Kid critics crown SA’s coolest toys of 2025
After weeks of blasting, building, squishing and surfing, South Africa's youngest critics have crowned the festive season's must-have toys.
MAKRO and Game have revealed the top toys that had 500 young judges jumping, building, squishing, and surfing with joy as part of the annual Top Rated by Kids campaign.
Now in its fourth year, South Africa’s most adorable product testing programme invites kids to decide which toys deserve a spot on festive wish lists. The campaign has become a national favourite, helping families navigate the sometimes chaotic world of holiday toy shopping.
More than 500 young judges, aged six to 12, were put through the fun task of playing with hundreds of toys across categories like educational play, outdoor fun, dolls, puzzles, and action figures. “Kids know best when it comes to play,” said Massmart Marketing Executive Langa Khanyile.
Khanyile said allowing the young judges and intended consumer to test the product was the best way to assess which is the top toy for 2025. “The campaign gives South Africans a genuine insight into what truly excites children today, ensuring their voices are heard and directly influence toy selections in stores nationwide,” said Khanyile. “Top Rated by Kids reflects our ongoing commitment to helping customers make more informed choices during the holiday season, all rooted in our passion for creating joyful shopping experiences for families.”
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This year’s top 10 Makro and Game Top Rated by Kids toys are:
- Gel shot blaster
- Disney Stitch Radio Control Surfer
- I-Play Glowing Super Track
- X-Shot Pro Series Fury
- Squishmallows
- Double Bubble Snapshot Camera
- Lego F1 Racer Ferrari
- Mr Beast Lab Swarms
- Abacus Pixicade Mobile Game Maker
- Sticki Rolls Sticki Book
Khanyile said this year’s selections revealed just how plugged-in Mzansi kids are. “From movie tie-ins like Lilo & Stitch to evergreen favourites such as Hot Wheels, Barbie, Rainbocorns, Pets Alive and Spiderman, kids are clearly following the stories and characters they love across screens and into playtime. For younger children, Paw Patrol, Bluey and Gabby’s Dollhouse continue to be top picks thanks to their presence on TV and YouTube,” added Khanyile.
This year’s top-scoring toys will headline Makro and Game’s Annual Festive Toy Catalogue. Customers can discover the Top Rated by Kids winners online at www.makro.co.za and www.game.co.za.
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