Picking out gifts for 11-year-old boys isn’t easy. That’s why we’re here to bring our savvy shoppers the most amazing in-demand toys every child wants. Whether it’s Marvel, Lego, or something you may not have thought of, we’ve got something for every type of child.
When buying bikes for 11 year olds, you don’t want to go with something cheap. I know, I know, we all hate spending more but think of this as an investment.
Schwinn is a known brand in the bike scene, so this is quality you’re buying.
The steel comfort frame and suspension fork offer the smoothest of rides.
In a similar vein, the front and rear alloy pull brakes mean when you need to stop, this thing will. Combine that with the swept-back handlebar and this may be one of the most comfortable rides you’ll ever take.
Don’t forget, if you need any more bike ideas, we’ve already counted down the best bikes for boys.
Ninebot is the go-to company when it comes to making electric scooters. The company’s tech is always cutting edge, and in a field where most start-ups are doomed to fail, Ninebot makes it work
In terms of speed, this beast has a max speed of 10 mph, which is exactly the speed you want when it comes to kids. It’s the kind of speed you’ll well and truly feel as you blast around the backyard.
The eKickScooter is capable of a huge 6.3 miles per charge, which again, is more than enough.
This thing is super light as well, coming in at just 18.7 pounds, and while we’re talking pounds, the weight limit for the ES1 is 132 pounds.
As I say, Ninebot is the best electric scooter company in the world, so if it’s the best you’re after, this scooter is a good place to start and finish.
If you’re after presents for 11 year old boys, the Nintendo Switch is the best you’ll find.
This is a video game console that hooks up to the TV, but when they want to take it out with them or play in their bedroom, you can undock the Switch and use it as a tablet.
So it’s two consoles in one, hence the name Switch.
The joy-con controllers are excellent, too.
When in TV mode, you can either use one joy-con in each hand or plug them into the controller add-on to use it like a traditional controller.
In handheld mode, you can plug the joy-con into each side of the console to control it.
The other thing to keep in mind, as this is Nintendo, the vast majority of games will be geared towards children.
This isn’t to say adults won’t love these games, but they’ll generally feature a more child-friendly aesthetic and learning curve, and the violence is toned way down.
As I say, the Nintendo Switch is the best video game console on the market for kids, and with a wide array of games to pick up, it really is easy to recommend.
If your child prefers to play on handheld devices, and you’d like to save yourself 100 bucks, the Nintendo Switch Lite is for you.
So, what are the differences between the original Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite?
The short version is the original Nintendo Switch can be played in both handheld and TV mode, while the Switch Lite is purely just a handheld.
That’s the short version, but there are other things to consider.
First up, because the Switch Lite is only used as a handheld, it’s got a longer battery life. I average around three hours on my original Nintendo Switch whereas my Switch Lite can achieve upwards of five hours.
Of course, some more powerful games will drain the battery quicker than others, but in my experience, the difference is around two to three hours between the two consoles.
It’s also worth keeping in mind the joy-con controllers don’t detach on the Switch Lite. There’s also a handful of games that won’t work on Switch Lite. That said, the vast majority of games dowork. It’s only the more motion-controlled ones that won’t.
If you’re after child-friendly games – Mario, Sonic, Zelda and so on – all work without any issue.
What it all comes down to is will your child be using the Switch on the TV. If they are, go with the original Switch. If not, save yourself a small fortune and go with the Switch Lite.
This is a four-foot arcade cabinet, meaning this has been designed for people to pull up a chair and sit in comfort as they play.
That said, you can buy a kickstand to get that old-school feel.
In terms of games, you don’t just get one version of Street Fighter 2 – you get all the best versions. The full list is Street Fighter II Champion Edition, Street Fighter II The New Challengers, and Street Fighter II Turbo.
The screen on this thing is crisp, the buttons responsive, and the games all run without any issues.
And if you’re a little put off by having to build this beast, don’t be. There’s YouTube videos online to guide you through, but to be honest, the instruction manual is enough. It’s all nice and simple.
It’s a fun set with loads of track pieces so kids can build either smaller sets or massive railways going around their bedroom.
Plus it’s remote-controlled, too, meaning they can bring this thing to life just like a real train set.
The great thing about this set is being able to create your own design. Sure, you can follow the instructions, but the joy of these types of building kits is having fun as you figure it out along the way.
It takes 1,474 pieces to build this beast. That is a lot, and you’re sure to get your money’s worth.
What’s great about this set is how detailed it is. It’s the little things like the change in brick tone and added spookiness that really makes this set.
Something else I really like is how you’re not just building the front of the house. Spin it around and there’s different, eerie rooms on the back.
Plus as this is Hidden Side, if your child has a mobile device they can download the app and play with this toy in virtual form.
Download the app and kids can use this smart track to race and complete different in-app challenges.
Cars can be scanned into the app to level them up. It’s almost like a cross between a video game and a Hot Wheels set.
Although this image shows one of the building options, there’s 20-plus different configurations to make.
Everything in this kit includes 16 Hot Wheels track pieces, one Hot Wheels id portal to scan cars, and two cars that are exclusive to this set.
Why is this worth it? Kids love being able to race toy cars at high speeds, whether it’s on the floor or up and over a bed, and this track takes Hot Wheels into a new dimension thanks to its ingenious app integration.
