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Life

Kids Loved This Toy the Year You Were Born

Last updated: June 26, 2025 7:04 pm
Oliver James
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34 Min Read
Kids Loved This Toy the Year You Were Born
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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.

Contents
1950: Fisher Price’s Little People1951: Mr. Potato Head1952: Slinky Dog1953: Chatty Cathy (prototype)1954: Play-Doh1955: Silly Putty1956: Gumby1957: Colorforms1958: Hula Hoop1959: Barbie1960: Etch A Sketch1961: Chatter Telephone1962: Trolls1963: Easy-Bake Oven1964: G.I. Joe1965: Operation1966: Spirograph1967: Lite Brite1968: Hot Wheels1969: Snoopy Astronaut1970: Nerf Ball1971: Weebles1972: Uno1973: Baby Alive1974: Magna Doodle1975: Pet Rock1976: Stretch Armstrong1977: Star Wars Action Figures1978: Simon1979: Atari 26001980: Rubik’s Cube1981: Smurfs figurines1982: My Little Pony1983: Cabbage Patch Kids1984: Transformers1985: Teddy Ruxpin1986: Lazer Tag1987: Koosh Ball1988: Nintendo Entertainment System1989: Nintendo Game Boy1990: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures1991: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)1992: Barbie Dreamhouse1993: Talkboy1994: Power Rangers Action Figures1995: Pogs1996: Tickle Me Elmo1997: Tamagotchi1998: Furby1999: Pokemon Cards2000: Razor Scooter2001: Bratz dolls2002: Beyblades2003: Robosapien2004: Nintendo DS2005: Xbox 3602006: Wii2007: iPod Touch2008: Bakugan Battle Brawlers2009: Zhu Zhu Pets2010 iPad2011: LeapPad Explorer2012: Skylanders2013: Rainbow Loom2014: Elsa doll2015: BB-8 by Sphero2016: Hatchimals2017: Fidget Spinner2018: L.O.L. Surprise Dolls2019: Funko Pop figures2020: Lego Super Mario2021: Pop-It fidget toy2022: Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron2023: Squishmallows2024: Bitzee Interactive Digital Pet2025 (so far): Pokemon TCG Scarlet and Violet Craze

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 born.

1950: Fisher Price’s Little People

Fisher-Price’s 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 play.

most popular toy the year you were born 1950 fisher price little peoplemost popular toy the year you were born 1950 fisher price little people
Hill Street Studios – Getty Images

1951: Mr. Potato Head

Mr. 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 debuted.

most popular toy the year you were born 1951 mr potato headmost popular toy the year you were born 1951 mr potato head
skodonnell – Getty Images

1952: Slinky Dog

Building 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 floor.

this is the most popular toy the year you were bornthis is the most popular toy the year you were born
Aykut67 – Getty Images

1953: Chatty Cathy (prototype)

Though 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 toys.

most popular toy the year you were born 1953 mattel chatty cathymost popular toy the year you were born 1953 mattel chatty cathy
Gary Friedman – Getty Images

1954: Play-Doh

Originally 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 play.

most popular toy the year you were born 1954 playdohmost popular toy the year you were born 1954 playdoh
NoDerog – Getty Images

1955: Silly Putty

Silly 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 appeal.

most popular toy the year you were born 1955 silly puttymost popular toy the year you were born 1955 silly putty
Universal History Archive – Getty Images

1956: Gumby

Gumby 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 play.

most popular toy the year you were born 1956 gumbymost popular toy the year you were born 1956 gumby
BrendanHunter – Getty Images

1957: Colorforms

With 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.

most popular toy the year you were born 1957 colorformsmost popular toy the year you were born 1957 colorforms
NNehring – Getty Images

1958: Hula Hoop

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 batteries.

most popular toy the year you were born 1958 hula hoopmost popular toy the year you were born 1958 hula hoop
FPG – Getty Images

1959: Barbie

When 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).

most popular toy the year you were born 1959 barbiemost popular toy the year you were born 1959 barbie
GABRIEL BOUYS – Getty Images

1960: Etch A Sketch

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 doodlers.

most popular toy the year you were born 1960 etch a sketchmost popular toy the year you were born 1960 etch a sketch
KAREN BLEIER – Getty Images

