A toy may be considered a timeless classic like Barbie, or a toy may be thought of as a short-lived trend such as the Fidget Spinner. Every year, however, there is an elite group of toys that stand out from the rest. These are the clever creations that are the most talked about, most craved, and most sought after. On any given year, kids claim that if they can have this one thing, they will not ask for anything else. Parents then go to the ends of the Earth to satisfy the cries that nothing else will do. 2018 is no exception, and here are some of the standouts of the year.
Interaction is a feature that often propels a product into the spotlight. Consider Tickle Me Elmo, a well-known and well-loved creature that gave out a signature laugh when its belly was touched. Collectibility is also a powerful motivator. Kids can easily demand a series of toys from a particular product line. Whoever wanted just one Ninja Turtle? You can’t have Leonardo without Donatello. Packing the punch of both features, Fingerlings Interactive Baby Monkeys are cute and small enough to fit on your fingers, and their petite size make them a great collectible. Beyond their size, Fingerlings Interactive Baby Monkeys respond to touch and other sensory cues. If you blow a kiss at a Fingerlings Baby Monkey, it may blow one right back at you. Pomsies are another hot item. Like Fingerlings, Pomsies are designed to attach to a part of the body. Pomsies are considered fashion toys that can be worn around the wrist. Pomsies’ fans eagerly await the release of the next set of characters. This clever marketing schedule can create quite a frenzy for a product, and there are many websites that provide sources of how to track down deals on the anticipated releases. One last interactive collectible is Hatchimals Colleggtibles. The basic interactive feature is that the egg hatches when pressed. However, with over 70 offerings in this product series, the fun of watching a mystery creature come to life can go on for quite some time.
Cute and cuddly may not be on everyone’s radar. Blockbuster movies often inspire a series of toys featuring the characters or elements of the movie. One of this year’s film-inspired toys is LEGO Batman Movie – the Batwing Building Kit. Of course, this is a LEGO building block set, and the finished product replicates one of Batman’s signature vehicles. It also includes a miniature Batman, Robin, and Harley Quinn. After meeting the challenge of building the Batwing, kids can take Batman on epic flights fueled by their imagination. Another great action series, Transformers, offers a great toy contender this year. Power of the Primes Wave 2 is a collection of miniature transformable figures. Autobots and Decepticons can be collected to go to battle at a child’s every whim. They go beyond action figures to also include an accessory and the ability to combine with a Prime Master figure. With this toy collection, kids can create the ultimate Transformer and harness the power of the Primes. Star Wars Ultimate Co-pilot Chewie has the force on its side. This toy from FurReal combines hit movie sensation with delightful interaction. Chewie responds differently to the various ways kids may move the toy. This toy provides both cuddly cuteness and blockbuster brand association. Whether you’re looking for adorable interaction, fashionable fun, or transformable collectibles, these highly desired toys are sure to make appearances on many wish lists this year.
