31 Products That Might Unexpectedly Become Your Favorite Thing You've Ever Owned

30 High-Five-Worthy Amazon "Internet Famous" Products

Buzz Feed

2 hours ago

Buzz Feed

30 High-Five-Worthy Amazon "Internet Famous" Products

Fun fact: Amazon has an "Internet Famous" section curated with TikTok-viral products. Here are a few of the current ones so beloved by reviewers that they are *definitely* worth the hype: Jergens Natural Glow Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion that'll give you the bronzed glow of a spray tan without paying an expensive monthly fee at your local spray tanning salon. Just swipe this on like you would any body lotion, and you should start to see results within a few days. (Most reviewers see results after the third or fourth application.) It's also formulated with elastin, collagen, and green tea extracts to help firm and hydrate your skin while you get your glow on. A racerback workout top made with ribbed fabric so soft, it'll probably become your go-to on days when working out isn't even near the itinerary. No matter when you wear it, the racerback design will keep things cool and breezy all day. The iconic and wildly viral Clinique tinted lip balm in Black Honey, which is designed to give you a natural "your lips, but better" look thanks to its blend of blue, red, and yellow pigments. Don't let the super deep color in the tube scare you — it goes on super sheer and applies more like a lip balm than a lipstick. A hummingbird projection lantern that'll make you feel like you stepped into an enchanted forest every time you go outside. With 8–10 hours of charging via the solar panel, this whimsical beauty will light up for up to 10 hours. Unfortunately, fairies are not included. A popular foot exfoliant treatment — the results are equal parts disgusting and oh-so-satisfying. Just pop these plastic booties on your feet, then kick back for 60 minutes. Within one to two weeks, the dead skin on your feet will literally start to peel off (gross!) and reveal the supremely soft skin that was hiding underneath. (Satisfying!) Skala's Mais Cacho Hair 2-in-1 Conditioning Treatment that's truly a multitasking marvel. You can use it as an in-shower conditioner by applying it to clean hair and rinsing out after three minutes, or you can apply it as a leave-in treatment for all-day moisture that won't weigh your curls down. A waterproof, super lightweight JBL Go 3 speaker — now you'll have the perfect way to blast your ☀️⛵️😎 Summer Vibezzzz ☀️⛵️😎 playlist, because let's be honest, your iPhone's speaker simply isn't cutting it. You'll get five hours of playtime on a single charge, so your pool day will probably already be over by the time "low battery, please charge" interrupts "Walking On Sunshine." A set of easy-to-build Lego daffodils so you can enjoy all the perks of being a plant parent (staring at your beautiful babies and basking in the immaculate vibes they provide) without all of the cons of being a plant parent (having to water them, ensure they have sunshine, fungus gnats, etc). Or a set of ridiculously realistic-looking faux fern plants — you can fool your neighbors into thinking you've suddenly developed a green thumb overnight. If you choose overnight shipping, they're technically not wrong! These are made of fade-resistant silk and plastic, and the wires in the middle of each frond allow you to bend them for a custom look. Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 59 Hair & Body Perfume Mist, a delicious blend of sugared violet, vanilla orchid, and sandalwood that basically smells like frolicking in a field of flowers while catching fireflies. Reviewers say it lasts for a long time, so you won't have to worry about carrying this around for touchups all day. A pack of the Mighty Patch Pimple Spot Treatment — they're made of a wound-healing gel called hydrocolloid that can drain fluids from any open pimples and cover any that are already on the surface. Many reviewers say they're practically undetectable and adhere much better to the skin than other brands. Plus, your derm will be very relieved that you aren't popping it! A cruelty-free lengthening Essence mascara with a whopping 253,000 5-star ratings and some seriously impressive before and after photos. Oh, did I mention it's UNDER $5?! Some reviewers even compare it to expensive brands like Tarte 👀. Unlike other mascaras at previous price points, reviewers say this one doesn't easily clump or smudge throughout the day and is suitable for sensitive eyes. A bottle of Lottabody's super fluffy mousse, which gives you the same curls and bounce of an expensive heat tool in a $4 bottle of magic. Just scrunch some of this through your towel-dried hair and let the blend of coconut oil and shea butter add some extra moisture and bounce to your curls. Reviewers say it's super lightweight and never leaves behind a greasy or sticky residue. A L'Oreal Infallible setting spray that takes just three seconds to apply to your whole face (thanks to wide-spraying microfine