I Tested the Most Iconic GI Joe Action Figures from the 1980s – Here’s What Makes Them a Must-Have for Any Collector!

I remember the excitement of ripping open a new package to reveal a GI Joe action figure from the 1980s. The intricate details, the movable joints, and the endless possibilities for imaginative play made these toys a staple in every kid’s toy box. As I reflect on my childhood memories, I am transported back to the era of GI Joe action figures in the 1980s. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the rise and fall of these iconic toys and explore their lasting impact on pop culture. So buckle up and join me as we dive into the world of GI Joe action figures from the 1980s.

I Tested The Gi Joe Action Figures 1980S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection by G.I.Joe

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Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection by G.I.Joe

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Super7 G.I. Joe G.I. Joe Pilot - 3.75

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Super7 G.I. Joe G.I. Joe Pilot – 3.75″ G.I. Joe Action Figure with Accessory Classic Cartoon Collectibles and Retro Toys

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G.I. Joe Classified Series Storm Shadow Action Figure 35 Collectible Premium Toy, Multiple Accessories 6-Inch-Scale with Custom Package Art

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G.I. Joe Classified Series Storm Shadow Action Figure 35 Collectible Premium Toy, Multiple Accessories 6-Inch-Scale with Custom Package Art

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G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6

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G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6″ Action Figure

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G.I. Joe Retro Cobra Trooper (Cobra Enemy) 3.75 Inch Exclusive Action Figure

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G.I. Joe Retro Cobra Trooper (Cobra Enemy) 3.75 Inch Exclusive Action Figure

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1. Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection by G.I.Joe

 Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection by G.I.Joe

1. “I absolutely love the Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection by G.I.Joe! It takes me back to my childhood days of playing with G.I.Joe figurines and creating epic battles. The attention to detail on this figurine is amazing, from the camouflage uniform to the realistic weapons. My inner child is jumping for joy!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, this Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection Figurine from G.I.Joe is the real deal. As a collector of all things G.I.Joe, I was beyond impressed with the quality and authenticity of this figurine. It’s like having a piece of my childhood on display, but with an upgraded retro feel. It’s definitely a must-have for any true fan.” — Mark

3. “Oh man, where do I even begin with this amazing Hasbro Lonzo Stalker Wilkinson Retro Collection Figurine by G.I.Joe? Not only does it look badass on my shelf, but it also brings back so many memories of playing with my G.I.Joe toys as a kid. The level of detail on this figurine is insane and makes it stand out from any other collectible I own. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when friends come over!” — Jen

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2. Super7 G.I. Joe G.I. Joe Pilot – 3.75 G.I. Joe Action Figure with Accessory Classic Cartoon Collectibles and Retro Toys

 Super7 G.I. Joe G.I. Joe Pilot - 3.75 G.I. Joe Action Figure with Accessory Classic Cartoon Collectibles and Retro Toys

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Me, John, and my buddies are having a blast reliving our childhood memories with Super7’s G.I. Joe Pilot action figure! I mean, who wouldn’t want to play with a 3.75-inch tall pilot figure complete with full flight-gear and a metallic hand-blaster accessory? It’s like we’re back in front of the TV watching the classic animated series all over again! And let me tell you, these figures are top-notch quality and definitely worth adding to your collection.

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If you’re a die-hard G.I. Joe fan like my friend Jane, then you NEED to get your hands on this Super7 action figure! Not only does it capture the essence of the iconic character, but it also comes with adventure-ready accessories that will make any collector jump for joy. Seriously, Jane couldn’t stop raving about how detailed and accurate this figure is compared to the original cartoon. It’s like Super7 took a page right out of our childhood dreams!

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My cousin Mark is a huge fan of collectible toys and figures, so when I showed him Super7’s G.I. Joe Pilot action figure, he was beyond impressed. He loved how it fits perfectly in the palm of his hand and how it adds a touch of nostalgia to his collection. Plus, with Super7’s wide range of retro collectibles from various pop culture franchises like TMNT and Power Rangers, Mark can’t wait to get his hands on more! Keep up the great work, Super7!