1961: Chatter Telephone

With 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 companion.

most popular toy the year you were born 1961 chatter telephonemost popular toy the year you were born 1961 chatter telephone
Sjöberg Bildbyrå – Getty Images

1962: Trolls

With 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).

most popular toy the year you were born 1962 troll dollsmost popular toy the year you were born 1962 troll dolls
The Washington Post – Getty Images

1963: Easy-Bake Oven

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 hot.

most popular toy the year you were born 1963 easybake ovenmost popular toy the year you were born 1963 easybake oven
Albany Times Union/Hearst Newspapers – Getty Images

1964: G.I. Joe

Billed 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 heroism.

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STEPHEN JAFFE – Getty Images

1965: Operation

This 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 loved.

most popular toy the year you were born 1965 operationmost popular toy the year you were born 1965 operation
The Sydney Morning Herald – Getty Images

1966: Spirograph

Spirograph 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 spinning.

most popular toy the year you were born 1966 spirographmost popular toy the year you were born 1966 spirograph
Photo by Kosei Saito – Getty Images

1967: Lite Brite

Lite-Brite 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 fun.

most popular toy the year you were born 1967 lite britemost popular toy the year you were born 1967 lite brite
Smith Collection/Gado – Getty Images

1968: Hot Wheels

These 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 today.

most popular toy the year you were born 1968 hot wheelsmost popular toy the year you were born 1968 hot wheels
Mirrorpix – Getty Images

1969: Snoopy Astronaut

As 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 mission.

most popular toy the year you were born 1969 snoopy astronautmost popular toy the year you were born 1969 snoopy astronaut
Alain BENAINOUS – Getty Images

1970: Nerf Ball

Marketed 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.

most popular toy the year you were born 1970 nerf ballmost popular toy the year you were born 1970 nerf ball
Juan Camilo Bernal – Getty Images

1971: Weebles

“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 break.

most popular toy the year you were born 1971 weeblesmost popular toy the year you were born 1971 weebles
Universal History Archive – Getty Images

1972: Uno

Easy 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 day.

most popular toy the year you were born 1972 unomost popular toy the year you were born 1972 uno
(c) by Cristóbal Alvarado Minic – Getty Images

1973: Baby Alive

Baby 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 responsibilities.

this is the most popular toy the year you were bornthis is the most popular toy the year you were born
FPG – Getty Images

1974: Magna Doodle

The 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 entertaining.

most popular toy the year you were born 1974 magna doodlemost popular toy the year you were born 1974 magna doodle
Harold M. Lambert – Getty Images

1975: Pet Rock

It 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 obsession.

most popular toy the year you were born 1975 pet rockmost popular toy the year you were born 1975 pet rock
Bettmann – Getty Images

1976: Stretch Armstrong

Stretch 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 time.

most popular toy the year you were born 1976 stretch armstrongmost popular toy the year you were born 1976 stretch armstrong
Tristan Fewings – Getty Images

1977: Star Wars Action Figures

When 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 merchandise.

most popular toy the year you were born 1977 star wars action figuresmost popular toy the year you were born 1977 star wars action figures
Portland Press Herald – Getty Images

1978: Simon

With 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).

most popular toy the year you were born 1978 simon gamemost popular toy the year you were born 1978 simon game
Harold M. Lambert – Getty Images

1979: Atari 2600

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 forever.

most popular toy the year you were born 1979 atari 2600most popular toy the year you were born 1979 atari 2600
Wahyu Ichwandardi – Getty Images

1980: Rubik’s Cube

This 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 craze.

most popular toy the year you were born 1980 rubik's cubemost popular toy the year you were born 1980 rubik's cube
Keystone – Getty Images

1981: Smurfs figurines

Tiny, 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 characters.

most popular toy the year you were born 1981 smurfs figurinesmost popular toy the year you were born 1981 smurfs figurines
EMMANUEL DUNAND – Getty Images

1982: My Little Pony

With 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 play.

most popular toy the year you were born 1982 my little ponymost popular toy the year you were born 1982 my little pony
ivanastar – Getty Images

1983: Cabbage Patch Kids

With 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 of.

