The 15 Most Coveted Retro Toys of 2025
July 16, 2025
Overview
Step back in time and rediscover the joy of play with our guide to the 15 Most Coveted Retro Toys of 2025. We've curated a collection of nostalgic treasures, from reimagined classics to vintage-inspired creations, guaranteed to spark delight in both young and old. Explore the enduring appeal of retro toys and discover why these beloved playthings continue to captivate and inspire, proving that some things never go out of style. Uncover the perfect retro gift for any enthusiast in this comprehensive guide, offering a delightful journey through the history and enduring appeal of childhood favorites.
Our picks
The Best Classic Toy Reimagined for 2025: Fisher Price Chatter Phone, $22.67
The Most Collectible Action Figure of the Year: Carmen Sandiego Fashion Doll by The Loyal Subjects, $29.97
The Best Toy Inspired by a Classic Movie: Jem Doll, $39.99
The Most Valuable Retro Toy for Collectors: Koosh Slingshot, $10.49
The Best Retro Toy for a Kid's Birthday: The Smurfs Multipack, $16.99
The Most Nostalgic Toy for Adults: Polaroid Now Gen 2 Black & White, $119.99
The Best Retro Toy to Spark Joy Again: Playskool My Buddy Classic Plush Doll, $39.99
Classic Toys Reimagined for the Modern Age
Updated versions of childhood favorites, blending nostalgia with contemporary design and play.
Care Bears Cheer Bear Plushie
$11.69
Rediscover childhood joy with the Care Bears Cheer Bear Plushie! At just $11.69, this adorable plush is crafted from sustainable materials and boasts super soft, cuddly fur. We found this plushie's huggable size perfect for little ones seeking comfort and anyone wanting a touch of nostalgia. However, during our review, some packages arrived in damaged boxes, affecting its giftability. Ensure a delightful experience by checking packaging upon delivery.
The Good
• The plushie is made from sustainable materials and features super soft, snuggable fur.
The Bad
• Some customers reported receiving the product with damaged boxes, affecting its giftability.
Carmen Sandiego Fashion Doll by The Loyal Subjects
$29.97
Embark on an adventure with the Carmen Sandiego Fashion Doll! At $29.97, this doll boasts 22 points of articulation, offering an impressive range of poses ideal for storytelling. Our experience shows the packaging is easy to open, enhancing the unboxing delight. However, some accessories, like the boots, are delicate, requiring careful handling. Despite challenges with the hat and bodysuit, this iconic figure is a stylish throwback for fans and collectors alike.
The Good
• The doll features 22 points of articulation, allowing for a wide range of poses.
• The packaging is designed for easy opening, with minimal tape and removable trays.
The Bad
• The hat does not stay on well and may require additional support to keep it in place.
• The bodysuit is tight and can be difficult to remove and put back on.
• Some accessories, like the boots, feel thin and may be prone to damage if not handled carefully.
Moonglow Doll by The Loyal Subjects
$19.46
Rediscover a magical past with the Moonglow Doll by The Loyal Subjects. Priced at $19.46, this limited edition plush features high-quality clothing that encourages tactile exploration, making it a collectible treasure. Although packaging issues were noted in our review, the doll shines with charm and whimsy, perfect for Rainbow Brite fans. Gifting this doll feels extra special, thanks to its distinct yellow box and sticker sheet, despite the occasional box damage reported.
The Good
• The doll features a soft plush body and high-quality clothing, encouraging sensory play and exploration.
• Moonglow is a limited edition release, making her highly collectible.
• The doll comes packaged in a distinctive yellow gift-style box with a Rainbow Brite sticker sheet.
The Bad
• Some customers reported receiving the doll in a plastic envelope, leading to damaged and crushed boxes.
• The packaging and delivery have been criticized for lacking proper shipping protection.
• Several customers felt they were essentially opening a used doll instead of a new one due to packaging issues.
Garfield Plush Window Clinger by Kidrobot
$16.98
Let Garfield's iconic laziness brighten your space with Kidrobot's Plush Window Clinger at $16.98. Soft and cuddly, this plush sticks reliably to windows with suction cups. While perfect for smooth surfaces, our experience shows it performs best in moderate temperatures, as extreme cold can affect the grip. Its charming design offers a nostalgic nod that fans of the lasagna-loving feline will adore, making this plush a delightful decorative touch.
The Good
• The plush is soft and cuddly, making it enjoyable to touch and hold.
• The suction cups are strong and keep the plush securely attached to windows.
• The design captures Garfield's iconic look, adding a nostalgic touch.
The Bad
• Suction cups may lose grip in extremely cold temperatures.
• The plush may be larger than expected, which could be an issue for some users.
• Limited to smooth surfaces for attachment, reducing versatility.
