Mega Brands Magnext iCoaster (New 2008 Model)

Seven stunt pieces add drama to each iCoaster ride. View larger.

A magnetic elevator takes metal rider balls back to the top of the coaster. View larger.

What We Think Fun Factor: Durability: (what this means) The Good: Track can be reconfigured for long-lasting fun The Bad: Small parts may get lost In a Nutshell: The iCoaster is a unique building set for action-loving kids. At a Glance Ages: 6 and up Requires: Four C batteries

Once a coaster has been constructed, five 15-millimeter magnetic rider balls act as cars, zipping around the track, providing a serious adrenaline rush. Before the action starts, an adult will need to use a Philips head screwdriver to install four "C" batteries, which power the lights, sounds and cool magnetic elevator.

Lights, Music and Speed
Stunts that can be incorporated into the track include a bounce jump, vertical loop and magnetic slide. One of our favorite features was the sleek, magnetic elevator that transported each metal ball back to the top of the iCoaster at the end of a ride. Two flashing lights can be placed in any tower to complement the neon track pieces and add visual interest every time a ball goes whizzing by.

The plug & play control box features 10 music backgrounds, 10 sensor beats/sound effects, and a jack where you can plug your iPod or other MP3 player in and customize the sounds behind your roller coaster. You need to provide your own connector cable and music player to take advantage of this feature.

Durable and Educational Design
The plastic pieces seemed quite durable, and they snapped apart just as easily as they snapped together. Our only concern about the iCoaster was the potential for losing or damaging small connector pieces, but even these held up well in our construction and reconstruction of the track.

It's easy to see why the previous iCoaster was recognized by The National Parenting Center and Parents Magazine as an incredible building toy. This version retains all the great qualities of its predecessor and is bigger, stronger and faster.

The construction oriented iCoaster encourages kids to build with determination, helping enhance their ability to focus and their fine-motor skills. It also promotes understanding of magnetism, inspires creativity and helps kids develop problem-solving skills, adding an innovative dimension to play.

What's in the Box
Magnetic elevator, 10 towers, 10 tower bases, 11 track pieces, 7 stunt pieces, 17 connector pieces, 2 light-up sensors, plug & play control box with speaker, 5 15-millimeter magnetic metallic rider balls, and illustrated instruction booklet.