NEW FIELD NOTES · AUGUST 31, 2026
Three 1980s toy-box giants that are still being made
Transformers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Cabbage Patch Kids are all current products—but each survived in a different way.
We checked current brand-owner or manufacturer evidence for every entry. A revival is identified as a revival, and a familiar name does not erase meaningful changes in scale, construction or intended audience.
MORE THAN MEETS THE MEMORY
Transformers
The robots still change into vehicles, but today’s shelves range from kid-friendly figures to intricate versions built around the 1986 movie.
THE ORIGINAL SCULPTS SURFACED AGAIN
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
The heroes in a half shell never left for long—and Playmates now sells classic figures that deliberately return to the 1988 toy designs.
THE ADOPTION PAPERS SURVIVED
Cabbage Patch Kids
The dolls are still adopted rather than merely bought, complete with names, birth certificates and a surprisingly wide range of current sizes.