Mattel

“UNO can be such an emotional game, I thought it would be fun to create cards that could speak for themselves and elicit even more of a response from the players than they already are,” said Abney.

With lots of buzz around the firm’s recent real-time co-op game, Last Defense, we caught up with Deirdre to find out more about the power of collaboration, the best way to translate brands into play experiences and the game that set her on the path into this industry.

“From the moment we first saw the world of Gus: The Itsy Bitsy Knight, we were drawn to its compelling story,” said Nick Karamanos, SVP of Entertainment Partnerships, Mattel.

“This year’s DreamToys Top 12 includes a range of products from classic brands such as Monopoly and Barbie, to popular licenses and innovative new toys to suit all price points,” said Gary Grant, chair of the DreamToys selection committee.

The two mark the first launches from Mattel’s new Skullector range of dolls based on celebrities and classic horror movie characters.

“The intent of this museum is to take visitors back to their unique childhood experiences, and give them the opportunity to relive their youth, even if just for a few moments,” said Chuck Scothon, SVP and Global Head of Infant and Preschool, Mattel.

The platform will sell a range of curated items that offer a peek inside Mattel’s creative process, as well as serving as a hub for collaborations with artists, designers, musicians and creators.

Asked to give ten top tips to new toy-and-game inventors, Richard C. Levy and Ronald O. Weingartner went one better… Here, they offer not only their tips but also invaluable advice that shapes their thinking.

“This year’s top toys list offers a huge variety of new products, ranging from toys inspired by the biggest TV and gaming franchises to bizarre – but crucially, fun – pooping animals,” said Argos’ Juliet Ward.

“I believe that finding ways to build brands that offer quality play experiences for families and kids today is more important than ever and I am excited to be part of that,” said Kilpin.