The Best G.I. Joe Action Figures from the 1980s: A Close Examination

When the G.I. Joe action figures hit the shelves in the 1980s, they quickly became a household name, appealing to both children and collectors. Each figure had its unique charm, but which ones truly stood out as the best?

From intricate designs to incredible play value, let's dive into the most memorable G.I. Joe action figures from the '80s and explore what made them so special.

Version One: Zartan from 1984

Introducing one of the most iconic G.I. Joe action figures of the 1980s: Zartan. This 1984 version of Zartan paired with the swamp sled offered countless hours of play value. The figure's face mask featured a disguise color that turned him blue, complete with sensitive plastic labels for his chest and thigh armor. His backpack served as storage for the mask and even the sled that disassembled for easier storage. When on a mission, Zartan could easily hide his vehicle within the sled or tow it behind him. The name 'Zartan' itself is just badass, making him a favorite among collectors and nostalgic fans alike. The combination of cool features, dynamic design, and play value made this version pull ahead as a top choice.

Snake Eyes: The Mute Ninja

Another standout from the 1980s collection was Snake Eyes. Back in the day, Snake Eyes was the single most popular Joe because he was a mute Ninja who had been scarred long before Deadpool became famous. His figure captured the essence of this mysterious character, and the addition of his canine buddy, Timber, added to the magic. Snake Eyes' sleek and intimidating design, combined with his commando dual wielding of an Uzi and a sword, made him a timeless figure. The commando duel with his weapon felt like an adventure in itself, and the design is undeniably classic.

Version 2 Rock: The Versatile Commando

Let's not forget about Rock (Rock 'N' Roll), another standout from the 1980s line. His most noteworthy feature was the removable rifle mounted to his leg. This ability alone made him an attractive choice for collectors, but the real brilliance came with his dual Gatling guns. The guns fed from his backpack, creating a massive, streamlined weapon that was a sight to behold. Rock 'N' Roll and Roadblock were the go-to figures when it came to carrying heavy weaponry. Both figures were synonymous with the idea of being able to carry and fire at the same time, making them the perfect choice for those who wanted the most robust play experience.

From Zartan's versatile and strategic elements to Snake Eyes' sleek and intimidating style, and Rock's powerful and versatile weapons, the 1980s G.I. Joe collection offered a wealth of memorable and amazing action figures. Each one brought something unique to the table, but it's clear that both Zartan and Snake Eyes held a special place in the hearts of 1980s toy enthusiasts.

Finding the best G.I. Joe action figures from this era can be a fun and nostalgic experience for collectors or simply a throwback to a childhood filled with excitement and wonder. Whether you're looking to relive the glory days or collect these iconic figures for your own set, the selection from the '80s can’t be beat.

How do you rank the G.I. Joe figures from that era? Do you have a particular favorite that we didn't mention? Share your thoughts in the comments below!