BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details.
Plenty to choose from
If your little one has already handed you their mile-long wish list or circled every item in the Christmas catalog, you’re not alone. While kids aren’t shy about telling you what they want, the hard part is remembering every toy commercial or sorting through hundreds of items on a list. Squishmallows, Legos and Barbie dolls are just a few of the year’s hottest toys. So, if you have a little one on your shopping list this year, here are over 100 trendy toys to shop for during the 2022 holiday season.
In this article: Squishmallows Official 8-Inch Plush Mystery Box, Magna-Tiles Arctic Animals 25-Piece Set and Magic Mixies Magical Misting Crystal Ball
For outdoor play
What started off as a small grassroots activity has exploded into a wildly popular outdoor game. The premise is simple: you set up two cans apart from each other and take turns trying to land a disc within the cans.
Sold by Amazon
This all-ages backyard game is a simple activity but a classic one, as players take turns trying to land bolas on a rung. The setup is simple and the included carrying case makes it easy to store and transport.
Sold by Amazon
This simple outdoor Scandinavian game is growing in popularity in North America. It blends ring toss with lawn bowling, and competing one-on-one or in teams, players vie to knock down numbered pins with a wooden cylinder.
Sold by Amazon
This game is found frequently at backyard parties, tailgating events and outdoor picnics, in part because it’s so simple and engaging. All that’s required is tossing a beanbag into the open hole on the board, but be aware — it’s harder than it looks.
Sold by Amazon
GoSports Giant Wooden Toppling Tower
While the smaller tabletop version of this game is known by another name, this large, outdoor edition of the toppling tower allows for bigger stakes and heightened drama.
Sold by Amazon
This comprehensive outdoor pong set allows for a lot of different versions of the ball-throwing game to be played. Cups can be set up on the ground or a table, and while there are several color options available, the glow-in-the-dark version provides nighttime fun.
Sold by Amazon
For those seeking a more engaging outdoor activity, Spikeball requires dexterity, agility and endurance. It can be set up on the grass or beach, as two pairs of players maneuver the ball onto the net to get past their opponent to win.
Sold by Amazon
Franklin Sports Throw ‘N Stick Toss + Catch Game
Ideal for younger kids who are starting to develop their throwing and catching abilities, this toss game features paddles with Velcro to secure the ball. It comes at a low price and is ready to enjoy right out of the box.
Sold by Amazon
Amazon Basics Outdoor Volleyball and Badminton Set
The versatile set welcomes those who enjoy both outdoor volleyball and badminton. The set includes racquets, birdies, a volleyball, nets and a carrying case to take to the yard, park or beach.
Sold by Amazon
NomNom Toys Glow-in-the-Dark Lawn Darts
This simple toss game is geared for younger kids with soft, durable materials and easy setup. It’s suitable for the yard or the beach, and the lawn darts glow in the dark, welcoming play once the sun goes down.
Sold by Amazon
Other top deals for outdoor play
- A colorful and elegant croquet set for sophisticated fun
- This traditional bocce ball set for those seeking a leisurely pursuit
- A simple flying disc provides plenty of fun for two or more to enjoy
- The classic game of horseshoes never gets old
- This giant wooden four-in-a-row game is a great way to bring your guests together
- A Nerf Disruptor Elite Blaster that’s sure to be a hit with kids or adults
- The intense new game of PaddleSmash is a lively challenge for up to four players
- This set of outdoor kids’ games includes a potato sack race
- A tug-of-war rope is a must for a field day
For Lego fans
Lego Marvel Avengers Iron Man Hall of Armor
Featuring one of the most popular Avengers, this Marvel Lego set showcases Iron Man’s famous hall of suits. The kid-size set includes five minifigs as well as a large mech suit.
Sold by Amazon
For those who want to enjoy building a set that fits into a more adult home, this stunning and inventive Lego build comes together as several succulents. At 771 pieces, it takes patience; upon completion, it can be proudly displayed.
Sold by Amazon
Lego Icons Back to the Future Time Machine
A faithful recreation of one of the most iconic cars in movie history, this intricate set features the DeLorean from “Back to the Future.” It comes with Doc and Marty minifigs, as well as a plaque to display.
