Riley Wilkinson
Toy & Game Inventor + Creative Director
Let's pretend we're working. (But I’ve actually been doing this professionally for three decades.) Hi, I’m Riley Wilkinson. I create delightful distractions for clever grown-ups, families, and anyone who’s ever stared longingly at a fresh pack of file folders. I blend toy expertise with humor and a refusal to take beige adulthood too seriously.
My Career
For 30+ years, I’ve designed award-winning toys, games, activities, and brain-bending fun. My professional roles include Toy and Game Designer, Creative Director, Product Developer, and YouTube game streamer (focused on puzzles, humor, and chaos with purpose). I currently teach a toy and game illustration course: Character Play through Make Art That Sells.
Clients + Companies
I have designed for industry leaders, including:
Mattel Creations
AARP
Auzou Editions
Skillmatics
Educational Insights
MGA Entertainment
Learning Resources
Maker Media
Lakeshore Learning
Harlequin Children’s Educational Publishing
Design + Invention
Inventor of The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game: A preschool classic that has sold over two million copies, garnered 10,000+ five-star reviews, and led to a whole franchise of games and board books.
Hold two U.S. design patents for the Elapsed Time Clock and Spinzone Classroom Spinners.
Co-Creator of the My Toy Pitch course with Make Art That Sells, which helps artists develop pitch-ready prototypes.
Brain Training
After a traumatic brain injury, I turned to playing puzzles and brain teasers like Kanoodle to rebuild focus, memory, and cognitive function. My current work in streaming and reviewing games is proof that games rooted in spatial reasoning and critical thinking can actively contribute to neuroplasticity and mental wellness. Brain training doesn't have to be boring—it can be competitive, collaborative, and actually fun.
Press + Awards
My work has been featured in Uppercase Magazine, Good Housekeeping, USA Today, Redbook, and Communication Arts. Product awards include Toy of the Year finalist, Parents' Choice silver and gold, a NAPPA award, Dr. Toy's 100 Best winner, the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio gold seal, and Creative Child Magazine's Creative Child Award.
