The Cobra Troopers serve as the basic foot soldiers of the Cobra Organization , as part of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toyline, comic books and animated series. They are generally depicted as legions of uniformed soldiers, nearly all of them masked to appear anonymous, and widely diversified according to specialties and functions.
101-782: The Cobra Soldiers were introduced in 1982, with the code name "The Enemy". These are the basic infantry soldiers equipped with conventional military gear (as opposed to the more hi-tech accouterments of the later Vipers). They were prominently featured on both the cartoon and comic series, and depicted as unintelligent and slightly cowardly. Cobra infantry troopers are issued a combination assault rifle and grenade launcher, with advanced night vision, telescopic sight, and range finder. Multi-layered body armor and composite helmets with built-in communications gear are standard issue. Vipers are superbly trained, formidably equipped, and highly motivated. Later, Cobra troopers consisted of communications troops, computer specialists, security, and soldiers. Some of
202-515: A Range-Viper appeared as a boss in the game. Vipers also appeared in the game G.I. Joe: The Atlantis Factor . Konami released an arcade-only G.I.Joe video game in 1992. Vipers were prominent enemies. Hasbro Hasbro, Inc. ( / ˈ h æ z b r oʊ / ; a syllabic abbreviation of its original name, Hassenfeld Brothers ) is an American multinational toy manufacturing and entertainment holding company founded on December 6, 1923 by Henry, Hillel and Herman Hassenfeld and
303-703: A Range-Viper appeared as a boss in the game. Vipers also appeared in the game G.I. Joe: The Atlantis Factor . Konami released an arcade-only G.I.Joe video game in 1992. Vipers were prominent enemies. Viper (G.I. Joe) The Cobra Troopers serve as the basic foot soldiers of the Cobra Organization , as part of the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toyline, comic books and animated series. They are generally depicted as legions of uniformed soldiers, nearly all of them masked to appear anonymous, and widely diversified according to specialties and functions. The Cobra Soldiers were introduced in 1982, with
404-407: A detailed article that Hasbro came close to buying Lionsgate , exploring options to expand its entertainment division and bolster its content production capabilities due to interest in film and television ventures, but the deal fell through. On February 16, 2018, Saban Brands appointed Hasbro as the global master toy licensee for Power Rangers with a future collaboration and option to purchase
505-482: A hypodermic needle-shaped water gun tagged by the press as a "junior junkie" kit. Both were recalled. Romper Room and its toy line had continued success, although Action for Children's Television citizens group considered the program to be an advertising channel for toys. Merrill Hassenfeld took over as CEO in 1974, and his son Stephen D. Hassenfeld became president. The company became profitable once again but had mixed results due to cash flow problems from increasing
606-645: A makeover, with rides being redone and renamed to Hasbro properties. Construction was begun later that month and scheduled to wrap up in late 2020. On August 22, 2019, Hasbro announced its purchase of Entertainment One for about US$ 4 billion. The deal was completed on December 30, 2019. On October 24, 2019, Hasbro announced the closing of Backflip Studios, while its Wizards of the Coast subsidiary purchased Tuque Games in October. On February 28, 2020, Hasbro announced that Campbell Arnott's former CMO David McNeil had joined
707-420: A manufacturer of infant products and the world's largest bib producer, and Knickerbocker Toy Company, a struggling Warner Communications subsidiary. Hasbro paid 37% of its stock to Warner, which was paid into Hasbro's executive-controlled voting trust, and also received a cash infusion. In 1984, Alan G. Hassenfeld took over as president from his brother Stephen, who continued as CEO and chairman. That same year,
808-414: A new five-year contract. As of fiscal year 2012, Goldner had a total calculated compensation of $ 9,684,285. On July 9, 2013, Backflip Studios sold a 70% stake in the company to Hasbro for $ 112 million in cash. On November 6, 2012, it was rumored that The Walt Disney Company was discussing a multi-billion dollar deal to acquire Hasbro. While Hasbro declined to discuss the rumor, advisors stated there
909-517: A new subsidiary called Hasbro Entertainment , founded on August 16, 2023. The company celebrated their 100th anniversary on December 6, 2023. Three Polish-Jewish brothers, Herman, Hillel, and Henry Hassenfeld, founded Hassenfeld Brothers in Providence, Rhode Island , in late 1923, a company selling textile remnants. Over the next two decades, the company expanded to produce pencil cases and school supplies. On January 8, 1926, Hassenfeld Brothers
1010-523: A push to claim power in America, Cobra forces have used microscopic nanites to attack everything from communication systems to random citizens. Vipers and Cobra allies are presented as "saviors", but they are simply outright killers, for example they murder every member of a US National Guard relief convoy and distribute the supplies themselves. Vipers are part of the forces that march on the White House , which
1111-419: A push to claim power in America, Cobra forces have used microscopic nanites to attack everything from communication systems to random citizens. Vipers and Cobra allies are presented as "saviors", but they are simply outright killers, for example they murder every member of a US National Guard relief convoy and distribute the supplies themselves. Vipers are part of the forces that march on the White House , which
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#17328586112791212-532: A team of Autobots into the Dinobots . The Cobra Troopers were the foot soldiers of Cobra in the Sunbow G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero cartoon. They were voiced by several voice actors including Michael Bell , Arthur Burghardt , Peter Cullen , Pat Fraley , Buster Jones , Chris Latta , Bill Ratner , and Frank Welker . The Cobra Vipers made their first animated appearance in "Arise Serpentor Arise!", which began
