The First Barnyard Commandos
In the late 1980s, the world of children’s action figures was taken by storm by a rather quirky set of characters: the Barnyard Commandos. First manufactured by Playmates in 1989, these unforgettable toys came from the creative mind of James Groman. His unique concept brought an entirely new twist to the action figure scene.
Barnyard Commandos Unique Features
Barnyard Commandos weren’t just any ordinary set of toys. Their unusual blend of fun and fantasy made these figures unique and attractive. They were anthropomorphic farm animals sporting military gear and weaponry – a remarkable, humorous, and entertaining blend. It was the kind of offbeat concept that could only have sprung from the fertile imagination of the 80s toy industry. In an era defined by action figures from franchises like Transformers and G.I. Joe, Barnyard Commandos carved their niche by providing something wildly different. The line included several figures divided into two warring factions: the R.A.M.S. (Rebel Army of Military Sheep) and the P.O.R.K.S. (Platoon of Rebel Killer Swine).
Impact and Legacy
The Barnyard Commandos’ popularity surged quickly after their debut, thanks to the figures’ unusual concept and detailed, high-quality design. They also benefited from a successful marketing campaign that drew heavily on the humor inherent in the concept. Though the Barnyard Commandos line was relatively short-lived compared to other ’80s toys, their unique concept left a lasting impact on the toy industry. The quirky characters continued to be popular collectibles into the 21st century, which has seen a resurgence of interest in vintage toys. Today, they are highly sought-after items among vintage toy collectors, often fetching high prices at auctions and online marketplaces.
Concluding Thoughts
Despite their brief moment in the limelight, the Barnyard Commandos figures have held their ground in the hearts of vintage toy enthusiasts. The toys’ whimsical charm and relatively short production period have made them treasures in the vintage toy market. Their unique blend of humor, creativity, and quality manufacturing has proven an enduring recipe for success, even more than three decades after their creation.
As a vintage toy enthusiast, the story of Barnyard Commandos serves as a reminder that sometimes the most unconventional ideas can lead to the most memorable toys. Their legacy is a testament to the creativity and innovation that defined the 1980s toy industry. And as long as collectors continue to cherish these treasures, the Barnyard Commandos’ spirit will live on.
Barnyard Commandos Toy Checklist
Do you have old and used Barnyard Commandos 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!