It was announced yesterday that Uno, the Magic 8 Ball and pinball would be inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in Rochester, New York. These games were chosen from 12 finalists that included American Girl Dolls, chalk, Chutes and Ladders, the Fisher-Price Corn Popper, Masters of the Universe, sled, tic-tac-toe, Tickle Me Elmo, and the Tudor Electric Football. Now, going over this list, I can’t believe that the Fisher-Price Corn Popper isn’t already in there, although the extreme ‘parental annoyance factor’ may have kept it out so far! I’m also surprised by chalk but I guess that’s not necessarily a toy as much as it’s a craft or art supply. I’d really like to see the criteria for what’s being entered. I have a few things I’d be happy to nominate as well!!
Apparently, the Magic 8 Ball was a finalist seven times before the judges finally decided ‘signs point to yes’, and pinball in the midst of a revival, which is what prompted its inclusion!
Check out the Toy Hall of Fame website here and see what else is already included!