1313-432: A team of Autobots into the Dinobots . The Cobra Troopers were the foot soldiers of Cobra in the Sunbow G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero cartoon. They were voiced by several voice actors including Michael Bell , Arthur Burghardt , Peter Cullen , Pat Fraley , Buster Jones , Chris Latta , Bill Ratner , and Frank Welker . The Cobra Vipers made their first animated appearance in "Arise Serpentor Arise!", which began
1414-604: A television cooking show. Two new 1970s toys were public relations disasters. One of the toys was named Javelin Darts which were similar to the ancient Roman plumbata . On December 19, 1988, the Consumer Product Safety Commission banned lawn darts from sale in the United States due to their hazards as a flying projectile with a sharp metal point causing multiple deaths. The other toy was named The Hypo-Squirt,
1515-725: A unit on an attack on G.I. Joe's headquarters, The Pit . ^a The Hydro-Vipers are actually part of the Cobra Eels and the Ice-Vipers are part of the Snow Serpents . How it is that these troops are "Vipers" and yet part of a non-Viper unit has never been explained by Hasbro. The first figure to receive the designation "Viper" was the Viper Pilot (included with the Cobra Viper Attack Glider) in 1983. In 1985, Hasbro released
1616-443: A unit on an attack on G.I. Joe's headquarters, The Pit . ^a The Hydro-Vipers are actually part of the Cobra Eels and the Ice-Vipers are part of the Snow Serpents . How it is that these troops are "Vipers" and yet part of a non-Viper unit has never been explained by Hasbro. The first figure to receive the designation "Viper" was the Viper Pilot (included with the Cobra Viper Attack Glider) in 1983. In 1985, Hasbro released
1717-507: A year. The training is highly selective, and more than 50% of the applicants quit before completing the course. The Morays are the next step in marine warfare, evolving from the most elite of the Eel division. They must undergo the same rigorous training program, which involves underwater fighting techniques, the study of marine geology, and the use of explosive ordnance. However, the Morays also utilize
1818-412: A year. The training is highly selective, and more than 50% of the applicants quit before completing the course. The Morays are the next step in marine warfare, evolving from the most elite of the Eel division. They must undergo the same rigorous training program, which involves underwater fighting techniques, the study of marine geology, and the use of explosive ordnance. However, the Morays also utilize
1919-455: Is defended by a multi-military effort, including several Joe soldiers. The Vipers kill multiple Joe rookies (collectively called " Greenshirts "). Several Alley-Vipers are slain while assisting the Dreadnoks in battling an out of control Battle Android Trooper . A single Alley-Viper is a part of the team combing Cobra Island for the infiltrator Barrel Roll . Several Alley-Vipers are part of
2020-400: Is defended by a multi-military effort, including several Joe soldiers. The Vipers kill multiple Joe rookies (collectively called " Greenshirts "). Several Alley-Vipers are slain while assisting the Dreadnoks in battling an out of control Battle Android Trooper . A single Alley-Viper is a part of the team combing Cobra Island for the infiltrator Barrel Roll . Several Alley-Vipers are part of
2121-643: Is incorporated and headquartered in Pawtucket, Rhode Island . Hasbro owns the trademarks and products of Kenner , Milton Bradley , Parker Brothers , and Wizards of the Coast , among others. As of August 2020, over 81.5% of its shares were held by large financial institutions. Among Hasbro's products are Transformers , G.I. Joe , Power Rangers , Rom the Space Knight , Micronauts , M.A.S.K. , Monopoly , Furby , Nerf , Potato Head , Ouija boards , Play-Doh , Twister , and My Little Pony , and with
SECTION 20
#17328586112792222-622: The Entertainment One (now Lionsgate Canada ) acquisition on December 30, 2019, franchises like Peppa Pig and PJ Masks . Hasbro also spawned TV shows to promote its products, such as Family Game Night on the Discovery Family network. Hasbro sold Entertainment One to Lionsgate (now Starz Entertainment ) on December 27, 2023, however, it kept eOne's family brands and eOne's stake in Astley Baker Davies , placing them into
2323-512: The G.I. Joe comic book series published by Marvel Comics , this version of the Viper was portrayed in a yellow-gold color. This new uniform did not last long and the more familiar Viper look later returned. Alley Vipers made their first appearance in issue #92 of the G.I. Joe series. They fight the G.I. Joe Team in the fictional city of Rio Lindo. Several Cobra Vipers fight the Joe team in issue #113, in
2424-417: The G.I. Joe comic book series published by Marvel Comics , this version of the Viper was portrayed in a yellow-gold color. This new uniform did not last long and the more familiar Viper look later returned. Alley Vipers made their first appearance in issue #92 of the G.I. Joe series. They fight the G.I. Joe Team in the fictional city of Rio Lindo. Several Cobra Vipers fight the Joe team in issue #113, in
2525-468: The G.I. Joe toy in 1964 which they termed an " action figure " in order to market it to boys who wouldn't want to play with dolls. In 1964 and 1965, G.I. Joe accounted for two-thirds of Hassenfeld's sales. The company had previously sold toys under the Hasbro trade name, and it shortened its name to Hasbro Industries on July 12, 1968, and sold a minor stake in the corporation to the public. The Vietnam War
2626-584: The Resolute cartoon, and were in an all blue uniform. The Cobra Troopers in G.I. Joe: Renegades were depicted as the security guards for the facilities of Cobra Industries, such as Cobra Pharmaceuticals. They were voiced by Charlie Adler , Carlos Alazraqui , Michael Bell , Matthew Yang King , Andrew Kishino , Jason Marsden , Khary Payton , and Kevin Michael Richardson . In G.I. Joe: Renegades , there are also different Vipers who are not human: In
