Topps released the Mars Attacks! trading card series, known for its distinctive and controversial imagery depicting a Martian invasion of Earth.
The Mars Attacks! trading cards faced bans and censorship in several places due to their graphic and violent content, fueling their notoriety and cult status.
The Mars Attacks! franchise expanded into comics, offering more stories set in the Martian invasion universe and maintaining fan interest.
Topps reissued the Mars Attacks! trading card sets with updated artwork and additional story content, revitalizing the franchise for new generations.
Tim Burton directed and released the Mars Attacks! feature film, a science fiction comedy that parodied alien invasion tropes and featured an ensemble cast.
A video game adaptation of the Mars Attacks! universe was released, expanding the franchise into interactive media.
Discussions began about creating an animated series based on the Mars Attacks! franchise to further expand its reach.
The Martian fleet arrives in Earth's orbit, signaling the beginning of the invasion.
Earthlings attempt peaceful communication with the Martians, but initial interactions lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
The Martians launch attacks on multiple major cities worldwide using their advanced weaponry, causing widespread destruction.
Earth governments mobilize their military forces to counter the Martian strikes and protect civilian populations.
Martians deploy mind control devices to manipulate human leaders and sow chaos among Earth's defenders.
Scientists discover that Martians have a peculiar vulnerability when exposed to a specific frequency emitted by traditional playing cards, which can defeat them.
Earth's forces implement the playing cards tactic, leading to successful defeats of Martian invaders in critical battles.
After heavy losses, the Martians retreat from Earth, ending the invasion.
Earth begins to recover from the damages of the invasion and investigates the implications of Martian technology and biology.