I'd give this set a 2.5-star rating. It's fun, especially for younger toddlers who love squishing sand and pushing light plastic vehicles. But if what you (or your child) really wants is realistic, long-lasting construction play with “real” feeling vehicles, a die-cast construction set is likely a better investment.
It's a good starter sensory-construction toy, but it's not quite in the same class as a sturdy, realistic die-cast set when it comes to durability and play depth.
The fluffy sand is definitely a highlight. It's tactile, squeezable, and fun — it gives kids that sandbox feel indoors, which is great for sensory play and imaginative “digging” without the mess of real sand. While the fluffy sand is fun, it may not hold together as well as real kinetic sand or be as moldable in detailed ways. Over time, the sand might lose its texture or clump, depending on how it's stored or used.
The “pull-back” mechanism is fine for a short burst of play, but it can feel repetitive. For kids who outgrow the sandbox-style play, there might be less appeal compared to a more realistic vehicle set that's more versatile.