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Sure to please both DC and Marvel fans, two new twin packs are on the shelves now. The long awaited American Heroes two-pack featuring the Electro-Spark Captain America and a new Bucky figure will soon hit the shelves as a Toys R Us exclusive. The item includes a magnetic address book, but the real feature here is the inclusion of a brand new shield for Captain America. Many fans were disappointed by the action-feature shield used with the original release of the Star Spangled Avenger. Toy Biz listened to fan feedback and has now included a perfect new shield with this swanky twin pack.
Although the Bucky figure appears to be a redeco, the result is hard to argue with. Cap's longtime sidekick is apporpriately scaled and appears to use the Doc Samson body with a Peter Parker head. Although Bucky was killed in the line of duty, he can now live on forever in your action figure collection!
Not to be outdone, Kenner has released the World's Finest two-pack to coincide with the video release of the Man of Steel and the Caped Crusader's first animated video pairing. This item is a Wal-Mart exclusive and features a slightly redecoed Batman from the Batman the Animated Series and Capture Net Superman from Superman the Animated Series. Both figures include cloth capes (the original Supes featured a plastic cape...thanks for the correction folks!).
Look for another re-teaming of the World's Finest on the new Batman-Superman Adventures in the upcoming season.
Martian Manhunter himself wasn't shown, but some of the rest of the upcoming JLA line was shown at SDCC 98, along with the Previews exclusive STAS figures. Go take a look at these both, plus the JLA catalog shots in our SDCC DC coverage.
And check back there and Hasbro's page August 31 for a sneak at some Prequel toys!
Get prepared for this fall when you will be able to get the first action figure from the Star Wars prequel. Although the actual figure design has yet to be unveiled, we found an ad for the "Sneak Preview" offer while attending the Comic-Con International in San Diego.
For all the details and a photo of the ad, check our On-Site Coverage of Comic-Con International. While you are there, check out the load sof other stuff we dug up including pics of the new DC figures, new Tekken 3 figures and a variety of other toy goodies.
America's favorite weekly comics newsletter and our own Raving Toy Maniac are joining forces to provide comic shop patrons with the latest news on upcoming direct market toys and action figures.
"The action figure and toy market is crossing over with the comic book market more than ever nowadays, and
Comic Shop News wants to meet the needs of comic book readers and retailers by offering the latest
up-to-the-minute news regarding action figures and toys available only through comic shops and other specialty
outlets. [RTM] is in touch with that market, and [they] can help us ensure that our readers have the latest info on
exclusives and collectibles that they can find at their local comic shops" said CSN Co-Editor Cliff Biggers.
Check out our On-Site Coverage of Comic-Con International for all the full story!
King World Features' classic character the Phantom is finally getting the action figure it deserves. Flatt World Figures has unveiled its latest license at the Comic-Con International in San Diego.
Look for a highly poseable recreation of the classic Phantom with a realistic cloth costume and accessories. For all the scoop, including a look at the prototype, check out our On-Site Coverage of Comic-Con International. And while you are there, be sure to look for other developments with Flatt World Figures. These new offerings are sure to be some of the most talked about items this year!
This new 4-pack is showing up at Target stores for $19.99. No word yet on if these will be a limited run or not, or if they're just a Target exclusive. All figures have slightly new, subtly metallic paint jobs, with Batgirl getting a complete repaint in her new outfit. We'll keep you posted with new info as we get it.
The Hollywood Reporter brings us some interesting DC toy news from the fast food front. Starting October 12, Subway Sandwich Shops are doing a back-to-school
promotion with DC Comics Characters.
The toys in question will apparently be PVC-like "Backpack Hangars" to attach to backpack zippers. The names mentioned were Superman, Batman, Aquaman, Wonder Woman and "others."
Also, DC Comic Super Hero Collector Cups will be given away with extra
large drinks. The promotion will run for six weeks. No word if any other DC offerings or related toys are in the offing from Subway.
Apparently, this promotion is the mastermind of John Ehrlich, senior VP advertising promotions for Warner Bros. Better get a BMT ASAP for some DC!
You can pick up the latest issues of Lee's Action Figure News & Toy Review or White's Guide to Collecting Figures right now. Each magazine will probably appeal to a different audience so choose wisely fair reader.
He Man fans will want to pick up the latest Lee's for its visual retrospective on the Masters of the Universe line from Mattel. Each figure and variation is displayed along with a little info about the line as a whole. The cover features the new McFarlane Toys' Dark Ages Skull Queen and you can see all the figures from that upcoming assortment inside.
There is also a nice Transformers article and an attempt to document a few of the variations found among the X-Files figures (though by recent counts, there are more than 100 variations, albeit some are quite minor).
