Toys : Transformers Fast Action Battlers Sonic Shock Smokescreen

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Rating:

- A transformer that is actually appropriate for children
Hi,
My 2.5 year old is crazy for transformers -- but finding ones that are appropriate for his age group has been a challenge. Here is what I have learned -- hope it helps you.

First we bought a "Deluxe" class Bumblebee. IMHO, don't bother. The toy is quite detailed and "realistic," but it is not well engineered. I find the transformation annoying and fiddly. My son is is utterly flummoxed -- he can neither go from car to robot nor from robot to car. If your kid is younger than 8 I wouldn't bother with the "deluxe" class, and even then he better be good at mechanical systems and a careful kid (or he'll lose the bits that come off.) Also, I found the fit and quality on this model a disappointment. It just doesn't work very well. In the car form, the model is always a little askew, which disturbs my fastidious son. "Fix it, Mommy." he insists, and I can't.

Next I bought a "Cyber Slammer" Optimus Prime. This is the absolute simplest transformer. My 2.5 year old loves the toy -- he can transform it in both directions: car to robot and robot to car. I highly recommend this for the youngest kids.

Third, I bought the Smokescreen "Fast Action Battler." I also recommend this toy for kids -- although perhaps for slightly older kids. My son can go from car to robot, but he needs my help to go from robot to car. However, the transformation is much simpler AND the fit and finish on the toy is better -- making it much more satisfying to "transform." Everything "clicks" together very nicely, so that both the car and the robot forms are solid and highly "playable." My son loves the toy and I am sure he will soon be able to manage the transform on his own.

Rating:

- Easiest to Transform for a toddler and still cool looking
If your young'n gets frustrated with the deluxe series of transformers, give this one a try! Its a great stepping stone, and will give your 3-5 year old a sense of accomplishment, my 3 1/2 year old (I've referred to him as a 4 year old in other reviews, but he's almost exactly 3.5 years old) Had no problem converting this one after I showed him, and now he can do almost all the deluxe series now as well! I feel it really builds his coordination and Fine motor skills- so I gave it a "5" for education. Nice durable toy- he has not broken any of them yet (and he can bust up lots of toys -fast-) any pieces that do come off are designed so that they can be popped back on(usually a ball and socket design) These toys go for $[...]-so dont pay any more!

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