Masters of the Universe burst onto the scene in early 1982. Here is a quick guide to all of the figures, beasts, vehicles, playsets and accessories in the original Masters of the Universe line!
First Wave: 1982
The first wave of Masters of the Universe debuted in Spring 1982. Despite being a new line with no existing movie tie-in, it sold an impressive $38 million in the US, from May to December 1982. The first wave included eight figures, two vehicles, a beast and a playset. Some of the most iconic toys in the line launched this year!
Second Wave: 1983
Sales for the second wave of Masters of the Universe jumped to $80 million in the US. This wave included seven figures, three beasts, two vehicles and a mini playset. Mekaneck was technically released at the end of 1983, but he is usually grouped with the third wave.
Third Wave: 1984
Sales for the third wave of Masters of the Universe hit $111 million in the US. This wave included twelve figures, three beasts, four vehicles, an accessory pack and a playset.
Fourth Wave (1985)
Sales for the fourth wave of Masters of the Universe jumped to $250 million in the US. This wave included thirteen figures, four vehicles, a beast/carrying case and a playset.
Fifth Wave (1986)
Sales for the fifth wave of Masters of the Universe hit $400 million in the US. This wave included fourteen figures, four vehicles, two beasts, two accessories and a playset.
Sixth Wave (1986-1987)
Note: the final wave of Masters of the Universe figures, although initially planned for 1987, was split up between late 1986 and 1987. Internally, Mattel called the earlier figures the “1986 1/2” wave. They were released toward the end of 1986, flooding the already oversaturated Masters of the Universe market with more product. On top of that, they had flooded the US market with previously released toys intended for the overseas market. By 1987, sales of Masters of the Universe toys took a sharp nosedive, topping out at $7 million. This final US split wave included sixteen figures, one vehicle, three beasts, and three accessories.
Seventh Wave (1988-1989)
The final wave of figures was only released in Europe. Tytus and Megator were originally planned for the 1987 US line. The Laser figures were created especially for the European market, since there was still some demand in that region.
