There's no denying that at some point, Pokémon was a huge part of our lives, so when it comes to buying Pokémon toys and gifts for our children (and of course, friends and partners), it can feel like reliving a part of your childhood.
It's nostalgic to think about times of trading Pokémon cards or watching the original animated series, and even if you wasn't that bothered about it, kids toys and games available today can still provide so much fun for children and families.
Best Pokémon toys and gifts for kids at a glance:
• Best Pokémon toys playset: MEGA Pokémon Playset Forest Pokémon Centre - Buy now on Amazon UK.
• Best Pokémon toys squishmallow: Squishmallow Pokémon 14-inch Winking Pikachu Plush - Buy now on Argos.
• Best Pokémon Christmas gifts: Pokemon Advent Calander - Buy now on Argos.
There's been a whole new range of Pokémon added since the original generation, meaning more games and character toys. From cuddly Pokémon plush dolls to Nintendo Switch games, there's a whole range of toys and gifts that are perfect for kids.
Best Pokémon toys playset
on sale
The MEGA Pokémon Playset Forest Pokémon Centre is great for older children. The Pokémon Centre opens up so it can be played with, and it even has rotating doors. Popular characters Pikachu, Chansey, Eevee and Togepi. It comes with easy to follow instructions too.
One customer wrote: "The whole thing is laid out really well, the bags are numbered well and the booklet is really big with big, clear instructions. My 8 year old built this himself during the day, although I did need to assist him on a few steps which require a careful placement and something a steady, firm push."
Pros
- Includes four Pokémon figures
- Easy to build
- Hours of fun
Cons
- Some children might need support with building
Dimensions: | 25.4 x 25.4 x 15.24 cm |
Pieces: | 648 |
Suitable for ages: | 7+ |
- Includes 4 Pokémon figures
- Rotating door
Best Pokémon toys Squishmallow
www.argos.co.uk
The Squishmallows Pokémon 14-inch Winking Pikachu Plush is the softest and cuddliest teddy ever. Little ones will love squishing this Pikachu teddy as it's the perfect snuggle companion for at home, car rides and even at sleepovers.
One review from another Pikachu Squishmallow said: "Purchased for my son as a birthday gift as he collects squishmallows and he loves this one - it makes a perfect pillow too."
Pros
- Super soft
- Part of a collection
Cons
- It is quite big
Dimensions: | 14 inch |
Suitable for ages: | 3 years+ |
Material: | N/A |
- Super squishy Pikachu
Best Pokémon waffle maker
The Uncanny Brands Pokemon Pikachu Mini Waffle Maker adds a new level of fun to breakfast time. Easy to use and creating a Pikachu face on the waffle, kids (and adults) will absolutely love this waffle maker. It plugs in and can be stored away easily, and a huge bonus is that it's easy to clean.
One review said: "Was half expecting this to not work to be honest. But it actually does! Instructions are straight forward and easy to follow. Waffles are about the size of my hand, so not giant things. The kids went mental decorating!"
Pros
- Easy to use
- Creates fun pictures
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can only do one at a time
Dimensions: | 18.7 x 10.5 x 15cm |
Non stick: | Yes |
Colour: | Red |
Power: | Plug in |
- Easy to use
- Plug in powered
- Non-stick
Best Pokémon toys accessory
Perfect for adults and children with a Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch Cargo Pouch Compact Eevee Evolutions has plenty of space to keep the switch and accessories stored securely. It's a beautiful and subtle design on the case.
One review said: "Love this soo much. It's perfect plenty of space for my accessories. Plenty of protection and just looks so good."
Pros
- Plenty of storage space
- Beautiful design
Cons
- Switch won't fit if you change the joy cons
Dimensions: | 30 x 18 x 6cm |
Material: | N/A |
Fastening: | Zip |
- Plenty of space
- Protective
Best Pokémon toys Nintendo game
www.currys.co.uk
Filled with gorgeous and enchanting visuals that little ones won't be able to take their eyes off, the Nintendo Switch New Pokémon Snap consists of adventuring around the Pokémon world and capturing photographs of all the exotic Pokémon that they find. A simplistic, slow-paced and relaxing game that's easy for little ones to enjoy.
One review said: "I've played a bit of the original Snap, and this new version is brilliant, both nostalgic and has an awesome sense of freshness at the same time. I love it and recommend it to any Pokémon fan, especially if they have an interest in photography too!"
