Bop It Extreme 2 Review

The original Bop It was brought it out in 1996 and apparently I played on my friend's Bop It many times over my teenage years. I don't recall this at all - although being remarkably uncoordinated I may have blocked out the embarrassment. Bop It Extreme 2 is a much more modern and sophisticated version, so how does it compare to the original classic that I somehow have no recollection of?

What is the Bop It Extreme 2?

The Bop It Extreme 2 is a noisy, infuriating but woefully addictive game for one or more players. There are five actions - spin it, twist it, pull it, flick it and, of course, bop it. A sound effect representing the action or a voice barking commands will play, (depending whether you choose Vox Bop or Beat Bop mode), and you need to follow the instruction instantly. The longer you can go without messing up, the faster the beat becomes and the quicker you will need to respond.

There is also a 'pass it mode' for two or more players, which is the same as single player mode except every now and then an electronic voice shouts "pass it" and the nearest person has to take over (great for parties). Naturally, the loser is the one who messes up when it comes to their turn (nearly always me in the Toy Reviewer household).

Is it good?

Yes, absolutely. It is a really simple but effective idea for a game and is equally good whether you are playing alone, as a family activity or with friends. I believe the guide age is 8 and up but Tiny Toy Reviewer #1 has been able to use it since he was 5 years old. Adults will enjoy it too, (the Bop It Extreme 2 was actually a gift someone gave Mr Toy Reviewer).

It really brings out the competitiveness in even the most laid back person, whether they are trying to beat someone else's highscore or their own personal best. Even though the game is so straightforward, it isn't necessarily easy as the better you do the more under pressure you become, and the easier it is to get flustered and end up pulling it when you were supposed to be flicking it. From an educational point of view it is good for building dexterity and coordination, and for encouraging younger children to follow instructions.

Are there any negatives?

When the batteries run out you can kiss your highscore goodbye, which is a pity. I'd like to say it's the kids it upsets but actually I think it's Mr Toy Reviewer it really bothers.

With younger players, it takes a bit of practise to get the 'bop it' action right. You do have to hit it with some force otherwise it won't always register it, which can be a bit frustrating for little ones.

Verdict

A worthwhile addition to any household, regardless of ages. It would make an especially good stocking filler at Christmas since the Bop It Extreme 2 makes a great family activity, although you may want to bring it out after the Christmas meal if you don't want the host to burn dinner while trying to beat the highscore.