2727-473: The Resolute cartoon, and were in an all blue uniform. The Cobra Troopers in G.I. Joe: Renegades were depicted as the security guards for the facilities of Cobra Industries, such as Cobra Pharmaceuticals. They were voiced by Charlie Adler , Carlos Alazraqui , Michael Bell , Matthew Yang King , Andrew Kishino , Jason Marsden , Khary Payton , and Kevin Michael Richardson . In G.I. Joe: Renegades , there are also different Vipers who are not human: In
2828-465: The 1983 International Tokyo Toy Show [ ja ] , the company licensed the toylines and subsequently launched the successful Transformers toy line along with a children's animated TV series two years later. With the toys and TV series being popular, Stephen Hassenfeld posed with the toys for a People magazine cover photo. In 1982, Hasbro produced the successful toy franchise My Little Pony . In 1983, they purchased GLENCO Infant Items,
2929-467: The 2009 film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra , Neo-Vipers were Cobra troopers who were enhanced with nanomites by The Doctor. These enhancements removed their self-preservation instincts and their sense of pain, and made them completely obedient to Cobra. Cobra Vipers originally consisted mostly of mercenaries and criminals, however after the completion of all of Cobra's nano experimentation Neo-Vipers may have mostly consisted of kidnapped soldiers from around
3030-467: The 2009 film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra , Neo-Vipers were Cobra troopers who were enhanced with nanomites by The Doctor. These enhancements removed their self-preservation instincts and their sense of pain, and made them completely obedient to Cobra. Cobra Vipers originally consisted mostly of mercenaries and criminals, however after the completion of all of Cobra's nano experimentation Neo-Vipers may have mostly consisted of kidnapped soldiers from around
3131-636: The CEO and chairman of the board. Between 1978 and 1981, Stephen reduced the Hasbro product line by one-third and its new products by one-half. Hasbro focused on simple, low-cost, longer life-cycle toys like Mr. Potato Head. Hasbro thus stayed out of the electronic games field which went bust in the early 1980s. In 1982, Hasbro revived its G.I. Joe line with the help of Marvel Comics , as an anti-terrorist special forces team based on current events. Following an interest in Takara 's Diaclone and Micro Change toylines in
Cobra Troopers - Misplaced Pages Continue
3232-449: The Coast was bought in a deal worth $ 325 million. Wizards of the Coast is now a subsidiary of Hasbro and has Avalon Hill as its division. In 2001 money-losing Hasbro Interactive was sold to Infogrames , a French software concern, for $ 100 million. Hasbro entered the building block toy with its Built to Rule line in 2003, which did not hold together well or were too hard for the targeted age group, thus ended in 2005. In 2004,
3333-509: The Coast subsidiary "posted revenue of $ 816 million last year, up 24% from 2019, fueled by what Hasbro says were record years for" Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering . ICv2 reported, "the WotC and Digital Gaming segment is over $ 112 million more than the operating profit for Hasbro's entire consumer products segment" and that "Wizards of the Coast on its own is also more profitable than Hasbro's consumer products segment [...]. From
3434-532: The Cobra Viper figure. The Viper's uniform featured a black flak jacket and a mirrored mask that resembled the battle mask worn by Cobra Commander . This figure was later released both as part of the Python Patrol and Sonic Fighters sub-lines of G.I. Joe in alternate colors, in 1989 and 1990 respectively. In 1994 a new standard infantry Viper figure was released with a new look (purple armor with gas mask). In
3535-421: The Cobra Viper figure. The Viper's uniform featured a black flak jacket and a mirrored mask that resembled the battle mask worn by Cobra Commander . This figure was later released both as part of the Python Patrol and Sonic Fighters sub-lines of G.I. Joe in alternate colors, in 1989 and 1990 respectively. In 1994 a new standard infantry Viper figure was released with a new look (purple armor with gas mask). In
3636-527: The Cobra forces infiltrating the town of New Moon, Colorado, and are also used in a Cobra demonstration at Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington . A Range-Viper code-named Skull Buster had made his home in the wilds of Namibia. When Shipwreck and Cover-Girl wash up on shore, he decides to kill them by faking their deaths from exposure; simple murder would cause too much of an investigation and disrupt his 'retirement' in
3737-428: The Cobra forces infiltrating the town of New Moon, Colorado, and are also used in a Cobra demonstration at Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington . A Range-Viper code-named Skull Buster had made his home in the wilds of Namibia. When Shipwreck and Cover-Girl wash up on shore, he decides to kill them by faking their deaths from exposure; simple murder would cause too much of an investigation and disrupt his 'retirement' in
3838-554: The Far East as an important market to expand. In 1992, Hasbro purchased Nomura Toys Ltd. in Japan, and majority ownership of Palmyra, a Southeast Asian toy distributor. These increased the proportion of international sales from 22% in 1985 to 45% ($ 1.28 billion) in 1995. In 1993, Hasbro lost its bid for J. W. Spear & Sons , a U.K.-based game maker, to Mattel . In the US, Hasbro's growth since 1980
3939-819: The Hasbro Toy Group. Meanwhile, Mattel purchased Fisher-Price and retook the top spot in the toy industry. Hasbro Interactive was started in 1995 and released the Monopoly game on CD-ROM. Mattel also proposed a merger that year, but was turned down by the Hasbro board in 1996 due to antitrust issues and Justice Department investigation into exclusionary policies between toy manufacturers and toy retailers, particularly Toys "R" Us . In 1998, Hasbro bought Avalon Hill for $ 6 million and Galoob for $ 220 million. That same year, Milton Bradley merged with Parker Bros. to form Hasbro Games. In 1999, Hasbro paid $ 325 million for rights to Pokémon toys. The same year, Wizards of
