TIME's Best Inventions of 2008

Toys

Disney Ultimate WALL•E
The resilient recycling robot from the hit summer flick lives on as a 16-in.-tall (41 cm) remote-controlled toy. He can dance to music, give you those sad eyes when he's blue and use his infrared sensors to steer clear of obstacles. If only he'd take out the trash ...
Price:$190
More info: Disney Ultimate WALLE

WowWee Alive Lion Cub
Who says stuffed animals are nothing but fluff? This plush lion will meow and wink for attention, snarl when you rub him the wrong way, and snore contentedly when held gently in the arms of kids ages 3 and up. It's a great way to start teaching tots how to treat animals with care — and why yanking on their tails is a bad idea.
Price:$59
More info: wowweealivecubs.com

Mattel Stylin' Studio
Instead of raiding Mom's closet and makeup stash, tween girls can try out new eye shadow, hairdos, hats and more using this PC-compatible drawing board with a built-in camera. Warning: after perfecting their virtual makeover, they may beg for a real one.
Price:$60
More info: Mattel Stylin' Studio