We still connect action figures with the 70s, right? Today, they are popular once again, due to the massive retro trend. But which collectible figures are hyped in 2023? Let us find out together!
Action figures of superheroes have already reached cult status. Even though they were produced as toys, adults these days are just as eager to collect figures as children. What’s the story behind that?
Their origin lies in Germany, where the “Lilli-Doll” was created in 1953, based on a comic from the BILD newspaper. This gave the inspiration for the Barbie Doll, which celebrated a huge success in the US. Only in the 60s the idea arose to sell dolls of that sort for boys as well. In the beginning, several versions of US soldiers were created as the first so-called action figures. With increasing popularity there were more ideas, but the first superhero figures were only brought to the market at the beginning of the 70s. Today, those action figures by the company Mego Corp. are regarded as real collectors items. In the 90s it became clear that especially adults were collecting the figures from their childhood. The marketing then started to promote products not only to children. And with time, action figures were developed to be collectibles rather than toys.
So now let’s have a look at what is trending on the entertainment market nowadays. Starting with…
1. Funko Pop!
The small, cute figures called Funko Pop! have been popular for quite a while by now. Big head, small body - that’s the principle of the Japanese Chibi-Style. This year, the company Funko is celebrating their 25th anniversary and is going on tour in the US! Since 2010 fans of movies and series are eagerly expanding their collections. The rare Chase Editions are especially sought-after. In general, Funko Pops never cease to amaze: They are small and practicable with 9cm of size, fit on every shelf and aren’t too pricey to collect. Novelties are released constantly - just recently a new figure of The Flash from the DC universe was announced. They always go with the latest topics, so no one has to miss figures of new movies or series. Older classics by Disney or Marvel will always remain as well, since they really can’t be left out of a true collection. Funko-fans like to share their collections as well, showing rows and rows of shelves full of figures, often still in their original packaging. What’s unopened can be of great value some day!
2. Nendoroids
Nendoroids provide us with a huge portion of adorableness, once again thanks to the Chibi-Style. Especially the anime figures of the brand really come to life and look at us with cute, big eyes. Nendos are about as small as Funko Pops, but different in appearance. What makes them so special is firstly the innovative printing technique, which allows a unique colour gradient in their hair. In addition, people have an amazing amount of creative freedom with Nendoroids. Besides multiple poses and facial expressions, you can add accessories, clothes and even background sets to your figures!
They are primarily popular with anime fans, since the figures are strongly associated with this ever growing genre. Traditional anime figures are another big current trend - countless rows are displayed at conventions and fans proudly post their collections on social media. But of course there are Nendos of cartoon series, games and movies as well. And there’s always more to come, so nobody has to be worried about boredom.
Tip: With the Nendoroid Doll you can even design your very own figure. They’ve got movable joints, you can paint their faces yourself and put together the entire outfit. The selection is incredible. Have fun!
3. Premium Statues
You repeatedly see them displayed in cases at entertainment shops or in social media adverts and you are impressed every single time. Statues are immensely popular because of their extreme detail and quality. For collectors they are a must-have. Since entertainment merch is really in fashion, it also affects these giants of figures. Even though they cost much more than a smaller figure, loyal fans still like to invest into a high quality figure that won’t be surpassed anytime soon. Who wouldn’t want to spice up their home office with a premium item like that? There are constant novelties of new series and games, but they are produced in smaller amounts then smaller figures. So you better not wait for too long if you spot a popular item!
Shop Collectibles At Impericon
Are you already thinking about where to place all of your future figures? Then go ahead and take a look at our wide range of Collectibles. Of course you can find all the figures named above in our online shop, just like loads of cute plushies. And did you know that several band members exist as figures as well? From the Beatles up to Papa Emeritus from Ghost you can discover your favourites with us. Have fun collecting!
