Classics that have entertained generations of youngsters are tipped to be among this year’s biggest festive hits, including a £150 Donkey Kong Lego arcade set and Woody’s steed Bullseye from Toy Story
Old-school favourites Lego, Hot Wheels and Toy Story are still top of kids’ Christmas lists despite an explosion of hi-tech toys. Classics that have entertained generations of youngsters are tipped to be among this year’s biggest festive hits.
Argos has unveiled its annual list of the 20 toys it expects to dominate letters to Santa this Christmas. And many will be nostalgic for mums and dads.
Lego, which has been keeping youngsters busy for decades, makes the list twice, including a £150 Donkey Kong arcade set inspired by the classic 1980s video game. Hot Wheels is also set to race off shelves, with a £130 T-Rex garage capable of storing and launching up to 50 of the toy cars.
And Woody’s steed Bullseye is back more than 30 years after the first Toy Story film, with a £50 jumbo cuddly version released for Toy Story 5. Even traditional wooden toys like train sets and play kitchens are holding their own against hi-tech gadgets.
Retro music is making a comeback too, with a £20 miniature record player that actually spins and plays music from 44 collectible mini vinyl records.
Argos toy chief Chantal Pearce said parents enjoy introducing youngsters to the toys and characters they grew up with. She said: “When a toy balances that retro charm with modern features, it quickly becomes a favourite across the household.”
But there are some modern options too, including a fart blaster firing scented pong rings six feet through the air and a karaoke machine with built-in stage lights.
Other new favourites include KPop Demon Hunters singing dolls and an interactive dragon with more than 60 reactions.
THE TOP 20
Mini Brands Really Works Vinyl Playset – £20
Lego Donkey Kong Arcade Building Set – £150
Hot Wheels City Ultimate T-Rex Garage – £130
Chad Valley Alfie And Jo Wooden Train Set – £15
Chad Valley Wooden Classic Kitchen – £30
Tonies Lite – £60
Little Live Pets My Magical Dragon Skye – £55
Primal Hatch Megalodon Hatching Egg Shark Toy – £55
VTech Kidi 12-In-1 Guitar Superstar – £50
Projector Karaoke Machine – £90
Lego Pokémon SMART Play – £30
Armosaurs Armor-Up Dinosaur T-Rex – £45
Giftie Badge Maker – £35
Jupiter Workshops Four Storey Wooden Doll House – £150
Flutter Monster Soft Toy – £20
Toy Story 5 Bullseye Jumbo Plush – £50
KPop Demon Hunters Golden Singing Dolls – £35 each
PAW Patrol Megasaurus Dino Vehicle – £60
Ready Pedal Peppa – £30
Minions & Monsters Fart Blaster Pro – £30