7 Best ’80s Action Figures That We Used to Collect
via Grim2 / YouTube
The 1980s were a golden era for action figures, giving kids endless ways to imagine new adventures. From superheroes to warriors, these toys became a huge part of childhood play. Many of these action figures still hold a special place in the memories of those who collected them years ago.
1. He-Man (Masters of the Universe)
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Retro Fresh Nostalgia Toys and Collectables (@retrofreshnostalgia)
He-Man led the charge in the Masters of the Universe toy line, known for his muscular build and powerful sword. The figures included heroes, villains, and even mythical creatures, each with their own special abilities. Kids spent hours imagining battles between He-Man and his enemies like Skeletor.
The variety of characters made this toy line a hit. Each new figure added new possibilities for storytelling. The figures themselves were sturdy and well-detailed, making them favorites for collectors. He-Man’s influence on 80s action figures is still felt today, as fans continue to appreciate the imaginative world they created.
2. G.I. Joe
G.I. Joe’s Real American Hero line brought military action to toy shelves everywhere. These smaller, poseable figures were perfect for creating detailed battle scenes. Kids could collect vehicles, playsets, and different characters, each representing a part of the team or an enemy faction like Cobra.
With its detailed backstories and wide range of figures, the G.I. Joe universe felt like a world of its own. Children loved mixing and matching figures to create their own battles. The success of G.I. Joe in the 80s turned it into a cultural icon, leaving a lasting mark on action figure history.
3. Transformers
Transformers were unique because they combined vehicles with robots. Each figure could change from a car, plane, or even a cassette player into a robot character. Autobots and Decepticons became household names as kids followed their adventures through toys, TV shows, and comics.
Transforming the figures back and forth was half the fun, challenging kids to master each new model. Characters like Optimus Prime and Megatron became heroes and villains of playground stories. The blend of creativity and engineering made Transformers a favorite among collectors and kids alike.
4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures brought the popular cartoon to life. Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael each had their own weapons and unique styles. They fought alongside allies like Splinter and April O’Neil against villains such as Shredder and Bebop.
The figures had a colorful and quirky design that matched the show’s playful spirit. Kids loved collecting the turtles and their foes, creating their own stories in the battle for New York City. These figures continue to be sought after by those who grew up with the original series.
5. Star Wars
Though the Star Wars line started in the late 70s, it reached new heights in the 80s with the release of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Kids could collect their favorite characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader, as well as vehicles and playsets from the films.
Star Wars figures allowed kids to recreate epic scenes or come up with new adventures in a galaxy far, far away. The range of figures, from heroes to aliens, made it easy to build a whole world. The enduring love for these toys keeps them highly collectible even today.
6. M.A.S.K.
M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) combined the best of G.I. Joe and Transformers. The figures came with vehicles that transformed into other machines, like motorcycles that turned into helicopters. Each character wore a mask with special powers, making for endless imaginative play.
The line stood out for its innovative designs and action-packed theme. Kids loved exploring all the hidden features of each toy, turning every play session into a new adventure. While M.A.S.K. didn’t last as long as other lines, its creative approach left a mark on 80s toy culture.
7. Thundercats
Thundercats figures brought the excitement of the TV show into kids’ hands. With characters like Lion-O, Panthro, and Mumm-Ra, the figures were colorful and full of detail. Each had weapons and action features that added to the play experience, making it easy to recreate scenes from the show.
Fans of the series loved collecting their favorite characters and playing out battles between good and evil. The combination of fantasy and sci-fi made the Thundercats universe stand out. These figures remain popular among fans who still remember the excitement they brought to 80s playtime.
