The greatest cartoons of the 1980s weren’t the ones everyone remembers. Hidden beneath the shadow of mainstream hits, dozens of innovative shows pushed creative boundaries further. From sentient Rubik’s Cubes to dinosaur-riding heroes, these concepts broke all rules. These shows taught values while delivering action and humor kids craved, and even short-lived series left impressions that lasted a long time.
Your complete guide to 80s cartoon nostalgia starts here.
20. The Littles
If you’ve ever wondered what might be living in your walls, “The Littles” answered that question. Based on John Peterson’s children’s novels, the show aired on ABC from 1983 to 1985 with 29 episodes across 3 seasons. These six-inch-tall characters turned everyday objects into survival tools while emphasizing resourcefulness and family bonds. A made-for-TV movie “Here Come the Littles” expanded their world in 1985. For kids who struggled with feeling small in a big world, these tiny heroes showed that size never determines courage.
19. M.A.S.K.
70 million toys sold proves M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) struck gold with its winning formula. Kenner Products and DIC Entertainment created this action-packed series that ran from 1985 to 1986, producing 75 episodes in just 2 seasons. Matt Trakker’s team battled VENOM in high-speed chases that thrilled young viewers. The perfect blend of transforming vehicles and powered masks gave the show its distinctive edge. Caught between Transformers and G.I. Joe? M.A.S.K. delivered the best of both worlds in one adrenaline-fueled package.
18. Silverhawks
The Silverhawks turned metal bodies into an advantage, soaring through space as cybernetic heroes. Rankin/Bass Productions launched this sci-fi adventure in 1986, running 65 episodes in a single season until 1987. The metallic transformations and battles against crime lord Monstar showcased impressive animation for the era. Though overshadowed by its cousin series Thundercats, Silverhawks developed a dedicated cult following. One in four 80s cartoon collectors still ranks this show among their top space-themed series, proving its enduring impact among hardcore fans.
17. Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light
When technology fails, magic rises – the perfect premise behind Visionaries’ post-apocalyptic fantasy world. Hasbro and Sunbow Productions created this fantasy-sci-fi hybrid that aired for just 13 episodes in 1987. The Spectral Knights’ battles against the Darkling Lords featured complex world-building and rich lore. Many critics felt the concept might have been too sophisticated for younger viewers. If you’re searching for a forgotten gem that blended fantasy and sci-fi before it was common, Visionaries delivers magic and technology in perfect balance.
16. Jem and the Holograms
Looking for strong female characters in 80s cartoons? Jem and the Holograms delivered when few others did. Hasbro, Sunbow, and Marvel Productions developed this girl-powered series that ran from 1985 to 1988 with 65 episodes across 3 seasons. Jerrica Benton’s transformation into rock star Jem using the computer Synergy created endless dramatic possibilities. The rivalry with the Misfits drove storylines forward through music, fashion, and secret identities. While male-oriented action shows dominated the decade, Jem broke the mold by proving girls deserved their own action and adventure too.
15. Dino-Riders
Tyco Toys turned prehistoric beasts into high-tech battle platforms, creating the ultimate boys’ toy fantasy. Tyco and Marvel Productions launched this prehistoric battle series that aired from 1988 to 1990 but only produced 14 episodes. The Valorians formed telepathic bonds with dinosaurs while the Rulons used mind-control technology to force the creatures to fight. Educational dinosaur facts sneaked into the action-packed storylines. Although there are more expensive toys than these, the original T-Rex toys now fetch over $200 among collectors, making them some of the most valuable 80s cartoon merchandise still hunted by fans.
14. Denver, the Last Dinosaur
Unlike most dino-themed shows, Denver focused on friendship rather than fighting as a friendly prehistoric pal in modern times. World Events Productions developed this heartwarming tale that ran from 1988 to 1990 with 52 episodes across 2 seasons. Denver’s adventures with his human friends mixed humor with light educational content about friendship and history. The impossibly catchy theme song (“Denver, the Last Dinosaur, he’s my friend and a whole lot more!”) remains stuck in viewers’ heads decades later. When parents worried about violence in cartoons, Denver offered a peaceful alternative that still managed to keep kids entertained.
13. The Wuzzles
The Wuzzles marked Disney’s first-ever TV animation series, making television history with its hybrid animal characters. Walt Disney Television Animation produced this colorful series that aired in 1985 but lasted just 13 episodes. Characters like Bumblelion (bumblebee + lion) and Rhinokey (rhino + monkey) delighted kids with their unique designs. The high-quality animation showed Disney’s commitment to maintaining standards across all platforms. Many children struggled to choose between favorite animals, but The Wuzzles solved this dilemma by brilliantly combining them, creating unforgettable hybrid characters that remained in viewers’ memories long after the short-lived series ended.
12. Turbo Teen
Ever wished you could become your car? Turbo Teen granted that bizarre fantasy through one of the decade’s weirdest premises. Ruby-Spears Productions developed this unusual concept that aired from 1984 to 1985 for just 13 episodes. Brett Matthews transformed into a red sports car when he got hot and reverted to human form when cold. Car chases and narrow escapes filled each episode with high-octane action. The bizarre transformation sequences fascinated kids even as adults questioned the logic. For animation fans looking back at 80s oddities, Turbo Teen still stands as the perfect example of how creative freedom sometimes leads to wonderfully absurd television.
11. Pound Puppies
Homeless pets found their voices – literally – in Pound Puppies, turning a real-world problem into heartwarming adventures. Tonka and Hanna-Barbera Productions created this show that aired from 1986 to 1989 with 39 episodes across 2 seasons. The talking dogs worked together to help other pups escape the pound and find loving families. Character designs based on various dog breeds increased the show’s appeal to pet-loving kids. Struggling with loneliness? These cartoon canines offered the perfect reminder that family can be found in the most unexpected places.
