Recess Tropic Alien Review
Price/specs:
$49.99-54.99 USD
Diameter: 56.57
Width: 44.62
Weight: 66.31
Material: 6061 aluminum
Overview: The Recess Tropic Alien is the signature model of 2x Malaysian National Champion Zafran Aqil. Recess is a company that is focused on creating fun yoyos so when you pair their dedication to the love of throwing with a highly-skilled yoyo competitor, you get a well balanced yoyo that can compete but also can be enjoyed in a more relaxed setting.
Design: The Tropic Alien is a comfortable and unique V/H shaped yoyo. The yoyo is comfortable in both the hand and on the catch. The majority of the weight is placed on the rims, but it also has a decent amount of mid weight due to a step in the cup. The width is fairly standard but seems to be a little slim compared to current competition trends. The weight is also heavier than the current trends. The Tropic Alien has whimsical laser engravings and attractive color options that push the idea that this yoyo is meant to be fun. I have the space loot colorway and it is absolutely gorgeous!
Performance: The tropic alien is long spinning and stable. I have not had any issues with the yoyo dying out during long combos and I have been impressed by its binds. Binds have been consistent and I have experienced little snag. Though the yoyo is not as wide as current competition trends (45-48mm), I, personally have not experienced difficulties with catchability. This yoyo won’t give you any advantages when trying to hit difficult hooks and whips, but the width allows the yoyo to be very versatile allowing the yoyo to perform well in tight mounts while also providing enough catchability to hit slacks, whips, hooks, and bangers. The finish is smooth allowing for decent grinds and the yoyo itself spins pretty smoothly. I would put it at an 8 out of ten. It feels mostly smooth when playing but you can feel some vibe when touching the yoyo with your finger. Finger spins are doable but the laser engraving makes them feel unpleasant.
The yoyo feels really balanced, leaning very slightly on the heavy end of the spectrum. It plays lighter than a silenus, but heavier than a kenshin or a flank. If I were to compare the weight in play to any yoyo, it would be the recognition. The tropic alien prefers to operate at a mid-fast speed but can move really quickly or slow down as desired.
Soul: This is where the Tropic Alien shines. It has great performance aspects, but when you throw it, you know it was meant to be fun. The added midweight gives the yoyo a unique feel in play and the shape just calls you back for more. I was experiencing a throwing crisis where I was having difficulty finding joy in throwing. During that time, the tropic alien was one of the few yoyos I owned that would give me pure joy while throwing. It has a wow-factor that is hard to describe in words, but is undeniable in play.
Final Thoughts: This yoyo is currently one of my favorites. The design, beauty, performance, and play speak to me on almost a spiritual level. At 49.99 to 54.99 the price is right. For me, this is an incredibly easy recommendation. Those looking for their first boutique yoyo, a competition level-up, or just something fun will all find something to enjoy. Well done Recess!
