Riley Wilkinson
Toy & Game Designer | 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.
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Professional Experience
For 30+ years, I’ve designed award-winning toys, games, activities, and brain-bending fun. My professional roles include:
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Toy and Game Designer
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Creative Director
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Product Developer
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YouTube game streamer (focused on puzzles, humor, and chaos with purpose)
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Design & Invention​
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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.
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Held two U.S. design patents.
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Co-Creator of the My Toy Pitch course with Make Art That Sells, which helps artists develop pitch-ready prototypes.
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Clients & Companies
I have designed for industry leaders, including:
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Educational Insights
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MGA Entertainment
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Maker Media
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Harlequin Children’s Educational Publishing
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Mattel Creations
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AARP
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Auzou Editions
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Skillmatics
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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.
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Recognition & Current Work
​My work has been featured in Uppercase Magazine and Communication Arts.
You’ll currently find me:
* Livestreaming puzzles and brain teasers.
* Reviewing vintage games.
* Designing merchandise.
* Rubber-stamping anything that sparks joy—or at least organized chaos.
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