🎞️ Overwhelming Memories: The Top 10 Animated Treasures of the 1980s
Oh, the 1980s — the heyday of Saturday morning cartoons, neon leg warmers, Walkmans, and sugary breakfast cereals. The 1980s produced some of the most recognizable animated series to ever appear on television, whether you were rushing to the TV in your pajamas or recording your favorites on VHS.
Let’s go back in time and rewatch ten animated masterpieces that shaped a generation and are still ingrained in our collective consciousness.
10. M.A.S.K. (1985–1986)
The animated television show M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) ran from 1985 to 1986. Inspired by Kenner’s M.A.S.K. action figures, he show was produced by DIC Enterprises and ICC TV Productions Ltd. Matt Trakker, the leader of a special task force that used transforming armored vehicles to fight the criminal organization V.E.N.O.M. (Vicious Evil Network of Mayhem), was the subject of the television series. Both sides’ characters wore “masks ” or superpowered helmets that gave them special powers.
The show was a cross between popular 1980s cartoons like Transformers and G.I. Joe, combining elements of science fiction and action-adventure. The focus on advanced vehicles and espionage-style missions made M.A.S.K. stand out. The two seasons of the show ran for a total of 75 episodes and were animated in Japan by K.K. DiC Asia Studio World and Ashi Productions. Notably, it was among the first closed-captioned shows to be broadcast in first-run syndication.
🔵 9. The Smurfs (1981–1989)
From 1981 until 1989, the animated television series The Smurfs was broadcast. The show, which was produced by Hanna-Barbera Productions, was based on the Belgian comic series that Peyo created. It chronicled the exploits of little blue beings known as Smurfs who resided in houses shaped like mushrooms in a tranquil forest. The Smurfs, led by the sage Papa Smurf, frequently found themselves foiling the cunning schemes of Gargamel, a malevolent sorcerer who attempted to kidnap them.
⚡ 8. Thundercats (1985–1989)
When an elite group of humanoid cats crashes on Third Earth they use both futuristic technology and ancient magic to battle evil.
Cheetara running at Mach speed, epic battle, and the sword of Omens were the reasons it ruled. Both the lore and the animation were far ahead of their time.
🕵️ 7. Inspector Gadget (1983–1986)
He was making mistakes. He was awkward. But somehow with his endless devices and extendable limbs Inspector Gadget always came through.
The epic theme song, the slapstick humor, and the true MVPs, Penny and Brai, were the reasons it won.
A Cinematic Spell
🦁 6. Voltron (1984–1985)
Five pilots. Five lion robots. One enormous interstellar guardian. The animated mech battle we were unaware we needed was called Voltron.
It’s a space battle, es cooperation, and the spectacular moment when the lions formed Voltron was the reason it ruled.
🍕 5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987–1996)
Five pilots. Five robot lions. One giant interstellar protector. Voltron was the animated mech battle we didn’t realize we needed.
It ruled because it cooperated in space battles, and the amazing moment the lions formed Voltron.
🌈 4. Rainbow Brite (1984–1986)
Equipped with her Color Belt and a horse named Starlite, Rainbow Brite battled the gloom and brightened the world.
Colorful worlds, upbeat vibe, and a heroine who could brighten even the gloomiest days were the reasons it reigned.
⚔️ 3. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983–1985)
To protect Eternia from Skeletor and his malevolent crew, Prince Adam changed into He-Man with a single swing of his sword.
The Reason It Decided: Magic muscles and one of the most recognizable slogans ever: “I have the power!”
🎤 2. Jem and the Holograms (1985–1988)
With the aid of a holographic computer called Synergy, Jem led a double life as a rock star and superhero. It combined girl power, gla, and glitter.
Why It Won: Every episode featured a music video, there were intense fashion competitions, and the Misfits caused mayhem.
DPV NATION
🤖 1. Transformers (1984–1987)
Robots that operate automatically. Decepticons. Disguised robots. This series permanently changed childhoods and toys alike.
The voice of Optimus Prime explains why it ruled. Megatron’s plans. The 1986 film’s emotional trauma (you understand what I mean).
💾 Honorable Mentions:
- DuckTales (1987–1990): Fantastic! Join Scrooge McDuck and the gang for wealth and adventure.
- G.I. Joe: An Actual American Hero. Half the fight was already won.
- He-Man’s sister, She-Ra: Princess of Power, added her fierce flair.
- Who are you going to call? The Real Ghostbusters?
The first emotional ambassadors were Care Bears.
💬 Final Thoughts
The 1980s were a whole era, ot just a decade. These cartoons were educational as well as entertaining. They gave us lessons in courage, camaraderie, cooperation, and occasionally, how to be heroes in our little ways.
