In the late 1980s, a toy line took the world by storm, introducing children to a fusion of time travel, adventure, and aviation battles. The Ring Raiders were small (3 – 4 cm long) plastic toy airplanes mounted on rings with a detachable display stand. The toy line had a compelling story and a variety of products to choose from. Let’s travel back in time to discover the history surrounding the original Ring Raiders action figures!
The Original Ring Raiders Action Figures
Manufactured by Matchbox, the original Ring Raiders action figures debuted in 1988, cementing their place in vintage toy history. The premise of Ring Raiders was as intriguing as the toys themselves. Representing an international air force composed of the most legendary planes and pilots throughout history, the Ring Raiders traversed time to battle against the villainous Skull Squadron. Their home base, the Air Carrier Justice, symbolized their relentless fight for justice.
Series 1 and 2
The first series of these toys included Ring Raiders such as Victor Wing, Hero Wing, and Valor Wing. On the other side of the spectrum, the Skull Squadron figures: Ambush Wing, Bandit Wing, and Vulture Wing. These characters reappeared with reinforcements in Series 2. For the Ring Raiders, Rescue Wing, Freedom Wing, and Bravery Wing were added, and for the Skull Squadron, Havoc Wing, Vicious Wing, and Rebel Wing joined the ranks.
Diverse Product Packaging
Collectors could acquire Ring Raiders products through various options: Wing Packs, Battle Packs, Bases, Battle Blasters, and Action Packs. Wing Packs had the appeal of containing four aircraft with similar color schemes. Twelve Wing Packs were released – evenly distributed between Ring Raiders and Skull Squadron. Battle Packs catered to fans of both factions, offering a package of two aircraft, one from each squadron. Four base options were available: Air Carrier Justice, Skybase Freedom, and Skybase Courage for Ring Raiders; and Skull Squadron Mobile Base for the villains. Battle Blasters were wrist accessories with immersive sound effects, and Action Packs are now the most sought-after items due to their rarity. They offered a mixture of eight aircraft from both sides, some re-releases and others featuring new models and color schemes.
Ring Raiders Take Off Into New Mediums
The toy line’s popularity led to an animated television series in 1989 developed by DIC Enterprises and Bohbot Communications. The series began with a thrilling two-hour special, further expanding with five half-hour episodes. The world of Ring Raiders also extended into the comic universe, with a comic book series launched by Fleetway Publications in mid-1989.
Conclusion
Matchbox might have launched the first Ring Raiders action figures over three decades ago, but their nostalgic charm still captivates collectors and enthusiasts today. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of these pieces of toy history. At Wheeljack’s Lab, we have a plethora of Ring Raiders to choose from, amongst hundreds of other toy lines to explore!
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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!