Pros
- Perfect for younger kids
- Colourful, attractive graphics
- Easy to follow game
Cons
- May be too slow-paced for older kids
Suitable for ages: | 3 years+ |
Compatible with: | Nintendo Switch |
Format: | Game card |
Best Pokémon toys handbook
To brush up on their Pokémon knowledge, this Pokémon Super Extra Deluxe Essential Handbook will help them to learn all about the different Pokémon that have featured in the series across the years, including their strengths, weaknesses and, of course, how to become the strongest Pokémon trainer around!
One review said: "Bought this for my nephew last Christmas (almost 7 years old at the time). I've never seen him so interested in reading before (he absolutely hates books). He actually put the games down and was more interested in the book."
Pros
- Great value
- Packed full of information
- Highly rated
Cons
- Doesn't include the latest generation
Dimensions: | 15 x 3 x 222cm |
Suitable for ages: | 6+ years |
Number of pages: | 560 |
Edition: | 2021 |
- Over 900 Pokémon
- Paperback
Best Pokémon toys 4-plush pack
on sale
www.smythstoys.com
For a set of the most iconic Pokémon of the series, this Pokémon Plush Toys 20cm 4 Pack includes Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Squirtle and Charmander. The good news? They won't have to choose between grass, water or fire because they'll have them all!
One review said: "Absolutely superb plush toys. Look even better than the photos. My girls love them. Thought about buying two individually for pretty much the same price and am very glad I went with these four. Thoroughly recommended."
Pros
- Comes as a set
- Made from soft material
- Accurate character design
Cons
- Sets only include starter generation
Dimensions: | 20cm |
Suitable for ages: | 2+ years |
- 4 x plush dolls
- Soft
Best Pokémon toys jigsaw
A great puzzle, the Ravensburger Pokemon 100 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle, is extra large and features older generation Pokémon such as Charizard, Snorlax, Mewtwo and, of course, Pikachu. With 100 pieces to figure out, this puzzle is a challenge for the kids, encouraging them to build on their problem skills.
One review said: "Nice jigsaw. My seven-year-old is Pokémon mas, and he loves it. We enjoyed building it together and on his own. Sturdy pieces and a nice size."
Pros
- Easily buildable
- Sturdy pieces
- Bright, attractive colours
Cons
- We can't think of any
Age suitability: | Six years+ |
Best Pokémon toys adventure game
The Pokemon Violet Nintendo Swithc game is another in the classic series, but this time with an open world concept, making the adventure a lot more fun and free. It has a great storyline and there's a lot more Pokémon for you to discover.
One review said: "This Pokémon game takes the best of its forerunners. Classic Pokémon game, but open world and catch style like Arceus. More things to do than battle gyms, such as beat the 'team' up to no good, and look for rare items. As such, the game provides greater play time for players. I've probably logged over 20 hours but only have 2 gym badges so far."
Pros
- New style of adventure
- New Pokémon
Cons
- Some wished there were more new Pokémon
Suitable for ages: | 7 years+ |
Compatible with: | Nintendo Switch |
Format: | Game card |
Best Pokémon toys backpack playset
www.very.co.uk
A great setting for their play is the Pokémon Carrycase Playset from Argos. With loads of little details, such as dens for water Pokémon, grass Pokémon and cave-dwelling Pokémon, it'll provide loads of entertainment. It also features a battleground where they can have their own Pokémon battles. Of course, it also folds away, meaning minimal mess!
One review said: "Was a great gift. My son really enjoyed this, was a lovely surprise for him.."
Pros
- Folds into a backpack
- Interactive features
- Great for collaborative play
Cons
- Action figures sold separately
Dimensions: | 23 x 26 x 13cm |
Suitable for ages: | 4+ years |
- Interactive elements
- Folds into backpack
- 1 x Pikachu figure
Best Pokémon poke ball toys
ON OFFER
www.argos.co.uk
If they want to have a go at being the best Pokémon trainer around, this collectable Poke Ball can be used to catch Pokémon in real life too. The Pokémon Clip 'N' Go Balls come with a figure inside, and you'll be surprised to find either Pikachu, Charmander, Bulbasaur or Squirtle.
One review said: "Bought for grandson who already has the belt they clip on to. He loves them. Good deal with buying two." Another said: "Hours of fun had by my son. These are great value too, just a shame you can’t choose which one you get when buying multiple."
Pros
- Comes with its own figurine
- Opens when thrown
Cons
- Can't pick which character you get
Dimensions: | N/A |
Figure size: | 2 inch |
- 1 x Poke ball
- 1 x mini figure
Best Pokémon bookends
www.pokemoncenter.com
These Slumbering Snorlax Bookends are brilliant! Tilting the books at a slight angle to make it look like Snorlax has knocked them over, Pikachu, Togepi and Timbur are at the other side trying to hold them up. They are pretty heavy, so make sure they are out of reach from children.
