Classic Microman Showcase

Following the smash hit of Star Wars, in 1977 many toy manufacturers were looking a line of science fiction based action figures that could rival the success of toy manufacturer Kenner.

The original Microman line from Takara was purchased by Mego and re-labeled as the Micronauts. The toy line was initially a big success in North America, but with no movie tie in or other mass media push such as a cartoon, many of Takara's later efforts were dropped.

While the series continued to enjoy success in Japan the North American market eventually lost steam. About the only big push the toy line had here was a comic book tie in produced by Marvel Comics. This is unfortunate due to the fact that the figures were revolutionary for their time and had superior articulation and more variety of vehicles and accessories than their Kenner counterparts.

I've also collected the comics and it's quite a good read, reminiscent of Star Wars.

Later around 2002 toy manufacturer Palisades re-released the original Micronauts designs drawing up and copying from the Takara figures to look just like they did back in late 70's.


According to the Japanese narrative the Microman were aliens who had come to Earth after the destruction of their home planet. In some cases some of the Micromen were changed due to polluted atmospheres into Acroyears, which in essence are evil Micromen.

It's unfortunate that the only medium that was given to these line of figures was a Manga story and that there was no anime to go with the property, it may have prospered better.  Later in the 90's Takara released their Magne Powers anime which did not generate the sales they were expecting and the toy line was put on hiatus.

While I'll admit the classic look is somewhat dated compared to modern day figures it has that retro-nostalgic feel of the days of old and is really a matter of personal taste.