There are very few fictional characters that can truly be described as cultural icons. Harry Potter is certainly one of them! The boy-wizard, created by JK Rowling, can be credited with single-handedly transforming the reading habits of millions of kids around the world. Those who did not actually get round to reading about his exploits were (are!) able to follow his battle against the dark forces of ‘Him who must not be named’ on the silver screen. They can also ‘be him’ by playing one of the many Harry Potter games that have been released over the past decade. It is therefore no surprise that Harry is also casting his spell over the playing habits of kids the world over. Potter themed toys can be found in just about every toy store in the world and range from shameless commercial tie-ins to fantastic ‘toy of the year’ candidates. Best among these are:
1) Harry Potter: Magic Powers Harry Deluxe Figure

It is perhaps best the start with the boy himself! This 12 inch action figure enables kids to ‘take Harry home’ to do some pretty cool things. He can ‘levitate’ a ball, make bubbles in a cauldron when preparing for the next spell and even turn the pages of a ’spell book’.
2) LEGO Hogwarts Express
There are so many excellent Harry Potter themes LEGO products out there that it is extremely difficult to choose a favorite. The LEGO Hogwarts Express should be near the top of any list however. It includes the engine, a passenger car, Hogsmede station and much, much more. The perfect answer for those who are struggling to decide between reading their Potter books or playing with their LEGO sets!
3) Harry Potter Costume Kit

Why only read about Harry when you can actually be him! The Harry Potter Costume Kit allows you to step into the boy-wizards’ robe and wave his wand. The kit includes a robe, glasses and a wand. Dressing up does not come any better than this!
4) Harry Potter UNO

A classic card game, combined with a series of books well on their way to become classics of children’s literature: what more can you ask for? This version of UNO follows the same rules as the original game with players locked in a mortal struggle to get rid of their cards as quickly as possible. The only twist is that it contains characters, graphics and descriptions from the Potter universe. Enough to keep you ‘entranced’ for hours!
5) Scene It? Harry Potter (Second Edition)

How well do you know your ‘Potterology‘? There is only one way to find out. Sit down for a game of ‘Scene It – Harry Potter’. It makes use of DVD clips and question cards to test your knowledge of the magical world of Potter to the limits. Throw the oversized dice, watch the clips, stun your friends with the answers and earn the right to be crowned ‘Wizard in Chief’ in your own right!
