RC toys are WAY better now than they were when I was a kid. They are more responsive, cooler looking and all terrain. But nothing I have played with has beat the Tyco Terra Climber Radio Control Vehicle for looks or terrain abilities.
Unboxing the Terra Climber was a bit of a work out. I had mine sent frustration free but I still broke a sweat getting it out of the box. This is more because of the size and the mechanics of the unit than it is anything else though. Once I had it unboxed I had to place the tail piece on the main unit by snapping it in place. The RC unit looks like some sort of hybrid, scary looking lizard with big, rubberized claws. It has to be charged before playtime can begin using the included wall charger.
The Playtime Experience
After I had charged the removable battery I had to remove two screws from the bottom of the Terra Climber RC unit. Then I was able to connect the battery and replace the battery compartment cover. The remote came with 2 AA batteries already installed. Both the remote and the RC unit have on/off switches for conserving battery life and once they are both on they connect easily.
Operating the Tyco Terra Climber Radio Control Vehicle was fairly easy to master. I didn’t expect it to be as powerful as it was however! The wheels are made in a claw-like fashion and are rubberized for a great grip on any surface. The wheels are also placed on opposing ends of arms that move 360 degrees around the main unit. This allows the unit the ability to climb any surface, even stairs!
I wouldn’t recommend using it near water or snow however. The battery compartment is vented and water could easily end up inside and corrode the connecting pieces between the battery and the main unit.
Things I Liked
I couldn’t believe the power of this unit. I was really impressed because there was nothing it couldn’t climb with ease. It is the real deal and I was impressed by the quality here.
Things I Didn't Like
I understand that the battery could overheat so it is necessary to vent the battery compartment somehow. However, I really wish it had been designed differently. The all-terrain abilities and the power of this RC unit makes you want to take it outside. But outside has the potential for water exposure and that makes me nervous with this toy.
Appropriate Ages
It is recommended that Terra Climber drivers be over the age of 8. I think this is appropriate because it is much more powerful than your standard RC unit so the driver should have the ability and understanding to control it.
Final Note
I was super impressed with the Tyco Terra Climber Radio Control Vehicle during my play time with it. The articulating arms and rubberize claw-wheels give this thing a unique look and a unique way of moving. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommended it or gift it to a friend. This is a very cool looking RC toy that beats all other is stair climbing ability.