The 10 Coolest Toys of 2010

Even if you're an adult, you have to appreciate the vast array of neat new toys that hit the shelves during 2010. In the past, single items like the Chatty Cathy, Cabbage Patch Kids, Transformers, Tickle Me Elmo or Furby were all the rage. As toymakers have evolved, they've produced higher quantities of even cooler items, making it more difficult for kids to decide what they really want as special occasions approach. As you peruse the aisles of your local toy store or browse around online, be on the lookout for the following items. Each one has incited the gimmes from kids across the country.

Hasbro's FurReal Friends starting at $29.95

FurReal GoGo My Walkin' Pup: The FurReal GoGo My Walkin' Pup is perfect for kids who've had a puppy on their wish list but aren't quite ready for the real deal just yet. Kids can become dog-owners-in-training, as the pup responds to sound and motion by barking, panting and whining. She loves to be taken for walks, so she comes with a leash that enables her walker to control her movements. The only potential obstacle that accompanies adopting the pup is keeping her soft white fur clean.

Spy Net: Secret Mission Video Watch: Almost two decades ago, the Talkboy was the leading toy for young spies. Today, it's the Spy Net: Secret Mission Video Watch, which comes equipped with playback video, audio and photos. Parents and children alike are amazed by its capabilities: it can secretly record up to 20 minutes of video and four hours of audio, and capture up to 2000 pictures. The full-color 1.4-inch TFT screen allows users to watch live playback and recorded videos. After a mini-James Bond or Harriet the Spy has discovered all of the secrets of their neighborhood, he or she can download video spy missions from SpyNetHQ.com.

Nerf N-Strike Recon CS-6 Dart Blaster: Warriors-in-training who've made the New Year's resolution to dominate every Nerf battle in 2011 ought to give the Nerf N-Strike Recon CS-6 Dart Blaster a shot. Shooters can assemble their own blaster with the use of five interchangeable parts, snapping them onto the Tactical Rail in an effort to gain an advantage over their dart-tag enemies. A flip-up sight and a dual-mode light beam with red-dot accuracy ensure that all shots are precise during the day or night. Be sure to stock up on darts if you plan to make this purchase.

Fushigi Magic Gravity Ball: The Fushigi Magic Gravity Ball is a toy for teens and grownups who are dedicated to mastering the skill of juggling, specifically contact juggling. The operator who correctly uses the ball is able to create an illusion that defies gravity, making it appear as though the ball is moving and floating on its own. This is caused by the combination of hand and body isolations and movements along with the ball's reflectiveness. Once the skill is learned, engaging in the activity regularly can serve to clear the mind and promote relaxation, which is a nice added benefit. Click here for YouTube Video.

LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle: Elaborate LEGO sets have long been among the coolest toys around — the most recent of which, the Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle, is on par with some of brand's biggest hits, including the Skull's Eye Schooner and Royal Knight's Castle. Kids who are both LEGO collectors and Harry Potter fanatics are sure to enjoy this 1,290 piece set that features Harry Potter, Hermione Grange, Lord Voldemort, Albus Dumbledore and several other prominent characters. The castle notably features Dumbledore's office and Gryffindor common room. Even if you don't care for the book or movie series, you'll be amazed by its details.
Beyblade Metal Fusion Super Vortex Battle Set: An updated and enhanced version of the game Battling Tops, the Beyblade Metal Fusion Super Vortex Battle Set comes with new rules and a new element of fun. The ripcord powered launch-able tops are now customizable, so competitors can build one they deem best fit to defeat their opponent in the Beystadium battle arena. Players must determine the best combinations of tip types, wheel shapes, spin direction and height in order to increase their chances of victory. Battles require strategy and adherence to rules that ensure fairness. It's a fun game for kids who enjoy the thrill of contact sports but also like to use their minds every once in a while.

Fisher-Price Dance Star Mickey: Dance Star Mickey follows in the tradition of previous life-like television and movie characters who have captured the fancy of young children. Like Tickle Me Elmo, this Mickey does exactly what his title indicates, turning into a dance star after his foot is pressed. Kids have a blast as they participate in six different songs and dances, including Latin techno, the moonwalk and disco. Mickey even leads two interactive games when the kids are tired of groovin'. It's likely to become one of those toys that emerges from the closet years from now, serving as a reminder of the height of your child's cuteness.

Barbie Glam Vacation House: Although the Barbie Glam Vacation House first hit the shelves in late 2009, it has remained one of the most popular toys of 2010. Days of fun are provided in the two-story, six-room house that consists of a living room, kitchen, breakfast bar, bedroom, bathroom and patio; also included are a couch, bed and blender. Amateur interior decorators enjoy adorning the inside with decorative pieces such as tiki lights and a chandelier. Parents appreciate that it can be folded and replaced, so it doesn't have to perpetually occupy a large amount of space. All things considered, this is an essential item for the latest generation of Barbie lovers.

Vtech Kidizoom Digital Camera: A mini-photographer can practice their craft with an eye-catching Vtech Kidizoom Digital Camera. This ideal first camera is extremely durable and highly functional. It can handle the wear and tear that any young child's favorite toy experiences while continuing to provide quality photos with its 64MB of built-in memory. What's more, a built-in photo editor can add 12 fun frames and stamps, or two kaleidoscope effects. Its big buttons and 1.8-inch color LCD screen ensure it's easy to use, so parents whose children can't keep their hands off the complicated family camera have found a solution.

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