Action Figure Reviews

We've heard the Cubix line of collectible robots described as a cross between Pokémon and the interactive pet phenomenon and that seems fairly apt. Cubix are trainable little talking androids who get much of their moxie from little electronic cards that can be scanned to give the bots more power and skills (one card is included). Scan in cards from other Cubix characters to increase the skills and intelligence of the robot. DonDon is very much in touch with his emotions, and you can get in touch with them by pressing the button on his chest. Also, his tail wags, his ears wiggle, and his shoes are removable. While kids familiar with Cubix will know exactly what to do with him, it could be confusing for others because the instructions for programming the figures are fairly vague. Also, although these little robots are cute as anything, they are loud and there is no volume setting. Still, parents and kids alike will appreciate the value of a toy that actually learns and acts pretty darn cute doing it. --John Moe

A basic low-tech plastic plane might seem a bit out of character for Batman, given the caped crusader's long-standing and well-documented penchant for gadgetry. But this vehicle still delivers features you like to see in a Bat Plane. It has two spring-loaded missiles, a clamp for nabbing bad guys (at least the kind of bad guys who somehow don't hear a Bat Plane approaching from behind), and a cockpit that opens. Into said cockpit goes Batman himself, here done up in a bluish bodysuit and wearing a black cape with silver lining. While one might wish for some sirens or flashing lights on the Bat Plane, this version never needs batteries and is likely to be a lot more durable than something electronic. --Charlie Williams