Vintage Toys & Games

Dubbed “America’s newest game sensation” when it was released in the U.S.A. in 1958, the Bob-A-Loop was a short-lived fad.

Yakkity Yob’s quirky design, operation, and full-colour, store-quality display packaging make this toy a highly valued fan favourite in the world of collectible robots.

In 1965, amateur bakers were able to make cookies on their own, thanks to the Junior Chef Cookie Factory released by Argo Industries. Fully baked cookies emerged in about 12 minutes.

A year-end top 10 list of the most popular articles on Toy Tales based on readership statistics and engagement through various social media channels.

In 1962, Milton Bradley released Lolli Plop, a brainteaser in lollipop form.

With iconic toy manufacturer Mego returning to toy shelves, we’re faced with the wonderful notion that for the first time in 35 years, children (and many adults) will unwrap Mego toys this Christmas. We thought it would be fun to look at just a few of Mego’s most popular Christmas items from their glory days.

First launched in 1989, Polly Pocket has been rebooted by Mattel. With a new “Tiny is Mighty” tagline, the miniature playsets feature some serious upgrades.

We recommend these ingenious, creative, and obscure items to surprise and thrill the people on your gift list!

For over 50 years, budding physicians have been able to hone their fine motor skills by playing the game of Operation, the “wacky doctors’ game.”

Explore LEGO’s popular Winter Village sets with Graham Hancock, LEGO collector and deputy editor of Blocks magazine.

Clancy the Great is of the more peculiar entries in the annals of Ideal Toy Company’s product lines.

KerPlunk debuted in 1967. There are Despicable Me, Jurassic World, giant, and mini variations.

Released in 1970, the Mini Diesel Mod-Pad Carrier was one of the “tru-smoke” toys from New Jersey-based Remco that emitted “clean, harmless smoke” while it operated.

Anne D. Williams – puzzle historian, collector, published author, and professor – writes about the history and appeal of jigsaw puzzles.

Released in 1965 by Kenner, Jet-Strike Bowling tested the skills of amateur bowlers outside of the bowling alley.

Tony Temple – arcade game historian, collector, and writer – explains why so many classic video games are set in space.

Trouble is a simple “roll-and-move” board game for 2 to 4 players that features the Pop-O-Matic, a small, clear plastic dome housing a single die.

Parker Brothers’ Construct-o-Straws combined multi-coloured drinking straws with red plastic connectors to create an easy-to-use construction set for children of all ages.