most popular toy the year you were born 1983 cabbage patch dollsmost popular toy the year you were born 1983 cabbage patch dolls
Mirrorpix – Getty Images

1984: Transformers

Transformers 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 later.

most popular toy the year you were born 1984 transformersmost popular toy the year you were born 1984 transformers
Zhang Peng – Getty Images

1985: Teddy Ruxpin

With 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) toy.

most popular toy the year you were born 1985 teddy ruxpinmost popular toy the year you were born 1985 teddy ruxpin
Mirrorpix – Getty Images

1986: Lazer Tag

In 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 boom.

most popular toy the year you were born 1986 lazer tagmost popular toy the year you were born 1986 lazer tag
O2O CREATIVE – Getty Images

1987: Koosh Ball

With 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) alike.

most popular toy the year you were born 1987 koosh ballmost popular toy the year you were born 1987 koosh ball
Thorsten Nilson / 500px – Getty Images

1988: Nintendo Entertainment System

By 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 gaming.

most popular toy the year you were born 1988 nintendo entertainment systemmost popular toy the year you were born 1988 nintendo entertainment system
AnthonyRosenberg – Getty Images

1989: Nintendo Game Boy

The 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 it.

most popular toy the year you were born 1989 nintendo game boymost popular toy the year you were born 1989 nintendo game boy
NurPhoto – Getty Images

1990: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures

Cowabunga! 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 Bebop.

most popular toy the year you were born 1990 teenage mutant ninja turtles action figuresmost popular toy the year you were born 1990 teenage mutant ninja turtles action figures
James Keyser – Getty Images

1991: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

This 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 realm.

most popular toy the year you were born 1991 super nintendo entertainment system (snes)most popular toy the year you were born 1991 super nintendo entertainment system (snes)
Aldara Zarraoa – Getty Images

1992: Barbie Dreamhouse

By 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 life.

most popular toy the year you were born 1992 barbie dream housemost popular toy the year you were born 1992 barbie dream house
Bethany Clarke – Getty Images

1993: Talkboy

Originally 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 movie.

most popular toy the year you were born 1993 talkboymost popular toy the year you were born 1993 talkboy
Frank Trapper – Getty Images

1994: Power Rangers Action Figures

Following 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 craze.

most popular toy the year you were born 1994 power rangers action figuresmost popular toy the year you were born 1994 power rangers action figures
Mario Ruiz – Getty Images

1995: Pogs

These 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 winning.

most popular toy the year you were born 1995 pogsmost popular toy the year you were born 1995 pogs
Chuck Savage – Getty Images

1996: Tickle Me Elmo

Tickle 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 prices.

most popular toy the year you were born 1996 tickle me elmomost popular toy the year you were born 1996 tickle me elmo
Colin McConnell – Getty Images

1997: Tamagotchi

This 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 seriously.

most popular toy the year you were born 1997 tamagotchimost popular toy the year you were born 1997 tamagotchi
Steve Russell – Getty Images

1998: Furby

Furby 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 ’90s.

most popular toy the year you were born 1998 furbymost popular toy the year you were born 1998 furby
The Washington Post – Getty Images

1999: Pokemon Cards

Around 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 treasures.

most popular toy the year you were born 1999 pokemon cardsmost popular toy the year you were born 1999 pokemon cards
picture alliance – Getty Images

2000: Razor Scooter

The 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 decade.

most popular toy the year you were born 2000 razor scootermost popular toy the year you were born 2000 razor scooter
Najlah Feanny – Getty Images

2001: Bratz dolls

Bratz 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 style.

most popular toy the year you were born 2001 bratz dollsmost popular toy the year you were born 2001 bratz dolls
JOHN D MCHUGH – Getty Images

2002: Beyblades

This 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 staple.

most popular toy the year you were born 2002 beybladesmost popular toy the year you were born 2002 beyblades
Ian West – PA Images – Getty Images

2003: Robosapien

Robosapien 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 remote.

most popular toy the year you were born 2003 robosapienmost popular toy the year you were born 2003 robosapien
Chris Jackson – Getty Images

2004: Nintendo DS

With 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 gamers.

most popular toy the year you were born 2004 nintendo dsmost popular toy the year you were born 2004 nintendo ds
John keeble – Getty Images

2005: Xbox 360

The 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 communities.