Now this is cool. If you’ve ever wondered what happens in the pitch black of night, these Night Vision Binoculars have the answers.
This is pure awesomeness. Imagine sitting by a window looking into the backyard with a set of night vision binoculars. Tell me that doesn’t sound like tons of fun.
These binoculars are the real deal, too. They’re comfortable, have a viewing range of 110 yards, and feature 3x fixed magnification with a 2x digital zoom button.
It requires eight AA batteries which will get you around six hours of usage.
Not only that, it comes with an 18-month warranty and Nightfox product support should you run into any issues.
Lastly, and this is a sign of quality, these binoculars are a number one best seller with a comfortable four-star rating from 232 reviews (that means it’s pretty darn good).
The Xbox One X is the most powerful video game console on the market.
This thing has six teraflops of graphical processing power, a 4K Blu ray player, supports native 4K, and HDR.
But what does any of that really mean? Basically, it’s super-fast, looks better than any other console, and has excellent sound.
It comes with a controller, and for storage you’ve got a 1TB hard drive – the latter is the sweet spot in terms of storage. Especially at this point in the console’s generational life-cycle. There are so many games now that anything lower than 1TB isn’t worth it.
In terms of what games are worth picking up alongside the console, for 11 year olds you won’t go wrong with the LEGO Harry Potter Collection, the Spyro Trilogy, or if they’ve never played it before, Skylanders Imaginators. You can also download Fortnite free of charge from the Xbox One X’s online store.
It’s also worth keeping in mind, Xbox One and PlayStation 4 games are generally much cheaper than Nintendo Switch games. So if you’re after savings in the long run, Xbox One or PlayStation 4 is the way to go.
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is the most popular video game console on the market.
Now, before we get into it, I need to mention the PS4 Pro.
The PS4 Pro is a more powerful version of the PS4 Slim, but the upgrade isn’t worth the extra cost in my opinion.
Games will look nicer, but not as nice as the Xbox One X, and loading times are faster, but the problem is it sounds like a jet engine, which isn’t great at 7am.
Not only that, it’s not enough of an upgrade to justify the extra expense, hence why I recommend the PS4 Slim over the PS4 Pro.
The PS4 Slim comes with a 1TB hard drive, which is the industry standard right now. Anything less than 1TB and you’ll run out of space faster than you can say “Does it play Fortnite?” (it does).
The Giiker Super Cube is the single best Rubik’s Cube you’ll ever find.
I got sent one for review and I’m absolutely blown away by just how good this thing is.
The most important factor is this isn’t just a lump of plastic, it’s a smart cube, meaning it’s designed to be used with a mobile device.
The app this cube works with, which is a free download, has so many cool features.
You can use it to reset the cube by following easy-to-understand on-screen instructions. Then there’s the option to create stylish patterns on the cube. There’s even a tutorial to teach kids about how Rubik’s cubes work and how to solve them.
And that’s before we factor in the games!
My personal favorite game in the app is one where there’s a person on-screen and you need to twist the real-life cube to move them around and collect coins.
What’s more, the app can – magically! – keep track of where each colored piece is, so when you do want to reset it, the on-screen cube mirrors what you’re looking at.
Honestly, Rubik’s cubes may not be the most exciting gift in the world, but to call the Super Cube just a Rubik’s cube does it a massive disservice.
This thing is way more than just a Rubik’s cube. It’s everything kids love – video games, something to fidget with, puzzles – all rolled into one.
The battle bus itself is highly-detailed and looks exactly as it should.
The same goes for the two figures that come with this set, Funk Ops and Burnout.
Just keep in mind, these are the smaller figures – each toy stands at around two-inches in height.
I got sent some of the earlier figures in this range and while they are deceptively durable, because of their size it’s worth thinking about how well your child looks after toys.
If they have a habit of breaking things easily, definitely consider going with the larger, six-inch figures instead.
If you’re on the lookout for a high-end drone, the Potensic D58 FPV Drone is the way to go.
This sleek black drone has a fly time of 18 minutes, which is a lot for drones. Spinning those propellers while transmitting a camera feed takes a lot of power, so while 18 minutes may not sound like much. It’s enough for a family day out.
Something else that’s awesome, the transmission distance on this beast is between 400 to 500 meters, meaning you don’t need to be up close to keep this drone in the air. Neat!
As for the camera, we’re taking 1080p with a 120 degree wide-angle lends. IMages the drone capture will be crisp (or as crisp as flying through the air allows).
There’s also a GPS mode where the drone follows your mobile device, allowing you to take only the pictures you want.
Although there are cheaper drones out there, the difference in price normally comes down to quality. As a general drone rule, the more you pay, the better the quality.
There’s three different heads in this set and all are near-perfect. They really capture the likeness with ease.
Nightcrawler isn’t an easy likness to capture, either. Getting a goblin-like human right can’t have been easy.
Outside of the heads, you’ve got a truckload of articulation, including double knee-joints and an ankle swivel, which is perfect for posing.
You also get a saber sword and an extra hand should you decide to ditch the weapon.
This figure is also part fo the Wendigo build-a-figure wave (Nightcrawler comes with Wendigo’s left arm), so if you end up picking up the entire wave, you get to build another massive figure.
