60 Seconds Toy Review: Puzzle

Showing posts with label Puzzle. Show all posts

Friday, June 20, 2025

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:

Enjoy the video!

Thursday, June 12, 2025

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!

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Little People, BIG DREAMS Double-Sided Puzzle, By Kaddo - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Jigsaw puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 5 year-old ++

Who would love this: Kids and adults that enjoy quick & simple jigsaw puzzles

Discover the world of extraordinary individuals with the “Little People, BIG DREAMS Double-Sided Puzzle” from Kaddo, an imprint from Quarto. This puzzle brings to life two powerful images inspired by the bestselling book series by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vergara - perfect way to spark curiosity about the world around our little people!

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) 100-Piece, Double-Sided Puzzle

This 100-piece, double-sided puzzle offers double the fun with two scenes in one! On one side, set against a purple background, you’ll see history’s favorite figures as children, while the yellow side shows them as adults, living their dreams and reaching their full potential. It’s a perfect mix of puzzling and edutainment!

(2) Featuring Iconic Moments of Historical Figures In Action

I love how the illustrations capture the distinctive features and iconic moments of these historical figures in action. For example, Bruce Lee is mid-flying kick; Anna Pavlova is elegantly performing The Dying Swan in her classic white tutu; Gloria Steinem, the voice of feminism, is seated with the famous ‘We Shall Overcome’ sign; Mahatma Gandhi is depicted with his signature round glasses, surrounded by white doves symbolizing peace.

(3) 28-Page Booklet - Brief Introduction of 32 Figures

The puzzle also comes with a 28-page booklet that not only shows the completed images of both sides but also offers a brief introduction to each of the 32 figures. As you piece the puzzle together, you’ll read about remarkable individuals like Florence Nightingale, who transformed a filthy hospital and saved countless lives during a devastating war; Helen Keller, who overcame the challenges of being both deaf and blind to become a powerful advocate for the rights of disabled people; and Marie Curie, whose groundbreaking scientific discoveries earned her two Nobel Prizes and continue to help those suffering from illness today. No dream is too big when you start with courage and determination!

(4) Sturdy Cardboard Box & Green Paper Bag To Keep Things Organized

The puzzle comes with a green paper bag to keep all the pieces neatly organized, along with a sturdy cardboard box to store everything. The chunky pieces are perfect for little hands. Once completed, the puzzle measures 12 x 18 inches—a great size that fits comfortably on most table surfaces.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Booktopia (Australia)

Harry Hartog (Australia)

QBD Books (Australia)

Check out more reviews of Kaddo's products here:

Enjoy the video!

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Oceania Animals Series 1 - Kangaroo, By Let’s Play Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Wooden puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 14 year-old ++

Who would love this: Anyone who enjoys non-traditional, challenging & unique puzzles

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing the Kookaburra puzzle from Let's Play Games , and I was delighted by the fresh twist it brings to traditional puzzle designs. Today, I’m excited to share about the Kangaroo puzzle - a charming, wildlife-inspired puzzle from the Oceania Animals Series 1.

Why I love ❤️ this puzzle:

(1) 200 Pieces Puzzle With Natural-Inspired Colours

This Kangaroo puzzle consists of 200 pieces. Unlike traditional jigsaw puzzles with clear borders, this one lacks the traditional straight frame, but the thick black outlines on some pieces provide a helpful hint for the kangaroo’s shape. The real challenge lies in sorting the pieces by the subtle and distinct patterns. The color palette is a rich tones of yellow, brown, and nature-inspired greens. Each piece features unique patterns drawn from nature and leaf prints —swirls, curvy lines, circular shapes, and symmetrical designs—that guide the placement of pieces within the kangaroo’s divided sections. I love how the puzzle beautifully integrates intricate, nature-inspired motifs, adding depth and complexity to the overall design.

(2) Irregular & Unique Shapes - Spot The Wildlife Surprises!

