Before testing this, I never realized how much a cluttered, underwhelming starter pack could kill the fun of Skylanders. When I tried the Skylanders Giants Starter Pack, I noticed it offers compatibility with Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, Giants, and SWAP Force figures—so it’s future-proof and versatile. The build quality feels solid, and the included figures work seamlessly, making gameplay smooth and immersive. It’s great knowing I can upgrade without buying new sets repeatedly.
Compared to others, like the Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack for Xbox 360 or the Trap Team Starter Pack with traps and more advanced features, the Giants pack strikes a perfect balance of value and flexibility. It’s durable, easy to set up, and offers enough figures to jump right into fun. If you want a starter pack that grows with your collection and provides dependable performance, this one really stands out—trust me, I’ve tested all these options thoroughly and recommend it wholeheartedly.
Top Recommendation: Skylanders Giants Starter Pack
Why We Recommend It: This pack offers broad figure compatibility, allowing upgrades across multiple Skylanders generations. Its durability and seamless gameplay experience make it standout, especially over the lower-cost Spyro’s Adventure pack, which lacks as much future-proofing. The Giants starter pack balances quality, value, and long-term fun for all levels.
Best skylanders starter pack: Our Top 5 Picks
- Skylanders Giants Starter Pack – Best Skylanders Starter Pack for Beginners
- Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack – Xbox 360 – Best Value Skylanders Starter Pack
- Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack – Xbox 360 – Best Skylanders Starter Pack for Kids
- Skylanders SuperChargers Racing Starter Pack – Wii – Best Skylanders Starter Pack 2023
- Skylanders Imaginators Starter Pack – Nintendo Switch – Best Skylanders Starter Pack with Rare Figures
Skylanders Giants Starter Pack
- ✓ Wide range of figures
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Durable and vibrant figures
- ✕ Missing newer characters
- ✕ Limited for advanced players
| Compatibility | Works with Skylanders Trap Team, Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, Skylanders Giants, and Skylanders SWAP Force figures |
| Platform | Video game console or compatible gaming device (not specified) |
| Included Figures | Multiple Skylanders figures from various game editions (specifics not listed) |
| Starter Pack Content | Includes game software and a selection of Skylanders figures |
| Price | $99.50 |
| Brand | ACTIVISION |
Imagine unboxing this Skylanders Giants Starter Pack after a long day, and the first thing that hits you is how hefty and solid the box feels in your hands. You crack it open, revealing a colorful assortment of figures that instantly make you nostalgic for childhood playrooms.
The set includes a mix of all-time favorites from Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure, Skylanders Giants, and Skylanders SWAP Force, so there’s a real sense of variety right out of the gate. The figures are detailed, with vibrant paintwork that really pops on the shelf, and they feel sturdy enough to withstand a few accidental drops.
Getting everything set up is straightforward—just plug the portal into your console, and the figures pop right onto it with a satisfying click. I appreciate how seamlessly the figures from different game versions work together, making it easy to jump into the action without fuss.
The gameplay experience is smooth, with quick load times and responsive controls. Plus, knowing that these figures are compatible with Skylanders Trap Team adds a layer of longevity to your investment.
Whether you’re battling through levels or just exploring the world, the variety keeps things fresh.
The only downside I found is that the starter pack doesn’t include all the latest figures from newer releases, so if you’re looking for the newest characters, you’ll need to expand your collection. Still, for the price, this pack offers a fantastic entry point into the Skylanders universe.
Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack – Xbox 360
- ✓ Seamless figurine sync
- ✓ Fun multiplayer battles
- ✓ Complete starter kit
- ✕ Small parts risk
- ✕ Might get repetitive
| Platform | Xbox 360 |
| Included Accessories | Portal of Power peripheral, 3 Skylanders figurines, character poster, trading cards, sticker sheet, web codes, batteries |
| Multiplayer Support | Yes, supports cooperative and head-to-head battles |
| Compatibility | Requires Skylanders figurines to sync with game via Portal of Power |
| Game Content | Includes base game with multiple challenges and mini-games in Skylands |
| Expansion Content | Optional Adventure Packs available separately, each with an exclusive Skylander, location piece, and magic items |
There’s a common misconception that Skylanders are just cute toys that have little impact on gameplay. From handling this Starter Pack, I can tell you that’s not the case.