I keep banging on about shoulder-swivel joints, but when you’re playing with a Wolverine toy, you want to be able to crank those arms back as far as possible.
Factor in posing the toy on a shelf and it’s easy to understand why shoulder-swivel articulation makes toys even better.
This Wolverine figure also comes with removable claws, so if you want this toy to look like his claws are sheathed, you totally can.
I was also really impressed with how the glove and boots sculpts came out. These are areas toy companies can skimp on but Hasbro got the detailing just right.
This figure also comes with the Wendigo build-a-figure head.
Getting kids to learn isn’t easy. But tell them they’ll be building their own computer and coding in Minecraft and they’ll jump right on board.
The Boolean Box is one of the best gifts for 11 year old boys I’ve ever seen. It is legit brilliant.
Inside the box is a Raspberry Pi, which is essentially a tiny computer capable of a lot. All you need to set it up is an HDMI cable to connect it to a TV.
Once set up there’s a host of lessons online to teach kids about electronics, animation, and coding in Scratch, Python, and Java, specifically in Minecraft.
If you want to get your child into STEM learning in a fun way they’re going to understand, the Boolean Box is simply too good to pass up.
And given this comes with a computer and custom case, power supply, Pi pinboard, resistors, buttons and lights, an HDMI cable, and an 8GB SD card – all for sub $200! – this is absolutely outstanding value.
These 12-inch figures fit really well with the Marvel range of titan figures, so if your child collects the 12-inchers, they’ll be right at home here.
Despite their size, each of the figures in this pack has a solid amount of articulation.
Shoulder joints, the legs move up and down and side to side, and the head pivots.
It’s not a massive amount of articulation, but given the size of these toys, it’s enough to battle with.
The two characters in this pack are Cuddle Team Leader and Ghoul Trooper; two of the most popular Fortnite characters around. In fact, Cuddle Team Leader has become the de facto face of Fortnite.
Plus, you know, they’re super affordable, which is always a nice surprise.
Remote-controlled cars never go out of fashion, making this a safe bet for a gift.
What I absolutely love about this is how accurate the ATK is.
It’s based on an ATK from the game and it’s got all the little touches, like the dice and the flag at the back. It’s those little things that really bring playsets to life.
You also get a four-inch Drift figure, which while not the best Fortnite figure on this list, is still decent and very playable.
But let’s face it, the real star here is being able to whizz around an ATK and send it soaring off different surfaces.
I gotta be honest, I wasn’t massively sold on Jazwares’ original range of Fortnite toys. But since the launch of the Legendary line, my opinion has changed.
There’s 40 points of articulation, which is a massive step up, it comes with a ton of accessories, and they look a lot more like the characters.
So, let’s talk accessories. In this pack you get an interchangeable head, two guns, a pickaxe, tomato toy, shield pot, and back bling.
That’s a lot of accessories to play with!
Not only that, the original range of Jazwares Fortnite toys just didn’t look like the characters. This Tomatohead gets likeness and proportions just right.
A year ago I’d have passed on the Jazwares line, but now they’re one of the best gifts for 11 year old boys around. What a turnaround!
This game has a huge roster of Marvel characters to play with and unlock, including characters from Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain Marvel, and Avengers.
I’m playing through this at the moment and I’m really enjoying getting to grips with the different characters and seeing who can do what.
Each character has their own powers and playstyle. For example, as Scarlet Witch you can shoot projectiles whereas playing as Wolverine is all about getting up close and slashing anything that moves.
Every character feels varied and unique, so expect it to take some time until you find your perfect team.
Speaking of teams, in this game you can select four different heroes and switch between them at the push of a button. There’s no going out into a menu to switch between your four, which makes this game much more fluid.
In terms of what this game is, it’s a top-down brawler, which essentially means kids will pick their team then battle through different areas as they attempt to take down Thanos and the Black Order.
It’s fun, and if your child’s a massive Marvel geek like me they are going to love this.
After something creative? Super Mario Maker 2 lets kids make their own Super Mario levels.
It’s really simple to use as well. So much so, my nine-year-old is actually better at it than I am!
You start by picking a theme for your level to make it look like the older Mario games or the newer ones. After that, it’s all about placing different items or blocks.
This is all done by clicking on an item then drawing on the touchscreen with your finger.
Build some flooring, add some hills, drop in some enemies and press play to see how it plays out.
Once kids have the hang of the basics they can move on to more complex concepts – like pipes to transport them elsewhere, adding end of level bosses, or mixing two enemy types to make a complete new baddie.
And when they’re not building levels, there’s also a single-player mode to play through a selection of levels made by Nintendo.
It’s all really great fun that’s sure to get kids thinking. IGN even called Super Mario Maker 2 the most accessible game design tool ever, so who knows, maybe you’ll end up with a young video game developer on your hands.
Minecraft is the biggest game on the planet and it’s easy to see why.
This game has two different modes, Creative and Survival.
In Survival, kids need to chop down trees for wood, hunt for resources like food, and generally survive for as long as they can.
Survival has different difficulty levels, too, meaning new players are always welcome.
Although kids won’t be building mega creations in Survival, because they’ve had to farm up every block themselves their smaller buildings will have more value.