mist) and claims to help your makeup last for up to a whopping 36 hours. If you don't feel like parting with $32 dollars for the super viral One Size On 'Til Dawn setting spray, reviewers say this might just work even better. A super convenient D'alba Piedmont spray-on serum to help you get that dewy ~glass skin~ glow in just a few spritzes — so it's perfect for all my fellow lazy skincare lovers. The secret is the Italian white truffle extract, which is meant to help hydrate and brighten. It's also formulated with niacinamide to help even out skin tone and hyaluronic acid for extra moisture. A heat-activated ColorWow anti-frizz treatment that will become a must-have if humidity is your hair's archnemesis. It's designed to provide a protective coating on your strands that helps repel moisture and leaves behind a glass-like shine. Just apply it before you blow-dry, and the glossy results will last for up to three shampoos! A pair of high-waisted biker shorts for those of you who just can't give up the comfort of leggings but don't want to trap in extra heat. These give you the same comfort level while allowing your legs to breathe. This particular pair is loved since the waistband stays put all day long and for the spacious pockets! E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, which might just convince you to save some cash and hold off on trying those Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Dew Drops you've been eyeing. This super lightweight serum is meant to provide an instant ✨glow✨ to the skin, whether you wear it on its own, under foundation, or mixed into your foundation for a radiant finish. Prepare for the onslaught of compliments coming your way. A Moroccanoil treatment that's the absolute definition of a multitasker. Its blend of argan oil and linseed extract can help tame flyaways, detangle, and add some shine. Just apply it to your damp or dry hair from mid-length to ends and let it work its magic. A bottle of Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil to help moisturize and reduce the appearance of scars thanks to a special blend of vitamin A, chamomile, sunflower, lavender, and vitamin E oils. A cropped tank top-style sports bra that has rave reviews for providing support without skimping on comfort. It features removable cups for a more customized feel and the sweat-wicking material makes it perfect for intense workouts. La Roche-Posay's foaming cleanser for anyone whose skin can't seem to decide if it's oily or dry. (I feel your pain.) It provides enough foaming action to break down excess oil and dirt but is still gentle enough to not irritate your dry spots, thanks to the soothing prebiotic thermal water and restoring niacinamide. A wire-free bra that's earned a jaw-dropping 32,000+ rave ratings from reviewers who say it's super lightweight (like, you might forget you even have it on) while still feeling supportive. Oh — and the straps don't flip and get contorted throughout the day! Imagine not daydreaming about going home so you can finally take your bra off!!! An SPF 46 EltaMD face sunscreen, which reviewers say is a game-changer for acne-prone and sensitive skin since it absorbs super quickly without any residue. The inclusion of niacinamide helps reduce redness and irritation, and it's also a perfect base for makeup, thanks to its fast-absorbing formula. Or an Abib Airy SPF 50+ Sunstick Smoothing Bar — this popular K-beauty pick has a unique curved design that practically hugs your cheekbones as you glide it on. It's also perfect for precisely gliding along your hairline or the sides of your nose, and the semi-matte formula will keep you glowy without looking like a disco ball. The iconic Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, which will have you waking up saying "new lips, who dis?" It's packed with murumuru seed and shea butter to make your lips feel silky smooth and vitamin C to protect your pout. It's racked up over 35,000 rave ratings so far, with many reviewers saying it takes care of flaky, dry skin overnight. Laura Geller's Baked Balance-n-Brighten Color Correcting Powder Foundation — swirling your brush in this compact will feel like whipping up an invisibility spell for uneven skin tone. It's racked up over 31,000 rave ratings, with many reviewers saying it feels super lightweight on the skin and doesn't settle in fine lines. The wildly popular Topicals Faded Serum, which helps to fade dark spots in as little as two weeks, if that's something you'd like to do. It's formulated with kojic acid to help brighten any discoloration, while niacinamide adds an extra glow and protects the skin barrier. Just spread a thin layer on after cleansing but before moisturizing — reviewers say the results take time, but it's so worth it. Nyx's extreme hold eyebrow gel to keep your brows in place for a whopping 16 hours. Unlike the other countless brow gels collecting dust in your makeup drawer, this one is designed to dry down without a sticky finish — and it won't flake throughout the day!

