrough feel like stepping into a fairytale.

(4) Unique Resources & Whimsical Artwork

The resources—twigs, resin, pebbles, and berries—are distinct in shape, size, and material, adding a tactile richness to the game. The artwork captures the whimsical world of anthropomorphic creatures building a city.

P/S: Resource crates are not included in this set

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/my-lil-everdell-standard-edition-board-game

https://www.hobbyco.com.au/products/everdell-2

Enjoy the video! 

Fantasy Series - Mermaid, By Let’s Play Games - REVIEW

 Nature / Type:             Wooden puzzle 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     14 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Puzzle lovers - especially those who love Mermaid-themed with unique shapes 

Get ready for an enchanting adventure under the sea with the stunning Mermaid puzzle from the all-new Fantasy Series from Let's Play Games ! This isn’t just any puzzle—it’s a breathtaking, brain-bending challenge for the brave-hearted. So, if you’re a fan of all things magical and mysterious, you’ll absolutely want to check this one out! 

Why I love ❤️ this puzzle: 

(1) 200 Pieces Mermaid Puzzle

This Mermaid puzzle comes with 200 pieces, and it’s no walk in the park! Unlike your typical puzzle with a nice, neat border, this one embraces the wild, swirling beauty of the sea. We started off by sorting the pieces based on their beautiful color palette: the mermaid’s fiery red hair, the soft purples and blues of her scales, and the vibrant coral reefs and bright green kelps. But the real magic happens in the ocean—the deep, mysterious blues that seem to go on forever. It’s like trying to solve the ocean’s secret, one piece at a time. And trust me, when you finally find where that perfect piece fits... it’s pure enchantment. 

(2) Uniquely-Shaped Pieces With Surprises Await!

These aren’t your ordinary puzzle pieces! Each one is uniquely shaped, twisting and turning like little treasures from the deep. Forget the boring standard shapes—you’ll need all your spatial skills and a pinch of intuition to make it work. And as you put it all together, surprise after surprise awaits: a starfish, a jellyfish, a playful seahorse, a cheeky dolphin, a mysterious anglerfish, a scallop shell, an unmistakable pufferfish, wavy kelp, a worm snail shell, and even a treasure chest hidden within the design! Each little discovery makes the experience feel like an underwater treasure hunt, filled with delightful details that make every moment of assembly a joy.

(3) High-Quality, Laser-Cut Wood

Crafted from high-quality, laser-cut wood, this puzzle feels as premium as it looks. The colors pop, the pieces slide together smoothly, and the artwork is absolutely mesmerizing. It all comes neatly packaged in a charming wooden box—convenient for storage and a lovely keepsake. This is a puzzle made to last and to enchant. If you’re ready for a challenge that will transport you into a world of mystery, this puzzle is the one to try! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where can I buy this: 

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

https://www.gameology.com.au/products/lpg-puzzles-wooden-fantasy-puzzle-mermaid

Check out other puzzles from Let's Play Games here: 

• Oceanic Animals Series 1 - Kangaroo, By Let's Play Games 
• Oceanic Animals Series 1 - Kookaburra, By Let's Play Games

Enjoy the video! 

Brilliant Bugs – Playing Cards, By Kaddo - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game  

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:     6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Bug + card game lovers 

“Brilliant Bugs – Playing Cards” by Kaddo (an imprint of Quarto) is a must-have for every bug enthusiast! This deck showcases extraordinary insects from around the globe, transforming a card game into a fascinating entomological adventure. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Battle The Bugs - In Size/ Lifespan/ Number Of Eggs

The rules are simple—but with a brilliant bug-themed twist! Inside the gift box, you’ll find 54 beautifully illustrated cards, each featuring a fascinating insect. Battle it out in 3 exciting categories: size, lifespan, and number of eggs. The card with the highest stat wins the round! To play, deal the cards evenly among players and keep them in a face-down pile. Each player flips over their top card, and the starting player picks a category—say, size. Everyone reads out their bug’s size, and the player with the highest value takes all the top cards and adds them to their pile. Keep playing until one bug lover conquers the deck!

