fbpx

Industry News

PlayMonster acquires Tinkineer and STEM line Marbleocity

23 May - 2017

Tags from the story: Marbleocity, PlayMonster, Tinkineer.

Wood Sets Introduce Children to Engineering Principles and Physics Concepts with Dynamic Hands-On Model Kits.

PlayMonster announced the new acquisition of Marbleocity, a line of laser-cut wooden STEM kits created by Tinkineer and made in America. The intricate and beautiful designs of each module stand alone or fit together to form an expansive marble empire. With four different sets currently available and more on the way, Marbleocity brings STEM toys to a whole new, wondrous level.

Bob Wann, CEO of PlayMonster, is very excited and impressed by the uniqueness of this new STEM line: “There are so many STEM concepts being introduced this year, but what really impressed us about Marbleocity was its unique combination of teaching STEM skills and providing great entertainment value for kids, so that they learn while having fun!

We designed the Marbleocity line to be a satisfying and fun building experience,” said Adam Hocherman, founder of Tinkineer, and now PlayMonster’s Vice President of New Business. “Each set includes a graphic novel designed to communicate meaningful STEM concepts in an engaging format. Our cast of Tinkineers — Kevin, Joule, Newt and friends — come together in each story to teach a physics or mechanics lesson that children can understand and that relates to the model they are building.

There are currently four different models in the Marbleocity line with more planned. All sets are made of laser-cut Baltic Birch and do not require batteries:

  • Mini Coaster — For the beginner Maker! Build your own wild ride full of dips and turns with some engineering and physics thrown in. Can be completed in around an hour. Consists of over 30 laser-cut wood parts.
  • Dragon Coaster — Construct your own wooden roller coaster full of dips and turns with some engineering and physics thrown in. Inspired by the real wooden roller coaster of the same name, located at Playland in Rye, NY. Consists of over 80 laser-cut wooden parts.
  • Mini Skate Park — We’ve put a lot of physics action into a small space, including a stair descent, rail slide and … a jump! Yes, the marbles get air! A multi-gear lift gets your marbles into position to take the jump before hitting the stairs and rail slide. Can be completed in about an hour. Consists of over 30 laser-cut wood parts.
  • Skate Park — Highlights the physics of skateboarding with a half-pipe, stair descent, rail slide and … a jump! This module can stand on its own or adjoin the Dragon Coaster module to allow circulation of marbles between the two. Consists of over 80 laser-cut wooden parts.

Subscribe to our newsletter


Read our last issue




PLAYMATES PRESENTS THE NEW 2024 MIRACULOUS LINEUP
PLAYMATES PRESENTS THE NEW 2024 MIRACULOUS LINEUP

During the New York Toy Fair, Playmates will preview the new Miraculous toys at booth #2707. The collection Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir includes new dolls and special playsets. Featuring special super-suits with unique styles, Magic Heroez Transformation Dolls...

read more
ZAG SIGNS GLOBAL LICENSING DEAL WITH SAI GROUP’S KANDIZ
ZAG SIGNS GLOBAL LICENSING DEAL WITH SAI GROUP’S KANDIZ

ZAG has teamed up with SAI Group to create a diverse line of KANDIZ snacks, cereals, and candy for Miraculous. The announcement was conveyed today by Carlotta Caracciolo, ZAG's Vice President of Licensing & Retail for the Middle East, Turkey, Greece, Africa &...

read more
THE INNOVATIVE TOYS OF KIDKRAFT
THE INNOVATIVE TOYS OF KIDKRAFT

During New York Toy Fair, KidKraft will show their 2023 holiday must-haves as well as 2024 previews. KidKraft is the global leader in award-winning, high-quality products that are MADE FOR MAKE BELIEVE. For over 50 years they've been committed to inspiring active and...

read more