I expect Bachmann USA Xmas products to be a bit weird (and this set doesn't disappoint on that front!) but have to admit I actually quite like it. It's clearly more expensive than Hornby's offerings but the loco and rolling stock are attractive and seem to run nicely. The track with sturdy pre-formed plastic base is great for youngsters and the controller looks like quite a decent one for a novelty set. Pretty good all round I think.