One review said: "Cute and whimsical bookends, love the detail on this one. The size and weight are quite hefty, which is perfect if you have any large hardback books that you need to hold in place. Looks awesome on the shelf!"
Pros
- Strong
- Great features and design
Cons
- Heaviness won't be suited to young children
Dimensions: | 15 x 13 x 19cm and 20 x 17 x 23cm |
Material: | Resin / iron |
- 2 x bookends
Best Pokémon toys sleeping plush
www.very.co.uk
The 19" Sleeping Plush Charmander is large scale and super cuddly. Its soft fabric exterior and fluffy filling makes it ideal for play time, nap time and just snuggling in general. The special sleeping pose makes it a unique plush to other Pokemon teddies too.
Pros
- Cuddly and soft
- Big plush toy
Cons
- No onsite reviews
Dimensions: | 45cm |
Material: | Plush |
Suitable for ages: | 3+ years |
Pokemon Christmas gifts
Best Pokemon Christmas gifts figure calendar
www.argos.co.uk
With 24 holiday themed figures and accessories inside, each figure has a pearlescent finish to give them a lovely look.
One review said: "Can't wait for our son to see this advent calendar. He will love it Thanks "
Dimensions: | N/A |
Suitable for ages: | 4+ years |
Best Pokemon Christmas gifts Pikachu ornament
www.pokemoncenter.com
The sweetest hanging ornament for the tree, the Pikachu Together for the Holidays Ornament features Pikachu himself, playing a Snorlax shaped drum.
One review said: "This is a stunning Christmas tree ornament highly recommend this item detail is perfect"
Best Pokemon Christmas gifts
The Pokémon Boys Pikachu Christmas Jumper is perfect for girls and boys really, and comes in sizes 5 to 6 years, up to 11 to 12 years. It features a Pikachu with scarf and hat on the front.
One review said: "For grandson excellent fit quality and design very happy with purchase and delivery." Another customer wrote: "The boy is delighted. Beautifully finished sweater. It doesn't itch, it's nice and soft."
Best Pokemon Christmas gifts
A great gift and Advent calendar in one, the Pokémon TCG: Holiday Calendar comes with eight foil promo cards that feature a festive stamp, as well as two Pokémon coins, two sticker sheets, a side kick dangler, and seven TCG-three card fun packs.
One customer wrote: "Well I can't talk about the product as it a advent calendar. But the package was in perfect condition and I did price up how much the cards would have been to purchase individual and this is the same if not a little cheaper."
FAQs
Where did Pokémon come from?
Pokémon originated in Japan in 1996. The term 'Pokémon' comes from the combined abbreviation of 'pocket monsters.' While it saw the majority of its popularity through the '90s, it's still a popular franchise today.
The animated series saw protagonist Ash Ketchum and sidekick Pikachu (from the Japanese word, 'mouse') on their adventures across the Pokémon world, training at the Pokémon gyms and battling against other Pokémon trainers.
As well as television, the franchise has seen its success across various game consoles and through trading cards throughout the years. It's also seen a few updates, with new Pokémon for kids to fall in love with.
And, of course, not to mention the merchandise! From the best Pokémon toys for kids, teenagers and adults to the best Pokémon clothing. This series definitely isn't going anywhere anytime soon.
Is Pokémon still popular?
In short - yes! The franchise is still very much popular with kids, teenagers and adults alike. With new releases on the Nintendo Switch, Pokémon stays ever relevant. From television to games and trading cards, Pokémon is still going strong.
Is Pokémon kid friendly?
Pokémon was created specifically as a children's franchise, so we'd say it's pretty child-friendly! We've broken down the categories, including games, television shows and trading cards, to give some insight into whether Pokémon is age appropriate for your child.
Games: These will vary in rating. Some may be suitable from three years old, while others will have an age rating from seven years and above. Subjects of games will also vary, with adventure games, battle games or puzzle games being the main themes. Of course, you'll want to limit their screen time accordingly!
Television shows: If you're wanting to introduce them to the animated series, this age rating is also recommended for seven years and above. This is largely due to the battle scenes that take place. However, these battle scenes aren't remotely graphic and don't show any details of injuries.
Trading cards: In our opinion, the age range of five years old and above would get the most benefit out of trading cards. This is because they require a bit of thought and strategy. This consists of collecting cards or battling it out with friends to see who's card is the strongest.
How we test and choose recommended products
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.
For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.
Samantha Ball is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.