Action Figure Review: She-Hulk from Marvel Legends Retro Collection: Fantastic Four by Hasbro

 

   Gosh, I've been a way for a couple of days, haven't I? I've been working on reviews for next month's 31 Days of Toy Terror, sure, but your old pal Barbecue has also been under the weather for a couple days and I'm just now finally feeling well enough to sit up and work on a review. How about we take a look at a fairly recent release from Hasbro's Fantastic Four themed Marvel Legends Retro Collection? Yes, it's She-Hulk clad in her Fantastic Four outfit. This is a pretty smart release on Hasbro's part for three reasons: 1. She-Hulk is popular and the majority of her action figures have sold quickly; 2. This is nice brand synergy with the recent release of the Fantastic Four movie as the character is connected to the team; and 3. She-Hulk joined the Fantastic Four at the end of Secret Wars, so this figure can kind of go along with the Secret Wars Retro Collection releases from earlier this year. I actually skipped the Iron Man Retro Collection version of She-Hulk (and now I wish I hadn't) but I do believe this figure is a repaint of that release with a new portrait, new accessories, and more hands. Ready to see if Jennifer Walters' latest release is worth laying down your hard earned green for? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Footloose from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   After reviewing four Cobra agents in a row (and M. Bison, who did show up as a villain in the vintage G.I. Joe line) it's time for a hero. A Real American Hero. Let's take a look at Footloose from the G.I. Joe: Classified Series. Part of the 1985 series of vintage G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero figures, Footloose is currently the second to last 1985 single carded character we need to finish that year in the Classified Series (we just need Airtight now). An infantry trooper, Footloose had a rather basic specialty compared to other Joes. I wonder what led to him being placed on the Joe team, anyway? Footloose had an interesting file card that portrays him as an Eagle Scout and valedictorian who drops out of college, moves to California, and "became quite weird for about three years." Eventually he reaches a point where he questions the meaning of his existence (or lack thereof) and joins the army. Interestingly, Larry Hama originally suggested that figure should have just been an update of Grunt rather than a new character, but Hasbro apparently disagree and we have a somewhat far out, though presumably competent soldier who once told a kid playing football "Nice catch blanco nino, but too bad your ass got saaaacked." And then he tackled the kid after he was down. Seriously, besides the figure and file card, this is the thing I remember most clearly about Footloose. Avoid a similar fate as that kid by joining me after the break...

Action Figure Review: M. Bison (Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive) from Ultra Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers by Jada Toys

 

   A week or two ago I reviewed the Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive Dhalsim that was one of the two Jada Toys SDCC exclusives for the Ultra Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers line and now I'm reviewing the other exclusive: The Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive M. Bison. This is the third version of Bison Jada has released in this line, after the original release and the BBTS exclusive Player 2 M. Bison, and they've all had different colored outfits. This new variant comes with a lot of new extras though, including new portraits for both himself and the original Bison figure, the Psycho Crusher effects, and the blue fiery figure representing when other World Warriors get hit by Bison's Psycho attacks. There's a lot of new stuff here and this is definitely a fully loaded set! Ready to check out another version of the big boss of Shadaloo? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Cobra Viper (Retro) from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   I'm on a bit of a Cobra spree right now, aren't I? Today I'm checking out a retro take on one of the Cobra troops who has seen the most use and reuse in Hasbro's G.I. Joe: Classified Series: The Cobra Viper. The Cobra Viper first came out in the Classified Series in early 2021 in the Target exclusive Cobra Island subset. That was (and still is) an excellent figure and it's been the basis for a handful of variants over the past five years: The Cobra Viper Officer and Vipers set, the Python Patrol Cobra Viper, and the Crimson Viper. Now we have a Cobra Viper from the nostalgia infused Retro Series line and while you might initially just think this guy is a brighter repaint, it turns out he is almost completely different from the other Vipers. The 1986 Viper was one of my favorite figures as a kid and has always been a top G.I. Joe figure for me. While I usually prefer the designs of the modern, updated Classified Series to Retro releases, the Cobra Viper doesn't really feel much less modern than the Cobra Island Viper. Just different with more accessories. Yes, Hasbro could have just recolored the earlier figure, but they really increased the value of the figure this time as this guy has lots of nice extra including two rifles, six swappable hands, and a display stand. Let's check out a new (old) take on the Cobra Viper after the break...

Action Figure Review: Wild Weasel from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   Wild Weasel Incoming! 

