RockIt Twist, Rotatable Learning Game System
© 2019 LeapFrog
This is a durable, sandwich sized, rotatable standalone game system. Content includes 12 pre-loaded games which provide playful exposure to early math, reading and logic skills. RockIt is ready to go right out of the box -- you don't even need AA batteries -- a first for this category of devices. We were pleased to see the built-in rechargeable batteries, but be sure to retrieve the packaged USB cable as you will need it to charge the batteries, as well as to install additional content if you choose to purchase the $8 add-on game packs. Battery life is solid -- easily supporting our four hours of testing. If more than one child wants to use the device, there are two available profiles to save progress, and a third guest profile available for temporary play sessions with friends. On the other hand, even with the system’s bevy of buttons, it does a fantastic job clueing in children when to use what. Each control is equipped with colored lights which help guide them on what controls work for the current game. Alongside such helpful visual guides are female and male announcers who provide explanation for every menu screen and game objective, well-intentioned but occasionally to a point of dissonance. Many of these messages can thankfully be skipped. RockIt Twist is a big step forward for this type of handheld, its strong features certainly outweighed our critiques and we hope to see LeapFrog continue innovating their products further in this direction.
$608, Smart Toy
Teaches: math, reading, logic, creativity, art, music, fine motor
CTR Rating: 88%