I read the reviews on this before buying it and most were pretty much dead on. It was easy to assemble with a sturdy base.  It definitely can hold the cats playing on it.  And the one review was right...it took a couple days for the cats to really check it out and start using it.  Now, there's usually at least one in it at most times with up to 5 on it.  We have 11 indoor cats ranging in weight from 10 lbs to 14 lbs...this tree is great for them and we didn't even have to anchor it!  And we took the advice and sprayed cat nip on the scratching surfaces and the love it.