We're huge fans of STEM-themed toys here at Live Science. This includes this popular example — the classic buzz wire game. For anyone who needs a refresher on this category of toy, the aim of the game is to run a loop on a wand along a length of wire without touching it. This is because the loop and wire are set up so that if they touch, they create a closed electric circuit, setting off a buzzing alarm, or flashing lights. While they are a great hand-eye coordination challenge, these games are also a great way to teach children about electrical circuits. We're taking a closer look at these ace edutainment toys.
FQMAO kid's electric interactive labyrinth toy
Challenge the whole household with this classic choice
This game gets our top slot as it's available in a range of different designs. This means you can choose the shape that you think best suits the skill level of whoever will be playing it. Available in three colors, we like this red-based option that presents a decent challenge for older children, and even grown ups. This machine is powered by two AA batteries. It measures approximately 10 inches by 7.5 inches.
88 Merchandise don't touch the wires puzzle game
This game features a simple design, so it's ideal for pre-schoolers
88 Merchandise's game has a more simple design, so it is perfectly suited to younger children. It's aimed at kids of three-years-old and up. The design is a familiar human shape. As with other options, this game buzzes loudly if the wand touches any part of the wire. This toy is powered by two AAA batteries. It's a compact option, measuring in at 8.5 inches by 5 inches by nearly four inches.
4M Kidz Labs buzz wire making kit
This educational game can be redesigned every time you play
4M's option has a real educational value and is a strong option for older children. This game is recommended for children aged eight and up. It is a little different from the others as you have to construct it yourself. This is obviously a great way to teach children how an electric circuit is made. Once the game is made you can obviously play it, but the really awesome thing is that you can create new shapes each time you play.
Nuobesty kid's electric touch maze toy
A challenging choice for older children and even adults
This choice is technically suitable for children of three-years-old, but we doubt kids of such a young age could rise to the challenge. It's a design that will really test your hand-eye coordination with twists and turns aplenty to catch you out as you try and navigate from one end to the other. It measures approximately 10 inches by 7.5 inches. When the wand touches the wire, this lights up as well as making a sound, so is an option to consider for hearing impaired.
Buzz wire adult drinking game
Adding alcohol into the mix turns this into a party game
Finally, why should kids have all the fun? This buzz wire game is aimed firmly at adults. This is because the company behind this have taken the buzz wire concept and turned it into a drinking game. The idea is that you take it in turns to have a go. If you touch the wand on the wire there is a sound like breaking glass. This means you have to have a shot, and pass the wand to the next player. Obviously the more you drink, the harder the game gets, leading to much hilarity.
Get buzzing
Our overall best pick, the FQMAO kid's electric interactive labyrinth toy comes recommended as a family-friendly option suitable for all ages to sit down and play together. If younger kids find it too challenging, you could change the rules to allow them to hit the wire a set amount of times.
The best educational choice is the 4M Kidz Labs buzz wire making kit. This science-themed set sees older children constructing the game, so they can learn about circuits. We also like the fact you can reconfigure the design each time, making it a different challenge each time.
On the subject of challenges, trying to keep a very steady hand when you've had a few shots of the good stuff isn't easy. This is the amusing premise behind our best pick for adults — the Buzz wire adult drinking game.
