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Dinosaucers
Dinosaucers
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Dinosaucers
Title screen
GenreAction
Animation
Created byMichael E. Uslan
Written byDiane Duane
Brynne Stephens
Lydia C. Marano
Directed byStephan Martinière
Starring
Composers
Country of origin
  • United States
  • Canada
Original languageEnglish
No. of seasons1
No. of episodes65
Production
Executive producers
ProducerMichael Maliani
Running time22 minutes
Production companiesDIC Animation City
Lightyear Entertainment
Coca-Cola Telecommunications
Original release
NetworkSyndication
ReleaseSeptember 14 (1987-09-14) –
December 11, 1987 (1987-12-11)

Dinosaucers is a 1987 animated television series co-produced in the United States and Canada; developed and produced by DIC Animation City in association with Lightyear Entertainment and Coca-Cola Telecommunications.[1] The show was created by producer Michael E. Uslan, who considered it a "harebrained idea".[2] Despite only running for one season, it did run for a total of 65 episodes as ordered to be a 13-week-long series, when it aired on first-run syndication.[3]

Plot

[edit]

"Ryan: We used to be four ordinary teenagers, until one day...we meet some new friends...from out of town. They were called... Dinosaucers! My friends and I became the Secret Scouts! Allies to these Dinosaucers from outer space and joined in their battles against Genghis Rex and the evil Tyrannos!
Ankylo: The Dinosaucers are leaving Bossasaur (snort!)
Genghis: Well, follow them!"

- opening narration

The show follows the Dinosaucers and their battles against the evil Tyrannos.[4] Each group is composed of intelligent anthropomorphic dinosaurs or other prehistoric saurian species. The Dinosaucers are also allied with four humans known as the Secret Scouts. The two groups originally come from a planet in a counter-Earth orbit known as Reptilon. Most of the characters are named after the type of prehistoric animal they are based on, or some pun of the name.

Both groups have a central base of operations. The Dinosaucers' base is called Lava Dome and is located in a mountain area in a dormant volcano. The Tyrannos' base is located under a tar pit which is next to an abandoned amusement park. Each of the groups' members save for Teryx and Terrible Dactyl–who can themselves fly–have flying ships in which they can travel and do battle. Most ships actually resemble the personae of their respective owners. Along with their individual ships, both groups have a large mothership of sorts as well.

Dinovolving

[edit]

All the Dinosaucers have a button on the front of their uniforms which instantly devolves them to their primitive ancestors dinosaur state, while retaining their intelligence and speech capacity. This special ability is called Dinovolving and initially appeared to be a significant element of the series, as both Allo and Bronto Thunder Dinovolved in the first episode. Despite the apparent technological advantage, most of the later episodes did not feature any Dinovolving. Teryx was the only Dinosaucer who would never Dinovolve throughout the series, while Allo, Tricero, Bonehead and Bronto Thunder would use the ability in more than one episode.

The Tyrannos do not have the secret of Dinovolving, and a few episodes even revolve around their plans to steal the technology somehow. However, they do possess a special raygun called a devolver. Blasting a living creature with this weapon has the same "devolving" effect as Dinovolving, but reduces the victim's intelligence to that of the devolved form. For those from Reptilon, the form is that of a normal dinosaur while humans get reverted to primitive cavemen. In any case, the device often winds up being used against them, to much comedic effect, rather than on the Dinosaucers. In this fashion, Genghis Rex, Ankylo, Quackpot and Brachio were all changed into primitive dinosaurs at various times in the series. The Tyrannos also possess a weapon called a "fossilizer", which is capable of turning its target into stone, as well as reversing the condition. The Dinosaucers were also shown to have access to this particular type of weapon in one episode, though it may have been on loan from the Tyrannos, as both factions had united to battle a group of anthropomorphic sabertooth tigers, who also hailed from Reptilon. These creatures possessed fossilizers as well, and also had a device which could disrupt the equivalent weapons belonging to the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos while leaving their own in perfect working order.

Characters

[edit]

Dinosaucers

[edit]
  • Allo (voiced by Len Carlson): An evolved Allosaurus and the leader of the Dinosaucers. Allo is calm, collected and serious. He wears blue and teal armor, a teal helmet, and goes barefooted and has brown skin. He has a wife, named Vera, a daughter, named Alloetta and, even a maid, named Gatormaid (a play on Gatorade). He is the nephew of the Dinosorceror and Dinosorceress, rulers of Reptilon. His address on Reptilon is "where Palmer Avenue meets Emerson and Lake". He can dinovolve, into a 40-foot Allosaurus.
  • Dimetro (voiced by Chris Wiggins): A member of the Dinosaucers and Allo's assistant. Dimetro is the scientist and mechanic of the group. He wears brown and red armor, a blue mask on his head, has aqua green skin and speaks, with a slight Scottish accent. Dimetro is an evolved Dimetrodon, which is a basal synapsid or proto-mammal, rather than a dinosaur. He can dinovolve, into a large Dimetrodon.
  • Bronto Thunder (voiced by Marvin Goldhar): An evolved Brontosaurus. Bronto Thunder has a girlfriend, named Apatty Saurus and was a "rep" for a ceramic tile shop, before he became a Dinosaucer. Bronto Thunder's name is an example of a tautology, as "bronto" means "thunder" in Ancient Greek. Physically considered the strongest of the Dinosaucers. He can Dinovolve into an 80-foot Apatosaurus.
  • Stego (voiced by Ray Kahnert): An evolved Stegosaurus and a quite dim-witted recruit, when compared to the rest of the team. He tries to be brave, but is prone to panic attacks and general cowardice. But he often manages to get through this and has come to the rescue of his friends, particularly in the episode Trouble in Paradise. Stego can pull his head inside his Dinosaucers' uniform, much like a turtle. Stego also has an armored space ship similar to his race of Stegosaurs. Stego is a very powerful hand-to-hand combatant, who does not realize his own strength. He can dinovolve, into a 30-foot Stegosaurus, although he was never seen doing so in the series at all.
  • Tricero (voiced by Rob Cowan): An evolved Triceratops. He had a history for doing investigative work back on Reptilon, and provides a voice of calm reason. Tricero was a member of the law-enforcing Tricerocops on Reptilon, before he became a Dinosaucer. Tricero has a vibrational super power that, emanates from his 2 brow horns. He is the mortal enemy of Styraco. He can Dinovolve into a 30-foot Triceratops.
  • Bonehead (voiced by Marvin Goldhar): He is the nephew of Allo and is not, particularly bright as his name suggests. But he does sometimes display intelligence in a mostly literal way. He has a younger brother, named Numbskull, whose nickname is "Nummy". Mother Bonehilda is a famous scientist and the sister of Allo. Bonehead is an evolved Pachycephalosaurus. He is good natured and innocent, without a doubt the dumbest Dinosaucer, even though he has great combat skills as a Pachycephalosaurus. He can dinovolve, into a 25-foot Pachycephalosaurus.
  • Ichy (voiced by Thick Wilson): Ichy, whose name is pronounced "Icky", is an evolved Ichthyosaurus, a prehistoric aquatic reptile. He has a pointed beak, a tail, with fins or flukes, grey skin and wears green armor. He also wears dark green flippers on his feet, instead of boots. Ichy and Plesio can talk to sea creatures. Throughout the series, initially oblivious of her mutuality, he forms a couple, with Teryx, since the episode For the Love of Teryx. This is heavily, implied, because, since then his love is reciprocal and he becomes very distressed when Teryx is approached, by Genghis Rex, who also possess feelings for her, although these are not corresponded. He can Dinovolve into a 30-foot Ichthyosaurus.
  • Teryx (voiced by Louise Vallance): The only female Dinosaucer. She is an evolved Archaeopteryx, which is a derived theropod dinosaur, considered to be the first "actual" bird. She is therefore, either half-bird, half-reptile or an avian reptile. She has white, blue, and salmon-colored plumage and, unlike the other Dinosaucers, wears a simple backpack in lieu of armor. She can understand and talk to birds. Teryx has a crush on Ichy, but fears it will not work out, because she is a flying creature, well Ichy is aquatic, although she comes around it and gains confidence in herself as the series progresses, even forming a pair with Ichy, since the episode For the Love of Teryx. Simultaneously, Teryx completely denies Genghis Rex's advances. Despite doing so, she understands him and, despite stating she has no romantic feelings for Rex in the episode Scales of Justice, she does seem to feel pity towards him. But her feminine charms have been used against Genghis Rex, since his affection for her prevents him from sometimes harming her or, even plotting against the Dinosaucers. Teryx used to be an actress on Reptilon's daytime television, before she became a Dinosaucer. She can Dinovolve, into a large Archaeopteryx, although she is never seen doing so, during the course of the series at all. Teryx was turned, into a human, during the episode Cindersaurus, as the group had developed a technology called the Dinotransformatter that, would, allow them to transform, into humans, ironically, had created seemingly for sole the purpose of, allowing Teryx to attend a masquerade ball, with Sara, due to her having developed an interest in human courting rituals and briefly had an attraction to a human at Sara's school, named Douglas. Returned to normal, by the episode's end, the character has, since had no romantic interest in humans and the plot point of the Dinosaucers having a technology that, would, allow them to take on human form was forgotten. Presumably, they still possess the device, but it has become a forgotten piece of their arsenal. This episode was aired after the episode For the Love of Teryx, but may take place, before it chronologically, as Teryx did seem to have a genuine attraction to Douglas, something, which would contradict the fact of her relationship, with Ichy, established fifteen episodes, before, barring an off-screen breakup that, may not have been mentioned. But her attraction may have been caused, by the alteration from Dinosaucer to human, although, if this is so, it may have some lingering effect, as Teryx is seen at the end of the episode to still find the time spent, with Douglas to be apparently a brief period of genuine romance.

