Announcing the 2025 Toy Hall of Fame Finalists

Get ready, toy enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers! The National Toy Hall of Fame at The Strong Museum in Rochester, New York, has just unveiled its much-anticipated list of finalists for the class of 2025. This year’s selection once again features a fascinating mix of classic playthings, modern marvels, and enduring favorites that have captivated generations.

The inductees, chosen for their longevity, innovation, and impact on play, will join an esteemed group of toys that includes everything from the humble Stick to the mighty LEGO. The excitement is palpable as we ponder which of these iconic contenders will earn their permanent place in toy history.

Here are the 2025 Toy Hall of Fame Finalists:

The Contenders:

1. Catan

From humble beginnings in Germany, Catan (formerly Settlers of Catan) burst onto the scene in 1995 and almost single-handedly revolutionized the board game industry. This strategic game of trading, building, and resource management introduced a generation to the “Eurogame” style and proved that board games could be complex, engaging, and social without relying on dice rolls for combat. Catan’s enduring popularity and countless expansions speak to its profound impact on how families and friends gather to play.

2. Fisher-Price Little People

A true staple of childhoods for over 60 years, Fisher-Price Little People have evolved but never lost their charm. Starting as simple wooden figures, these chunky, friendly characters and their accompanying playsets (farms, houses, schools, and more) have encouraged imaginative play, storytelling, and social development for millions of toddlers and preschoolers. Their safe, durable design and comforting presence make them a perennial favorite.

3. Pictionary

“What am I drawing?!” Since its debut in 1985, Pictionary has been the go-to game for hilarious guessing and artistic (or not-so-artistic) expression. This classic party game challenges players to draw clues for their teammates to guess, leading to uproarious laughter, creative interpretations, and sometimes, utterly baffling sketches. Pictionary’s simple concept and universal appeal have cemented its place in game night rotations worldwide.

4. The Game Boy

In 1989, Nintendo unleashed a phenomenon that would forever change portable entertainment: the Game Boy. This monochromatic handheld console, with its sturdy design, long battery life, and killer app (Tetris!), put gaming power directly into the hands of millions. It wasn’t just a toy; it was a cultural icon that defined a generation’s mobile gaming experience and paved the way for every handheld device that followed.

5. Lite-Brite

“Lite-Brite, Lite-Brite, turn on the magic of colored light!” This iconic toy from Hasbro, first introduced in 1967, allows users to create glowing pictures by pushing colorful translucent pegs into a backlit grid. Combining art, light, and a touch of magic, Lite-Brite has sparked creativity and wonder for decades, offering a unique sensory experience that continues to captivate.

6. Sand

Yes, you read that right – Sand! Often overlooked as a “toy,” sand is perhaps the most ancient and fundamental play material. From building towering castles on the beach to sifting through a sandbox, sand offers endless tactile exploration, imaginative construction, and open-ended play opportunities that have delighted children for millennia. Its inclusion highlights the Hall of Fame’s recognition of universal, natural play elements.

What Happens Next?

The public is invited to cast their votes for their favorite finalists from September 18 to September 25. This “Player’s Choice” ballot will count as one vote alongside those cast by the National Toy Hall of Fame’s expert selection committee.

The final inductees for the Class of 2025 will be announced during a special ceremony at The Strong Museum in November.

Our Thoughts on the Finalists:

This year’s list is particularly strong, showcasing the incredible diversity of what we consider a “toy.” Catan and Pictionary represent the enduring power of social board games, while Little People and Lite-Brite highlight classic creative play. The Game Boy is an undeniable technological milestone, and the inclusion of Sand reminds us that sometimes the simplest things offer the richest play experiences.

Who do you think deserves a spot in the prestigious Toy Hall of Fame? Cast your vote and join the conversation!