Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
Which Imaginext toys are best?
For more than 90 years, Fisher-Price has made educational and entertaining toys for kids, including action figures and interactive toys that stimulate the mind and foster curious play. Imaginext is a line from Fisher-Price of interactive, action-oriented toys that are part of an interconnected world, allowing each product within a series to fit in with others. Some options, such as the excellent DC Super Friends Batman Toy with Transforming Bat-Tank, are modeled after pop-culture characters, while others are more straightforward.
What to know before you buy Imaginext toys
Age range
While Fisher-Price toys are designed for kids of all ages, the Imaginext line has a more specific focus. The simplest options are geared for those as young as 3 while some larger, more advanced toys appeal to those around 7 or 8. Imaginext does not make toys for those ages 10 and up.
Themes
Some Imaginext toys are inspired by specific films, shows or comic books. One of the most popular themes is Batman, with toys inspired by the Caped Crusader and the interconnected DC Comics universe he is a part of. While Batman has a darker tone in some stories, the Batman and others in this line of toys are lighter and more colorful. Other characters from the DC Comics here include Wonder Woman, Superman and Aquaman.
Other toys are inspired by similarly popular content that appeals to youngsters, with products drawn from “Jurassic World,” “Toy Story,” “Sponegbob Squarpants,” “Scooby-Doo” and “Minions.” Imaginext does not offer toys featuring Marvel characters.
Imaginext toys can be divided into two main types.
- Action figures.These feature points of articulation and typically come with accessories for imaginative playtime.
- Playsets.These are more interactive and involved, featuring scenes or environments along with figures and other accessories for more immersive play.
What to look for in quality Imaginext toys
Color
Imaginext toys boast colorful finishes and eye-catching designs that appeal to younger children. Most toys boast bright shades to engage young ones and keep their attention. Even Batman, who traditionally wears a black and gray costume, is offered in various colorful outfits.
Imaginext offers some sizable toys that will stand up to regular play while inspiring awe and creative use. While there are some smaller action figures, there are plenty of options that stand over a foot tall or a foot wide and foster an engaging playtime.
Action figure packs
For kids who like superheroes — as well as supervillains — Imaginext offers a variety of action figure packs featuring from four to 10 characters. As there are so many DC heroes and villains from which to choose, these packs are varied and tend to balance popular figures such as Batman or the Joker with lesser-knowns like Hawkman or Deathstroke. In some cases, the same character will be presented in different costumes for a colorful variety of action figures.
How much you can expect to spend on Imaginext toys
Price is influenced based on the toy’s size and versatility. Simple action figures and toys are available for under $30, while more elaborate playsets and interactive figures may cost up to and over $50.
Imaginext toys FAQ
Are Imaginext toys educational?
A.Imaginext toys offer some educational value. Interactive elements welcome creative and imaginative play, especially with sets focused on superheroes, dinosaurs and exploration. Toys also help develop fine motor skills, including coordination and dexterity in younger children. Kids may learn to enjoy sharing and playing with others while also feeling confident with solo play. Lastly, youngsters may embrace a sense of responsibility and desire to take care of their toys.
Does Imaginext offer any generic toys or playsets?
A.There are a handful of toys that aren’t directly inspired by a film franchise, TV show or comic book series. These more generic themes still offer imaginative play, with options that involve pirate adventures and underwater exploration with sharks. While there are “Jurassic World”toys, children don’t need to have seen the movies to embrace the dinosaur involved (as the films are rated PG-13, most young kids will not have seen them anyway).
What are the best Imaginext toys to buy?
Top Imaginext toy
What you need to know:This Batman toy offers endless interactive play and exciting imaginative adventures.
What you’ll love: Batman action figure comes with a Bat-Tank that can be transformed into “battle mode” with the press of a button. The tank features lights and sounds and can shoot projectiles at Batman’s enemies.
What you should consider:Some parents may not appreciate the sounds.
Top Imaginext toy for money
What you need to know:This collection of three durable and colorful action figures inspired by DC Comics allows for fun adventures and creative play.
What you’ll love: The price gives solid value for a set of three characters including Batman, Superman and The Joker. Each character comes with a vehicle and a launcher for racing fun.
What you should consider:A few reports that the wheels make a squeaking noise.
Worth checking out
What you need to know:Inspired by the the movie “Jurassic World Rebirth,” this playset features a variety of fun, interactive elements.
What you’ll love:The playset comes with an 18-inch-long dinosaur with working jaws and realistic sound effects. It also includes an action figure with a patrol boat for him to ride in, plus a launcher and two projectiles. It comes with batteries, so it’s ready to go right out of the box.
What you should consider:Some users felt the sound effects were too loud.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
