Hot Wheels Track Builder Vertical Launch Kit
(Mattel $48.99)
You’ll need a clear wall to set this up and not to worry…it comes with removable command strips that do not mark the wall. We're happy to report that it also comes with a wall template to take the guesswork out of putting it up. Be forewarned: An adult must do the assembly. Older kids can help with putting the track together, but this is not something kids will be able to figure out on their own. One of our test families was so eager to play, they found the hour long wait difficult, since the "command strips" need that long to set. Once assembled the tracks and chutes can be rearranged in multiple ways. Testers liked the spiral chute, the cross-over tracks and best of all you can add your hot wheels tracks to it. As one family write: "Initially, the size was exciting to both boys. After playing, J— liked experimenting with which cars worked best on the track. Z— preferred engineering new routes with track we already owned." Their mom reported : "This product encourages creativity and STEAM learning because the kids use physics, engineering, and their imagination to determine what track to use and how to launch their car to successfully navigate the loops and turns."
There was a bit of good news/bad news: "While learning how hard to hit the launcher the kids would either hit it too soft and the car wouldn’t go up, or they'd hit it so hard that the car flew off the track and hit the ceiling. During this time, the launcher cracked. It is still able to be used but it did break within the first couple of days. Typically, my kids don't break toys, so this may happen to other kids as well. Like I said, the product can still be used even while cracked." Unlike a lot of Hot Wheels sets, this is kid powered— no batteries needed. If they’re in the Hot Wheels zone, this will be a novelty that adds to the fun and may even revitalizes their interest in Hot Wheels. The kit comes with just one car. Marked for 6-12.
Ages: Early School, Tweens
Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2019
