A nostalgic toy that was popular in my childhood
Nostalgic toys we played with as kids—there are a few that come to your mind too, right?
From those that are still popular and on the market to ones you hardly see anymore, there are all kinds of toys.
Some might not come to mind right away, but the moment you see them, you’ll think, “This! I used to play with this all the time!!” and be instantly transported back to childhood.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of nostalgic toys across different eras.
See if your favorite toy makes an appearance.
- A roundup of nostalgic toys for people born in the ’90s [Trends]
- A roundup of nostalgic toys for people born in the 2000s [Trends]
- Nostalgic games that were popular when we were kids
- [Let’s Make and Play!] Handmade Toy Ideas You Can Create Yourself
- [List] A roundup of games and recreational activities kids love
- It's fun to spin! A collection of DIY toy ideas
- DIY ideas for a den-den daiko (Japanese pellet drum). Let’s make and play with this nostalgic toy!
- [Make with Kids] Handmade Outdoor Play Toy Special
- [For Kids] Today's Recommended Recreation Idea Collection
- Indoor Games for Small Groups: Exciting Recreational Activities
- [For Kids] Today’s Handmade Craft Ideas
- [For Elementary School Kids] Handmade Toy Craft Ideas
- [DIY] A Collection of Handmade Moving Toy Craft Ideas
Nostalgic Toys That Were Popular in Our Childhood (21–30)
Mushiking
The very first Mushi King was “Mushiking: The King of Beetles.” Before we knew it, everyone just called it “Mushiking.” The second generation was “Mushiking Battle: Gatch of Fusion!!,” and the third was “Shin Mushiking: The King of Beetles,” so the battles of Mushi Battlers will never truly end! Even people who didn’t play the card game got hyped through the anime and manga, so long before the term “media mix” was commonly used, “Mushiking” was already spreading across generations in many forms.
If you still have cards like the Giraffa or the Alkides, treasure them as lifelong keepsakes!
Beyblade
Do you remember the nostalgic toy, Beyblade? It’s a modern take on the spinning top, with endless customization and plenty of strategy! Kids love it, and adults get hooked too.
Just choosing the parts opens up infinite possibilities.
The thrill of dynamic battles and pushing your brain to the limit is irresistible! It’s not just a toy—it has a charm that appeals to a wide range of ages.
I’m sure it’ll strike a chord with you, too.
So, how about recapturing that childhood spirit and spinning up some classic Beyblade fun again?
Nostalgic toys that were popular when we were kids (31–40)
Gabuccho Fishing Game
When you turn it on, a board modeled after a fishing pond rotates, and if you put the magnet at the end of the line hanging from the fishing rod into a fish’s mouth, it snaps on with a chomp, letting you experience “fishing.” It’s a simple toy, but since the fish’s mouths open and close in time with the rotation, it’s not so easy to catch them—you end up getting competitive and playing forever! It’s a cute toy with a retro vibe.
Nintendo DS
A handheld game console that sold explosively not only in Japan but also across the United States and Asia.
It’s astonishing that the series sold a total of 150 million units.
Perhaps it was the Nintendo DS that helped further boost the popularity of Pokémon and Mario.
Thanks to its communication features and the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, this system laid the groundwork for the now-common idea of games that everyone can enjoy together.
The communication features in titles like Monster Hunter and Yo-kai Watch were especially exciting!
My Little Pony
My Little Pony is the franchise that won the hearts of girls with its colorful and adorable characters.
Created by Hasbro Studios in the United States in 1981, it features ponies, unicorns, pegasi, and more.
It was adapted into an animated series in the U.S.
starting in 1982, and by 2021 the fifth generation had aired, making it a long-loved property.
In Japan, it became popular around 2013 when merchandise sales were launched in tandem with the TV anime broadcast.
AIBO
When it comes to toys that blend technology with warmth—nostalgic yet new—AIBO comes to mind.
The way it kicks a ball with its feet and responds when you call to it feels just like a real pet! It even has growth features, so the more you use it, the more attached you become.
While many toys are modeled after wild animals, AIBO is something special.
It remains one of those memorable toys that still has a place in many people’s hearts.
Do you have any fun memories with AIBO?
kick scooter
Speaking of kick scooters, it brings back memories of going outside to play with everyone.
They’re so easy to operate, yet gliding along smoothly was so fun that I got totally absorbed.
They’re still popular as something both kids and adults can enjoy.
There are all sorts of sizes and designs, so you’re likely to find one that fits you now.
While feeling a sense of nostalgia, you might also discover new ways to enjoy them.
If you use them with safety in mind, your everyday getting around might become a bit more fun.
How about reminiscing about the past while finding a way to play that suits who you are today?