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The humble spinning-top (the precursor of the i-Top) has been a children's favourite for literally thousands of years, with variations on the theme first appearing around 2000 BC. So it is of no surprise that this well-loved toy has now entered the digital age with the introduction of the i-Top, a modern take on this classic plaything. At first glance the i-Top looks much like a slightly futuristic but otherwise normal spinning top, with just the addition of two buttons and a row of eight tiny red lights on the top surface hinting at anything unusual. What makes the i-Top special is that it doesn't just spin--it plays games. These are all based on how long or how fast you can spin the top, with scores magically displayed on its surface as it spins, using the lights mentioned above. A clever folding spindle transforms the product into a slim disc, perfect for slipping into a pocket
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and making this a game that kids can amuse themselves with wherever they go. Put like this, the product sounds very simple but tests showed that the i-Top's simplicity is actually its biggest strength, making it hugely addictive for children and adults alike. It is great fun to play and is certain to bring out a competitive streak in even the most placid of individuals. The games played by the i-Top (how many times can you get the top to spin before it falls; how fast can you get it to spin and how close can you get to a random number of spins displayed by the i-Top) are easy to get the hang of and perfect for individual play as well as competitive gaming among friends. There's also a "Mystic Mode" that lets you ask the i-Top a question: "Will I beat my son's best i-Top score?" and get a simple answer: "Not likely!" much like an electronic magic 8 ball. --Adi Himpson
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Friday, September 5, 2008
