It's a lucky time to be a kid: Just when we think the toys couldn't get any more sophisticated, innovative, imaginative and all-around fun, more and more come out that set the bar ever higher.
Every year, experts from the get a sneak at the slate of. They get called into our Labs for testing with adults and kids — both of whom weigh in on the year-end — the offerings have been impressive. These are the toys our staff says are the best new toys of the year.
Our Top Picks for the Best New Toys of 2023:
- , $52 at Amazon
- , $9 at Walmart
- , $64 at Amazon
- , $10 at Amazon
- , $25 at Amazon
What's big for this year? , there are and that give kids hands-on experience with topics that fascinate kids, from astronomy to magic. "Kidulting" is also huge and a lot of what will be on shelves this year are meant for parents and kids to enjoy together (or for parents to enjoy by themselves after the kids have gone to bed). Similarly, nostalgia is at an all-time high, so look for re-launches, re-vamps and new twists on toys from the past. Older kids are still into everything DIY, and the tiny fixation of everything into collectible mini forms continues unabated.
A lot of the favorites have come out already, so if you're looking for a gift for kids, check out these new offerings.
Can't see the products? Click here for the best viewing experience!
1
Buzzy New Trading-Card Game
Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game
$79.25
Disney fans and collectible trading-card enthusiasts alike will love Ravensburger's new strategy trading-card game, featuring all their favorite Disney characters. In , you play as an "Illumineer" that can use various items (like dragon fire), actions ("one jump ahead") or characters (Elsa, Mickey, Stitch, Robin Hood and many others) to go on quests and acquire Lore — and stop their opponents from doing so.
Players will need a 60-card starter card deck to get going, and then they can get booster packs to supplement their collection. Once they see all the Disney-inspired artwork on the cards, they're going to want that collection to be as vast as possible. Ages 8+
RELATED:
2
For Nintendo Fans
Super Mario Fliprus Snow Adventure Set
amazon.com
Kids who saw The Super Mario Bros. Movie over and over again this spring will jump at the chance to bring their favorite game into the real world. Part of line, this set lets kids use Lego bricks to build out an ice level, complete with a Fliprus that shoots ice balls, a snowman whose head can be knocked onto a Koopa Troopa and a baby penguin who needs some fruit.
This works best for those who already have a Lego Super Mario Adventures Starter Course (and they have them for , or ), which comes with a figure with screens in its eyes and belly that can react to the levels in real-time. The figures also connect to the Lego app, which will keep track of how many coins were collected. Ages 7+
3
Programmable Pet
Dog-E by MINTiD
amazon.com
Connect this robot dog to its app and discover its unique look and personality — everyone’s Dog-E is a little different via eyes, tongue, tail, bark, character traits and more. Other members of the family can use the app to activate their own dog using the same white robot. That way, siblings and family members have more “dogs” to interact with, one at a time.
Dog-E communicates messages with lights on its tail, such as a heart for happiness, so watch those to train Dog-E and teach it tricks. Use the app to feed your new pet treats and play games together. Ages 6+
22
They Can Never Have Enough PAW Patrol
PAW Patrol Aqua Pups Whale Patroller
amazon.com
$44.00
Is there any mode of transportation the PAW Patrol hasn't mastered? Now, they can head into the bay with this Whale Patroller. It comes with a Chase figure and a rescue vehicle, which can be launched from the patroller with the push of a handle. And if they want even more Aqua Pups, you can find seaworthy versions of , , , and , who each come with an undersea friend. And if that's still not enough pup action from them, this year also sees new construction-themed Rubble & Crew figures, including , , , and . Ages 3+