Just Intimating IV

 Roman Numerals - that'll show you it is a sequel post.

In this episode: MEGA Snake Mountain and a bonus appearance by a K'nex marble run set that doesn't really work.

If you could get only one big MEGA (Contrux) Masters of the Universe Set, get the other one (Castle Grayskull). The graphic on the packaging were nice (although for actual packaging, Grayskull was better, sorry about the flash). This one had a larger piece count, but too many (for me) rubbery pieces - fangs and "straws"/tubes (the pink stringy sections). Also, around 50 numbered plastic bags. Look at all of those little fangs (that will pop off if you look at them wrong) - not sure i have all of them. 

This set had a problem with the translucent pieces - discolorations, some with almost a burned look, some with a streak of color. Also, a problem with the side connectors (not sure they lined up). One of these days, i'd like to try a big LEGO Set (3,500+ pieces)

Now for the much-anticipated K'nex motorized marble run. This was the first K'nex set i tried (and maybe the last). The instructions on this model are not the most clear - especially when it comes to which of the same-colored pieces to use and some of the connections/angles. When you get it assembled and turn on the motor (use regular AA batteries, didn't work with my Eneloops), the marbles go all over the floor (as the marble run features do not work most of the time).

Sure, maybe there is some degree of user error, but some of the sections are at the mercy of shifting angles and potentially misshaped/warping plastic pieces (think material more flimsy than Hot Wheels track set). Talking mostly about the blue tracks in this picture. The accordion tubes never actually act/look like they do in the directions. Another problem is the "lift hill" grabber pieces tend to shoot off when in operation (there is a chain link type thing between the gears on the top and bottom with scoops every 6 or 8 spaces, can't remember).