The Best Toys of the 80s

The 1980s was a decade of neon colors, big hair, and some of the most iconic toys that shaped the childhoods of an entire generation. From action figures to video games, the 80s brought a wave of innovative and imaginative playthings that have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the five best toys of the 80s that continue to hold a special place in the hearts of both children and adults.

1. Transformers

Released by Hasbro in 1984, Transformers quickly became a phenomenon, captivating young minds and sparking the imaginations of countless kids. These action figures were unique in their ability to transform from vehicles or animals into humanoid robots and vice versa. The line featured beloved characters like Optimus Prime, Megatron, Bumblebee, and Starscream, each with its distinct personality and backstory. The appeal of Transformers lay not only in their cool transformations but also in the epic battles between the Autobots and Decepticons, which played out in animated TV shows, comic books, and movies. 

2. Rubik's Cube

In 1980, the Rubik's Cube took the world by storm, becoming one of the most popular and challenging puzzles ever created. Invented by Hungarian architect Ernő Rubik, the cube featured six faces, each consisting of nine small colored squares. The goal was to twist and turn the cube's faces until each side displayed a single color. This seemingly simple task, however, proved to be a brain-teasing challenge that captivated puzzle enthusiasts worldwide. Its popularity led to numerous competitions and speed-solving events, where participants competed to solve the cube in record time. To this day, the Rubik's Cube remains a classic toy and an emblem of the 80s, proving that a seemingly straightforward toy can hold timeless appeal.

3. Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)

Released in 1985, the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) revolutionized the video game industry and introduced a new era of home gaming. The NES came with a console, a pair of controllers, and the iconic game Super Mario Bros., which starred Mario, the Italian plumber, on a quest to rescue Princess Peach from the villainous Bowser. With its 8-bit graphics and catchy soundtracks, Super Mario Bros. quickly became a sensation, and the NES soared in popularity. The NES introduced players to a variety of captivating games, including The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and Mega Man, among others. Today, the NES holds a special place in the hearts of gamers, with many still cherishing their original systems or revisiting classic NES titles on modern gaming platforms.

4. My Little Pony

Debuting in 1983, My Little Pony quickly became a cherished toy line for young girls, encouraging friendship, imagination, and creative play. Created by Hasbro, the ponies were characterized by their unique designs, colorful manes, and cutie marks on their flanks, representing their special talents and personalities. The toys were accompanied by an animated TV series and a line of storybooks that further endeared the characters to children everywhere. The popularity of My Little Pony extended beyond the toy realm, inspiring a sense of collectibility and camaraderie among young fans. Many children delighted in grooming and styling their ponies' manes and trading accessories, fostering a sense of community around the brand. 

5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Cowabunga, dude! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) burst onto the toy scene in 1988, combining martial arts, humor, and teamwork to create an instant hit. These anthropomorphic turtles - Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael - were trained in ninjitsu by their sensei, Splinter, a rat mutated by the same ooze that transformed the turtles. The action figures featured remarkable detail, articulation, and accessories, allowing children to recreate epic battles against villains like Shredder and the Foot Clan. The turtles' pizza-loving, wise-cracking personalities endeared them to fans worldwide, making them cultural icons of the 80s and beyond. To this day, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles remain an integral part of popular culture, continuing to inspire new generations of fans.