10 Shows Like Defenders of the Earth (1986)

Description: While 'The Real Ghostbusters' is more comedic, it shares with 'Defenders of the Earth' a team of heroes protecting the world from supernatural threats. Both shows mix action with humor and have a distinctive visual style that appealed to children in the 80s.

Fact: The show was based on the 1984 'Ghostbusters' movie. It was renamed 'The Real Ghostbusters' to avoid confusion with another show. The series developed a complex mythology over its run.

Description: Like 'Defenders of the Earth', 'SilverHawks' is a team-based action series with a sci-fi twist. Both shows feature heroes with unique abilities and futuristic technology, fighting against a recurring villain. The animation style and episodic format are also comparable.

Fact: SilverHawks was created by the same team behind 'ThunderCats'. The show's theme song is highly memorable and distinctive. The characters were part human, part machine, giving them unique abilities.

Description: While 'Exosquad' is more serious in tone, it shares with 'Defenders of the Earth' a narrative about a diverse group of heroes fighting against overwhelming odds. Both shows feature futuristic technology and explore themes of resistance and freedom.

Fact: Exosquad was notable for its serialized storytelling, unusual for cartoons at the time. The show dealt with complex themes like war and racism. It was praised for its character development and mature content.

Description: Similar to 'Defenders of the Earth' in its action-packed, episodic storytelling and heroic themes. Both shows feature a team of heroes fighting against a powerful villain, with a mix of fantasy and sci-fi elements. The visual style of bright colors and dynamic action sequences is also a shared trait.

Fact: He-Man was created to sell Mattel's Masters of the Universe toy line. The character of He-Man is known for his iconic catchphrase, 'By the Power of Grayskull!' The show was notable for its moral lessons at the end of each episode.

Description: Both 'G.I. Joe' and 'Defenders of the Earth' feature a diverse team of heroes with specialized skills fighting against a global threat. The shows share a patriotic tone and a focus on teamwork and strategy, along with action-packed sequences.

Fact: The famous line 'Knowing is half the battle' came from the show's educational segments. The show was part of a massive multimedia franchise including toys and comics. It was known for its detailed character backstories.

Description: Like 'Defenders of the Earth', 'Voltron' is about a team of heroes who combine their powers to form a more powerful entity. Both shows feature a mix of science fiction and fantasy elements, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and heroism.

Fact: Voltron was adapted from the Japanese anime 'Beast King GoLion'. The show popularized the concept of combining robots in Western animation. It had a significant impact on the mecha genre outside Japan.

Description: M.A.S.K. shares with 'Defenders of the Earth' the concept of a covert team using advanced technology to fight evil. Both shows blend action, adventure, and sci-fi, with a focus on vehicles and gadgets that transform or have special abilities.

Fact: M.A.S.K. stood for Mobile Armored Strike Kommand. The show was created to promote a line of action figures and vehicles. Each character had a unique vehicle that could transform.

Description: A spin-off of 'He-Man', 'She-Ra' shares the same universe and many thematic elements with 'Defenders of the Earth', including the battle between good and evil, and the use of magical powers. Both shows target a similar audience with their blend of adventure and fantasy.

Fact: She-Ra was introduced as He-Man's twin sister. The show was aimed at a female audience, which was innovative at the time. She-Ra's sword, similar to He-Man's, could transform and had magical powers.

Description: Like 'Defenders of the Earth', 'Transformers' features a battle between good and evil with a team of heroes. Both shows are known for their action-packed episodes, memorable characters, and the use of transformation as a key element.

Fact: Transformers was based on a line of toys from Hasbro. The show's theme song is one of the most recognizable in animation history. It spawned numerous sequels, movies, and a vast multimedia franchise.

Description: BraveStarr' and 'Defenders of the Earth' both mix science fiction with Western elements, featuring a lone hero with special powers who protects the innocent. The shows share a similar aesthetic and moralistic storytelling approach.

Fact: BraveStarr was one of the few Western-themed animated series of the 80s. The main character had powers based on animal spirits. The show was created by the same team behind 'He-Man'.