The 1980s was a decade of iconic toys and collectibles, with many items still cherished by collectors today.
However, there are some rare 80s toys that have remained relatively unknown and underappreciated.
In this article, we delve into the uncharted realm of these fascinating treasures and uncover the reasons behind their rarity.
1. Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future
Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future was a short-lived TV series that aired from 1987 to 1988.
The show was ahead of its time, combining live-action with computer-generated animation.
To capitalize on the series, Mattel produced a line of action figures and vehicles.
These toys had a unique feature: they interacted with the TV show through a light gun system.
The toys are now highly sought after, given their innovative technology and the show’s cult status.
Here’s a source with more information about the show and its toys.
2. Food Fighters
In 1988, Mattel released the Food Fighters toy line, featuring anthropomorphic food items battling each other.
The series included characters such as Burgerdier General (a hamburger) and Mean Weener (a hotdog). While not as popular as other action figure lines of the time, these quirky toys have since gained a cult following.
Collectors appreciate the unique concept and creative designs, making them valuable today. Discover more about Food Fighters here.
3. Crystar Crystal Warriors
Crystar Crystal Warriors Action Figures Remco Commercial Retro Toys and Cartoonshttps://t.co/joRKfsm5bh pic.twitter.com/hY2p2SeLqN
— Retro Toys and Cartoons (@toys_retro) January 24, 2020
Crystar Crystal Warriors was a short-lived comic book series produced by Marvel Comics in the early 1980s.
The story featured the titular character Crystar and his fellow crystal warriors fighting against the evil Moltar and his lava warriors.
Remco produced a line of action figures based on the series, which, due to their limited production run, have become quite rare.
The figures are prized for their intricate crystal and lava designs, making them a must-have for dedicated collectors.
Learn more about Crystar and the toys here.
4. Computer Warriors
https://twitter.com/vicegripx/status/1550898639622402048
Mattel’s Computer Warriors was a toy line launched in 1989, featuring a group of computer programs that transformed into various household items.
The toy line aimed to capitalize on the growing popularity of computers and transforming toys at the time.
Despite the innovative concept, the series was not a commercial success and remains relatively obscure.
However, the rarity and unique transforming mechanisms make them a coveted find for collectors.
Check out this source for more information on Computer Warriors.
5. Sectaurs: Warriors of Symbion
1984 Coleco Sectaurs: Warriors of Symbion Night Fighting Dargon and Parafly action figures. pic.twitter.com/YirFG0qJOD
— Killer Toys (@reactionfigure) February 20, 2023
Sectaurs: Warriors of Symbion was a toy line produced by Coleco in the mid-80s. The series featured humanoid insect warriors living on the planet Symbion.
The action figures were known for their intricate details and unique designs, with some even featuring puppet-like hand grips to control the insect creatures’ movements.
The line also had a short-lived comic book series and an animated mini-series.
Despite its innovative concept, Sectaurs struggled to find commercial success, making the toys relatively rare and desirable among collectors today.
Explore more about Sectaurs and its history here.
6. Starcom: The U.S. Space Force
The Starcom: The U.S. Space Force toyline is underrated. pic.twitter.com/yVVNRYS5fu
— retroist (@retroist) September 27, 2018
Starcom: The U.S. Space Force was a toy line produced by Coleco in 1986 and later taken over by Mattel.
The series featured futuristic astronauts, vehicles, and playsets with magnetic action features.
Starcom toys were known for their high-quality design and advanced features, such as working elevators and motorized vehicles.
Unfortunately, the series did not achieve the same success as other space-themed toy lines, and production was discontinued after a short run.
Today, these toys are prized for their rarity and unique features. Discover more about Starcom and its toys here.
Conclusion
The 1980s was a decade filled with fascinating and innovative toys, many of which have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
While some toy lines achieved widespread success, others slipped through the cracks and are now considered hidden gems among collectors.
These rare 80s toys, with their unique concepts and designs, continue to captivate the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
I am a fun fact enthusiast and creator of Facts On Tap.
I love to share my knowledge and curiosity with readers and inspire them to learn something new every day.
When I’m not writing, I enjoy traveling, reading, and playing trivia games with my friends.
