For those who grew up in the 80s and 90s, there was something magical about the toy aisles. It was an era of action figures, dolls, video game consoles, and plastic treasures that defined childhoods around the world. Fast forward to today, and a surprising number of those iconic toys are making a comeback—nostalgia-fueled, revamped, and ready for a new generation of fans. Whether you’re a millennial revisiting your childhood or a collector, here’s a look at the toys that are riding the wave of retro resurgence.
1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Few franchises scream 80s like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael first burst onto the scene in the late 1980s, and by the 90s, they were everywhere—from action figures to lunchboxes to arcade games. The Turtles have made multiple comebacks over the years, but in recent times, retro-inspired toys are hitting shelves with a vengeance.
Brands like NECA and Super7 are releasing highly detailed, collector-focused figures modeled after the original 80s toy line. At the same time, modern animated series are introducing the pizza-loving heroes to a new audience. Whether you’re into the vintage style or more modern iterations, the Ninja Turtles are back in a big way.
2. Polly Pocket
For many 90s kids, Polly Pocket was a portable dream world. These tiny doll sets, packed into colorful clamshell cases, became an instant hit. By the early 2000s, however, Polly Pocket had evolved into a larger, more “Barbie-like” doll, losing some of its original charm. But in recent years, Mattel has returned Polly to her roots, reintroducing the miniature compacts that made her a 90s icon.
The new sets still carry the charm of the originals but are updated for safety and durability. Parents who grew up with Polly can now share the small-scale adventures with their kids, making it a perfect example of how nostalgia can bridge generations.
3. Transformers
More than meets the eye, indeed! Transformers hit toy stores in 1984 and revolutionized the action figure world with their unique blend of robots and vehicles. With every new series, the Autobots and Decepticons have adapted to the times, but there’s been a distinct shift back to the designs and aesthetics of the original toys.
Hasbro has released several lines, like Transformers: War for Cybertron, which directly appeals to fans of the classic figures with updated articulation and detailed sculpting. The combination of new media, including the hit Netflix series, and the ongoing appeal of transforming robots ensures that Transformers continue to thrive in today’s toy market.
4. My Little Pony
My Little Pony has undergone a few major revamps since its 80s origins, but it was the 2010 relaunch with My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic that redefined the brand for a modern audience. However, alongside the modern animation style and stories, the original 80s ponies are also making a strong comeback.
Hasbro has launched a series of retro-themed ponies, complete with their classic brushable manes and pastel-colored bodies. Collectors can now find the vintage-style ponies alongside the more modern takes, giving fans of all ages something to enjoy.
5. Masters of the Universe (He-Man)
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe dominated the toy scene in the 80s, with its muscle-bound heroes and villains battling for control of Castle Grayskull. Though the original line ended in the late 80s, He-Man has remained a staple in pop culture, and recent years have seen a full-blown revival.
In 2021, Netflix launched Masters of the Universe: Revelation, a continuation of the original animated series, bringing He-Man back into the spotlight. Accompanying the show, Mattel has released new Masters of the Universe figures that are faithful to the original 80s designs, albeit with modern articulation and detail. For fans, it’s a return to the sword-and-sorcery glory days of Eternia.
6. Tamagotchi
In the late 90s, Tamagotchi took the world by storm, allowing kids to care for virtual pets in pocket-sized devices. The concept was simple but addictive, as players nurtured their digital creatures, ensuring they were fed, cleaned, and happy. Today, Tamagotchi has made a significant return, with Bandai re-releasing classic models and introducing modern versions with updated features like color screens and new ways to interact with your pet.
Nostalgia aside, Tamagotchi now appeals to a generation that’s obsessed with simulation games and digital companions. The new versions combine the charm of the original toys with the tech advancements of today.
7. G.I. Joe
As one of the most iconic toy lines of the 80s, G.I. Joe became a household name thanks to its action-packed figures and corresponding animated series. The “Real American Hero” line was a staple in toy collections across the country. Now, G.I. Joe is back, with Hasbro releasing updated versions of both the 3.75-inch figures and the larger, more detailed G.I. Joe Classified Series.
Collectors and fans of military-style action figures are embracing the new lines, which maintain the essence of the originals while offering more poseability and detail for modern display purposes.
8. Furby
In the late 90s, Furby became a viral sensation before the term “viral” was even common. These fuzzy, interactive creatures were known for “learning” how to speak and responding to their owners. After several iterations over the years, Furby has recently returned, bringing back the quirky personality and interactive features that made it a must-have toy.
With new technological advances, today’s Furbies are smarter and more customizable than ever, appealing to both kids and adults who fondly remember the original.
The Power of Nostalgia
Nostalgia plays a huge role in the resurgence of these beloved toys. For many adults, the toys of the 80s and 90s were not just playthings—they were cultural touchstones that shaped imaginations and created lasting memories. The modern revivals of these toys tap into that sentiment, offering a chance to reconnect with the past while introducing these icons to a new generation.
Whether it’s revisiting the world of He-Man or bonding over Polly Pocket with your kids, the comeback of these toys proves that the magic of the 80s and 90s is far from over. For collectors and newcomers alike, these retro revivals are a reminder that some things never go out of style—they just keep transforming, evolving, and reminding us of the joy of play.
Which of these toys did you have as a kid, and which ones are you excited to see making a comeback?
