As South Africa steps into summer, one thing is certain: play is back. The days are longer, the sun is brighter, school holidays are within reach, and festive excitement is beginning to simmer across the country. Whether you’re six or sixty, this is the season where curiosity, creativity and connection matter more than ever.
Solarpop, a leader in family fun and immersive play experiences, has released its official Top Toys and Games for Summer 2025 — a vibrant lineup designed to spark imagination, support learning, and bring people together across generations. From sensory play and puzzles to iconic strategy games and party favourites, this list champions hands-on joy in a world that needs it.
A Summer of Sensory Magic and Creative Making
Taking centre stage this year are the wildly popular Dr Squish Putties and Slime Maker Kit. Perfect for sensory seekers, these squishy, stretchy creations offer a calming kind of chaos — the kind kids adore. They swirl, stretch, and customise slime in ways that are both soothing and endlessly entertaining, making them ideal for solo relaxation or group fun.
For the little inventors, engineers and pretend-play enthusiasts, Tool Buddy earns its spot as a must-have. Built for ages 3+, this colourful set of safe tools encourages creative building, problem-solving and imaginative role play. It’s a playful introduction to practical skills that helps young minds explore how things work.
Quiet Moments, Big Thinking
Solarpop’s list also honours the beauty of calmer, mindful play.
Trefl Puzzles continue to win hearts with their vibrant imagery and wide range of difficulty levels, offering peaceful, screen-free entertainment for families and individuals alike. They’re a reminder that slowing down can be just as rewarding as high-energy fun.
For preschoolers, the First 100 matching card games make early learning irresistible. Kids learn animal names, words, and letters through memory-building and matching instead of traditional “teaching” — making the journey playful, intuitive and joyful.
Timeless Classics That Bring Generations Together
Some games never fade — and Solarpop puts those front and centre too.
Classic Games such as chess, backgammon and Chinese checkers remain staples in South African homes. They’re cross-generational, strategic, social, and endlessly replayable. These are the games that spark conversation, sharpen thinking and remind families what togetherness feels like.
And for those who live for competition, collecting, and strategy?
Trading Card Games — including Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh! — continue to dominate for tweens, teens and adults. They’re more than cards; they’re worlds of storytelling, memory-making and friendships forged across the table.
Fast Games, Big Laughs and Unforgettable Moments
Summer is also about energy, laughter and movement — and Solarpop knows it.
Spot It! brings fast-paced matching and quick reflexes to any setting. Easy to learn and impossible to put down, it’s perfect for travel, beach trips or braais.
Meanwhile, the clever, memory-driven Trio challenges players to recall what’s been shown and outsmart others to collect groups of three. It’s simple, strategic and dangerously addictive for all ages.
And for party lovers?
Vibr’Action is pure comedic chaos — full of gestures, movement and silliness that gets everyone on their feet. Whether you’re hosting a year-end celebration or a family get-together, this game steals the spotlight every time.
The Modern Giant That Still Leads the Pack
No Solarpop summer list would be complete without Catan — the modern classic known for reshaping family gaming. With its blend of resource strategy, negotiation and endless replayability, it remains a top choice for weekend gatherings, holidays and competitive family nights.
Why These Picks Matter
“These toys and games offer more than entertainment; they support creativity, learning, and human connection,” says Philip Galliford, spokesperson for Solarpop. “From toddlers discovering puzzles to teens building decks, these are the kinds of experiences that make summer memorable.”
This year’s curated list is more than a guide — it’s an invitation.
An invitation to explore, imagine, build, think, compete, laugh and connect.
Whether you’re shopping for tiny builders, budding thinkers, card-collecting strategists or energetic party starters, Solarpop’s Summer 2025 lineup promises a season of colour, curiosity and pure play.
