The 90’s were an interesting time for G.I. Joe.  The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with their bright neon colors were dominating store shelves and ninjas were EVERYWHERE in popular culture.  Video games were more popular than ever and a certain band of Real American Heroes didn’t seem to have the luster that they once did.

So, what was a toy line to do?  Well, as the saying goes:  if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em!

G.I. Joe did what it did best and adapted– becoming more ninja-centric and much more neon.  The brand even co-opted Street Fighter II and tried to portray it as a “sister line”.  Results were mixed at best; you know you’re in trouble when the new-comers are beating up one of the main characters in your lineup.

Take a look at this 90’s gem that features live-action portrayals of both the Joes and the cast of Street Fighter II.