Activities & Construction Activision, Crayola Bring Skylanders to Life with Color Alive
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ctivision and Crayola have partnered to launch an augmented reality product featuring Skylanders that allows kids to bring their coloring book pages to life using the Color Alive! app. Kids aim their device’s camera at the colored page to bring their unique Skylanders drawings to life, while the included Magic Crayon activates special effects. Kids can then interact with the coloring book characters, and even take photos with them. The Color Alive! app is available on iOS, Android, and Windows smartphones and tablets. Activision and Crayola will also partner up this Easter for a special coloring edition of the Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack. Kids can color in the black and white packaging, and then watch the characters come to life on their smartphone or tablet devices using Crayola’s Color Alive! app. The limited-edition Starter Pack will include crayons and will be available exclusively at Toys “R” Us.
Spin Master Builds Up Construction Lines
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pin Master expands its Meccano line with new model sets intended for kids ages 8 and up. The space-themed 15 Models Set—Space Quest features 230 parts and builds 15 models, with designs inspired by intergalactic travel, while the 20 Models Set— Desert Adventure includes more than 270 parts, and builds 20 different models ranging from Desert Buggy to Chase Helicopter. The 25 Motorized Models Set—Mountain Rally includes more than 300 parts and builds 25 models, which kids can bring to life with the included 3V motor. Kids can rebuild the kit into a variety of vehicles and machines. New additions to the Signature Series include the Eiffel Tower, which features more than 1,500 parts for building two models. The Meccano version of the iconic French landmark incorporates lights and electronics for a programmable light show. Aspiring space pioneers can fly to the Knits Cool Knitting Studio edge of the atmosphere and beyond with the Virgin Galactic Whiteknight Two, which has a programmable LED light show and authentic rocket sounds. With the Meccano Crane set, kids can build a motorized working crane featuring three motors for lift and rotation, along with lights and sound. The kit includes more than 1,900 parts. This fall, Spin Master will also debut new crafting kits designed for kids ages 6 and up, which let them create their own bracelets, chocolates, and more. The Text Cool Bracelet Studio comes with 34 bracelet bands, one letter and one emoticon wheel, rollers, and clasps for creating custom message bracelets. The kit also comes with its own storage accessory. With the Cool Baker Chocolate Maker, kids can make cute 3-D chocolate shapes without having to use a stove or a microwave. Each kit includes the chocolate maker, as well as molds, tools, and even baggies and gift tags for sharing. Kids can create their own headbands, infinity scarves, and phone pouches with the Knits Cool Knitting Studio. Along with three pairs of knit posts and 60 yards of yarn, the kit includes one sewing needle, decorative buttons and charms, and accessory storage. Girls can create a threadless, 36- by 28-inch quilt using the Sew Cool Cozy Quilt Kit, which includes 12 pre-cut squares, quilt borders and backing, and six button sets.
132 • THE TOY BOOK
FEBRUARY 2015