20 Action Figures Every Kid Had in the 80s
The 80s were a playground where action figures turned us into superheroes, soldiers, and adventurers in the blind of an eye.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 6 min read
In the 80s, action figures were more than toys—they were gateways to new worlds. Every figure has its backstory, powers, and mission, giving us endless ways to play. Whether we were saving the planet with Optimus Prime or battling the dark side with Luke Skywalker, these 20 action figures were the key to our most imaginative childhood escapades.
1. He-Man (Masters of the Universe)
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He-Man was the hero we wanted to be. With his iconic sword and bulging muscles, he was ready to take on Skeletor in every battle. Whether battling evil or riding Battle-Car, He-Man was every 80s kid’s go-to figure for adventure.
2. G.I Joe (A Real American Hero)
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G.I Joe figures were the ultimate action figures for kids who loved military adventures. From Snake Eyes to Duke, each character had a special skill and backstory. These toys weren’t just about action—they made you feel like you were part of an elite team on a mission.
3. Transformers
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The Transformers didn’t just change form—they changed how we played with action figures. Optimus Prime was the fearless leader, while Bumblebee was the ever-charming sidekick. With the power to transform from robot to vehicle, these figures were the perfect mix of fun and imagination.
4. Star Wars Action Figures
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From Luke Skywalker to Darth Vader, Star Wars action figures let kids live out their galactic fantasies. These figures weren’t just toys but pieces of a universe that felt as big as the galaxy itself. Every figure had a role in the internal battle between the light and dark sides of the Force.
5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
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The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle brought pizza-loving, crime-fighting fun to every 80s kid’s playtime. Each turtle had a unique personality and weapon, making them perfect for team-ups or solo missions. These figures were easy favorites with their rad adventures and a mentor like Splinter.
6. Silverhawks (Quicksilver)
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Silverhawks combined the excitement of sci-fi with the thrill of a superhero. Quicksilver and his team had metal wings and were ready to soar into space to defeat evil. These figures were unique and action-packed, making them a must-have for kids who loved high-flying adventures.
7. Hot Wheels Cars
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Speed, stunts, and crashes—Hot Wheels was the perfect toy for the car enthusiast in all of us. These mini cars came in different shapes, colors, and designs, making them fun to race, collect, and display. Whether on a track or the floor, Hot Wheels brought the need for speed to playtime.
8. Stretch Armstrong
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Stretch Armstrong wasn’t your typical action figure. With its stretchy, rubbery body, this toy could be stretched and pulled to extreme lengths only to return to its original form. The appeal wasn’t just in the action but in the endless fun of seeing how far you could stretch him.
9. Robocop
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Robocop was the law in Detroit, and these action figures let kids step into his steel boots. With his excellent futuristic design and cool weaponry, Robocop was the hero every kid needed. He wasn’t just about justice—he was about kicking butt in a hi-tech, sci-fi world.
10. Super Powers (Batman, Spider-Man, etc)
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The Super Powers collection made superheroes come to life like never before. From Superman’s flying action to Batman’s crime-fighting gadgets, these figures had unique features that made them stand out. They were the action figures that helped create a generation of superhero fans.
11. Wresting Figures (WWF Superstars)
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The WWF wrestling figures turned living rooms into wrestling rings, complete with body slams and finishing moves. From Hulk Hogan to Ultimate Warrior, each figure had its signature move that made it come to life. These figures brought the excitement of the ring right into our homes.
12. Thundercats
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Lion-O led the Thundercats with his iconic Sword of Omens and never-ending courage. These action figures made us feel like we were part of the Thundercats team, fighting evil across the universe. With their feline powers and fierce loyalty, the Thundercats were always ready for action.
13. Voltron
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Voltron was more than just a toy—it was a legend. The five lion robots came together to form one giant, powerful robot that could fight evil across the universe. Each lion had its power, making this a favorite among fans who loved combining forces for ultimate action.
14. G.I Joe Cobra Commanders
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The Cobra Commanders were the perfect foil to the heroic G.I Joe team, and their action figures were just as menacing as their personalities. With their cool helmets, weapons, and evil plans, these figures brought the battle between good and evil into your hands.
15. M.A.S.K (Matt Trakker)
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M.A.S.K brought together the best of vehicles and action figures. Matt Trakker led a team of heroes who could transform their cars into armored machines. The mix of high-tech vehicles and action-packed figures made this line a favorite.
16. The Real Ghostbusters
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Who are you gonna call? Ghostbusters, of course! These figures let kids take on the role of the beloved team of paranormal investigators. With proton packs and ghost traps, every ghost is in danger of being caught.
17. The Dukes of Hazzard (Bo and Luke Duke)
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Bo and Luke Duke, the lovable cousins from the hit TV show, became action figures that made every kid feel like they were racing around Hazzard County. With their action-packed stunts and high-speed car chases, these figures were perfect for show fans. They brought the excitement of the Dukes straight into our living rooms.
18. Power Rangers (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
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The Power Rangers turned ordinary kids into heroes with colorful suits and epic battles. Each Ranger had unique weapons and fighting skills, making them a must-have for fans. With their iconic Megazord, they were ready to fight evil and save the world.
19. Battle Beasts
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Battle Beasts were small action figures that brought together animal warriors with unique powers. Each figure had its strength, allowing kids to engage in mini battles to see who would reign supreme. These tiny figures packed a big punch, turning any table into a battleground.
20. Action Force (British Action Figures)
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Action Force brought military precision and adventure to the toy aisle with figures that were as realistic as they were fun. These action-packed figures featured special units with unique gear, perfect for recreating covert missions or epic battles. Whether fighting terrorists or saving the world, Action Force figures were always ready for action.