(2) Learn Fun Bug Facts As You Play

Learn fun and surprising bug facts as you play—just watch out for the “strongest” and “weakest”! Drawing a “22-spot ladybird” might be your downfall, with its tiny 3mm size, but score big if you get the mighty “Hercules moth” at a whopping 360mm! Some bugs are definite duds in certain categories—like the “bumblebee (worker)” or “garden ant (worker),” both with zero fertilised eggs. But land a “driver ant (queen)” and you’ve hit the jackpot: she lays an incredible 20 million eggs and lives up to 3,650 days! The game also comes with a handy booklet full of bug trivia, game rules, and tips for spotting these creatures in the wild.

(3) Detailed Illustrations - Highlighting Each Bug's Unique Anatomy

The card design is a real standout. Each one features both the common name and the scientific name. I love the clean white background and the detailed illustrations that highlight each bug’s unique anatomy. We love the blue morpho butterfly (Morpho peleides) and its vibrant, iridescent blue wings edged with black, and the green milkweed locust (Phymateus viridipes) with striking red and blue hindwing. 

(4) Classic Deck With Clever Packaging

The cards double as a classic deck, complete with numbers and the four traditional suits. The packaging is cleverly designed with a push-out tray that feels like a mini matchbox.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.booktopia.com.au/brilliant-bugs-kelsey-oseid/book/9781836004103.html

Check out more reviews of Kaddo's products here: 

• Little People, BIG DREAMS Double-Sided Puzzle
• The Sleeping Beauty Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra)
• Dream Big Bingo!
• Match The Mermaids
• The Poetry Play Kit
• Little People, Big Dreams - Amazing Women: A Memory Game 
• Little People, Big Dreams: Who Am I
• Swan Lake Musical Puzzle 
• Find The Fairies 
• Cat Family Christmas - Lift The Flap Puzzle 
• The Nutcracker Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra)

Enjoy the video! 

Unlock! Kids - Irish Folklore Trilogy, By Space Cow - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Escape room for kids  

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:     6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids and adults who enjoy puzzles and solving mysteries 

“Unlock! Kids - Irish Folklore Trilogy” from Space Cow is a magical game inspired by the enchanting world of escape rooms. Players embark on a journey through Irish tales, unlocking mysteries in a tabletop experience that feels like stepping into a realm of ancient secrets! Thank you VR Distribution for providing a copy.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Escape Room For Young Kids With No Reading Required

There aren’t many escape room games designed for younger kids - this set feels like a breath of fresh air. It includes 212 beautifully illustrated cards, 58 cardboard tokens, and special components. It unfolds through a numbered card system, where players use their materials to uncover hidden clues and symbols. What makes it so special is that it’s completely language-independent – no reading required! All you need is a sharp eye to match symbols and follow the whimsical pictures. The artwork itself is a visual treasure hunt, making it easy for kids (and adults!) to dive right in without reading skills! 

(2) Unique Items & Special "Choice" Cards

I adore the unique items that are incorporated into the puzzles. You’ll sometimes discover translucent cards that, when layered on top of an art card, reveal new symbols to decipher. You may also come across special “choice” cards where you have to select between two items—choose wisely, or face a tricky trap! Another delightful feature is combining cards to create larger pictures, each revealing new symbols that unlock further mysteries.

(3) Mini Tutorial Set - Guiding Players Through Unlocking Process

Unlock! Kids has a mini tutorial set, introducing 11 cards and 2 items to gently guide players through the unlocking process. While designed for young kids, the puzzles aren’t a walk in the park! My 8-year-old was able to crack some of the more cryptic puzzles, relying on the hint cheat sheet for nudges along the way. The challenge intensifies as the game progresses, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.

(4) Immerses Players In 3 Irish Tales

What truly sets this game apart is how it immerses players in 3 enchanting Irish tales, each inspired by the breathtaking animated films of Tomm Moore: The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, and Wolfwalkers. Players embark on adventures with a young monk, a mystical selkie, and a spirited wolf-girl, navigating through 6 games spread across the stories. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworldsa.com.au/products/unlock-kids-irish-folklore-trilogy

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/unlock-kids-irish-mythology-trilogy-card-game

Enjoy the video! 

