Action Figures
What is an action figure?
An action figure is usually a miniaturized figurine based on a character from a movie, cartoon, graphic novel, television programme or video game. Action figures are usually made of plastic or resin and are crafted with significant attention to detail, to faithfully incorporate the essence of the original character onto the figure.
Brief history of action figures
Action figures have been around since the 1960s. The G.I. Joe action figure was one of the first to be launched and licensed for manufacturing across the world. Since then, in every decade, action figures have reflected popular culture and have enjoyed enormous popularity, especially among boys. In recent times, collecting action figures has also become a popular hobby for adults. In fact, action figures of characters such as Batman, Joker, Hellboy, and Green Lantern are as popular with adult collectors as they are with youngsters! With the culture of movie/comic book merchandising on the rise, action figures will continue to be popular in the years to come. |  |
Most popular action figures
Masters of the Universe: Created by Mattel, the MOTU series is a cultural icon. The most popular action figures based on this franchise are undoubtedly He-Man, Skeletor, Beast Man, Keldor and Evil Lyn.
G.I. Joe: This cult favourite was a huge success with characters like Ninja Snake Eyes, Duke, Baroness, Storm Shadow and Destro, apart from of course, the entire G.I Joe team in varied gear.
Thundercats: The most successful action figures based on this animation TV series were Amok, Vultureman, Lion-O, Mumm-Ra and Cheetara.
Transformers: This epic toy line from Hasbro has become the stuff of legend since its launch in the 1980s! The most popular action figures include (no prizes for guessing) the lovable Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, The Fallen, Swerve, Skids and Mudflap.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Manufactured by Playmates Toys, Splinter, Shredder, Bebop, April O'Neil and Rocksteady were the original ninja turtles before a plethora of allies and enemies were introduced.
Spawn: The Spawn figures are made by McFarlane Toys and are hugely popular. Spawn reborn, Medieval Spawn, Spawn Mutations, She Spawn and various other avatars of Spawn (pirate, poacher etc.) are all equally popular.
Batman: This one needs no introduction. With well-etched out characters in the comic books and almost every movie, action figures of Batman, Nightwing, The Joker, The Penguin and The Riddler are all-time favourites.
Star Wars: With more than 90 figures, the Star Wars action figure collection is one of the most extensive. Action figures of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, Darth Vader and Boba Fett are recognized the world over.
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