Leonardo, one of the best-selling Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, will be joined by new characters when the heroes return

One of the most successful toy series of all time the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, produced by Hong Kong company Playmates, has been reintroduced. The turtles, a must-have item for every young boy during the late 1980s, were recently named among the top 100 toys of the 20th century by the United States Toy Industry Association.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are a series of action figures who had distinctive appearances and were expert in various kung fu disciplines.

Living in city sewers and emerging to perform heroic rescues and other good deeds, the turtles first appeared in a popular action comic series that ultimately spawned a television show, movies produced by Hong Kong's Golden Harvest, and best-selling action figures made by Playmates.

Each of the toy turtles - Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo - had a distinctive look and proved hugely successful for Playmates during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The relaunch is based on the premise that young kids of today, too, will be captivated by the "heroes in a half shell."

"We are very excited about the initial kick-off which began with the new animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles show that premiered in the US," said Vincent D' Alleva, vice-president of boys marketing for Playmates Toys Inc. "The initial reaction is very positive."

In addition to the four famous main characters, there will be various other figures, some familiar, some new, planned for staggered release. Splinter the Shredder and the Foot Soldier will be the first, followed by April O'Neil, Casey Jones and Hun figures. Later this year children will be able to buy the Nanotech Monster, Skatin' Ralph, Thrashin' Mike, Scootin' Leo and the Foot Tech Ninja.

Each model will retail in the US for around HK$47 (US$6). Executives of Playmates say the simplicity of the turtles remains a major part of the appeal. The new-look turtles will be slightly larger - 18 cms tall - and be able to move their necks, shoulders, biceps, wrists and thighs.

In addition, there will be a whole host of accessories including a "shell cell communicator", which will allow the turtles to speak. Giant Turtles, measuring 30 cm, will also be among the Playmates-produced range, along with a truck equipped with a winch, torpedoes and missiles.

"A great television show, great toys, and great advertising all add up to kids shouting 'I love being a turtle' all over the world," added Mr D'Alleva.

Related link:
Playmates  www.playmatestoys.com/html/turtles_main.html