Playmates Taps into Nostalgia with Classic Party Wagon for 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'

The Big Picture

TMNT fans can rejoice as Playmates is bringing back the iconic TMNT Party Wagon, complete with accessories and space for up to six Turtle toys.

The Party Wagon was a cherished addition to the original TMNT toy collection in the 80s and 90s, granting children the ability to reenact their preferred episodes and unleash their boundless creativity.

Mutant Mayhem, the recent animated movie, exuded the lasting appeal of the franchise by blending elements from past versions and capturing the vibrant essence of the 80s "Turtle-Mania".

In 2023, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle fans were treated to an incredible year with the release of the animated film Mutant Mayhem in the summer. And now, Playmates is bringing back the iconic TMNT Party Wagon, giving fans another reason to celebrate.

Similar to the original version, this action-packed van can accommodate up to six Playmates Turtles toys and is equipped with a variety of accessories. These include a flip top, a spring-action Foot Tenderizer weapon, Anti-Foot Blasters, and whacko bombs. The original Party Wagon was introduced in 1988 as part of the extensive toy line accompanying the classic 1987 TMNT television show, which ran for ten seasons. Playmates delighted kids of the 80s and 90s with a wide range of Turtle figures including Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo. The line also featured notable villains like Shredder and Krang, as well as allies such as April O' Neil. These larger playsets and vehicles were truly special as they were a pioneering concept for kids at that time.

Whether it was recreating their favorite episodes or inventing new stories with their beloved heroes and villains, sets like the Party Wagon ignited the imaginations of young kids, allowing them to unleash their creativity with limitless Turtle Power. That’s why it is truly wonderful to witness Playmates revisiting their most nostalgic line. While the company has held the TMNT license for many years, producing figures for the 2012 series and Mutant Mayhem, nothing compares to the timeless classics.

Where Can You Stream 'TMNT: Mutant Mayhem?'

Image via Paramount Pictures

Mutant Mayhem, available for streaming on Paramount+ after a modest box office return, received praise for its affection for the franchise, vibrant animation, thrilling action, and outstanding voice work by the all-star cast. It succeeded in portraying a heartwarming and often comedic coming-of-age story that truly captured the essence of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as adolescents. In many ways, it combined the finest elements from previous iterations. The pre-release hype also reignited the enthusiastic and youthful spirit of "Turtle-Mania" from the 80s. While the new toys from playmate contributed, Mutant Mayhem itself served as a powerful reminder for fans as to why TMNT remains one of the most beloved franchises in the world.

While we wait for Mutant Mayhem’s physical media release later this year, you can order your own original TMNT Party Wagon on Entertainment Earth’s website for $39.99 USD.