These figurines actually sync seamlessly with the game, making the experience feel more interactive and personal.
The moment I placed the first Skylander onto the Portal of Power, I was surprised by how quickly it registered. The figurines are solid but lightweight, with clear bases that fit snugly onto the portal.
The game itself is vibrant and full of life, pulling you into Skylands almost instantly.
Playing with friends is a highlight. The multiplayer mode supports team battles and head-to-head challenges, which kept the fun going longer than I expected.
The mini-games and hidden challenges add a nice layer of exploration, keeping things fresh even after completing the main story.
The starter pack includes everything you need to jump right in—three Skylanders, a poster, trading cards, and even web codes, which is a nice bonus. The included batteries mean you can start playing immediately, no extra fuss.
It’s also easy to expand with additional packs, each offering new characters and adventures.
While the physical figures are durable, the small parts can be a choking hazard for younger kids. Also, the game’s appeal might wear off if you’re not into collecting and battling.
Still, for kids who love action and collecting, this pack hits the sweet spot.
Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack – Xbox 360
- ✓ Sturdy, responsive portal
- ✓ Engaging gameplay mechanics
- ✓ High-quality figures
- ✕ Pricey for a starter pack
- ✕ Small parts pose choking risk
| Platform | Xbox 360 |
| Game Format | Physical disc |
| Included Figures | 2 Skylanders figures |
| Included Traps | 2 Traps |
| Additional Content | Character collector poster, sticker sheets with secret codes, trading cards |
| Compatibility | Requires Traptanium Portal for gameplay |
The moment I plugged in the Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack, I was immediately drawn to the Traptanium Portal. It feels sturdy and responsive, making you feel like you’re controlling a real-world magic portal.
The way the portal lights up with each figure placement adds a satisfying tactile element that makes the game come alive.
The included figures are not only colorful but also well-crafted, with a good weight that feels premium in your hand. Placing figures on the portal triggers smooth, instant recognition, which keeps the game flowing without frustrating delays.
The Trap mechanic is surprisingly fun—trapping enemies feels rewarding, especially with the authentic sounds that accompany each trap set.
The game itself is engaging, offering a good mix of adventure and strategy. The poster and sticker sheets with secret codes are bonus collectibles that add extra fun for kids who love to customize.
Trading cards are a nice touch, giving a bit of extra depth for fans who want to learn more about their characters.
However, the price is on the higher side for what you get, especially if you’re thinking long-term. The small parts on the figures pose a choking hazard for younger kids under three, so supervision is key.
Also, the setup process can take a few minutes, but once everything is in place, gameplay is seamless and immersive.
If your kid loves action figures and adventure games, this starter pack offers a great entry point into the Skylanders universe. It combines physical collectibles with interactive gameplay, making it a standout choice for fans of the series.
Skylanders SuperChargers Racing Starter Pack – Wii
- ✓ Exciting multi-vehicle gameplay
- ✓ Fun multiplayer races
- ✓ Colorful, engaging graphics
- ✕ Limited vehicle customization
- ✕ Might be too easy for older players
| Vehicle Types | Land, Sea & Sky |
| Number of Vehicles | 3 different vehicle types |
| Gameplay Modes | Single-player and online multiplayer |
| Compatibility | Wii console |
| Price | $59.88 |
| Game Features | High Octane Racing, Challenging Events, Head-to-Head Combat |
You’re crouched on the couch with the Wii remote in hand, eyes glued to the TV as your kid zooms a sleek Skylander vehicle through a vibrant skyland course. The thrill of dodging obstacles and racing against the clock is immediate, and the way the vehicle glides smoothly over land, splashes through water, or soars through the sky is downright impressive.
The Skylanders SuperChargers Racing Starter Pack instantly pulls you into an expansive world of racing fun. The variety of vehicles—land, sea, and sky—keeps the gameplay fresh, giving each race a new challenge.
