Reliving the Glory Days of 80s Rambo Action Figures
Okay, it's time to dig into the attic and find those old storage boxes with toys of 80s-past, because we're about to embark on a nostalgic journey that will make your inner child do cartwheels!
That's right, we're talking about the one and only Rambo toys – the ultimate playtime companions that turned every 80s kid into a backyard action hero.
Remember when Sylvester Stallone's Rambo wasn't just a movie icon but also your go-to playmate? These action-packed toys allowed us to bring the excitement of the silver screen right into our own living rooms. From ultra-cool action figures to playsets that made your jaw drop, Rambo toys were the stuff of legends.
So, put on your best bandana, snarl your upper lip, and get ready to channel your inner Stallone as we explore the most unforgettable Rambo toys that defined a generation. Trust us, this trip down memory lane is going to be a wild ride – (filled with plastic muscles, imaginary explosions, and a whole lot of nostalgia!)
Plastic Pals with Attitude!
Let’s face it – no self-respecting kid's collection was complete without a squad of these muscle-bound warriors ready to take on any challenge.
Coleco's main line of Rambo toys in the 80s was based on the "Rambo: The Force of Freedom" animated series, developed to promote the toy line through 22-minute episodes.
This series introduced John Rambo leading a special unit called "The Force of Freedom" to combat the terrorist organization S.A.V.A.G.E. Despite the controversies surrounding its adaptation from an R-rated film to a children's series, it produced a significant number of episodes and characters that were transformed into action figures and playsets.
Coleco produced a variety of action figures, vehicles, and playsets related to the series. You may even have a few packed away from those days – notable action figures such as main character Rambo, Colonel Trautman, Turbo, K.A.T., White Dragon, General Warhawk, Sergeant Havoc, Gripper, Mad Dog, Nomad, and Black Dragon.
But the action figures were only part of the fun. The vehicles and playsets included featured items like the Defender 6x6 Assault Vehicle, Skyfire Assault Copter, Skywolf Assault Jet, and the S.A.V.A.G.E. Strike Cycle.
The S.A.V.A.G.E. Strike Headquarters playset was another popular set, coming with detailed instructions and numerous parts for assembly, reflecting the depth Coleco invested in this line.
A Jump From The Rated R to The Kids' Toy Aisle
What’s probably most fascinating about the Rambo 80s toy phenomenon is that it followed the release of the first and most violent Rambo movie, First Blood (1982).
The popularity of these toys was closely tied to the animated series, which managed to capture young viewers' imaginations despite the debates over the appropriateness of adapting such a character and storyline for children. The animated series featured voice work from notable actors and utilized music from the Rambo films, further cementing its place in 80s pop culture.
Part of the toy’s success can be attributed to the G.I. Joe brand, which had already established itself as a popular line of action figures aimed at boys. As a result, many Rambo toys were essentially rebranded G.I. Joes with slight modifications to fit the Rambo theme.
While many may question Coleco's decision to market toys based on a violent movie franchise to children, it was a strategy that paid off. By tapping into the popularity of both the movies and animated series, they were able to reach a wider audience and expand their market beyond just young boys.
A Rambo Resurgence?
After its initial run, the toy line saw a limited second series production before being discontinued. Today, these Rambo toys are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch high prices online.
In recent years, with the rise of nostalgia for 80s pop culture, there has been a resurgence in interest in the Rambo toy line.
Many fans who grew up playing with these action figures are now adults with disposable income willing to pay top dollar to relive their childhood memories. And the recent release of newer Rambo films has caused a renewed interest in the franchise, creating a new generation of fans who are also eager to get their hands on these vintage toys.
Browse online marketplaces, and collectors share stories and photos of their prized Rambo toy collections. Some even go as far as to customize and restore damaged pieces, adding to the value and rarity of these toys. The original packaging for the Rambo line is also highly sought after, with some collectors willing to pay hundreds of dollars for a mint-condition box.
Do You Still Have Rambo Toys?
The Rambo toy line was sure one to remember – and we’ve got a few stashed away in our attic (albeit, with a few missing pieces). If you still have any Rambo toys lying around, now is the time to dust them off and see if they’re worth anything. Who knows, you may have a rare edition that could fetch a high price on the collector’s market.
Which was your favorite Rambo toy? Do you still have some? Any fun stories from your early days of Rambomania? Share with us in the forum, and let’s keep the memories of this iconic toy line alive.