Sold by Amazon
Lego Marvel Studios Guardians of the Galaxy 2022 Advent Calendar
A favorite annual Lego release, the Marvel Advent calendar this year focuses on the interstellar Guardians of the Galaxy. Expect plenty of Christmas-themed minifigs as well as some small, creative builds.
Sold by Amazon
Lego Star Wars Mandalorian Starfighter
For younger “Star Wars” fans, this “Star Wars” Lego set creates a dynamic ship and three minifigs for interactive fun. It boasts a movable cockpit as well as blasters that fire projectiles. You can even break the code and remove a Mandalorian’s helmet.
Sold by Amazon
Lego Creator 3-in-1 Majestic Tiger
For ages 9 and up, this colorful build comes from the Creator series, which offers three designs made from the same Lego blocks. With over 700 pieces, choose between a tiger, fish and raccoon.
Sold by Amazon
Lego City Great Vehicles Mobile Crane
This simpler set featuring a crane appeals to younger builders from age 7. As part of the City series, it includes two minifigs and allows for interactive play.
Sold by Amazon
This set faithfully recreates the main setting of one of the best comedies of all time in “Seinfeld.” The subject matter and high piece count make this for teens and adults. There are five minifigs to position within as well.
Sold by Amazon
For the car fan in your life, this build as part of the interactive Technic series features a realistic McLaren with plenty of movable elements. The end result can be played with or put on display.
Sold by Amazon
Lego Friends Pet Adoption Cafe
This set is part of the ongoing Lego Friends series set in Heartlake City. Geared to younger builders who enjoy stories, it boasts two mini-dolls and several adorable pets that need loving homes.
Sold by Amazon
Other top deals for Lego fans
- A Duplo Animals Set is a perfect introduction to Legos for toddlers
- A unique Fender Strat guitar set is made for older, musical Lego enthusiasts
- From “Guardians of the Galaxy” comes this excitable baby Groot
- For the festive season, try this cute holiday penguin
- This Lego Friends Forest House will let a kid’s imagination run free with tranquil wildlife play
- From “Jurassic World Dominion” come raptors Blue and her baby
- Enjoy a classic build with this stunning and simple James Bond Aston Martin
- From the beloved game, check out this Minecraft portal build
- Mighty Bowser is an exciting choice for Mario fans
- Older kids will love the Lego Star Wars Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing Fighter to recreate scenes from the classic trilogy
For gamers
For those seeking an upgrade to their gaming, give this latest version of the Oculus virtual reality set. The new headset is light, comfortable and provides stunning visuals.
Sold by Amazon
The much-anticipated sequel to God of War is finally here, as gamers can experience a new journey with Kratos and his son. There are sure to be colorful realms filled, mythical creatures and a fair amount of blood.
Sold by Amazon
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
Another notable new release, the latest adventures of Mario find beloved Nintendo characters exploring fun new worlds in this strategy game. There’s high replay value with side quests, secrets and tactical battles.
Sold by Amazon
One of the more enduring video game franchises, the latest edition of Call of Duty was just released, with more first-person action set in the present day. Familiar characters return to face new threats amid thrilling sequences fans have come to expect from this series.
Sold by Amazon
This headset provides comprehensive surround sound for dedicated gamers seeking to immerse themselves in their virtual worlds. It comes from a trusted brand in gaming and is offered in various colors.
Sold by Amazon
Though a few years old, the handheld Nintendo Switch continues to be a popular console for gamers of all ages. The latest model comes with a high-quality OLED screen, providing vivid detail and stunning contrast.
Sold by Amazon
Gift an extra Xbox controller for local coop and multiplayer gaming. This reliable controller comes in several designs and colors and is also useful as a backup for serious gamers.
Sold by Amazon
PlayStation 5 Horizon Forbidden West Bundle
While it still may be difficult to get your hands on immediately, this PS5 bundle will bring joy to anyone who’s been patiently waiting for the next-gen console. Play right out of the box with the open world adventure Horizon Forbidden West.
Sold by Amazon
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cowabunga Collection
This collection for Switch is terrific for older gamers nostalgically pining for retro titles. It includes over a dozen old TMNT games, including the classic arcade adventure.
