My son became and "addict" when we moved to Mystic, CT and we had a train that would pass near our house - I think we've spent a small fortune in Thomas memorialbila (crap as my husband and I call it) and well let's say we thought it was a phase, but have found that anything Thomas he wants! I guess when you look on how much he plays with it - it's totally worth it to see him happy and keep him entertained!