Each puzzle pieces is uniquely crafted, with twisting, irregular shapes that deviate from the standard tabs and blanks of mass-produced puzzles. The edges, random and uneven, add a layer of challenge, requiring us to rely on our spatial skills and intuition to piece everything together. As we progressed, we were treated to a series of delightful wildlife surprises (and not just Australian creatures!). You’ll spot, amongst others, a giraffe, spider, emu, lion, snail, koala, lizard, alligator, an Australian map, and even a tiny kangaroo—all cleverly integrated into the design. As we assembled the puzzle, we marveled at the hidden shapes and the thoughtfulness behind each piece, making the experience as much about discovery as it was about completion.

(3) High-Quality, Laser-Cut Wooden Pieces

This puzzle is crafted from high-quality, laser-cut wooden pieces. The vibrant colors and striking artwork make it visually captivating, while the pieces fit together smoothly, sliding effortlessly into place. Packaged in a compact wooden box, it offers both convenience and durability. We’s loving this!

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Lets-Play-Games-Australiana-Kangaroo/dp/B0BCZ6ML4Y

Enjoy the video!

Saturday, February 8, 2025

The Sleeping Beauty Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra), By Kaddo - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Musical puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 4 year-old ++

Who would love this: Kids that enjoy puzzles + music + beautiful fairy tales

I’m smitten with Kaddo, a line from the publisher of the beloved Little People, BIG DREAMS series (Quarto). Their games and puzzles are beautifully crafted, with a unique elegance that’s truly heartwarming. Today, let’s talk about “The Sleeping Beauty Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra)”!

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) Puzzle With Tchaikovsky's Music Clips

Like the Nutcracker and Swan Lake puzzles, The Sleeping Beauty from The Story Orchestra is a magical experience. Hidden within the puzzle are four music buttons, each playing a 10-second clip from Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet. From the eerie curse of the evil fairy to the famous waltz (Once Upon a Dream), and the perilous moment Aurora pricks her finger, the music is both dramatic and beautiful. As you complete the puzzle, the enchanting illustration of the prince awakening Princess Aurora comes to life, accompanied by the vivid sound of Tchaikovsky’s full orchestral score.

(2) 48 Puzzle Pieces Including Uniquely-Shaped Cutouts

This set includes 48 puzzle pieces: 4 uniquely shaped pieces with circle cutouts for the musical buttons, and 44 standard ribbon-cut pieces. The illustrations by Jessica Courtney-Tickle beautifully capture the essence of Sleeping Beauty. The puzzle frame offers a concise retelling of the story—from Princess Aurora’s birth and curse by the evil fairy Carabosse, to her fateful prick on her sixteenth birthday, and the lilac fairy’s role in breaking the curse.

(3) Poster - Learn About The Composer & The Music

The set includes a double-sided poster: one side features the full puzzle image, while the other offers details about the composer, a brief summary of Sleeping Beauty, and descriptions of the music clips. Flip it over to discover more about the story’s happy ending, along with a biography of Tchaikovsky and how his music brings the tale to life.

(4) Great Packaging & Components

I love the sturdy packaging - the box cover is stunning, featuring glittery details and golden holographic lettering that instantly catches the eye. Inside, there’s a thick blue cardboard insert, which helps keep the puzzle pieces neatly contained within the lid. Once the puzzle is assembled, the pieces fit securely onto the board, ensuring they stay in place during play or storage.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Dymocks (Australia)

Booktopia (Australia)

Check out more reviews of Kaddo's products here:

Enjoy the video!

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Oceania Animals Series 1 - Kookaburra, By Let’s Play Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Wooden jigsaw puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 14 year-old ++

Who would love this: Older kids/ adults who enjoy unique, challenging, non-traditional puzzles

Let's Play Games brings a fresh twist to the world of puzzles with their stunning collection. Their Oceania Animals Series 1 showcases four beautifully crafted puzzles inspired by Australia’s native creatures. Today, let’s talk about Kookaburra - a charming masterpiece that’s as fun to assemble as it is to admire!

