Toys

Playmobil Research Submarine

PRODUCT: Playmobil Research Submarine (www.playmobil.com)

DESCRIPTION: One in a range of Playmobil playsets featuring a submarine which can be used in water, including waterproof cabin, underwater motor, hand pump, two grabber arms and two play figures. Suitable for children aged 4 years upwards.

GOOD POINTS: This is probably one of the most exciting and advanced bath toys we've seen. It consists of a sturdy and nicely detailed submarine body, with a transparent cabin (with opening door) for the play figures to be inserted into.

The toy comes with a number of separate parts which will need to be assembled prior to use. This is easy to do by simply following the diagrammed instructions provided.

A real motor is included, with a rudder for steering, which is powered by one AA battery (not included). A screwdriver will be required for accessing the battery compartment. The motor can be turned on or off by manually rotating the battery casing. Grabbing arms attach to the front of the submarine which have working pincers for grabbing underwater samples!

The toy is an actual working submarine which will dive in water and resurface using the included manual control device. This allows air to be expelled or pumped in depending on whether you want the submarine to sink or float.

The Research Submarine certainly excels as a bath toy, but also demonstrates some basic concepts of density and buoyancy, as well as how submarines work in real life. In our opinion, this is a fantastic product with a great design and detailed finish, which would make an ideal gift for any budding engineer!

BAD POINTS: None, other than batteries are not included - these will need to be replaced more frequently with heavy use.

PRICE: £24.99