McDonald’s is taking a trip down memory lane. The fast-food giant officially brought back its iconic “Changeables” Happy Meal toys on Tuesday. These transforming figures first debuted in the late 1980s and were a massive hit.
The 2026 collection features updated versions of the classic designs. There are 16 unique characters to collect in total. Fans can find favorites like “Teef Rex,” a Happy Meal box that becomes a dinosaur.
“Changeables were by far the most requested Happy Meal program,” said Director Guillaume Huin. The company used social media to tease the return before the January 27 launch. Each toy has its own name and personality for a new generation.
The nostalgia play isn’t the only news at the Golden Arches. McDonald’s also added several protein-focused items to the menu this week. These options are designed to meet the demand for filling, high-protein meals.
The “Hot Honey” lineup is leading the charge for breakfast and lunch. New items include a Hot Honey Sausage Egg Biscuit and a Bacon Hot Honey McCrispy. These sandwiches offer up to 34 grams of protein to fuel your day.
This menu shake-up is part of a broader “McValue” strategy. The chain hopes to attract budget-conscious shoppers and boost restaurant traffic. Rival brands are already scrambling to launch their own discount battles.
McDonald’s is also reportedly testing a new “Big Arch” burger in the U.S. This massive sandwich features two patties and a special tangy sauce. It aims to compete with premium burger offerings from other major chains.
Early reports suggest the Changeables are a hit with collectors and parents. Some complete sets have already appeared on resale sites for hundreds of dollars. The promotion is expected to run through early March at participating locations.
The company continues to lean into its “Accelerating the Arches” growth plan. This includes opening thousands of new locations and upgrading core burger recipes. For now, the focus is on a burger that turns into a robot.