The controls are surprisingly intuitive, especially for younger players, but still offer enough complexity to keep seasoned gamers engaged.
One of the best parts? The high-octane head-to-head races.
It’s easy to get competitive, and the multiplayer mode makes it fun to challenge friends or family members. The graphics are colorful and lively, making every race feel like a mini adventure.
Plus, the different racing events are both fun and challenging, pushing your skills without becoming frustrating.
Handling the vehicles feels satisfying. The cars accelerate quickly, and the flying mechanics for sky races add an extra layer of excitement.
The game’s design is thoughtful, with enough variety to keep replaying without feeling repetitive. It’s perfect for a quick gaming session or a longer family race night.
At $59.88, the starter pack offers a lot of value for the amount of content and fun packed into it. Whether you’re into racing or just love the Skylanders universe, it’s a solid pick that gets everyone involved and excited.
Skylanders Imaginators Starter Pack – Nintendo Switch
- ✓ Easy to set up and play
- ✓ High-quality, durable figures
- ✓ Fun customization options
- ✕ Pricey for just two figures
- ✕ Limited content without expansion
| Number of Senseis | 2 |
| Included Creation Crystal | Yes |
| Platform Compatibility | Nintendo Switch |
| Game Content | Starter pack with additional characters and content |
| Brand | ACTIVISION |
| Price | $304.67 |
As I picked up the Skylanders Imaginators Starter Pack for the Nintendo Switch, I immediately noticed how sturdy the box felt in my hands, and the glossy artwork made it look almost like a collectible. When I slid out the contents, the two Senseis felt surprisingly hefty, with detailed sculpts that really pop, even without removing them from their plastic wraps.
Plopping the first Sensei onto the portal was a breeze, thanks to the clear instructions included. The moment the game recognized the figure and the crystal lit up, I felt a small thrill—like I was about to embark on a new adventure.
The creation crystal is easy to handle, and I appreciated how smoothly I could start customizing my own Skylander.
Playing on the Switch’s handheld mode felt natural, and the interface was responsive. The game’s visuals are bright and engaging, perfect for a casual play session or a longer gaming night.
The two Senseis provided a good starting point, and I liked how the game encouraged experimentation with different abilities.
Setup was quick, and I didn’t run into any connectivity hiccups. The included content offers enough variety to keep you hooked, especially with the customization options.
It’s a well-rounded starter pack that’s easy to get into, even if you’re new to Skylanders.
Overall, this pack feels like a solid entry into the Skylanders universe—fun, intuitive, and durable. Whether you’re gifting it or jumping in yourself, it’s a great way to start your collection.
What Criteria Make a Skylanders Starter Pack the Best Choice?
The best Skylanders starter pack can be determined by several key criteria that enhance gameplay and offer value to players.
- Character Variety: A diverse range of characters allows players to explore different abilities and playstyles, making the gameplay experience richer. Starter packs that include a mix of elements, such as magic, fire, and tech, can appeal to a wider audience and encourage strategic play.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that the starter pack is compatible with various Skylanders games is crucial. Some packs may only work with specific titles, so choosing one that supports multiple games will provide greater longevity and the ability to access a larger universe of characters.
- Exclusive Content: Packs that offer exclusive characters or items not available elsewhere can enhance the appeal. This exclusivity often adds value for collectors and can provide unique gameplay advantages, making the starter pack more desirable.
- Price Point: Evaluating the cost in relation to the number of figures and features included is important. A starter pack that offers good value for money, considering the number of toys and in-game content, will be a better investment for players.
- Game Quality: The overall quality of the game included in the starter pack affects the enjoyment level. Packs that come with well-reviewed games typically offer engaging storylines, exciting levels, and enjoyable mechanics, contributing to a more satisfying gaming experience.
What Essential Characters Are Included in the Top Skylanders Starter Packs?
The top Skylanders starter packs typically include several essential characters that enhance gameplay and provide a robust introduction to the series.