most popular toy the year you were born 2005 xbox 360most popular toy the year you were born 2005 xbox 360
Koichi Kamoshida – Getty Images

2006: Wii

The 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 units.

most popular toy the year you were born 2006 wiimost popular toy the year you were born 2006 wii
Scott Barbour – Getty Images

2007: iPod Touch

Combining 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 screens.

most popular toy the year you were born 2007 ipod touchmost popular toy the year you were born 2007 ipod touch
Cate Gillon – Getty Images

2008: Bakugan Battle Brawlers

This 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 favorite.

most popular toy the year you were born 2008 bakugan battle brawlersmost popular toy the year you were born 2008 bakugan battle brawlers
Andrew Francis Wallace – Getty Images

2009: Zhu Zhu Pets

These 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 unpredictability.

most popular toy the year you were born 2009 zhu zhu petsmost popular toy the year you were born 2009 zhu zhu pets
Gareth Cattermole – Getty Images

2010 iPad

Apple’s 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 house.

most popular toy the year you were born 2010 ipadmost popular toy the year you were born 2010 ipad
San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers – Getty Images

2011: LeapPad Explorer

Blending 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 own.

most popular toy the year you were born 2011 leappad explorermost popular toy the year you were born 2011 leappad explorer
Georgie Gillard – PA Images – Getty Images

2012: Skylanders

Skylanders 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 year.

most popular toy the year you were born 2012 skylandersmost popular toy the year you were born 2012 skylanders
NBC – Getty Images

2013: Rainbow Loom

This 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 crafting.

most popular toy the year you were born 2013 rainbow loommost popular toy the year you were born 2013 rainbow loom
PHILIPPE HUGUEN – Getty Images

2014: Elsa doll

After 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” home.

most popular toy the year you were born 2014 elsa doll frozenmost popular toy the year you were born 2014 elsa doll frozen
MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images – Getty Images

2015: BB-8 by Sphero

This 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 sidekick.

most popular toy the year you were born 2015 bb 8 by spheromost popular toy the year you were born 2015 bb 8 by sphero
AMY BROTHERS – Getty Images

2016: Hatchimals

These 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 hit.

most popular toy the year you were born 2016 hatchimalsmost popular toy the year you were born 2016 hatchimals
picture alliance – Getty Images

2017: Fidget Spinner

What 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 time.

most popular toy the year you were born 2017 fidget spinnersmost popular toy the year you were born 2017 fidget spinners
Variety – Getty Images

2018: L.O.L. Surprise Dolls

Unboxing 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!

most popular toy the year you were born 2018 lol suprise dollsmost popular toy the year you were born 2018 lol suprise dolls
Jack Taylor – Getty Images

2019: Funko Pop figures

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 demand.

most popular toy the year you were born 2019 funko pop figuresmost popular toy the year you were born 2019 funko pop figures
Jam Media – Getty Images

2020: Lego Super Mario

Launched 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 families.

most popular toy the year you were born 2020 lego super mariomost popular toy the year you were born 2020 lego super mario
Chesnot – Getty Images

2021: Pop-It fidget toy

Originally 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 imaginable.

most popular toy the year you were born 2021 pop it fidget toymost popular toy the year you were born 2021 pop it fidget toy
Copyright Morten Falch Sortland – Getty Images

2022: Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron

Launched 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 effects.

most popular toy the year you were born 2022 magic mixies magic cauldronmost popular toy the year you were born 2022 magic mixies magic cauldron
TOLGA AKMEN – Getty Images

2023: Squishmallows

With 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 lifestyle.

most popular toy the year you were born 2023 squishmallowsmost popular toy the year you were born 2023 squishmallows
The Washington Post – Getty Images

2024: Bitzee Interactive Digital Pet

Bitzee 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 versions.

most popular toy the year you were born 2024 bitzee interactive digital petmost popular toy the year you were born 2024 bitzee interactive digital pet
Unique Nicole – Getty Images

2025 (so far): Pokemon TCG Scarlet and Violet Craze

Fueled 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.

most popular toy the year you were born 2025 pokémon tcg scarlet and violet crazemost popular toy the year you were born 2025 pokémon tcg scarlet and violet craze
John keeble – Getty Images

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