Why I love ❤️ this puzzle:

(1) 219 Wooden Jigsaw Pieces

This Kookaburra puzzle is made up of 219 pieces, each contributing to the final image of this iconic Aussie bird. What makes it stand out is the lack of a traditional frame, which adds extra challenge as you can’t rely on edge pieces to start. Without the usual edge pieces to guide us, we would need to rely on our limited spatial skills and intuition right from the start - which was a truly humbling experience!

(2) Uniquely Shaped, Non-Traditional Pieces With Wildlife Surprises

The real magic lies in the puzzle pieces themselves. Each one is uniquely shaped, with twisting forms that break away from the standard tabs and blanks of mass-market puzzles. As we worked through the puzzle, we encountered series of delightful Australian wildlife surprises. Look closely and you’ll spot a spider, emu, wild dog, lizard, galah, an outline of the Australian map, and MORE - all cleverly integrated into the design. We had a blast assembling the puzzle whilst discovering the hidden shapes and marvelling at the thoughtfulness behind each piece.

(3) Artistic & Intricate Motifs

The bird is made-up of and divided into multiple artistically-done sections, each featuring intricate motifs inspired by Australian Indigenous culture. Wavy lines and circular patterns, reminiscent of traditional Aboriginal art, are woven throughout the design, adding a rich layer of cultural inspiration to the puzzle.

(4) High-Quality, Laser-Cut pieces

The puzzle is made from high-quality, laser-cut wooden pieces that are chunky and precisely crafted. The vibrant colors and bright artwork make it visually striking. The pieces fit together smoothly and slide seamlessly into place. The puzzle comes in a compact wooden box, making it a convenient and sturdy package. The craftsmanship and attention to detail makes this puzzle an engaging experience, offering both a challenging build and a beautiful finished piece to display.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Dymocks (Australia)

Games World (Australia)

Gameology (Australia)

Mind Games (Australia)

Enjoy the video!

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Wooden Train Puzzle Pull Toy, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Wooden train puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 3 year-old ++

Who would love this: Collectors of vintage, wooden toys

Imagine a delightful, handcrafted wooden train that exudes nostalgic joy and timeless fun! Recently, we had the pleasure of reviewing the “Wooden Train Puzzle Pull Toy” from Funyards Australia , a family-owned gem nestled in the picturesque Blue Mountains of New South Wales, known for its high-quality wooden toys and educational products. This charming toy brings a smile to our faces with its simple, enduring appeal.

Why I love ❤️ this toy:

(1) A 3D Puzzle & Stacker Toy

This adorable train is not just a 3D puzzle, it’s also a versatile “stacker” toy. The wooden locomotive features four main segments: a front cab and three connectable carriages, each with smooth-rolling wheels. It includes 21 intricately crafted puzzle pieces in various shapes and sizes that fit snugly onto the pegs on each carriage. When the pieces are perfectly arranged, they form a charming rail-bound masterpiece that delights young builders. However, creativity knows no bounds, right? Feel free to experiment with different configurations and design your own unique train (and who cares how odd they may turn out?). I love the playful red “eyes” and the smooth, rounded finishes of the puzzle pieces. Assembling the train requires hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, offering a satisfying challenge and a rewarding sense of accomplishment!

(2) Pull Toy With Smooth-Rolling Wheels

The vintage train boasts smooth-rolling wheels and a sturdy, red pull cord that’s perfectly designed for small hands ready for endless adventures. It navigates corners effortlessly, sparking imaginative play and embodying the charm of classic railway journeys. This is a faithful companion and quiet friend, accompanying kids on walks and providing hours of railway excitement. It’s ideal for new walkers - supporting their steps with confidence while encouraging exploration and fun.

