Starlog returns as annual publication, Rubik’s Cube gets first major redesign in 50 years, Nintendo seeks digital archivist, and more
Six intriguing articles related to toys, games, and nostalgia that have hit the news this week.
Karate Chop Game from Milton Bradley (1970)
Released by Milton Bradley in 1970, Karate Chop was a two-player action game that challenged players to strike a foam brick while their opponent attempted to move it out of the way.
Astro-Sound Space Toys from Hasbro (1969)
Released by Hasbro in 1969, Astro-Sound Space Toys was a line of four space-themed toys that let children hear recorded messages as they moved miniature vehicles and robots along a specially designed sound track.
Ryan Cobham, Kenner Super Powers
Ryan Cobham collects Kenner Super Powers figures. In this Collector Spotlight, he explains the vital role of research and knowledge in collecting and why nostalgia continues to fuel his passion for the iconic line.
Chaz Howard, Eric Battle, The Black Hero’s Journey
Chaz Howard of the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia-based illustrator Eric Battle discuss The Black Hero’s Journey, an exhibit exploring the history and evolution of Black comic book characters and creators, in this edition of The Friday Five.
Cadaco
Explore the 75-year history of Cadaco, the American game company behind Tripoley, All-Star Baseball, and generations of inventive tabletop play.
Star Trek Collection from Le Creuset
Le Creuset celebrates 60 years of Star Trek with a limited-edition collection of cookware and kitchen accessories inspired by the science fiction franchise.
Entex 1980 Toy Catalogue
This 24-page 1980 toy catalogue from Entex Industries of Compton, California, showcased the company’s assortment of construction toys, electronic games, motorized vehicles and activity games.
Why You Should Keep Provenance and Purchase Records
Documenting provenance can preserve the history behind your vintage toys. Here are four tips for keeping purchase records and important details together.
Gene Roddenberry’s original name for the USS Enterprise was the USS Yorktown. It was renamed Enterprise after the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
Gene Roddenberry continually reminded us that the Star Trek Enterprise was a metaphor for starship Earth. And the strength in this starship came from its diversity, coming together and working in concert as a team. That is the strength of our countries, Canada and the United States. We are nations of diversity. "
— George Takei
Power Glove from Mattel (1989)
Mattel’s 1989 Power Glove promised NES players a new way to control their favourite games using hand movements, finger gestures, and a programmable keypad.
Cardboard Marble Run
Build a cardboard marble run—complete with elevator lift—with this tutorial from the Liberman YouTube channel.
Rubik’s Magic Puzzle from Irwin (1986)
“The cube was easy. I dare you to link the links.”