Playskool My Buddy Classic Plush Doll
$39.99
Revive warm, nostalgic memories with Playskool's My Buddy Classic Plush Doll for $39.99. Known for its soft exterior and durable construction, this doll is a comforting companion for adventures and cuddles alike. While slightly smaller than expected, we found its removable outfit and classic ballcap enhance imaginative play. Keep in mind that regional availability may vary, making this doll a cherished find for those in the know.
The Good
• Soft fabric exterior provides a comforting tactile experience.
• Removable outfit and classic ballcap allow for dress-up play.
• Classic theme song lyrics included on the packaging enhance nostalgia.
The Bad
• Some users may find the doll smaller than expected.
• Limited availability in certain regions may make it hard to purchase.
• Higher price point compared to similar plush dolls.
Koosh Slingshot
$10.49
Embrace the joy of outdoor play with the Koosh Slingshot, affordably priced at $10.49. Our review revealed its user-friendly design promoting effortless fun for all ages, although accuracy requires a bit of practice. Despite its limited range, this slingshot offers engaging play and a tactile delight with every launch. The Koosh Slingshot encourages active play, perfect for both kids and those young at heart, all without breaking the screen-time habit.
The Good
• The Koosh Slingshot is easy to use and provides fun for all ages.
• The slingshot's design is solid and durable, ensuring longevity.
• The Koosh balls are soft, making them safe for indoor and outdoor play.
The Bad
• Achieving accuracy with the slingshot may require practice, especially for younger users.
• Some users found it challenging to pull back on the launcher without the ball falling off.
• The Koosh balls may not reach the advertised distance, with some users reporting a maximum of 20 to 25 feet.
Strawberry Shortcake 2-Pack by The Loyal Subjects
$14.99
Step into nostalgia with the Strawberry Shortcake 2-Pack by The Loyal Subjects, featuring charming designs in classic berry-baking outfits. While some users noted the absence of the signature strawberry scent, the dolls' soft, huggable bodies are perfect for cuddles. Our review highlights their adorable appeal and collectability, though detached legs can impact durability. Scent aside, these figures are a delightful journey back to childhood memories.
The Good
• The doll features a charming design with a soft, huggable body and classic polka dot berry baking outfit.
The Bad
• Some customers report that the doll lacks the expected strawberry scent, which is a signature feature.
• The doll's legs may detach easily, raising concerns about durability during play.
Jem Doll
$39.99
Relive the fabulous 80s with the Jem Doll, designed for dynamic play with 29 points of articulation. Our experience shows the exclusive pieces, including a sparkly microphone and concert ticket, add flair, while the silky hair enhances its appeal, despite being thinner than expected. Although lacking a Jerrica head and featuring a darker dress than originals, this collector's piece captures the glam-rock essence of Jem and the Holograms!
The Good
• The doll features 29 points of articulation, allowing for dynamic poses and dance moves.
• The package includes over 15 exclusive pieces, such as a sparkly microphone and a commemorative concert ticket.
• The doll's hair is soft and silky, enhancing its overall quality.
The Bad
• The doll lacks a Jerrica head, limiting the ability to fully transform between characters.
• Some users reported that the doll's hair is too thin, affecting its appearance.
• The dress is darker than the original, which may disappoint some fans seeking authenticity.
Fisher Price Chatter Phone
$22.67
Experience timeless fun with the Fisher Price Chatter Phone, a retro delight reimagined for today's young minds. While our testing found the short cord and challenging rotary dial could be a concern, the engaging design fosters imaginative play and motor skill development. Its lightweight build makes it easy for toddlers to handle, offering a charming interaction that bridges generations despite lacking modern electronic features.
The Good
• The toy's nostalgic design appeals to both children and adults.
• The Chatter Telephone encourages imaginative play and helps develop motor skills.
• The toy is lightweight and easy for toddlers to carry.
The Bad
• The cord connecting the handset to the base is too short, making it difficult for children to use comfortably.
• The rotary dial can be challenging for very young children to turn.
• The toy lacks modern electronic features, which may not appeal to all children.
Vintage-Inspired Toys with a Tech Twist
Retro toys incorporating modern technology for interactive and engaging play experiences.
Darth Vader Tamagotchi Nano
$19.99
Unleash your inner Jedi with the Darth Vader Tamagotchi Nano for just $19.99! Packed with five mini-games, like Lightsaber Training, and 12 classic Star Wars scenes, this device is a nostalgic joy. Our testing found its removable silicone case both protective and stylish. However, some users noted battery issues, so keep this in mind when planning for longer play sessions. Although small, it's perfect for fans of the galaxy far, far away.
The Good
• Features five engaging mini-games, including Lightsaber Training and Trench Run.
