Toys · 2016
Interactive Pets, Unboxing Surprises, and Playground Crazes
In 2016, the toy industry was defined by mystery unboxing phenomena and high-tech interactive companions that captured children's imaginations. Viral playground trends and record-breaking board game releases made it a landmark year for playful innovation.
- Spin Master | Interactive Plush
Hatchimals
Children nurtured glowing, spotted eggs until the surprise robotic creature inside pecked its own way out, creating the undisputed sell-out frenzy of the 2016 holiday season.
- MGA Entertainment | Collectible Dolls
L.O.L. Surprise! Dolls
Capitalizing on the viral unboxing trend, these secret multi-layered mystery spheres wrapped tiny dolls and accessories in layers of peelable foil.
- The LEGO Group | Construction Set
LEGO Disney Castle (Set 71040)
Featuring over 4,000 pieces, this massive, highly detailed replica of the iconic Walt Disney World resort landmark became a crowning achievement for adult builders and Disney fans.
- Stonemaier Games | Board Game
Scythe
Set in an alternate-history 1920s Europa, this acclaimed strategy board game captivated tabletop gamers with its engine-building mechanics and striking mecha artwork.
- Global | Playground Craze
Water Bottle Flipping
Sparked by a viral talent show video, schoolkids everywhere obsessed over landing partially filled plastic water bottles upright on various surfaces.
- The Pokémon Company | Trading Cards
Pokémon TCG: XY—Evolutions
Released during Pokémon's 20th anniversary, this expansion reimagined classic Base Set card art with updated game stats, driving intense nostalgia among long-time collectors.
- Mattel | Action Figures
DC Super Hero Girls Action Figures
Mattel launched 12-inch, fully articulated figures of Wonder Woman, Supergirl, and Batgirl tailored specifically for young girls, reshaping the superhero aisle.
- Hasbro Gaming | Party Game
Pie Face Showdown!
Building on the viral success of the original, this head-to-head whipping cream game challenged players to button-mash fastest to avoid a face full of whipped cream.
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