10. Wildfire
For horse-loving kids dreaming of magical adventures, Wildfire galloped straight into their fantasy sweet spot. Hanna-Barbera Productions developed this magical series that aired for just 13 episodes in 1986. Sara’s discovery that she’s heir to a magical kingdom while living on a Montana ranch created a compelling dual-world narrative. The show featured a strong female lead character when such representations weren’t common. Wildfire launched three months before My Little Pony, beating the more famous equine franchise to television screens while offering more complex storytelling.
9. Widget, the World Watcher
Before Captain Planet made environmentalism cool, Widget quietly fought pollution with alien powers. Zodiac Entertainment produced this eco-friendly series that ran from 1990 to 1991 with 65 episodes across 2 seasons. Widget and his human friends tackled pollution, deforestation, and other ecological issues before such themes became mainstream. The show balanced educational content with entertaining adventures to keep kids engaged. While other heroes battled supervillains, Widget taught a generation that the real enemy might be our treatment of the planet.
8. Beverly Hills Teens
The Beverly Hills Teens lived the lavish lifestyle most viewers could only dream about, jetting to school in private planes. DIC Entertainment created this series that aired from 1987 to 1988 with 65 episodes in a single season. Private jets, fancy cars, and massive mansions provided the backdrop for friendship struggles and social rivalries. The diverse cast featured characters with distinct personalities that kept storylines varied and interesting. Young viewers often connected with the show because it revealed a surprising truth – beneath the wealth and privilege, these rich kids faced the same social insecurities and friendship challenges as everyone else.
7. Rubik, the Amazing Cube
Frustrated by an unsolvable puzzle cube? Rubik’s Amazing Cube solved itself – and also talked, flew, and fought evil. Ruby-Spears Productions developed this concept that aired for just 13 episodes in 1983. The sentient Rubik’s Cube could float, talk, and help solve mysteries for its human companions. Children protected Rubik from an evil magician while embarking on various adventures. Problem-solving and teamwork themes ran throughout each episode. The show aired the same year Rubik’s Cube sales topped 200 million worldwide, perfectly timing its run with the height of cube mania.
6. Kidd Video
MTV meets Saturday morning cartoons perfectly describes Kidd Video’s groundbreaking format and visual style. DIC Entertainment and Saban Entertainment produced this innovative show that aired from 1984 to 1985 for 13 episodes. A real band got sucked into a cartoon dimension, creating a perfect blend of live-action and animation that broke new ground. Original songs and colorful fantasy landscapes filled each episode with music video energy. When your parents complained about too much MTV, this show offered the perfect compromise – music videos disguised as acceptable children’s programming.
5. C.O.P.S.
“Fighting crime in a future time” wasn’t just a catchy tagline – it perfectly captured C.O.P.S.’ vision of law enforcement in 2020. DIC Entertainment and Hasbro created this show that ran from 1988 to 1989 with 65 episodes across 2 seasons. Specialized officers with unique gadgets fought against Big Boss and his criminal gang in high-tech battles. C.O.P.S. featured surprisingly complex storylines for a toy-based cartoon. Missing traditional police shows? C.O.P.S. offered all the excitement of cop dramas but with futuristic tech that made it appropriate for younger viewers.
4. Camp Candy
If you missed the gentler side of 80s cartoons, Camp Candy offered a refreshing break from laser battles and transforming robots. DIC Entertainment and John Candy himself developed this series that aired from 1989 to 1992 with 40 episodes across 3 seasons. The comedian brought his warmth to animation as a camp counselor helping kids enjoy nature and learn valuable life lessons. Camp activities and wilderness adventures taught friendship and teamwork through humor rather than preaching. John Candy’s natural charm translated perfectly to animation, making this one of the few celebrity-based cartoons that genuinely captured its star’s appeal.
3. Galaxy High School
High school social hierarchies get a cosmic reset when Earth teens attend an alien school in this brilliant role-reversal story. Chris Columbus (yes, the Home Alone director) and TMS Entertainment created this clever show that aired for just 13 episodes in 1986. Popular jock Doyle struggled while formerly nerdy Aimee thrived among their alien classmates, subverting typical teen tropes. Creative alien designs and imaginative settings showcased the production team’s visual ingenuity. Worried about fitting in at a new school? Galaxy High School reassured viewers that sometimes a fresh environment is exactly what you need to discover your true potential.
2. The Bionic 6
The Bionic Six proved that family bonding time can include fighting supervillains with high-tech augmented powers. TMS Entertainment and MCA TV produced this action series that ran from 1987 to 1989 with 65 episodes across 2 seasons. A skiing accident gave the Bennett family bionic enhancements, leading to their united battle against the villainous Scarab. Science fiction and superhero elements blended seamlessly in each adventure. While the Fantastic Four focused on cosmic rays, The Bionic Six showed that technology could create equally compelling superhero origin stories – with family values at their core.
1. Dino-Saucers
Dinosaurs? Cool. Aliens? Awesome. Dinosaur aliens fighting over Earth? Pure 80s cartoon genius. Calico Entertainment developed this series that aired for just 13 episodes in 1989. The heroic Dino-Saucers protected humans from the evil Tyrannos with help from teenage allies. Dinosaur-themed vehicles and weapons showed the clear toy marketing potential despite limited merchandising success. Released the same year as Tim Burton’s Batman dominated pop culture, this obscure series represents the opposite end of the entertainment spectrum – proof that the 80s had room for both groundbreaking cinema and gloriously over-the-top cartoon concepts.
