Top 10 Decade Defining Toys of the 2010s
Sometimes, it's more than just a toy. From Monster High Dolls, to NERF Zombie Strike Toys, to Angry Birds merchandise, these toys were iconic in their time. WatchMojo counts down ten decade defining toys.
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Top 10 Decade Defining Toys of the 2010s
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Sometimes, it’s more than just a toy. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the Top 10 Decade Defining Toys of the 2010s. For this list, we focused on successful toy lines that maintained popularity through the 2010s, even if they were introduced before the decade.
#10: BB-8 Sphero
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Everyone’s favorite droid comes rolling into your home ready to take you on a journey “far far way”. Equipped with the signature “Sphero” technology, this lovable robot not only rolls around, but responds to user commands, provides holographic messaging, and even uses audio cues to react to scenes in The Force Awakens, all through a simple to use smartphone application. Though carrying a hefty price-tag, this toy was one of the most sought-after pieces of merchandise from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, becoming a must-have during the 2015 Christmas season. Whether you had it as your new friend, or used it to scare your pets, this toy is fun for everyone (except for your pets…)!
#9: Monster High Dolls
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Inspired by famous monsters from movies and literature, these dolls burst into life in 2010 thanks to Garrett Sander. Borrowing from the styles of Lady Gaga and Tim Burton, the dolls were created to capitalize on young girls changing interest into darker, Goth fashion. With each doll variation pulling unique attributes from the monster it is based off, such as Dracula’s fangs or Frankenstein’s green skin, these pieces of plastic offered a unique entryway into the world of horror. Reaching immense popularity from the initial release, the license has now been featured in video games, TV specials, and merchandise. Scaring parent’s wallets since 2010, it doesn’t look like class is ending anytime soon.
#8: NERF Zombie Strike Toys
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Nothing says childhood like launching a foam missile at your unsuspecting friend. Capitalizing on the popularity of the US College phenomenon called “Human Vs. Zombies”, which is a tag-like game where “human” characters use sock balls, marshmallows, and foam dart guns to defend themselves against “zombie” characters, NERF Zombie Strike offers a unique way to fight for the good guys. Sporting a post-apocalyptic design with a neon green and highlighter orange color scheme, NERF created state-of-the-art weaponry such as Brainsaws and crossfire bows to ensure the safety of humanity everywhere. Whether your choice of weapon is conventional or not, kids – and even adults can join the fight against the walking dead.
#7: Angry Birds Merchandise
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One of the most successful mobile applications on the planet, the Angry Birds license has been soaring high since 2009. In 2011, Helsinki Finland became home to the first ever large-scale retail shop, which looked to capitalize on the game’s fast growing market. From board games to plush animals, Angry Birds merchandise accounted for over 40% of game developers Rovio’s revenues in 2012. One of its most popular toys, “Telepods”, allowed users to teleport physical figures into various mobile games, much like Amiibo despite being released first. Securing licenses from Stars Wars to Lego to its own original movie adaption, Angry Birds has been able to maintain its temper through the decade.
#6: Lego Ninjago
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Discover Ninjago, an ancient and mythical land populated by dragons, forces of evil, and of course, badass ninjas. Produced alongside the popular TV Show “Lego Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu”, Lego has released over 100 sets of its popular building bricks and unique mini-figures sine 2011. Spun out of the popularity and commercial success of “The Lego Movie” and “The Lego Batman Movie,” the company went on to confirm Lego Ninjago as the theme for the company’s next feature film, which came out in September 2017. Ninjago is destined to be a mainstay for years, just make sure you don’t step on a brick.
#5: Disney’s ‘Frozen’ Merchandise
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Since 2013, Frozen fever has made its power known worldwide. After the blockbuster’s initial release, Frozen brand items became the single most demanded items at The Disney Store with certain limited edition items reaching over $1000 on Ebay. Labeled by Disney itself as a top 5 property, the Christmas season of 2014 saw Frozen merchandise take the #1 spot on “holiday wish list for girls” from 11-year winner Barbie. Featuring items such as Skating Anna and Singing Elsa, retail titan Walmart went into its holiday season with 700 distinct Frozen items. With toys still being produced and selling as of 2017, this juggernaut refuses to let it go.
#4: ZhuZhu Pets
The perfect medium between having a real life pet, and not having to clean up poop, Zhu Zhu Pets are a child’s best friend. These motorized hamsters provided unpredictable entertainment as they scurried around kitchen floors and interacted with surrounding environments. Due to increased popularity, harder to find Zhu Zhu Pets outgrew their $8-$15 retail price, fetching premium prices on the aftermarket. In an attempt to bring more boys into the world of Zhu, ninja and special forces-themed hamsters were created, dubbed Kung Zhu. In 2016, an animated series based on the franchise was released on Disney Channel, paving the way for lasting popularity.
#3: Bakugan Strategic Game
A game that mixes nerve, complexity, and skill, Bakugan took the classic game of marbles to a whole new level. In the Bakugan Battle Brawlers game, players take spring-loaded mini-figures and flick them onto the game surface where they pop into battle once landing on metal Bakugan Cards. The game rolled itself into mainstream success with the release of the animated show of the same name and has since been consistently rated as one of the top-rated children’s toys. In 2009, Bakugan received the award for Property of the Year and maintained a dedicated following throughout the early 2010s. Amp up your G-Power, and get ready for battle!
#2: Amiibo
Arguably the most successful toy-to-life figures, Nintendo one-upped its game in 2014 with the release of Amiibo. Acting similarly to Skylanders and Disney Infinity, Nintendo produced figures of its most beloved characters that could be transported into the digital world through the Wii U or New Nintendo 3DS. Featuring the likes of Mario and Samus, hunting down figures proved to be a challenge for collectors, with error pieces such as Legless Princess Peach and two canon Samus reaching premium pricing in aftermarket sales. Leading up to the initial release, the pre-order process managed to crash GameStop’s system, with gamers persistently trying to secure figures from Splatoon and Super Smash Brothers series 4. Oh, Mamma Mia! Before we unveil our top pick, here are some honorable mentions: Littlest Pet Shops Shopkins Hatchimals
#1: Funko POP! Vinyl
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Massive heads and black eyes didn’t stop these vinyl figures from causing hysteria among collectors since their 2010 debut. With a very Japanese Chibi style, the collectible line carries 100s of licenses, from Star Wars, to Marvel, to Stranger Things, to Rick and Morty, ensuring every collector is well represented. Getting in on the action, big retailers, such as Target and Walmart promoted their own exclusive figures, opening the floodgates for the mass consumer. Despite being compared to the beanie babies of the modern generation, the unique design of the figures in addition to incredible licensing deals will ensure that Funko POP! keeps on popping.