Let’s Learn Action Words 让我们学习动词, By Mandarin Prodigies - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Mandarin book for bilingual kids 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Parents looking for engaging mandarin learning materials designed for bilingual kids

I’m thrilled to introduce Let’s Learn Action Words 让我们学习动词— a brilliantly crafted bilingual book by Mandarin Prodigies that’s a game-changer for young learners! This book stands out for its fun and engaging approach to Mandarin, making exciting for kids to master essential action words (动词). 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) 30 Essential Action Words 

This board book brings to life 30 essential action words that children encounter in their everyday routines. From 洗 (wash/clean) and 刷 (brush) to 穿 (wear/put on) and 画 (paint/draw), each word is carefully chosen to resonate with young learners. The book presents each action in Chinese, Pinyin, and English. With bold, easy-to-read characters and helpful translations, young readers will feel confident as they explore new vocabulary and its real-life applications!

(2) With Simple Sentences + Vibrant Illustrations

The book brings the action words to life with simple, impactful sentences and vibrant illustrations. Each sentence is thoughtfully presented in Mandarin, complete with Pinyin and English translation, while colorful images capture the essence of the words. Take, for instance, 妈妈和我一起做饼干 — “Mom and I make cookies together” — which is accompanied by a heartwarming illustration of a mother and daughter joyfully baking, rolling pins and cookie cutters in hand. As an added bonus, each page showcases two additional examples of the action word used in different contexts — like 玩游戏 (play games) and 玩积木 (play with blocks) — each with Pinyin, translation, and smaller, playful illustrations to deepen understanding.

(3) Sturdy and High Quality Board Book

The board book is crafted from sturdy, high-quality material, designed to withstand the wear and tear. Its compact, travel-friendly size makes it the ideal companion for learning on the go, allowing children to discover new vocabulary and concepts wherever their curiosity takes them.

(4) Exceptional Collection Of Bilingual Resources

Mandarin Prodigies provides an exceptional collection of bilingual learning resources, featuring board books in both Simplified and Traditional Chinese. From engaging busy books and interactive activity workbooks to helpful writing tools, there’s something for every young learner. Be sure to explore their full range of educational materials!

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.mandarinprodigies.com/collections/kristins-bilingual-books/products/lets-learn-action-words

Enjoy the video! 

Iconic Doll Accessories Kit, By Make Me Iconic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Pretend play toys

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids who love pretend play 

Iconic Doll Accessories Kit from Make Me Iconic stole my heart instantly! Watching the little ones engaged in pretend play with this set is like witnessing pure magic - It’s so heartwarming to see them nurture, care, and recreate their world with creativity.

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 11 Charming Pieces For Your Baby Doll

This set includes everything a baby doll (or cuddly plush toy) could ever need, allowing your little one to fully immerse themselves in imaginative pretend play. Whether they’re pretending to be a loving parent or taking their toys on a grand escapade, this set is a real hit! Packed with 11 charming pieces, the kit includes 2 different-sized bottles (because you never know which one your baby will be in the mood for, right?), a sippy cup with adorable handles (perfect for those little hands taking their first sips of independence), a minimalist toy bowl, spoon, fork, plate with compartments (the perfect solution for those picky eaters who don’t want their foods to touch each other — you know if you know!), a comb, a hairbrush, a teething toy, and a clip-on pacifier. Every piece is crafted to inspire hours of imaginative fun, giving little ones the chance to step into their grown-up roles while bonding through delightful pretend play!

(2) Attention To Detail & Playful Design

I love the thoughtful attention to detail in the accessories, elevating the play experience to a whole new level. The hairbrush, with its soft ticklish bristles, feels just like the real thing, designed to gently glide through dolly’s hair for an authentic styling experience. But my personal favourite has to be the teether toy. Not only it’s visually appealing with its playful design, it’s also incredibly satisfying to touch with moveable beads that mimic the calming feel of a fidget toy. It stirs up a wave of bittersweet nostalgia (remember teething babies and those inevitable gum aches?). 