Beanie Baby coverage continues to creep into AFN&TR, but they don't hold a candle to White's Guide for all things Beanie. White's continues to be the largest magazine on the stands, but most of those extra pages are ads (and ads for Beanie Babies at that).
There isn't much new news in White's, but you can expect its usual varied coverage of all things collectible. Articles on Gene, Barbie, Hallmark Ornaments, SLU's, and more can be found within this issue.
White's has added another exclusive to its ever-growing stable. This time out it's an exclusive Susan Ivanova from the popular Babylon 5 series. This piece is limited to a print run of 5000 and will set you back $14.95 plus shipping and handling. The figure will come carded with a special Starfury spaceship miniature. It's estimated to begin shipping in late September so pick up this issue for ordering info.
Check with your local comic or magazine retailer to locate either of these new issues.
Playmates Toys Inc.
Tuesday announced a new lineup of boys' toys and collectibles that will be
unveiled at the upcoming "pre-Toy Fair" in New York and will reach retail
shelves this fall.
The new lines reflect licensing agreements recently secured by Playmates, giving the company the rights to several of the hottest properties hitting the marketplace in the fourth quarter.
New from Playmates for the fall are toys and collectibles based on the upcoming feature film "Antz," a co-production of DreamWorks Animation and PDI; collectible figures based on the Eidos Interactive hit video game series "Tomb Raider," and action figures and a diorama collection based on characters from the Acclaim Entertainment video game "Turok."
Also due in the fourth quarter is a line of action figures and
accessories based on the Paramount motion picture "Star Trek: Insurrection" (see the Star Trek News Page for more info on this line.)
"Playmates Toys has become a fully diversified entertainment company, with a balanced focus on girls' toys, boys' action figure and accessory products, electronics and licensed properties," said Ron Welch, president, Playmates Toys. "The lineup that we have put together for the fourth quarter of 1998 and the first quarter of 1999 includes some of the hottest properties in the industry, each of which will have tremendous awareness generated through the release of either a motion picture or a video game."
The new line of Antz toys will include an assortment of highly detailed, collectible character figures featuring heroes and villains from the movie. Playmates is also creating a talking figure assortment which will include the lead characters from the animated film.
Each talking figure will stand 14 inches tall and speak four unique phrases from the film. Playmates expects the initial shipment of the character figure assortment to reach retail shelves to coincide with the Oct. 2 release date of the DreamWorks film.
"Tomb Raider" heroine Lara Croft has become an interactive entertainment icon. Playmates will give this cyber celebrity a third dimension with assortments of collectible 9-inch figures; the first such figure will see Lara posed for action as she appears in Eidos' hit video game "Tomb Raider." The retail introduction of the line will be timed to coincide with the announced fourth-quarter release of the "Tomb Raider 3" video game.
The October release of Playmates' "Turok" action figure line occurs
simultaneously with Acclaim's release of its second Nintendo 64 video game,
"Turok: Seeds of Evil." The line includes a diorama, followed by fully
articulated, highly detailed, five-inch figures of lead characters from the
"Turok" video games, including Joshua Fireseed, Tal'Set, Campaigner, Primagen
and Adon.
Looks like an interesting Fourth Quarter at Playmates.
Check in with your local comic retailer for information on ordering some more cool stuff from Previews. In recent months, Previews has really come on stronger than ever to provide toy collectors with awesome exclusives. These items are no exception.
First up is the 12-inch animated style Superman figure. This figure comes with a newly sculpted head that captures the animated look of the Man of Steel as he appears on the weekly Superman: The Animated Series. It features a real cloth outfit and cape and comes in collector's packaging (click the link below for a better look).
And next up is the much anticipated MAD Magazine figures from the creative minds of the people at DC. The Black and White Spy are being currently offered and will be Previews Exclusives for five months. Each figure is approximately 6 inches tall and is extremely well articulated (Eleven points of articulation including hat, neck, waist, shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees).
They also come loaded with lots of goodies such as a bomb, mallet, club, briefcase, magnifying glass, binoculars and a decorator stand. The figure's arm is spring-loaded so you can hurl those bombs at the enemy spy!
Also look for MAD Magazine's icon, Alfred E. Neuman. The classic character loved by millions has finally been realized as an action figure. Look for this extremely detailed figure to be offered soon as well.
Both of these items are being solicited in the upcoming issue of Previews so get to your local comic store and find out how to order. And be sure to visit Previews on the web at http://www.diamondcomics.com.
With interest in classic comic characters at an all time high, Kenner is set to make fans extremely happy with its release of two classic versions of the Dark Knight. Both done in the style of creator Bob Kane, there will be two versions of Batman: one based on early works and one based on a later version of this now iconic character.
Each figure will come on a collector's display stand that features the classic Batman logo and a replica of a golden age Batman comic book cover. A replica of Bob Kane's signature is also part of the stand.