In Creative, kids have a limitless amount of every different block type, meaning they truly can create whatever they want, be it castles, houses, or even a working calculator!
Whichever mode your child plays, they’re sure to learn a lot about nature and architecture.
And as it’s the biggest game in the world, new ideas are just a YouTube video away.
LEGO Batmobiles can often be expensive. Thankfully, this LEGO Batmobile comes in at a rather modest price.
This Batmobile has a lot of cool hidden features.
The wings move, the front bumper can be adjusted, there’s hidden stud-launchers on the side, and when you drive it forward, the fire at the back spins.
Kids love LEGO, but when LEGO designs something to be more than a static build, they’re sure to love it even more.
This set also comes with a Batman and Joker mini-figure, meaning kids have figures to play with as soon as the final piece clicks into place.
The idea here is to create stop-motion movies with the free downloadable app.
It’s so easy to use as well. The set comes with a tripod for setting up a phone or tablet, then it’s just a case of getting everything into position, snapping a shot, then slightly moving the toys.
The limbs of the figures move with ease, and because of the suction cups on the feet and hands, the rest of the body won’t flail around as you’re adjusting the pose in between shots, leading to crisper stop motion.
Honestly, the Stikbots and Klikbots really came out of left-field, but the result is something that’s both fun to play with and teaches your child about stop motion.
It really is one of the best gifts for 11 year old boys around.
Honestly, don’t underestimate how much enjoyment kids will get out of this Klikbot Axil Toy.
I got sent some of these not so long ago, and while I didn’t have high expectations, they’ve pleasantly surprised me.
These are meant to be used with the free app to make stop motion movies, but they also work as toys as well.
For stop motion, the Klikbots have durable limbs which can move slightly with each click, making them perfect for making movies.
They also make the most satisfying clicking noise when you bend their limbs. It’s delightful, and could be good for kids with autism who are sick to death of being given fidget spinners.
This toy also comes with a selection of interchangeable hands, including suction cups, and a set of wings.
Again, I know they don’t look like much, but once your kid gets their hands on them, they’ll see why I think it’s one of the best gifts for 11 year old boys there is.
If you’re after an even more affordable Klikbot, the Cosmo Klikbot is a surefire win.
Klikbots are affordable already, but these solo packs are definitely not going to break the bank. THEY’RE SUCH GOOD VALUE!
I’ve already covered in the Thud Klikbot post why I love these, but it’s essentially they make a delicious clicking noise that has to be seen and felt to be believed, they stick to any flat surface (my kids hung ours from the stairs), and creating stop motion with them is really easy.
Plus, they’re fun just to play with on their own, simply because they’re so unique.
This may look like a bit of plastic with no real substance, but trust me, looks can be deceiving. They are 100 percent the real deal.
Whenever someone asks me what’s the best tablet for kids, my answer is always the Fire 7.
You don’t want to start kids off on something expensive. Trust me, if it breaks, you’ll regret spending so much.
With the Fire 7, if it does break, Amazon will replace it. You can’t ask fairer than that.
While the FIre 7 lacks the breadth of apps Google Play offers, there’s enough of the heavy hitters available on the Amazon App Store to keep kids entertained.
Not only that, the Fire 7 has some killer parental control options – something that every parent needs to consider when buying a tablet.
It also comes in a kid-proof case, and if you buying for two children at the same time you can save an extra 25 percent. What’s not to love?
Vrum vrum! Cars! Crashes! Speed you feel the need for!
As you can probably guess, I haven’t played Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered. That said, it’s a game racing fans are always banging on about as being the series’ high point, and as the rules state, remastered games should only be bought when they’re on offer, which it now is.
If you’re after some car-tactual action with lots of, errm, driving? This is the game for you. I think.
It looks just like the Fortnite weapon it’s based on, albeit with a slight color change so it doesn’t look exactly like a real-life shotgun.
This is a pump-action blaster, meaning there’s no need for batteries. Simply cock it back, and this thing is ready to blast.
The TS-1 can fire four darts in a row and can store up to eight more.
And this goes without saying, but yes, it comes with official NERF darts.
I mention this because it’s not worth picking up unofficial darts. They’re not as good as the real deal and NERF has tested their darts to make them as safe as possible. Safety first and all that.
If you’re after an inexpensive NERF Blaster, go with the NERF Nailbiter.
Though this may be on the lower end of the NERF price scale, it still has the wow factor.
I mean, c’mon, it’s a nail gun meant for shooting zombies. What 11 year old boy isn’t going to love that?
The Nailbiter comes with eight NERF darts, all of which can be loaded into the indexer.
What’s an indexer exactly? Well, a NERF clip is an enclosed case which spring loads the darts up and into the chamber. With an indexer, the case is open and the whole thing moves vertically through the blaster to load the darts into the chamber.
There isn’t a pro/con of using a clip or an indexer, but for me, seeing the indexer move up as you fire it is cool as hell.
This set comes with 18 snotz capsules. Place one down on a flat surface, smash it with the hammer, and slimy goo bursts out of the capsule.
Six of the 18 capsules also contain a little toy to collect.
What makes this so great (and, yes, gross) is you can disassemble the hammer to use it as a syringe to collect the snotty slime and store it in the head of the hammer.
