Hasbro began showing animated promos to debut their new G.I. Joe relaunch (first as a Marvel comic, then an action figure line), which had the heroes taking on the notorious terrorist organization known as Cobra. Cobra had unique villians like Destro, Storm Shadow and Cobra Commander while the Joes had guys like Duke, Roadblock, and Snake Eyes. Also, around this time, Mattel created a toyline that took fantasy to the next level with Masters of the Universe, which spawned a successful animated series. E.T. began playing in theaters nationwide. Superfriends, an animated adaptation of DC Comic characters, was a mainstay on Saturday mornings. Years later, Americans were introduced to the Whammy (a mascot of a game show known as Press Your Luck), Transformers, The A-Team, Zoids, M.U.S.C.L.E., and other things that would be etched forever in our heads.

2002.

A new comic from Image Comics (a company formed by former Marvel artists) is released featuring the popular G.I. Joe characters. Months later, Hasbro began showing animated promos to debut their new G.I. Joe relaunch, which had the heroes taking on the notorious terrorist organization known as Cobra. Also, around this time, Mattel recreated the Masters of the Universe toyline, mixing elements from anime and Western fantasy tales, which will spawn a successful toyline. E.T. has had a 21st century makeover and will be rereleased in theaters soon. Justice League, an animated adaptation of DC Comic characters, is a mainstay on Cartoon Network, and recently got renewed. Transformers will be relaunched in comic, animation, and toy form this year. Also, Americans have been reintroduced to Zoids with a new series and the return of the toyline, and will soon be reintroduced to the Whammy in a revamped version of Press Your Luck, The A-Team in a feature film from Top Cow Productions, and M.U.S.C.L.E. courtesy of 4Kids Entertainment.

Like it or not, the decade known and feared by a lot of people has crept back into the first decade of the 21st century. Current atmospheres and a resurgence of memories are responsible for its inevitable return. Not to mention the fact that a lot of children of the 80's are now in control of the most important aspects of pop culture (namely toy companies, comic companies, and cable networks). It's time to face facts. The 80s have returned. But how? And WHY now?!?

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