There are no gizmos or odd accessories here. It's just full-tilt, classic Batman. These figures will be available this fall and should be a big hit with collectors.
Your eyes are not deceiving you. Here is your first look at the Green Goliath himself, the Incredible Hulk. This figure is part of the forthcoming Avengers boxed set from Toy Biz. We were fortunate enough to obtain the two-up prototype and we thought we'd share the experience with you.
The Hulk figure was sculpted by Jesse Nolan, a sculptor who has done work for Toy Biz for a number of years. Jesse's use of realistic anatomy and easy-going style make him perfectly suited to the task of bringing this classically designed figure to fruition.
We spoke with Jesse's assistant Gregg Keefer. He let us in on the experience of sculpting everyone's favorite Emerald Avenger. Interestingly enough, the original design did not have articulated ankles. However, after seeing the preliminary piece, this extra bit of articulation was added.
"This is kind of reverse engineering since you usually map out the armature first. It worked out fine though and as always more articulation is better! With articulation at the neck, balljointed shoulders, wrists, waist, thighs, knees and ankles this guy is more articulated than some Spider-Man figures! " said Keefer.
Keefer also added that the sheer size of the figure added to the challenge. It took nearly three times as much material to make this figure as it did to produce Ant Man, the other figure from this set sculpted by Jesse Nolan. Let me tell you, this is one hefty figure!
This is going to be one impressive boxed set. To see the complete set, you'll have to wait for an upcoming magazine cover; an appropriate coming out party for what is sure to be next year's most talked about set of figures.
To see more of the Hulk, check out the link below:
The Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Balancing DC Figures are beginning to arrive to those who ordered them earlier this year. These figures are much larger than was originally expected by many fans. Each figure is done is the animated style and features a detailed base. Figures available are Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.
You can still obtain these figures by using the order form found on specially marked boxes (the logo you see displayed here is on the front of the box). Do not confuse these with the Kraft DC Superheroes Macaroni & Cheese Dinner which features animated style DC characters on the boxes. These boxes do not contain the order form.
Many fans are having difficulty locating the boxes with the order form. If you are lucky enough to track down a box, you'd better buy a few extras because you'll need six proofs of purchase and a buck to get each figure. But you can also order figures for $2.50 each in case you don't want to scarf down all that Mac and Cheese.
The offer is good through 3/31/99 or while supplies last. Below are pictures of the actual Batman and Superman figures.
As the sales for the first series of Xena figure continue to be very good, more of the second series has been revealed. Or maybe that should be covered up. You see, each character in the second series has some element of disguise. Autolycus has his hooded cloak, Velasca has her war mask, and Xena has a veil to complete her harem disguise.
These figures also come with large accessories. Though these might end up in a drawer somewhere, they do look interesting and should add to the play value as you give Xena the old spin torture.
Look for these figures late this year. For a good look at all the figures, masks and accessories, click the link below.
Flatt World Figures has announced its first license: Bela Lugosi as Dracula! Fans of Charlee Flatt's custom works will be thrilled that this new company has gotten underway in such classic style.
In conjunction with Comedy III Entertainment, Inc. (a company founded by The Three Stooges), Flatt World Figures will undertake Lugosi's most famous character, "Dracula." Lugosi's portrayal of the stately vampire on the Broadway stage, and thereafter in the 1931 film, created an enduring classic which has been thrilling generations of monster and horror fans ever since.
Flatt World Figures, Inc. creates poseable character figures in the award winning style of artist and cofounder Charlee E. Flatt. Using an advanced body style with superior articulation, Flatt World's high quality figures average eight inches in height, and feature highly detailed sculpting and cloth costuming. Manufacturing will begin immediately, in order to meet plans for finished product to ship by December. Flatt World's figure of "Bela Lugosi as Dracula," will feature an accurate and precise costume, complete with satin lined cape, and will come packaged in a scale version of Dracula's coffin.
Further information is available on the Flatt World web site, at
http://www.flattworld.com. A prototype figure will be exhibited at the Flatt World Figures booth at Comic-Con International, in San Diego, from August 13th to 16th, 1998. Pre-orders and product reservations will be accepted at that time.
Flatt World Figures is pursuing a number of extremely exciting properties, in a format which is sure to thrill fans of vintage and newer toys alike. Additional announcements should happen very soon and we'll bring them to you right here with prototype photos as available.
In addition, look for Charlee Flatt himself to make an appearance in the Toy Buzz Live on August 4th at 9:00pm ET. Will bring you all the juicy details very soon.
The latest issues of Tomart's Action Figure Digest and Beckett's Hot Toys are on the shelves right now. Between these two offerings, there is probably something for everyone's tastes.