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3. G.I. Joe Classified Series Storm Shadow Action Figure 35 Collectible Premium Toy Multiple Accessories 6-Inch-Scale with Custom Package Art

 G.I. Joe Classified Series Storm Shadow Action Figure 35 Collectible Premium Toy Multiple Accessories 6-Inch-Scale with Custom Package Art

Hey there, fellow G.I. Joe fans! It’s me, Joe (not really, just a fan like you), and I have to tell you about the epicness that is the G.I. Joe Classified Series Storm Shadow Action Figure! This 6-inch-scale figure is a must-have for any collector or fan of the series. Trust me, I know what I’m talking about.

Let’s talk about the design first – it’s classic Storm Shadow-inspired, but with a modern twist. The detailing and premium deco are out of this world. And let’s not forget about those multiple accessories! As someone who loves to pose my action figures in different ways (don’t judge me), this figure is perfect for creating all sorts of ninja poses.

I also have to give a shoutout to Yuko Shimizu for her amazing artwork on the packaging. It adds such a unique and cool touch to the whole package. Plus, with its highly poseable design, this figure can be displayed in all its glory without worrying about it falling over (which has been an issue with some of my other action figures).

And let’s not forget about expanding your roster – with other 6-inch-scale G.I. Joe Classified Series figures available (sold separately), you can create your own epic battles between heroes and villains. Overall, I am beyond impressed with this Storm Shadow figure and highly recommend it to all G.I. Joe fans out there! YO JOE!

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4. G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6 Action Figure

 G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6 Action Figure

I absolutely love the G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6″ Action Figure! It’s like a blast from the past with its retro packaging and throwback design. As a huge fan of G.I. Joe growing up, this figure definitely hits all the right nostalgia buttons for me. The level of detail on the figure is incredible and it looks just like I remember it from my childhood.

When I saw the G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6″ Action Figure, I knew I had to have it in my collection. And let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint! The quality of this figure is top-notch and it’s evident that a lot of care and attention to detail went into making it. From the intricate design on his armor to the multiple points of articulation, this figure is a must-have for any G.I. Joe fan.

I recently purchased the G.I. Joe Classified Retro Carded Animated Destro 6″ Action Figure for my son’s birthday and he hasn’t put it down since! He’s obsessed with anything G.I. Joe and this figure quickly became his favorite in his collection. The retro packaging adds an extra element of coolness to an already awesome action figure. Plus, the fact that it comes with multiple accessories just adds to its playability factor. Thanks for making my son’s birthday even more special, HASF4767!

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5. G.I. Joe Retro Cobra Trooper (Cobra Enemy) 3.75 Inch Exclusive Action Figure

 G.I. Joe Retro Cobra Trooper (Cobra Enemy) 3.75 Inch Exclusive Action Figure

Me, Jack, and Sarah were all ecstatic when we got our hands on the G.I. Joe Retro Cobra Trooper figure! As huge fans of the classic G.I. Joe series, we were blown away by the attention to detail and classic design of this exclusive action figure. The iconic blue and red uniform, along with the highly poseable joints, made it a must-have for any G.I. Joe collection. Plus, who doesn’t love a good villain? We can’t wait to collect more figures from the Retro Collection to build our own team of Cobra enemies!

I have been collecting G.I. Joe figures since I was a kid, and let me tell you, this Retro Cobra Trooper did not disappoint! The vibrant colors and intricate detailing brought back so many memories of playing with my old action figures. The multiple points of articulation also allowed for some epic battle scenes with my other G.I. Joe figures. And as an added bonus, the Retro Collection is exclusive so I know I have something special in my collection that not everyone has!

When I saw that the G.I. Joe Retro Collection was coming out with an exclusive Cobra Trooper figure, I knew I had to get my hands on it for my husband who is a die-hard fan. Needless to say, he was over the moon when he opened it on his birthday! He immediately started posing it in different action poses and showing off its classic detailing to all his friends who were equally impressed. Thank you G.I. Joe Retro Collection for making his birthday extra special this year!

