We’ve already shared the exciting news about the reboot of the M.A.S.K. toy line by The Loyal Subjects. But for those who’ve been living under a rock, here’s a quick recap: toymaker The Loyal Subjects is teaming up with Hasbro to bring back the iconic 1985 franchise M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) just in time for the IP’s 40th anniversary.
For the uninitiated, M.A.S.K. was a 75-episode cartoon series (spread across two seasons) from the mid-’80s. It followed a special task force led by Matt Trakker as they battled V.E.N.O.M.—that’s short for Vicious Evil Network of Mayhem—headed by the delightfully named Miles Mayhem. These guys duked it out using seemingly ordinary vehicles that transformed into combat-ready machines, all while wearing “masks” (more like chunky helmets, really) with unique powers.
One odd detail worth pointing out: for some reason, the Rhino—a semi truck with a built-in research lab and a huge-ass rocket—is called the Mobile Defense Unit. Meanwhile, Switchblade, Mayhem’s transforming jet/helicopter, goes by the very generic “High Tech Helicopter.” Sure, why not?
The rebooted toys aim to stay true to the original look and feel—plus a few upgrades. Expect consumer-applied labels, retro-style packaging, modern articulation (yes, more joints!), foot pegs on vehicles, and even blast effects. Personally, the improved figure poseability has me way too excited for a grown man.
The first wave will include the MDU (Rhino), Condor, Thunderhawk, and the High Tech Helicopter. They’ll be available for pre-order exclusively through Big Bad Toy Store starting July 2025, with wider US and international availability following in September 2025.
Man, what a time to be alive. I was a fan as a kid, but never dared ask my parents for the toys. I did manage to snag a Condor using my savings—it was the cheapest one at the time. Anyway, as you can imagine, this is huge for me… even for an old guy!
Images: The Loyal Subjects.