Kids Loved This Toy the Year You Were Born

Yahoo

5 hours ago

Yahoo

Kids Loved This Toy the Year You Were Born

From plastic potato heads to robotic hamsters, the most popular toy the year you were born says a lot about the trends and culture of that moment in time. Some toys took off thanks to blockbuster movies or Saturday morning cartoons, while others gained traction through viral internet fame or playground buzz. Whether techy, cuddly, or totally unexpected, these popular toys captured kids' imaginations — and parents' wallets — year after year. This list rounds up the most iconic, in-demand toy for each year from 1950 through 2025 (so far!). Some have become enduring childhood staples, like LEGO, Barbie, and Nintendo. Others were short-lived sensations that came and went in a flash. (Remember Pogs?) Whether driven by innovation, celebrity tie-ins, or good old-fashioned fun, each toy earned its moment in the spotlight. So whether you're feeling nostalgic for your own childhood favorite or just curious about what your kids are obsessed with now, scroll through for a playful walk down memory lane — and find out what was hot the year you were Little People first appeared in 1950 as part of the Looky Fire Truck. These small, peg-shaped characters became a staple in toddler toys and helped children develop imagination and storytelling through simple, durable Potato Head has the distinction of being the first toy ever advertised on TV. Kids originally used real potatoes to create goofy characters using the included plastic parts, making it a wildly novel and customizable toy when it on the original Slinky craze, Slinky Dog debuted in 1952 as a pull toy with a coiled metal body. It charmed kids with its springy, bouncing motion and wagging tail as it rolled across the not widely sold until later, early development of Chatty Cathy began around 1953. The talking doll amazed kids by saying recorded phrases when you pulled a string, a pioneering feature that made it one of the first interactive marketed and sold as a wallpaper cleaner, Play-Doh later sold as a colorful modeling compound in the '50s. Its fun texture and bright colors made it a hit with kids for creative Putty was actually invented during World War II, and became a favorite toy by the mid-1950s. It could bounce, stretch, break, and even lift comic strips off newspaper pages, captivating kids with its oddball, hands-on started out as a stop-motion TV character before he became a bendable green toy figure. Along with his horse Pokey, Gumby became a 1950s icon that encouraged imaginative their reusable vinyl stick-ons and bold, colorful backgrounds, Colorforms let kids create endless scenes and stories... with no mess. From basic shapes to licensed characters, these peel-and-stick sets sparked imagination and became a staple in mid-century playrooms.A simple plastic ring became a full-blown national obsession in 1958. The Hula Hoop, popularized by Wham-O, had kids spinning, twirling, and competing in backyard battles across the country. At its peak, millions were sold each month, proof that the best toys don't need the iconic Barbie made her debut in 1959, it was nothing short of a revolution in the doll world. With her glamorous outfits, high heels, and grown-up lifestyle, Barbie offered a new kind of imaginative play — one where kids could dream big about grown-up life. She wasn't just a doll; she was a fashion model, astronaut, doctor and more paving the way for decades of role play and reinvention (not to mention a blockbuster movie decades down the road).Part toy, part drawing tool, Etch A Sketch let kids create art with just two knobs — no pencils or paper needed. The red-framed screen felt like magic, erasing instantly with a quick shake. It became an instant classic and a must-have for budding artists or everyday its smiling face, spinning dial, and wobbly wheels, the Chatter Telephone made talking on the 'phone' endlessly fun for toddlers. It encouraged pretend play and early communication skills. Plus, pulling it around by its string made it feel like a friendly little their wild hair and wide-eyed grins, Troll dolls were weird, whimsical and wildly popular. Originally created by a Danish woodcutter, these quirky little figures became a surprise hit in the U.S., sparking a full-blown craze that would return again and again over the decades (eventually as a huge movie franchise).Baking got kid-sized with the Easy-Bake Oven, which used a simple lightbulb to 'cook' mini cakes and cookies. It gave kids a taste of independence in the kitchen... and a warm, sweet treat to show for it. The nostalgia factor to this day? Still piping as the first 'action figure,' G.I. Joe marched onto the scene in 1964 and redefined toys marketed to boys in that era. With movable joints, military gear, and a backstory for every figure, G.I. Joe sparked a new kind of imaginative play centered around adventure, bravery, and buzzy board game turned the seriousness of surgery into silly fun. Players used tweezers to remove tiny 'ailments' from Cavity Sam without touching the edges, or risk setting off that iconic red nose and startling buzzer. Operation combined laughter and anticipation with a steady-hand challenge that kids turned math concepts (boring for kids!) into mesmerizing art (super fun for kids!). Using gears, rings, and colored pens, kids could draw endless looping patterns and intricate designs. It was part creativity, part precision and totally captivating once you started let kids create glowing masterpieces by plugging colorful pegs into a backlit screen. Whether following a template or freestyling, the result was pure magic, especially when the lights dimmed. It was creative, calming and just the right amount of retro-futuristic sleek, die-cast vehicles from Mattel featured flashy designs and ultra-fast wheels, turning any floor or track into a high-speed racetrack. Kids raced, collected and customized them — fueling a craze that's still going strong the Apollo 11 mission captured the world's imagination, Snoopy suited up in his own space gear. Released to celebrate the moon landing, the Snoopy Astronaut doll let kids bring home a piece of history with their favorite beagle leading the and sold as the 'world's first indoor ball,' the original Nerf Ball was soft, squishy, and safe to toss around the house — no risk of broken lamps or bruised siblings. It kicked off the iconic Nerf brand and proved that foam could be seriously fun.'Weebles wobble but they don't fall down!' These egg-shaped figures with weighted bottoms were a toddler favorite in the early '70s. No matter how far you tilted them, they always bounced back, making them endlessly entertaining and nearly impossible to to learn and play but full of surprises, Uno quickly became a family game night favorite. The colorful cards, wild rules and satisfying 'Draw Four' moments made it a hit across generations and a staple in every toy drawer even to this Alive brought pretend play to a new level with a doll that could eat, drink and even needed a diaper change. Kids loved the lifelike caregiving experience while parents loved watching their little ones eager to take on Magna Doodle debuted in 1974, captivating kids with its mess-free magnetic drawing magic. Using a special magnetic pen children could sketch pictures or write messages that appeared like magic on the screen — then swipe