My Little Pony has finally won the coveted spot in the National Toy Hall of Fame, joining iconic toys like Transformers and Phase 10. The pastel-colored ponies were chosen from a pool of 12 finalists, which also included popular party games, remote-controlled vehicles, and classic board games.
The selection is a testament to the enduring appeal of My Little Pony, which has been entertaining children for decades with its colorful characters and fantasy play. “These toys showcase the wide range of how people play,” said Christopher Bensch, vice president for collections and chief curator at the Strong Museum of Play.
Phase 10, introduced in 1982, is one of the best-selling card games in the world, with over 20 languages and 2 million decks sold annually. The game’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its simple yet challenging gameplay, making it a favorite among multigenerational families.
Transformers, which debuted in the 1980s, has become a cultural phenomenon with live-action films and social media debates over must-have figures. The toys’ ability to feed kids’ imaginations and fantasy play is a key factor in their popularity.
The National Toy Hall of Fame’s curator, Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, noted that My Little Pony combines traditional doll play with children’s fascination with horses, making it a collectible toy that promotes creative play. The induction ceremony took place at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, where the Hall of Fame is housed.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/toy-hall-fame-transformers-my-little-pony-e8dcad7e652f89e02badaa55f763f6f1