5 More Great 1980s Animated Shows Not Enough People Remember

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The 1980s were a fantastic time for animated shows, launching many beloved franchises like Transformers, Thundercats, G.I. Joe, and DuckTales. Even lesser-known shows like Dino-Riders and M.A.S.K. captured the hearts of kids growing up in that decade. While many of these classics are well-remembered, we’ve rounded up 5 more great 80s cartoons that deserve a second look.

5. SilverHawks

Both ThunderCats and SilverHawks were animated series created by Rankin/Bass Productions, and they shared some common elements. While both shows featured aliens and exciting fights with advanced technology, SilverHawks took place mainly in outer space, giving it a stronger focus on cosmic adventures.

The show featured a fantastic group of heroes – Quicksilver, Steelheart, Steelwill, The Copper Kidd, and the talented musician Bluegrass. It was full of exciting, fast-paced action with a unique style focused on aerial combat. Although it was cancelled after just one season, it’s become a beloved classic and is definitely worth checking out if you haven’t seen it.

4. The World of David The Gnome

The 1980s had lots of sci-fi and superhero shows, but it also offered plenty of feel-good entertainment, and one standout was The World of David the Gnome. This animated series, which began in 1985, was inspired by the children’s book The Secret Book of Gnomes. It followed David, Lisa, Swift the Fox, and their friends as they worked to safeguard the ancient trees—and their family history.

Tom Bosley’s narration as David is one of the most memorable parts of the show, perfectly capturing its lighthearted and playful tone. The charming animation beautifully brought the Gnomes and their world to life. While the series had its share of adventure, it was the show’s overall sweetness that truly stood out, making it well worth watching, especially for first-time viewers.

3. Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs

As soon as I watched just a little bit of Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs, I immediately knew it was pure 80s – and honestly, it still looks great! What’s really interesting is that the show wasn’t originally made as Saber Rider. It was actually put together using footage from a Japanese anime called Star Musketeer Bismarck. The company that brought it over, WEP, also did the English dub of Voltron, so they knew how to make a cool space adventure!

While Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs wasn’t as popular as Voltron, it’s still worth checking out. The show is set in the future, where humans live on planets across the universe. Protecting them from dangerous villains called the Outriders is the job of a special team known as the Star Sheriffs. If you enjoy great music and exciting battles featuring jets, futuristic cavalry riding robotic horses, and giant robots, you’ll love this show – every fight feels huge! And the story itself is surprisingly good, making it a fun choice if you’re looking for something a little different.

2. Danger Mouse

Danger Mouse and Penfold were a memorable 80s cartoon duo. Danger Mouse’s distinct British style and clever humor perfectly blended with the James Bond-inspired spy themes. The show was consistently funny and self-aware, featuring smart narration and playful conversations even during action scenes.

The show featured wonderfully designed characters, like the villainous Baron Silas Greenback and his pet Nero, along with memorable figures such as Colonel K, Professor Von Squawkencluck, and J.J. Quark. Even Danger Mouse’s car was incredibly cool, all adding up to a funny and stylish parody of secret agent adventures that remains enjoyable today.

1. Ulysses 31

Topping our list is Ulysses 31, a show that American viewers only got to see for half a season, but it left a lasting impact. This ambitious series reimagined Homer’s classic Odyssey with a futuristic, space-age twist, following Ulysses’ difficult journey home, complicated by the wrath and interference of Zeus. Even years later, it remains a truly impressive show.

Honestly, this show blew me away when it first came out, and it still does! Everything was so beautifully detailed, from the worlds they created to the characters themselves. And the action? Forget about it – huge battles, amazing visuals, and just a really cool style. What I really appreciated was that it wasn’t afraid to tackle some serious themes, and the characters always kept you guessing. It wasn’t flawless, sure, but it definitely deserved more attention back then, and I truly believe it’s worth checking out now – you won’t be disappointed.

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2026-04-03 04:41