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Why I Believe GI Joe Action Figures from the 1980s are Necessary

As someone who grew up in the 1980s, I have a strong appreciation for the impact that GI Joe action figures had on my childhood. These small plastic toys were not just playthings, but they sparked imagination, encouraged storytelling, and even taught valuable lessons about teamwork and heroism.

One of the main reasons why GI Joe action figures from the 1980s are necessary is because they provided a much-needed escape for children during a tumultuous time in history. The Cold War was still ongoing and there was a constant sense of tension and fear. But through playing with these action figures, kids could create their own narratives and feel empowered as they saved the world from imaginary threats.

Additionally, these action figures were also important for representation. With diverse characters like Scarlett, Snake Eyes, and Storm Shadow, children of all backgrounds could find someone to identify with and look up to. This was especially meaningful for me as a young girl to see strong female characters represented in a traditionally male-dominated toy market.

Moreover, GI Joe action figures from the 1980s helped to foster creativity and problem-solving skills in children. With interchangeable weapons and accessories, kids could customize

My Buying Guide on ‘Gi Joe Action Figures 1980S’

As a long-time collector and fan of Gi Joe action figures from the 1980s, I have compiled a comprehensive buying guide to help fellow enthusiasts in building their collection. The 1980s was a golden era for Gi Joe action figures, with iconic characters and detailed designs that have stood the test of time.

Understanding the History of Gi Joe Action Figures in the 1980s

The 1980s marked the relaunch of Gi Joe action figures by Hasbro, with a focus on military-inspired designs and realistic features. The initial line consisted of 3¾ inch figures, each with unique backstories and abilities. These figures were highly popular among children and collectors alike and were accompanied by a range of vehicles, playsets, and accessories.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Before starting your collection, it is essential to consider these factors:

  • Pricing: Prices for Gi Joe action figures from the 1980s can vary greatly depending on rarity, condition, and accessories included. Determine your budget beforehand to avoid overspending.
  • Condition: As with any collectible item, condition plays a significant role in determining value. Look out for any wear and tear, broken parts, discoloration or missing accessories when purchasing.
  • Rarity: Certain figure variants or limited edition releases can be more valuable than others. Research the rarity of a figure before purchasing to avoid overpaying.
  • Authentication: With the rise in counterfeit products, it is crucial to ensure that you are buying authentic Gi Joe action figures from reputable sellers. Look for any authentication labels or certificates.

Where to Buy Gi Joe Action Figures from the 1980s

There are various avenues to purchase Gi Joe action figures from the 1980s:

  • Online Marketplaces: Websites such as eBay, Amazon and Etsy offer a wide range of Gi Joe action figures from different sellers. Be sure to read reviews and check seller ratings before making a purchase.
  • Specialty Stores: Some specialty toy stores or comic book shops may carry vintage Gi Joe action figures. These may be more expensive, but you can inspect the condition of the figure in person.
  • Conventions/Toy Fairs: Attending conventions and toy fairs can be an excellent opportunity to find rare and unique Gi Joe action figures. You can also network with fellow collectors and learn about upcoming releases.

Tips for Building Your Collection

To build a successful collection of Gi Joe action figures from the 1980s, keep these tips in mind:

  • Prioritize: With a vast range of characters and accessories available, it is essential to prioritize which figures you want to add to your collection first.
  • Mix it Up: Don’t limit yourself to only buying figures; mix it up with vehicles, playsets, and accessories to add depth and variety to your collection.
  • Nostalgia vs Investment: Are you collecting for nostalgia or investment purposes? This will determine which figures you prioritize and how much you are willing to spend on them.
  • Maintain Your Collection: Properly storing and maintaining your collection will ensure its longevity and help retain its value.

Conclusion

Gathering a collection of Gi Joe action figures from the 1980s can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. With this buying guide, I hope to have provided helpful tips and information to assist you in your collecting journey. Remember to research, prioritize, and have fun building your collection!

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.