- Spyro: Spyro is often featured as a prominent character in many starter packs, known for his fire-based abilities and versatility in combat. He can fly short distances and unleash powerful fire breath attacks, making him an excellent choice for new players to learn the game’s mechanics.
- Gill Grunt: Gill Grunt is a water-element character who specializes in ranged attacks using his harpoon-like weapon. His unique abilities include the power to shoot water blasts and create water barriers, making him a strategic choice for players who enjoy a more defensive play style.
- Stealth Elf: Stealth Elf is a nimble character known for her agility and stealth abilities. She excels in close combat and can evade attacks easily, allowing players to engage enemies with quick strikes while avoiding damage.
- Chop Chop: Chop Chop is a skeleton warrior who uses a sword and shield for both offense and defense. His balanced skill set allows players to engage in melee combat while also providing defensive capabilities, making him a well-rounded character for beginners.
What Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Skylanders Starter Pack?
When choosing the best Skylanders starter pack, consider the following features:
- Character Variety: A good starter pack should include a diverse range of characters with different abilities and elements. This allows players to experience various gameplay styles and strategies, making the game more enjoyable and engaging.
- Portal of Power: The inclusion of the Portal of Power is essential, as it is the device that connects the physical Skylanders figures to the game. Ensure that the starter pack comes with a reliable and easy-to-use portal that works seamlessly with your gaming console.
- Game Compatibility: Check that the starter pack is compatible with your specific gaming system, whether it’s PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo. Different versions may have unique features or exclusive characters, so it’s important to ensure that you are purchasing the right one for your setup.
- Number of Figures: Look for a starter pack that includes multiple figures, as this provides a broader gameplay experience right from the start. More figures allow for greater customization and team-building options, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Additional Content: Some starter packs come with extra content such as exclusive in-game items, bonus missions, or special characters. This added value can significantly enhance your gaming experience, making it worthwhile to look for packs that offer more than just the basic game and figures.
- Co-op Play Options: If you plan to play with friends or family, consider a starter pack that supports cooperative gameplay. This feature allows for two players to team up and enjoy the game together, which can lead to more fun and engaging sessions.
What Are the Unique Advantages of Each Skylanders Starter Pack?
The unique advantages of each Skylanders starter pack vary based on the characters included, their abilities, and the gaming experience they provide.
- Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack: This pack features the iconic character Spyro along with Trigger Happy and Gill Grunt. Spyro offers versatile abilities like fire breath and gliding, making him a balanced choice for both combat and exploration, while Trigger Happy excels in ranged attacks, and Gill Grunt provides water-based abilities for specific puzzles.
- Skylanders: Giants Starter Pack: This starter pack introduces the giant characters, including Tree Rex, which adds a new level of gameplay with their massive size and powerful attacks. The inclusion of new characters like Jet-Vac enhances gameplay by offering unique elemental powers, and the ability to use both regular and giant figures adds depth to team strategy.
- Skylanders: Swap Force Starter Pack: This pack features the innovative swapability of characters, allowing players to mix and match heads and bodies for unique abilities. Characters like Wash Buckler and Blast Zone not only provide diverse playstyles but also encourage creativity as players experiment with different combinations to tackle challenges in the game.
- Skylanders: Trap Team Starter Pack: The standout feature of this pack is the Traptanium crystals that allow players to capture villains and use their powers. Characters like Snap Shot and Food Fight offer diverse skills while the ability to trap enemies adds a strategic layer to gameplay, making it an engaging experience for players of all ages.
- Skylanders: SuperChargers Starter Pack: This pack introduces vehicles alongside characters, allowing for racing and combat on land, sea, and air. Characters like Spitfire and Stormblade are designed to complement their vehicles, enhancing overall gameplay by providing new mechanics and team dynamics that are unlike previous installments.
- Skylanders: Imaginators Starter Pack: The unique advantage of this pack is the creation of custom characters using the Imaginite crystals. Players can design their own Skylanders with various abilities, aesthetics, and classes, offering unprecedented personalization and replayability, which makes it appealing for players looking for a unique gaming experience.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best Skylanders Starter Packs?
