Looking back at 2025, it’s been a standout year for products that blur the line between plaything, collectible, and conversation piece. From lovingly crafted retro hardware and modernised racing toys to nostalgic handhelds and display-worthy builds, this year’s highlights share a common thread: they invite curiosity, spark joy, and reward time well spent. Whether you’re shopping for a lifelong gamer, a hands-on tinkerer, or someone who simply appreciates smart, playful design, these Press Play favorites represent some of the most exciting and gift-worthy releases the year had to offer. Continue reading “Best of 2025 – Gift Ideas”
Category: Toys
Carrera Hybrid Devil Drivers review
The Carrera Hybrid Devil Drivers set delivers a bold reimagining of the classic toy racetrack, merging physical hardware with app-driven digital control to create an experience that feels both familiar and strikingly modern. Unlike traditional slot cars that cling to metal rails with controllers in hand, the Hybrid system embraces free-roaming 1:50-scale Porsche 911 GT3 R models that respond to intuitive smartphone or tablet controls via Bluetooth, inviting players to race off-track and execute real overtaking moves. This conceptual evolution marks a definitive shift in how toy racing can engage both nostalgia and the expectations of contemporary (video) gamers. Continue reading “Carrera Hybrid Devil Drivers review”
LEGO Minecraft: The Creeper review
LEGO’s 2025 release, The Creeper, is a standout entry in the Minecraft line – one that blurs the boundary between toy and display piece. With a total of 665 bricks and a finished height of just over 21 cm, this set clearly targets fans who appreciate the blocky, pixelated aesthetic more than traditional play-set dynamics. Given that the video game remains hugely popular and the recent movie adaptation continues to draw attention, this Creeper lands at a clever intersection of gaming nostalgia and physical collectible culture, making for a great holiday gift idea at an affordable price point. Continue reading “LEGO Minecraft: The Creeper review”
New and affordable LEGO sets for the gift-giving season
LEGO continues to impress with its ability to cater to a broad range of interests, and some of its latest releases make fantastic gift ideas for different age groups and preferences while not breaking the bank. Whether you’re shopping for a young gamer, a fan of Sonic the Hedgehog, or someone who appreciates creative decor, these three sets – Bowser’s Muscle Car Expansion Set, Shadow the Hedgehog Escape, and Chrysanthemum – offer something special for everyone. Continue reading “New and affordable LEGO sets for the gift-giving season”
EscapeWelt – iQube Duel review
Escapewelt’s iQube Duel takes the company’s signature puzzle boxes and introduces a fresh, competitive twist, aiming to bring friends and family together for some friendly rivalry. Unlike previous puzzle boxes, such as Blackbeard’s Compass or Force of Elements (both of which had a single-player focus), this new release encourages multiplayer engagement with its two different puzzle designs. Each set includes two cubes that can be tackled individually or in direct competition, making this one of Escapewelt’s more social products. It’s in its Kickstarter phase right now and we’ve already played them, so let’s take a closer look. Continue reading “EscapeWelt – iQube Duel review”
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