the slider to erase it all instantly. Its simplicity and reusability made it a go-to toy for car rides, classroom fun and creative play at home. It was durable, portable, and endlessly sounds like a joke — and that's because it kind of was. Created by advertising executive Gary Dahl, the Pet Rock was literally a smooth stone sold in a cardboard box with breathing holes and straw bedding. Marketed as the ideal low-maintenance companion, the novelty toy became a full-blown craze in the mid-'70s. Kids loved the silliness of having a 'pet' they didn't have to feed, walk, or clean up after. At its peak, more than a million Pet Rocks were sold, proving that with the right spin, even a rock could become a national Armstrong could stretch, twist, and bend like no other toy. Filled with a mysterious goo and encased in a muscular latex body, Stretch could be pulled up to four feet and still snap back to shape. Kids loved testing his limits, and Stretch Armstrong was unlike anything else at the Star Wars hit theaters that year, its impact was masssive. Kenner's action figures let kids bring the epic saga home, fueling an unprecedented demand for the tabletop playthings. They quickly became coveted collectibles and launched a new era of movie its flashing lights and catchy tones, Simon challenged players to memorize and repeat increasingly complex sequences. It was a game, it was a brain teaser and it became an instant classic — equally fun as it was futuristic (for the time).The Atari 2600 brought arcade action into the living room and helped launch the home video game revolution. With blocky graphics and joystick controls, it introduced classics like Space Invaders and Asteroids and changed how kids played colorful puzzle cube took the world by storm in 1980. Simple in appearance but devilishly tricky to solve, the Rubik's Cube challenged kids (and adults) to twist their way to victory and kicked off a worldwide brainteaser blue and irresistibly collectible, Smurfs figurines were based on the beloved Belgian cartoon. These hand-painted PVC figures came in endless variations and kids loved building their own Smurf villages and hunting for rare their colorful bodies, brushable manes and sweet names like Cotton Candy and Blue Belle, My Little Pony figures galloped straight into kids' hearts. Each pony had its own personality and symbol, making them endlessly collectible and perfect for imaginative their pudgy cheeks and yarn hair, Cabbage Patch Kids sparked a full-blown holiday shopping frenzy in 1983. Each one came with a unique name and its own 'adoption papers,' making them feel one-of-a-kind — something kids (and parents, forced to scour stores) couldn't get enough instantly captured '80s imaginations with their ability to shift from vehicles into heroic robots. Led by Optimus Prime and Megatron, the battle between Autobots and Decepticons played out in toy form, comics, and a hit animated series. Their unique 'more than meets the eye' gimmick made them endlessly fun to play with, and turned them into a pop culture juggernaut still going strong decades moving eyes and a mouth that 'read' stories aloud via cassette tape, Teddy Ruxpin felt like a magical storytelling companion. Kids were mesmerized by the animatronic bear who quickly became the year's most talked-about (and hardest to find) this futuristic game, players wore sensor-equipped vests and wielded infrared 'blasters,' scoring hits with light beams instead of foam darts or water. It felt like real-life sci-fi action inspired by the popularity of Star Wars and the arcade its rubbery strands and satisfyingly squishy feel, the Koosh Ball was a toy and stress reliever in one. Easy to catch and fun to fling it became a hit in classrooms and living rooms (and on office desks) 1988, the Nintendo Entertainment System had become a full-blown cultural force. Though it debuted earlier, this was the year titles like Super Mario Bros. 2 and Zelda II cemented the NES as the console to own. With its simple controller, iconic 8-bit graphics and awesome game library, the NES defined a whole generation of home Nintendo Game Boy forever changed how (and where) people played video games. This pocket-sized device brought portable gaming mainstream, with its grayscale screen, swappable cartridges, and unbeatable battery life. Bundled with Tetris, the Game Boy became an instant classic, captivating players of all ages and laying the foundation for handheld gaming as we know In 1990, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures were everywhere — from toy store shelves to school backpacks. Fueled by the hit cartoon and live-action movie, the toy line let kids collect all four pizza-loving heroes (Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael), plus villains like Shredder and breakout hit toy brought 16-bit gaming magic to living rooms in 1991 setting a new standard for home consoles. With classics like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Street Fighter II, the SNES delivered richer graphics, deeper gameplay and iconic soundtracks. It became a defining game console of the '90s and solidified Nintendo's legacy in the 1992, the Barbie Dreamhouse had evolved into a full-blown pink palace — complete with working lights, a ringing telephone and stylish plastic furniture. This iconic playset gave kids a glamorous space to bring their Barbie stories to life, whether she was hosting a pool party, relaxing in her canopy bed or making calls from her cordless phone. With multiple levels and rooms, the playhouse offered just about endless imaginative possibilities and cemented Barbie's status as a fashion-forward homeowner living her best a movie prop in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, the Talkboy became a real-life sensation in 1993. This silver handheld recorder let kids slow down their voices, record goofy messages and play them back for endless laughs — just like Kevin McCallister did. With its extendable microphone and futuristic design, the Talkboy felt like a gadget straight out of a spy the massive success of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers on TV, the action figures became one of 1994's hottest toys. Kids could collect their favorite Rangers and reenact battles against villains like Rita Repulsa and Lord Zedd. With their martial arts poses, morphing accessories, and Zords that combined into Megazords, these toys became a major cardboard discs took schoolyards by storm in the mid-'90s. Kids stacked, flipped, and battled Pogs using heavy 'slammers,' turning recess into a full-on competition. With endless designs to collect, Pogs were as much about trading as they were about Me Elmo became a full-blown cultural craze during the 1996 holiday season. The fuzzy red Sesame Street character would giggle and shake when squeezed, sending kids into fits of laughter — and sending parents into a frenzy trying to find one. Stores sold out within minutes, sparking stampedes and sky-high resale pocket-sized digital pet from Japan required constant care — feeding, cleaning, and attention — or it would 'die,' making it both adorable and anxiety-inducing (an addictive combo). Kids became instantly obsessed, checking on their pixelated pals between classes and taking the responsibility debuted in 1998 and instantly captivated kids with its blinking eyes, moving beak and ability to 'learn' language over time. The