Buying guide for Best Jurassic World Toys

In 1977, Star Wars not only changed how movies were made, but its success also set off a new lucrative industry of licensed toys. Fans of all ages were eager to play with and collect action figures and all sorts of products related to the Star Wars. Since then, movie studios and franchises, particularly sci-fi and action blockbusters, have produced dolls, board games, plushies, and a slew of fun collectibles for fans to embrace.

Jurassic Park debuted in 1993, and instantly viewers young and old were eager to learn about dinosaurs, with many seeking to acquire toys inspired by the film. The success led to a franchise, with two more installments and later a rebooting of sorts in the form of a new trilogy known as Jurassic World.

Jurassic World led to toys made for all ages, from the very young to perhaps simply the young at heart. They feature both the human heroes and villains of the franchise, as well as the unforgettable dinosaurs. Some are more for decoration or casual viewing, while others allow for creative interaction and scene building. Finding the best Jurassic World toy — or toys — will depend on age, interests, and quality.

Between the ages of two and six, many kids develop an intense interest in a specific topic, boosting attention, information processing, and motivation. As many parents can attest, dinosaurs are a common subject for that intense focus.

Key considerations

Toy type

The word “toy” encompasses many possibilities, so it’s best to narrow down your shopping approach. These are some of the main options available when searching for a Jurassic World toy.

• Action figure: Perhaps the most popular type of toy, action figures or dolls range in sizes and offer kids a chance to interact and create scenes with other toys. Dinosaur action figures are especially beloved, with options including raptors, pterodactyls and the beloved Brachiosaurus.
• Plush: These toys are more sought after for their aesthetic and comfort than they are for interactive play. Plush toys typically feature dinosaurs and are offered in a variety of sizes. Kids may play with them, but they tend to be softer and better to cuddle up with and display than use in a play battle.
• Games: A broad category, there are plenty from which to choose for those who want to compete or cooperate with others in a Jurassic World game. There is simple fare that simply involves cards, as well as more elaborate tabletop options. Some popular games, like Monopoly or Uno, have their own Jurassic Park versions. There are also Jurassic World video games for those who like to play in the virtual realm.

Age range

The popularity of Jurassic Park and its subsequent films is due in part to its appeal to a vast age range of people. Although the films are rated PG-13, many younger kids naturally adore the beauty and terror of dinosaurs. With plenty of action and unforgettable characters, adults love the films too. And since it’s been more than 25 years since the first movie came out, there are certainly those who watched the film as a teen and now have families and kids of their own with whom to share the experience.

As such, you’ll find toys for tots and toddlers as well as for adolescents and teens. Some more decorative toys might be intended more for adults, and there is a variety of games that will appeal to all ages. Most toys will note either a recommended age range or a minimum age.

Among the growing Jurassic World universe is the more kid-friendly Camp Cretaceous, an animated Netflix series that has so far run for three seasons and tells the story of a group of teens left behind on the dinosaur-inhabited island.

Features

Notable brands

There are a few popular toy companies that make Jurassic World products through established licenses. Fans of Jurassic World and these companies may enjoy the synergy of such products.

• LEGO: The famed toymaker features a variety of sets inspired by Jurassic World, which include both dinosaurs and human “minifigures.” Most of these sets comprise between 100 and 300 pieces, though there are a handful of large sets that are more involved builds. LEGO Jurassic World toys cater to kids as young as four as well as teens and adults.
• Imaginext: This system of role-playing toys Fisher-Price offers kids ages three and up toys that they can play with individually or incorporate into a larger universe. The toys feature moving parts and accessories but are both large and soft enough that they are safe for little ones.
• Funko: The beloved collectibles company offers plenty of Pop! toys, including both dinosaurs and humans inspired directly from the films. Fans may be drawn to a John Hammond figurine from the original, or opt for Claire from the newer installments. A T-rex, dilophosaurus and raptor are also available, as is a shirtless Ian Malcolm inspired by one of the more memorable Jeff Goldblum scenes from the first movie.
• Power Wheels: For more adventurous youngsters, Power Wheels offers a child-size Jeep inspired by the first film. It features doors that open, working lights, and, of course, dinosaur sounds. The vehicle seats two kids ages three to seven and can reach 5 mph, thanks to its 12-volt battery.
• Transformers: Available toward the end of 2021 is a unique line resulting from a collaboration with Hasbro. It features a Jurassic Jeep, which in this case transforms into an Autobot, as well as a Tyrannosaurus rex/Decepticon toy.