Secret Scouts

[edit]

The Secret Scouts are four teenage humans who help the Dinosaucers as allies. According to the opening credits, they met them when they first arrived and gained powers through magic rings they were given. They are some of the closest friends the Dinosaucers have while they are on Earth.

The Secret Scouts. From left to right: Sara, Paul, Ryan and David
  • Ryan Spencer (voiced by Simon Reynolds): A blond haired boy, who is apparently the most intelligent and athletic of the group; this, in the well, implies that, he is the leader of the Scouts. He does not seem to get into as much trouble as his three friends do.
  • Sara Spencer (voiced by Barbara Lynn Redpath): A blond-haired girl and the younger sister of Ryan. She is quite athletic and informative, often teaching the Dinosaucers, but confusing to them, Earth-related notions. With her ring power, she can strongly boost her physical abilities a little more than that, of an olympic athlete, allowing her to jump at amazing heights, run faster and be more agile. She has a pet cat named Missy. She often goes on adventures, with Bronto Thunder and relates very well to Teryx.
  • Paul (voiced by Richard Yearwood): An intelligent bespectacled African-American boy. He seems to find the Dinosaucers thrilling and fun. He also has a pet dog, named Charlie, who sometimes causes a lot of trouble for the Dinosaucers in multiple episodes. His Scout ring lets him run at enhanced speed over long distances. He generally spends a lot of time, with Dimetro.
  • David (voiced by Leslie Toth): A black-haired boy and the wild one of the Scouts. He often gets, into trouble and, makes matters worse, by getting the Dinosaucers involved in his "act-first and think-second" tactics. He is strong and athletic, and although he does not quite have the sharp intellect of Paul and Ryan, he is creative and a quick thinker. He is often involved in multiple adventures, with Stego and Bonehead. His ring can increase his strength, allowing him to lift objects weighing, several hundred pounds.

Tyrannos

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The Evil Tyrannos. From left to right: Styraco, Plesio, Genghis Rex, Quackpot, Brachio, Ankylo and Terrible Dactyl

The Tyrannos are the forces of "evil" in the series and, like the Dinosaucers, have a total of 8 members in their group. The picture above does not show Princess Dei, as she does not appear at the presentation of the series and is only introduced later as a means to balance the difference in numbers and power of the two opposing factions.

During the course of the series, Plesio, Terrible Dactyl and Quackpot would all betray Genghis Rex at least once over matters of conscience. Despite this, they would eventually return to Rex's side out of loyalty to his cause.

  • Genghis Rex (voiced by Dan Hennessey): Usually referred to as simply "Rex", Genghis Rex is the leader of the Tyrannos, as well as the evil counterpart of Allo. He is an evolved Tyrannosaurus, has red skin and wears orange, blue armor and goes barefooted. His first name is based on Genghis Khan, the famous Mongol. Living up to his species' reputation, he is brutal and tyrannical, and has a violent temper. He appears in every episode except for episode 13, Trick or Cheat, and episode 59, The Babysitter, in which Quackpot was the sole Tyranno to appear and episode 35, Fine-Feathered Friends and episode 51, Dinosaur Dundy, in which none of the Tyrannos appear. Typically, Rex will insult his compatriots with plays on dinosaur words or names, such as "idiot-tops" or "tail-for-brains", whenever things do not go according to his plans. In exchange, Rex endures being called many flattering and important sounding names, by the other Tyrannos, such as "Bossasaur" and "Your Scaliness". A running gag throughout the series is that, Rex strongly objects to the use of the term "Chiefasaur", when addressing him, a reference to the "do not call me chief" running gag of Perry White from the 50's Superman show. As a villain, he tends to be staggeringly inept, always losing to the Dinosaucers in the end. Genghis Rex has deep feelings for Teryx and, even attempted to kidnap and marry her, but she resisted, since she was in love, with Ichy and objected to his ways. Rex also has an equally evil sister residing on Reptilon, named Dei. Despite being evil, Rex does sometimes display respect and honor towards others and his relationship, with Allo and the Dinosaucers, implies that, they are more like rivals than enemies.[5]
  • Dei (voiced by Louise Vallance): An evolved Deinonychus, with yellow-green skin, who is the older sister of Rex and the only female Tyranno. She appears a few times in episodes where the cast returns to Reptilon. It is generally believed that, she is the leader of the Tyrannos' movement on Reptilon. Almost as strong as her younger brother, but more intelligent and agile, she demonstrates considerable skill in battle. She also constantly scolds her brother, when things go wrong, something no other Tyranno has the courage to do. She appears less than the others, due to still being partially tied with her matters at Reptilon. Her name is a reference to Princess Diana.
  • Ankylo (voiced by John Stocker): An evolved Ankylosaurus, the dimwitted, sycophantic assistant of Rex and is another member of the Tyrannos. Ankylo bears a resemblance to a warthog and exhibits pig characteristics, often snorting, when he speaks. He wears grey armor, has red skin and has a special weapon called the Anklebuster, which creates a chain, made out of energy, often used to disable the Dinosaucers. He is the most loyal Tyranno towards Rex and constantly gives him advice about his schemes and tells him to back off about his feelings for Teryx, although in the latter case, his suggestions fall on deaf ears, due to the intensity of Rex's emotions.
  • Quackpot (voiced by Len Carlson): An evolved Anatosaurus. Quackpot is the practical joker of the group, much to the ire of the other Tyrannos. Like Ankylo, Quackpot is red, with white on his bill, neck and belly. He wears grey, blueish armor and goes also goes barefoot. Quackpot, makes a quacking sound like a duck in comparison to his appearance and talks like a 1920s gangster. In episode 63, Quackpot was the star of a children's television show back on Reptilon called Duckbill's Playhouse, under the stage name, T.B. Duckbill. Therefore, he objects to harming children and, even sometimes protects and cares for them.
  • Brachio (voiced by Don McManus): An evolved Brachiosaurus. Brachio is the archetypal thug of the gang and is purple. Brachio is the evil counterpart of Bronto Thunder. Physically the strongest among the Tyrannos, despite this, Brachio follows Rex's orders to the letter and is not very bright although not at the same degree of stupidity as Bonehead.
  • Styraco (voiced by Gordon Masten): An evolved Styracosaurus. Styraco is the evil counterpart of Tricero. He is orange and wears yellow armor and goes barefoot. Styraco was formerly a dentist working at the office of Pinchem, Pullem and Yankem, before joining Rex on Earth. He is intelligent and sometimes works, with machines though not as often as Plesio. Like Ankylo, he is extremely loyal towards Rex. He is sensitive to mental pressure and can behave in a deranged way, when pushed to the brink of his sanity. He likes to eat, and really hates water.
  • Plesio (voiced by Dan Hennessey): An evolved Plesiosaurus, a prehistoric aquatic reptile. Plesio is cunning and shifty, looks like a pink dragon, and is the evil counterpart of Ichy. Like Ichy, Plesio can talk to sea creatures. Plesio used to work for Slither, Slither and Shark, Attorneys at Law on Reptilon, before becoming a Tyranno. He once had a romantic relationship, with the Loch Ness Monster. He serves as the scientist and inventor of the group. He does understand marine creatures and became obsessed in freeing some at the episode Age of Aquariums, although he had only wanted to have an army of his own. Plesio seems to be most distant from Rex than the rest of the Tyrannos.[citation needed]
  • Terrible Dactyl (voiced by John Stocker): The flying member of the Tyrannos and the evil counterpart of Teryx. He speaks, with a British accent. He wears a pilot mask, purple armor, and a white scarf and has orange skin. Terrible Dactyl is an evolved Pterodactylus, a pterosaur, which is commonly referred to as a pterodactyl. In a large proportion of the episodes, Terrible Dactyl begins the conflict between the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos by observing some "suspicious" activity and reporting it to Rex. Unlike an actual Pterodactylus, Terrible Dactyl has a crest like a Pteranodon and a long rhamphorhynchoid-style tail. He has a soft spot for baby pterosaurs and, even had once helped the Dinosaucers protect some Pteranodon eggs in the episode Eggs Marks the Spot, showing that, there is some good on this mostly evil-willed being after all. Also, he is of a more sporting nature than the other Tyrannos and will sometimes leave a conflict voluntarily, if his side has an unfair advantage in numbers.

