12 Hot Toys This Christmas [2009]

What does a silver-tongued soft toy, a clone mask, a device with which to reel in monsters and a flushing potty have in common? Well, they have all been selected as ‘top toys’ for Christmas 2008 by the British Toy Retailers Association.

This is the 42^nd year since the TRA started to publish their annual ‘Dream Toys’ list. This years’ list was announced at a media preview on 15 October.

The list, like those of previous years, tells us a great deal about trends in society and in the toy industry. It is particularly striking to note the influence of the media on toymakers with about half of the toys on the list related to either a film or a television program.

The toys on the list were selected from six categories. They are: Boys, Girls, Techzone, Creative, Games and Pre-School.

And now, without further ado, here is the list of toys that are predicted to get British and American cash registers ringing this December:

1. BABY Born with Magic Potty, Zapf Creation

An interesting variation on the ‘crying baby doll’ theme since she comes fully supplied with her own flushing potty. Guaranteed to cause mild embarrassment to parents when used in public!

2. Bakugan Starter Pack, Spinmaster

When is a marble not merely a marble? I think the Bakugan (a popular Japanese cartoon) marbles might qualify for the title of ‘super marbles’ since it transforms into an action figure when you press the right buttons!

3. Ben 10 Deluxe Omnitrix, Bandai

Based on the popular cartoon, Ben 10, this is much more than a mere wristwatch. It is a working ‘Omnitrix‘ that can be used, with a bit of added imagination, to defeat some really nasty aliens.

4. Catcha Beast, Bandai

Want to take your fishing skills to a totally new level? This nifty little device enables you to reel in a variety of electronic monsters.

5. Cupcake Maker, Character Options

Does what it says on the tin. Recipes and equipment included.

6. Elmo Live, Mattel

Sesame Street’s Elmo like you have never seen him before. If you’ve ever wanted an all-speaking, all-singing and all dancing version of the little critter this is for you!

7. FurReal Biscuit, My Lovin’ Pup, Hasbro

 

This adorable puppy obeys six commands and presumably does not leave little surprises on the carpets at night.

8. High School Musical 3 Musical Dance Mat, Vivid Imaginations

 

Dance to some of the tunes from the highly successful ‘High School Musical’ series.

9. In The Night Garden Upsy Daisy and Her Chase and Play Bed, Hasbro

Upsy Daisy is a character in the wildly popular BBC series ‘In the Night Garden‘ and this soft toy version of her is sure to get little hearts racing.

10. My Life, Flair Leisure Products

It’s seemingly never too early to start working on your social networking skills. This handheld device allows kids to create virtual digital images of themselves. This can be changed in line with current preferences.

11. Rescue Pals Swim To Me Puppy, MGA Entertainment Ltd

Another puppy, only this one’s ‘party trick’ is that it is a particularly good swimmer.

12. Star Wars Clone Trooper Voice Changer, Hasbro

Ever wanted to be a clone? This ‘Stars Wars‘ clone helmet allows you to an excellent impression!