4040-526: The Tele-Viper (Cobra Communications) alongside other Cobra troops without the Viper designation, such as the Snow Serpent (Cobra Polar Assault) and the Eel (Cobra Frogman). For the most part since then, Cobra troops, including drivers and pilots, have had the Viper code name attached to their area of expertise. The Cobra Soldier figure was the standard infantry trooper for Cobra, until 1986 when Hasbro released
4141-417: The Tele-Viper (Cobra Communications) alongside other Cobra troops without the Viper designation, such as the Snow Serpent (Cobra Polar Assault) and the Eel (Cobra Frogman). For the most part since then, Cobra troops, including drivers and pilots, have had the Viper code name attached to their area of expertise. The Cobra Soldier figure was the standard infantry trooper for Cobra, until 1986 when Hasbro released
Cobra Troopers - Misplaced Pages Continue
4242-476: The alternate universe series, G.I. Joe Vs. Transformers 2 . As with other prominent Joe and Cobra characters, they agree to help rescue time-stranded Transformers . Failure means non-existence for all humans. One viper, Percy, goes with the Baroness, Beach-Head and Roadblock and Prohibition time and tries to assist there; though he is mostly derided for his efforts. Another assists three Joes in dinosaur times, turning
4343-615: The building block market since the failure of the Built to Rule line, Hasbro re-entered the market with the Kre-O line in late 2011, starting with some Transformers -based sets. In 2012, Hasbro received a $ 1.6 million tax credit from the state of Rhode Island with a promise to create 245 new jobs in the state. Instead, they laid off more than 125 workers. This was followed in 2013 with further layoffs of North American workers, amounting to 10% of its salaried employees. Meanwhile, CEO Brian Goldner signed
4444-501: The bush. Shipwreck stuns the man with scorpion venom and he is taken back to civilization, a fate he fears. A particular Range-Viper code-named Body Bags is featured in a long running storyline in the America's Elite comics. He is one of many drawn from the ranks of Cobra soldiers to join The Plague , Cobra's latest answer to the elite of the G.I. Joe team. Two Vipers becomes swept up in
4545-412: The bush. Shipwreck stuns the man with scorpion venom and he is taken back to civilization, a fate he fears. A particular Range-Viper code-named Body Bags is featured in a long running storyline in the America's Elite comics. He is one of many drawn from the ranks of Cobra soldiers to join The Plague , Cobra's latest answer to the elite of the G.I. Joe team. Two Vipers becomes swept up in the events of
4646-538: The cartoon with one Range-Viper voiced by Mark Acheson . Two Range-Vipers appeared to have a vendetta against two G.I. Joe members Captain Grid-Iron and Ambush . Techno-Vipers and Hydro-Vipers were only featured (cartoon-wise) in the commercials, since the 80s Sunbow cartoon had finished its production by the time their figures were released. The Cobra Soldiers appear in G.I. Joe: Sigma 6 . Cobra Soldiers appear in G.I. Joe: Resolute . Alley Vipers were updated for
4747-486: The cartoon with one Range-Viper voiced by Mark Acheson . Two Range-Vipers appeared to have a vendetta against two G.I. Joe members Captain Grid-Iron and Ambush . Techno-Vipers and Hydro-Vipers were only featured (cartoon-wise) in the commercials, since the 80s Sunbow cartoon had finished its production by the time their figures were released. The Cobra Soldiers appear in G.I. Joe: Sigma 6 . Cobra Soldiers appear in G.I. Joe: Resolute . Alley Vipers were updated for
4848-403: The chairman position. However, the executives clashed and Shea left after a few months, and Stephen and Alan returned to their previous positions. On June 6, 1985, the company changed its name again to just Hasbro, Inc. The Jumpstarters toys were the subject of a lawsuit in 1985 when Hasbro sued a toy manufacturer for selling toys based on their Transformers design. Hasbro won the suit. In
4949-735: The code name "The Enemy". These are the basic infantry soldiers equipped with conventional military gear (as opposed to the more hi-tech accouterments of the later Vipers). They were prominently featured on both the cartoon and comic series, and depicted as unintelligent and slightly cowardly. Cobra infantry troopers are issued a combination assault rifle and grenade launcher, with advanced night vision, telescopic sight, and range finder. Multi-layered body armor and composite helmets with built-in communications gear are standard issue. Vipers are superbly trained, formidably equipped, and highly motivated. Later, Cobra troopers consisted of communications troops, computer specialists, security, and soldiers. Some of
5050-683: The company as the managing director for Pacific operations. On September 30, 2020, Renegade Game Studios announced they had acquired licensing for creating tabletop games for multiple Hasbro brands. Several of the games would be using the 5E role-playing system owned by Hasbro's subsidiary Wizards of the Coast. On February 25, 2021, during the 2021 Investor Event, Hasbro announced a company reorganization with three divisions: Consumer Products, Entertainment, and Wizards & Digital. The Wall Street Journal reported that "Hasbro's net revenue fell 8% last year to $ 5.47 billion, due in part to retail shutdowns related to Covid-19," however, its Wizards of
5151-490: The company entered into a deal with Paramount Home Entertainment to release its programs based on its games and toys on VHS and DVD. In 2008, Hasbro acquired game maker Cranium, Inc. for $ 77.5 million. The deal was announced on January 4 and closed on January 25. Hasbro and Universal Pictures signed an agreement in February 2008 to derive four films from seven Hasbro properties for production. In May, Bennett Schneir
SECTION 50
#17328586112795252-518: The company having gone from sales of $ 104 million in the year he took control to 1989 sales of over $ 1.4 billion. Alan succeeded Stephen as chairman and CEO. In 1991, Hasbro purchased Tonka Corp. for $ 486 million, along with its units Parker Brothers , the maker of Monopoly , and Kenner Products . Milton Bradley and Parker Brothers were merged into one division. Alan moved to expand Hasbro overseas with new units in Greece, Hungary, and Mexico. Alan saw