(3) Sturdy Wooden Toy With Beautiful Craftmanship

I love the sturdy, wooden craftsmanship of this toy. It’s solid and durable, not too heavy, showcasing refined and beautiful craftsmanship. The natural grain and texture of the rubberwood add to its charm. This toy is not only a delightful plaything for kids but also serves as a classic decorative piece for the home. We love it!

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Check out more reviews of wooden toys for your little people from Funyards Australia:

Enjoy the video!

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Wooden 3D Puzzle - Motorcycle, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Wooden 3D puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 7 year-old ++

Who would love this: Kids and adults who enjoy quick DIY / craft and building project

We love exploring the world of build-it-yourself plywood puzzles - from iconic landmarks to incredible vehicles. Today, let’s dive into the “Wooden 3D Puzzle - Motorcycle” - a sleek and dynamic road warrior that combines style with excitement! Thank you Funyards Australia for providing a copy for review!

Why I love ❤️ this set:

(1) 34 Laser-Cut Plywood Pieces

The set comes with two wooden sheets 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 34 individuals pieces) - all can be easily popped out and removed without using any tool. The illustrated guide provides a clear step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the motorcycle. It was really fun to see how these plywood pieces came together to form a dashing bike. Simply insert and connect the pieces together in sequence - from the main frame, wheels, handlebars, footrest, saddled seat, fender, and more. The entire process took us around 30 minutes to complete - it’s a delightful project, not too difficult to execute, stress-free, yet satisfying at the same time!

(2) Stylish & Simple DIY Project

Like the other Funyards wooden puzzle sets - this motorcycle design includes a variety of details that make it a stylish choice for a simple, quick project. The front fork is flexible and steerable, allowing it to move from side to side, while the wheels roll smoothly. All components are securely assembled. This motorcycle model is a compact, elegant decorative item for any home.

(3) Well-Designed Kit With Precision

The puzzle pieces are laser-cut with precision, featuring well-designed and accurately-sized gaps and links that allow for effortless assembly. I’m impressed by how easily the pieces fit together without the need for glue or tools. The set also includes a small piece of sandpaper to smooth the edges and wooden surfaces

(4) Flat-Pack With Minimal Packaging

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. This is a great building set for adults and kids. Additionally, the product has passed CE and ASTM tests, as indicated in the included information.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Check out more similar wooden DIY puzzles from Funyards Australia:

Enjoy the video!

Monday, September 9, 2024

Sky Tower, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature / Type: Wooden puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 8 year-old ++

Who would love this: Collectors of wooden puzzles & brainteasers

There is some mystical charm about wooden puzzles - the lovingly crafted handmade quality, the beautiful natural timber material, and the wisdom behind each logical challenge presented. Today, let’s take a look at this captivating 3D puzzle - “Sky Tower” from Funyards Australia (thank you for providing).

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) Packing Puzzle That Rises Upwards

This is a packing puzzle that rises vertically upwards. It is said to be designed by W. L. Van der Poel, a Dutch computer scientist (be prepared to be amazed by the precision and ingenuity of the design!). It reminds me of a Japanese wooden pagoda with a touch of modernity, with classic multi-storey architectural charm completed with a curved roof at the top that accentuates the symmetrical balance of the completed structure. Once you remove the separable pieces bit by bit, you will discover 10 individual parts (plus a rooftop piece/ lid) of multiple unique geometric shapes, each piece composed of 1 to 6 number of cubes. The challenge is to re-arrange the puzzle pieces so that the 50 cubes would fit nicely in a columns of 5 in 10 levels, held securely within a wooden base with 4 vertical poles. It’s like a game of Tetris, but in 3D form. Sharp observation and immaculate pre-planning skills play a big part - but in case you are stuck, there is an illustrated solution provided to unlock the secrets.

