
Bert ‘N Ernie Radio from Concept 2000 (1976)
Released in 1976 by Concept 2000, the Bert ‘N Ernie radio let kids control their soundscape with a radio shaped like two of Sesame Street’s most beloved characters.
Kar-Zoom from Whitman (1964)
Released in 1964, Kar-Zoom from Whitman was a dexterity game that challenged players to score points by “racing their car” through a series of underpasses.
Magic Erasable Pictures from Transogram (1950s)
In the 1950s, Transogram released a series of colouring books that provided a creative outlet without paper waste.
Beyond the Mainstream: Alternatives to Your Favorite Board Games
Nicolas Ricketts recommends lesser-known board games based on popular counterparts.
Road Devils from Remco (1972)
Released in 1972, Remco’s Road Devils were a line of futuristic-looking stunt-driving race cars equipped with high-speed “gyro-motors.”
Knock Out from Milton Bradley (1978)
Released in 1978, Milton Bradley’s Knock Out challenged players to outwit and outflank their opponent by placing “stoppers” in a hexagonal grid.
Suckerman from Mattel (1978)
Released by Mattel in 1978, Suckerman was a pliable vinyl toy that stuck to surfaces, providing opportunities for play and surprises around the house.
Don’t Spill the Beans from Schaper (1967)
Published by Schaper in 1967, Don’t Spill the Beans was a family-friendly game that challenged players not to “spill the beans” from an unsteady bean pot.
Mr. Rembrandt from Ideal (1970)
Artistry met robotics in Mr. Rembrandt from Ideal. Released in 1970, the battery-operated toy inspired by the Dutch Golden Age painter drew geometric patterns on paper.
Instant TV from Remco (1967)
In 1967, Remco took a page from Wham-O’s over-the-top playbook and released Instant TV, a wacky toy that was more marketing sizzle than steak.
Godzilla Game from Mattel (1978)
Published by Mattel in 1978, the Godzilla Game infused playtime with chance and suspense as players anxiously awaited Godzilla’s attack.