Thames & Kosmos Gecko Run: Marble Run Starter Set
by Thames & Kosmos · Ages 9–12 · Building
No confirmed recall for this toy.
We check it against CPSC recalls every night; our recall list runs through September 24, 2026. Possible matches are reviewed by a person before anything shows here. Always check the model number on the box at cpsc.gov/Recalls.
Why we picked it
A marble run that goes up the wall. The 63 track pieces attach with reusable nano-adhesive pads, so the whole course sticks to a window, a door, a tiled wall or the fridge, and the marble drops through it vertically. That makes the runs longer and more dramatic than a tabletop set and keeps it off the floor.
Why it made our list: marble runs at this age are about engineering the drop, and building on a wall adds a real design problem. The Toy Association named it 2025 Toy of the Year in the construction category.
Before you buy: the age grade is 8 and up. The pads want smooth, clean surfaces (glass, tile, gloss paint, laminate) and can be repositioned many times; a wipe with a microfibre cloth restores them. Marbles are small parts; keep them from children under three. It is the starter set; a Deluxe set and Snake, Loop, Twister and Flex-Corner expansions exist if it catches on.
Before you buy
- Check the age grade on the box; it can differ from ours.
- If younger children share the room, check for small parts.
- Look up the model number at cpsc.gov/Recalls before first use.