If you’re about my age, you will probably remember Saturday morning TV with episodes of the original Scooby-Doo. The classic ‘I would have gotten away with it too, if it wasn’t for those pesky kids’ is ingrained in my mind! Then when I was a little older there was the ‘live action’ remake of the series. Bring it up to date in 2020 and now there is another animation, but this time a movie, called Soob. I like how things that I knew and enjoyed growing up make the rounds again, and my children get to enjoy now too.
Although the movie is likely to not have the same reception as they might have planned, with cinemas closed and social distancing in place, and screening from home available, there are still plenty of ways that you can celebrate the launch of the new movie, and get to know all of the characters. One way to bring the fun into your home is with the new Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine from Playmobil. We’ve been sent one to try out, and see what we think to it!
First Impressions
The set doesn’t deviate too far at all from the classic image of the characters Fred, Velma, and Daphne (you have to get Scooby-Doo and Shaggy separately). The Mystery Machine is as I remember, with the same classic colours and style. It is an iconic van, and seeing that it is just as I remember is great. The set comes with a variety of different accessories, as well as stickers to put onto the van.
Classic Playmobil Quality
Ever since my children saw the Playmobil movie, they have been pretty obsessed with Playmobil! They love the movie, and like that there are a variety of Playmobil sets to choose from. For my daughter (aged 6) I think she prefers that Playmobil is a little larger and less fiddly than Lego. And this set, aimed at children aged five and over, fits well with her age group (though my son, aged 8, has been enjoying it too).
You know to expect a certain level of quality with Playmobil products, from the packaging to the finished product, and the Mystery Machine set is no different. It is well made, a solid toy, and easy to assemble for the pieces that need to be put together.
Attention to Detail
The attention to detail with this set is brilliant! From the little accessories that come with Fred, Daphne, and Velma, to the Scooby Snacks and the little stickers, it is really cute. The set also features a ‘computer’ centre that can light up (with batteries not included), which is a fun addition, as well as multiple doors and accessories so that you can create scenes from the classic cartoon. There are other cute accessories like magnifying glass, a map, torch, camera, drinks with straw lids, and GPS. The set does come with a variety of little accessories, which I think is a great addition.
Value for Money?
The set is priced at £49.99, which for what you get, is a pretty standard price. My only thoughts on the price would be that the Scooby-Doo and Shaggy set is separate, priced at £12.99. So if you wanted to have the full team in the Mystery Machine, then it would be just under £63, which does seem a little excessive. In terms of the quality of the product though, it is worth the price, as it is well made, and the kind of thing that will last and last.
All in all, I think that the Mystery Machine from Playmobil is really fun. The children have really enjoyed playing with it, as it allows them to be creative and make up some creative scenarios with ghosts and fighting away the baddies! The set is well made, looks good, is bright, and attractive. If it is in your budget for a gift, then I think that it is a good toy to get.
The movie Scoob is out to stream now from home. Will you be watching? It would be great to hear what you think.
*the Mystery Machine was gifted in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are our own.