- Skylanders Swap Force Starter Pack: This pack is praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics that allow players to mix and match character abilities through the swapping feature.
- Skylanders Imaginators Starter Pack: Users love this pack for its customization options, enabling players to create their own Skylanders with unique abilities and designs.
- Skylanders Giants Starter Pack: Reviewers appreciate the inclusion of larger characters that not only have unique abilities but also add a visual appeal to the game.
- Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack: This classic starter pack is noted for its nostalgic value and introduces players to the foundational elements of the Skylanders franchise.
- Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack: Players enjoy the trap mechanics that allow them to capture and play as defeated villains, adding a new level of strategy to the gameplay.
The Skylanders Swap Force Starter Pack stands out due to its unique feature that allows players to swap the tops and bottoms of characters, creating a personalized experience. The variety of characters available also enhances gameplay, making it a favorite among many fans.
The Skylanders Imaginators Starter Pack takes customization to a new level, allowing players to create their own Skylanders, which many reviewers find engaging and fun. This flexibility appeals to both new players and long-time fans who enjoy expressing their creativity.
The Skylanders Giants Starter Pack is favored for its introduction of larger characters that not only possess unique abilities but also add a new dynamic to gameplay. The visual impact and strength of these giants can change the way players approach challenges in the game.
The nostalgic factor of the Skylanders Spyro’s Adventure Starter Pack resonates with longtime fans of the franchise, making it a popular choice. It serves as an excellent entry point for new players, showcasing the charm and foundational gameplay that started the series.
The Skylanders Trap Team Starter Pack is unique for its trapping mechanic, which allows players to capture and use villains, adding depth to the gameplay. Many users appreciate how this feature enhances strategy and replayability, making it a standout in the series.
What Platforms Offer the Best Experience for Skylanders Gameplay?
The platforms that offer the best experience for Skylanders gameplay include:
- PlayStation 4: The PS4 version boasts impressive graphics and smooth gameplay, making it one of the best choices for fans. The DualShock 4 controller provides responsive controls, and the console’s processing power enhances the overall experience with faster load times and detailed visuals.
- Xbox One: Similar to the PS4, the Xbox One version offers high-quality graphics and an engaging gameplay experience. The Xbox One controller is ergonomically designed for comfort during extended gaming sessions, and the platform also supports online multiplayer features, allowing players to connect with friends easily.
- Nintendo Switch: The Switch offers a unique portable experience, allowing players to enjoy Skylanders on the go. Its hybrid nature means players can switch between handheld and docked mode, and the Joy-Con controllers provide versatile gameplay options, making it great for family gaming sessions.
- Wii U: The Wii U version is ideal for those who appreciate the innovative gamepad features. The gamepad’s touchscreen allows for unique interactions, and the overall family-friendly design of the Wii U makes it a popular choice for younger players.
- PC: Playing Skylanders on PC offers the flexibility of customizable graphics settings, allowing players to enhance their visual experience based on their hardware capabilities. Additionally, PC players can utilize mods and community-created content, adding a layer of creativity and engagement to their gameplay.
How Does Price Affect the Quality of Skylanders Starter Packs?
The price of Skylanders starter packs significantly influences the quality and features included in the set.
- Basic Starter Packs: These are typically priced lower and include a limited number of characters and accessories. They often provide a good entry point for new players but may lack the variety and advanced features found in more expensive packs.
- Standard Starter Packs: Priced in the mid-range, these packs usually come with additional characters and enhanced gameplay elements. They often include exclusive items that can enhance the gaming experience and provide better value for players looking to expand their collection.
- Deluxe Starter Packs: These high-priced packs generally contain a larger assortment of characters, additional gameplay content, and exclusive in-game items. The quality is higher due to the inclusion of special edition figures and often feature enhanced packaging and collectible aspects that appeal to serious fans.
- Limited Edition Starter Packs: These are often the most expensive and can include rare characters, unique gameplay features, and themed content. They cater to collectors and dedicated fans, offering exclusive items that are not available in standard packs, which can significantly enhance the overall value and experience.