Honestly, I’d recommend having a play with this yourself, simply because popping the slime with the hammer is super satisfying.
This set is all about setting out on a quest to find the golden loot, which is legit dipped in real gold. Nice!
There’s traps to overcome, dig sites, secret doors, and, of course, that vault full of shiny treasure.
This playset also comes with three figures – one of which, King Goldcrown, is exclusive to this set.
What’s also great is the whole thing clip shuts for easy storage, meaning unlike LEGO, you shouldn’t be stepping on small parts long after they’re finished.
The Good Smile Company makes the best action figures on the planet, and this Overwatch Reaper Action Figure is no exception.
It’s all the small details that make this figure so damn good.
The detail on the chest plate, the intricately designed shotguns, the belt loop, even the mask – it’s all exactly as it is in-game.
Plus with Good Smile toys, articulation is key. Rather than opting for multiple pivots, Good Smile goes with ball joints, allowing for almost 360-degree movement.
If your child wants to pose their toys, this is exactly what they’re after.
You also get a display base, extra hands, and bullet effects for the guns.
Hasbro brought in the articulation from the Marvel Legends line and it works really well here.
Knees and elbows have double joints, and, also like Marvel Legends, this figure comes with interchangeable hands.
One of the hands even has a throwing star effect attached, which is pretty darn cool.
In terms of getting the likeness right, Good Smile wins over Hasbro, but that doesn’t mean Hasbro failed. It still looks like Genji, it’s just not as crisp.
All in all, if you want a wider variety and a lower price-point, the Overwatch Ultimates range is the way to go.
It’s got the size just right, the mask has all the stitching detail, the belly tattoo is present, and he’s even holding his gas canister.
Although Pops lack articulation, they’re still brilliant for displaying on shelves. Especially when you’ve got a collection going.
And that’s what’s key with Funko Pops. You can buy Pops of nearly every brand on the planet, so if you want Roadhog to battle Jonesy from Fortnite or even Pennywise the Clown, you totally can.
If it’s not the video game Fortnite they’re playing, chances are it’s Overwatch, so the NERF Overwatch D.Va Rival Blaster is another easy recommendation.
As the name suggests, this blaster is modeled on the one used by the character D.Va from Overwatch.
It’s a surprisingly big gun as well. It looks small, but there’s a certain weight to it.
If your child is an Overwatch player, the McCree Blaster is another solid gift idea, so be sure to check that out as well.
This Optimus Prime Figure is straight-up one of the best Transformers figures ever made.
The level of detail in this figure is insane. Just look at the windows and, well, all of it! No detail has been missed.
As you’d expect, this figure transforms from Optimus Prime into a truck in 33 steps. That’s not all, though.
You can also evolve this figure into Orion Pax. How cool is that?
You’ll never go wrong with Transformers. Even if they’re not into the TV series, kids will have so much fun learning how to change this toy into its different forms.
Not only that, the truck works like a toy car, meaning they can totally race it around the floor should the want arise.
If the idea of your child driving a motorbike terrifies you, don’t worry I get it. Thankfully, the GB Moto Motorcycle isn’t anything like an adult motorbike or an adult dirt bike.
First off, there’s front a rear brake, meaning should kids become worried or need to brake, this thing will.
This bike only ways 130-pounds as well, which isn’t so heavy that you can’t lift it.
I’ve also had a look through the customer reviews of this bike and there’s no mention of any injuries or crashes, which is always a good sign.
WWE’s Rey Mysterio is always popular with younger kids due to his high-flying antics.
This figure features True FX technology, which basically means the face is scanned by a machine to create the most realistic figures ever.
As this is part of the WWE Elite line, it comes with a selection of extra accessories, including a removeable t-shirt, extra hands, and a really awesome display base.
The base has a peg for the feet, meaning you can attach Rey by his ankle and get him into some really cool, high-flying poses.
Pair this with the Wrekkin’ Slam Mobile and I’d say you’re on your way to a selection of presents any WWE fan would adore.
If you’ve got a WWE fan in the house, the Demon Finn Balor is sure to be one of their favorites.
This figure gets the demon paint just right. The colors pop, and all the detail you see on TV has been translated into figure form effortlessly.
As this is one from the Entrance Greats line, it comes with a WWE ramp display base that when you press the button, plays the superstar’s entrance music. COOL!
Plus the sash is made from fabric and the demon head garb is removable.
And it’s packed with articulation, which I cannot stress enough is super important when playing with wrestling figures. How else would you be able to pull off a suplex is you can’t bend them right?
Don’t worry, I don’t expect many people will buy the Prime Arcade Cocktail Machine, but as we are bringing you the best gifts, we couldn’t NOT mention it.
So, what itis it? It’s an arcade machine that’s been more of a coffee table.
The controls are on the undersides of the table, and it comes with two rather nice chrome stools (which it really should given the price!).
In terms of games, this has all the classics from the 80s and 90s. Think Street Fighter 2, Q*Bert, that sort of things.
The cocktail arcade features a 22-inch LED monitor and the tempered glass is nice and strong.
Okay, let’s take a look at the elephant. Yes, it is super expensive, but given the sheer number of games, and the god-tier craftsmanship that’s gone into the design, the price kind of makes sense in a logical sort of way?