(2) Gorgeous Sky Tower Structure

This Sky Tower puzzle is stunningly tall (around 25.5 cm) and attention-grabbing. I am enchanted by the beautiful shades of the natural wooden pieces - a mix of dark timber, a few with hint of maroon touch, and some of a slightly lighter range. I love the gorgeous structure. This is more than just a challenging brainteaser - it also makes an exciting display piece at home.

(3) Handcrafted by Local Artisans in Thailand

Like many other Funyards Australia wooden products - this brainteaser set is lovingly-handmade by local artisans in Thailand. It is built for long-lasting play, durable and solid, and precisely crafted. Go ahead and check out more about Funyards Australia - a family-owned business focuses on selling award-winning quality products, with a strong emphasis on STEM and wooden educational products.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Enjoy the video!

Sunday, July 21, 2024

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:

Enjoy the video!

Thursday, May 9, 2024

City Planner Puzzle, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type: Wooden puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 7 year-old ++

Who would love this: Brainteasers/ puzzle lovers

I am enchanted by this City Planner Puzzle since the first time I set my eyes on it. It’s a 3D vertical artwork that resembles a densely populated urban landscape of skyscrapers and high-rises. It’s abstract, yet strangely beautiful. Thank you Funyards Australia for sending this over.

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) Packing Puzzle With 9 Unique Pieces + City Theme

This is a classic packing puzzle but with a three-dimensional touch. The puzzle comes with a wooden base with frames at 4 sides, 9 unique puzzle pieces, and a dowel pin. First, place the pin into any of the holes in the base. Now, let’s the challenge begin! Build a “city” around it using the 9 puzzle pieces, arrange them so that each will fit perfectly within the frame. All of the pieces are uniquely carved, with different shapes to create various placement combinations. The key is to observe the base of each piece, and “re-imagine” them as various shapes formed with 2D squares. The aim is to arrange these shapes to fit into a base of 7x7 grid. This is a refreshing and atheistic take of a classic puzzle.

(2) 13 Challenges & Easy Setting-Up

I love that there are 13 challenges in this set, and it’s super easy to set it up! Simply place the dowel pin in one of the 13 holes in the base, and get cracking! This is a brainteaser to sharpen critical thinking, encourage problem-solving, enhance visual perception, perfect hand-eye coordination. And if you ever get stuck - fear not! There is a one-page illustrated solutions included for all 13 challenges!

(3) Stunning Art Piece Of Cityscape

I am captivated by the beautiful shades of the wooden pieces - some have a natural darker grain, a few with lighter timber colours, and a few towers are painted in stunning red to give the cityscape a multi-layered, artistic touch. The final outcome looks different each time we re-assemble it.

(4) Long-Lasting Wooden Puzzle With Fantastic Craftmanship

The craftsmanship is precise and fantastic. Each puzzle pieces are carefully cut in impressive precision, smoothly-finished to high quality. Like other Funyards Australia products - this brainteaser set is lovingly-handmade by local artisans in Thailand. It is built for long-lasting play, durable and solid. It’s both a stimulating wooden puzzle and an artistic display at home.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Check out more reviews of similar wooden puzzle sets from Funyards Australia:

Enjoy the video!

Saturday, April 6, 2024

12 Puzzles In A Gift Box, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type: Wooden puzzles

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 10 year-old ++

Who would love this: Collectors of timeless, wooden puzzles

I am fascinated by the beauty of wooden brainteasers and Kumiki puzzles. They are timeless, ingenious, never go out-of-style! If you don’t know where to start your collection, have a look at the beautifully curated products at Funyards Australia - and don’t forget to check out its “12 Puzzles In A Gift Box” set!