5353-486: The company introduced Flubber , but reports of sore throats and rashes from the product and knock-offs prompted an investigation by the Food and Drug Administration and a voluntary recall by Hassenfeld Brothers. The company was approached in 1963 to license a toy based on The Lieutenant , which they turned down because they did not want to be tied to a possibly short-lived television series. Instead, Hassenfeld Brothers produced
5454-485: The company praise from Greenpeace executive director Phil Radford , who said: "The new Hasbro policy will also increase the recycled and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper in its toy packaging. Hasbro's new commitments are great news for Indonesian rainforests and the people and wildlife that depend on them." By April 2011, Hasbro started 360 Manufacturing Services, a contract OEM game manufacturing operating out of Hasbro's USA plant. Having been absent from
5555-534: The company to post a $ 1 million loss for the year. In 1970, Hasbro began a plan of diversification and opened the Romper Room Nursery School franchise chain to cash in on President Richard Nixon 's Family Assistance Plan which subsidized day care for working mothers. By 1975, the company had ended the nursery chain. Hasbro also entered the cookware field with the Galloping Gourmet line based on
5656-493: The company was the nation's sixth best-selling toymaker, and then acquired the Milton Bradley Company , which was the nation's fifth best-selling toymaker. This brought The Game of Life , Twister , Easy Money , and Playskool into the Hasbro fold and on September 10 transformed Hasbro into Hasbro Bradley . Stephen Hassenfeld became the merged company's president and CEO, with Milton Bradley chief James Shea Jr. taking
5757-521: The company's treatment of the Empire Pencil subsidiary as Empire received lower levels of capital spending relative to profits than did the toy division. With Merrill's death in 1979, Harold did not recognize Stephen's authority as the successor to the chairman and CEO position. As a solution, Hasbro spun off Empire Pencil in 1980, which was the nation's largest pencil maker, with Harold trading his Hasbro shares for those of Empire. Stephen then became both
5858-592: The control of its chief content officer. Hasbro announced that it would launch its own convention, named HasCon , and featuring "all things Hasbro" in 2016, with the inaugural event being held at the Rhode Island Convention Center in September 2017. On November 15, 2017, Mattel, Inc. rejected an offer from the company. At the time, Mattel's worth was $ 5 billion, while Hasbro's worth was about $ 11 billion. On February 27, 2018, Variety reported in
5959-561: The crews of large Cobra naval vessels. The Cobra Lampreys are Cobra's amphibious assault troopers, responsible for operation of Cobra naval vehicles, patrol around naval bases and attack. They are culled from the Eel units, and are considered elite among Cobra naval troopers, with only the Cobra Morays considered higher. To qualify for Lamprey training, candidates must be a Cobra Trooper in top physical condition, have completed his Eel training, and have been operational as an Eel for more than
6060-505: The crews of large Cobra naval vessels. The Cobra Lampreys are Cobra's amphibious assault troopers, responsible for operation of Cobra naval vehicles, patrol around naval bases and attack. They are culled from the Eel units, and are considered elite among Cobra naval troopers, with only the Cobra Morays considered higher. To qualify for Lamprey training, candidates must be a Cobra Trooper in top physical condition, have completed his Eel training, and have been operational as an Eel for more than
6161-523: The end of 2015, Disney gave Hasbro a chance to gain the license given their work on Star Wars , which led to a Descendants license. DCP was also attempting to evolve the brand from one of them less as damsels and more as heroines. In September 2014, Disney announced that Hasbro would be the doll licensee for the Disney Princess line starting on January 1, 2016. On July 13, 2016, Hasbro acquired Dublin-based Boulder Media Limited and placed it under
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#17328586112796262-503: The episode "Injustice and the Cobra Way". The Alley Vipers played heavy into the plot of the first mini series from the DiC produced G.I. Joe cartoon. G.I. Joe member Scoop is in training as a Crimson Guardsman and his closest friend in Cobra is an Alley Viper (voiced by Jim Byrnes ). Scoop helps Cobra Commander take control back from Serpentor . The Range-Vipers appeared in many episodes of
6363-405: The episode "Injustice and the Cobra Way". The Alley Vipers played heavy into the plot of the first mini series from the DiC produced G.I. Joe cartoon. G.I. Joe member Scoop is in training as a Crimson Guardsman and his closest friend in Cobra is an Alley Viper (voiced by Jim Byrnes ). Scoop helps Cobra Commander take control back from Serpentor . The Range-Vipers appeared in many episodes of
6464-439: The events of the alternate universe series, G.I. Joe Vs. Transformers 2 . As with other prominent Joe and Cobra characters, they agree to help rescue time-stranded Transformers . Failure means non-existence for all humans. One viper, Percy, goes with the Baroness, Beach-Head and Roadblock and Prohibition time and tries to assist there; though he is mostly derided for his efforts. Another assists three Joes in dinosaur times, turning
6565-809: The fictional country of Benzheen, including Alley Vipers, Frag-Vipers and one Range-Viper. An Alley-Viper and Frag Viper send out a child into fire, this draws Sneak Peek , whom the Range-Viper kills. Other Joes raid the Cobra position, and the Alley-Viper is killed by Stalker . Alley Vipers also fight Mutt and Spirit in Millville, a town Cobra was attempting to conquer, and appear in issue #145, where they fight G.I. Joe in Borovia. Vipers are seen working closely with Dreadnoks in Cobra's first push to revive in seven years. They then work closely with Iron Grenadiers . In
