Quick answer
To set up the Tonieplay Gabby's Dollhouse game, place the Tonie figure on your Toniebox, turn on the included controller, and follow the audio prompts. The controller pairs automatically when the game starts. If it doesn't, power-cycle the controller and reseat the Tonie. This game is designed for ages 3 and up and works best when kids have a clear space to move and listen.
What comes in the box and what you need before you start
The Tonieplay Gabby's Dollhouse: Gabby's Cat-tastic Scavenger Hunt Game & Controller includes the game Tonie and a wireless controller. You'll also need a Toniebox that is charged or plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi if you want to download the audio ahead of time. The game uses the puzzle map of Gabby's Dollhouse that appears on screen-free play—there's no screen involved, so the map is described in the audio and on the included physical map. Make sure you have 3 AAA batteries for the controller; they are not included.
Step 1: Place the Tonie on the box and let it load
Turn on your Toniebox and place the Gabby's Dollhouse Tonie on top. The box will recognize the Tonie and begin downloading or playing the game audio. The first time you use it, allow a minute or two for the content to load if you're streaming. A common mistake is lifting the Tonie too soon—wait until you hear the welcome message or see the light stop pulsing. If nothing happens, check that the Toniebox is connected to Wi-Fi and the battery has charge.
Step 2: Turn on the controller and pair it
Press the power button on the controller. It should pair automatically with the Toniebox within a few seconds. If it doesn't, hold the pairing button (usually on the back or bottom) until the light blinks rapidly, then release. The Toniebox will confirm pairing with a sound. Keep the controller within 10 feet of the box during pairing. A common mistake is pressing buttons on the controller before pairing is complete—this can interrupt the process. If pairing fails, turn both devices off, wait 10 seconds, and try again.
Step 3: Start the scavenger hunt and learn the controls
Once paired, the game begins with an introduction from Gabby. The controller has a directional pad and buttons for actions like 'look' and 'pick up'. The game will prompt your child to use the puzzle map to find hidden objects. Encourage them to listen for clues and press the corresponding direction. There's no wrong way to play—the goal is to help CatRat on his sandwich quest. If your child gets stuck, pressing the 'help' button (often the center button) will replay the last instruction.
Step 4: Adjust volume and manage play sessions
Use the volume buttons on the Toniebox or the controller to set a comfortable level. The game includes songs from the show, so you may want to lower the volume during musical sections. Tonieplay games are designed for ages 3+, but younger kids may need help holding the controller. Play sessions can last as long as your child stays engaged; there's no timer, but you can pause by lifting the Tonie or pressing the pause button on the controller. A common mistake is letting the controller battery die mid-game—check the battery indicator before starting.
Troubleshooting common issues
If the controller stops responding, replace the batteries first. If the game freezes or audio stutters, lift the Tonie and place it back on the box to restart. For persistent pairing problems, try clearing the pairing memory by holding the pairing button for 10 seconds until the light flashes red, then pair again. If the Toniebox itself is unresponsive, a soft reset (holding both volume buttons for 10 seconds) often helps. Always check that the Tonie is seated flat on the box—a tilted Tonie can cause connection issues.
Setup and play checklist
- Place the Tonie and wait for the welcome: Set the Gabby's Dollhouse Tonie on the Toniebox and wait until the audio starts or the light stops pulsing. Checkpoint: If nothing happens after 30 seconds, check Wi-Fi and battery.
- Power on the controller and pair: Press the power button; if it doesn't pair automatically, hold the pairing button until the light blinks, then release. Checkpoint: The Toniebox should play a confirmation sound. If not, retry pairing.
- Start the game and use the map: Follow Gabby's prompts, use the directional pad to explore, and refer to the puzzle map to find hidden objects. Checkpoint: Press the help button if your child needs a clue repeated.
- Manage volume and battery: Adjust volume as needed and ensure the controller has fresh batteries before long play sessions. Checkpoint: Replace batteries if the controller becomes unresponsive.
Product facts
- Tonieplay Gabby's Dollhouse: Gabby's Cat-tastic Scavenger Hunt Game & Controller: In this Tonieplay Game, kids step into Gabby's Dollhouse filled with magical adventures! Made for ages 3+, kids can use the included puzzle map of Gabby's Dollhouse to uncover hidden objects, enjoy songs from the show, and help CatRat on his sandwich quest for hours of fun and adventure. Knowing the age range and included map helps you set expectations and prepare a play space. The map is a physical component, so keep it handy during setup.
