Hustling Through the Universe: The Unlikely Success of a Toy Legend
Joe Justice here, coming at you on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast. It’s the week after Thanksgiving, and as you can imagine, getting guests this time of year is like finding a needle in a haystack. So, instead, I thought I’d share some marketing stories and concepts that might just give you the edge you’re looking for in growing your business and connecting with new customers.
Today, let’s dive into the fascinating world of the Masters of the Universe toy line, a true icon in the realm of marketing, especially in the ’80s. Now, buckle up because this tale is one for the ages.
Mattel, the toy giant, had the chance to grab the Star Wars toy line but passed on it. Kenner seized the opportunity and struck gold. Mattel, feeling the sting of the missed opportunity, set out to create a toy line with a rich mythology, akin to the Star Wars phenomenon.
Enter Masters of the Universe, a concoction of barbarians, swords, lasers, monsters, and spaceships – a mishmash that defied logical cohesion. But Mattel didn’t let that stop them. They dove into market research, delving into comic books, magazines, and the pulp fiction that young boys were devouring at the time.
What emerged from this chaotic brew was a phrase that would echo through the ages – “I have the power.” The empowerment concept struck a chord with young boys who felt overshadowed. Mattel embraced this, and it became a pivotal part of the toy line’s success.
Now, here’s the kicker – there was no grand plan. No meticulously crafted storyline or intricate character interactions. Mattel threw ideas against the wall, listened to what resonated with their young audience, and adapted on the fly. The result? A seemingly nonsensical mix of characters and storylines that somehow clicked.
They avoided the trap of overthinking, the paralysis by analysis that often plagues entrepreneurs. Mattel didn’t wait for perfection; they embraced imperfection and learned from it. The Masters of the Universe became a cultural phenomenon, not just as toys but also as a Saturday morning cartoon – a half-hour commercial that captivated audiences. So, what’s the lesson here? Don’t be afraid to fail fast. Take risks, try ideas, and adapt quickly. Not everything needs to be perfectly planned. The success of Masters of the Universe proves that sometimes, the most unconventional, haphazard approach can lead to monumental success.