Today the finalists for this year’s inductees into Rochester, New York’s National Toy Hall of Fame were announced. Some real classics! You can check the organization’s website for all of the toys and details by clicking here. One of these finalists really hits home with me. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. I LOVED those toys/the cartoon. Definitely deserves to be in the Hall of Fame! I had quite the collection and kept them in a box at my parents house for years. People make fun of me for being a pack-rat but these toys were special. Me being a hoarder (not to be confused with Masters of the Universe villains The Evil Horde) paid off, when I finally got to give my He-Men to my young son. Did I say give? I meant to say lend. He was so pumped, he broke of Spikor’s leg right away. I tried to disguise that fact by tucking him off to the side in this photo.
Also making the finals, another toy that was paired with a successful cartoon. Care Bears! I also had one of these. I was at the age where you like whatever your older sibling likes, so I got a Cheer Bear because my sister had one. Interesting fact about the Care Bears, they started out as a line of greeting cards!
Another toy from this era potentially being enshrined is the My Little Pony line. Did you know these little horsies actually outsold Barbies for several years? I only know this because I just read it. I swear, I AM NOT A BRONY!
A couple of great games making the cut. First up, Jenga! A favourite of handy people everywhere who make giant versions for the friends and families. This game also showed me that “Twin Brains” are a real thing. I was in the basement with one twinner, and she said “You know what I haven’t played in so long? Jenga!” A couple minutes later her sister came down and said “Do you guys want to play Jenga?” It was crazy.
This one is a game that can go on and on. I’ve had some real Risk battles and lost most but I do have some advice that comes from my wisened friend Tito, a successful campaign begins with Australia.
Another classic on the list, the Fisher-Price Corn Popper! These things were everywhere! This one should also be in the Dogs Hate These Toys Hall of Fame.
What are some toys you think should be in the Hall of Fame? Let me know in the comments!
