Fast, Connected, Screen-free: The Big Toy Trends Defining Christmas 2025

The 2025 festive season is being shaped by clear shifts in how South African families play. This year’s Top 21 Toys, released by Toys R Us South Africa, reveals five dominant trends: the rise of F1-themed play, screen-free family time, creative DIY sets, sensory collectibles, and purpose-driven gifting. The list blends high-tech fun with hands-on imagination, appealing to both kids and kidults.

Collect, Create, Repeat

Collectibles and sensory surprise toys continue their run as the ultimate “little win.” From quirky favourites like the Fuggler Fart Face Series to Mini Brands Fill the Fridge, unboxing culture is still irresistible. Interactive collectible ranges such as Barbie Pop Reveal Treat Series and Pets Alive Mama Turtle Surprise add a creative twist, mixing cuteness with hands-on discovery.

“Unboxing or blindbox toys give children a sense of discovery, every reveal feels like a little win,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us South Africa. “Collectibles also allow for self-expression and social sharing, which is why both kids and adults love them.”

Formula Fun: F1 and Racing Dominate

Formula 1 isn’t just a sport, it’s a cultural moment. Racing toys are among the strongest performers, from Hot Wheels F1 Sprint Race Circuit and LEGO Speed Champions Ferrari SF-24 to BBurago F1 Pit Pass diecast sets. For full-throttle excitement, the McLaren F1 12V Ride-On puts kids right on the track at home.

“Formula 1 has become a cultural phenomenon,” says Jacoby. “From ride-ons to diecast cars, kids are living out their racing dreams at home.”

High-Tech Takes Flight

Tech-driven play is soaring. Older kids and teens are gravitating toward gadgets that stretch imagination and skill. The Shadow X Dual Camera Drone and the Switch 2 Console + Headset Combo top high-tech wish lists, while the Airstrike Ultimate Power Blaster, Mud Slinger RC Rock Crawler, Bitzee Hamster, and Jurassic Villain keep action-play front and centre.

“We’re seeing technology becoming part of how kids explore their world, safely, creatively, and with confidence,” Jacoby notes. “From drones to gaming, these toys are teaching spatial thinking, coordination, and even teamwork.”

Imagination in Bloom

Creative, calming, and screen-free activities are making a comeback. Parents are prioritising play that nurtures imagination and mindfulness. The Home Deluxe Wooden Play Kitchen, Caylee Horse and Carriage, and Play-Doh Barbie Designer Fashion Show allow kids to build and design their own worlds. For nature-loving builders, the LEGO Botanicals Mini Orchid is a surprise hit with both kids and adults.

“Hands-on play, crafts, and creative builds help kids slow down and find joy away from screens,” Jacoby says.

Screen-Free Connection

South African families are rediscovering the value of unplugged time. Board games and role-play sets continue to anchor family bonding, with Monopoly Harry Potter and the Gabby’s Dollhouse Movie Dollhouse leading the “together time” trend.

“Games and creative sets are bringing people back around the table,” says Jacoby.

Shopping Smarter, Playing Kinder

Toys R Us has seen a strong rise in online purchases, boosted by its same-day delivery service at selected stores, a shift driven by convenience and festive time pressure.

The season also brings a meaningful addition: shoppers can add R5 at checkout to support the Reach For A Dream Foundation, helping children with life-threatening illnesses experience a dream come true.

“Last year we raised over half a million rand for Reach For A Dream,” Jacoby says. “This year we want to remind families that the true spirit of the season lies in giving, every R5 donation helps turn playtime into something powerful.”

Top 21 Toys of 2025

1. Mud Slinger Extreme RC Rock Crawler (R399.90 each)
2. Jurassic World Feature Villain (R999.90 each)
3. Airstrike Ultimate Power Blaster (R499.90 each)
4. Hot Wheels Racing Formula 1 Sprint Race Circuit (R799.90 each)
5. Shadow X 720p Dual Camera Drone (R1,499.90 each)
6. McLaren F1 Racing 12V Ride-On (R5,999.90 each)
7. BBurago Diecast 1:43 F1 Pit Pass Sets (R399.90 each)
8. Home Deluxe Wooden Play Kitchen with Accessories (R2,499.90 each)
9. Caylee Horse and Carriage Set (R499.90 each)
10. Pets Alive Mama Turtle Surprise Playset (R399.90 each)
11. Gabby’s Dollhouse Movie Dollhouse (R1999.90 each)
12. Mini Brands Fill the Fridge Playset & Assorted (R599.90 combo deal or R249 assorted capsules each)
13. Barbie Pop Reveal Treat Series Assorted (R599.90 each)
14. Little Live Pets My Baby Monkey & Panda S2 (R999.90 each)
15. Switch 2 Console and Headset Combo Deal (R12,999.90 each)
16. LEGO Speed Champions Ferrari SF-24 F1 Race 77242 (R399.90 each)
17. LEGO Botanicals Mini Orchid 10343 (R499.90 each)
18. Play-Doh Barbie Designer Fashion Show (R799.90 each)
19. Fuggler Fart Face Series 1 Assorted (R299.90 each)
20. Monopoly Harry Potter (R799.90 each)
21. Bitzee Hamster Ball Interactive Digital Pet (R1,299.90 each)

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