Topobo has finally hit the market

For all those with a bad memory, Topobo was a construction toy created by Hayes Raffle, Amanda Parkes, Hiroshi Ishii, and others at the MIT Media Lab, which could be programmed to move in any way, without a computer, thanks to a set of special kinetic memory motors. A great concept, after completing your creation all you had to do is move its limbs or other body parts any way you'd like, and those movements would be automatically remembered and reproduced, bringing your creation to life. Amazing isn't it? No batteries, no charging, and it would still perform really well! And guess what? These amazing toys will finally be available to consumers, as the company has managed to produce a limited number of these sets. An amazing way to wean your child of those computer-operated gizmos and involve him in some constructive activities, this toy is just great.

The basic 100 pieces Experimenter Set, which includes 2 motors or 'actives', will set you back $499, while the 1,000 piece Classroom Set which includes 24 actives is $4,999. These limited sets are available exclusively from the Topobo website, so better hurry up guys.

[Ohgizmo]