Minor characters

[edit]
  • The Dinosorcerer and Dinosorceress: The leaders of Reptilon. Dinosorcerer is a Megalosaurus and Dinosorceress is a Plateosaurus. They prefer to rule at arm's length, staying out of the squabbles of the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos as parents would their children. They are very powerful, as shown in episodes where they levitate objects and heal deadly diseases. They are also Allo's uncle and aunt. They possess a "Book of Reptilonian Wisdom" which predicts the future.
  • Apatty Saurus: Apatty Saurus is an evolved Apatosaurus and is Bronto Thunder's girlfriend on Reptilon. She is an expert swamp boater and became a partner at the Color Rep-Tiles tile shop, where Bronto Thunder once worked, sometime after Bronto left for Earth.
  • Major Clifton: Major Clifton appears in a couple episodes, although it is never revealed when he and the Dinosaucers first met. He is portrayed as a U.S. Air Force officer who is trying to discover the truth about the Dinosaucers at the expense of his reputation. He knows the Secret Scouts know about the Dinosaucers and confides in them about his theories, although the scouts do their best not to verify them. He currently is the caretaker of a large undersea creature that latched onto him the way newborn animals do when they hatch.
  • The Furballs: Ugh (voiced by John Stocker) and Grunt, are balls of fur who are equivalent to quite-intelligent pets on Reptilon. They get into trouble more often than not in each episode in which they appear, but end up saving the day for the Dinosaucers since Tyrannos are allergic to them. They are brave and daring despite their size and seemingly frail appearance. They either have arms or legs, but not both. They are also able to talk and are afraid of ghosts.
  • Captain Sabretooth and Smilin'Don: Evolved Smilodon. They are space pirates with advance weapons that rivals Reptilon's, like a device that neutralizes the Dinosaucers' and Tyrannos' Fossilizers. They are part of a group called the 'Sabretooths' where it is said that were invaders of Reptilon, according to the Dinosaucers. Though both Captain Sabretooth and Smilin' Don seem to state that Reptilon was their home. Either way, it took all of Reptilon to get and keep the Sabretooths off the planet. They can be fended off with cat nip, a little gift Sara gives to the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos in order to keep them away afterwards.
  • Nessie: Known as the Loch Ness Monster, she is a female Elasmosaurus. Upon meeting Plesio, she falls in love with him and though Genghis Rex plans to turn her a member of the Tyrannos, Plesio loves her to the point of denying Rex's command and even defossilize the Dinosaucers to help free her. Even though she is offered to become a Dinosaucer, she declines. She became a close friend to Teryx due to both being females and kept her love to Plesio despite his evil roots. Nessie is currently an ally and friend to the Dinosaucers. She debuted in the episode "Lochs and Bay Gulls".
  • Dinosaur Dundy: Joseph Dunderback is an Australian human scientist obsessed with studying biology. He once studied the lifeforms on a swamp, but changed his focus and started to study dinosaurs. Due to some radioactive material leaking while he was transporting them some of the creatures in the swamp mutated, gained intelligence, about level of Bonehead and the ability to talk. The mutated creatures on the swamp felt his uninterest and started to behave wildly or strangely in order to draw his attention. Crocodiles, turtles, and snakes are his closest friends. In the end, he resumes his original quest and becomes an ally and friend to the Dinosaucers alongside his reptilian comrades. He debuted in the episode named after him. Dinosaur Dundy likes to drive watercraft in order for his reptilian friends to ski in the swamp. He is based on Paul Hogan's movie character Crocodile Dundee.
  • Turtleback and Shellhead: Two mutated Earthling turtles which are some of Dinosaur Dundy's closest friends. They have cheerful personalities and good will. Dundy refers to them as "two of the slipperies characters he has ever met". They also relate well with the Dinosaucers, due to them all being reptiles. Though initially hostile and mischievous, they eventually learn the error of their ways and begin enjoying life for what is worth it. They made their debut in the episode Dinosaur Dundy. They love to ski in the swamp.
  • Crockpot: A mutated Earthling crocodile whom Dinosaur Dundy has cared since it was a hatchling. He became aggressive after Dinosaur Dundy forgot about him and only reverted when he gave up his obsession and returned to the passion of studying the creatures of the swamps. All he wanted was attention and notice from his old human friend after all. He began to enjoy life alongside his human and reptile friends. He was introduced to the series in the episode Dinosaur Dundy. He takes a liking to skiing since then.
  • Marty and Snake Eyes: Two mutated Earth snakes which are friends to Dinosaur Dundy. They are also close to the other mutated reptiles on the swamp. They are left to guard Sara by Crockpot but tag along with Sara after getting bored. They are very sympathetic, docile and friendly. They debuted in the episode Dinosaur Dundy and Sara states them to be musicians. They learn how to ski and greatly enjoy adventure.

Media

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Home video releases

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U.S. releases

[edit]
  • Dinosaucers: Dinosaur Valley and Carnivore in Rio • Released in 1994. It included the first and seventeenth episodes of the series.
  • Dinosaucers: Take Us Out to the Ball Game & Monday Night Clawball • Released in 1994. It included the second and thirty-second episodes of the series.
  • Dinosaucers: Hooray for Hollywood and Divide and Conquer • Released in 1994. It included the fourth and fifth episodes of the series.
  • Dinosaucers: The First Snow and Frozen Furballs • Released in 1994. It included the twelfth and eighteenth episodes of the series.

There have been four tapes in total released on VHS cassette in NTSC format specifically for the United States and Canadian markets. None are still in print or available, making these four VHS tapes rare. Dinosaucers has not been released on DVD and there are no known plans to do so from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

UK releases

[edit]
  • Dinosaucers: Volume 1 • Released March 14, 1994. The episodes included in this volume are Dinosaur Valley, Take Us Out To The Ball Game, Happy Egg Day To You, Hooray For Hollywood and Divide And Conquer.
  • Dinosaucers: Volume 2 • Released October 10, 1994. The episodes included in this volume are Burgers Up!, Be Prepared, That Shrinking Feeling, Rockin' Reptiles and Sleeping Booty.

There were two tapes in total released for the UK market in PAL format. Unlike the United States released tapes that had two episodes on each tape, the United Kingdom tapes had five episodes each on both tapes released.

The first 21 episodes were previously purchased and downloaded online on Amazon.com as well as on iTunes until summer of 2013 with no current plans to return as of 2023.

Toys

[edit]

There were originally plans by Galoob to release a Dinosaucers toy line, and prototype figures were produced. The toy line was to include the characters Stego, Bronto-Thunder, Allo, Bonehead, Plesio, Quackpot, Ankylo, and Genghis Rex.[6] However, the line was scrapped when the show was canceled after airing its initial 65 episode.[7] As a result, some markets began pulling the series from their cartoon line-ups instead of re-running the show's episodes for the remainder of the full 1987-1988 television season.

In 1989, after Dinosaucers premiered in Brazil, a company named Glasslite contacted Galoob and purchased the molds. As such, Glasslite produced five of the eight unproduced Galoob molds of the 8" figures although they can be extremely hard to find.[8]

Comic reboot

[edit]

In 2018, Uslan joined with publisher Lion Forge Comics to revive Dinosaucers as a comic book.[9] The 5-part mini-series however was left on a cliff hanger when the comic book was discontinued after a trade paperback was published in January 2019.

Episodes

[edit]

Stephan Martinieri directed all episodes.[citation needed]