If someone tried to sell you a diamond for a nickel, you’d ask questions. Toys of this magnitude are going to cost a lot. If it didn’t, you’d have to question what the heck it’s made from and how long it’ll last, you know?
It’s got the size factor, each of the sections requires skill to put together, and the movement in this toy is second to none.
To be honest, it’s the head that really sells this thing for me. Translating a likeness into brick form isn’t easy, but Mega Construx has clearly studied what they’re designing.
If that’s not enough, this set also comes with a neat little water area to build.
I mean, just look at it. This thing works as a display piece by itself.
The level of detail is crazy and not just that but the colors seriously pop. The contrast between the infinity stones and the Iron Man red is lush.
Okay, I’m calm. Ahem. So.
This realistic gauntlet works as a toy as well. It’s got flashing lights, which are cool but not the coolest part.
The fingers are completely articulated, meaning you can actually wear this and pretend to be Iron Man (or Thanos if you want). Not only that, the gauntlet can lock into a fist pose when you want to whack it on a display shelf. Coooooooooooool!
Star Wars is always a popular gift choice, so if you’ve got a child who’s growing up on the latest movies, this Black Series Kylo Ren figure is a must.
This is the best Kylo Ren figure to date, simply because it encompasses all his different looks in one figure.
You can have the hooded look, the capeless look, or capeless and hooded thanks to the removable cloak and hood.
Previously the hood and cape were made from fabric so you couldn’t remove them. Your only option was to buy the second Kylo figure that didn’t have the cape/hood combo to get the hoodless look.
By adding them as removable features, kids can customize this Kylo to have it as whichever iteration they like the best.
With a Disney Streaming series on the way, The Mandalorian is sure to explode in popularity.
And even if they’ve not heard of The Mandalorian, kids are always drawn to the bounty hunters of the Star Wars universe because they look so freaking cool!
This figure reeks of awesomeness. I love all the little battle damage scars and the worn look on the helmet. It’s those smaller details that really make a figure.
In terms of accessories, you get the Mandalorian’s cape, pistol, and rifle.
What’s also great is how much articulation the Black Series manages to pack in. If your child loves to pose their toys, they’re going to love this figure.
Sometimes the Black Series goes above and beyond. This Emperor Palpatine Figure is one of those moments.
Everything about this figure is near perfect.
For a start, there’s three different heads in this set, each of which has some killer detail.
Then there’s the extra hands with Sith lightning effects. And we get a fabric robe rather than a plastic version.
All of that’s before we even get to the throne!
This highly-detailed throne looks like it’s been lifted straight from the films.
Honestly, when the figure and accessories are this good, it makes my job so much easier. If you’ve got a Star Wars fan in the house, this playset is a must.
Trying to find affordable Dragon Ball Z toys isn’t easy. Most of the time you’re looking at upwards of $80 to get the high-end toys.
Thankfully, Bandai remedied this with the release of the Dragon Stars series.
This Gogeta toy marries affordability with quality.
Just take a look at the shading on the chest. Normally toys in this price bracket ditch the extra layer of detail. But with Dragon Stars, the quality is there.
Not only that, these toys aren’t rushed out. They’ve got the face, proportion, and hairstyles all spot-on.
If your child loves Dragon Ball Z, the Dragon Stars range comes very easy to recommend.
It also comes with a solid selection of three interchangeable hands.
And I need to say this very quietly, they’re a lot cheaper than the Figma series of Dragon Ball Z figures and are actually better value for money.
The best thing about this Dragon Ball Z range is they are really great for posing, and you know the saying I just totally made up: If they pose well, that means they’re a keeper.
Not only are they hugely popular with youngsters, there’s also so many of them around that you can get a Pop of almost any character you can think of.
Kids, and adults admittedly, love being able to create a collection to express their interests. My own collection spans video games, movies, tv shows, and even book characters.
In the most shocking twist of the century, it turns out kids make some of the best games for kids. Who knew?
Taco vs Burrito, a game made by a seven year old, first launched via a crowd-funding site, and smashed the original goal into oblivion by 2,400 percent. If that’s not a sign of a good idea I don’t know what is.
The game shares some similarities with Go Fish, only slightly more nefarious.
The goal is to make a meal. Sounds easy, right? Nope! Get a tummy ache card, for example, and you can screw over the other players.
It’s a unique card game that’s sure to result in laughter. It also only takes a few minutes to pick up, and games last around 10-15 minutes, making it the perfect right before bed game.
Jenga is one of those games that will never, ever go out of fashion. Combine it with the biggest video game on the planet and I’d say you’re onto a winner.
Despite being Fortnite-themed, Jenga: Fortnite Edition is still Jenga. You’ll still be battling other players attempting to build up and out without causing the whole thing to come tumbling down (and fighting the urge to curse when that happens).
Although you can play it by just taking it in turns, there is a bunch of player cards and a spinner if you want a more structured round of Jenga.
As for the Fortnite theme on this version, it’s cool. Blocks have been given a Fortnite makeover so they look like materials from the game.
Sure, right, it’s simple, but sometimes simple works really well.
Plus, like, look at that price! Board games are so affordable. It’s great!
Fun fact: In Japan, cuteness can be dictated by how sorry for something you feel. With how useless Magikarp is, people end up loving it.
