In the 1980s, the world of animation was a wild and wonderful place, filled with imaginative shows that captured the hearts and minds of audiences young and old. Despite the passage of time, these forgotten cartoons from the '80s remain worth watching today, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a reminder of the golden age of animation. Here's a look at ten such shows that still pack a punch of entertainment and imagination.
Dino-Riders
Hanna-Barbera Productions
This action-packed adventure series follows a group of peaceful Valorians who time-warp back to prehistoric Earth, where they befriend the dinosaur inhabitants using telepathic AMP necklaces. With dinosaurs equipped with laser cannons, it's a thrilling ride that showcases the absurdity of the '80s cartoon universe. While it may not have been meant for adults, 'Dino-Riders' is a fun, late '80s prehistoric adventure that still holds up today.
SilverHawks
Rankin/Bass Productions
A space-based adventure series that follows a team of humans enhanced with cybernetic implants as they travel the galaxy battling the villainous MonStar and his goons. With a mix of action, humor, and imaginative villain designs, 'SilverHawks' is a delightful '80s cartoon that should please fans of 'ThunderCats' and other Rankin/Bass Productions' classics.
Denver, the Last Dinosaur
World Events Productions
A heartwarming adventure series about a guitar-loving lizard named Denver who joins a group of California teens on their misadventures. With a catchy theme song and a charming lead character, 'Denver, the Last Dinosaur' is a lighthearted adventure that captures '80s culture and offers messages of friendship and teamwork.
Challenge of the GoBots
Hanna-Barbera Productions
A transforming robot toy line that inspired an animated series, 'Challenge of the GoBots' follows a group of heroic robots known as the Guardians as they protect humanity from the evil Renegades. With engaging central conflicts, unique character designs, and slick vehicles, it's an action-packed extravaganza that still holds up today.
Adventures of the Gummi Bears
Walt Disney Television Animation
A playful and high-stakes adventure series about a group of bouncy bears who protect the medieval kingdom of Dunwyn from the sneering Duke Igthorn. With expressive characters, colorful backgrounds, and sharp writing, 'Adventures of the Gummi Bears' is a magical world-building experience that still looks great today.
Snorks
Hanna-Barbera Productions
A whimsical and colorful adventure series about round-faced, bug-eyed creatures who live in the ocean world of Snorkland. With a mix of technology, teenage fare, and imaginative ocean world-building, 'Snorks' is a breezy adventure that still holds up today.
Heathcliff
DIC Enterprises
A mischievous tabby cat named Heathcliff whose antics keep the entire neighborhood on its toes. With a unique perspective on the feline experience, 'Heathcliff' is a fun and energetic show that offers a different take on the classic comic-strip cat.
The New Adventures of Johnny Quest
Hanna-Barbera Productions
A mature and gritty adventure series that follows the titular young adventurer as he travels the globe with his scientist father, best friend, and bodyguard, uncovering mysteries and battling dangerous villains. With a mix of action, cool bad guys, and clever mysteries, 'The New Adventures of Johnny Quest' is a cinematic cartoon that still holds up today.
Macron 1
Harmony Gold USA
A high-tech action series that combines two unrelated anime to follow a team of elite pilots as they attempt to reclaim Earth from the tyrannical Emperor Darkstar. With endless dogfights, giant robot battles, and serialized storytelling, 'Macron 1' is a slam-bang robot adventure that still packs a punch.
M.A.S.K.
DIC Enterprises
An action-packed series that centers on the secret task force M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) as its members battle the criminal organization V.E.N.O.M. (Vicious Evil Network of Mayhem) across the globe. With high-tech masks, transforming vehicles, and a mix of action and adventure, 'M.A.S.K.' is a '80s TV classic that still holds up today.