No.TitleWritten byOriginal release date
1"Dinosaur Valley"Diane DuaneSeptember 14, 1987 (1987-09-14)
The Tyrannos discover a hidden valley full of tech-cancelling ore-and dinosaurs! The Dinosaucers head down to stop the Tyrannos from building a base there.
2"Take Us Out to the Ballgame"Michael E. UslanSeptember 15, 1987 (1987-09-15)
The Secret Scouts teach the Dinosaucers how to play baseball while the Tyrannos search for the world's biggest diamond.
3"Happy Egg Day to You"Diane DuaneSeptember 16, 1987 (1987-09-16)
The Secret Scouts and Dinosaucers plan a surprise party for Paul while the Tyrannos infiltrate Lavadome to steal the secret of dinovolving.
4"Hooray for Hollywood"Felicia MalianiSeptember 17, 1987 (1987-09-17)
Stego and Bonehead go to Hollywood to meet the dinosaurs they think are there while Genghis Rex and Ankylo plan to recruit those dinosaurs.
5"Divide and Conquer"Michael E. UslanSeptember 18, 1987 (1987-09-18)
The Tyrannos fake news about a new energy source in New York in order to get Allo away from the Dinosaucers. Bronto Thunder goes to New York against Allo's orders.
6"A Real Super Hero"Brooks WachtelSeptember 21, 1987 (1987-09-21)
Sara and Bonehead go to Hollywood to meet their favorite TV superhero, Mr. Hero. Unfortunately, the Tyrannos go to Hollywood too to eliminate Mr. Hero and get their claws on his weapons.
7"Burgers Up!"Ron HarrisSeptember 22, 1987 (1987-09-22)
The Tyrannos steal a shipment of frozen hamburgers, mistaking them for a power source for their latest weapon.
8"Be Prepared"Mike O'MahonySeptember 23, 1987 (1987-09-23)
The Dinosaucers and Secret Scouts go on a camping trip to hone their survival skills.
9"That Shrinking Feeling"Doug MolitorSeptember 24, 1987 (1987-09-24)
Teryx builds a 4-D ray that shrinks her, Bronto Thunder, Allo, Ryan, Sara, and the Tyrannos, leading to a miniature fight in the Spencer house.
10"Rockin' Reptiles"Felicia MalianiSeptember 25, 1987 (1987-09-25)
David uses the Dinosaucers' name and looks for his rock band, but is mistaken for the real thing by the Tyrannos.
11"Sleeping Booty"Ron Harris,
Diane Duane
September 28, 1987 (1987-09-28)
Genghis Rex plans to recruit a giant monster to conquer Earth.
12"The First Snow"Michael E. UslanSeptember 29, 1987 (1987-09-29)
Paul and Sara teach the Dinosaucers how to have fun in winter.
13"Trick or Cheat"Michael E. Uslan,
Diane Duane
September 30, 1987 (1987-09-30)
The Secret Scouts practice their magic tricks, unaware that Quackpot plans to show off magic tricks of his own.
14"Defective Defector"Doug MolitorOctober 1, 1987 (1987-10-01)
Quackpot is hit by Plesio's defector ray, causing him to join the Dinosaucers. Unfortunately, the Dinosaucers become the victims of Quackpot's practical jokes.
15"For the Love of Teryx"Felicia MalianiOctober 2, 1987 (1987-10-02)
Sara helps Teryx admit her feelings for Ichy. At the same time, Genghis Rex plans on making Teryx his queen.
16"A Man's Best Friend Is His Dogasaurus"Michael E. UslanOctober 5, 1987 (1987-10-05)
Sara and Paul bring their pets Missy and Charlie to Dinosaucer HQ, but the Fur Balls give them dinosauce that turns them into dinosaurs.
17"Carnivore in Rio"Somtow SucharitkulOctober 6, 1987 (1987-10-06)
A tribe in the Amazon has begun misusing a Reptilon tool and the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos race to get it.
18"Frozen Fur Balls"J. Vornholt,
S. Robertson
October 7, 1987 (1987-10-07)
The Tyrannos attack a supply ship driven by Stego and Bonehead, who only have Ugh, Grunt and their relatives to help them.
19"Hook, Line, and Stinker"Avril Roy-Smith,
Richard Mueller
October 8, 1987 (1987-10-08)
While searching for sunken treasure, Plesio is photographed by a team of scientists. The Dinosaucers and Tyrannos rush to make sure the scientists are unsuccessful in capturing him.
20"The Prehistoric Purge"Walt Kubiak,
Eliot Daro
October 9, 1987 (1987-10-09)
Stego becomes a wrestler known as the Prehistoric Purge and Genghis Rex plans to kidnap the Secret Scouts at one of his matches.
21"The Truth About Dragons"Doug MolitorOctober 12, 1987 (1987-10-12)
The Tyrannos go to China to get their claws on the country's 'superpower'. A boy named Kai mistakes them for dragons.
22"Chariots of the Dinosaucers"Somtow SucharitkulOctober 13, 1987 (1987-10-13)
The Tyrannos travel to Egypt and force an archeologist to help them find the tomb of Stego-Ra, the creator of dinovolving.
23"Eggs Mark the Spot"Avril Roy-Smith,
Richard Mueller
October 14, 1987 (1987-10-14)
A nest of pteranodon eggs are discovered and the Dinosaucers and Secret Scouts rush to get them before the Tyrannos do! However, Terrible Dactyl wants them for his own reasons...
24"Mommy Dino-Dearest"Brooks WachtelOctober 15, 1987 (1987-10-15)
Bonehead's mother Bonehilda comes to Lavadome with a device that'll prevent the Tyrannos from intercepting their communications and Genghis Rex wants it. Meanwhile, Bonehead tries to make his mother proud by pretending to be commander of the Dinosaucers.
25"The Whale's Song"Durnie KingOctober 16, 1987 (1987-10-16)
The Tyrannos head to the Bermuda Triangle to take a meteor that has the power to transport objects to Reptilon and the Dinosaucers team up with the meteor's whale guardians to stop them.
26"Inquiring Minds"Mark CassuttOctober 19, 1987 (1987-10-19)
When Sara photographs the Dinosaucers, the pictures end up in the hands of a greedy reporter, who teams up with the Tyrannos.
27"War of the Worlds... II"Dennis O'FlahertyOctober 20, 1987 (1987-10-20)
David's cousin Francine causes alien invaders to appear on the TV sets of her hometown, causing a panic and bringing the Tyrannos who want to ally themselves with the non-existent aliens.
28"Beach Blanket Bonehead"Chris Bunch,
Allan Cole
October 21, 1987 (1987-10-21)
In honor of Fern Day, the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos call a 24-hour truce. The Secret Scouts take the Dinosaucers to the beach and the Tyrannos follow.
29"The Bone Ranger and Bronto"David Bischoff,
Ted Pedersen
October 22, 1987 (1987-10-22)
When a new dinosaur skull is found in Arizona, the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos venture there, both reenacting Reptilon's Old West days.
30"Cindersaurus"Cherie WilkersonOctober 23, 1987 (1987-10-23)
In order to learn more about dances, Teryx creates a device that temporarily turns her into a human.
31"Trouble in Paradise"Martha MoranOctober 26, 1987 (1987-10-26)
While eavesdropping on a talk about volcanoes in Hawaii, Allo, Bronto Thunder, and Dimetro are captured by the Tyrannos, who are using a weather-controlling cannon. The Secret Scouts and Bonehead are likewise defeated, leaving it up to Stego to stop the Tyrannos.
32"Monday Night Clawball"Michael E. Uslan,
J. Vornholt,
S. Robertson
October 27, 1987 (1987-10-27)
The Dinosaucers and Tyrannos settle a dispute over a crater full of reptilite with a football game.
33"Age of Aquariums"Michael E. Uslan,
Cherie Wilkerson
October 28, 1987 (1987-10-28)
Plesio frees the fish in the aquarium the Secret Scouts work at and tries to get them to revolt against humanity.
34"Scents of Wonder"Somtow SucharitkulOctober 29, 1987 (1987-10-29)
The Tyrannos believe that they have a mind-control weapon made from perfume.
35"Fine-Feathered Friend"Felicia MalianiOctober 30, 1987 (1987-10-30)
Teryx comes down with a mysterious illness and Allo goes to get the Dinosorceress to cure her. Unfortunately, Teryx is kidnapped by a greedy birdwatcher who plans to make her the find of the century.
36"Allo and Cos-Stego Meet the Abominable Snowman"Michael E. Uslan,
Brooks Wachtel
November 2, 1987 (1987-11-02)
-Genghis Rex tricks Stego into taking Allo on a search for the Abominable Snowman so that he can steal it and add it to the Tyrannos.
37"The Quack-Up of Quackpot"Michael E. UslanNovember 3, 1987 (1987-11-03)
It is April Fool's Day and Quackpot is running wild with practical jokes! It is up to the Secret Scouts to stop him.
38"It's an Archaeopteryx — It's a Plane — It's Thunder-Lizard"Michael E. Uslan,
Arthur Byron Cover
November 4, 1987 (1987-11-04)
When Bronto Thunder lies to his girlfriend Apatty Saurus about his accomplishments on Earth, he is forced to become the superhero Thunder-Lizard. In one part of the episode, Bronto Thunder wears his swimming trunk shorts as he rides through a river.
39"Teacher's Pest"Doug MolitorNovember 5, 1987 (1987-11-05)
When told to stay behind at Lavadome, Bonehead sneaks out to go to school with Ryan and Sara. Meanwhile, Genghis Rex plans to kidnap Bonehead and use him as leverage against Allo.
40"Dino-Chips!"Somtow SucharitkulNovember 6, 1987 (1987-11-06)
The Tyrannos sabotage a computer company with computer chips from Reptilon.
41"The Heart and Sole of Bigfoot"Michael E. Uslan,
David Bischoff,
Ted Pedersen
November 9, 1987 (1987-11-09)
While scouting in Canada, Quackpot turns a lumberjack into a Bigfoot-like creature. The Dinosaucers try to help him while the Tyrannos try to capture him.
42"Karatesaurus Wrecks"Michael E. Uslan,
David Wise
November 10, 1987 (1987-11-10)
The Dinosaucers go to Japan and are roped into working in a monster movie. Meanwhile, the Tyrannos learn karate to fight the Dinosaucers.
43"Lochs and Bay Gulls"Michael E. UslanNovember 11, 1987 (1987-11-11)
Genghis Rex plans to recruit the Loch Ness Monster into the Tyrannos, but Plesio falls in love with her.
44"The Trojan Horseasaurus"Ellen GuonNovember 12, 1987 (1987-11-12)
When Quackpot is kicked out of the Tyrannos, he plans to get revenge by pretending to be the Ancients of Reptilon.
45"We're Off to See the Lizard"Michael E. Uslan,
Felicia Maliani
November 13, 1987 (1987-11-13)
Sara is hit by a tornado from a Tyranno weather machine and wakes up to find herself in a very Oz-like situation.
46"Seeing Purple"Susan EllisonNovember 16, 1987 (1987-11-16)
The Dinosaucers come down with an illness and the Secret Scouts have to keep the Tyrannos from finding out.
47"There's No Such Thing as Stego-Claws"Michael E. UslanNovember 17, 1987 (1987-11-17)
The Dinosaucers plan to go home for Merry Dinosaur Day but the Tyrannos spoil Bonehead's good cheer by telling him Stego-Claws does not exist. That night, Bonehead and David join Stego-Claws in trying to keep the Tyrannos from ruining Merry Dinosaur Day.
48"Applesaucers"Michael E. UslanNovember 18, 1987 (1987-11-18)
David, Allo, and Dimetro work to save David's grandparent's farm from the Tyrannos.
49"Reduced for Clarence"Michael E. Uslan,
Carla Conway
November 19, 1987 (1987-11-19)
Ryan, Sara, Allo, and Teryx go to the circus where the Tyrannos are trying to kidnap a stilt-wearing clown named Clarence, whom they believe has a shrink ray.
50"Attack of the Fur Balls"Clancy FortNovember 20, 1987 (1987-11-20)
After causing trouble at Lavadome, Ugh and Grunt run away, fall into a Tyranno trap and are taken to the Tar Pits.
51"Dinosaur Dundy"Michael E. UslanNovember 23, 1987 (1987-11-23)
Bronto Thunder, Tricero, Sara, and David go to Florida to find some dinosaur eggs in the possession of archeologist Dinosaur Dundy, but they have been stolen by a mutated crocodile.
52"Those Reptilon Nights"Bill FawcettNovember 24, 1987 (1987-11-24)
The Maltese Pterodactyl is stolen and Tricero is called back to Reptilon to find it.
53"The Dinolympics"Bill FawcettNovember 25, 1987 (1987-11-25)
Allo tries to get the Tyrannos to compete in their form of Olympics as a way of making peace while Sara deals with a stuck-up rival at her own Olympics.
54"Sara Had a Little Lambeosaurus"Cherie WilkersonNovember 26, 1987 (1987-11-26)
Dimetro follows Sara to school and befriends her trouble-making chemistry lab partner Glen.
55"Beauty and the Bonehead"Brynne StephensNovember 27, 1987 (1987-11-27)
Genghis Rex steals a perfume from the scientist who made it in order to make himself beautiful and take over the world. The Dinosaucers rush to stop him while Bonehead falls in love with the scientist's daughter.
56"The Museum of Natural Humans"Michael E. Uslan,
Felicia Maliani,
Lydia C. Marano
November 30, 1987 (1987-11-30)
The Secret Scouts are abducted by the Tyrannos, who sell them to a museum and it is up to Allo to rescue them.
57"Saber-Tooth or Consequences"Michael E. Uslan,
Craig Miller,
Mark Nelson
December 1, 1987 (1987-12-01)
Sabertooth tiger pirates come to Earth and the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos team up to stop them.
58"Camp Tyranno"Michael E. Uslan,
Beth Bornstein
December 2, 1987 (1987-12-02)
When the Secret Scouts are away at summer camp, the Tyrannos think they are at a boot camp to prepare them for war. Genghis Rex forms his own boot camp to combat them.
59"The Babysitter"Gerry ConwayDecember 3, 1987 (1987-12-03)
In order to go to the Reptile Fair on Reptilon, Bonehead leaves his little brother Numbskull in the care of Quackpot.
60"Toy-Ranno Store Wars"Michael E. Uslan,
Jody Lynn Nye
December 4, 1987 (1987-12-04)
The Tyrannos mistake toy commercials as advertisements for weapons and kidnap David to make him tell them how they work.
61"The T-Bones' Stakes"Michael E. UslanDecember 7, 1987 (1987-12-07)
The Tyrannos obtain a ray gun that brings dinosaur skeletons to life and the Dinosaucers seem unable to defeat them.
62"The Scales of Justice"Michael E. UslanDecember 8, 1987 (1987-12-08)
Sick and tired of always losing to the Dinosaucers, the Tyrannos decide to face them in court.
63"I Got Those 'Ol Reptilon Blues Again, Mommasaur"Michael E. Uslan,
Todd Johnson
December 9, 1987 (1987-12-09)
The Tyrannos go back to Reptilon to return to their old jobs and Allo, Teryx, and Bronto Thunder follow to see if they really are. But will the three Dinosaucers decide to stay on Reptilon?
64"I Was a Teenage Human"Lydia C. Marano,
David Wise
December 10, 1987 (1987-12-10)
The Tyrannos need a new energy source and believe that Paul's science fair project is what they are looking for. They turn Styraco into a human to steal it.
65"The Friend"Bill FawcettDecember 11, 1987 (1987-12-11)
While on his way for groceries, Stego befriends a lonely boy named Peter. When Stego takes him to Reptilon, the Tyrannos think Peter's toys are prototypes for spaceships and kidnap him.

