Sphero BB-8 & Forceband
(Sphero $80-200)
Last year’s must-have toy just took a spin for the better, really. Last year it was controlled by your smart phone. Forget that. Now with a matte finish and some battle scars, the new special edition BB-8 runs on hand signals. Of course, you’ll need the Force Band, a device you wear on your wrist. To drive the ball forward you push your hand forward, lift your hand it will go faster, lower your hand to make it go slower, and wave your hand toward you tell it to reverse. Want the bot to go left of right? Just point that way. Each and every motion is orchestrated with beeps and amusing sound effects. Purchase the Force Band ($80) separately or in a bundle with the special edition BB-8 ($200) The Force Band will work with a BB-8 if it has Bluetooth LE connectivity: The SPRK, the Ollie, and the classic BB-8 bot are all compatible. Your Force Band charge will last for about 60 to 90 minutes.
Ages: Tweens, Teens
Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2016
