In today's technology-driven world, kids seem to be strapped to screens rather than playing and interacting with other kids. But with the reinvention of classic toys like the marble run, they have the opportunity to be inspired through interactive play.

WHY MARBLE RUNS ARE THE PERFECT TOY

At Marble Genius, we've put a lot of work and thought into the designs of our marble run toys. Here are two of the many reasons we think marble runs are the perfect toy:

Marble runs offer endless building options.

Our system of see-through plastic tubes can be built in a massive array of heights and widths. You can make structures from a small tabletop design to a gargantuan structure that fills up a room. Creativity runs free as you connect action pieces with tubes, loops, spinning wheels, and more. If you get tired of your current structure, you can always build a new one. The possibilities truly are endless!

Marble runs inspire learning through play.

Marble runs are the ideal toy because they're not only fun, but they build important life skills in kids. Through trial and error, children are able to develop logical thinking skills, memory and recall, motor skills, and more. (For more on this topic, check out the following articles on promoting child development and the importance of interactive toys.)

MAKING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MARBLE RUN

Marble runs are intended to be open-ended, meaning you can let your imagination go free as you design and build your own structures. However, some people like a little inspiration to get started.

To get the most out of your Marble Genius marble run, we've created four videos below that show builds from start to finish -- two for our Starter Set and two for our Super Set. The videos are set to music and move slowly enough that you can build your marble runs alongside them.

Our hope is that these videos will build your confidence, spark your creativity, and inspire you to dream up your own structures in the future. Happy building!

Marble Run Instructional Videos: Step-by-Step

Finding the best marble run can be a daunting task because there are so many options and the quality differences between products can be significant. No matter how difficult it might be, doing a little research up front will save you a lot of money and frustration later.

Here are some tips to make your marble run search a little easier...

DEFINE YOUR PURPOSE OF BUYING A MARBLE RUN.

It's essential to know the specific reason of your purchase when considering a marble toy. Do you want to build a marble race? Are you looking for a marble roller coaster that requires complex construction? Or are you looking for a traditional marble run toy that allows your kids to create numerous configurations and endless fun?

Once you're clear that you want to move forward with purchasing a marble run, there are additional considerations to take into account.

UNDERSTAND THE COMPANIES MAKING MARBLE RUNS TODAY.

There are a number of companies that sell at least one type of marble run, and each of them have their pros and cons.

Galt

This is one of the better companies that has mostly satisfied customers. Customers who have complained mention its poor design and quality for the price. Galt's primary marble runs don't have see-through pieces -- a feature that tends to be a kid favorite.

(Galt Mega Marble Run Toy)

Quercetti

This is an Italian-made product that has received an average response. Many people are unhappy with its poor quality and flimsy structure. However, Quercetti offers a variety of eye-catching pieces in their sets.

(Quercetti Super Marble Run)

Imaginarium

This company is well known for creating education toys, but reviews suggest that Imaginarium's marble run doesn't live up to their usual standards. The run is difficult to assemble, and once built, isn't sturdy for long-lasting play. They do, however, offer colorful, eye-catching pieces that are sure to get kids excited to play.

(Imaginarium Deluxe Marble Race)

Mega Fun / Mindware / Toysmith 

Each of these companies makes several different marble run toys, but have mixed reviews regarding the quality of product. Mega Fun and Toysmith get the worst reviews in terms of flimsy structure and quality, while Mindware is a more solid option. Toysmith and Mindware marble runs don't have see-through pieces, whereas Mega Fun offers a mixture of both. Be sure to research and read reviews for pros and cons of each one before purchasing.

(Toysmith 80-Piece Marble Run)

Edushape

Edushape has a number of different marble run products. Many of their designs are bright and colorful. Unfortunately, many of their sets get mixed reviews due to the pieces not staying together very well and the bases not being solid enough.

(Edushape Marbulous Marble Run)

Discovery Toys

The Discovery Toys Marble Run was one of the originals and still receives a good response. The pieces are easy to assemble for older kids, but can be challenging for young kids. It's an entertaining set because of additional add-ons, but unfortunately these products have failed to innovate over the years, so the colors and some of the pieces are a bit outdated.

(Marbleworks Starter Set by Discovery Toys)

Marble Genius

Here at Marble Genius, we've gone to tremendous lengths to build high-quality marble runs that are stable and durable. We've researched every product on the market, noting its strengths and seeking to improve on its weaknesses.

Our designs are bright and colorful and feature a number of exciting action pieces. From the very simple to the very complex, Marble Genius has a marble run for every age group that's both challenging and engaging. Our pieces stick together well, but they can come apart easily when built by younger kids. We also provide a higher number of large bases to support the tallest of marble runs.

(Marble Genius Super Set)

DO PLENTY OF RESEARCH BEFORE BUYING YOUR MARBLE RUN.

Before you purchase any marble run, we highly encourage you to do your own research on each of these products so you can come to your own conclusion. Don’t get sucked in by pictures alone, but make sure you pay attention to all of the quality aspects mentioned above. For more specific buying tips, check out these articles on purchasing a fun and sturdy marble run.

Happy shopping!