Each year, a jury of professionals awards the Toy Grand Prix, which has been awarded, for 2024, to the Gecko from Spin Master. Here’s what we thought about it.
This year, the star toy of Christmas is none other than a gecko, this funny little reptile native to Asia, which we find increasingly close to home, particularly on the Mediterranean coast. The toy manufacturer Spin Master opted for this unusual animal to attract young children at Christmas, and it is already shaping up to be a real success. Because in 2024, the radio-controlled Gecko is voted “toy of the year” and also wins a grand prize in the radio-controlled toys category. So many rewards that arouse our curiosity. We tested it with young children, and here’s what we think.
If you are looking for an original gift idea to put under the tree, this innovative toy will undoubtedly make children’s eyes shine. Because what pleases above all: it’s this “never seen before” side! A radio-controlled lizard instead of a car… Yes, but this one, in addition to crawling, climbs walls! And that amazes everyone. Our little two-year-old boy started by saying “is afraid“, before asking for the joystick to make it move forward and turn in all directions. Once tamed, it continues to want to manipulate it (but still keeping its distance). But this toy is more suitable for children from age 4 years.
So we had Arthur, aged 6, try it, who was immediately captivated, and for a long time: “it’s so good!”, he told us. The movements are realistic and the eyes light up red (this too can scare the little ones) but that’s also what Arthur likes.
Children can also control the gecko with a range of 8 meters. To operate it you will need two LR03 batteries for the remote control, turning the gecko button to the middle position to make it crawl. If you want to see him climb walls, press this same button to the right (located on his stomach). Thanks to a suction system, the animal sticks vertically… But be careful, if you do not dodge the frames hung on the wall in time, or if it hits its head on the ceiling, your gecko risks to fall backwards. A game that therefore helps develop children’s motor skills and concentration.
Another good point: its price! At 30 euros (29.99 euros), offering the “best toy of the year” has an effect for the Christmas holidays. An ideal game that changes from the ordinary, creates a surprise and will amaze the whole family.
On the other hand, it is particularly noisy according to most adults who cross the gecko’s path! Especially when you try to make it climb the walls: it’s difficult to discuss anything else, the gecko attracts all the attention… And it feels good when it stops (unless the child can play with it in his room). Finally, also remember to recharge the animal regularly (climbing on the wall exhausts it and the battery too).
