In the 1980s, the world of animation was a wild and wonderful place, filled with absurd premises and imaginative storytelling. Despite the passage of time, many of these forgotten cartoons from the '80s still hold up today, offering a delightful blend of action, adventure, and nostalgia. Here's a closer look at some of the best ones that are worth revisiting:
Dino-Riders
Hanna-Barbera Productions
This action-packed adventure series from 1988 features dinosaurs with laser cannons on their heads. A group of peaceful Valorians time-travel back to prehistoric Earth and befriend the dinosaurs, who are enslaved by the evil Rulons. It's a fun, over-the-top ride that embraces its absurdity, offering a unique blend of prehistoric adventure and laser-cannon-toting dinosaurs. While it may not have been meant for adults, it's a thrilling experience for kids and anyone who appreciates a good dose of '80s absurdity.
SilverHawks
Rankin/Bass Productions
Another space-themed adventure, "SilverHawks" follows a team of humans with cybernetic implants who travel the galaxy battling the villainous MonStar. With a mix of humor and action, this series is a delightful '80s cartoon that pays homage to the era's iconic shows like "ThunderCats". The fast-paced storytelling and unique character designs make it a fun watch, especially for younger audiences who enjoy a good dose of '80s silliness.
Denver, the Last Dinosaur
World Events Productions
This animated adventure follows a group of California teens who stumble upon a dinosaur egg that hatches into Denver, a guitar-loving lizard. With a catchy theme song and a charming lead character, this show is a lighthearted time capsule of '80s culture. Denver's adventures are filled with fun, friendship, and easy-to-digest messages, making it a perfect choice for families seeking wholesome entertainment.
Challenge of the GoBots
Hanna-Barbera Productions
Based on the popular transforming robot toy line, "Challenge of the GoBots" is an action-packed extravaganza. It follows a group of heroic robots who arrive on Earth to protect humanity from the evil Renegades. Despite its limited animation, the series offers a surprisingly engaging central conflict and unique character designs. It's a fun watch for kids and older audiences alike, providing a different perspective on the '80s robot adventure genre.
Adventures of the Gummi Bears
Walt Disney Television Animation
With a catchy theme song and expressive characters, "Gummi Bears" is a playful adventure series. Set in the medieval kingdom of Dunwyn, the show follows a group of bouncy bears who protect the kingdom from the sneering Duke Igthorn. Disney's attention to detail in animation and storytelling makes this a delightful watch, offering a magical world that feels a tad more special than your typical cartoon.
Snorks
Hanna-Barbera Productions
A whimsical and colorful adventure, "Snorks" is a knockoff of "The Smurfs" but with its own unique identity. Set in the ocean world of Snorkland, the show follows a group of round-faced creatures who embrace technology and deal with teenage issues. It's a breezy and enjoyable watch, perfect for youngsters looking for a whimsical adventure.
Heathcliff
DIC Enterprises
A mischievous tabby cat named Heathcliff keeps the neighborhood on its toes with his energetic antics. While it may have been overshadowed by Garfield, Heathcliff offers a different perspective on the feline experience. With a motley crew of rascally street cats, this show is a fun and funky adventure that deserves more recognition.
The New Adventures of Johnny Quest
Hanna-Barbera Productions
A more mature take on the original series, "The New Adventures of Johnny Quest" follows the titular adventurer as he travels the globe with his scientist father and best friend. With a grittier tone and a mix of Indiana Jones and James Bond influences, this show is a smart and cinematic cartoon that stands out among its contemporaries.
Macron 1
Harmony Gold USA
A high-tech action series that combines two unrelated anime, "Macron 1" follows a team of elite pilots as they reclaim Earth from the tyrannical Emperor Darkstar. With endless dogfights and giant robot battles, this show is a thrilling ride that satisfies anyone craving '80s robot adventure. While it may not reach the heights of 'Voltron' or 'Robotech', it's still a slam-bang adventure.
M.A.S.K.
DIC Enterprises
A high-octane action series, "M.A.S.K." centers on a secret task force battling a criminal organization across the globe. With high-tech masks and transforming vehicles, this show is a fun blend of 'G.I. Joe', 'Transformers', and James Bond. It's a classic '80s adventure that still packs a punch today.
