Hexbugs Are the Perfect Stocking-Stuffer

Zachary Fruhling
If you are looking for the perfect stocking-stuffer this Christmas season, look no further than the Hexbug. Hexbugs are miniature robotic insects, in a variety of shapes and colors, with sensors to guide their way. While the Hexbug is really just a clever and simple toy, Hexbugs are adorably cute and fun.

Hexbugs are available in a total of six colors, each with its individual shape and name. The Hexbugs are available in orange, green, blue, yellow, and pink; with the names "Alpha," "Bravo," "Charlie," "Delta," and "Echo," respectively. Each Hexbug has its own unique insect shape, with different shaped translucent plastic wings; although each Hexbug has exactly six legs in keeping with the fact that they are all supposed to be insects.

Hexbugs have metal antennae that serve as sensors. When the Hexbug runs into a foreign object, it will change directions and keep crawling around until it runs into yet another foreign object. It is worth noting that Hexbugs really do not do very much other than crawl around and turn when they run into something, but they are an adorable stocking stuffer that will be a big hit with kids and adults alike on Christmas morning.

Hexbugs are also available in a variety of other formats than the original and basic insect variety. However, these other varieties of Hexbug may be considered to be derivative from the original Hexbug. Hexbugs, because of their small size, unique shapes, and colorful translucent plastic shells, are very collectable. It would not be unreasonable to give an entire set of Hexbugs as a larger gift all at once, although it would be fun to give Hexbugs as gifts slowly, over time, as a type of novelty collector's item.

In addition to having sensor antennae, the Hexbugs also claim to have audio sensors to allow the Hexbugs to turn upon command by the presence of a suddenly occurring loud noise, such as clapping hands or a shout. In practice, I have not found this audio sensing feature to be very exciting, and it is more fun just to let the Hexbug navigate its own way around the floor or desk, guided by its own sensor antennae.

In conclusion, if you are looking for the perfect stocking-stuffer gift for your family, whether children or adults, consider the Hexbug as a fun and colorful stuffer that will amuse the whole family (not to mention pets!). Hexbugs are available at RadioShack or online at Vexrobotics.com. Hexbugs retail for $9.99 each.

Published by Zachary Fruhling

Zachary Fruhling is a Ph.D. Candidate in the philosophy department at the University of California, Santa Cruz. He is also an education digital content developer for logic, philosophy, and personal finance....  View profile

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.