Toby Robot (1986)

Toby Robot is a 1986 programmable toy robot that let kids enter simple movement commands and watch it execute them on the floor. Made in an era when robots in toys meant actual mechanical movement — not just lights and sounds — Toby was genuinely interactive in a way that felt futuristic for the mid-80s.

This is a deep-cut collectible that appeals to vintage toy robot enthusiasts and 80s tech nostalgia collectors. Toby wasn't as widely distributed as brands like Tomy or Nintendo, which makes surviving units relatively scarce. Working examples generate real excitement in collector circles.

The key thing to verify is that the motor and drive mechanism still work — without movement, Toby is just a plastic shell. Check the battery compartment for corrosion and test the programmable functions if possible. Complete units with the original box and instruction sheet are genuinely rare finds.