Don't Leap for Leapster, Go for MobiGo2: Toy Pick 2012

Wow Mom! Wednesdays - Holiday Edition:

IPad. Nintendo DS. Leapster. Leapster Explorer. MobiGo.

Yes. There are a lot of handheld gaming devices out there. And for a mom just stepping out of todd’s time with simple toys that made sounds and had lights, I’m now having to consider what can teach my kid along with what cartridges go with what. And after much research and testing (my four-year old really had to take one for the team), the new VTech MobiGo 2 is one of the best options around - especially for the preschool/early elementary set.

The new MobiGo 2 is a educational handheld system that allows kids to enjoy on-the-go play and hone their creativity all while learning basic skills such as math, vocabulary, spelling, reading, logic, drawing and more.  Of course, like all the others you can buy several of your kid’s favorite characters and shows like Thomas the Tank Engine, Jack and the Neverland Pirates, and Disney Princesses to play in addition to the fun already installed programs.

Sound like a lot like a Leapster? In some ways they do the same things and even look a lot alike. If you really want to take compare them, you can see the side-by-side. The price of all the accessories will stand out most of all, as well as, the upgraded MobiGo system’s features – the photo viewing! This baby allows you to import your own photos, tag your photos, create mic-activated fun photo effects and set photos as wallpaper. However, there is a lot more cool stuff where that came from.

Toy Features

• Two NEW ways to play: MobiGo 2 comes equipped with a NEW motion sensor and microphone in addition to the touchscreen:
• The NEW motion sensor provides total game control, allowing kids to create action movements within games and programs while playing
• The NEW microphone provides different methods of game play. Blow into the microphone to move objects, blow off dust, or initiate other special effects. Or speak into it to give a command or trigger an action 
• QWERTY keyboard helps kids become familiar with a keyboard layout
• Pre-loaded with FREE games: MobiGo 2 also functions as an e-reader, photo album, photo viewer and art studio and coloring book, and comes pre-loaded with three great games that take advantage of the product’s many features
• Numerous apps for download: The expanded onboard memory allows kids to store more fun. More than 80 other apps are available for download at the VTech Learning Lodge Navigator™ at www.VTechKids.com/Download.  

Overall: The VTech MobiGo 2 allows you to combine that durable first camera, teaching assistant and your kid’s game device into one product for a reasonable price.

MobiGo 2 from Vtech

Designed for 3-8 years old boys and girls (comes in multicolor and pink)

Available for around $59.99 at Target, Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and other major retailers, and online at www.vtechkids.com and www.amazon.com.

DISCLAIMER:

I received one or more of the mentioned products for the sole purpose of this review. No other compensating was given and all opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. (Accordance with FTC's 16 CFR Part 255, "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")