In the vibrant world of vintage toys, one line that continues to captivate collectors is the LJN Advanced Dungeons & Dragons (AD&D) action figures. These toys, born from a unique crossover between tabletop gaming and action figures, have established an enduring legacy. Let’s dive into the history of these beloved figures and answer a question we often get asked: when were the first dungeons and dragons figures made?
The Birth of AD&D
The AD&D action figures’ journey began in the 1980s, a decade famed for its iconic toys. 1983 marked the birth of the AD&D action figures, a series produced by the now-defunct toy company LJN. This collection resulted from a licensing agreement with TSR, Inc., the original publisher of the Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) role-playing game. A second collection released in 1984 boasted qualities like real cloth capes and cloaks.
AD&D Figures’ Unique Qualities
In an era dominated by franchises like G.I. Joe and Transformers, the AD&D figures brought something fresh to the toy aisles. These figures were based on the fantastical characters and monsters that populate the D&D universe. They transport the immersive role-playing experience from the tabletop to the playroom.
The line-up offered many characters and creatures, including heroes like Strongheart the Paladin and terrifying beasts like Warduke and the hook horror. These intricate designs, with a range of accessories and playsets, allowed children (and adults!) to recreate their D&D adventures in a new format.
One standout feature of the LJN’s AD&D line was the ‘Battle-Matic’ action, where a lever on the figure’s back would trigger a movement, such as swinging a sword or shield. This ability added a dynamic element that brought these characters to life, making them a hit with fans.
AD&D’s Legacy
Since their debut in 1983, these AD&D action figures have become collector’s items. This is due to their detailed design, functionality, and role in merging the worlds of action figures and role-playing games. Their popularity has even spurred later companies to produce their lines of D&D action figures, carrying on the legacy started by LJN.
The LJN AD&D figures serve as a testament to the D&D universe’s enduring allure. Their creation in the early ’80s marked an essential chapter in toy history that continues to fascinate and inspire to this day. Whether you’re an avid D&D player, a vintage toy collector, or someone who appreciates the confluence of pop culture and toy manufacturing, the LJN AD&D figures undoubtedly hold a special place in the annals of toy history.
Do you have old and used AD&D toys?
If you have a collection of old and used toys, you can turn those toys into cash. There is no reason to let those old toys collect dust. Contact us today to sell your AD&D toy collection.
Our professional, friendly, and expert staff have decades of experience as collectible toy buyers. If you are ready to sell your collection today, fill out the form below or call us at 888-946-2895.
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!