Sold by Amazon
This new release finds action and mystery in Gotham following the death of Batman. For those who enjoyed the Arkham series, this similarly styled game features Batgirl, Nightwing, Red Hood and Robin fighting for justice.
Sold by Amazon
Other top deals for gamers
- This sensitive, colorful ASUS gaming keyboard
- Top gaming headphones from a leading company
- A controller charging station for the PS5
- A unique game where you play as a stray cat
- A sensitive, high-quality gaming mouse
- The “Star Wars” saga in Lego gaming form
Dolls, action figures and imaginative play
Gabby’s Dollhouse Cakey Kitchen Set
Kids will have a blast with this interactive kitchen set. When they push the button on Cakey’s stand and turn the stove knobs, kids can hear over 20 sounds, including cooking noises, music and phrases. It stands over 3 feet tall and comes with all kitchen necessities.
Sold by Amazon
Squishmallows Official 8-Inch Plush Mystery Box
Squishmallows may be the hottest toys this season, and this mystery box is for anyone who wants a little surprise. While the box contains three randomly chosen styles, they’ll all be 8 inches and feature that super-soft marshmallow texture that everyone loves to cuddle.
Sold by Amazon
Magic Mixies Magical Misting Crystal Ball
Magic Mixies crystal balls are a top seller this season, so be sure to grab one while you can. With an interactive light-up wand, kids can perform real magic to create an adorable fortune-telling pet. Plus, the process can be repeated again and again.
Sold by Amazon
Little Live Pets Mama Surprise with Guinea Pig and Hutch
Instead of buying a real guinea pig, fascinate little ones with this mama that magically has three babies. Kids can put Mama in her hutch overnight and be surprised when they wake up to a new guinea pig baby to nurture and love.
Sold by Amazon
CoComelon Official Musical Bedtime JJ Doll
Kids who never miss an episode of CoComelon will love this musical JJ doll, who’s one of the main characters. It’s made of soft plush perfect for cuddling. Plus, the doll plays a variety of sounds, phrases and songs from the show.
Sold by Amazon
Barbie Doll Cutie Reveal Llama Fantasy Series Doll
Surprise toys are trending this year, and this Barbie doll features a ton of surprises when opened. The doll inside a plush llama costume is revealed after the soft costume head is lifted. It includes clothes, a pet and accessories.
Sold by Amazon
Other top doll, action figure and imaginative play deals
- The huggable Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set for a screen-free listening experience packed with bedtime stories and music
- This Hot Wheels Set lets them safely explore daredevil stunts
- This versatile Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Multi-Activity Play Table for containing Legos, trains, arts and crafts, puzzles and blocks
- A flashy Lamborghini Electric Ride-On Car with swing-up doors that’s sure to wow any kid
- Collectible 5 Surprise Foodie Mini Brands full of fan-favorite fast-food brands, including Subway, Sonic and White Castle
- The Playskool Heroes Marvel Action Figure Set lets them bring their favorite superheroes, such as the Hulk and Spider-Man, to life
- The 25th anniversary Tamagotchi Original that’s still trending after all these years
- A Playskool Sit ‘n Spin so toddlers can spin themselves silly
- This detailed and innovative KidKraft Grand Gourmet Wooden Play Kitchen complete with real curtains and working doors
- The Melissa & Doug Wooden Take-Along Sorting Barn for encouraging fine motor skills, matching, sorting and creative play
STEM toys
Magna-Tiles Arctic Animals 25-Piece Set
In addition to receiving geometric shapes that stick together with a magnet, this set also includes brand-new magnetic arctic animals, including a penguin, seal, whale, mama polar bear and baby polar bear. This screen-free toy encourages critical thinking skills and is a STEM toy.
Sold by Amazon
This smart robot is controlled with a remote, smartphone or voice. It can be programmed with up to 200 actions, including facial expressions, gymnastics, telling a story, playing music or even having a dance party. The robot runs for 100 minutes on a full charge.
Sold by Amazon
With this versatile Magformer set, kids can create their own designs or follow the included activity cards. The set comes with various geometric pieces and wheels on an axle to make a variety of vehicles. Plus, all the parts contain magnets that will never reject another piece.