The highlight of the new Tomart's is obviously the extensive cover story on Big Jim. Contributors Kip North and Doug Lyons take the reader on a step by step journey through the history of Mattel's Big Jim. From the rubbery skin to the muscle band to Dr. Steel's conversion from villain to member of the Pack; it's all here. But there is more on the way. Look for the second half of the article in a future issue. Well worth the cover price for this article alone.
There is also a look at Ideal's Super Queens along with a look at some of the new figures hitting the shelves real soon.
Beckett's Hot Toys features a Beanie Baby cover and lot's of Beanie coverage inside. other content includes an article on the world's biggest Simpsons fan, a look at Green Hornet collectibles, some Barbie coverage, and the new Godzilla vs. the Old Godzilla.
There is also a look at G.I. Joe and Pez collectibles. There is even a contest to win some cool Joe stuff so check it out if that's your bag.
In the review section, we'd kind of have to take issue with rating any new Godzilla item as more collectible than the new animated Batmobile, but only time will tell what will happen.
Both issues are available right now so check your local comic or magazine dealer.
Hot on the heels of the wide release of the first series of Xena figures, Toy Biz has shown it's follow-up assortment. Included here are Bruce Campbell's Autolycus (this is the correct spelling, though you'll see every permutation under the sun on this name), Velasca, and Xena in her Harem outfit.
Check back soon for more detailed photos of this line. Xena fans are sure to love this stuff.
There is an idea kicking around the hallowed halls of Toy Biz and they'd like to get your input. They have been thinking about the idea of doing trading cards featuring action figures. These cards could take a couple of forms. The primary idea is to show a picture of the figure on the front of the card and then have some trivia and stats about the figure on the back. Examples of the information that could be included on the back of such cards could include who sculpted the figure, the date and line under which the figure was released, and any notable variations.
There are other ideas floating around for additional card types. One such idea is to use "action scenes" (such as the one shown at left), sort of like the ultimate virtual diorama display. Another idea is to have cards that show the original "three-view" design drawings on a card.
These cards could be sold separately and/or included with Toy Biz figures. There is also the possibility of making sets available in future special offerings (perhaps with a binder or other special promotion).
These are all just in the idea stage right now and Toy Biz would like your feedback on the idea before they pursue this with a trading card company. We have made it very easy for you to voice your opinion. Just fill out the brief form below. We're asking for your e-mail address just to avoid mulitple voting. We're also asking for your age just to give a frame of reference of the age range of respondents. Neither your e-mail address nor your age will be disclosed in any identifying manner. You will not be added to any e-mail list.
So here's the question:
Would you be interested in trading cards featuring action figures?
We're pleased to bring you this first look at several of the upcoming Star Wars figures plus another view of the next wave of Buddies figures we first showed you in our Toy Fair coverage.
The next wave of new Star Wars figures includes a nice mix of an alien, a droid, and main character and yet another automaton for your to build your legion of faceless Imperial drones. The figures are Pote Snitkin, the Death Star Droid, Princess Leia in Hoth Gear, and the AT AT Driver.
The next wave of Buddies includes the adorable Wampa plus a Cantina Band Member and the ever-popular Yoda.
Look for all of these items later this year. Click the link below for a look at all the Star Wars figures and Buddies.
Here's your exclusive first look at the upcoming classic Havok exclusive from ToyFare magazine. This has consistently been one of the most requested Marvel characters and though he was designed at one time for the X-Men line, he never made the final cut (though his face did actually appear on one series of the Toy Biz X-Men figure cards).
The issue offering this figure will be available in October. Look for a great picture of the preceding ToyFare exclusive, Spock in Environmental Suit, on the Star Trek News Page.
You've been hearing rumors but here is the real deal. The first assortments of the new WCW/NWO figures have been officially announced by Toy Biz. These figures will be released in two assortments, both arriving at basically the same time. Included in the line-up are:
Toy Biz says that there will probably be 12" figures but there aren't any definitive plans yet. There is also the possibility of two-packs or other multi-packs, but no plans have been made at this time. So if you've read any line-ups that contain other wrestlers than those listed above, you can just chalk it up to some enthusiastic wrestling fan hoping that their wish list comes true.
These figures will all come with an action feature but those details are not being disclosed at this time. Look for these to hit in late 1998 and early 1999.
John Byrne, creator of Canada's greatest group of super heroes will lend his artistic flair to the Alpha Flight figures from Toy Biz. According to plans, Byrne is doing a set of individualized collector trading cards to be included with each figure.
There are also plans to have Byrne do the package artwork as has been done recently with Bill Sienkiewicz. This inclusion of comic creators is a welcome addition to toy packaging. It also gives toy fans something to get signed at comic conventions.
The Alpha Flight line will include an Aurora/Northstar two-pack, Sasquatch, and Snowbird with a Puck sidekick. Look for these around Christmas time.