Take a trip down memory lane as we explore the fascinating origins of the Manglor action figures. These beloved toys have charmed collectors and vintage enthusiasts with their uniqueness. Let’s dive into the history of the first Manglor action figures and discover what makes them so captivating.
The First Manglor Action Figures Are Born
The story began in 1984 when the Ideal Toy Company introduced the world to the world of Manglors. Designed to captivate young imaginations, these action figures boasted an unusual feature that set them apart from their counterparts. Ideal crafted each Manglor toy with a sticky, malleable material that allowed kids to stretch, squish, and mold them into various shapes. The packaging promised an intriguing ability to “return almost like new to their original yucky selves.”
The first wave of Manglor action figures included three distinctive characters: Manglord, Manglosaurus, and Manglodactyl. With vibrant colors and unique designs, these toys instantly stood out on store shelves. Young adventurers could create epic battles and imaginative scenarios as they brought the prehistoric world of the Manglor creatures to life.
Controversial Advertising and Unfulfilled Promises
Despite their popularity, the Manglor toys were not without controversy. Ideal Toy Company faced backlash due to the misleading claims made in their advertisements. The assertion that the figures could be stretched and squashed while miraculously returning to their original form proved more fiction than reality. Many disappointed children discovered the figures did not hold together as advertised, leading to frustration.
Series Additions
To reignite interest in the Manglor line, Ideal Toy Company released a second wave of figures in 1985. This time, the toys were packaged with plastic eggs, adding an element of surprise and anticipation to the purchase. The Manglodemon, Manglizard, and Manglodragon expanded the Manglor universe, offering fans new creatures to collect and play with.
To enhance the play experience, Ideal Toy Company also produced a playset called Manglor Mountain. This elaborate and colorful set provided a backdrop for endless adventures and battles among the Manglor figures. Unfortunately, like the action figures themselves, finding the Manglor Mountain playset in good condition today is challenging due to its rarity.
Relicensed by Toyfinity in 2013
Years after the original Manglor line ceased production, Toyfinity, a company specializing in resurrecting classic toy lines, acquired the rights to Manglor. In 2013, they brought the iconic figures back to life, reigniting the nostalgia and enthusiasm of collectors and fans. The reissued Manglor figures offered new generations a chance to experience these beloved toys’ charm.
The Elusive Search for Manglors
While the enthusiasm for Manglor action figures remains strong, finding these toys in pristine condition has become a formidable challenge. Due to their age and the issues with their construction, it is a rarity to come across Manglor figures that have withstood the test of time. This scarcity has only heightened their desirability among collectors, making them highly sought-after and valuable additions to any vintage toy collection.
In conclusion, the Ideal Toy Company manufactured the first Manglor action figures from 1984 to 1985, captivating young minds with their unique stretchable and squishable features. Despite the controversy surrounding their deceptive advertising, Manglor figures hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and vintage toy enthusiasts. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, the allure of the Manglor action figures continues to transcend time, evoking cherished memories and igniting the thrill of discovery.
Manglors Toy Checklist
Do you have old and used Manglors toys?
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About the Author
Author: Chris Ingledue
Contact: email
Bio: I am the founder and owner of Wheeljack’s Lab pop Culture and Toy Shop. My vision has always been to reunite customers with their favorite childhood toys and pop culture, triggering fond memories, and reigniting their imaginations. Every day, I work in the “lab” where it’s Christmas 365 days a year. I scour the internet, like when we had the Sears Catalog of yesteryear, for the next great treasure. Then, I await the arrival of the postman as if he were Santa Claus himself and helping collectors worldwide with their versions of Christmas. Every day as a vintage toy buyer is an absolute joy!