Toys of the Occult

Though tarot decks were originally intended for card play, they became associated with magic and mysticism in the late 18th century. Like conventional playing cards, the tarot has four suits and a separate 21-card trump suit, as well as a single card known as "The Fool."

Magic kits like this one are a quick and easy way for youngsters to channel their inner Harry Houdini, undoubtedly the world's most well-known magician. Some common tricks or illusions include making an object disappear, transforming one object into another and sawing someone in half.

Produced by Hasbro since 1967, the Ouija board uses letters, numbers and symbols to seemingly communicate with spirits. Similar versions of the now ubiquitous board game have reportedly existed since 1100 B.C.

The series of seven fantasy novels by British author J.K. Rowling has inspired a yet-to-be opened theme park and countless toys and games, including "magic wands." Some critics say the series promotes witchcraft.

Folk magicians or voodoo practitioners believe piercing a doll is a way to inflict pain on an enemy or cast a spell upon someone. The exact origin of the ritual is unclear.