Transformers
1980-Present - Seed 4
The boys' version of the Cabbage Patch Kids, Transformers set the toy world on its ear in 1984. Anyone and everyone just had to have these "robots in disguise." They could transform into everyday objects, usually vehicles or weapons, and a cartoon series and, eventually, films followed, turning a whole new generation on to these toys.
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LEGO
1950-1980 - Seed 1
Yeah, we cheated. LEGO first came out of Denmark in 1949, but this heavyweight found its stride post-1950. What started as a simple building block toy has taken off to become a multi million dollar business. Today, kids can build giant Death Stars and Harry Potter castles with Lego kits. We still like the old-school pieces that inspired imagination and creation. Though we do like changing the hairpieces on today's figures. Genius.