Latest news with #MrPotatoHead
Daily Mail
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Fans slam 'woke' Disney after noticing MAJOR characters missing from Toy Story 5 preview
Disney and Pixar fans have been left in a panic after they noticed some major characters missing from an alleged new look at Toy Story 5. Pixar first confirmed that a fifth installment to the beloved film series was in the works back in 2023. Now, a new image believed to be a still from the upcoming movie has made its way around the web. And while many were excited about the glimpse into the flick, others were not happy that some of the original toys weren't included in it. The snap showed Jessie standing on a bed and facing a group of toys, which included a slew of Bonnie's playmates like Mr. Pricklepants, Trixie, Dolly, and Buttercup. Some of the playthings that she got from Andy were also there, like Hamm the Pig, Rex, and a bunch of the alien toys. But many of the original squad members from the beloved movies were missing, and fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to discuss their absence in droves. Buzz and Woody were both absent from the photo, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head and Slinky Dog. It was the latter that really caused a stir, as it's already been confirmed that Buzz and Woody will be back for Toy Story 5. Many began to worry that the adorable couple and mischievous slinky would not be in the fifth movie at all, and were quick to slam the animation studio - which was acquired by Disney in 2006 - over the potential cut. 'WHAT HAPPENED TO MR. AND MRS. POTATO HEAD?' one frantic fan asked. 'What happened to the Potato Heads and Slinky Dog?' questioned another. 'Where's Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head?' a different worried X user wondered. 'NO POTATO HEADS THIS IS TERRIBLE,' yelled someone else. Many people theorized that Pixar may have 'retired' the characters since their voice actors have passed away. Don Rickles, who played Mr. Potato Head, died in 2017, while Estelle Harris, who voiced his wife, passed in 2022. 'So did they just retire Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head due to their voice actors having passed away?' read a fifth tweet. 'Their voice actors died, and I guess they didn't want to recast?' a sixth said. 'Actors died so Pixar decided to retire their characters,' theorized another user. 'The Potatoes were beloved, but they were never necessary for the plot.' Disney has taken numerous strides to become more inclusive in recent years - from amending policies at its theme parks to stop staff from using gendered greetings to removing offensive imagery from rides and movies. Most notable is when they removed the seven dwarves during their live-action remake of Snow White, replacing them with 'magical creatures' instead. All of the changes have resulted in Disney earning a reputation for being 'woke,' and some people wondered if Mr. and Mrs. Potato head had been removed for 'woke' reasons. 'We can't even have the Potato Heads back because of woke,' one wrote. 'More woke trash swapping,' scathed another. Many people theorized that Pixar may have 'retired' the characters since their voice actors have passed away Others pointed out that not every character is featured in the new photo so it's still possible that they could still be in the film The fifth installment to the Toy Story series will follow your favorite group of toys facing a new challenge after their eight-year-old owner Bonnie gets an electronic tablet called Lillypad Others, however, pointed out that not every character is featured in the new photo so it's still possible that they could still be in the film. 'Mind you half the cast isn't in this shot so chill,' someone else replied, while another added, 'Obviously not every toy is in that picture.' The fifth installment to the Toy Story series - which will hit theaters on June 19, 2026 - will follow your favorite group of toys facing a new challenge after their eight-year-old owner Bonnie gets an electronic tablet called Lillypad. Toy Story veterans Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Joan Cussack - who played Woody, Buzz, and Jessie respectively in the first four flicks - have all confirmed their return. The ending of the fourth Toy Story movie left many people heartbroken as Woody decided to part ways with his longtime pals to stay with his love Bo Peep. But Tim previously told WIVB that Woody will reunite with his character, Buzz, in the new film. He added, however, that the fifth movie will focus a lot more on Jessie. 'I can tell you that it's a lot about Jessie,' he said. 'Tom and I do - Woody and I - do realign.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- 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
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- 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
Metro
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Games Inbox: Is The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion remaster worth it?
The Wednesday letters page thinks it understands Sony's plans for the PS6 portable, as a reader celebrates pre-ordering a Nintendo Switch 2. To join in with the discussions yourself email gamecentral@ Honest hype Nice to see some hype that was actually worth it, with the Oblivion remaster looking really nice. I appreciated that they made lots of changes to the gameplay and UI and other aspects to modernise it too. It reminds me of Metroid Prime, in that while they're both technically remasters this looks more significant than some remakes. The price is good too and as of right now I've bought it on PlayStation 5 and I'm downloading it now. Bethesda always seem a bit too full of themselves, which I think leads to some of their biggest mistakes, but at the end of the day they do make some great games. I'm not quite sure what went wrong with Starfield, but I know Oblivion is good and I can't wait to start playing what, in terms of the number of hours it'll suck me in, looks to be the bargain of the year. Purple Ranger Face to face I've got to hand it to Bethesda, the Oblivion remaster looks really good. A major upgrade in graphics and I really like the way they've improved the combat with special effects and new sound. The landscapes look really good and it's not actually too expensive, given it's a nearly 20 year old game. The only problem, and I can't believe they drew attention to it, is that the faces are still terrible. What is it with Bethesda and facial animation? Why do all their characters look like Mr Potato Head after too much cosmetic surgery? There was some improvement in Starfield, but it was still well behind the curve and while I guess this is bad because it's a remaster and not a remake, it's still laughable. It makes it seem like everyone at Bethesda is an alien that's never seen a real human being before. Bosley Random remaster I have to admit the Oblivion remaster looks really nice and I will probably end up getting it. I don't really see why it's Oblivion they've picked on though. Everyone jokes about how many times Skyrim has been re-released, but it's never had a remaster like this. Why not start with it or with Morrowind, which