The 80’s and 90s were a pure goldmine for toy lines. Many toy lines were often forgotten due to the sheer amount that was released. I feel like Supernaturals is one of those lines. While I only had a handful of these, I feel they are an important part of the 80’s toy line history.
Produced by Tonka in 1986, Supernaturals used an almost medieval warrior theme, which never gets old to this day. They would add some variety within this genre though featuring such characters as a Viking, Native American, Pirate and an egyptian themed snake charmer. Each figure would come with some sort of weapon and a shield. There were also a smaller set of figures which featured the “Ghostlings.” These were all shaped like small hooded figures but were mainly all the same. The key selling point and what made Supernaturals stand out where the holograms. Each figure had a chest piece hologram as well as one on their shield. These holograms would have two different images depending how they were turned. This technically would “Unleash the hologram power!” This was by far the coolest part of the toy, and I still think they are cool to this day. The holograms were fairly new to us at this time, but were also done very well. Just check out the details in this picture!
Produced by Tonka in 1986, Supernaturals used an almost medieval warrior theme, which never gets old to this day. They would add some variety within this genre though featuring such characters as a Viking, Native American, Pirate and an egyptian themed snake charmer. Each figure would come with some sort of weapon and a shield. There were also a smaller set of figures which featured the “Ghostlings.” These were all shaped like small hooded figures but were mainly all the same. The key selling point and what made Supernaturals stand out where the holograms. Each figure had a chest piece hologram as well as one on their shield. These holograms would have two different images depending how they were turned. This technically would “Unleash the hologram power!” This was by far the coolest part of the toy, and I still think they are cool to this day. The holograms were fairly new to us at this time, but were also done very well. Just check out the details in this picture!
Around the same time of the Supernaturals came Visionaries, which seem to be a lot more popular among kids and toy collectors alike. This may have been because the Visionaries figured not only had holograms, but also were about the same size as GI Joes and had more articulation. Here is a picture of a Visionaries figure.
Here is a Supernaturals and Visionaries figure side by side. You can see some similarities.
If memory serves correct, only one line of these toys was produced, yet it seemed like there was a good variety. There were a few vehicles and play sets released, but it wasn’t until doing further research in the internet age that I discovered them. Supernaturals are a very underrated toy line, and anyone that collects toys or 80’s pop culture items should try and pick up at least one of these at some point to add to your collection. Did you have these toys or remember them? Share your thoughts below and if you like these articles consider supporting the site. Until the article C YA!