Pokémon has been around for more than 15 years, but unlike other video game creations, Pokémon has stood the test of time. The recent release of the cult Pokémon Go game is surely testament to that!
With so much publicity surrounding Pokémon Go, no doubt your kids are clamoring for Pokémon in every shape and form. There are certainly plenty to choose from, including video games and action figure sets. However, is there any educational benefit to Pokémon toys – or are you wasting your money?
Most Pokémon games involve the search for Pokémon living in the wild. Children are encouraged to capture and train a Pokémon, with the goal of becoming a Pokémon Champion. Pokémon encourages strategic thinking and good sportsmanship. Many Pokémon toys and games also encourage children to read and develop their math skills, as well as get out and explore the great outdoors.
Here is our quick guide to the best Pokémon toys.
Pokémon Toys Your Kids Will Love
1. Pokémon Clip ‘N’ Carry Pokémon Belt
Your child can become a Master Pokémon Trainer with the aid of the Pokémon Clip ‘N’ Carry Pokémon belt. It comes with two Poke balls, two action figures, and two attack tags, but the belt can hold up to six balls at once. The belt is fully adjustable and will fit a large 4 year old.
2. How to Draw Pokémon
Creative kids will love the How to Draw Pokémon book. Kids can learn how to draw their favorite Pokémon, including everyone’s favorite: Pikachu. The book features step-by-step instructions, including bonus details on how to draw Pokémon in action. Younger children can also use it as a coloring book.
3. Pokémon Squirtle Soft Toy
The Pokémon Squirtle plush soft toy is a great toy for younger Pokémon fans. Like most soft Pokémon toys, this is perfect for kids aged 12 months and above. It is soft, cuddly, and very cute. Kids can take it to bed at night, or play action Pokémon games.
4. Pokémon Super Action Figure 4 Pack
The Pokémon Super Action Figure 4 Pack lets kids play multiple Pokémon battle configurations with one set. Each set contains two 4” Legendary articulated figures and two detailed 2” figures with attack tags. There are many different sets to choose from, so kids can pick their favorite Pokémon. This Pokémon toys set is suitable for children aged 4 years and above.
5. Pokémon Mini Action Figure Set
The Pokémon Mini Action Figure set contains 24 1” random PVC Pokémon pieces. This very inexpensive set can easily be bought with pocket money. Kids can use the pieces as collectibles when they first discover Pokémon toys, and if they continue enjoying Pokémon, you can upgrade to larger, boxed Pokémon action figures. The Pokémon Mini Action Figures can also be used as cake toppers, which is perfect if your child’s birthday party has a Pokémon theme!
6. Takaratomy Official Pokémon Mega Charizard Figure
The Takaratomy Official Pokémon X and Y Mega Charizard Y action figure is approximately 2” tall. Kids will love this action figure as it has moveable parts and can be used to great effect in Pokémon themed games.
7. TOMY Pokémon Pokedex Trainer Kit
Is your child an aspiring Pokémon trainer? If so, he will love this Pokémon trainer kit from TOMY. The set includes a 2” Pikachu action figure, 15 Pokedex ID tags, a glove just like the one Ash wears, and a belt clip with Pokeballs. Kids can use the Pokedex with Pokedex ID tags to check the stats on different Pokémon. This Pokémon toys trainer set is suitable for kids aged 4 years and above.
8. LOZ Diamond Blocks Nanoblock Pokémon Pikachu Educational Toy
The LOZ Diamond Blocks Nanoblock Pokémon Pikachu is a great value building block set for Pokémon fans. The set contains micro blocks made from non-toxic materials; their smooth surface is perfect for your children’s hands. Kids can use the blocks to construct their very own Pikachu. This toy is a good choice if you want your child to practice his fine motor skills.
9. Takaratomy Official Pokémon X and Y 2” Eevee Action Figure
This Eevee action figure is officially licensed by Takara Tomy and makes the perfect gift for Pokémon fans of all ages. The figure is approximately 2” tall and comes with a stand, so your child can display her Eevee figure when she is not playing with it. Start your Pokémon collection with an Eevee action figure or add it to an existing Pokémon collection. You can also use this Eevee figure as a cake topper.
10. Pokémon 3 Pack with Various Characters
This Pokémon pack of three action figures from TOMY is a great starter set for Pokémon mad kids. Each set comes with three 3” figures from the middle evolutions. The figures have multiple points of articulation and are highly detailed. Kids can play with each individual figure independently, or create an action packed Pokémon battle.
11. Oliadesign Complete Set of Pokémon Action Figures
The Oliadesign set of Pokémon action figures contains 144 pieces. Each individual Pokémon is approximately 0.59-0.98 inches tall and is made from high quality PVC material. It is the perfect starter set for Pokémon fans. Kids can create mega Pokémon battles all day long with this fun action set!
12. Nintendo Little Boys’ Plush Pikachu Lunch Bag
School will be so much more fun with a Pikachu lunch bag. This gorgeous lunch bag has a carry handle and zip closure. It is insulated, so food will stay nice and cool on hot days. The exterior of the lunch box is decorated with embroidered applique and features plush Pikachu ears.
13. RoomMates Pokémon Iconic Peel and Stick Wall Decals
Give your Pokémon fan a great Pokémon themed bedroom with these fun ‘peel and stick’ Pokémon wall decals. Each set contains 24 decals in different sizes. They are easy to apply and can be stuck on to any smooth surface. They are also easy to reposition.
Pokémon toys are perfect for all ages, but do beware of giving smaller action figures to toddlers. Have any Pokémon play recommendations? Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
Feature image adapted from image courtesy of Flickr, JD Hancock.