Toys From the 2020s: History's Best Sellers

Make way for the hits of 2020s! This remarkable era stood as a testament to the turn-of-the-millennium pop explosion and the march of first-rate toys. Crowd-pleasers such as Rainbow High shared the spotlight with mega-bestsellers Atari VCS and Final Girl. Brought to you by top-notch makers from industry leaders like MGA Entertainment and Flex (console), these trailblazing products dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike and earned a permanent place in cultural lore. Check out the complete rank-ordered ledger below to relive the finest releases of the year.

1. Rainbow High (dolls)

   Released in 2020 by MGA Entertainment

   Rainbow High dolls burst onto the toy scene in 2020, quickly establishing themselves as a vibrant and compelling new entrant in the fashion doll market. Launched by MGA Entertainment, the creators behind successful franchises like Bratz and L.O.L. Surprise!, Rainbow High captivated young audiences with its unique premise: an elite visual arts high school where students express their personalities through bold fashion and striking, color-themed aesthetics. The line's immediate popularity was fueled by a strong multimedia strategy, including a high-quality animated YouTube series that introduced the characters and their world, turning the dolls into more than just toys but protagonists in an engaging narrative. This strategic launch positioned Rainbow High as a significant cultural phenomenon, resonating with children who sought creative expression and diverse characters.

2. Atari VCS (2021 console)

   Released in 2021 by Flex (console), PowerA (controllers)

   The Atari VCS (2021 console) emerged with a wave of nostalgia and anticipation, promising to bridge the gap between retro charm and modern functionality. Unveiled after years of development, it aimed to captivate both old-school Atari enthusiasts and contemporary gamers seeking a unique multimedia device. Its launch, initially to crowdfunding backers in late 2020 and then widely in mid-2021, represented a bold attempt to rekindle the magic of one of gaming's most storied brands. While it didn't achieve the mass market penetration of its major console rivals, it carved out a niche as a distinctive piece of gaming hardware, leaning heavily on the legendary Atari name to attract a dedicated audience.

3. Final Girl

   Released in 2021 by Van Ryder Games, Evan Derrick, A. J. Porfirio

   Final Girl burst onto the board game scene in 2021, building on the acclaimed solo-gaming mechanics of its spiritual predecessor, Hostage Negotiator. Launched with a hugely successful Kickstarter campaign that garnered over $2.2 million, it immediately captured the attention of horror fans and solo gamers alike. The game offered a fresh, immersive take on the slasher film genre, allowing players to step into the shoes of a resilient protagonist fighting for survival against a terrifying killer. Its blend of tense decision-making, thematic storytelling, and highly modular gameplay promised an unparalleled experience, quickly establishing Final Girl as a must-have title for those seeking high-stakes, cinematic tabletop adventures right from its debut.

4. Summoner Wars (Second Edition)

   Released in 2021 by Plaid Hat Games, Colby Dauch

   Summoner Wars (Second Edition) burst onto the board gaming scene in 2021, reigniting the passions of fans of its predecessor and captivating a new generation of tactical card game enthusiasts. This highly anticipated reimagining of the original Summoner Wars quickly established itself as a cornerstone in the realm of two-player skirmish games. It was met with immediate critical acclaim for its streamlined rules, breathtaking new artwork, and meticulously balanced asymmetrical factions. More than just an update, the second edition was a complete overhaul, designed to enhance accessibility while deepening the strategic layers that made the original a cult classic, proving to be a significant commercial and critical success for Plaid Hat Games.