Why I love ❤️ this set:

(1) 12 Wooden Puzzles In One Gift Box

Well, what can I say? Imagine unlocking secrets of 12 mechanical puzzles, each unique and distinctive in its own right, all attractively wrapped-up in a handcrafted box completes with an enchanting white floral ribbon at the top. It’s hard not to get excited about these mesmerising puzzles; 7-piece 3x3 Soma cube in a container with lid (don’t forget to explore the 240 possible solutions available), the challenging Snake Puzzle (the included solution guide came to my rescue for this one!), Falling Star Burr Puzzle (my personal favourite), Round Saucers Puzzle (that looks a little like a mini wine barrel), Star Puzzle (really fun to build!), Lumber Jack, 2 different “Diamond Puzzles”, Squares Cube, Notched Stick, Soccer Puzzle, and the almost impossible “12 Puzzle”.

(2) Varying Difficulty Levels For All Ages

I love that the puzzles are of varying difficulty levels. The 6-piece Star Puzzle is straightforward and I love how the pieces joined together in such believable clever way! The Soma Puzzle is pretty kids-friendly and the 7 polycubes can be stacked randomly to build various miniature structures. Don’t be deceived by the innocent-looking Lumber Jack and Diamond, and I have yet to figure out the steps to put this “12 Puzzle” (with an encased ball) back into its original structure. This is an awesome gift for anyone who enjoys stimulating brain activities and solving addictive logical challenges. There is an illustrated solutions included for all 12 puzzles.

(3) Beautiful Craftmanship & Natural Wooden Material

The craftsmanship of the puzzles is fantastic, and I especially love the natural wooden material of the products. The precision of the puzzle pieces is impressive, each smoothly-finished to high quality. (4) The gift box itself is an elegant work of art. It has two levels within, with individual compartment for each of the 12 puzzles.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Check out more reviews of similar wooden puzzle sets from Funyards Australia:

Enjoy the video!

Monday, March 11, 2024

51-Piece Pagoda Burr Puzzle, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type: Wooden 3D puzzle

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age: 8 year-old ++

Who would love this: Collectors of wooden puzzles

I received this 51-Piece Pagoda Burr Puzzle from Funyards Australia a while back, and I must confess: I was REALLY scared to test it out. There was a little voice kept bugging me - “there is absolutely NO WAY I would ever be able to re-build this model once it’s dismantled!”. Guess what? I did it, FINALLY. All I can say is: this puzzle is not for the faint-hearted; but once you have figured out the tricks and the steps, the experience is simply priceless!

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) 51-Piece Puzzle With Sophisticated Interlocking System

This puzzle is ridiculously hard, but strangely satisfying. Shape-wise, it looks like a Pagoda with its multifaceted, four-sided architectural structure; it also resembles a crystalline solid rock with symmetrical cut. It’s a burr puzzle of jumbo size, consisting of 51 individual segments that can be grouped into roughly 11 categories of shapes, sizes and lengths, once disassembled. There is an illustrative solution that came with this puzzle, and thanks to the power of YouTube, I also found a few videos online that provide some handy tips to assemble this painfully challenging puzzle. I am immensely impressed by the ingenuity of the design, the sophisticated interlocking system, the precisely-cut bars that mesh and connect so seamlessly together. Oh that JOY when I slid in and twisted the final piece that successfully “locked-up” the structure securely, turning the multiple pieces into a single solid object. The sense of achievement is indescribable! It’s a captivating mechanism that would intrigue all puzzle-lovers!

(2) Aesthetically-Pleasing Decorative Item

This geometrically perfect structure is mesmerising and aesthetically-pleasing. It’s a beautiful decorative item at home, and will sure captivate and keep any of your puzzle-loving guests entertained for an hour or longer!

(3) Sturdy Quality & Handcrafted by Local Artisans In Thailand

I love the slight rustic feel of the handmade product. I love the sturdy quality and the contrasting shades of the timber that really accentuates the beauty of natural wood. The puzzle is manufactured in Thailand, and elegantly handcrafted by local artisans.

# gifted in exchange for review

Where to buy this:

Funyards Australia

Enjoy the videos!

How To Solve 51-Piece Pagoda Burr Puzzle Video:

51-Piece Pagoda Burr Puzzle- Review Video: