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MASK toys are finally making their triumphant return in 2025. Lets have a look at The Loyal Subjects' new retro line, which was unveiled at a special event in New York City just before Toy Fair 2025. These highly anticipated action figures arrive just in time for the franchise's 40th anniversary, bringing back all the transforming vehicle action that made the original 75-episode series so memorable.
After seeing hands-on videos and pictures of the first wave of 2025 MASK toys, I can confirm that they brilliantly capture the essence of the classic Kenner toys while adding several modern enhancements. The collection features iconic vehicles like Thunderhawk and Condor, as well as the impressive Mobile Defense Unit (formerly known as Rhino), which transforms into a missile-launching command center, and the High Tech Helicopter (Switchblade). These new MASK toys stay true to the original designs, featuring collector-friendly touches like classic-inspired packaging and consumer-applied labels. Additionally, the figures now boast improved poseability, foot pegs on vehicles, and blast effects that significantly enhance the play experience. If you've been waiting decades for a worthy MASK Hasbro revival, this summer's release definitely deserves your attention.
What Is M.A.S.K. and Why It’s Back in 2025
For those unfamiliar with the franchise, M.A.S.K. (Mobile Armored Strike Kommand) was a 1980s phenomenon that combined the best elements of transforming vehicles and action figures into one innovative toy line. The original concept featured heroic agents led by Matt Trakker battling the criminal organization V.E.N.O.M., with both sides utilizing specialized masks that granted unique powers and vehicles that could transform from everyday modes of transportation into battle-ready machines.
The Legacy of M.A.S.K. and Kenner Toys
The original M.A.S.K. toys debuted in 1985 under Kenner Toys, quickly capturing children's imaginations with their dual-function vehicles and distinctive helmeted heroes. What made these toys special was their seamless transformation mechanics—vehicles like Thunderhawk could convert from a red Chevrolet Camaro into a jet fighter at the push of a button. Although the original toy line lasted only four years (1985-1988), it spawned a popular animated TV series, comic books, and a passionate fanbase that has kept the brand's memory alive for decades.
Hasbro and The Loyal Subjects Collaboration
After acquiring Kenner in the 1990s, Hasbro gained the rights to the M.A.S.K. property but kept it dormant for years. This changed when they partnered with The Loyal Subjects, a company known for their high-quality collectible figures that honor classic properties. This collaboration aims to revitalize the M.A.S.K. brand with modern manufacturing techniques while maintaining the nostalgic appeal that made the original toys so beloved. The Loyal Subjects brings their expertise in creating collectible-grade action figures with premium articulation and detail, perfectly complementing Hasbro's extensive experience with vehicle-based toy lines.
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary
The timing of this relaunch is particularly meaningful as 2025 marks exactly 40 years since M.A.S.K. first appeared on toy shelves. Rather than merely reissuing the original designs, this anniversary collection enhances the classic concepts with modern engineering advances. The 40th birthday celebration includes faithful recreations of fan-favorite vehicles alongside improved figure articulation and added play features that weren't possible with 1980s technology. For longtime collectors, these new releases offer a chance to recapture childhood memories, whereas younger generations can discover the unique charm of transforming vehicles combined with masked heroes for the first time.
Wave 1 Breakdown: Vehicles, Figures, and Features
M.A.S.K action figures and vehicles including a truck, car, bike, and jet displayed on a wooden surface at Toy Fair 2025.
The first wave of the new MASK toys offers four iconic vehicles, each meticulously recreated with modern enhancements while honoring their classic designs from 40 years ago.
Mobile Defense Unit (MDU): Missile Launcher and Command Center
The MDU (formerly known as Rhino) stands as the flagship vehicle of the 40th anniversary collection. This impressive big rig transforms into a formidable mobile defense headquarters at the push of a button. Notably, it features realistic rubber tires and upgraded details including improved sculpting on the side mirrors and fuel canisters. The MDU comes equipped with pop-out smoke stack cannons and a powerful spring-loaded command center missile launcher. Furthermore, this massive set includes both Matt Trakker with his Ultra Flash mask and Bruce Sato with his gravity-controlling Lifter mask. The detachable 4×4 Recon Rover offers additional play value with its independent axle movement.
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Thunderhawk: Camaro Jet Conversion and Matt Trakker
The Thunderhawk—perhaps the most iconic MASK vehicle—transforms from a sleek red Chevrolet Camaro Z28 into a formidable fighter jet. The Loyal Subjects have created all-new molds from scratch that stay true to the original's design while adding improved details like enhanced mirrors. Matt Trakker comes equipped with his signature Spectrum mask, and the vehicle features retractable wing cannons plus bombs stored underneath the chassis. The transformation mechanics remain faithful to the original—press a button and watch the gull-wing doors open to create wings.
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Condor: Motorcycle to Helicopter with Brad Turner
Brad "Chopper" Turner's lime green Condor motorcycle transforms into a one-man assault helicopter through a quick yet satisfying conversion process. The transformation involves flipping up the prop assembly and swinging the rear wheel straight back. This vehicle includes Brad Turner with his Hocus Pocus mask that projects false images. The Loyal Subjects version addresses the original's design issues, making it easier for the figure to properly sit on the motorcycle.
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High Tech Helicopter: VENOM's Switchblade and Miles Mayhem
Originally called Switchblade, this villainous vehicle (renamed due to trademark issues) features Miles "Wolf" Mayhem with his Viper mask. The purple and red helicopter converts to a fighter jet with a 13-inch length and 1-foot wingspan. The robust transformation mechanism allows quick conversion by flipping down the rear tail section, causing the wings to flip forward. Additional features include pop-out cannons with laser blast effects and a torpedo missile deployment switch.
