Madballs is a beloved toy line created by American Greetings in 1986. These grotesque and hilarious characters, with their gooey exteriors and twisted expressions, quickly gained immense popularity and spawned a lucrative franchise that included comic books, cartoons, and video games. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of Madballs, exploring their history, characters, significance, and enduring appeal.
The Madballs concept was conceived by Art Spindle, a former artist for Marvel Comics. Inspired by the popularity of wrestling figures and the grotesque nature of horror films, Spindle created a series of monstrous characters with unique personalities and backstories.
In 1986, American Greetings launched the first series of Madballs, featuring 12 characters including Dust Brain, Slobulus, and Horn Head. The toys were an instant hit, thanks to their outrageous designs, catchy slogans ("Scum of the Universe!"), and affordable price.
The Madballs universe is home to a vast cast of eccentric and unforgettable characters. Each ball has a unique name, personality, and set of gooey abilities:
Madballs have had a significant impact on popular culture:
Madballs offer several benefits:
1. How many Madballs are there?
Over 90 official Madballs characters have been released to date, with new series and variants being released regularly.
2. What is the most valuable Madball?
The Glow-in-the-Dark Screamin' Meemie, released in 1986, is one of the rarest and most valuable Madballs, worth hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on its condition.
3. Are Madballs still being made?
Yes, American Greetings continues to release new series and variants of Madballs, keeping the franchise alive for new generations of fans.
4. Where can I buy Madballs?
Madballs can be purchased from online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and specialized toy stores.
5. What is the latest Madballs series?
The latest Madballs series, "Madballs 2020," was released in 2020 and features a new cast of characters including Brain Eater, Splatter Jack, and Snarling Simon.
6. What is the best way to clean Madballs?
Gently wipe Madballs with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Whether you're a seasoned collector, a nostalgic enthusiast, or simply curious about the zany world of Madballs, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of this iconic toy phenomenon. Embrace the gross-out humor, collectible appeal, and timeless entertainment value of Madballs today!
Series | Year Released |
---|---|
Series 1 | 1986 |
Series 2 | 1987 |
Series 3 | 1989 |
Series 4 | 1990 |
Series 5 | 1990 |
Madballs vs. Mutilators | 1991 |
Madballs in Outer Space | 1992 |
Series 6 | 1993 |
Series 7 | 1994 |
Series 8 | 1995 |
Madballs 2000 | 2000 |
Madballs 2010 | 2011 |
Madballs 2020 | 2020 |
Madball | Value |
---|---|
Glow-in-the-Dark Screamin' Meemie | $1,000 - $5,000 |
Mad Mike | $500 - $1,000 |
Series 1 Dust Brain | $200 - $500 |
Series 2 Horn Head | $150 - $300 |
Series 1 Slobulus | $100 - $200 |
Product | Licensee |
---|---|
Comic Books | Marvel Comics |
Cartoon Series | Ruby-Spears Productions |
Video Games | Konami |
T-Shirts | Madballs Apparel |
Toys | American Greetings |
Trading Cards | Topps |
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