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As teenagers, most of us have forgotten the simple gadgets and gizmos that entertained us in our youth. Instead of today’s “ipods” and “Xboxes,” multifunctional toys like “Silly Putty,” and “Slinkies” relieved stress and provided hours of fun. For some kindred, ADD spirits, joy can still be found in simple toys.
While in Boca, I was talked into getting a magnet-fueled wonder toy for a steep price of $30. I reluctantly paid, unaware what endless wonder would lie inside this package.
MAGNETIZE YOUR FUN: Despite their simple exterior, Buckyballs provide consumers with endless possibilities to create their own fun. (Photo/Charles Quittner)
After the first hour of toying with this gadget, I realized the awkwardly named “Bucky Balls” might just be the greatest toy created since “Silly Putty.”
“Bucky Balls” are made from tiny, incredibly strong earth magnets (Neodymium n38) 5mm in diameter. The expensive price might be attributed to the rarity of the metals and the expensive machinery used to make them.
With 216 tiny metallic balls per package, possibilities with “Bucky Balls” are literally infinite. One mode of play involves pulling the orbs into chains and folding them into a magnetic “fabric.” From this they can be melded into limitless 3D, flat, and abstract shapes. One of the first objects I proudly crafted was a beautiful flower.
In addition to lovely decorative knick-knacks, the users of the toy can also form fierce jewelry instantly. “I made a ring that looked absolutely beast,” remarked senior Karam Alawa about his beautiful creation. Multimedia instructor Ms. Molina also created a dazzling bracelet.
Unlike rival magnetic toys, “Bucky Balls” form more durable pieces. If dropped, the magnets don’t scatter so missing pieces are an incredibly rare problem.
Like other innovative products this year, “Bucky Balls” will likely be mocked at first. Then, like the “Snuggie,” large quantities will be purchased for gag gifts. Eventually, people will find out just how addicting the toy is and “Bucky Balls” will become a household name.
However, with this great fun comes great responsibility. The revolutionary toy might cause a rise in homework procrastination due to their seemingly addicting nature. To quote senior Alex Beck, “Forget economics; I’m playing with my ‘Bucky Balls.’”
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