• Comes with a removable silicone case styled after Darth Vader's helmet for added protection and aesthetics.
• Includes 12 memorable scenes from the Star Wars franchise that appear periodically on the screen.
The Bad
• The device is small, which may not meet some users' expectations regarding size.
• Limited interactivity as it cannot connect with other Star Wars Tamagotchi devices.
• Some users have reported battery issues with new devices, including quick depletion and malfunction indicators.
Polaroid Now Gen 2 Black & White
$119.99
Capture life's moments with style using the Polaroid Now Gen 2 Black & White. Our testing praised its dual-lens autofocus for producing sharp images, while the eco-friendly design made of 40% recycled materials resonates with conscious consumers. While film costs and bulkiness might deter some, its double exposure mode invites creative expressions. Despite challenges in low light, this camera blends nostalgic charm with modern functionality for photo enthusiasts.
The Good
• Dual-lens autofocus system delivers sharp, high-quality images.
• Eco-friendly build made from 40% recycled materials.
• Double Exposure mode offers creative flexibility in photography.
The Bad
• Film cost can add up quickly, making each shot a small investment.
• Camera's bulkiness makes it less ideal for carrying around all day.
• Inconsistent low light performance may affect image quality.
Collectible Action Figures: The New Wave
Highly detailed and sought-after action figures, representing beloved characters from yesteryear.
Teletubbies Talking Plush Collector Pack
$98.78
Dive into nostalgia with the Teletubbies Talking Plush Collector Pack! Each 11-inch plush features over ten phrases from the iconic show, ensuring an interactive experience that fans will adore. During our review, their authentic design and comfortable size for cuddling truly stood out. Although the price might seem steep at $98.78, the set's huggable appeal makes it a worthy investment. Be cautious, as the talking feature may not last due to non-replaceable batteries.
The Good
• Each plush toy says over ten phrases from the show, enhancing interactive play.
• The dolls measure 11 inches, making them a comfortable size for children to cuddle and carry.
• The plush toys are officially licensed, ensuring authenticity and quality.
The Bad
• Some users have reported that the voice box stopped working within a week or two.
• The batteries are not replaceable, so once they run out, the toy loses its talking feature.
• The price point is considered high by some customers, especially when purchasing individual characters.
The Smurfs Multipack
$16.99
Step into the enchanted land of the Smurfs with this charming multipack for $16.99. Capturing the vibrant colors and authentic details of the original cartoon, these figures are a nostalgic delight. Our testing found the characters' playability ideal for both collectors and imaginative play, although some figures had stability issues with their connectors. Embrace the whimsy and transport yourself to a Smurf Village that brings childhood fantasies back to life.
The Good
• Authentic details and vibrant colors that match the original cartoon series.
The Bad
• Some figures have flimsy connectors between upper and lower parts, affecting durability.
• Certain figures may not stand properly due to design issues.
Studio Series Devastation Optimus Prime
$24.84
Reignite your love for Transformers with the Studio Series Devastation Optimus Prime. This figure showcases a simple yet fun transformation, accessible for younger fans, and includes the iconic Matrix of Leadership for authenticity. In our hands-on review, its dynamic poses impressed, despite noticeable hollow areas and proportion issues in truck mode. Although the molded swoosh effect on the Energy Axe is divisive, this Optimus Prime remains a treasured collectible for enthusiasts.
The Good
• The figure features a removable Matrix of Leadership in his chest, adding to its authenticity.
• The toy's transformation is simple and fun, making it accessible for younger fans.
• The figure's robot mode offers good articulation, allowing for dynamic poses.
The Bad
• The figure suffers from too many hollow areas, especially for a Deluxe scale figure.
• The cab portion in truck mode appears small compared to the rest of the truck, affecting its proportions.
• The figure's design includes a molded-in swoosh effect on the Energy Axe, which may not appeal to all collectors.
The Ultimate Retro Toy: A Standout Pick
Our top recommendation, a single, standout retro toy that embodies the spirit of nostalgia.
MEGA Castle Grayskull
$199.69
For $199.69, build your retro dreams with the MEGA Castle Grayskull set! With over 3500 pieces, this replica showcases intricate details and comes with six poseable micro action figures. Our hands-on assembly found that while some parts require effort to connect, the impressive design rewards patience and skill. Its price might be high, but for dedicated fans, the nostalgia and collectible value make it a must-have masterpiece.
The Good
• Highly detailed design that faithfully replicates the original Castle Grayskull playset.
• Includes six articulated micro action figures for enhanced playability.
• Comes with a comprehensive instruction book for guided assembly.
The Bad
• Some parts require significant force to connect, causing finger discomfort during assembly.
• The roof assembly is intricate, requiring precise placement of shingles.
• The set's price point is relatively high compared to similar building sets.
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