Mars Exploration Rover

I bought this model when I realized that Lego was no longer producing it and not many sets were left. This model is becoming a collectible so the prices can be quite high although it is still possible to fin sets that are affordable. The idea was to offer this model to our son when he will be 10 but I could not resist putting the thing together, pretending I needed to have an idea of the difficulty, but truly for the sheer fun of it :) And fun it was ! But I also did realize that the minimum recommanded age (10) is likely too young for most kids. There are 70 assembly steps and many of those steps require sub-assembly themselves (up to 20 steps), and some of the assembly require both a good deal of precision and strength. I'd think 12 to be the actual minimum age. In any case, after several evenings of work, the final result is gorgeous, with several subtly articulated elements. Now I just have to find the courage to dismantle it and store it for when my son will be ready for it :) more less

If you are looking for a medium-large Technic set off the beaten track, check it out. Among the Discovery sets, this one seems to be the one that is most readily available. I really hope that in the future Lego will introduce more Technic sets like this (non-traditional vehicles/machines and in non-traditional colors). This is a fantastic example of what the possibilities are when they step outside the realm of the zillionth car / truck / construction machine. more less