GI.net: "U.B. Funkeys is a collectible toy online game made by Mattel and Arkadium. Unlike some games that require regular log-ins and creature maintenance or items that gave you limited access time, U.B. Funkey allows you to access an online world and minigames with each collectible toy.
A quick recap, U.B. is the USB critter that plugs into your computer, and the smaller, more colorful Funkey sits on its hollow back. Contact plates on their feet transmit the data to the base, and your online avatar changes to that particular Funkey on the fly. It was easy for a young child to set a Funkey on U.B. Strong magnets guide it into place and makes firm contact.
Funkeys activate different portals to different lands and provide access to their own "house" and minigame. It has been about a year after launch, and Mattel brings to us more Funkeys and lands, and the story has evolved. Terrapina has discovered more information about the portals, and each land brings new and interesting experiences and denizens - one being the friendly cooties who just love you! However, their love makes you a little messy, and you'll have to get a wash every so often, or you'll trail a cloud of dirt behind you, much like Pigpen did in Charlie Brown's world."
To complement today's review of UB Funkeys, MMORPG presents a series of screenshots from this kid friendly game.
Funkeystown is a casual kids game, one that parents can play with their children. There are many fan sites and web blogs that are written by kids with the help of their parents.
They may be "collectible" but the $6 Funkeys allow parents to use them as rewards for their children, a savings goal to work towards or simply gifts for special occasions.
Pros:
Non-violent world and gameplay
Safe Chat for young children
Simple gameplay
Cons:
Cost of Funkeys
Mini-games can be addictive
Ten Ton Hamster had the opportunity to Interview Ethan Wood, the Industrial Designer for U.B. Funkeys. He gives them some great insight into the design, gameplay, and upcoming content in U.B. Funkeys. He also gives some good tips on beating the henchmen and tells them more about the new chat, quests, and multiplayer minigame features.
