Cartoons have captivated audiences of all ages for decades, offering a vibrant mix of humor, escapism, relatable stories, and emotional connection. Whether you’re seeking a laugh, a break from reality, or a trip down memory lane, cartoons have something for everyone.
This enduring appeal is why 1980s cartoons remain popular even today. Adults who grew up with these shows still cherish them, and for good reason!
To help you rediscover some gems, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best 1980s cartoons based on IMDb user ratings.
10 Best 1980s Cartoons That Made Your Childhood Unforgettable
1. The Simpsons (1989–present)
- IMDB rating: 8.7/10
Airing since December 1989, The Simpsons, created by Matt Groening, holds the title of the longest-running American animated series. This satirical sitcom follows the eccentric Simpson family (Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, & Maggie) in the fictional town of Springfield. Beyond wacky antics, the show tackles surprisingly complex themes, ranging from American culture and media to the human condition itself.
The Simpsons has garnered a devoted fan base over its impressive 35-season run, with iconic episodes like Cape Feare, Last Exit to Springfield, and Who Shot Mr. Burns? still fondly remembered.
2. Transformers (1984–1987)
- IMDB rating: 8/10
Hasbro and Takara Tomy’s Transformers roared onto the scene from 1984 to 1987, captivating audiences for four seasons and 98 episodes. This animated series transported viewers to a world where alien robots, the Autobots and Decepticons, waged an epic war. With the ability to transform into vehicles and other objects, their battles threatened to shake the very foundation of Earth.
The series left a lasting mark, spawning popular episodes like S.O.S. Dinobots, Day of the Machines, and Transport to Oblivion.
3. DuckTales (1987–1990)
- IMDB rating: 8/10
Developed by Jymm Magon, DuckTales premiered in 1987 and quickly became a beloved Disney classic. The series follows the wealthy Scrooge McDuck on thrilling treasure hunts with his mischievous grandnephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie. Along the way, they unearth family secrets and face off against outrageous villains.
The animated series delighted audiences for four seasons and 100 episodes. Catchphrases like “Woo-oo!” and popular episodes like What Ever Happened to Della Duck? and Quack Pack! continue to be cherished by fans.
4. ThunderCats (1985–1989)
- IMDB rating: 7.9/10
ThunderCats is a sci-fi fantasy adventure that follows a band of cat-like humanoid aliens who flee their dying planet and find refuge on Third Earth. Led by the courageous Lion-O, they wield the legendary Sword of Omens to defend their new home from evil mutants and other threats.
The animated series spanned four seasons and 130 episodes. Memorable episodes include The Last Day, chronicling their escape from Thundera; Exodus, their arrival on Third Earth; and Return to Thundera, hinting at their future.
5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987-1996)
- IMDB rating: 7.9/10
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is based on the comic book characters created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. It is about four brothers: Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michelangelo—but these aren’t your average turtles.
They were transformed by ooze into humanoids and trained under their wise rat sensei, Splinter (who was once human himself). Together, these heroes in a half shell face the villainous Shredder and his Foot Clan, protecting New York City from the shadows.
The series has 10 seasons with 193 exciting episodes, keeping you hooked with adventures like Return to the Shredder, A Thing About Rats, and Splinter No More.
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6. Voltron: Defender of the Universe (1984–1985)
- IMDB rating: 7.9/10
This animated adventure, adapted from a Japanese super robot anime, follows a team of courageous pilots, who control five powerful lions. Together, they form the mighty Voltron, a colossal robot that stands against the evil forces of King Zarkon and his cunning son, Prince Lotor.
Through 3 seasons and 124 episodes, Voltron takes you on a thrilling ride for epic clashes and unforgettable adventures with episodes like Space Mall, The Blade of Marmora, and The Ghost in the Lion.
7. The Real Ghostbusters (1986–1991)
- IMDB rating: 7.6/10
This wacky animated series based on Ghostbusters by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis captures the spooky fun of the Ghostbusters franchise.
Join parapsychologist Egon, wise guy Peter Venkman, architect Ray Stantz, and Winston Zeddemore as they run their ghostbusting business in New York City. Slimer, the mischievous green ghost, adds a touch of humor to their ghostly encounters.
For seven seasons and 140 episodes, The Real Ghostbusters battled ghouls and phantoms in popular episodes like When Halloween Was Forever, Citizen Ghost, and The Devil Pay
8. Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (1989–1990)
- IMDB rating: 7.6/10
Chip and Dale weren’t your average chipmunks. These two furry friends, together with their gadget-wielding mouse mechanic Gadget Hackwrench, Monterey Jack, and Zipper the Fly, formed a detective agency—the Rescue Rangers!
Taking on cases “too small” for the police, this chipmunk-led crew tackled mysteries, rescued critters in peril, and outsmarted villains like the blustery Fat Cat and the nutty scientist Norton Nimnul.
The animated series three seasons and 65 episodes of adventure made Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers a delight. Dale Beside Himself, Double ‘O’ Chipmunk, and Seer No Evil are some of the series’ popular episodes.
9. He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (1983–1985)
- IMDB rating: 7.5/10
Regarded as one of the most popular animated series of the 1980s, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe roared onto the scene with a mighty two seasons and 65 episodes.
Prince Adam of Eternia defends his world from the evil Skeletor with the help of his magical transformation into He-Man, the most powerful man in the universe. He fights alongside Teela, Man-At-Arms, Orko, and other brave heroes, battling Skeletor’s monstrous minions and protecting the secrets of Castle Grayskull.
Some popular episodes from the animated series include To Save Skeletor, The Rainbow Warrior, and Orko’s New Friend.
10. Muppet Babies (1984–1991)
- IMDB rating: 7.5/10
This adorable series, spanning 8 seasons and over 100 episodes, features baby versions of your favorite Muppets like Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, and Gonzo.
Led by their kindly nanny, Nanny, the Muppet Babies embark on fantastical adventures fueled by their incredible imaginations. They might become pirates searching for buried treasure, brave astronauts exploring outer space, or even daring detectives solving mysteries in their playroom.
With catchy songs, funny antics, and heartwarming moments, Muppet Babies captured the joyful spirit of childhood for a generation of viewers. Some of its popular episodes include My Muppet Valentine, Invasion of the Muppet Snackers, and Counting Kermits.
Other Popular 1980s Cartons
- Adventures of the Gummi Bears (1985–1991)
- Smurfs (1981-1989)
- David the Gnome (1985–1987)
- Count Duckula (1988-1993)
- Danger Mouse (1981-1992)
- The Adventures of Teddy Ruxpin (1987–1988)
- G.I. Joe (1983)
- Alvin and the Chipmunks (1983–1990)
- The Care Bears (1986–1988)
- My Little Pony (1986–1987)
