Masters of the Universe (1980s comics)

Numerous Masters of the Universe comic books were produced to promote the original 1980s toy line. Before the development of the He-Man and the Masters of the Universe television series, comics represented the primary means for establishing the backstory of the line's characters and setting. Many of the core concepts in the Masters of the Universe brand were originally introduced in these comics.

The first minicomics packaged with the toys were produced by Western Publishing, which was a subsidiary of Mattel at the time. DC Comics and Marvel Comics produced additional comics during the course of the franchise.

Minicomics (1981-1986)

 * Main Article: Masters of the Universe (minicomics)

Between 1981 and 1986, a total of forty-nine minicomics were published by Mattel to be included in Masters of the Universe toys. The first wave of four minicomics, written by Donald F. Glut, represented the first backstory for the line's characters. Subsequent minicomics were produced by DC and Marvel as each company picked up the licensing rights.

DC Comics (1982-1983)
In addition to minicomics, DC published the following Masters of the Universe stories:


 * From Eternia -- With Death!
 * Fate is the Killer
 * To Tempt the Gods!
 * The Key to Castle Grayskull
 * Within these Walls.. Armageddon

Marvel Comics (1986-1987)
In 1986 and 1987, Marvel published the following Masters of the Universe stories under its Star Comics imprint:


 * Marvel Age #38
 * Masters of the Universe #1-13
 * Masters of the Universe: The Motion Picture