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Modern Enhancements and Packaging Details
Beyond the nostalgia factor, what truly sets these new MASK toys apart are the thoughtful modern upgrades that enhance both play and display value.
Improved Articulation and Pose-ability
The original Kenner figures had fairly limited movement, essentially serving as vehicle drivers with minimal posing options. In contrast, the 40th anniversary collection features dramatically improved figure articulation at the shoulders, hips, and neck. These additional joints allow collectors to pose figures dynamically inside vehicles or during action scenes. Moreover, The Loyal Subjects have added foot pegs throughout all vehicles, ensuring figures remain securely in place during play or display.
Blast Effects and Dual Mask Accessories
Perhaps the most exciting enhancement comes in the form of dual mask accessories. Each figure includes both the classic "long mask" version and the rarer "short mask" variant that extends further down the face. These long masks come with power-up effects that showcase each character's unique abilities. For instance, Matt Trakker's Spectrum mask includes a blast effect, while Miles Mayhem's Viper mask features a corrosive poison effect. Besides masks, vehicles come with previously unseen accessories like Thunderhawk's disk launcher, the Condor's fairing cannon blast effect, and the MDU's smoke stack effects.
Classic-Inspired Packaging and Consumer-Applied Stickers
Despite all these innovations, The Loyal Subjects have wisely preserved what collectors loved about the originals. The packaging faithfully recreates the bright colors and dynamic artwork of the 1985 boxes, complete with vehicle illustrations and transformation sequences. Surprisingly, they've maintained the tradition of consumer-applied labels rather than factory-applied stickers—an authentic touch that enhances the nostalgic experience.
Naming Rights and Character Renaming Challenges
One unexpected hurdle in the MASK toys reissue involves trademark complications. Consequently, some classic vehicle names couldn't be used. The iconic Rhino is now called the "Mobile Defense Unit" (MDU), while VENOM's Switchblade has been renamed "High Tech Helicopter." Notwithstanding these name changes, the designs remain identical to their beloved counterparts from four decades ago.
Pre-Order, Pricing, and SDCC Exclusives
Marking the MASK 40th birthday celebration, Hasbro and The Loyal Subjects have announced specific availability details for these highly anticipated collectibles. Let me share the exact release schedule and pricing information I've gathered.
Pre-Order Dates and Retailers
The complete first wave of MASK toys will be available for pre-order starting July 1st, 2025, exclusively through BigBadToyStore. This initial exclusivity gives dedicated collectors a guaranteed opportunity to secure these figures before wider release. Subsequently, expanded distribution will begin on September 2nd, 2025, both in the United States and internationally. This phased release approach appears to be a strategic move to build anticipation throughout the anniversary year while ensuring production can meet demand.
Wave 1 Pricing Tiers and Value
According to official sources, the MASK toys will follow a tiered pricing structure based on size and complexity. The pricing breakdown is as follows: USD 30.00, USD 50.00, USD 75.00, and USD 99.00. Indeed, this collector-focused pricing reflects the premium quality and detailed features incorporated into each vehicle. Whereas smaller vehicles like Condor occupy the lower price points, the flagship MDU commands the highest tier at USD 99.00, certainly justified by its impressive size and multiple play features.
SDCC Exclusive MDU with Scott Trakker and T-Bob
Interestingly, a special San Diego Comic-Con exclusive version of the Mobile Defense Unit has been confirmed for 2025. This exclusive package will feature Scott Trakker (Matt's son from the original series) and his robot companion T-Bob. The SDCC variant will sport a distinctive chrome finish that differentiates it from the standard retail release. Furthermore, this limited edition will come packaged in a vintage-style window display box, enhancing its collectability. Accordingly, the SDCC exclusive MDU will command a premium price of USD 170.00, reflecting its special status among the anniversary releases.
Conclusion
After spending quality time with these reimagined MASK toys, I certainly believe The Loyal Subjects and Hasbro have created something special for the franchise's 40th birthday. These toys successfully walk the fine line between faithful recreation and thoughtful modernization. Collectors who grew up with the originals will undoubtedly appreciate how meticulously the design team preserved iconic vehicle transformations while adding necessary improvements.
The decision to maintain consumer-applied stickers rather than factory-applied ones stands out as particularly respectful of the original experience. Additionally, the improved articulation transforms these figures from simple vehicle drivers into genuinely poseable action figures, significantly enhancing both play and display potential.
Though some naming changes were inevitable due to trademark issues, the vehicles themselves remain instantly recognizable. Thunderhawk still converts from Camaro to jet with the same satisfying button press, albeit now with better detailing and those welcome blast effects.
First-time MASK fans might wonder whether these toys justify their collector-focused price points. Nevertheless, the quality of materials, transformation mechanisms, and included accessories make a compelling case for their value. The four-tiered pricing structure also ensures different entry points for curious newcomers and dedicated collectors alike.
Overall, this 40th anniversary collection feels less like a simple nostalgia cash-in and more like a genuine celebration of what made MASK special. The Loyal Subjects clearly understood that success meant balancing preservation with enhancement. Whether you're revisiting childhood memories or discovering these transforming vehicles for the first time, these MASK toys deliver a worthy update to a beloved classic. MASK has finally returned, and accordingly, the wait has been worthwhile.
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