Jenga named inventors’ pick for the top toy or game of the past 70 years

Jenga has come out on top in a survey of the global toy and game inventor community’s favourite launches of the past 70 years.

The study – involving over 100 members of the global toy inventor community – was carried out by the British Toy & Hobby Association and Mojo Nation to celebrate 70 years of London Toy Fair. As such, inventors had to choose products that were launched in the past seven decades that they wished they had invented.

Jenga came out on top, followed by Polly Pocket in second and Dobble in third.

“To receive such an honour from fellow designers would have been beyond my wildest dreams when I launched Jenga at the 1983 London Toy Fair,” said Jenga inventor Leslie Scott, adding: “In truth, to receive it 41 years later astonishes me still!”

Voters called Jenga “a masterpiece of sophisticated design” and “purity personified”, while one inventor said: “The idea that 54 simple blocks of wood can be configured in such a way that’s created drama and amusement for millions and millions of people… Well, it’s a 3D miracle!”

Second placed Polly Pocket was first launched by Bluebird Toys, founded by Sir Torquil Norman. His son, Genie Toys Founder Casey Norman, said: “It’s wonderful that so many have chosen Polly Pocket. But actually, it comes as no surprise to me. Anyone who has ever been involved on the design or invention side for Polly knows that the brand is a treasure trove for creativity and an amazing platform for innovation. My father will be so pleased to hear about the enthusiasm that still surrounds Polly Pocket.”

One voter said: “I love the way Polly Pocket took a classic dolls’ house play pattern and literally put it in a girl’s pocket – it represents the holy grail of toy invention.”

Elsewhere, third-placed Dobble was described by inventors as “A modern classic”.

Commenting on Dobble making the top three, Michaël Goncalves – SVP of Social Games & Head of Studio Zygomatic at Asmodee – said: “It’s such a unique, fun and magical game, played all over the world by families, children and friends. The success is huge – Dobble has sold over 37 million units since launch. As a publisher, to see Dobble become a toy or game that inventors would have liked to create is a real achievement and I’m very proud to be part of the list!”

The top 10 picks were as follows:

1. Jenga (1983)
2. Polly Pocket (1989)
3. Dobble (2009)
4. Twister (1966)
5. Tamagotchi (1996)
6. Kenner’s Star Wars Action Figures (1978)
7. Rubik’s Cube (1980)
8. UNO (1971)
9. Bop It (1996)
10. Codenames (2015)

“It was great that both classics and modern classics made the top 10 – and that the top three happened to be inventor items is a welcome reminder of the vital role this community plays in our industry,” said Mojo Nation’s Billy Langsworthy.

“What a fun way to celebrate 70 years of the London Toy Fair – here’s to the next 70!”

Director General of the BTHA, Roland Earl, added: “It is wonderful to take a view from such a valued group of creative people as to toys and games they wished they had invented. Creativity is the lifeblood of our amazing industry and great products with great design and enjoyment for all ages are what we are all about. As Billy says, here’s to the next 70!”

For those visiting Toy Fair 2024, a display of the top 10 choices will be located on the Toy Trust Lounge, stand UL 161.

–

To stay in the loop with the latest news, interviews and features from the world of toy and game design, sign up to our weekly newsletter here

More Recent News

One month left to send in your nominations for Mojo Nation 100: 2025 Edition

The deadline for nominations is Friday, November 29th.

Hug Me Pillows’ John Lewis pop-up enjoys “overwhelming” response

“Seeing how new customers and educators have embraced Hug Me Pillows as a tool for comfort and emotional well-being is truly heartwarming,” said Hug Me Pillows Creator Lucy Freeth.

Hasbro brings Harry Potter to Monopoly Deal

The game sees players try and collect three different sets of magical items to win.

Moose Toys, e.l.f. Cosmetics and Gamefam team up for XOX Kweenie Roblox campaign

“Our cross-game campaign will deliver massive scale and reach, delighting millions of players where they hang out,” said Ricardo Briceno, Chief Business Officer of Gamefam.

LEGO’s Innovation Campus designed to “foster creativity, inclusivity and the free flow of ideas”

“The space will serve as a global centre for product and design excellence,” said Julia Goldin, CPMO of the LEGO Group.

Asmodee USA embarks on exclusive distribution partnership with UP Games

“Teaming up with the creative minds at UP Games allows us to offer players light strategy games crafted by renowned designers, ensuring a fresh, fun experience for every type of gamer,” said Julien Sharp, Country Manager at Asmodee North America.