TL; DR: As of April 8, the Retro package from CircuitMess(Opens in a new tab) – which includes the Chatter: DIY Walkie-Textie and the ByteBoi DIY Retro Game Console – on sale for just $219.99 instead of $289. That’s an 18% savings for a limited time.
Buying gifts for children is a challenge in itself. Gift shopping for techie kids(Opens in a new tab) It can be more difficult, but if you play your cards right, you can get them something that will help them learn and have fun while they do it. The Retro Bundle is a two-part bundle that guides young learners through the process of creating a text-only walkie-talkie and game console. Get the complete set for just $219.99 (regular price $289).
Fun building set for kids and adults
This vintage building kit can give kids ages 11+ a chance to build something they can actually use. If you want to create a chatting device that has unlimited free texts on its own network, go ahead and create Walkie-Texties.
Each Walkie-Textie can only send messages to other devices on the same network. No text message can be sent to the phone, but the kit comes with materials to build a second device. Anyone with Chatter Walkie-Textie can join the same network and send unlimited texts in a secret code that only other chatting devices can use(Opens in a new tab) i can see.
The second part of the collection is for the ByteBoi, a portable game console with many pre-loaded games, puzzles and adventures. Once the console is assembled, you can play existing games or program your own and share them with other players.
All building components are included in this package, but some hardware and coding skills may be required. Builders would need to solder and assemble electrical components and microcomputers. Some coding experience in C++, Python and CircuitBlocks may also be required if you want to build your own games.
A set that gets your child excited about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)
Encourage your child to explore their interests with a kit that gives them all the ingredients to build their own game console and texting device.
For a limited time, get the Retro Bundle: Build and Program Your Own Walkie-Textie and Game Controller(Opens in a new tab) For $219.99 (regular price $289).
Prices are subject to change.