Sold by Amazon
National Geographic Geode STEM Kit
Discover crystal treasure with this kit by breaking open one of the hand-selected geodes. They vary in size from a ping-pong ball to a tennis ball, so you never know what you’ll get. It also comes with a full-color learning guide.
Sold by Amazon
View the moon and other planets up close with this beginner telescope. It comes with everything a budding astronomer needs, including a tripod, two eyepieces, a finder scope, a Barlow lens, a Bluetooth remote and a carrying bag.
Sold by Amazon
Kid K’NEX Oodles of Pals Building Set
This building set is suitable for all ages and is made to encourage toddlers and young minds. It comes with 116 flexible parts and pieces that allow young builders to build and create anything they can imagine.
Sold by Amazon
Other top STEM toy deals
- This Meccano Super Construction Motorized Building Set that allows kids to build 25 unique construction vehicles, including a helicopter, forklift and buggy crane
- A magical Crystal Growing Science Experimental Kit to grow seven crystals and admire them in the included display case
- The Sillbird STEM 12-in-1 Education Solar Robot that features 12 unique robots that move on land or water
- Get toddlers and preschoolers interested in science with the Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Kids Microscope
- This massive National Geographic Earth Science Kit with more than 15 experiment activities, from building an erupting volcano to dueling water tornadoes
- The PicassoTiles 80-Piece Race Car Track Building Set to have fun while learning and playing
- A Magformers XL Cruisers Set with 32 geometric-shaped pieces to build any car they can imagine
- This educational and fun flower garden-building STEM toy that encourages hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
- Kids will be amazed when they build this Thames & Kosmos Mega Cyborg Hand STEM Experiment Kit
- This Lego Chain Reactions Activity Kit to teach your bricks new tricks
- An interactive Osmo Coding Starter Kit for Fire Tablet that gives an introduction to coding
Games
ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run Game
Combine challenging mind puzzles, STEM learning and endless fun in one game. It features challenges that build spatial reasoning skills and encourages young engineers to build a working maze.
Sold by Amazon
The classic card game of Uno is back with family in mind, and it comes in a sturdy tin that’s convenient for travel. It comes with 112 cards and customizable wild cards that add a little twist.
Sold by Amazon
This game only takes two minutes to learn and 15 minutes to play, making it an easy choice for family game nights or when friends come to visit. It’s a combination of Uno and roulette, except there are goats, magical enchiladas and killer kittens.
Sold by Amazon
Hasbro Connect 4 Strategy Board Game
While Connect 4 is a nostalgic game that’s been played for decades, this one features a slight twist for additional strategy. In addition to red and yellow discs, this game also comes with blue discs that block an opponent’s path and lift other discs higher.
Sold by Amazon
Exploding Kittens Throw Throw Burrito
This is the world’s first dodgeball card game. The goal of the game is to collect matching sets of cards faster than your opponents while simultaneously ducking, dodging and throwing squishy airborne burritos. It comes with two foam burritos, burrito bruise patches and a Fear Me badge.
Sold by Amazon
What Do You Meme? Family Edition
This repurposed meme game is now appropriate for family-friendly game nights. It comes with 300 caption cards and 65 photo cards that allow players to choose the best meme.
Sold by Amazon
Other top deals on games
- The Best Friend Game that’s similar to the newlywed version, but for friends
- Test someone’s surgeon skills and promote fine motor skills with the classic Operation
- The Super Mega Lucky Box that takes only 20 minutes and is suitable for a single person or up to six players
- The two-player A Little Wordy for anyone who loves word games, board games and outsmarting your opponent
- The Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game to bring along on vacation or quickly play while traveling
- Don’t Break the Ice that’s suitable for toddlers and improves fine motor skills
- Play Czech Games Codenames together to contact all of the agents before the opposing team
- The interactive Yeti in My Spaghetti game that features everyone’s favorite Italian dish and promotes silly fun
- The 5-Second Rule game to tongue-tie opponents and get them to say funny answers
- This Hedbanz game with six new headbands to choose from, including a cat, crown, unicorn and pirate
Contributing authors: Bre Richey and Anthony Marcusa
Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Bre Richey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.