Toys · 2021
Plush Obsessions and Massive Brick Sets of 2021
In 2021, toy aisles were defined by viral sensation plushies, ambitious LEGO builds, and a roaring resurgence in nostalgic trading cards. Families and collectors alike sought comfort and playful distraction through tactile fidgets and immersive tabletop board games.
- Jazwares / Kellytoy | Plush Craze
Squishmallows Plush Line
Viral social media trends fueled an unprecedented craze for these super-soft plush companions, turning rare characters like Cam the Cat into highly sought-after collector items worldwide.
- The LEGO Group | Creator Expert Set
LEGO Titanic (Set #10294)
Measuring over four feet long with 9,090 pieces, this massive replica of the iconic ocean liner debuted in late 2021 as one of LEGO's largest and most ambitious sets ever.
- The Pokémon Company | Trading Cards
Pokémon TCG: Celebrations
Released for the franchise's 25th anniversary, this special card set sparked massive store queues and online rushes as fans clamored for classic card reprints like Base Set Charizard.
- FoxMind / Various | Playground Craze
Pop It! Fidget Toys
These colorful silicone bubble-popping toys became a ubiquitous viral phenomenon across schoolyards and social feeds, serving as both tactile fidget tools and casual sensory games.
- MGA Entertainment | Fashion Dolls
Rainbow High Fashion Dolls
With detailed colorful outfits, articulated joints, and a companion animated web series, MGA's stylish doll line became a dominant force on toy shelves throughout 2021.
- Flatout Games / AEG | Board Game
Cascadia
This elegant 2021 tile-laying board game captivated tabletop gamers with its tranquil Pacific Northwest wildlife themes and accessible yet deep strategic gameplay.
- Mattel | Action Figures
Masters of the Universe: Masterverse
Mattel launched this highly articulated seven-inch action figure line in 2021, celebrating the release of Netflix's animated series Masters of the Universe: Revelation.
- Wizards of the Coast | TCG Expansion
Magic: The Gathering - Modern Horizons 2
Released in June 2021, this flagship card expansion revitalized competitive play and became one of the highest-selling Magic sets in the game's historic run.
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