furry, owl-like creature spoke its own language (Furbish, of course) before gradually switching to English, creating the illusion of intelligence. Its interactive nature and quirky personality sparked a massive holiday craze making Furby one of the most sought-after toys of the late ' the turn of the new millennium, Pokémon cards turned playgrounds into bustling trading hubs. Based on the wildly popular video games and animated series, the collectible card game let kids battle with their favorite characters like Pikachu, Charizard and Mewtwo. Rare cards became valuable, coveted Razor Scooter burst onto the scene in 2000 and became an instant phenomenon. Lightweight, foldable, and fun to ride, it was the must-have toy for kids (and even some adults) looking to zip around the neighborhood. Its sleek aluminum design and smooth-rolling wheels made it cooler than a bike and portable enough to carry into class or stash under the bed. Razor reportedly sold over 5 million scooters in its first year alone, making it one of the most iconic toys of the dolls hit the shelves in 2001 with a bold, fashion-forward attitude that shook up the doll aisle; they had oversized eyes, glossy lips, and edgy outfits. Characters like Cloe, Yasmin, Jade and Sasha offered a modern alternative to traditional dolls. Bratz quickly became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for their diverse looks and cool toy combined fast-paced battles with customizable spinning tops. Kids launched their Beyblades into plastic arenas, watching them clash and knock each other out. Based on a Japanese anime, the toy's "Let it rip!" catchphrase became a playground marched onto the scene in 2003 as one of the first mass-market robots to combine real movement, personality and playability. Created by a NASA scientist, this humanoid robot could walk, dance, burp and even grab objects, controlled entirely by a its dual screens, touch controls, and built-in Wi-Fi, the Nintendo DS felt like the future of handheld gaming. From Nintendogs to Mario Kart, it delivered endless fun on the go, and became an instant must-have for release of the Xbox 360 marked in a new era of high-def gaming and online multiplayer experiences. With a cool design, a robust library of games like Halo 3 and Gears of War, and the rise of Xbox Live, it became serious gamers' absolute must-have toy. In addition to providing gameplay at home, it also connected players around the world, a feature that set the stage for modern online gaming Nintendo Wii revolutionized gaming in 2006 when it came out with its motion-sensing controls. Instead of traditional button-mashing, players swung, aimed and moved to play — whether bowling, boxing, or battling. The console attracted gamers of all ages and quickly became a household staple, selling over 100 million the music power of an iPod with the touchscreen magic of the iPhone, the iPod Touch was the ultimate tech toy in 2007. Kids and teens were obsessed with downloading apps, watching videos and showing off their sleek new innovative toy combined action figures, trading cards and magnetic pop-up transformations into one thrilling experience. Kids rolled marble-shaped Bakugan onto special cards, causing them to spring open into fierce creatures. Backed by a hit anime series, Bakugan quickly became a must-have collectible and strategic playground robotic hamsters scurried, squeaked and zipped through plastic tunnels, giving kids all the fun of a pet without the mess. Zhu Zhu Pets were an instant hit, flying off shelves during the holiday season thanks to their cuteness and first iPad launched a tablet revolution, and quickly became a must-have for families. With its big screen, intuitive design, and endless apps, the iPad was both a cutting-edge gadget and the coolest toy in the learning with touchscreen fun, the LeapPad Explorer was like a kid-friendly tablet packed with educational games and e-books. Parents loved the focus on reading and math, while kids loved feeling like they had a 'real' device of their brought toys to life... literally. Kids could place real action figures on a "Portal of Power" to transport them into the video game. The mix of physical play and digital adventure made it one of the hottest trends of the simple plastic loom sparked a DIY craze, as kids everywhere used tiny rubber bands to weave colorful bracelets. Rainbow Loom was creative, collectible, and a playground must-have. Plus, it got kids totally hooked on Frozen mania swept the globe, Elsa dolls became the most coveted toy of the year. With her sparkly blue gown and signature braid, the Snow Queen let kids bring the magic — not to mention the earworm — of "Let it Go" app-controlled droid rolled straight out of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and into kids' hearts. With lifelike movements and personality-packed responses, BB-8 felt like your very own robot fuzzy, animatronic creatures hatched from speckled eggs with a little help from their owners, creating a magical unboxing moment. The surprise element — and the cute toys inside — made Hatchimals an instant sellout started as a stress-relief tool turned into a playground craze. Fidget spinners were everywhere in 2017, with kids mastering tricks and showing off colorful designs that spun for minutes at a fun reached new heights with L.O.L. Surprise Dolls, which came hidden inside layers of colorful packaging. Each layer revealed a new accessory or clue, making the big reveal feel like a game. The fun styles, the mystery of it... kids couldn't get enough!These figures' stylized vinyl designs, featuring iconic characters from movies, TV, music, and gaming, became must-have collectibles. The figures' limited editions and convention exclusives fueled frenzied collecting with fans hunting for rare variants and driving August 1 2020, LEGO Super Mario blended physical bricks with a smart interactive Mario figure that collects coins, reacts to enemies, and connects via app. Starter sets, expansions and blind‑bag character packs brought classic video‑game levels to life for fans and designed for sensory relief, Pop-Its became a viral sensation thanks to TikTok. The satisfying 'pop' made them endlessly entertaining and kids collected them in every color, shape and size by Moose Toys, the Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron was the breakout hit of 2022. Kids followed spell books, mixed ingredients, tapped their wands and real mist burbled up to reveal a surprise plush pet amid tons of cool sound their ultra-soft texture, charming names and collectible appeal, these plush pals took over TikTok, filled shelves (and beds) and even made it into McDonald's Happy Meals. Beloved by kids, teens and adults alike Squishmallows turned cuddly comfort into a brought virtual pets into a new era in 2024 with its holographic-style display and tactile controls. Housed in a handheld pod, Bitzee features 15 collectible creatures that respond to swipes, tilts and taps — no screen required. Pets evolve as you play, unlocking outfits, mini-games and new by nostalgia, digital crossovers, and soaring demand, the Scarlet & Violet series has dominated 2025. Sets like SV-151 and Prismatic Evolutions are selling out instantly, with rare cards skyrocketing in value—making this one of the most intense Pokémon trading card booms in years. You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper

Yahoo

7 hours ago

Yahoo

Kids Loved This Toy the Year You Were Born

From plastic potato heads to robotic hamsters, the most popular toy the year you were born says a lot about the trends and culture of that moment in time. Some toys took off thanks to blockbuster movies or Saturday morning cartoons, while others gained traction through viral internet fame or playground buzz. Whether techy, cuddly, or totally unexpected, these popular toys captured kids' imaginations — and parents' wallets — year after year. This list rounds up the most iconic, in-demand toy for each year from 1950 through 2025 (so far!). Some have become enduring childhood staples, like LEGO, Barbie, and Nintendo. Others were short-lived sensations that came and went in a flash. (Remember Pogs?) Whether driven by innovation, celebrity tie-ins, or good old-fashioned fun, each toy earned its moment in the spotlight. So whether you're feeling nostalgic for your own childhood favorite or just curious about what your kids are obsessed with now, scroll through for a playful walk down memory lane — and find out what was hot the year you were Little People first appeared in 1950 as part of the Looky Fire Truck. These small, peg-shaped characters became a staple in toddler toys and helped children develop imagination and storytelling through simple, durable Potato Head has the distinction of being the first toy ever advertised on TV. Kids originally used real potatoes to create goofy characters using the included plastic parts, making it a wildly novel and customizable toy when it on the original Slinky craze, Slinky Dog debuted in 1952 as a pull toy with a coiled metal body. It charmed kids with its springy, bouncing motion and wagging tail as it rolled across the not widely sold until later, early development of Chatty Cathy began around 1953. The talking doll amazed kids by saying recorded phrases when you pulled a string, a pioneering feature that made it one of the first interactive marketed and sold as a wallpaper cleaner, Play-Doh later sold as a colorful modeling compound in the '50s. Its fun texture and bright colors made it a hit with kids for creative Putty was actually invented during World War II, and became a favorite toy by the mid-1950s. It could bounce, stretch, break, and even lift comic strips off newspaper pages, captivating kids with its oddball, hands-on started out as a stop-motion TV character before he became a bendable green toy figure. Along with his horse Pokey, Gumby became a 1950s icon that encouraged imaginative their reusable vinyl stick-ons and bold, colorful backgrounds, Colorforms let kids create endless scenes and stories... with no mess. From basic shapes to licensed characters, these peel-and-stick sets sparked imagination and became a staple in mid-century playrooms.A simple plastic ring became a full-blown national obsession in 1958. The Hula Hoop, popularized by Wham-O, had kids spinning, twirling, and competing in backyard battles across the country. At its peak, millions were sold each month, proof that the best toys don't need the iconic Barbie made her debut in 1959, it was nothing short of a revolution in the doll world. With her glamorous outfits, high heels, and grown-up lifestyle, Barbie offered a new kind of imaginative play — one where kids could dream big about grown-up life. She wasn't just a doll; she was a fashion model, astronaut, doctor and more paving the way for decades of role play and reinvention (not to mention a blockbuster movie decades down the road).Part toy, part drawing tool, Etch A Sketch let kids create art with just two knobs — no pencils or paper needed. The red-framed screen felt like magic, erasing instantly with a quick shake. It became an instant classic and a must-have for budding artists or everyday its smiling face, spinning dial, and wobbly wheels, the Chatter Telephone made talking on the 'phone' endlessly fun for toddlers. It encouraged pretend play and early communication skills. Plus, pulling it around by its string made it feel like a friendly little their wild hair and wide-eyed grins, Troll dolls were weird, whimsical and wildly popular. Originally created by a Danish woodcutter, these quirky little figures became a surprise hit in the U.S., sparking a full-blown craze that would return again and again over the decades (eventually as a huge movie franchise).Baking got kid-sized with the Easy-Bake Oven, which used a simple lightbulb to 'cook' mini cakes and cookies. It gave kids a taste of independence in the kitchen... and a warm, sweet treat to show for it. The nostalgia factor to this day? Still piping as the first 'action figure,' G.I. Joe marched onto the scene in 1964 and redefined toys marketed to boys in that era. With movable joints, military gear, and a backstory for every figure, G.I. Joe sparked a new kind of imaginative play centered around adventure, bravery, and buzzy board game turned the seriousness of surgery into silly fun. Players used tweezers to remove tiny 'ailments' from Cavity Sam without touching the edges, or risk setting off that iconic red nose and startling buzzer. Operation combined laughter and anticipation with a steady-hand challenge that kids turned math concepts (boring for kids!) into mesmerizing art (super fun for kids!). Using gears, rings, and colored pens, kids could draw endless looping patterns and intricate designs. It was part creativity, part precision and totally captivating once you started let kids create glowing masterpieces by plugging colorful pegs into a backlit screen. Whether following a template or freestyling, the result was pure magic, especially when the lights dimmed. It was creative, calming and just the right amount of retro-futuristic sleek, die-cast vehicles from Mattel featured flashy designs and ultra-fast wheels, turning any floor or track into a high-speed racetrack. Kids raced, collected and customized them — fueling a craze that's still going strong the Apollo 11 mission captured the world's imagination, Snoopy suited up in his own space gear. Released to celebrate the moon landing, the Snoopy Astronaut doll let kids bring home a piece of history with their favorite beagle leading the and sold as the 'world's first indoor ball,' the original Nerf Ball was soft, squishy, and safe to toss around the house — no risk of broken lamps or bruised siblings. It kicked off the iconic Nerf brand and proved that foam could be seriously fun.'Weebles wobble but they don't fall down!' These egg-shaped figures with weighted bottoms were a toddler favorite in the early '70s. No matter how far you tilted them, they always bounced back, making them endlessly entertaining and nearly impossible to to learn and play but full of surprises, Uno quickly became a family game night favorite. The colorful cards, wild rules and satisfying 'Draw Four' moments made it a hit across generations and a staple in every toy drawer even to this Alive brought pretend play to a new level with a doll that could eat, drink and even needed a diaper change. Kids loved the lifelike caregiving experience while parents loved watching their little ones eager to take on Magna Doodle debuted in 1974, captivating kids with its mess-free magnetic drawing magic. Using a special magnetic pen children could sketch pictures or write messages that appeared like magic on the screen — then swipe the slider to erase it all instantly. Its simplicity