Toys & Games Reviews

Toys and games represent one of the trickiest buying decisions — you're often buying for someone else's taste and for an age group whose preferences you may not fully understand. Here's how to get it right.

Age ratings are a guide, not a rule — but they exist for a reason. Age recommendations on toys reflect both safety (small parts, choking hazards) and developmental appropriateness. For safety, treat the minimum age as a hard floor. For play value, consider whether the child is advanced or behind the typical range for their age.

Consider the realistic lifespan of the toy. Some toys are played with intensively for three weeks and then forgotten. Others — a good construction set, a quality board game, a well-designed outdoor toy — become long-term favourites. Ask yourself which category you're buying in.

Battery requirements are an underrated factor. A toy that needs four AA batteries will cost you in batteries over its lifespan. USB rechargeable is increasingly standard and almost always preferable. Check whether batteries are included and what ongoing battery costs look like.

For board games, check player count and play time carefully. A game listed as "2–6 players" may actually be significantly better with a specific player count — reviews will tell you this. Play time estimates are also often optimistic; factor in setup and rules explanation for new players.

Durability varies enormously. Children are hard on toys. Customer reviews almost always mention durability — specifically how quickly things broke and how the manufacturer responded. Look for reviews from parents who've had the toy for more than a few months, not just initial impressions.