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Updated 3/1/25
Welcome to Part 2 of my Retro Rainbow series! If you're just joining me, this series is all about celebrating the vibrant colors of nostalgia by highlighting some of my favorite retro finds—each post inspired by a different shade of the classic rainbow. In my last post, we explored the bold and fiery world of red collectibles from my personal collection. Today, we’re moving on to the next color in "Roy G. Biv": the lively and energetic hue of orange.
From iconic anime releases to cherished comics and classic cartoons, orange pops up in so many nostalgic treasures. These pieces are more than just collectibles—they're snapshots of moments that shaped my love for retro media. Each item tells a story, and I’m thrilled to share those stories with you.
As you scroll through this list, I hope it sparks some nostalgia of your own. Maybe you remember watching Teen Titans on Cartoon Network, battling it out in Tekken 5, or discovering hidden animated gems like Rock & Rule. That’s the magic of retro collecting—it’s not just about the items themselves, but the memories and emotions they bring back.
1.Dirty Pair: Affair on Nolandia (1985)
My introduction to the Dirty Pair series came via its spin-off, Dirty Pair Flash. My affection for both shows is equal; each possesses its unique charm. Embarking on a collection journey this summer, I eagerly began amassing both series and accompanying movies. The anticipation of completing the collection adds to the excitement. The distinctive qualities of each installment, coupled with the overall allure of the Dirty Pair universe, make this collecting venture a delightful exploration into the captivating world of these dynamic and entertaining series. I'm eagerly anticipating the completion of my collection!
2.Dragon Ball Z (1989)
Ranked as my second favorite way to experience Dragon Ball Z, the orange brick release holds a special place for me (the Ocean dub takes the top spot). Inspired by my love for the series, I initiated a quest to collect autographs from the talented Funimation cast. My first encounter with a Dragon Ball actor was Cynthia Cranz at Tokyo in Tulsa (now called Tokyo,OK) in 2014—a moment etched in my memory as my first anime convention experience. The nervous excitement I felt then only deepened my appreciation for the anime community and its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
What makes Dragon Ball Z so special to me isn’t just the action-packed battles or the iconic transformations—it’s the sense of community it fostered. Collecting autographs became more than a hobby; it was a way to connect with the people who brought these beloved characters to life. Each signature feels like a small piece of the series' history, a reminder of the countless hours spent watching Goku push his limits or Vegeta wrestle with his pride. This love for the series even led me to start attending Kamehacon, the ultimate Dragon Ball convention. Being surrounded by fans who share the same passion, meeting voice actors, and celebrating everything Dragon Ball has only solidified its place in my heart. It’s more than an anime—it’s a shared experience that continues to inspire and unite fans across generations.
3. Rock & Rule (1983)
Unlike many fans of this film, I didn’t grow up watching it—I wasn’t even born yet. I actually discovered it through a Great Mouse Detective forum, where someone compared Ratigan, the film’s villain, to Mok from Rock & Rule. That piqued my curiosity, so I tracked the movie down online and later bought my own copy as I got older.
Rock & Rule is a must-watch for music lovers. While the storyline has its flaws, the way the music and animation blend together more than makes up for it. The soundtrack is a gem, featuring artists like Debbie Harry, Cheap Trick, ZZ Top, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lou Reed, and more. To this day, “Send Love Through” and “Triumph” are still on my regular playlist.
"Rock and Rule" is available on DVD.
4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)
When I was in college, I was a cashier at Walmart. After my shift, I would browse the entertainment area to see what DVDs I could scoop up. One day, I found the first three TMNT movies for $5 each. I loved watching the movies as a kid so I was glad to finally own them. The first film was a departure from the popular animated series but I still consider it one of the best adaptations of the series.
The 90s TMNT trilogy is available on DVD and BluRay.
5. The New Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (1984)
Like many kids in the 2000s, I was a huge fan of the Teen Titans animated series on Cartoon Network. With its bold animation, unforgettable theme song, and surprisingly deep storylines, it quickly became a staple of my childhood. While I knew of the original Teen Titans from the comics, the show was my gateway into the world of the ’80s Titans—the legendary lineup from The New Teen Titans era, created by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez.
Curiosity sparked, I began reading comic scans online whenever I could, eager to learn more about the source material. The dynamic team of Robin, Starfire, Raven, Beast Boy, and Cyborg felt even richer when I discovered their complex histories and character arcs in the comics.
In 2005, I received my very first Teen Titans comic as a Christmas gift—a cherished copy I read over and over again until the pages practically felt like old friends. That gift ignited a deeper love for the series, and once I got my first job, I started collecting other New Teen Titans issues, carefully building my own personal library.
To this day, The New Teen Titans remains my favorite comic book series. It’s more than nostalgia—it’s a story of friendship, heroism, and growing up, much like my own journey alongside these unforgettable characters.
6. Charmander, Pokémon (1996)
As a lifelong Pokémon enthusiast, my unwavering commitment to the Pokémon world remains steadfast. While the original games aren't my primary focus, the anime and manga hold a special place in my heart. The enduring nostalgia for the classic starters led me to acquire a Charmander Funko Pop figure, a tangible expression of my ongoing passion. The irresistible cuteness of Charmander made it a must-have addition to my Pokémon collection. Now proudly displayed, this little Charmander serves as a cherished link to the captivating animated universe that has been an integral part of my life for years.
You can check out the Charmander Funko Pop right here.
7. Tekken 5 (2004)
Undoubtedly, my all-time favorite fighting series is Tekken. The vibrant array of characters with their eccentric backstories adds a unique charm that I thoroughly enjoy. Despite the convoluted storyline, I find it endlessly fascinating. Following my less-than-ideal experience with Tekken 4 (my least favorite entry), the arrival of Tekken 5 brought immense joy. It now holds the top spot in my ranking, surpassing even Tekken Tag 2 as my preferred installment in this beloved series.
8. Atom Ant Pez Dispenser (1965)
“Up and Atom, Atom Ant!” Discovering an Atom Ant Pez Dispenser at Game Stop brought a smile to my face. Its undeniable charm hooked me, and I couldn't resist adding it to my collection. Atom Ant triggers fond memories of Cartoon Network's golden era when classic shows filled the airwaves. Before their shift to original content, the network served as a haven for cartoon enthusiasts. Atom Ant, with his small but mighty character, symbolizes that cherished past. This Pez Dispenser isn't just a trinket; it's a tangible link to the animated history that resonates with collectors and fans alike.
So, what did you think of my favorite orange finds? Did any of these resonate with you, or do you have your own favorite orange treasures from the past? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s keep the nostalgia train rolling!
And if you missed the first part of the Retro Rainbow series, don’t worry—you can catch up right here:
Red
Yellow
Green
