It’s the story, stupid – how I learned to love the new sculpt era again
It started with an interesting website article that was posted by a friend of mine a short while ago. An opinion piece from Toy News Online which mentioned the need for narrative stories in children’s toys today. I know us collectors don’t like to think of what we buy as “children’s toys” but at the core of our consciousness, I think we all understand that’s where this journey began.
Over the past few years, Hasbro has been producing some of the best toys they have made in a very, very long time…if not ever. Using amazing inspiration from past G.I. Joe toys, other 80’s influences, and lots of great modern military equipment, the G.I. Joe team of 2010 – 2013 is an amazing collection of fantastically articulated, amazingly produced toys.
There’s only one problem… who are these guys? Who are they fighting? Why are they fighting? Why is Destro, who typically is a behind-the-scenes guy, strapping on a thick armored body suit and jumping into the action with a chain gun? Why is Cobra Commander now wearing a skull mask and metal chest plate? Does this story take place after the Rise of Cobra, or have we spun out into yet another universe. I’ve been somewhat surprised to see that other collectors don’t seem to be curious about these things. Sure, I might get flak for not having enough “imagination” but at some point I think a narrative voice is necessary to breath life into these characters. If not necessary, it sure as hell helps.
Click the Read the Rest of the Story link below for the full article.