Background: Behind the Mask – Toy Book

John Dequadros, RIP Rocket Photography

Mask landed on the store shelves in the fall of 1985. Developed by Kenner, it focuses on an underground task force called the Mobile Armor Strike Komand (Mask) and its ongoing battle with Mayhem’s vicious evil network Venom. Combining Transformers’ high-tech excitement with GI Joe’s heroic moves, the line surrounds the vehicle, can be converted into live fighters and equips each character with a super-powered mask that can give them extraordinary abilities.

From the beginning

Four series of toys were released between 1985 and 1988, each showing incredible innovation and design. The line boasts high-quality vehicles, two-inch articulated action figures and impressive accessories. Iconic vehicles include Thunderhawk, a sleek red Camaro that turns into a jet. The Rhino is a powerful semi-truck, twice as many as the mobile command center; the SwitchBlade, a stealth attack helicopter; and an amphibious jeep called the Gator, ready to venture on land and at sea.

The accompanying numbers are equally impressive, each with a unique mask that adds an additional layer of playability. These masks are at the heart of the series’ mythology, providing unique powers for the characters. For example, Matt Trakker, the leader of the mask, grants enhanced vision and energy projection, while Miles Mayhem, the leader of the venom, wields a venom mask that can explode corrosive acid. This imaginative design and function blend makes this line a reality.

“There are several reasons why the mask is excellent,” explained host Dan Larson, Secret Milky Way On YouTube. “First of all, it’s a series of vehicles, and other toy lines have proven to be a popular way to build the world. Action numbers are often accessories for vehicles. Second, there is a common animated series every day to keep the toys and characters’ thoughts in dazzling visual scenes, which makes children want to recreate their own adventures. Third, they draw on the popularity of converting toys at the time. From Transformers to Egg Robots, the transformed toys were hot and obscured. But beyond that, toys are popular because they were so carefully designed and designed. Forty years later, these toys are still the marvel of engineering, inspiring people to study their own architecture more deeply and appreciate the work of the creators.”

Marketing: Reveal

Kenner Parker’s products are connected to retailers and place “Masks Save the Market” in the toy book, a two-page comic-style ad. In it, Matt Trakker and the mask “fight against the evil of poor sales.” The event touted an extensive product classification, sweepstakes and potential in-store appearances from Trakker and Thunderhawk Camaro, which vigorously incorporates over 30 licensing partnerships to bring the brand to the toys division and into the mainstream.

Just like the trend at the time, the line was supported by Saturday morning cartoons. It was produced by DIC Entertainment, premiered on September 30, 1985 and brought the world of masks to life. The series features voices from Doug Stone, Brendan McKane, Sharon Noble, Graeme McKenna and Mark Halloran, more than just a 30-minute toy ad. It offers exciting action, powerful animation, and the Rockin’ theme song by Shuki Levy and Haim Saban. Despite the 75-episode show ending in November 1986, the series left an indelible mark on its target audience.

“Hearing that theme song and seeing all the cool cars flying around the screen, if you encounter it, flip the channel, it will surely get your attention.” Peaugh Review On YouTube. “For kids, there’s a diverse team on both sides, and you have two cool heads – a remodeled titular mask worn by the vehicle and the character.”

In addition to other stories published by DC and Fleetway, Kenner packed the mask in 1988. While it may not have the same lifespan as the competition, the brand has become a cornerstone of 80s pop culture – influenced music and popped lines like Gi Joe in Gi Joe and inspired such as IDW Minersies, IDW Minerseries, sunder the IDW Minersies, sunder the IDW Minesries, sunder the Idw Minesries, sunder. Mask Revolution. Now, as the mask approaches its 40th anniversary, the brand is making a spectacular comeback for the theme of loyalty.

Forty years of fun

“We entered 2025 in the most epic way, and I remember that I took my first mask vehicle apart in 1985 when I was six years old,” shared Ben Montano, the loyalist. “The way Thunderhawk and everyone else transformed into their assault mode is a bit magical. It’s a toy collection that has been passed down from generation to generation and now 40 years later, our team has the honor to bring back, and we will enhance the game and presentation experience for all kids while honoring the classics with a modern twist, in the hopes of kids eager to return to the mask.”

The mask is not only another nostalgic property—it proves the innovation and imagination that still resonates today. Whether you’re a 1985 kid who’s discovering the line now or you can’t resist the temptation of flying Camaro, the brand promises to keep the action alive for decades to come. So, buckle, get ready for wildness! The Mask is Back – Ready to welcome the new generation into a world where “illusion is the ultimate weapon”.

Versions of this feature were originally published in the 2025 Big Toy Book. Click here to read the full question! Want to receive a printed toy book? Click here to get the subscription options!