Classic toys "set to do well" over Christmas

LONDON (Reuters Life!) - Variations of classic toys like Monopoly and Lego are likely to be best sellers in Britain this Christmas, as cost-conscious parents seek out trusted brands, an industry body predicted on Wednesday.

"People are being more cautious with their spending," said Gary Grant, chairman of the Toy Retailers Association.

"People are saying 'I don't want something that is a quick fad, I want something that is going to last -- I want something that I can trust that is good value.'"

The industry's official prediction of the 12 Christmas best-sellers includes Hasbro's "Monopoly City," a modern version of the family favorite which allows players to build a 3D city on the center of the board, and Danish toymaker Lego's "Minotaurus" game, in which players guide their character through a Lego labyrinth.

Hasbro's "Transformers Movie 2 Voyager figures" and Flair's "Sylvanian Families Caravan" are also on the list, which the industry group compiles based on past experience, what consumers are requesting and the latest trends in new products.

But their "dream dozen" -- which only features toys priced under 50 pounds ($82) -- is not lacking in modern gadgets, also including V-Tech's "Kidizoom Multimedia Digital Camera," a child-friendly digital camera which has built-in games.

Animals and dolls dominate the girls list, with Mattel's "Barbie and the three Musketeers Corinne doll" competing against Character Group's "Go Go Pets Hamsters" and Corinthian's "Pony in my Pocket Pony Arena" for a spot under the Christmas tree.

Cars and battle lead the boys' list with Mega Brand's "Battle Strikers Starter set," Flair's "GX Racers Tightrope Terror" and Character's "H.M. Armed Forces Tank" all tipped for success.

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