Secret Wars Used Child-Tested Words

In 1984, Marvel editor-in-chief Jim Shooter's crossover series Secret Wars received its name after Mattel focus groups found that children responded positively to the words "secret" and "wars." Marvel originally announced the 12-issue series as Cosmic Champions but renamed it while developing a related Mattel toy line. Mattel also influenced the story and designs, asking Marvel to upgrade Doctor Doom and Iron Man's armor and add fortresses, vehicles, and weapons with greater play value. Secret Wars became a bestseller, selling more copies than any other comic published during the previous 25 years.

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