Development

[edit]

According to Uslan in a 2019 interview with Syfy, the show was inspired by his son, David, who has an interest in dinosaurs and outerspace.[1] He then started to brainstorm his ideas of Tyrannos and the Dinosaucers with his son listening to him explain it.[1] The Secret Scouts were named after members of his family, including his own son.[1]

Uslan worked on a deal with Andy Hawyard at DiC Entertainment to air the show through syndication with Coca-Cola Telecommunications.[1]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Dinosaucers is an American-Canadian animated television series that premiered in syndication on September 14, 1987, and ran for 65 episodes until December 11, 1987. Created by , the show depicts a conflict between two factions of anthropomorphic dinosaurs from the distant Reptilon who crash-land on . The heroic Dinosaucers, led by the Allosaurus warrior Allo, team up with a group of human teenagers known as the Secret Scouts—Ryan, , , and Allison—to thwart the conquest plans of the villainous Tyrannos, commanded by the tyrannical T-Rex Genghis Rex. The series was co-produced by DIC Enterprises (also known as DIC Animation City), Nelvana Limited, and Ellipse Programmé, with distribution handled by in the United States. It blends elements of , action, and comedy, featuring the characters using high-tech armor, vehicles, and gadgets modeled after prehistoric creatures, often in episodic adventures that incorporate educational nods to and Earth's history. Voice acting was provided by notable Canadian talents, including as Allo, as Genghis Rex, and as Dimetro, contributing to the show's vibrant and campy animation style. Dinosaucers was developed as a to a planned line of action figures and toys by , reflecting the era's trend of promoting merchandise, though the show garnered a for its quirky premise and memorable characters despite its short run. In , Uslan revived the property with a series published by , reimagining the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos for a modern audience while staying true to the original concept.

Premise

Plot Overview

Dinosaucers is an centered on anthropomorphic dinosaurs from the planet Reptilon, a twin world to where dinosaurs evolved into intelligent beings rather than becoming extinct. The narrative follows two opposing factions that arrive on : the benevolent Dinosaucers, who seek to safeguard the planet and find a way back home, and the malevolent Tyrannos, who aim to conquer to exploit its abundant resources, including and supplies, to bolster their dominance on Reptilon. This interplanetary conflict unfolds as a series of skirmishes, with the Dinosaucers allying with a group of human children known as the Secret Scouts to counter the Tyrannos' aggressive invasions. The Dinosaucers establish a hidden base called the inside a dormant in a mountainous region, while the Tyrannos set up their headquarters beneath a near an abandoned . These locations serve as strategic outposts for their operations on , highlighting the factions' contrasting approaches—the Dinosaucers emphasizing stealth and , and the Tyrannos favoring overt domination and resource extraction. Central to the ongoing battles is the Dinosaucers' ability to dinovolve, transforming into larger, more powerful forms to defend against threats. Thematically, the series explores themes of interstellar between the alien Dinosaucers and allies, as well as , with the Tyrannos' actions often leading to and ecological disruption on . Through these elements, the plot underscores the importance of unity and stewardship in the face of and exploitation.

Dinovolving and

In the animated series Dinosaucers, Dinovolving refers to the unique technological process that enables the titular protagonists—anthropomorphic from the Reptilon—to transform into their more primal, non-humanoid forms, enhancing their physical capabilities such as strength and speed while preserving their and speech abilities. This transformation is activated by pressing a specialized button located on the front of their uniforms, allowing for rapid reversion to ancestral states like for the leader Allo. The Dinovolving technology originated on Reptilon, the homeworld of these evolved dinosaur species, where it was developed as part of their advanced scientific advancements amid inter-tribal conflicts between the heroic Dinosaucers and their rivals, the Tyrannos. Exclusive to the Dinosaucers, this ability represents a key tactical edge, with the Tyrannos frequently attempting to steal or replicate it to bolster their conquest efforts on . Though initially prominent in early episodes as a core action element, Dinovolving saw reduced usage in later installments, suggesting inherent limitations such as temporary duration or energy constraints that prevented overuse. Beyond Dinovolving, the series features a range of Reptilonian technologies integral to the Dinosaucers' operations. Their , known as space saucers, are designed in the shape of the pilots' species for streamlined and combat maneuvers. Communicators facilitate coordination among team members and their human allies, the Secret Scouts, though they remain vulnerable to interception by adversaries without protective countermeasures. The Dinosaucers' primary base, —situated within a dormant —incorporates defensive systems to shield against Tyrannos incursions, underscoring the blend of mobility and fortification in their technological arsenal.

Characters

Dinosaucers

The Dinosaucers are the primary heroic faction in the animated series, consisting of anthropomorphic dinosaurs from the planet Reptilon who prioritize peace, protection of , and cooperative efforts against threats. Led through a democratic structure that emphasizes consensus and , the group operates from their base known as , a fortified structure within a dormant that serves as a hub for strategy and operations. Their designs feature distinctive blue armor, which reflects positive attributes derived from their prehistoric , such as enhanced mobility or defensive capabilities tailored to each member's role. Allo, an evolved , leads the Dinosaucers as a wise diplomat and inventive strategist who fosters unity and non-violent solutions whenever possible. Voiced by , he coordinates missions with a focus on and to safeguard both Reptilon's interests and Earth's inhabitants. The core team includes Teryx, a who excels as the aerial scout, providing reconnaissance with her agile flight and keen observational skills; voiced by Louise Vallance. Tricero, a , acts as the strong defender, utilizing his robust build and horn-based ramming abilities for frontline protection; voiced by . Dimetro, a , serves as the team's strategist and technical advisor, offering calculated plans and inventive support; voiced by . Bronto Thunder, a , is the gentle giant whose immense strength supports heavy-lifting and shielding duties without aggression; voiced by Marvin Goldhar. Stego, a , functions as the tech expert, maintaining equipment and deploying defensive gadgets with his plated armor enhancements; voiced by Ray Kahnert. Ichy, an , specializes in aquatic operations, navigating water environments for exploration and rescue; voiced by Thick Wilson. Bonehead, a young and Allo's nephew, provides comic relief and uses his thick skull for headbutting in support roles; voiced by Marvin Goldhar. These members' species-inspired designs integrate blue armor that amplifies their natural traits—for instance, Tricero's reinforced frill and horns enable powerful charges, while Teryx's lightweight plating aids swift aerial maneuvers—promoting a balanced team dynamic centered on mutual support and protection. In their with the Tyrannos, the Dinosaucers maintain an with the Secret Scouts to enhance their peacekeeping efforts on .

Tyrannos

The Tyrannos are the primary antagonistic faction in Dinosaucers, composed of anthropomorphic dinosaurs from the planet Reptilon who seek to conquer and exploit 's resources to sustain their depleted homeworld. Unlike their heroic counterparts, the Dinosaucers, the Tyrannos operate under an authoritarian hierarchy driven by self-interest and aggression, often employing underhanded tactics to achieve dominance. Their Earth base is situated beneath a polluted near an abandoned , reflecting their disregard for environmental consequences and affinity for desolate, resource-rich locations. Leading the Tyrannos is Genghis Rex, a rex characterized by his tyrannical demeanor and unyielding ferocity, serving as the ruthless ruler who demands absolute loyalty from his subordinates. Voiced by , Genghis Rex embodies amplified negative traits of his species, prioritizing conquest over cooperation and frequently clashing with the Dinosaucers' leader, Allo. His design features distinctive red armor that signifies the group's villainous alignment, enhancing his imposing presence as a strategic overlord. Key members of the Tyrannos include Ankylo, an Ankylosaurus who acts as the group's brute enforcer, relying on his armored physique and club-like tail for intimidation and combat; he is voiced by John Stocker. Brachio, a Brachiosaurus and the faction's primary inventor, develops gadgets and weapons to aid in their exploitative schemes, voiced by Don McManus. Quackpot, a duck-billed Hadrosaurus serving as Genghis Rex's alien advisor, provides comic relief through his bumbling incompetence and quacking mannerisms, voiced by Len Carlson. Plesio, a Plesiosaurus specialized in submarine piloting and aquatic operations, supports underwater conquest efforts, also voiced by Dan Hennessey. Terrible Dactyl, a Pterodactyl functioning as the group's aerial spy, excels in reconnaissance and sabotage, voiced by John Stocker. Styraco, a Styracosaurus, uses his frill and horns for charging attacks and defensive maneuvers in group assaults. The Tyrannos' dynamics revolve around Genghis Rex's iron-fisted control, where dissent is rare and members' villainous traits—such as Ankylo's brute strength or Quackpot's scheming ineptitude—are exaggerated to fuel their goal of subjugating . This structure fosters infighting and inefficiency at times, yet their unified ambition to plunder the planet's sources propels relentless aggression, often utilizing Dinovolving for enhanced conquest capabilities. Their red-armored uniforms visually distinguish them as the malevolent force, symbolizing corrupted power and opposition to the Dinosaucers' protective ideals.

