The National Toy Hall of Fame has announced its twelve finalists for induction in 2025, and among them is an unexpected contender: snow. This year’s nominees feature a mix of beloved board games, outdoor activities, and playful plush toys, creating an exciting competition for the coveted honor. Voting is now open to the public and a jury of experts, who will determine which toys will be celebrated in November at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.
In addition to snow, the finalists include popular games such as Battleship, Catan, Connect Four, Spirograph, and Trivial Pursuit. Other contenders are outdoor favorites like scooters, slime, and cornhole, as well as iconic toys such as the Star Wars lightsaber, Furby, and Tickle Me Elmo. Christopher Bensch, the Vice President for Collections and Chief Curator at the Hall of Fame, remarked on the playful nature of this year’s list, noting the interesting matchup between classic board games and nostalgic toys from the 1990s.
Voters have until September 24 to cast their ballots for their favorite toys. The three toys that receive the most votes will make up a “Player’s Choice” ballot, which will be combined with votes from a panel of 22 historians, educators, and toy experts. This collaborative approach reflects the diverse cultural significance these toys hold for different generations.
To be considered for induction, toys must not only be widely recognized but also have made a lasting impact on play and toy design. Since its inception in 1998, the Hall of Fame has honored 87 toys, with last year’s inductees including My Little Pony, Transformers action figures, and the Phase 10 card game.
The finalists for 2025 each have their unique stories and cultural footprints:
– **Battleship**: Introduced in 1967, this strategy game has sold over 100 million copies and was one of the first board games to be computerized in 1979.
– **Catan**: Originally published as Settlers of Catan in 1995, this game has sold more than 45 million copies in 40 languages, making it a global favorite.
– **Connect Four**: A classic game where players aim to connect four discs in a row. Interestingly, the game has been mathematically solved, ensuring a win for the first player with optimal moves.
– **Cornhole**: This outdoor game challenges players to throw bean bags through a hole in a slanted wooden board. Its simplicity has made it a staple at picnics and tailgating events.
– **Furby**: Launched in 1998, Furby became a sensation, selling 40 million units in its first three years. A new version was reintroduced in 2023, appealing to a new generation.
– **Scooter**: A timeless mode of low-tech transportation, scooters have evolved with new materials and technology while remaining popular among children and adults alike.
– **Slime**: Recognized for its role in encouraging creative and messy play, slime has been a commercial success since its introduction in 1976.
– **Snow**: A unique nominee, snow allows for endless creative opportunities, from snowball fights to snowman building, joining the ranks of traditional inductees like sticks and sand.
– **Spirograph**: This artistic toy has captivated users for 60 years, enabling the creation of intricate geometric designs through its unique gear system.
– **Tickle Me Elmo**: A must-have toy in 1996, Tickle Me Elmo elevated the concept of interactive stuffed animals with its infectious laughter.
– **Trivial Pursuit**: This trivia game, which debuted over 40 years ago, has sold more than 100 million copies, making it a staple in game nights around the world.
Bensch expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming voting process, emphasizing the personal connections many have with these toys. “At the end of the day, the playful debates just go to show how much personal and cultural relevance these toys have for us all,” he said.
As the public weighs in on their favorites, the excitement builds towards the final announcement in November, when the next class of inductees will be honored at the Hall of Fame.