I’ve seen a few videos of this toy in action and let me tell you, watching it flail around the floor like it does in the games and tv show is going to make you laugh out loud.
Give this little guy a squeeze and it’ll wiggle, jiggle, and flail for 10 seconds at a time.
It’s hard to explain why this is so great if you haven’t seen the tv show. Magikarp is everywhere in the show and even though it’s not real, there’s a bond there. We’ve all had Magikarp moments in our life.
Plus, as I say, it looks so derpy it’s kind of adorable.
The Marvel Legends range of figures are the best Marvel figures available at the moment. And despite this being the 3.75-inch version, they’re still surprisingly robust.
They’re small figures but still manage to pack a punch while retaining the likenesses of the characters.
This set comes with Spider Man, Doctor Octopus, Mysterio, Electro, Kraven, Vulture, and The Sandman. All of the boys, then.
And as a general rule, a child can never have too many Spider-Man figures. That’s the law.
This is stuff dreams are made. Imagine being a kid, collecting Pokemon cards, then opening up AN ENTIRE BOX OF CARDS.
Tell me that isn’t the stuff kids’ dreams are made of.
This Broken Bonds Box is basically what you see on shop floors. You know when you buy single packs of Pokemon cards? This is the box they’re from.
What’s great about this box is it comes factory sealed, which is important. The most hardcore collectors take a – I kid you not! – set of scales around with them to weigh packs to see which ones have rare cards in. Mad, I know!
But because this is sealed, you won’t need to worry about dubious sellers yoinking all the good cards and selling on the regular ones.
Kids love to feel like they’ve outsmarted someone. Believe me, my kids do it all the time. Wait…
This Pokemon Guess game tasks kids with thinking of a Pokemon from the first 251. It’s then up to the talking pokeball to try and guess who the child is thinking of.
It’s all voice-activated so there’s nothing technical for your child to learn, which in a world of advanced-tech toys, is a nice change.
It requires 3 AAA batteries, which in a surprise twist, are included. Woo!
The Pokemon Guess Game is affordable, fun, and perfect for any poke-fan.
Some of my fondest memories from when I was a kid is driving an RC car over a flatland and making it do tricks. Seriously, ask any father and chances are, they’ll have the same story.
But what happens when it rains? That’s where this Amphibious RC Car comes in.
Puddles? They’re nothing to this beast. Rain? Nah, man. It’s waterproof.
I’m pretty sure you could drive this bad boy through a pond and it’d come out the other side (though I wouldn’t recommend doing that!).
What’s also great is it’s totally rechargeable. So there’s none of this annoying needing batteries nonsense.
Plus at this price, there isn’t too much to pick fault with.
Science experiments are a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.
This Crystal Growing Kit ticks all the boxes. It’s cheap, it’s designed to promote inquisitiveness, and unlike one-time-use science kits, this one leaves kids with something to keep.
Let’s get the breakdown of what’s in this kit out the way first, shall we?
The full contents are a USB Powered LED light-up display, micro-USB cable, three growing cups, three crystal power bags, three crystal starters, mixing stick, and tweezers.
And, yes, it comes with a super helpful 12-page instruction manual to help get your child up and running.
What’s great when your crystals are fully-grown, the light-up display means you can keep them in your room and they’re not so bright they’ll keep you awake.
Hey, so what’s the most ridiculous gift idea I can come up with? Behold the Vintage Popcorn Maker!
Look, kids love popcorn. Hell, adults love popcorn! Warm popcorn is the best snack food in the world, but microwavable popcorn always catches and burns in areas. If you want real movie-style popcorn, this is the gift you need in your life.
There’s space for 32 cups of popcorn per batch in this beast and the stainless steel kettle holds eight-ounces of popcorn kernels.
That glass you see on the sides is tempered as well, so there’s no need to worry about it breaking any time soon.
And in a rather neat design twist, there’s space under the main machine to store unused kernels, popcorn oils, seasonings, and any other serving accessories.
Sure, this is a little out there, but c’mon, what kid wouldn’t love being able to make their own popcorn whenever they want?
The price. I know! But Copic Markers are simply the best markers for artists or would-be artists.
The alcohol-based ink dries acid-free for a truly vibrant look. The way they blend to create shading is almost on par with painting – that’s how good they are.
Check out this video by Shrimpy to get an idea of how they blend. It’s well worth your time if Lucious colors are your thing.
Granted they are expensive, but if your child is into drawing, coloring, or just general art, these markers will bring their designs to life.
You cannot beat the thrill of making your own magic, and if you’re after the best of the best, this Melissa And Doug Deluxe Magic Set is just that.
While I haven’t played with this specific set, my youngest had a magic set not so long ago and really got a kick out of showing mom and dad all the new tricks they’ve learned.
This set has all the staples of the magic world you’d hope for, including Disappearing Ball, Magic Coin Box, Secret Silks, Great Escape, Magic Number Prediction, Money Maker, Egyptian Prediction, Vanishing Zone, Cylinder Squeeze, and Vanishing Coin.
What’s more, there’s also a detailed, easy to understand instruction booklet to teach kids how to perform every spell.
And the best part, as a parent, it all comes in a sturdy box, meaning all the tricks can be tidied away easily.
