Background info: G1 and G2 MLPs
1982-1995 ca. Generation 1 MLPs (also referred to as “the classics” or “original design”), a worldwide success
1997-2003 Generation 2 MLPs, restyled, less popular and less appealing, soon discontinued in North America. In Europe the line lasted long enough to coexist with Generation 3.
G3 MLPs: outline of the current line
2003 the third MLP generation hits the shelves in summer. The 2003 theme is “Celebration”.
Sets: Rainbow Ponies (rainbow-haired), Glitter Ponies (tinsel in hair), Winter Ponies (X-mas themed ponies), Season/Celebration Ponies (season-themed ponies), accessories play-sets, building play-sets.
First baby pony (Pink Sunsparkle) and first European-only exclusive (Winter Snow). First pony Point Program exclusive (Dazzle Surprise)
(Find out more: 2003 review by Silverfall)
2004 Even more ponies, the theme is the “Friendship ball”
Novelties: Sparkle Ponies (ponies with glitter on their forehead), Jewel Ponies (ponies with 3D jewels on their rump) and Super-long Hair Ponies are introduced. Later in the same year Rainbow Ponies and Glitter Ponies are merged into a single group, called Perfectly Ponies. Holiday-themed ponies include the first Easter/Spring themed set.
The very first Pegasus is introduced (Star Catcher). Her wing design, however, will not be used for future pegasi.
Other products, including plush ponies, So-soft Baby ponies (doll-like ponies targeted at younger children) and Tiny Tins Ponies are introduced.
Second Pony Point Program exclusive (Sunshimmer)
2005 The new theme is “Butterfly Island”
The brand new sets of the year, all tropical themed, include: Shimmer Ponies, Dazzle Bright Ponies, Sunny Scent Ponies, Dream Design Ponies. A Jewel Birthday Ponies set is also introduced, as well as a variety of playsets. Valentine’s Day Ponies are included among the other holyday-themed ponies.
Pegasi are redisigned as Star Catcher’s design was unappealing and introduced to the line. Very first baby pegasus introduced (Honolu-loo).
Third (and so far, last) Pony Point Program exclusive (Love Wishes)
2006 theme: “Crystal Princesses”
Novelties: Pretty Patterns, Cutie Cascade, Crystal Design, all noticeable for their elaborate Cutie Mark designs, and Devine Shine (see-through bodied ponies filled with glitter)
First unicorn is introduced (Rarity)
2007 celebration for the 25th anniversary of My Little Pony
The original six MLPs, along with the original six rainbow ponies are re-issued for the event.
Unicorns effectively become part of the line. Ponyville ponies are introduced.
2008 Pegasi wings are re-designed.
What does future hold? What new ideas and designs will Hasbro creatives com up with?
Source: it would be impossible to split first hand information from the collective contribution of all collectors. However, a huge thank you goes to Silverfall for her incredible and attentive work as chronicler between 2003 and 2007.
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