Best Toys of 2008

About.com Toys Guide Dipika Mirpuri has put together her list of the Best Toys of 2008. Among her choices are the WowWee Tribot (Buy Direct) and Spike the Ultra Dinosaur (Buy Direct). If you want more ideas along those same lines, check out Robosapien Media and other RC robots as well as WowWee Roboreptile and other RC dinosaurs for all ages.

On a not exactly RC-related note, Dipika's best of 2008 list also includes the Jakks Pacific Eye Clops Night Vision goggles (Compare Prices) -- yes, the same folks who make the XPV and other nifty RC toys. I have a pair of those infrared night vision goggles (thank you dear, sweet, wonderful wife who buys me cool toys when it's not even my birthday or Christmas). They are pretty neat even for adults.

You look a bit like the Borg when wearing them but if the electricity goes out at night they can come in quite handy for finding the darn flashlights that get lost in drawers and closets. A safety warning if you're considering these for yourself or the kids -- walking in the dark can be hazardous. Although you can see clearly, your field of vision is limited. Watch your step carefully, move your head around a lot, and don't run. Oh, and they make for some challenging RC fun too. Try driving or flying an RC in the dark while wearing the night vision goggles.

Kids begging for a pair? Resistance is futile. Buy two so you can join in the fun.