Best 90s Throwback Toys to Gift This Holiday Season
- Dec 16, 2025
- 3 min read
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Craving a shot of 90s nostalgia? We rounded up the best throwback toys that still deliver instant smiles, screen-free fun, and retro vibes. From light-up art boards to pocket-size collectibles, these picks make great gifts or a just-because treat. Here are the best products worth a click.
⭐ Top Pick: Lite-Brite Classic Light Board
Bring back the glow of after-school creativity with this classic light board. Arrange simple, luminous designs for a satisfying, retro art moment.
Pros
Iconic light-up art experience that feels instantly nostalgic
Reusable board invites fresh patterns again and again
Cons
Designs show best in dimmer lighting
Focuses on light-dot imagery rather than detailed drawing
Mini Troll Dolls, Assorted Colors (1.2-Inch)
Tiny troll figures with bright, assorted hair colors that scream 90s charm. At 1.2 inches, they’re made for displays, favors, and crafty touches.
Pros
Mini size suits cake toppers, crafts, and goodie bags
Assorted colors keep every set feeling different
Cons
Very small pieces are easy to misplace
Hair and colors are assorted, not customizable
Color-In Plush Doll with 5 Washable Markers
A cuddly plush you can color, wash, and redesign using the included five washable markers. Creativity without commitment—start new whenever you like.
Pros
Washable surface supports repeat doodles and do-overs
Comes with five markers to begin creating immediately
Cons
Colors are temporary by design and rinse out
Fabric surface favors bold shapes over fine detail
90s Flashback Pack
A ready-made bundle of 90s throwbacks for instant retro fun. Ideal for themed gifts, parties, or a quick hit of childhood memories.
Pros
All-in-one 90s assortment with no extra hunting
Variety adds surprise and playful discovery
Cons
Contents may not match every specific preference
Not centered on a single brand or character
Original Slinky Spring Toy (2.75-Inch)
The timeless walking spring toy in a portable 2.75-inch form. Simple, tactile motion play that never gets old.
Pros
Satisfying fidget and kinetic fun in seconds
Compact size fits easily in a pocket or desk drawer
Cons
Smaller diameter limits big stair-trick moments
Best on short, even steps due to size
Classic Viewfinder Viewer
Click through scenes with a classic hand-held viewer for a quick screen-free escape. Tactile, simple, and delightfully analog.
Pros
Familiar click-and-view experience people recognize
Great for short, self-contained viewing sessions
Cons
Needs compatible reels for more images
Single-user at a time experience
View-Master Classic with Discovery Kids Reels
A View-Master set paired with Discovery Kids reels so you can start exploring right away. Picture-based learning meets vintage charm.
Pros
Includes reels out of the box for instant viewing
Educational themes add variety to the classic format
Cons
Additional reels required to expand the library
Fixed-frame images—no audio or interactivity
Magic 8 Ball
The iconic fortune sphere that answers yes/no questions with a shake. Perfect for quick decisions, jokes, and party laughs.
Pros
Instant, readable responses keep play moving
Crowd-pleasing novelty everyone recognizes
Cons
Responses are for fun only—not serious guidance
Limited to yes/no style prompts
Koosh Original Ball
The original Koosh ball with its unmistakable, tossable feel. Easy to catch and satisfying for casual play or desk fidgeting.
Pros
Signature strand texture promotes easy grip and catch
Great for gentle, low-stress tossing
Cons
Geared toward light play—not rough games
Not designed for long-distance throwing
Magnetic Face Drawing Toy
Move magnetic material to add hair, brows, and beards to a character face. Quick, contained creativity without the mess.
Pros
Magnetic medium keeps everything neat and contained
Face template helps beginners start instantly
Cons
Focused on facial designs rather than full scenes
Requires a steady hand for precise lines
Nostalgia hits different when you can hold it in your hands. Whether you’re gifting, party-planning, or simply reliving your own childhood, these 90s-inspired picks keep the fun easy and memorable. Click through the links to explore each item and find your favorites. Have a friend who loves a good throwback? Share this roundup and spread the retro joy.
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