and reusability made it a go-to toy for car rides, classroom fun and creative play at home. It was durable, portable, and endlessly sounds like a joke — and that's because it kind of was. Created by advertising executive Gary Dahl, the Pet Rock was literally a smooth stone sold in a cardboard box with breathing holes and straw bedding. Marketed as the ideal low-maintenance companion, the novelty toy became a full-blown craze in the mid-'70s. Kids loved the silliness of having a 'pet' they didn't have to feed, walk, or clean up after. At its peak, more than a million Pet Rocks were sold, proving that with the right spin, even a rock could become a national Armstrong could stretch, twist, and bend like no other toy. Filled with a mysterious goo and encased in a muscular latex body, Stretch could be pulled up to four feet and still snap back to shape. Kids loved testing his limits, and Stretch Armstrong was unlike anything else at the Star Wars hit theaters that year, its impact was masssive. Kenner's action figures let kids bring the epic saga home, fueling an unprecedented demand for the tabletop playthings. They quickly became coveted collectibles and launched a new era of movie its flashing lights and catchy tones, Simon challenged players to memorize and repeat increasingly complex sequences. It was a game, it was a brain teaser and it became an instant classic — equally fun as it was futuristic (for the time).The Atari 2600 brought arcade action into the living room and helped launch the home video game revolution. With blocky graphics and joystick controls, it introduced classics like Space Invaders and Asteroids and changed how kids played colorful puzzle cube took the world by storm in 1980. Simple in appearance but devilishly tricky to solve, the Rubik's Cube challenged kids (and adults) to twist their way to victory and kicked off a worldwide brainteaser blue and irresistibly collectible, Smurfs figurines were based on the beloved Belgian cartoon. These hand-painted PVC figures came in endless variations and kids loved building their own Smurf villages and hunting for rare their colorful bodies, brushable manes and sweet names like Cotton Candy and Blue Belle, My Little Pony figures galloped straight into kids' hearts. Each pony had its own personality and symbol, making them endlessly collectible and perfect for imaginative their pudgy cheeks and yarn hair, Cabbage Patch Kids sparked a full-blown holiday shopping frenzy in 1983. Each one came with a unique name and its own 'adoption papers,' making them feel one-of-a-kind — something kids (and parents, forced to scour stores) couldn't get enough instantly captured '80s imaginations with their ability to shift from vehicles into heroic robots. Led by Optimus Prime and Megatron, the battle between Autobots and Decepticons played out in toy form, comics, and a hit animated series. Their unique 'more than meets the eye' gimmick made them endlessly fun to play with, and turned them into a pop culture juggernaut still going strong decades moving eyes and a mouth that 'read' stories aloud via cassette tape, Teddy Ruxpin felt like a magical storytelling companion. Kids were mesmerized by the animatronic bear who quickly became the year's most talked-about (and hardest to find) this futuristic game, players wore sensor-equipped vests and wielded infrared 'blasters,' scoring hits with light beams instead of foam darts or water. It felt like real-life sci-fi action inspired by the popularity of Star Wars and the arcade its rubbery strands and satisfyingly squishy feel, the Koosh Ball was a toy and stress reliever in one. Easy to catch and fun to fling it became a hit in classrooms and living rooms (and on office desks) 1988, the Nintendo Entertainment System had become a full-blown cultural force. Though it debuted earlier, this was the year titles like Super Mario Bros. 2 and Zelda II cemented the NES as the console to own. With its simple controller, iconic 8-bit graphics and awesome game library, the NES defined a whole generation of home Nintendo Game Boy forever changed how (and where) people played video games. This pocket-sized device brought portable gaming mainstream, with its grayscale screen, swappable cartridges, and unbeatable battery life. Bundled with Tetris, the Game Boy became an instant classic, captivating players of all ages and laying the foundation for handheld gaming as we know In 1990, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures were everywhere — from toy store shelves to school backpacks. Fueled by the hit cartoon and live-action movie, the toy line let kids collect all four pizza-loving heroes (Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael), plus villains like Shredder and breakout hit toy brought 16-bit gaming magic to living rooms in 1991 setting a new standard for home consoles. With classics like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Street Fighter II, the SNES delivered richer graphics, deeper gameplay and iconic soundtracks. It became a defining game console of the '90s and solidified Nintendo's legacy in the 1992, the Barbie Dreamhouse had evolved into a full-blown pink palace — complete with working lights, a ringing telephone and stylish plastic furniture. This iconic playset gave kids a glamorous space to bring their Barbie stories to life, whether she was hosting a pool party, relaxing in her canopy bed or making calls from her cordless phone. With multiple levels and rooms, the playhouse offered just about endless imaginative possibilities and cemented Barbie's status as a fashion-forward homeowner living her best a movie prop in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, the Talkboy became a real-life sensation in 1993. This silver handheld recorder let kids slow down their voices, record goofy messages and play them back for endless laughs — just like Kevin McCallister did. With its extendable microphone and futuristic design, the Talkboy felt like a gadget straight out of a spy the massive success of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers on TV, the action figures became one of 1994's hottest toys. Kids could collect their favorite Rangers and reenact battles against villains like Rita Repulsa and Lord Zedd. With their martial arts poses, morphing accessories, and Zords that combined into Megazords, these toys became a major cardboard discs took schoolyards by storm in the mid-'90s. Kids stacked, flipped, and battled Pogs using heavy 'slammers,' turning recess into a full-on competition. With endless designs to collect, Pogs were as much about trading as they were about Me Elmo became a full-blown cultural craze during the 1996 holiday season. The fuzzy red Sesame Street character would giggle and shake when squeezed, sending kids into fits of laughter — and sending parents into a frenzy trying to find one. Stores sold out within minutes, sparking stampedes and sky-high resale pocket-sized digital pet from Japan required constant care — feeding, cleaning, and attention — or it would 'die,' making it both adorable and anxiety-inducing (an addictive combo). Kids became instantly obsessed, checking on their pixelated pals between classes and taking the responsibility debuted in 1998 and instantly captivated kids with its blinking eyes, moving beak and ability to 'learn' language over time. The furry, owl-like creature spoke its own language (Furbish, of course) before gradually switching to English, creating the illusion of intelligence. Its interactive nature and quirky personality sparked a massive holiday craze making Furby one of the most sought-after toys of the late ' the turn of the new millennium, Pokémon cards turned playgrounds into bustling trading hubs. Based on the wildly popular video games and animated series, the collectible card game let kids battle with their favorite characters like Pikachu, Charizard and Mewtwo. Rare cards became valuable, coveted Razor Scooter burst onto the scene in 2000 and became an instant phenomenon. Lightweight, foldable, and fun to ride, it was the must-have toy for kids (and even some adults) looking to zip around the neighborhood. Its sleek aluminum design and smooth-rolling wheels made it cooler than a bike and portable enough to carry into class or stash under the bed. Razor reportedly sold over 5 million scooters in its first year alone, making it one of the most iconic toys of the dolls hit the shelves in 2001 with a bold, fashion-forward attitude that shook up the doll aisle; they had oversized eyes, glossy lips, and edgy outfits. Characters like Cloe, Yasmin, Jade and Sasha offered a modern alternative to traditional dolls. Bratz quickly became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for their diverse looks and cool toy combined fast-paced battles with customizable spinning tops. Kids launched their Beyblades into plastic arenas, watching them clash and knock each other out. Based on a Japanese anime, the toy's "Let it rip!" catchphrase became a playground marched onto the scene in 2003 as one of the first mass-market robots to combine real movement, personality and playability. Created by a NASA scientist, this humanoid robot could walk, dance, burp and even grab objects, controlled entirely by a its dual screens, touch controls, and built-in Wi-Fi, the Nintendo DS felt like the future of handheld gaming. From Nintendogs to Mario Kart, it delivered endless fun on the go, and became an instant must-have for release of the Xbox 360 marked in a new era of high-def gaming and online multiplayer experiences. With a cool design, a robust library of games like Halo 3 and Gears of War, and the rise of Xbox Live, it became serious gamers' absolute must-have toy. In addition to providing gameplay at home, it also connected players around the world, a feature that set the stage for modern online gaming Nintendo Wii revolutionized gaming in 2006 when it came out with its motion-sensing controls. Instead of traditional button-mashing, players swung, aimed and moved to play — whether bowling, boxing, or battling. The console attracted gamers of all ages and quickly became a household staple, selling over 100 million the music power of an iPod with the touchscreen magic of the iPhone, the iPod Touch was the ultimate tech toy in 2007. Kids and teens were obsessed with downloading apps, watching videos and showing off their sleek new innovative toy combined action figures, trading cards and magnetic pop-up transformations into one thrilling experience. Kids rolled marble-shaped Bakugan onto special cards, causing them to spring open into fierce creatures. Backed by a hit anime series, Bakugan quickly became a must-have collectible and strategic playground robotic hamsters scurried, squeaked and zipped through plastic tunnels, giving kids all the fun of a pet without the mess. Zhu Zhu Pets were an instant hit, flying off shelves during the holiday season thanks to their cuteness and first iPad launched a tablet revolution, and quickly became a must-have for families. With its big screen, intuitive design, and endless apps, the iPad was both a cutting-edge gadget and the coolest toy in the learning with touchscreen fun, the LeapPad Explorer was like a kid-friendly tablet packed with educational games and e-books. Parents loved the focus on reading and math, while kids loved feeling like they had a 'real' device of their brought toys to life... literally. Kids could place real action figures on a "Portal of Power" to transport them into the video game. The mix of physical play and digital adventure made it one of the hottest trends of the simple plastic loom sparked a DIY craze, as kids everywhere used tiny rubber bands to weave colorful bracelets. Rainbow Loom was creative, collectible, and a playground must-have. Plus, it got kids totally hooked on Frozen mania swept the globe, Elsa dolls became the most coveted toy of the year. With her sparkly blue gown and signature braid, the Snow Queen let kids bring the magic — not to mention the earworm — of "Let it Go" app-controlled droid rolled straight out of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and into kids' hearts. With lifelike movements and personality-packed responses, BB-8 felt like your very own robot fuzzy, animatronic creatures hatched from speckled eggs with a little help from their owners, creating a magical unboxing moment. The surprise element — and the cute toys inside — made Hatchimals an instant sellout started as a stress-relief tool turned into a playground craze. Fidget spinners were everywhere in 2017, with kids mastering tricks and showing off colorful designs that spun for minutes at a fun reached new heights with L.O.L. Surprise Dolls, which came hidden inside layers of colorful packaging. Each layer revealed a new accessory or clue, making the big reveal feel like a game. The fun styles, the mystery of it... kids couldn't get enough!These figures' stylized vinyl designs, featuring iconic characters from movies, TV, music, and gaming, became must-have collectibles. The figures' limited editions and convention exclusives fueled frenzied collecting with fans hunting for rare variants and driving August 1 2020, LEGO Super Mario blended physical bricks with a smart interactive Mario figure that collects coins, reacts to enemies, and connects via app. Starter sets, expansions and blind‑bag character packs brought classic video‑game levels to life for fans and designed for sensory relief, Pop-Its became a viral sensation thanks to TikTok. The satisfying 'pop' made them endlessly entertaining and kids collected them in every color, shape and size by Moose Toys, the Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron was the breakout hit of 2022. Kids followed spell books, mixed ingredients, tapped their wands and real mist burbled up to reveal a surprise plush pet amid tons of cool sound their ultra-soft texture, charming names and collectible appeal, these plush pals took over TikTok, filled shelves (and beds) and even made it into McDonald's Happy Meals. Beloved by kids, teens and adults alike Squishmallows turned cuddly comfort into a brought virtual pets into a new era in 2024 with its holographic-style display and tactile controls. Housed in a handheld pod, Bitzee features 15 collectible creatures that respond to swipes, tilts and taps — no screen required. Pets evolve as you play, unlocking outfits, mini-games and new by nostalgia, digital crossovers, and soaring demand, the Scarlet & Violet series has dominated 2025. Sets like SV-151 and Prismatic Evolutions are selling out instantly, with rare cards skyrocketing in value—making this one of the most intense Pokémon trading card booms in years. You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper

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