Sketchy — Aaron Tait’s new-fangled version of the classic etch-a-sketch — is just like the original. Two large white nobs control a tiny bead as it draws lines across the screen all rolled up in a familiar red package. For some it’s just another artistic medium. For me it’s an exercise in futility as I try to remember if I turn left or right to make a square. Of course, futility can be a lot of fun.

Last night I tested Sketchy with my friend and his 11-year-old son. We all had a good time passing around the iPhone making doodles, laughing and then shaking the phone to erase the drawings. Sketchy is a great group toy because adults and kids can both enjoy it. Adults love the trip down memory lane and for kids … well, remember the fun you had with this classic toy?

The nobs are very responsive, although in a few cases a bit overly sensitive. It helps to glide one finger slowly when “turning” the nob. In most cases, it wasn’t any different than using a real etch-a-sketch. It takes a bit of practice to  move past the stage of Coordination Frustration. But once you get going, it’s tons of fun.

** Editor’s Note: Sketchy has been removed from the app store.

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category: Drawing, Entertainment