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Bakugan Battle Brawlers

Spinmaster, recommended ages 5+, MSRP $15.99USD

Bakugan Battle Brawlers are here!

"Answer the call to brawl" is the challenge as kids must decide the fate of the galaxy with magnetic marbles that pop open to reveal ....powerful Bakugan warrior action figures!

A hot new strategic game spawned by the popular anime TV series "Bakugan Battle Brawlers", it incudes a variety of Bakugan warriors like Juggernoids, Fear Rippers, and Robatallians which must do batle against each other for points.

Kids ages 4 and up seem to enjoy rolling or shooting their Bakugan onto magnetic cards, where the plastic spheres burst open to reveal the fearsome warrior apparatus inside.

Kids and fans of the show also get a kick out of the way the Bakugan transform suddenly into warrior mode. The mission of Bakugan game play is to battle against other Bakugan to win the points awarded on the cards provided.

The Bakugan Starter Pack includes a random selection of three Bakugan warriors, three metal cards and illustrated, easy to follow, instructions. Although the game is reasonably uncomplicated, you might have to give younger kids a hand with reading and understanding the rules.

The Bakugan come in lots of colors and varieties that make them fun to collect and trade. Most of them are pocket-sized and easy for your child to carry around and bring over to their friend's houses. There are many accessories beyond the starter pack and Bakugan brawlers themselves range in size and price.

The hot new addition to the game is the Battle Arena, which provides an even playing field as opposed to the books around the edge of the table. We have not yet played with this so that review is yet to come.

While not big fans of battle games or anime, this was a big hit with the kids. The crew loves them and everyone enjoyed the way the marbles pop open on the magnetic cards. Funny thing is most of them never watch the show. Go figure....

The game does encourage:

• strategic thinking
• hand eye coordination
• communication skills
• small motor skills
• reinforces fair play
• little bit of science

Please make note that as cool as they are, Bakugan Battle Brawlers have many small parts and small magnets, and can be dangerous for young children. I would recommend adhering to the age guidelines and, as always, if possible - play with the kids!

About the Author: Mary Rose is a Mommy, a writer and an early childhood educator who believes in learning through play and the value of good toys.