My Little Pony, Transformers Enter Toy Hall of Fame

The National Toy Hall of Fame has inducted three iconic toys from the 1980s: My Little Pony, Transformers action figures, and the Phase 10 card game. My Little Pony, which had been a finalist seven times before, is celebrated for encouraging fantasy and storytelling, combining traditional doll play with children's fascination with horses. Transformers, introduced by Hasbro in collaboration with Marvel Comics, have maintained popularity through various media adaptations. Phase 10, developed by Ken Johnson and now sold by Mattel, is a card game enjoyed globally, following the style of rummy. These toys were chosen from a field of 12 finalists, which included other popular items like Apples to Apples and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Christopher Bensch, vice president for collections at The Strong, emphasizes the toys' ability to inspire creative play and sustain popularity as key factors in their selection.