Looking back at 2025, it’s been a standout year for products that blur the line between plaything, collectible, and conversation piece. From lovingly crafted retro hardware and modernised racing toys to nostalgic handhelds and display-worthy builds, this year’s highlights share a common thread: they invite curiosity, spark joy, and reward time well spent. Whether you’re shopping for a lifelong gamer, a hands-on tinkerer, or someone who simply appreciates smart, playful design, these Press Play favorites represent some of the most exciting and gift-worthy releases the year had to offer.
ModRetro Chromatic
The ModRetro Chromatic emerged in 2025 as one of the most talked-about retro gaming handhelds of the year. Our review highlights how this device isn’t simply a nostalgic toy but a thoughtful re-imagining of the classic Game Boy Color, marrying authentic cartridge-level play with modern build quality and usability enhancements. The magnesium alloy shell, sunlight-readable IPS screen and true hardware compatibility set it apart from usual emulation devices, making it a genuinely premium experience for collectors and gamers alike. Its tactile controls and faithful recreation of original titles deliver a satisfying back-to-basics experience that still surprises with forward-looking touches.
As a gift, the Chromatic stands out for both retro fans and newcomers to classic handheld gaming. It evokes the joy of original cartridges while accommodating today’s lifestyles – perfect for long travel days or family gatherings where a sense of shared nostalgia elevates the moment. With its collectible appeal and thoughtful design, it’s the sort of present that sparks conversation and play long after the holiday unwrapping. Full review:
Carrera Hybrid Devil Drivers
Carrera’s Hybrid Devil Drivers took the classic racetrack toy in an exciting new direction in 2025, blending physical cars and tracks with app-enhanced control for dynamic free-roaming racing. Our coverage praises the slick, intuitive setup and the strategic depth that comes from combining thoughtful track design with Bluetooth-enabled digital controls. The set goes beyond traditional slot car play, letting players steer, overtake, and race without being locked into rails, which adds a surprising level of skill and competition.
As a gift, Devil Drivers hits a sweet spot between toy and tech. It’s engaging for family members of different ages, encouraging social play and shared competition, while its blend of physical and digital interaction feels particularly modern – ideal for holiday tabletop battles or seasonal gatherings. Whether for young racers or adult hobbyists, it’s a standout present that offers hours of entertainment. Full review:
Carrera Hybrid Devil Drivers review
Atari Gamestation Go
The Atari Gamestation Go captured attention as a retro handheld that packs more than 200 built-in titles into one portable form. The device’s inclusion of varied control methods – from a D-pad to paddle wheels and trackball emulation elements – makes it uniquely tailored to classic Atari gameplay, giving many older games a feel closer to their original hardware than typical handheld ports. The sizeable library, SmartGlow control guidance, and connectivity options like HDMI and USB-C expand its appeal beyond a simple plug-and-play console.
As a gift idea, the Gamestation Go stands out for fans of arcade and classic console gaming. It blends nostalgia with practical modern features, catering both to seasoned players revisiting favorites and newcomers curious about gaming history. While some build and performance trade-offs are noted, the breadth of content and distinctive control experience make it a compelling present for anyone who loves the timeless appeal of Atari’s catalog. Full review:
LEGO Minecraft: The Creeper
You can never go wrong with LEGO, and LEGO Minecraft: The Creeper captured hearts with its playful brick-built homage to one of modern gaming’s most iconic characters. In our review, this set is described as a satisfying blend of display-worthy design and hands-on building fun, with a substantial piece count that yields a striking finished model. Its aesthetic appeal taps into both LEGO’s construction charm and Minecraft’s beloved pixelized world, creating something that feels as much like art as a toy.
It makes an excellent gift for gamers and builders alike – especially those who enjoy hands-on projects and geek culture collectibles. Whether displayed proudly on a shelf or assembled together with a friend or loved one, this set embodies the spirit of interactive fun that defined 2025’s best hybrid entertainment gifts. Full review:
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