Secret Scouts

The Secret Scouts are a team of four human teenagers who ally with the Dinosaucers, serving as their primary Earth-based support in the conflict against the Tyrannos. Originating from an ordinary small town, these children stumble upon the Dinosaucers' arrival and are swiftly integrated into their operations, leveraging their familiarity with local environments to aid the extraterrestrial visitors. The group consists of Ryan Spencer, the adventurous and unofficial leader; his twin sister Sarah Spencer, an intelligent and athletic girl with a knack for technology and Earth knowledge; Paul, the physically strong and sporty member; and , the youngest who often injects humor through his impulsive antics. Ryan, voiced by , demonstrates leadership by coordinating team efforts and avoiding unnecessary risks. Sarah, voiced by Barbara Lynn Redpath, excels in informing the Dinosaucers about human customs and handles emotional dynamics within the group. Paul, voiced by , contributes his athleticism to high-action scenarios. , voiced by Leslie Toth, uses quick thinking and creativity, albeit sometimes exacerbating situations with his eagerness. In their roles, the Secret Scouts provide essential local intelligence, pilot Dinosaucer vehicles during missions, and equip Scoutsuits augmented by power rings that activate enhanced abilities—such as superhuman strength for or agility for —upon reciting "Secret Scout ring, !" This setup underscores themes of , positioning the teenagers as equal partners who bridge cultural gaps between humans and the Reptilonian dinosaurs. The Scouts develop strong personal bonds with individual Dinosaucers, exemplified by Ryan's collaborative dynamic with the group leader Allo during joint operations like reconnaissance and confrontations. These interactions foster mutual trust, allowing the humans to contribute meaningfully to the Dinosaucers' defensive strategies on .

Minor and Supporting Characters

Quackpot serves as Genghis Rex's bumbling advisor and the primary comic relief among the Tyrannos, depicted as an evolved with a duck-like appearance, including a white beak, neck, and belly contrasted against red skin and gray-blue armor. His quacking speech and penchant for practical jokes frequently irritate his comrades, leading to unintended assistance for the Dinosaucers during conflicts, such as when his pranks backfire on the villains. Voiced by , Quackpot appears recurrently across the series, notably in episodes like "The Quack-Up of Quackpot," where his mischief escalates into broader chaos, and his past as host of the Reptilon children's show Duckbill's Playhouse is highlighted in episode 63, "I Got Those Ol' Reptilon Blues Again, Mommasaur," emphasizing his showbiz aspirations. Adult humans in the series, including the parents of the Secret Scouts and authority figures such as park rangers, are consistently shown as oblivious to the extraterrestrial dinosaur invasions, maintaining the of the young heroes' involvement. This obliviousness underscores the theme of child agency, with adults dismissing unusual events as natural occurrences or hoaxes. Notable exceptions include Major Clifton, a U.S. officer who actively investigates reports of the Dinosaucers and shares his suspicions with the Secret Scouts in select episodes. Another aware adult is Joseph Dunderback, alias Dinosaur Dundy, an Australian scientist who studies anomalous phenomena and becomes an occasional ally to the heroes. Reptilon natives appear primarily in flashbacks and homeworld sequences to flesh out the backstory of the main factions, with figures like Allo's wife Vera providing domestic context to the Dinosaucers' leader. Vera, a supportive , is featured in 63, "I Got Those Ol' Reptilon Blues Again, Mommasaur," where she interacts with Allo during a visit to Reptilon, emphasizing amid the interstellar conflict. Tyranno underlings, such as loyal subordinates mentioned in origin flashbacks, reinforce the hierarchical structure of the antagonists, including roles like scientific aides or minor enforcers that highlight Genghis Rex's command without dominating the narrative. One-off creatures often manifest as episodic threats or complications, typically involving animals or altered by Reptilon technology, adding variety to individual storylines. For instance, the Secret Scouts' pets—Charlie the and Missy the cat—are transformed into giant, rampaging versions in "A Man's Best Friend is His Dogasaurus," forcing the heroes to reverse the mutation before causing widespread alarm. Similarly, mutated swamp inhabitants like intelligent crocodiles, turtles, and snakes, exposed to or devices, emerge as temporary allies under Dinosaur Dundy's guidance, appearing in episodes such as those centered on swamp anomalies to aid against Tyranno schemes. These creatures underscore the disruptive potential of interdimensional tech on local ecosystems without recurring beyond their specific conflicts.

Production

Development and Creation

Michael E. Uslan created Dinosaucers in the mid-1980s, drawing inspiration from bedtime stories he told his young son David, who was fascinated by dinosaurs and . These tales evolved from family outings to the and the Hayden Planetarium in New York, blending the two themes into a concept about intelligent dinosaurs in space. The series was developed in partnership with DIC Animation City, Nelvana Limited, and Ellipse Programme, which handled production, while funding and syndication came from —a division of —and distribution support from Lightyear Entertainment. The project resulted in 65 half-hour episodes designed specifically for syndicated broadcast to maximize reach among children. The core concept featured intelligent, anthropomorphic dinosaurs from the planet Reptilon, a twin world to hidden behind the Sun, where they had evolved without facing . To enhance relatability for young audiences, Uslan incorporated a group of children known as the Secret Scouts—named partly after his son and his friends—as allies to the heroic Dinosaucers in their battles against the villainous Tyrannos. This evolution from a purely dinosaur-focused to one including protagonists aimed to ground the interstellar conflict in everyday kid experiences. Uslan's background in comic books, including his pioneering acquisition of Batman film rights in , influenced the project's character designs; acclaimed artist contributed initial artwork for the dinosaurs, vehicles, and weapons. Despite strong initial syndication performance in 1987–1988, plans for expansion were scrapped due to low anticipated toy sales, as the accompanying merchandise line—prototyped by but never fully released in —failed to materialize amid the era's competitive toy market driven by shows like Transformers.

Animation Production and Voice Cast

Dinosaucers was produced using traditional cel by DIC Animation City, a French-American company with significant operations in . The 65-episode series was developed for rapid syndication, requiring an accelerated production schedule that emphasized efficiency in animation workflows. This tight timeline, aimed at meeting the demands of syndicated television, involved coordinated efforts across DIC's teams to deliver the full season quickly. Voice recording sessions primarily took place in , , where producer Michael Uslan traveled weekly from New York to oversee the process with an ensemble of Canadian voice actors. These sessions highlighted the series' reliance on local talent, many of whom voiced multiple characters to streamline production amid the grueling pace. The sound design incorporated distinctive effects for the Dinovolving transformations, enhancing the sci-fi elements central to the show's premise, though specific details on audio techniques remain limited in production records. The voice cast featured prominent Canadian performers, with actors often handling several roles to support the dual factions of Dinosaucers and Tyrannos, as well as human characters. Below is a selection of key credits:
CharacterVoice Actor
Allo, Quackpot
Dimetro
Bronto Thunder, BoneheadMarvin Goldhar
Tricero
Teryx
Genghis Rex, Plesio
Ryan
SarahValerie O'Hara
Paul
Additional supporting roles were filled by actors such as Gordon Masten (Styraco), (various), and John Stocker (multiple minor characters), contributing to the show's dynamic ensemble performances.

Broadcast and Release

Original Airing and Syndication

Dinosaucers premiered in first-run syndication across the on September 14, 1987, distributed by and airing daily on local stations until the series concluded on December 11, 1987. The 65-episode run followed an airdate sequence without formal seasons, a format typical for syndicated of the era produced to align with merchandise promotions like toys. As a co-production between in the United States and in , the series was broadcast in shortly following its U.S. debut. Internationally, Dinosaucers received distribution through the late 1980s and into the 1990s, with airings in various countries and dubs available in multiple languages including (Latin America and ), ( and ), and Italian to accommodate local audiences. The show aired only once in its initial syndication window, facing stiff competition from other popular animated programs, and did not receive a network television revival.

Home Media Releases

In the United States, four volumes of Dinosaucers were released by Kid Video in 1994, collectively covering 16 episodes from the series' 65-episode run. These tapes provided early home viewing options for fans following the show's original syndication, with each volume featuring select adventures involving the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos. In the , two volumes were issued by Grandslam in 1994, each containing four episodes in PAL format to suit European broadcast standards. These releases highlighted key storylines, such as conflicts between the heroic Dinosaucers and their villainous counterparts, and were tailored for the regional market without compatibility issues common to U.S. imports. No further official distributions occurred beyond these initial sets. Official DVD or Blu-ray releases of Dinosaucers have not been produced as of 2025, despite the series' ownership by . However, unofficial fan-produced options exist, including Monsterland Media's 4-disc Blu-ray set upscaled to HD, which compiles all 65 episodes in airdate order and is available for purchase . This set represents a non-official effort to preserve and enhance the original broadcast quality for modern viewers. On streaming platforms, Dinosaucers has partial availability, with 21 episodes available for purchase on Amazon Video. Full episodes can also be found on various channels, though these uploads are unofficial and may vary in quality and completeness, lacking endorsement from the rights holders. No HD remaster or comprehensive official digital release has been announced by 2025.

