Net Jet
by Tiger Electronics/Hasbro, $20

For ages: 8 and up

What it is: A video-game controller that connects to your computer via a USB port and allows kids to play online games. Includes game controller with USB connector, Bubble Bonanza instant online game key, and game instructions. (Each additional “game key” costs $15.)

What’s cool about it: It’s easy to figure out.

What’s not so cool: Kids accustomed to Xbox, PS3, Wii and other gaming systems were not impressed. And the “game keys” don’t actually contain games--you have to go online to download them.

What the kid testers said: “Terrible controller design.” “Clunky.” “Bad games.” “Doesn’t compare with ‘real’ video games.”