(3) Sturdy Wooden Items & Compliance With Safety Standards

I love the sturdy wooden items, the authentic design, and the soft pastel color scheme, especially the mint baby bowl and soothing chewing beads. The toy meets international safety standards. The sturdy cardboard storage box with ribbon handles is also a great touch for easy carrying by little ones.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://makemeiconic.com/collections/all-products/products/iconic-toy-doll-accessories-kit

Check out my other reviews on Make Me Iconic toys: 

• Iconic Taco Kit, By Make Me Iconic
• The Iconic Toy Camp Fire, By Make Me Iconic
• Iconic Healthy Tummy Brekkie, By Make Me Iconic
• Australian Vehicles, By Make Me Iconic 
• Doll Nurturing Set, By Make Me Iconic
• Aussies Munchies, By Make Me Iconic 
• Natural Healer Kit, By Make Me Iconic

Enjoy the video! 

Monkey Palace, By Lego & Asmodee - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Lego lovers & anyone who enjoys strategy games with stunning set-up! 

Lego and Asmodee have teamed up to bring something groundbreaking to the table – Monkey Palace! This is a brilliant fusion of strategy, fun, and the iconic creativity of LEGO pieces. Seriously, how cool is this! Big thanks to VR Distribution for sending over a copy. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Collaborate To Build - With REAL LEGO Bricks!

Monkey Palace is a one-of-a-kind placement game where players collaborate to build, but with a competitive edge! The goal is to rack up the most banana points by constructing a staircase that earns Monkey Credits through monkey, trophy, and bonus cards. On your turn, you’ll build an ascending staircase using blocks, columns, and arches, topping it off with a decoration like bamboo leaves or a golden block. The more height you build (earn bonus points for columns with 5 or more blocks) and the more arches you use, the more credits you earn (which you can then spend on cards for additional building blocks -  both one-time and recurring). The set includes 80 arches, 80 1×1 bricks, 16 1×3 columns, 32 bamboo leaves in 2 colors, 16 1×1 round bricks, a monkey, butterfly, frog, 4 corner bricks, a baseplate, 84 cards, 4 player boards, and 2 double-sided ground maps. The player with the most banana points at the end of the game wins!

(2) Strategy, Strategy, Strategy

I’m in love with the strategic depth! There’s so much to consider: which cards to buy for the best mix of arches and blocks, whilst ensuring you earn enough banana points to win. Don’t forget the trophy cards for extra points and the mischievous critters that can disrupt your opponents—like the monkey that sits on top of a golden decoration block, the butterfly that hovers at the highest decoration block, and the frog that gives you a free column piece in exchange for -3 points.

(3) Replayability & Variety

I love the game’s replayability and variety. With four different game maps featuring unique layouts and ground types, each structure looks different every time. The shuffled cards each round provide new building pieces, keeping the gameplay dynamic and fresh. 

(4) Fun & Playful Style With Hint Of Humour

The game’s aesthetic is charming and playful, with LEGO’s signature humor and style shining through. The monkeys add a fun, goofy touch.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/lego-monkey-palace/

https://www.ebgames.com.au/product/toys-and-collectibles/308122-lego-monkey-palace-board-game

https://www.zingpopculture.com.au/product/card-board-games/308122-lego-monkey-palace-board-game

Enjoy the video! 

Iconic Taco Kit, By Make Me Iconic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Pretend play toys

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids who love pretend play + Taco!  

Everybody loves Taco Tuesday. This kit offers the ultimate way to create your very own Taqueria at home. With a perfect mix of customizable ingredients, the Iconic Taco Kit from Make Me Iconic offers endless possibilities for Taco lovers!

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 21 Pieces - Mix & Match Your Taco Ingredients!

I’m truly impressed by the wide variety of Taco ingredients. This kit comes with 21 pieces that make mix-and-match play incredibly fun! You’ll get two stand-up wooden Taco shells, along with all the essentials—beef strip, beef mince, fish slice, cheese, red onion, tomato salsa, lettuce, and parsley—plus two grilled prawns on a stick for that extra special touch. What stands out to me is how stress-free the DIY process is: the cleverly designed standing taco shells allow for easy assembly, while the thin, sliced ingredients fit perfectly inside the shells without falling apart. The best part? There’s no need for knives or forks—just pile on your favorite toppings and enjoy! This is a kit that sparks creativity and brings friends together for a fun taco fiesta!