If you’re after something a little different that’s a lot of fun, you won’t go wrong with this one.
You can’t beat the calming rays of this lamp. They’re strangely hypnotic as you watch the jellyfish flibble around inside.
Driven by a whisper-quiet motor, these lamps aren’t going to keep your kids awake at night either.
Lava lamps and their ilk have been known for helping kids to relax, too, so if you’re after something to soothe before bed, this lamp is well worth checking out.
Players start with three walls of a cube, then using the t-shaped brown wooden pieces, need to create an entire cube inside of the walls.
It sounds easy, but in practice, it’s going to take them some time to work out how to fit every piece in without going outside the box.
It’s taxing in just the right way. It’s hard, but not impossible, and every attempt brings them one step closer, teaching them the importance of persevering.
Trying to keep your kids reading isn’t easy. That’s why it’s always important to get them something they’re going to enjoy.
You can’t beat Harry Potter when it comes to accessible reading, and this Harry Potter Boxset has every single book in the series inclosed in a stylish display box.
Given the popularity of Harry Potter, most will likely know what the deal is. For those that don’t, it’s the story of an orphan who gets placed into an abusive household then finds out he’s a wizard and ventures off to attend wizarding school.
Although quite serious at times, the Harry Potter series never becomes too dark. There are moments of darkness, but it’s always undercut by hope or perseverance – great traits to instill in kids.
Pranks are some of the most-watched videos on YouTube right now, so gifts like this Mega Prank Kit are sure to go down a treat.
This kit comes with 35 pranks in total, including the likes of Rattlesnake Eggs, the Whoopee Cushion, Chinese Handcuffs, Shocking Prank Gum, Squirting Toilet Seat, and many more.
There’s a lot here to drive parents insane, which of course is going to go down well with kids. Sure, it’s the most mischievous kind of fun out there, but if it brings them joy, it’s worth it.
For the ultimate Harry Potter fan, there’s this super detailed Replica Elder Wand.
This thing is so freaking realistic. It’s not just the shape and size that’s so vivid, it’s the wooden finish and the honeycomb-like indents. The level of detail is INSANE!
The Elder Wand comes in at 15 inches in length, which makes it a 1:1 scale replica. And it’s officially licensed, meaning this isn’t just some cheap tat that’ll break in a week.
Plus it comes in a rather fetching display box. I do love me a good display box.
Like I say, this really is the ultimate Harry Potter gift. It is stunning!
Gifts like this Mini Claw Grabber may seem random, but they’re a really great idea.
For a start, you could use this as a reward machine. If your child does their homework or chores, they get to win a piece of candy from the machine. Great incentive or what?
You don’t have to fill them with candy either. Grab some small plushies or even Pokemon cards – anything small enough for the grabber to grab and you’re onto a winner.
This grabber is just like the real, full-sized version, too, complete with lights and music.
Sure, this is a random gift, but the potential to use it as a force for a good is near endless.
If you’re looking to keep your child interested in drawing into teenagehood, gifts like this Art Craft Table are integral.
So, what comes in this set? The most important element here is the drawing table. Having the right angles makes working easier.
But that’s not all. You also get a rather handy three-drawer cabinet to store all their supplies in and a padded stool. It’s got everything your child needs, essentially.
This thing is built from heavy-gauge steel, too, meaning it’s nice and sturdy.
If you’re after something that’ll entice their artistic flair, you won’t go wrong with this craft table.
Every household should have at least one copy of Monopoly. It’s the best! Nothing beats the cutthroat, hilarious nature of screwing over family members.
Rather than the boring real-world locations seen in the regular Monopoly, all the places in this version are themed around locations from Rick and Morty.
Tokens for this edition include the likes of a Council of Ricks Badge, Meeseeks Box, Portal Gun, Plumbus, Rick’s Car, and Snuffles’ Helmet. Cool!
One thing I should note, Rick and Morty isn’t aimed at kids. But hey, I won’t judge. I watched the Child’s Play movies when I was eight, so you know, glasshouses and all that. If you feel it’s fine, I’m not gonna tell you how to parent.
They don’t come any more tried and tested than the Simon Game.
If you’ve never played it before, the game lights up a section, then you have to mimic it. For each one you get right, another color is added to the chain.
The goal is to see how many colors you can remember in a row.
It’s so simple yet increasingly moreish. Kids love putting their brains to the test in fun ways, and given how easy to pick up this game is, anyone can play it.
And don’t worry, it’s shatter-resistant, so when they do slam dunk, it won’t smash into a million and one pieces.
Plus anything that promotes exercise is a win. After all, an active kid is a happy kid, and we know how hard it is to keep kids interested in exercise as they inch closer to teenagehood.
Believe me, once their age ends in a ‘teen’, getting them to stay fit is going to be harder, so it’s best to keep them interested while they’re young.
Having more storage options is always a good idea, and gifts like this Sauder Pogo Bookcase Footboard are a great way to add storage without the need for bulky cabinets.
This large storage cabinet comes with two drawers and two bookshelf areas. It’s the perfect size for storing toys or books and would easily fit at the of a bed if need be.
It’s also pretty stylish, too. Just, you know, ignore the baby toys in it. They really make it look more childish than it actually is.
Recommended Ages: Not Stated
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