GeoSmart Mars Explorer STEM-Focused 51-Piece GeoMagnetic Vehicle Building Set

Turns out you CAN operate two separate motors/remote controllers simultaneously. So you and your kid can build and race. At least true with the Mars and Moonlander kits.Have had the ML for seven months and thus far nothing broken, though I have emphasized not to use too much force when separating pieces. So yes quite sturdy. Nice to have other shapes from the Mars kit. We’ve been running EBL rechargeable batteries without issues. Great gift idea for a five year old, with a good value for the money.

The grand kids really like these toys from 'GeoSmart'. This 'Mars Explorer' is the 3rd. of the group I've gotten them: first was the 'GeoSphere' which is the entry level toy with a variety of shapes, then the 'LunaRover' that came with wheels, and the "Mars Explorer" with it's tracked wheels, a motor and remote control.These are the first toys the kids choose to play with as the variety of different magnetic shapes provided are challenging and rewarding. And what's capable of being put together seems endless. What's especially nice is the kids - my 5 year old grandson and his 8 year old sister - will spend a lot of time, together, building with GeoSmart as there are enough pieces for both to enjoy.

Their pieces are clean, sturdy, bright, and the magnets are amazing.Geosmart sets: Kids don't necessarily have to align the pieces in perfect positions - the magnets do that for them!It's crazy what they charge for them though!!! Considering what's out there - they're very pricey but the pieces are much better than other brands --- 4 stars instead of 5...

We love the geosmart series. My 4 year old likes to build the models shown on the box, but he also invents all kinds of new contraptions and comes up with long explanations about what they do. This was the toy he most looked forward to for Christmas! We also got a set for my nephew and he was able to mix in with a set of magformers to make larger robots.

The first mars explorer we received had a broken motor. The replacement barely moves an inch even on hardwood floors with brand new batteries. Very disappointed in this purchase.

We had an issue with the motor. There was no number to call, but someone called us back from the online forms we filled and sent us a replacement. We got to keep the original so more magnets for all! My 3 and 5 year old spend HOURS building things with these. We are VERY pleased with the purchase and customer support.

Can’t wait to give to my six year old grandson

When our Grandson visits us I always try to have something new for him to play with. Of course he still plays with the previous items we keep stored, but because he can be a very focused child it's good to change it up. He is 7 almost 8 and has been putting together large Lego sets since about 5 years old. He prefers to do this on his own with the instructions and this set to him was no different. When he opened it up he decided on which vehicle to build first (there are instructions for 4) and went about it. It did take him a few minutes to get the idea and function of connecting the pieces, but once he did he was quick to finish. We did help him with the batteries, but beyond that it was all on his own and he continued to "tear down" and rebuild until he had built them all. Of course then he moved on to designing his own which wasn't as easy, but most definitely more exciting in his eyes.Overall this is a really great STEM "toy" that is perfect for a wide age group and the additional sets available when combined will allow children to take their own designs further. My only reason for not giving this 5 stars is the price. I understand that the quality and value may be there, but unfortunately it prices out many who cannot afford these , but who could definitely benefit from them also.