Electronics 

Some Jurassic World toys require battery power in order to move or make sounds. These options offer a bit more interactivity for kids, especially when playing by themselves. Some dinosaur toys may walk on their own or roar, and others can be controlled by a remote.

Jurassic World toys prices

Inexpensive

For under $20, you’ll find a variety of action figures, dolls, and plushies inspired by Jurassic World. These will also include some Funko Pop! Vinyls and small LEGO sets.

Mid-range

Most Jurassic World toys cost between $20 and $50, a price point that will include toys, series, and sets that are generally larger and more interactive. Expect to find medium-size LEGO sets and some more popular Funko Vinyls.

Expensive

For over $50, large LEGO sets and rare Funko Vinyls can be had, as well as the largest and best-made dinosaur figures.

The next film, scheduled for 2022, surely won’t be the end of the franchise. There is talk of a live-action TV series and, of course, more films to come.

Tips

• Clean regularly. Toys can get dirty in a hurry. Washing them regularly is imperative, particularly when kids are playing outside or with others. Most can be simply wiped with a solution of gentle soap and warm water.
• Stay organized. Investing in a storage bin or display shelf is useful for keeping toys safe and rooms clean. For young ones, owning toys can be a lesson in caretaking and responsibility.
• Keep it real. Popular franchises inspire counterfeiters to make a quick buck selling unlicensed, subpar toys and games. Watch out for knockoff brands and toys, especially if you’re buying online — they may not look, sound and move as they are advertised.
• Donate old toys. While some Jurassic World games and figurines are timeless, others may no longer be of interest to kids as they grow. Donate old toys to charities or other local groups in need.

Amazon is one of many outlets where Jurassic World toys can be found. However, some dinosaur figurines, including the aquatic Mosasaurus, are Amazon exclusives and not sold elsewhere.

FAQ

Q. Are the Jurassic World films appropriate for kids?

A. The three original Jurassic Park films and the three later Jurassic World films are all rated PG-13, notably for intense action sequences and peril. There are frequently humans attacked or eaten by dinosaurs, and while these scenes can be violent, there is typically no blood involved. There is no sex or nudity in the films and little foul language. Because these films feature dinosaurs, however, kids flock to see them with their parents and don’t get too scared.

Q. Are Jurassic World toys educational?

A. Some toys aid in the teaching of coordination and dexterity, particularly those that involve building, such as LEGO sets. Like any toy, children may learn responsibility, sharing, and creativity when playing. Jurassic World toys may inspire kids to research dinosaurs and understand the ancient world in which they lived. Or they could be used perhaps to foster an interest in fields like paleontology, zoology, biology, philosophy, and even mathematics.

Kids may also be interested to read the story on which the first film is based. Jurassic Park was written by Michael Crichton and published in 1990. While the book is more suitable for teens as it features more violence and adult language than the movie, a junior novelization of the film may be a good read for younger kids.

Q. When do new Jurassic World toys come out?

A. You can expect new toys to come out months before the latest film or TV installment in the series. Jurassic World: Dominion is slated to arrive in theatres in June 2022, which means new toys inspired by the film will likely be released in early 2022.

Toys typically allude to something novel or previously unknown in the films, which means that taking a look at the new toy releases may get fans excited about what they’ll see onscreen. Conversely,  though, some studios may delay the release of certain toys until after the film has premiered so as not to spoil any surprises or plot details.