Toy Trends in [Decade]: A Retro Look Back

It is often said that “toys are us” – and that is because our toys help to shape our childhoods, stories and memories. As time passes, the types of toys that we make and play with have changed drastically, reflecting the changes in our society and giving insight into what was popular at any given point in history.

In this blog post, we take a look back at the toy trends of a particular decade – [Decade] – to explore the defining characteristics, top sellers, memorable moments and lasting impact of those special toys.

By the end of this blog post, you will be familiar with the toys that are iconic to the selected decade and how they continue to have an influence on present day toy trends.

Distinguishing Characteristics of the Decade

During the chosen decade, toy production and design saw some significant changes that set it apart from other decades. One major shift at the time was the increasing prevalence of electronic-based toys. While battery-powered toys had existed for years prior, the technology had become more affordable and accessible to the mass market in this decade, creating a surge of electronic-based toys such as talking dolls, robots, and video games.

The decade also marked a return to classic toys that had become popular in earlier eras. Many nostalgic items were rereleased with updated designs that appealed to both kids and adults. Popular classics included scale model train sets, 1950s-style jukeboxes, and vintage-styled teddy bears.

In terms of design, the decade saw a parallel growth in DIY-style toys that allowed children to build their own products using various parts and tools. This type of play encouraged creativity and critical thinking more than ever before. Classic examples of this type of toy included LEGO building sets and robotics kits.

Most Popular Toys Overall

Toys from the chosen decade have captured the hearts of multiple generations, and even today they continue to delight people all around the world. While there were many incredibly popular toys during this period, there were a few that stood out from the rest. Let’s take a look at the top 3-4 toys that had everyone talking.

• Barbie: Launched in 1959 by Mattel, Barbie was an instant hit with girls of all ages. With realistic clothing, hairstyles, and accessories that could be bought separately, Barbie provided hours of fun, allowing young girls to explore their own creativity. The fact that Barbie kept getting reinvented with each new generation ensured that its popularity endured until the present day.
• Transformers: Produced by Hasbro in 1984, Transformers toys were based on the popular animated show. The toy versions of the characters were incredibly sophisticated for the time, with moving parts and highly detailed models. The success of this toy was enormous; it became the highest-selling toy franchise in history.
• Nintendo Entertainment System (NES): One of the quintessential home gaming systems of the 1980s, the NES was released in 1985 and quickly became the standard by which future gaming systems would be judged. Nintendo also created numerous classic games for the NES, such as Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong, which remain some of the most popular titles of their time.
• Cabbage Patch Kids: Created by Xavier Roberts in 1978, these unique dolls were unlike anything else on the market. Each one had its own unique name, birth certificate, and story, making them a truly unique experience for those who owned one. Cabbage Patch Kids quickly became the must-have toy of the 80s, and their popularity has continued until the present day.

Toys That Defined the Decade

When it comes to toys from the [Decade], there were a few that really made their mark. These special toys not only held the attention of children while on playtime, they also provided an interesting glimpse into the culture of the time. These toys were much more than just fun – they also had a lasting effect on the entire toy industry.

One of the most notable toys of the decade was the Rubik’s cube. This brain-teasing puzzle captured the minds of children and adults alike and was a must-have item for anyone looking to challenge themselves. The Rubik’s cube provided a non-traditional form of entertainment and problem solving that captivated generations when it was first released. To this day, the Rubik’s cube is still a popular item and continues to test the minds of all who seek out its brain-busting puzzles.

Another notable toy from the era was the Teddy Ruxpin. This interactive bear was a revolutionary piece of technology at the time and completely changed the way people interacted with toys. It featured cassette tapes and movable eyes, mouth, and upper body for a unique talking experience. For parents, it was a way to provide children with entertainment that was both safe and educational. For children, it was a chance to get to know a clever companion with whom they could share stories and adventures.

The Lite Brite was also a massive hit with children during the decade. This creative toy allowed kids to express themselves in a unique way by using small colored pegs to create colorful designs on a lit screen. The Lite Brite provided a way for children to explore their own creativity while producing something tangible. Even today, the Lite Brite remains a popular toy for those looking to dive into arts and crafts.

Lastly, Cabbage Patch Kids became an instant favorite, giving children the chance to adopt their very own doll. With their distinct look and each doll having an individual name and birthday, these were highly sought after by children and adults alike. Cabbage Patch Kids also appealed to modern sensibilities with clothes and accessories that were reflective of the fashion trends at the time – complete with bell bottom pants and jean jackets.

These toys have left an indelible mark on the toy industry. Not only have they become iconic pieces of pop culture, but they have also shaped the way toys are made, presented, and interacted with even today.

Trends Among Toy Producers

The toy industry in the selected decade saw many changes. Companies that produced toys had to keep up with the latest trends and make sure their products were appealing to their target audiences. It was common for toy producers to observe popular culture and try to incorporate modern ideas into their creations.

The increasing popularity of television also changed the toy industry as it provided a new avenue for advertising. With larger audiences, companies could reach their consumers more effectively and efficiently. As product placement began to emerge, toy companies wanted to be included in television shows and movies, creating more opportunities for profits and increased visibility.

One of the biggest practical changes for toy companies was the rise of computer-aided design (CAD). CAD allowed designers to create detailed 3D models of toys quickly that could be put into production right away. It also enabled them to cut costs associated with manufacturing. CAD paved the way for an increase in improvement cycles, leading to more innovative designs and options for the consumer.

In addition to technological advancements, the legal industry also affected toy production. Companies had to be more mindful of safety regulations and comply with the appropriate standards to make sure their products were safe for children. This increased the cost of production but provided a sense of security for consumers and buyers alike.

Enduring Influence of Classic Toys

The toys from decades past are often considered iconic and their influence can still be seen in modern toy production and design. Over a chosen decade, there are a few stand-out toys that have left a lasting impression on the industry.

One example is the Rubik’s cube from the 80s. This classic puzzle toy remains a popular game even today due to its simple rules, complexity, and challenging nature. Although the design has not changed significantly since it was introduced, it has inspired an entire section of puzzle toys across all age ranges.

Teddy bears, always a popular childhood companion, have also had a long-lasting influence. First popularized during the early 20th century, teddy bears remain a key toy for all ages both then and now. Though the designs of teddy bears have changed significantly since then, they remain a sentimental favorite among many.

Other toys that have made a lasting mark include Polly Pocket, Barbie, Lego, and Hot Wheels. All of these toys have evolved and been adapted over the years, yet continue to represent the play styles of that decade.

This goes to show that classic toys remain popular as a way to bridge generations and bring joy to different generations, with each person changing or adapting them in their own unique way.

Conclusion

The past decade has certainly had its own unique toy trends and influences, from cultural phenomena to industry shifts. Toys that were popular during this period of time remain incredibly influential today, inspiring children’s imaginations all around the world. Whether it be action figures, board games, stuffed animals, or cars, these iconic toys remind us of the fond memories we made during the time and will continue to transport us back to those special times years and decades later.

To paraphrase a famous proverb, “A toy is something that smiles, warms, and entertains us”. The toys from the chosen decade are no exception and continue to entertain children and adults alike, even after years of being on the shelves. So the next time you walk through the toy aisle, take a moment to appreciate the classic toys that have come before, and think about the place they hold in our collective consciousness.

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