Expert Review: Cepia’s Zhu Zhu Aquarium Fish and Playsets

This collectible range of battery-operated plush fish toys and playsets from Cepia is inspired by the original Zhu Zhu Pets brand that gained popularity back in 2009. It features land-swimming tropical fish and an assortment of connect-together tunnel pieces, ramps, and vehicles. There are six tropical fish to collect in the first “school,” with more on the way.

The original Zhu Zhu Pets were a massive hit upon their launch in 2009. While the brand already relaunched once back in 2017, it’s been off the market just long enough to conjure up some neo-stalgic feelings thanks to the pairing of a new, aquatic theme with the classic Zhu Zhu play pattern.

When we first went hands-on with this line at Toy Fair in New York last fall, we loved seeing the colorful fish zoom through an endless array of connecting tubes and playful accessories that kids can reconfigure for a unique “underwater” experience without getting wet. Since each fish has a built-in bump sensor, they can quickly back up and change direction when they meet an obstacle.

While the interactive fish are sold separately in single packs, kids can also collect the Bubble Ball and Surf Board Set, Speedboat and Dock Set, and Submarine Set.

Each Zhu Zhu Aquarium fish requires 2 AA batteries (not included). Grown-ups should keep in mind that fish are not included with the playsets and vehicles, so gift-givers will want to make sure that they pick up at least one fish if they’re not buying for a kid with an existing collection. There is no word yet on whether or not the original, hamster-style Zhu Zhu Pets will return.

Kids and families who want an aquarium but don’t have the time or space to deal with real-life fresh or saltwater fish. Zhu Zhu Aquarium fish are also sized right for travel and can run on just about any flat surface with or without their track tunnels or vehicles.