Forest Skittles vs Round Tower Tumbling Blocks: Outdoor Games
By RSPCA Shop | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Comparisons
Compare Forest Skittles and Round Tower Tumbling Blocks for outdoor kids games. See which children's garden game suits your family's play style.
Quick answer
Choose Forest Skittles for active outdoor play with younger children, or Round Tower Tumbling Blocks for a strategic stacking challenge that works indoors and out.
Active vs strategic play
Forest Skittles is a classic bowling-style game where you roll a ball to knock down six wooden skittles. It encourages running, aiming, and quick turns, making it ideal for energetic outdoor sessions.
Round Tower Tumbling Blocks is a dexterity game where players remove and reposition bricks without toppling the tower. It rewards patience and steady hands, and can be played on a picnic blanket or indoors.
Age range and setup
Forest Skittles is recommended for ages 3 and up (the skittles are lightweight and the ball is soft enough for young children). It includes six skittles, one ball, instructions, and a handy storage bag for easy transport.
Round Tower Tumbling Blocks is recommended for ages 8 and over due to the precision required. It features two different shaped blocks and color-coded play options, adding complexity for older kids and adults.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Forest Skittles: Active, physical play. Knock down skittles by rolling a ball. Suitable for ages 3+. Comes with storage bag. Best for outdoor energy burn and younger children who enjoy running and aiming.
- Round Tower Tumbling Blocks: Strategic, steady-handed stacking. Remove and reposition blocks without toppling the tower. For ages 8+. Works indoors or on a flat surface outdoors. Best for older kids and adults who enjoy a calm, focused challenge.
- Key trade-off: Forest Skittles offers instant gratification and active fun; Round Tower Tumbling Blocks requires patience and precision. One is not better—they suit different moods and settings. Consider buying both for variety, or pick based on the child's age and preferred play style.
Product facts
- Forest Skittles: Includes 6 skittles, 1 ball and instructions, comes with a handy storage bag. Great for indoor or outdoor use. The storage bag makes it easy to take to the park or garden, and the indoor option means rainy days don't stop the fun.
Forest Skittles - Round Tower Tumbling Blocks: Two different shaped blocks and color-coded play options. For ages 8 and over. The varied block shapes increase the challenge, and assigning colors to players adds a strategic layer that keeps older children engaged.
Round Tower Tumbling Blocks
Which game fits your family?
Best for
- Families with children aged 3-7 who love active outdoor games
- A quick, easy-to-set-up garden activity that includes a storage bag for portability
Not for
- Older children or adults seeking a strategic, precision-based challenge (choose Round Tower Tumbling Blocks instead)
- Very small spaces where a rolling ball could be problematic