Merchandise and Adaptations

Toys and Action Figures

The Dinosaucers toy line was developed by for release in 1987 to accompany the animated television series, featuring eight 8-inch action figures representing key characters from both the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos factions. The planned figures included Allo, Ankylo, Bonehead, Bronto Thunder, Plesio, Quackpot, and Stego for the Dinosaucers, along with Genghis Rex for the Tyrannos, each designed with hard plastic bodies, soft rubber limbs, and character-specific weapons to reflect their appearances in the show. Additional items encompassed transforming saucer vehicles, each bundled with two smaller 2.5-inch figures, and a Lavadome playset serving as a headquarters base. Despite prototypes and promotional materials being showcased at the 1987 Toy Fair, the full line was canceled in early 1988 amid the series' declining viewership and failure to generate sufficient market interest. In 1989, following the show's redubbed airing in , local manufacturer Glasslite acquired the molds from and released a limited selection of five 8-inch figures: Allo, Bonehead, Bronto Thunder, Quackpot, and Genghis Rex. These Brazilian-exclusive toys maintained the original specifications, including articulated designs and accessories, but no vehicles or playsets were produced. The remaining three planned figures—Ankylo, Plesio, and Stego—were never manufactured, though prototypes such as hardcopy molds and hand-painted samples have surfaced in private collections over the years. Due to their extremely limited production run and regional availability, Glasslite Dinosaucers figures have become highly collectible among vintage toy enthusiasts, with loose examples typically valued between $100 and $300 as of 2025, depending on condition and completeness. Boxed specimens command higher prices, often exceeding $500, owing to their scarcity. No official reissues or modern reproductions of the line have been made available by 2025.

Comic Book Series

In 2018, published a five-issue of Dinosaucers under its Roar imprint, titled Dinosaucers Vol. 1: Reptilon, reviving the property as a adaptation aimed at a more mature audience. The series was written by , the original co-creator of the 1987 animated show, with artwork by Andrew Pepoy and colors by Jason Millet; it collected into a trade paperback in February 2019. Announced at in October 2017, the debuted with its first issue in August 2018 and concluded in January 2019. The plot centers on the planet Reptilon, ravaged by climate change and resource depletion under the tyrannical rule of King Genghis Rex, who leads an invasion of to seize its water and other essentials. The Dinosaucers, a resistance faction including Allo, , , and others, ally with human allies such as engineer Paul Cary and a group of teenage hackers known as the Secret Scouts—Sarah, David, Ryan, and new addition Tian—to counter the Tyrannos' forces in a high-stakes interstellar conflict. This narrative frames the dinosaur-humanoid war as an for environmental collapse and colonial exploitation, with Reptilon's downfall serving as a for Earth's future. Compared to the original animated series, the comic features aged-up characters with updated, more realistic designs that emphasize their humanoid-dinosaur hybrid forms, shifting from cartoonish aesthetics to a grittier style suitable for older readers. Themes are more mature, incorporating political intrigue, ecological disaster, and strategic warfare rather than episodic adventures; notably, Genghis Rex is elevated to king status, and the story introduces dinoid variants for Reptilon's inhabitants while naming previously anonymous elements like Paul (now Cary) and making and siblings, inspired by Uslan's own children. The focus remains on the adult Dinosaucers and Tyrannos, with human involvement limited to tech-savvy teens rather than child protagonists in powered suits. The series received generally positive feedback for its nostalgic revival and timely environmental messaging, earning a 4.2 out of 5 rating on from reader reviews praising its artwork and story updates, though some critics noted pacing issues in individual issues. The concluded on a in its fifth issue, with no further volumes or issues published as of 2025. As a limited-run from an independent publisher, physical copies became scarce post-release, but it remains available digitally through platforms like .

Episodes

Production and Format

The production of Dinosaucers involved a collaborative writing process led by creator , who developed the core concept and contributed to several scripts. Episodes were scripted by a team of over 20 writers, including (who penned the premiere episode "Dinosaur Valley"), Brynne Stephens, Marsha Goodman, Brooks Wachtel, Doug Molitor, Ron Harris, Avril Roy-Smith, Richard Mueller, and others, resulting in 65 unique stories that followed a formulaic structure of setup, conflict, and resolution centered on the ongoing rivalry between the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos. The series adopted a standard animated television of 65 half-hour episodes, each approximately 22 minutes in length excluding commercials, designed for daily weekday syndication to capitalize on after-school viewing slots. This structure emphasized standalone adventures per episode while incorporating loose serialization through recurring conflicts, such as escalating threats from the Tyrannos' attempts to exploit Earth's resources in multi-episode storylines. The musical elements were composed by and , who provided the original score and the energetic opening theme that highlighted themes of adventure and interplanetary conflict between the dinosaur factions. Sound effects, including distinctive transformations for the characters' "Dinovolving" ability, enhanced the action sequences and were integrated into the score to underscore dramatic moments.

Episode Guide

The Dinosaucers series consists of 65 episodes that aired in syndication across the United States from September 14, 1987, to December 11, 1987. Due to its syndicated format, the episodes were produced in five blocks of 13 episodes each to facilitate distribution to local stations, though they aired in a near-sequential order without major deviations from production numbering. All episodes were directed by Stephan Martinieri. Writing credits for the series include contributions from Diane Duane, Michael E. Uslan, Felicia Maliani, and Brooks Wachtel for the initial episodes, with additional writers such as Allan Cole, Arthur Byron Cover, Carla Conway, Chris Bunch, Craig Miller, David Bischoff, David Wise, and Dennis O'Neil across the run; specific per-episode writer information is limited in available records, as all scripts were developed in 1987. No episodes were lost or unaired. The early episodes primarily introduce the arrival of the Dinosaucers and Tyrannos factions on Earth and their initial alliances with human children, while mid-season installments often incorporate Earth-based holidays, sports, and cultural elements into the conflict. Later episodes escalate the stakes with more direct invasion attempts and interplanetary elements. Below is a comprehensive listing of all episodes, grouped by the five syndication blocks, including titles, air dates, known writers, and brief non-spoiler overviews focused on key setups.

Block 1 (Episodes 1–13: Introduction to Earth Conflicts)

These episodes establish the core premise, with the Dinosaucers landing on to secure energy sources and clashing with the antagonistic Tyrannos.
#TitleAir DateWriterOverview
1Dinosaur ValleySep 14, The Tyrannos establish a base in a hidden valley full of ore-disrupting dinosaurs, drawing the Dinosaucers to investigate Genghis Rex's plans.
2Take Us Out to the BallgameSep 15, The Secret Scouts teach the Dinosaucers about , leading to a misunderstanding when the Tyrannos misinterpret a "diamond" reference.
3Happy Egg-Day to YouSep 16, Celebrations for Paul's birthday are interrupted by the Tyrannos' scheme to use a Dinovolving device on humans.
4Hooray for HollywoodSep 17, Felicia MalianiThe Dinosaucers and David explore a dinosaur-themed show at a Hollywood studio, unknowingly followed by the Tyrannos on a scouting mission.
5Divide and ConquerSep 18, A fabricated news report lures Allo and David away, leaving the rest of the team vulnerable to Tyranno interference.
6A Real Super HeroSep 21, Brooks WachtelSarah and Bonehead encounter a superhero film set, where the Tyrannos mistake a prop for a real threat.
7Burgers Up!Sep 22, N/AThe Tyrannos target a frozen hamburger shipment, believing it to be a powerful energy source for their operations.
8Be PreparedSep 23, N/AThe Dinosaucers and Secret Scouts embark on a camping trip to hone survival skills amid potential Tyranno ambushes.
9That Shrinking FeelingSep 24, N/ATeryx's experimental 4-D ray accidentally shrinks both Dinosaucers and Tyrannos, sparking a tiny-scale rivalry.
10Rockin' ReptilesSep 25, N/ADavid's rock band performance leads the Tyrannos to mistake the musicians for disguised Dinosaucers.
11Sleeping BootySep 28, N/AGenghis Rex schemes to awaken and recruit a colossal prehistoric monster to aid in 's conquest.
12The First SnowSep 29, N/APaul and Sara introduce the Dinosaucers to winter activities, complicated by a sudden Tyranno incursion.
13Trick or CheatSep 30, N/AThe Secret Scouts demonstrate magic tricks for a holiday event, inspiring Quackpot to devise his own disruptive illusions.

Block 2 (Episodes 14–26: Building Alliances and Earth Adventures)

Mid-early episodes emphasize , with Dinosaucers forming bonds with humans while countering Tyranno pranks and resource grabs.
#TitleAir DateWriterOverview
14Defective DefectorOct 1, 1987N/AA defector ray causes Quackpot to temporarily join the Dinosaucers, leading to chaotic pranks within both factions.
15For the Love of TeryxOct 2, 1987N/ASara aids Teryx in navigating her emotions toward Ichy, as Genghis Rex plots to exploit her vulnerabilities.
16A Man's Best Friend Is His DogasaurusOct 5, 1987N/AHousehold pets are transformed into mini-dinosaurs, prompting the Tyrannos to seek them as potential allies.
17Carnivore in RioOct 6, 1987N/ADinosaucers and Tyrannos compete in the to recover a misplaced Reptilon artifact.
18Frozen Fur BallsOct 7, 1987N/AAn attack on a supply vessel strands Stego and Bonehead, who must collaborate with locals to repel the Tyrannos.
19Hook, Line and StinkerOct 8, 1987N/AThe team rushes to shield Plesio from human attempting to document and capture him.
20The Prehistoric PurgeOct 9, 1987N/AStego enters a wrestling competition, providing an opening for the Tyrannos to abduct the Secret Scouts.
21The Truth about DragonsOct 12, 1987N/AIn , the Tyrannos pursue a legendary "superpower" source, guided by a boy who confuses myths with reality.
22Chariots of the DinosaucersOct 13, 1987N/AAn archaeologist is coerced by the Tyrannos to uncover ancient dinovolving secrets from Stego-Ra's tomb.
23Eggs Mark the SpotOct 14, 1987N/AA race ensues between Dinosaucers, Secret Scouts, and Tyrannos to safeguard valuable pteranodon eggs.
24Mommy Dino-DearestOct 15, 1987N/ABonehead's mother arrives with a mysterious device, becoming a prime target for Genghis Rex's schemes.
25The Whale's SongOct 16, 1987N/AIn the , the Dinosaucers ally with whales to prevent the Tyrannos from claiming a fallen meteor.
26Inquiring MindsOct 19, 1987N/ASara's photographs of the Dinosaucers attract a reporter secretly collaborating with the Tyrannos.

