PRELUDE TOY TIME DECEMBER 2005

The latest gadgets, events, hotels, fine dining and travel news.

The season’s hottest playthings.

V.Smile Pocket

Vtech

This portable addition to the V.Smile range makes learning fun with the help of stars like Dora the Explorer, Spongebob, Batman, Barney and Cinderella. Additional Smartridges cost $19.99. $89.99 www.vtechkids.com

Roboraptor

Wow Wee

The remote robotic reptile features an artificial intelligence—complete with audio, visual and tactile sensors—that causes its behavior to change with its mood. $119 www.roboraptoronline.comne.com

Fly Wheels Rapid Fire Launcher

Jakks Pacific

Scaled-down replicas of real wheels and tires can be launched at high speeds. With a simple pull of a ripcord, Fly Wheels Racers can also jump over 25 feet. $39.99 www.jakkspacific.com

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Zizzle

The three-legged alien likes nothing more than to make music (through moving his body parts) or singing your favorite tunes (with the help of an mp3 player). $39.99 www.zizzle.com

Pixel Chix

Mattel

An LCD screen allows Pixel Chix pals to interact with their 3-D homes and those of their friends. Choose from a stylish loft, country cottage and lavish mansion. $24.99 www.amazon.com

Dora’s Talking Kitchen

Fisher-Price

This interactive English-Spanish kitchen features Nickelodeon star Dora, who leads children on a three-part adventure to complete different recipes. $79.99 www.fisher-price.com