10 Toys That Sparked Legal Battles
This list reveals how some of the most popular toys became the center of intense legal disputes that reached courtrooms.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
These toys may look fun and harmless, but some ended up sparking major legal fights. The battles ranged from accusations of stolen designs to safety concerns and counterfeit claims. Each case shows that even in the toy industry, competition can turn into a serious courtroom showdown.
1. Sylvanian Families vs. TikTok Creator
Sylvanian Families France on Wikimedia Commons
Sylvanian Families are known for their wholesome miniature worlds, but one TikTok creator gave them a dark, satirical twist. The brand’s parent company, Epoch, claimed these videos damaged their family-friendly image and took legal action. The dispute raised questions about how far fan-made content can go before it crosses into infringement.
2. Squishmallows vs. Build-A-Bear (Skoosherz)
Squishmallows on Wikimedia Commons
Squishmallows have become a cultural sensation, loved for their soft textures and cute faces. When Build-A-Bear launched its Skoosherz line, Squishmallows’ maker claimed the similarities were too close to ignore. The case shows how popular designs can quickly become the subject of heated intellectual property battles.
3. Bratz vs. Mattel
Carter Bryant, MGA Entertainment on Wikimedia Commons
The Bratz dolls shook up the fashion doll market with bold styles and unique personalities. Mattel argued that the concept was developed by a designer while still under their employment, sparking a massive legal fight. Years of court rulings and appeals turned this into one of the most famous toy industry lawsuits.
4. Lego vs. Tyco / Mega Bloks
The Lego Group on Wikimedia Commons
Lego built its empire on interlocking bricks, but competitors like Tyco and Mega Bloks began producing similar designs. Lego fought to protect its product, claiming infringement on both its look and branding. The courts’ mixed rulings changed how toy companies approach patent and trademark protection.
5. Cabbage Patch Kids Controversies
Appalachian Artworks, Inc on Wikimedia Commons
Cabbage Patch Kids became one of the most in-demand toys of the 1980s, but success brought conflict. The dolls’ creator accused a toy company of copying her original design, leading to a messy legal case. Licensing disputes over the brand’s expansion into other products only added to the tension.
6. BuckyBalls Magnet Toys Lawsuit
Visitor7 on Wikimedia Commons
BuckyBalls were marketed as desk toys for adults, but their tiny magnetic pieces caused serious injuries when swallowed. Safety regulators sued the company, demanding a recall and warning about the risks. The case became a cautionary tale about the balance between innovation and consumer safety.
7. Clacker Balls Federal Hazards Case
Amuzujoe on Wikimedia Commons
Clacker balls were a simple toy made of two acrylic balls on a string, but they caused more harm than fun. The U.S. government sued to have them removed from the market due to the risk of shattering and injury. The legal battle became a memorable example of how quickly a trend can be stopped by safety concerns.
8. OMG Girlz vs. MGA Entertainment
Cube Entertainment on Wikimedia Commons
The music group OMG Girlz claimed that a line of dolls by MGA Entertainment copied their likeness and style without permission. The jury agreed, awarding the group a massive payout for infringement. This case shows how celebrity image rights can collide with the toy industry.
9. Hasbro vs. Inventor of Connect-4 Variants
Hasbro on Pexels
A game inventor accused Hasbro of taking his board game concepts and producing them without credit or payment. The legal fight highlighted the challenges independent creators face when working with major toy companies. It also underscored the importance of contracts and clear ownership agreements in the gaming world.
10. Pop Mart vs. 7-Eleven (Labubu Dolls)
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
Pop Mart’s collectible Labubu dolls have a dedicated fanbase and high resale value. When counterfeit versions appeared at 7-Eleven stores, the company took legal action to protect its brand. The case reflects the growing market for collectible toys and the fierce measures companies take to guard them.