6666-595: The fictional country of Benzheen, including Alley Vipers, Frag-Vipers and one Range-Viper. An Alley-Viper and Frag Viper send out a child into fire, this draws Sneak Peek , whom the Range-Viper kills. Other Joes raid the Cobra position, and the Alley-Viper is killed by Stalker . Alley Vipers also fight Mutt and Spirit in Millville, a town Cobra was attempting to conquer, and appear in issue #145, where they fight G.I. Joe in Borovia. Vipers are seen working closely with Dreadnoks in Cobra's first push to revive in seven years. They then work closely with Iron Grenadiers . In
6767-576: The foot soldiers in the DiC G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero cartoon. Some of the Cobra Troopers loyal to Cobra Commander became soldiers in Cobra Commander's Python Patrol . Following G.I. Joe: The Movie , in the DiC run of cartoons , the main silver face-plated Cobra Vipers were replaced by various branches of Vipers such as Range-Vipers and Laser-Vipers. One Laser-Viper was voiced by Rick Poltaruk in
6868-416: The foot soldiers in the DiC G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero cartoon. Some of the Cobra Troopers loyal to Cobra Commander became soldiers in Cobra Commander's Python Patrol . Following G.I. Joe: The Movie , in the DiC run of cartoons , the main silver face-plated Cobra Vipers were replaced by various branches of Vipers such as Range-Vipers and Laser-Vipers. One Laser-Viper was voiced by Rick Poltaruk in
6969-401: The franchise. On May 1, 2018, Hasbro agreed to purchase Power Rangers and other entertainment assets from Saban Brands for $ 522 million in cash and stock with the licensing fee recently paid with credit. The sale, which also collaborated with My Pet Monster , Popples , Julius Jr. , Treehouse Detectives and additional properties, was expected to close in the second quarter until it
7070-743: The hotel when it opened in 2019. Hasbro granted Kingsmen Creatives a license to build a chain of NERF Action Xperience family entertainment centers, with the first to be opened in Singapore in fall/winter 2019. In November, the company issued a license for family entertainment centers to Kilburn Live, who were to launch a new division for the centers. That December, the company granted a license for theme parks to Imagine Resorts and Hotels, co-founded by Bruce Neviaser. Neviaser had previously co-founded Great Lakes Companies, which launched Great Wolf Resorts indoor waterpark resorts. On December 18, 2019, Hasbro and West Edmonton Mall announced that Galaxyland would get
7171-508: The intent to sell its last two factories, in Ireland and East Longmeadow, Massachusetts (including its 360 Manufacturing Services), to Cartamundi . The deal was set to close in sixty days. Hasbro signed a five-year deal with Cartamundi to produce their board games at the East Longmeadow plant. With Mattel adding two competing lines, and the expiration of their Disney Princess license at
7272-918: The introduction of "Tele-Vipers" (communication experts), quickly evolved into a catch-all suffix for all future Cobra troops (such as Air-Viper, Ice-Vipers, Desert-Vipers, Techno-Vipers, etc.). Hasbro has often alternated between establishing the Vipers as the entry-level position into Cobra's legion, or for them to be the elite of Cobra's ground troops, as far as them being equal to or above the regular soldier troops. Vipers can opt for additional training that enables them to transfer to specialized units, focusing on specific military specialties. These units are considered elite and are constantly examined for effectiveness. Some are renamed and reorganized, absorbed into other units, or sometimes completely phased out. Some units customize their chain of command, allowing for unique Viper designations with distinct leaders. The Cobra Eels are
7373-868: The introduction of "Tele-Vipers" (communication experts), quickly evolved into a catch-all suffix for all future Cobra troops (such as Air-Viper, Ice-Vipers, Desert-Vipers, Techno-Vipers, etc.). Hasbro has often alternated between establishing the Vipers as the entry-level position into Cobra's legion, or for them to be the elite of Cobra's ground troops, as far as them being equal to or above the regular soldier troops. Vipers can opt for additional training that enables them to transfer to specialized units, focusing on specific military specialties. These units are considered elite and are constantly examined for effectiveness. Some are renamed and reorganized, absorbed into other units, or sometimes completely phased out. Some units customize their chain of command, allowing for unique Viper designations with distinct leaders. The Cobra Eels are
7474-645: The late 1980s, Hasbro moved to increase international sales by taking toys overseas that had failed in the US market and selling them for as much as four times the original price. This increased international sales from $ 268 million in 1985 to $ 433 million in 1988. In 1988, Hasbro purchased part of Coleco Industries' indoor and outdoor children's furniture and ride-on toy product lines for $ 21 million including two just closed manufacturing plants in Amsterdam, New York. In July 1989, Hasbro acquired bankrupt Coleco for $ 85 million. Stephen Hassenfeld died later that year with
7575-521: The mid-1980s, Hasbro moved past Mattel to become the world's largest toy company. Hasbro then moved to outsell Mattel's Barbie in the fashion doll market with the 1986 introduction of Jem , a record producer/rock musician dual identity fashion doll. Jem initially posted strong sales but plummeted and was withdrawn from the market in 1987. Hasbro followed up in 1988 with Maxie , a Barbie-sized blonde doll, so that Barbie clothing and accessories would fit. Maxie lasted until 1990. Under Alan's initiative in
7676-492: The more prominent include: Viper is the code-name given to a large majority of the Cobra Troopers. With the exception of the Viper infantry trooper, the code name "Viper" is usually preceded by their area of expertise. Introduced in 1986 as a replacement for the Cobra Soldiers, the Cobra Viper infantry soldiers complement the Cobra Soldiers in both the cartoon and comic series. The concept, originally introduced in 1985 with
