[TxBart]

When I wander down the Preschool/Baby toy Aisle, I see some very large & intricate items (see the playstations and bouncers, or plastic play kitchens and such). These things, I am estimating, contain the same amount of Plastic as the U.S.S. Flagg. Yet for the most part, they cost less than $100. I sometimes wonder if the toy lines with adult collectors are subsidising the baby and toddler toys, but I digress.

I don't think that any 8-12 Y.O. Kid would Balk if they received for Christmas, the B.A. Millenium Falcon, or Defiant Shuttle Complex, even if they had only a passing interest in the line. Obviously Big Items still sell, since the retailers are still ordering them.

Nowadays, I think what ever the big item is it has to include the necessary WOW factor to get it off the retailer's shelf, the equaly necessary play features to keep it from being returned to the retailer's shelf (& excite the child's friends so that they will want one too), & include some utility either through organization or stowability.