For fans of retro playthings, the ultimate crossover event has arrived. The Toys That Made Us, the documentary series that dug deep into the history of iconic toy lines, is launching a Kickstarter campaign that brings together beloved characters from multiple classic brands. And we've got an exclusive first look at the stunning wraparound cover for Nacelleverse: Year Zero, the collected edition of all-new comics featuring these cult-favorite toys.
The Kickstarter, a collaboration between Nacelle (the production company behind the series) and Oni Press, aims to fund The Art of The Toys That Made Us, a handsome hardcover collecting behind-the-scenes artwork from the show. But the real draw for collectors is Nacelleverse: Year Zero, a comic anthology that unites characters from Robo Force, Biker Mice From Mars, Sectaurs, Power Lords, The Wild West C.O.W. Boys of Moo Mesa, and The Great Garloo. It's a nostalgic fever dream that feels like a lost Saturday morning cartoon lineup.
The cover, created by Canadian artist Karl Kerschl (known for Gotham Academy), packs decades of toy history into one image. You'll see the hulking mechanoids of Robo Force standing alongside the leather-clad rodents of Biker Mice From Mars, while insectoid warriors from Sectaurs and mystical figures from Power Lords fill the frame. It's a visual feast that captures the wild diversity of these properties, from sci-fi to western to fantasy.
Inside, an all-star roster of comic creators brings these worlds to life. The lineup includes Melissa Flores (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Matt Hotson (Power Rangers: The Return), Francis Portela (Black Panther), Juan Gedeon (Venom), and V Ken Marion (Green Lantern), among others. Each story promises to honor the original toy lore while expanding the Nacelleverse in fresh directions.
For those unfamiliar, The Toys That Made Us originally aired on Netflix, running three seasons that explored everything from Barbie and LEGO to Masters of the Universe and Star Wars. After a hiatus, two more seasons are in the works, covering Hot Wheels, Ghostbusters, and Polly Pocket. The series is known for its deep dives into toy history, featuring archival footage and interviews with creators, executives, and superfans.
Backers of the Kickstarter can snag exclusive merch like hats, wallets, VHS tapes, and lunch boxes. The first 100 supporters pledging over $100 USD will also receive an exclusive figure of Robo Force's TERBL. It's a treasure trove for anyone who grew up in the golden age of action figures.
This isn't just a nostalgia trip—it's a chance to see these characters reimagined by top-tier talent. Whether you're a die-hard collector or a casual fan of retro pop culture, Nacelleverse: Year Zero offers a fresh take on the toys that shaped a generation. The Kickstarter is live now, so don't miss your chance to be part of this crossover event.
For more on the intersection of classic toys and modern storytelling, check out our coverage of Stardew Valley Meets Magic: The Gathering in Surprise Moonlight Jellies Crossover or dive into The Ultimate Guide to the Best Mindless Horror Movies Ever Made. And if you're in the mood for a different kind of crossover, Top Gun: Maverick Soars Into Battlefield 6 in Epic August Crossover might be right up your alley.