7777-435: The more prominent include: Viper is the code-name given to a large majority of the Cobra Troopers. With the exception of the Viper infantry trooper, the code name "Viper" is usually preceded by their area of expertise. Introduced in 1986 as a replacement for the Cobra Soldiers, the Cobra Viper infantry soldiers complement the Cobra Soldiers in both the cartoon and comic series. The concept, originally introduced in 1985 with
7878-526: The number of toys in the line to offset G.I. Joe's declining sales. Hasbro ended the G.I. Joe line in 1975 because of the rising prices of plastic and crude oil. In 1977, Hasbro's losses were $ 2.5 million, and the company held a large debt load. That same year, Hasbro acquired licensing rights to Peanuts cartoon characters. With the financial situation poor, Hasbro's bankers made the company temporarily stop dividend payments in early 1979. The toy division's losses increased Harold Hassenfeld's resentment regarding
7979-485: The plastic fields during World War II to support its toy line. The Hassenfeld brothers, immigrants from Ulanów , Poland, also spent the war years helping to rescue and employ fellow Jews from Ulanów; Jacob Klapper, a holocaust survivor born in Ulanów, recalled being told when he arrived in the United States that Hassenfeld Brothers would employ any survivor from Ulanów, no questions asked. Hassenfeld Brothers' first popular toy
8080-663: The revival of the My Little Pony franchise, My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic , which became the network's highest-rated program and attracted a significant cult following among teens and adults . The Hub Network was rebranded as Discovery Family on October 13, 2014. In 2013, Hasbro renewed its deal to produce Marvel Comics and Star Wars toys through at least 2020. In 2011, Greenpeace accused Hasbro of purchasing paper for its packaging from ancient forests in Indonesia. Hasbro changed its paper purchasing policy, earning
8181-733: The same bio-tech engineering that is used by the Neo-Vipers , which gives them increased strength, underwater vision, and bodies that can better withstand the pressures of deep sea diving. Snow Serpents are the Arctic Specialist branch of Cobra. They must undergo the same rigorous training program as the Eels, with the addition of a six-month cold weather course, somewhere above the Arctic Circle. Other aspects of their training include airborne operations under arctic conditions, anti-tank procedures, and
8282-517: The same bio-tech engineering that is used by the Neo-Vipers , which gives them increased strength, underwater vision, and bodies that can better withstand the pressures of deep sea diving. Snow Serpents are the Arctic Specialist branch of Cobra. They must undergo the same rigorous training program as the Eels, with the addition of a six-month cold weather course, somewhere above the Arctic Circle. Other aspects of their training include airborne operations under arctic conditions, anti-tank procedures, and
8383-502: The second season of the Sunbow produced series. They were used as common infantry for the remainder of the season, primarily replacing the blue and black masked Cobra soldiers of the first season (although those soldiers would still appear from time to time). One Viper was voiced by Michael Bell . The Strato-Vipers that spoke were voiced by Jack Angel and Bill Ratner . The Tele-Vipers that spoke were voiced by Michael Bell , Chris Latta , and Frank Welker . The Cobra Troopers were also
8484-502: The second season of the Sunbow produced series. They were used as common infantry for the remainder of the season, primarily replacing the blue and black masked Cobra soldiers of the first season (although those soldiers would still appear from time to time). One Viper was voiced by Michael Bell . The Strato-Vipers that spoke were voiced by Jack Angel and Bill Ratner . The Tele-Vipers that spoke were voiced by Michael Bell , Chris Latta , and Frank Welker . The Cobra Troopers were also
8585-486: The subject's central nervous system, making the subject completely under the absolute control of their controller (the only exception to this was Zartan, who destroyed the neural controlling nanomites before he was injected). Some Vipers (such as Hydro-Vipers and Toxo-Vipers) appeared as regular enemies in the 1991 G.I. Joe video game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Unusually for a non-individual,
8686-414: The subject's central nervous system, making the subject completely under the absolute control of their controller (the only exception to this was Zartan, who destroyed the neural controlling nanomites before he was injected). Some Vipers (such as Hydro-Vipers and Toxo-Vipers) appeared as regular enemies in the 1991 G.I. Joe video game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Unusually for a non-individual,
8787-586: The underwater demolition specialists of the Cobra legions. They undergo a rigorous two-part training program, first in the shark and pirate infested waters of the Caribbean, and then in the frigid depths of the North Atlantic. Their training regimen includes marine engineering, explosive ordnance, underwater fighting techniques, and marine geology. Eels are responsible for manning and operating Cobra marine outposts disguised as off-shore drilling rigs, and for augmenting
8888-477: The underwater demolition specialists of the Cobra legions. They undergo a rigorous two-part training program, first in the shark and pirate infested waters of the Caribbean, and then in the frigid depths of the North Atlantic. Their training regimen includes marine engineering, explosive ordnance, underwater fighting techniques, and marine geology. Eels are responsible for manning and operating Cobra marine outposts disguised as off-shore drilling rigs, and for augmenting
