Oni Press and The Nacelle Company have launched a Kickstarter campaign for a new multi-volume book set titled The Art of The Toys That Made Us. This collection aims to explore the artwork, advertising, and concept designs behind the toy brands featured in the popular Netflix documentary series.
The two-volume slipcase hardcover edition will delve into the history of iconic toylines such as Masters of the Universe and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, providing fans with a comprehensive look at their visual development. The Kickstarter campaign also includes a variety of optional bonus items, including enamel pins, nylon wallets, lunchboxes, and trucker hats.
Exclusive to the campaign are one-of-a-kind Biker Mice From Mars figures. Each figure comes with a unique hand-drawn sketch on its packaging from artists like Juan Gedeon, V Ken Marion, and Dustin Weaver. Only 15 of these special figures are available in total.
In addition to The Art of The Toys That Made Us, the campaign features another hardcover book, Nacelleverse: Year Zero. This book compiles the early comics that establish the shared Nacelleverse, bringing together franchises like Biker Mice From Mars, RoboForce, Secaturs, Power Lords, and C.O.W.–Boys of Moo Mesa.
Nacelle Founder and CEO Brian Volk-Weiss stated that the book series is an opportunity to bring "relics" from the documentary's cutting room floor to the forefront. He expressed his aim to create a "meaningful compliment" to the on-screen content. Oni's Director of Business Development, Sam Kusek, added that the campaign is designed to offer fans a comprehensive experience, with meticulous work being done to ensure that "no stone is left unturned."
The Netflix series The Toys That Made Us has been renewed for Seasons 4 and 5. The campaign's launch follows this news, offering fans a new way to engage with the beloved franchise beyond the streaming episodes.