Toronto-based Bakugan is a collectible toy that is also a game.

Toronto toy breaking out

Bakugan Battle Brawlers has everything. Produced in Toronto by Spin Master, the tiny spheres can be collected, transformed, used in a board game, or even watched on TV as a cartoon.

Bakugan (pronounced BACK-oo-gon) are brightly coloured balls that spring into action – transforming from marbles to tiny monsters – when rolled onto the game board.

Players battle it out against one another, using points, special abilities and the strategic selection of which Bakugan to send into battle. There are also a few shooting tricks they can deploy.

Toy experts say the local invention is a "breakout hit" across North America, noting some stores are having trouble keeping it on the shelves.

There are more than 100 collectible Bakugan warriors, each with different powers and personalities. New characters are introduced every two months. Accessories are also available through an interactive website.

The game has wide appeal, but it's boys from ages 6 to 11 who have really caught Bakugan fever.

The toy and accessories range from $6 to $30.