is in desperate need of a full remake. Starting in the middle with Oblivion seems a bit random to me. I'll be honest and admit I don't really remember the game all that well, just that I liked it and the celebrity voiceovers were good, so it's definitely worth a revisit. I just hope it's not a one-off, as the other two games definitely need the attention. Heck, why not do Daggerfall as well, I've never even played that one. Glottis Email your comments to: gamecentral@ Three not of a kind I feel the logic behind the PlayStation 6 portable is beginning to make sense. The initial rumours said that Sony was inspired by the unexpected success of the PlayStation Portal, so it would track that they'd want to make a new one for the PlayStation 6 that could play its games through streaming and PlayStation 5 games natively. That actually seems really appealing to me, although I don't know how existing Portal owners would feel, faced with having to buy another portable. It's clearly not very much like the Switch though and I'm going to guess the Xbox handheld is going to be a much more straightforward copy of the Steam Deck. If that's true, then we could end up with three very different portables this generation, from all three console manufacturers. That's pretty exciting. Focus Mysteries within mysteries The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct gets more puzzling the more you think of it. What gets me is that there was no major first party game that used mouse controls and there was no equivalent of 1-2-Switch or WarioWare to show off all the new features. There sort of was, but not really. Welcome Tour was the closest to something like 1-2-Switch but somehow it seemed even worse, while you got Drag X Drive as the first party game that showed off mouse controls. But I'd hardly call it 'big', considering it looked like a £5 indie Steam game. There was the DLC for Super Mario Party too, but none of that really seems like the sort of centrepiece game that instantly proves what it's all about. Mario Kart and Donkey Kong look good, but they also could've been on any sufficiently powerful console. Dalston Gravy train I know you don't need me to say how weird it is to make an OutRun movie, but did no one involved think about it for more than a second? A game with no plot or characters, that hasn't had a new sequel in nearly two decades, and they've got two major Hollywood stars attached. I hear that sales of A Minecraft Movie are slowing quicker than expected, so it won't make $1 billion. Hardly a disaster but a hint that if it had actually been any good it would've done even better. OutRun is so old and so irrelevant nowadays it seems incredible that Michael Bay and a major actress could be talked into making a film of it. If they fall for such nonsense just imagine how easy it must be for just about any idea to get through at the moment, just as long as you can say it is, or was, a famous video game. I hope we get something fun out of this current fad though, because it's bound not to last. I'd love an Ape Escape movie or Castlevania or Katamari Damacy or something. I don't even really care if they're good movies or not, I just want to see what publishers can talk Hollywood into. Of course, it would be a nice bonus if they were quality, but I'm not convinced it's ever going to happen. When Sonic The Hedgehog 3 is the high water mark I think it's a sign that overall potential is pretty low. Losca Transfer difficulties I have a quick question, I strangely can't find a direct answer for online. Do I need my Switch to transfer to a Switch 2? Ideally, I would like to sell my Switch before the Switch 2 is released to maximise the price but wasn't sure if I can transfer everything online or will need the actual, original console. John GC: We don't think there is a definitive answer. In theory you should just be able to log in with your Nintendo account and be able to redownload any of your digital games. It's the saves that's the problem – some use cloud saving, if you subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online, but others, like Zelda and Animal Crossing, don't. So presumably the only option there is to manually move them from one console to another. All paid up My partner is a legend. Because I'm not able to get out at the moment, she went to my local Currys store and pre-ordered me a Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle and Pro Controller 2. I did have to pay up front and it cost me £505. I've also purchased a 256GB express microSD card from the Game Collection and I've got a code for the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack for £25 from CDKeys. That's already £580 spent! Having been used to purchasing games digitally on my Xbox Series X/S consoles I will most likely continue to buy digital games on the Switch 2, although I plan to be extremely picky because of Nintendo games not dropping much in price and I'm only really interested in Nintendo exclusive games (including the games I missed on the first Switch) and indie games that skip the Xbox, like Pizza Tower. I do plan on day one to download Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and some Mario platformer games, although I can't decide between Super Mario Odyssey, Wonder or 3D World + Bowser's Fury. I could buy all three Mario platformers but then I might feel overwhelmed, having said that I can still see me buying Odyssey and Wonder, as they are both very different. I'm also pleasantly surprised by the file sizes of these games. Most are around 5GB to 10GB each, with the exception of Smash Bros. and Mario Kart World. It makes a nice surprise to not need in excess of 100GB+ for games. I could also do with knowing if there are any good Mario sports games on the Switch that are worth a download. Hope everyone who wants a pre-order gets one and it's worth visiting a store to grab one. Charlie H. GC: Mario Tennis Aces, Mario Golf: Super Rush, and Mario Strikers: Battle League Football are all okay but none of them are must-haves. The golden age of Mario sports games seems to be behind us now. Inbox also-ransJust to point out but Street Fighter 6 on Switch 2 also seems to be using DLSS. I think most games will end up using it, once the devs get their heads around the new console. Matchaman I know that strategy game got announced at the convention but it's a shame we've still never heard anything about the third and final Star Wars Jedi game. I know the director left, but surely EA aren't going to leave it at that? Campbell More Trending Email your comments to: gamecentral@ The small print New Inbox updates appear every weekday morning, with special Hot Topic Inboxes at the weekend. Readers' letters are used on merit and may be edited for length and content. You can also submit your own 500 to 600-word Reader's Feature at any time via email or our Submit Stuff page, which if used will be shown in the next available weekend slot. You can also leave your comments below and don't forget to follow us on Twitter. MORE: Games Inbox: Is Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion better than Skyrim? MORE: Games Inbox: Will GTA 6 be on Nintendo Switch 2? MORE: Games Inbox: Is Mario Kart World going to be worth it?
