Pogs: The Ultimate 90s Playground Game

A Surprising Origin

Pogs originated in Hawaii, where they were initially bottle caps from Passion Orange Guava (P.O.G.) juice bottles. The game was popularized in the early 90s by a teacher who used it as an educational tool. Soon, the concept exploded in popularity, crossing oceans to become a global craze.

A Simple Yet Addictive Concept

The mechanics of the game are easy to grasp:

• Players stack a set number of Pogs face down.

• Each takes turns using a Slammer (a heavier plastic or metal disc) to hit the pile.

• The flipped Pogs belong to the player, and the one who collects the most wins.

This simplicity, combined with the endless variety of designs and collectible series, fueled the massive appeal of Pogs.

A Worldwide Phenomenon

At the height of their success, Pogs were everywhere: in schools, toy stores, and even fast-food chains offering exclusive editions. Major brands and franchises joined in, creating collectible series based on movies, TV shows, and video games.

A Nostalgic Comeback

While the craze faded by the late 90s, Pogs remain a cherished memory. Today, they are experiencing a nostalgic revival, with collectors bringing the game back to life. Some tournaments and limited edition releases have resurfaced, proving that the Pogs phenomenon never truly disappeared.