Quick History of Action Force!

Valaverse is a company founded by Bobby Vala, a former Hasbro designer, aiming to create a new action figure line called "Action Force." Vala, with his background in designing action figures, sought to bring back the nostalgic feel of 3.75-inch scale military-themed action figures. The Valaverse Action Force line was created with a focus on high-quality sculpting, articulation, and attention to detail, appealing to both collectors and fans of military-themed toys. Vala actively engages with the Action Force community through social media and other channels. This direct interaction allows fans to provide input, share their ideas, and stay informed about the latest developments in the Action Force toyline.

To bring Action Force to life, Bobby Vala utilized crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter. Crowdfunding campaigns were launched to generate support and funding for the production of Action Force figures, vehicles, and playsets. These campaigns allowed fans to contribute and, in return, receive exclusive figures or rewards. The figures in the Action Force line are designed to be highly customizable, with interchangeable parts and accessories, allowing fans to create their own unique characters and scenarios. The line included various military-themed characters, vehicles, and playsets, tapping into a niche market of collectors who appreciated the classic aesthetic of military action figures.

Action Force has a historical connection to G.I. Joe that dates back to the 1980s. Action Force initially began as a European version of the G.I. Joe toyline, rebranded to suit the preferences and tastes of the international market. Initially, Action Force emerged in the early 1980s as a line of action figures and vehicles produced by Palitoy, a British toy company. Palitoy secured the license from Hasbro, the American company behind G.I. Joe, to distribute a modified version of the G.I. Joe toyline in the United Kingdom and other European markets. To tailor the toyline to European audiences and to avoid potential political sensitivities associated with the term "G.I. Joe" in some countries, Palitoy rebranded the line as "Action Force." The characters and vehicles underwent changes in design and nomenclature, but the core concept of military-themed action figures remained intact.    

Palitoy played a crucial role in shaping the Action Force brand. The company introduced new characters, vehicles, and storylines that were specific to the European version of the toyline. This allowed Action Force to develop its own identity while still maintaining the essence of the G.I. Joe concept. While the figures shared similar designs and molds, the storylines for G.I. Joe and Action Force diverged. The comics and animated series produced for each line had unique narratives and character backgrounds, creating distinct experiences for fans in different regions. The Action Force toyline became a beloved brand in its own right, earning a dedicated fanbase in Europe. When Palitoy ceased operations in the mid-1980s, the Action Force brand eventually transitioned back to Hasbro. However, the legacy of Action Force continues, and the connection to G.I. Joe remains a notable chapter in the history of both toy lines.

While Action Force and G.I. Joe share a historical link, they have evolved independently, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal to collectors and fans of military-themed action figures. Action Force and G.I. Joe share a historical connection, but they also have notable differences.

 In its modern independent revival, Action Force figures are typically 6 inches in height, aligning with the scale popularized by contemporary lines like Marvel Legends and G.I. Joe Classified while there are now currently limited characters being introduced. G.I. Joe figures have been produced in various scales over the years, but the classic 3.75-inch scale is perhaps the most iconic. The G.I. Joe Classified series, introduced in recent years, follows the 6-inch scale trend. Additionally, Hasbro is starting to allow other companies to make more of the franchise such as Super7, McFarlane, and a few others.

Palitoy was a British toy company with a rich history in the toy industry. Palitoy was founded in 1919 in Coalville, Leicestershire, United Kingdom, by Alfred Pallett. The company initially focused on producing cardboard products. In the 1930s, Palitoy shifted its focus to the production of toys and games. The company gained popularity for manufacturing a variety of toys, including dolls, construction sets, and board games. After World War II, Palitoy experienced significant growth and expansion. The company adapted to the changing market demands and became one of the leading toy manufacturers in the United Kingdom.

One of Palitoy's most significant contributions to the toy industry was the introduction of Action Man in 1966. Modeled after Hasbro's G.I. Joe, Action Man became a highly successful line of action figures and accessories, catering to the interests of young boys who were fascinated by military and adventure themes. In the 1980s, Palitoy secured the license from Hasbro to distribute a modified version of the G.I. Joe toyline in the UK and other European markets. This rebranded line was known as Action Force, featuring its own unique characters and storylines. Despite its earlier successes, Palitoy faced financial challenges in the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1980, the company was acquired by the American toy company Hasbro.

By 1984, Hasbro decided to close the Palitoy factory in Coalville, marking the end of Palitoy as an independent entity. The closure led to the loss of jobs for many employees, and the production of toys was shifted to other Hasbro facilities. Palitoy left an enduring legacy in the world of toys, particularly for its contributions to action figures and adventure-themed toys. Action Man and Action Force remain iconic toy lines, fondly remembered by collectors and enthusiasts. Now with Valaverse revisiting and revamping the line, it'll be exciting to see where it goes from here!