Evel Knievel by Ideal Toys (1973)
Ah, the Evel Knievel action figure, catapulting straight out of 1973 into the heart of nostalgia! This wasn’t just any toy; it was the embodiment of America’s most electrifying stuntman, wrapped in his iconic red, white, and blue. Evel was the daredevil of the living room, leaping over meticulously lined-up Hot Wheels, much to my mum’s dismay. The thrill of winding up the launch mechanism, the anticipation of the leap, and the inevitable sprawl across the carpet – pure adrenaline! Despite the tumbles, Evel’s spirit of resilience was undying, making this action figure a beloved relic of courage and endless adventure.
Shogun Warriors by Mattel (1976)
Then came the Shogun Warriors in 1976, giant sentinels that introduced me to the majestic world of Japanese robots. More than mere action figures, these two-foot titans stood as the champions of my childhood room, their missile-firing hands transforming my space into a cosmic battleground. Their dents and scratches were not mere marks but medals of honor from countless battles. The Shogun Warriors were not just toys; they were my entry into a universe where every playtime was an epic tale.
Star Wars by Kenner (1977)
The arrival of Star Wars action figures in 1977 changed the game. These weren’t just toys; they were a phenomenon that brought the magic of the galaxy into our homes. Every figure, from Luke Skywalker to the humblest Jawa, played a pivotal role in reenacting beloved scenes and crafting new adventures. Their intricate detail and the excitement of collecting them transformed these figures into treasures, bridging the gap to a universe far, far away, and igniting a lifelong passion for storytelling.
Mego Action Figures (1970s)
Mego’s action figures were the portals to countless realms, offering everything from superheroes to TV icons right in our hands. Owning a Batman or Captain Kirk meant more than play; it meant crafting new adventures beyond the screen. The detail and quality of these figures made them stand out, opening up a world of fandom and storytelling that was both vast and deeply personal.
Stretch Armstrong by Kenner (1976)
Stretch Armstrong, launched into the limelight in 1976, was the stretchy, slightly grotesque hero we didn’t know we needed. His gel-filled body could withstand and rebound from the most imaginative of tortures, embodying a simple yet profound form of play. Stretch wasn’t just a toy; he was a lesson in resilience, a beacon of the boundless potential of imagination.
Big Jim by Mattel (1972)
Big Jim, stepping out in 1972, was the action figure for adventurers at heart, eschewing the fantastical for the thrill of the great outdoors. Big Jim and his crew championed exploration, sportsmanship, and the simple joys of backyard adventures. These figures were more than toys; they were reminders of the adventures that lie in the real world, waiting to be explored.
The Six Million Dollar Man by Kenner (1975)
The Six Million Dollar Man action figure, debuting in 1975, brought home the thrill of being Steve Austin – astronaut, American hero, and bionic man. This toy was revolutionary, offering enhanced vision through a bionic eye and super strength via a bionic arm. It wasn’t just play; it was an immersive experience into a narrative of strength and resilience, making every accessory a coveted piece of the adventure.
Read more on the Six Million Dollar Man figure toy line
G.I. Joe Adventure Team by Hasbro (1970)
The G.I. Joe Adventure Team called us to action in the early ’70s, each figure coming with its own backstory and mission, sparking endless scenarios of intrigue and exploration. This collection wasn’t just about figures; it was about stories that promoted diversity, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose, enriching the tapestry of play with tales of unity and adventure.
Micronauts by Mego (1976)
Micronauts, emerging in 1976, introduced the fascinating concept of the microverse, a realm filled with futuristic warriors and vehicles. Their modular design allowed for unprecedented customization, embodying the limitless possibilities of imagination and play. Collecting Micronauts was like holding the future, a bold exploration of space and innovation.
Weebles by Hasbro (1971)
Weebles, the indefatigable figures of 1971, brought a simple yet profound joy to play. Their relentless resilience – “Weebles wobble, but they don’t fall down” – was more than a slogan; it was a lesson in perseverance. From haunted houses to cozy cottages, Weebles invited us into a world of imagination, their unique charm turning every playset into a storybook of adventures.
These toys were more than mere playthings; they were the companions of our childhood, each carrying a story, a memory, and a lesson. Stepping back into the 1970s with these action figures is more than a journey through nostalgia; it’s a reminder of the timeless joy and imagination they inspired.