Get ready for another wave of nostalgia overload. The Loyal Subjects, the licensee for Kenner’s M.A.S.K. line of toys, unveiled Wave 2 in October shortly after Wave 1 started shipping in September. Joining the likes of the High Tech Helicopter (come on, we know that’s Switchblade), Thunderhawk, Mobile Defense Unit (that’s Rhino for ’80s kids), and Condor are Hurricane, Jack Hammer—now called Armored Assault Vehicle (A.A.V.), Pirahna—now called Stealth Submarine Cycle (S.S.C.), and Gator.
Don’t ask me why the name changes. But my search suggests that some of them have to do with trademark and licensing issues, and supposedly, for the benefit of new fans. Pfft. As if this ridiculous concept that got us hooked will suddenly attract younger buyers without a cartoon series to back them up. That’s not to mention it is many times for expensive now for them to be kids’ toys. Anyhoo, while Hasbro owns the IP now, certain original names may not be theirs to use, or could have expired registrations. I don’t care. My favorite has always been Pirahna, and it will remain Pirahna to me, never mind what The Loyal Subjects say.
As before, expect the same toys we remembered them to be, but produced with modern materials and technology, or so they say. I am skeptical after the reviews I have seen. I mean, in a way, they are authentic, but damn, I do not want a drooping-wing Thunderhawk, if you know what I mean. I received my set of five, which included the special edition MDU, but I have kept them boxed since. I am afraid I may not be able to take the disappointment, given the OCD in me and the money I have paid.
Moving on… expect the familiar retro packaging and the same gimmicks, but with a couple of new features like effect parts, et cetera. However, the official images posted did not show alternate helmets for the figures, which is supposed to be a new thing for the 2025/2026 reboot.
Anyways, The Loyal Subjects M.A.S.K. Wave 2 toys are expected to go on sale in early 2026. If you are keen, Toy Habits has more details about this latest wave. On a side note, I think we also need a Boulder Hill reboot, too. Don’t you think?
Images: The Loyal Subjects.