(2) Sauces & Garnishes

No playset is complete without the sauces and garnishes that bring all the flavors to life! This kit includes a red-hot wooden chili for that extra kick, a lime wedge for a squeeze of zesty juice, a bottle of Taco chili sauce to spice things up, and a jar of sour cream complete with a spoon and lid for the finishing touch. Whether you decide to use the wooden taco set as part of your kitchen setup or create a fun play restaurant, this toy lets you explore and experiment with flavors, making every taco experience uniquely your own!

(3) Mix Of Materials - Adding Different Textures To Toy

I love the thoughtful mix of materials that add different textures to the toy. The sturdy wooden taco shells, sliced ingredients, jar, and bottle give it a solid, high-quality feel, while the felt lettuce leaf and parsley bunch add a soft, tactile touch that’s perfect for little hands. And if that’s not enough, the set even includes two paper bags, cheekily labeled with ‘Taco Me,’ giving it that authentic take-away shop vibe. 

(4) Quality & Compliance With Safety Standard

Made with non-toxic paints and complies with AU/EU/US safety standard, this toy combines quality with peace of mind.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://makemeiconic.com/collections/all-products/products/iconic-toy-taco

Check out my other reviews on Make Me Iconic toys: 

• The Iconic Toy Camp Fire, By Make Me Iconic
• Iconic Healthy Tummy Brekkie, By Make Me Iconic
• Australian Vehicles, By Make Me Iconic 
• Doll Nurturing Set, By Make Me Iconic
• Aussies Munchies, By Make Me Iconic 
• Natural Healer Kit, By Make Me Iconic

Enjoy the video! 

Deep River, By Laboludic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids/ adults who enjoy strategy games

French publisher Laboludic continues to impress with its knack for crafting unique themes, stunning artwork, and endless fun. Today, let’s talk about Deep River—a special thanks to Divisible by Zero for generously providing a copy!

why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) "Tug-Of-War" Strategy Game With A Bear

Deep River is a strategy game brimming with delightful depth. My kid calls it the ‘tug-of-war game with a bear.’ Guide your salmon or eel across the river while luring the Hungry Bear into your opponent’s territory to win! Start by randomly placing the river tiles, then take turns moving your fish by strategically choosing action tokens and applying river tile effects—all while the bear is tugged in two directions. Each time your fish reaches the opposite shore, the bear inches closer to your rival’s nest. The game ends when the bear reaches a nest or when two action tiles land in the salmon’s camp. A fast-paced, tactical 2-player experience, Deep River keeps you on the edge of your seat! 

(2) Fresh New Round Each Time With Reshuffled Tiles & Tokens

I love how each round feels fresh, thanks to the reshuffling of tiles and tokens! The random placement of river tiles changes the board and strategy, while action tiles - flipped each time they’re activated - add more layers to the game. River tiles have unique effects—some require two fish to activate, others let you flip a chosen action tile, move the bear, or give your fish extra movement. There’s also a special rule where you can ‘occupy’ your opponent’s fish token, taking control of it—just watch out for tiles that can reverse the position! Though the rules seem simple, the combinations quickly become mind-boggling. 

(3) Unique Artwork & Original Theme

Deep River features unique artwork that instantly grabs your attention. The salmon and eel theme is refreshingly original, and it fits perfectly with the tug-of-war mechanic. The concept of salmon and eels struggling to survive is thoughtfully executed and adds a compelling layer to the game.

(4) Wooden Bear & Quality Components

I love the beautifully crafted wooden bear figurine, which perfectly symbolizes the looming danger. Deep River comes in a compact box but packs high-quality components—the tokens and tiles are thick, durable, and built to last.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/games/841-deep-river.html

Check out more reviews on Laboludic games: 

• Kamakai, By Laboludic
• Lucky Jack, By Laboludic 
• Golden Creek, By Laboludic 
• Micronimo, By Laboludic 
• Spy Kid, By Laboludic 
• Kezao, By Laboludic 
• Coco Candy, By Laboludic

Enjoy the video!