The 90s were a golden era for toys, with products that defined childhood for millions. Many of these beloved items remain nostalgic treasures today, and thanks to online marketplaces, you can still find them to recapture the magic. These toys from the 90s remain a nostalgic treasure trove, connecting us to simpler, playful times while still entertaining today. Here’s a list of the most iconic toys from the 90s, where to buy them, and tips for shopping.
Tamagotchi
About: These digital pets taught kids responsibility (and patience) as they fed, cleaned, and nurtured their pixelated friends.
Where to Buy: Amazon, eBay, and specialty toy stores often carry reissued or original versions.
Tip: Check packaging and descriptions for authenticity, as original 90s versions are highly collectible.
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Beanie Babies
About: Ty’s adorable stuffed animals became a massive collector’s craze, with some models now worth thousands.
Where to Buy: eBay and Etsy are excellent places to find vintage Beanie Babies.
Tip: Rare models like Princess Diana or Peanut the Royal Blue Elephant can be investment pieces, but research values before buying.
Furby
About: The talking, blinking creature was part toy, part companion, and part (slightly creepy) phenomenon.
Where to Buy: Look for Furbies on eBay or at thrift shops; new models are also available at major retailers.
Tip: Vintage Furbies in working condition fetch a premium, so test them before purchasing.
Hasbro
Polly Pocket
About: Tiny dolls and their compact playsets were a portable delight for kids.
Where to Buy: Modern versions are available at Target and Walmart, while vintage sets can be found on eBay.
Tip: Seek out classic 90s designs for maximum nostalgia, but expect higher prices for complete sets.
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Game Boy Color
About: Nintendo’s handheld gaming system brought vibrant color to portable gaming with hits like Pokémon Red and Tetris.
Where to Buy: Check eBay, Retro gaming stores, and marketplaces like Mercari.
Tip: Look for listings that include original packaging and games for added value.
Pogs and Slammers
About: The collectible cardboard discs became a playground obsession, with players competing to win stacks of them.
Where to Buy: eBay and Etsy are great places for vintage Pogs.
Tip: Seek out themed sets featuring licensed characters like Marvel or Looney Tunes for collector appeal.
Power Rangers Action Figures
About: Inspired by the hit TV show, these figures let kids recreate epic battles against Rita Repulsa.
Where to Buy: Amazon and Walmart carry new lines, while vintage figures are on eBay.
Tip: Mint-condition action figures in original packaging are the most valuable.
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Skip-It
About: A simple yet addictive outdoor toy that tracked spins on a counter as kids skipped their way to fun.
Where to Buy: Look for vintage Skip-Its on eBay or newer versions in toy stores.
Tip: Ensure the counter mechanism works if buying vintage.
Bop It
About: This interactive game tested reflexes with commands to twist, pull, and bop the device.
Where to Buy: Updated versions are at Target and Amazon, while vintage models can be found on eBay.
Tip: The older models often have a nostalgic charm but may lack the durability of newer designs.
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Tickle Me Elmo
About: The plush Sesame Street character with infectious laughter caused a shopping frenzy in the 90s.
Where to Buy: Find newer versions at major retailers and vintage ones on eBay.
Tip: Look for original 1996 releases for ultimate nostalgia.
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Super Soakers
About: These water guns turned summer battles into legendary events with their high-capacity tanks.
Where to Buy: Modern models are sold at Walmart and Amazon, while vintage ones can be found on eBay.
Tip: If collecting, check for cracks or leaks in vintage models.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Figures
About: Based on the hit animated series, these action figures were a must-have for TMNT fans.
Where to Buy: Retro collections are available at specialty stores and eBay.
Tip: Seek out the original four turtles and accessories for a complete set.
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Easy-Bake Oven
About: The iconic oven introduced kids to baking with a light bulb-powered appliance.
Where to Buy: Modern versions are available at Walmart, while vintage models appear on eBay.
Tip: For safety, stick to modern versions if planning to use it, but vintage ones make excellent display pieces.
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Pokémon Cards
About: These trading cards became a cultural phenomenon, with some rare cards now worth thousands.
Where to Buy: Pokémon cards are widely available at retailers like Target, but vintage cards are best found on eBay.
Tip: Rare holographic cards like Charizard are highly sought after, so verify authenticity.
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Troll Dolls
About: With their wild hair and cheerful faces, Troll Dolls became an enduring symbol of 90s kitsch.
Where to Buy: Look for vintage Trolls on Etsy or eBay, or find modern versions at toy stores.
Tip: Limited editions or themed Trolls (like holiday versions) are highly collectible.
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Goosebumps Books and Merchandise
About: R.L. Stine’s horror book series inspired toys, games, and collectibles.
Where to Buy: Books and toys are available on eBay, Amazon, and thrift stores.
Tip: First editions of the books are particularly valuable.
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Cabbage Patch Kids
About: Though they originated in the 80s, Cabbage Patch Kids remained a staple throughout the 90s.
Where to Buy: Modern dolls are widely available, but vintage ones can be found on eBay.
Tip: Dolls with unique birth certificates or original outfits are more valuable.
Elise Amendola | Credit: AP
Mighty Max Playsets
About: The male counterpart to Polly Pocket, these tiny playsets had an adventurous theme.
Where to Buy: Vintage sets can be found on eBay or at retro toy shops.
Tip: Complete sets with figurines fetch higher prices among collectors.
Yak Bak
About: A portable voice recorder that allowed kids to record and play back silly messages.
Where to Buy: Vintage Yak Baks are rare but occasionally appear on eBay.
Tip: Test functionality if possible before purchasing.
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NERF Guns
About: Foam-dart shooters became an instant hit with kids and remain popular today.
Where to Buy: New NERF guns are at most major retailers, while vintage models are on eBay.
Tip: Look for themed NERF sets from the 90s for a nostalgic twist.
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