Block 3 (Episodes 27–39: Cultural Clashes and Holiday Themes)

This block incorporates Earth customs like sports and festivals, heightening comedic rivalries while advancing character arcs.
#TitleAir DateWriterOverview
27War of the Worlds... IIOct 20, David's cousin's about alien invaders creates widespread panic, drawing Tyranno opportunists.
28Beach Blanket BoneheadOct 21, A temporary truce allows a beach relaxation day, but the Tyrannos tail the Dinosaucers covertly.
29The Bone Ranger and BrontoOct 22, A discovery inspires a Wild West reenactment, pulling in both factions.
30CindersaurusOct 23, Teryx experiments with a transformation device to experience dances and social events.
31Trouble in ParadiseOct 26, In , the Tyrannos deploy a weather cannon to trap the Dinosaucers, forcing Stego into a solo rescue.
32Monday Night ClawballOct 27, A football match resolves a dispute over rare reptilite, pitting Dinosaucers against Tyrannos.
33Age of AquariumsOct 28, Plesio attempts to liberate captive sea creatures from an aquarium, aiming to spark an uprising.
34Scents of WonderOct 29, The Tyrannos acquire a they believe to be a mind-control for global domination.
35Fine-Feathered FriendsOct 30, Teryx falls ill, prompting Allo to consult the Dinosorceress, who is then targeted by a suspicious birdwatcher.
36Allo & Cos-Stego Meet the Abominable Nov 2, Genghis Rex deceives Stego into a quest for the legendary , unveiling unexpected truths.
37The Quack-Up of QuackpotNov 3, Quackpot's elaborate April Fools' pranks escalate, challenging the Secret Scouts to contain the mayhem.
38It's an Archaeopteryx-It's a Plane-It's Thunder-LizardNov 4, Bronto Thunder adopts a to impress a romantic interest during a crisis.
39Teacher's PestNov 5, Bonehead infiltrates a disguised as a student, providing leverage for Genghis Rex's plot.

Block 4 (Episodes 40–52: Escalating Schemes and Global Threats)

Episodes here feature technology mishaps and international settings, with Tyrannos pushing bolder invasion tactics.
#TitleAir DateWriterOverview
40Dino-Chips!Nov 6, 1987N/AThe Tyrannos infiltrate a tech firm by sabotaging it with advanced Reptilon computer chips.
41The Heart and Sole of Nov 9, 1987N/AQuackpot's device mutates a into a Bigfoot-like being, igniting a pursuit across forests.
42Karatesaurus WrecksNov 10, 1987N/AWhile filming a kaiju movie in Japan, the Dinosaucers encounter Tyrannos training in martial arts.
43Lochs and Bay GullsNov 11, 1987N/AGenghis Rex hunts the Loch Ness Monster for power, but Plesio develops an unexpected affection for it.
44The Trojan HorseasaurusNov 12, 1987N/AQuackpot disguises himself as an ancient Reptilon figure to exact revenge on his rivals.
45We're Off to See the LizardNov 13, 1987N/AA Tyranno-induced tornado transports Sara into a fantastical world resembling Oz.
46Seeing PurpleNov 16, 1987N/AAn illness strikes the Dinosaucers, forcing the Secret Scouts to conceal their weakness from the Tyrannos.
47There's No Such Thing as Stego-ClawsNov 17, 1987N/AHoliday festivities for Merry Dinosaur Day are disrupted by Tyrannos, leading Bonehead and David to invoke a mythical helper.
48ApplesaucersNov 18, 1987N/ADavid, Allo, and Dimetro defend a family farm from Tyranno encroachment threatening its operations.
49Reduced for ClarenceNov 19, 1987N/AAt a circus, the Tyrannos pursue a clown named Clarence, suspecting him of possessing a shrink ray.
50Attack of the Fur BallsNov 20, 1987N/AUgh and Grunt's experiment unleashes furry chaos, turning household items into rampaging creatures.
51Dinosaur DundyNov 23, 1987N/ABronto Thunder, Tricero, Sara, and David travel to Florida to recover stolen dinosaur eggs from a rogue archaeologist and a mutated threat.
52Those Reptilon NightsNov 24, 1987N/ATricero returns to Reptilon to reclaim a stolen artifact known as the Maltese Pterodactyl.

Block 5 (Episodes 53–65: Climactic Invasions and Resolutions)

The final block intensifies inter-faction warfare, incorporating Reptilon returns and large-scale battles, while tying into societal elements like competitions and justice systems.
#TitleAir DateWriterOverview
53The DinolympicsNov 25, 1987N/AAllo organizes an Olympic-style event to foster between factions, as Sara competes in her own games.
54Sara Had a Little Nov 26, 1987N/ADimetro shadows Sara at , bonding with her challenging lab partner amid experiments.
55Beauty and the BoneheadNov 27, 1987N/AGenghis Rex steals a -enhancing perfume for conquest plans, while Bonehead crushes on the inventor's daughter.
56The of Natural Nov 30, 1987N/AThe Secret Scouts are captured and displayed in a bizarre , requiring Allo to orchestrate their escape.
57Saber-Tooth or ConsequencesDec 1, 1987N/AArriving saber-tooth tiger force an uneasy between Dinosaucers and Tyrannos to repel .
58Camp TyrannoDec 2, 1987N/AThe Tyrannos misinterpret a Secret Scouts' as military training and establish a rival outpost.
59The BabysitterDec 3, 1987N/ABonehead entrusts his sibling Numbskull to Quackpot's care while attending a Reptilon exhibition.
60Toy-Ranno Store WarsDec 4, 1987N/AToy advertisements confuse the Tyrannos into believing commercials reveal secrets, leading to David's abduction.
61The T-Bone's StakesDec 7, 1987N/AA ray gun animates dinosaur skeletons under Tyranno control, challenging the Dinosaucers in a bony uprising.
62The Scales of JusticeDec 8, 1987N/AFrustrated by defeats, the Tyrannos drag the Dinosaucers into a mock Reptilon court for judgment.
63I Got Those Ol' Reptilon Blues Again, MommasaurDec 9, 1987N/AReturning Tyrannos seek old jobs on Reptilon, prompting Allo, Teryx, and Bronto Thunder to probe suspicious motives.
64I Was a Teenage Dec 10, 1987N/AThe Tyrannos transform Styraco into a to infiltrate and steal Paul's project as an energy device.
65The FriendDec 11, 1987N/AStego forms a with a named Peter, taking him to Reptilon where Tyrannos mistake his for advanced prototypes.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Response

Upon its debut in syndication in 1987, Dinosaucers garnered limited critical attention, reflecting its status as a short-lived produced primarily to promote a toy line that ultimately underperformed commercially. The show's formulaic structure, centered on anthropomorphic dinosaurs battling for control of Earth, was seen as energetic but derivative of trends like transforming heroes, with reviewers noting its overt commercial intent. Retrospective analyses have highlighted the series' nostalgic charm and light-hearted action, praising its unique premise of space-faring dinosaurs allying with teens against villains, which provided engaging, if simplistic, for young audiences. However, common critiques point to flaws such as generic , repetitive episode formats with reused sequences, and stereotypical character archetypes that contributed to its quick cancellation after 65 episodes. User-driven ratings reflect this mixed legacy, with an score of 6.4 out of 10 based on 819 votes as of 2025, often citing the fun and theme song as highlights amid dated production values. The 2018–2019 comic reboot by , which reimagined the franchise with millennial protagonists combating on Reptilon alongside the Dinosaucers, earned modest acclaim for modernizing environmental themes absent in the original. Volume 1 received a 4.2 out of 5 rating on Amazon from 18 customer reviews, with praise for its updated narrative focus on ecological issues and resistance against tyrannical forces, though critic scores averaged around 5.0 out of 10 from limited professional assessments.

Cultural Impact and Fandom

Dinosaucers has garnered a dedicated among enthusiasts of , cherished for its nostalgic evocation of Saturday morning cartoons and the era's blend of sci-fi adventure with prehistoric themes. Fans maintain interest through online communities and platforms, including dedicated playlists that compile and share full episodes, preserving accessibility for new generations. The series played a role in the broader dinosaur craze, capitalizing on children's fascination with s and in a toy-driven media landscape similar to contemporaries like , which featured armored prehistoric creatures in intergalactic conflicts. This cultural moment influenced subsequent dinosaur-themed media, though Dinosaucers itself remains a niche example of the period's creative excess. The involvement of creator Michael Uslan, who later served as executive producer on the Batman film franchise starting with the adaptation, lends additional trivia appeal, connecting the show to one of cinema's most enduring properties. Efforts to revive the franchise include a 2018 comic book miniseries published by , written by Uslan and illustrated by Andrew Pepoy, which reimagined the anthropomorphic dinosaurs' interstellar conflict with a more mature tone aimed at exploring themes like planetary resource exploitation. Fan-driven activities, such as podcasts and videos, continue to highlight the series' quirks, exemplified by a 2020 documentary that delves into its production history and Uslan's Batman ties. By 2025, Dinosaucers' legacy endures through collectible memorabilia, including rare VHS releases from the 1990s and prototype toys originally planned by Galoob but limited to a small Brazilian production run, which command premium prices among retro collectors. While no major film or television adaptations have materialized, the series is frequently referenced in discussions of forgotten 1980s cartoons, underscoring its place in nostalgic pop culture retrospectives.

References

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