8989-560: The use of snow-shoes, skis and kayaks. The Crimson Guard are the most elite soldiers of Cobra's Viper legions, under the direct command of Tomax and Xamot , but completely loyal to Cobra Commander , serving as his personal guard. Python Patrol is a codename given to a subgroup of Vipers and other Cobra troops whose uniforms have undergone the "pythonization" process. This renders their uniforms immune to radar and other forms of electronic detection. The unit has been led by both Copperhead and Major Bludd . In one instance, Zarana leads
9090-559: The use of snow-shoes, skis and kayaks. The Crimson Guard are the most elite soldiers of Cobra's Viper legions, under the direct command of Tomax and Xamot , but completely loyal to Cobra Commander , serving as his personal guard. Python Patrol is a codename given to a subgroup of Vipers and other Cobra troops whose uniforms have undergone the "pythonization" process. This renders their uniforms immune to radar and other forms of electronic detection. The unit has been led by both Copperhead and Major Bludd . In one instance, Zarana leads
9191-431: The world. Twenty mercenaries were selected for the painful series of injections, and the ones who did not die became super soldiers. Each subject was injected with 1,000 CCs of nanomite solution, which left a small scar in the shape of a small cobra's head (all nano injected members of Cobra bear this mark, including Baroness, Zartan and much later Destro). After injection, specially designed nanomites both attack and rewire
9292-431: The world. Twenty mercenaries were selected for the painful series of injections, and the ones who did not die became super soldiers. Each subject was injected with 1,000 CCs of nanomite solution, which left a small scar in the shape of a small cobra's head (all nano injected members of Cobra bear this mark, including Baroness, Zartan and much later Destro). After injection, specially designed nanomites both attack and rewire
9393-603: Was Mr. Potato Head , which the company purchased from George Lerner in 1952. In 1954, the company became a Disney major licensee. In 1960, Henry died and Merrill took over the parent company, and his older brother Harold ran the pencil-making business of Empire Pencil. Hassenfeld Brothers expanded to Canada with Hassenfeld Brothers (Canada) Ltd. in 1961. In 1962, Hasbro purchased the former Potter & Johnston manufacturing company building on Newport Avenue in Pawtucket, Rhode Island . The Pawtucket plant facilities were eventually expanded to over 300,000 square feet. In 1963
9494-489: Was "absolutely nothing going on" they knew of between the two companies. Additionally, financial analysts said the deal was illogical, as the rumor came out just a week after Disney had acquired Lucasfilm . Hasbro was named by Fortune magazine as one of the top 100 companies to work for in 2013, citing that the "company enhanced its vacation policy by giving new employees three weeks off in their first year instead of having to wait five years." On November 12, 2014, it
9595-431: Was at its height in 1969, so Hasbro redesigned GI Joe to be less militaristic and more adventure-oriented. Its promotional efforts included the catchphrase "Boy Oh Boy! It's A Hasbro Toy!" in television commercials and print ads. Also in 1969, Hasbro bought Burt Claster Enterprises which produced " Romper Room " and had just begun a Romper Room toy line. A month-long Teamsters strike and Far Eastern supplier troubles caused
9696-538: Was finished with Saban's collab. On October 19, 2018, the company announced plans to cut jobs amounting to less than 10% of its 5,000-plus global workforce in response to changes in how consumers buy toys. In 2018, Hasbro signed a number of licensing agreements for hospitality deals based on Hasbro brands. On May 1, 2018, the Monopoly Mansion hotel agreement was announced by Hasbro, with M101 Holdings overseeing construction and M101's Sirocco Group assigned to manage
9797-486: Was formed for TV development, production and distribution. On December 11, 2012, Hasbro transferred all entertainment divisions to Hasbro Studios, including their LA-based film group, and Cake Mix Studio, the company's Rhode Island–based producer of commercials and short form content. Hasbro collaborated with Discovery on The Hub , a cable television network targeting younger children and families, which launched on October 10, 2010. The venture found unexpected success with
9898-452: Was from acquisitions and the leveraging of the new assets. New product development was not as successful except for film and TV tie-in product lines with Jurassic Park and Barney . Thus, US sales were stagnant in the early 1990s, falling from 1993 to 1995. To turn domestic performance around in 1994, Hasbro merged the Hasbro Toy, Playskool, Playskool Baby, Kenner, and Kid Dimension units into
9999-597: Was hired to lead its Hasbro Films division, while Hasbro also reacquired series based on their properties from Sunbow Productions . The year of his promotion to CEO of Hasbro, Brian Goldner was named CEO of the year by News Corp affiliate website MarketWatch .com. Goldner became the first person not from the founding Hassenfeld family to hold the position. In 2009, the Milton Bradley and Parker Bros. brands were retired after eleven years and eight years of Hasbro ownership respectively. That same year, Hasbro Studios
10100-541: Was incorporated in Rhode Island; Hillel left for another textile business while Henry took charge of the corporation. They began making their own pencils after their pencil supplier began making pencil cases as well. Hassenfeld Brothers produced modeling clay and then doctor and nurse kits as their first toys, and they became primarily a toy company by 1942. Hillel died in 1943 and Henry Hassenfeld became CEO, while his son Anthony Merrill became president. The company entered
10201-417: Was reported that Hasbro was in talks to buy DreamWorks Animation . The proposal reportedly calls for the combined company to take the name "DreamWorks-Hasbro" and for Jeffrey Katzenberg to become its chairman, but as a matter of policy, neither Hasbro nor DWA publicly comment on mergers and acquisitions. Two days later, the talks were reported to have fallen through. On July 14, 2015, the company announced
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