Overview

• The list spans two-and-a-half centuries of play, from marbles sold in 1840 to modern hits like the Nintendo Switch (2017).
• Lego Classic Bricks, Barbie and Monopoly lead the rankings, with over one billion Barbies and 300 million Monopoly sets sold worldwide.
• Dolls and action figures make up about 20 percent of the entries, reflecting a sector valued at nearly £10 billion in 2024.
• Top entries blend enduring staples such as the Rubik’s Cube with fleeting crazes like Tamagotchi to illustrate evolving toy trends.
• Despite closing 29 stores this year, Hamleys reported profits for 2024 and used the list to reinforce its legacy as one of the world’s oldest toy retailers.