   Included with the base package of the Haslab Rattler, Wild Weasel is definitely a figure that I'm guessing most collectors wanted in their collection. His presence actually completes the 1984 Cobra lineup in the Classified Series, which is a pretty impressive feat! The vintage Wild Weasel also came with the Rattler, making him a popular figure, but the first thing I always think about when I think of Wild Weasel is his appearance in G.I. Joe #34 when he went against Ace in a dogfight. It's a good issue and a cool story that shows Wild Weasel as a highly competent enemy worth of some respect. This is the first version of Wild Weasel to come with a removable helmet, so we get a chance to become even a bit more attached to the character. Ready to take to the sky? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Cobra Rattler Gunner from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   It's going to be tough to beat the Rattler pilot version of the Baroness that I just reviewed, but that doesn't mean the Cobra Rattler Gunner isn't still a pretty solid figure and a great addition to the Rattler setup. As I mentioned in the Baroness review, I'm not planning to review the Rattler itself but I do intend to review all three of the figures from the Haslab campaign. The Cobra Rattler Gunner was the second stretch goal (after a set of patches) and was unlocked once the Rattler hit 14,000 backers. There have been Cobra gunners before but I don't recall any specifically for aircraft, so this guy is a new concept for the line. Ready to check out the generic troop builder figure that you won't be able to get any way except with the massive Rattler? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Baroness (Rattler Pilot) from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   I think I've mentioned in another post or two, but I did pick up the Haslab Cobra Rattler. I didn't actually fund it through Hasbro Pulse, though. Last year I decided to hold off on the Rattler, thinking that maybe I could get a good deal when folks started getting it in hand and realized how large it actually was. I just held onto the money in one of my savings accounts. On the morning of July 4th, shortly after the Rattler started shipping, I found someone on Facebook Marketplace an hour or two away from me who was selling their Rattler for just a bit over cost. I jumped on it, took a little bit of a road (my daughter had friends over from the night before so while my wife stayed home with them I went on a G.I. Joe road trip with my parents. A G.I. Joe road trip with Mom and Dad and a little Geocaching on the side? That was a pretty memorable time and I was home in the late afternoon/ early evening for festivities with my wife and daughter. I also ended up getting my Rattler well over a month before so many others who actually ordered them through Pulse, which was kind of wild. 

   So... what does that have to do with the Baroness? Not much, really. It's just a memorable story of how I acquired last year's Haslab set. The Rattler is massive but I found an excellent, wife-approved spot to display it in the living room on top of our game shelf (I had to move a few other items to my hobby room to make space). It's so big and I'm just not going to be reviewing it at this time. The figures, though? I'm definitely reviewing them as they're some really fine G.I. Joe: Classified Series releases. While Wild Weasel is definitely a popular Cobra operative who most folks will want to complete their Cobra rosters, the Baroness is the clear winner from the set, I think. One: It's the Baroness. Two: It's hard to say if she's ever looked better as an action figure than she does here. We've had four other Baroness figures in the Classified Series so far (the first release with the C.O.I.L., the Retro Series release, the Snake Eyes movie/ Ursula Corbero figure, and the Crimson Strike Team version) and this one tops them all, I think. She's wearing some very cool aviator gear and has multiple display options. Are you in for a version of the Baroness who flies high? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Jean Grey (X-Factor) Marvel Legends Retro Collection by Hasbro

 

   Today I'm excited to check out another Jean Grey action figure from Hasbro's Marvel Legends line, this time a Retro Collection Target exclusive: Jean Grey in her X-Factor costume. Jean Grey has one of the greatest storylines in comic history, though also one of the most convoluted. So, who is the X-Factor Jean Grey? This is the original Jean Grey herself who was found by the Avengers and the Fantastic Four in a Phoenix Egg, a cocoon-like life pod, at the bottom of Jamaica Bay. Years prior, Jean was believed to have died and been resurrected by the Phoenix Force. Instead, the Phoenix Force had actually placed Jean in the Phoenix Egg life pod and takes the form of Jean Grey, even coming to believe it is Jean Grey. When the real Jean is located, she has no memories of the Phoenix or of Madeline Pryor, a clone created by Mr. Sinister. She's just classic Jean Grey. Jean joins the other original team members as part of X-Factor, a team that pretends they're mutant hunters but really are working to help identify and support mutants who have gained the attention and (often) the ire of the public. Ready to check out the latest X-Factor team member Hasbro has given us? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Dhalsim (Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive) from Ultra Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers by Jada Toys

 

   Jada Toys is still on a slow but steady pace with their Ultra Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers line and even their deluxe releases of Player 2 variants are well worth your time and cash. For SDCC 2025 Jada had two deluxe exclusive sets available: Dhalsim and M. Bison. Today I'm checking out Dhalsim since I received him in the mail first and he was actually one of the Player 2 variants I was most looking forward to. Most of the World Warrior variants simply have different colored outfits and gear, which makes sense, but Dhalsim stood out as he had different skin tones. Well, a few others had slightly different skin tones, and Blanka changed, too, Dhalsim's P2 variants really seemed different. Why is he purple? It turns out that Dhalsim might have been intended to look like his body was covered in ash, a practice among Sadhus, or Hindu holy men. The ash is called vibhuti can be made from burnt wood, cremated human remains, or even burnt cow dung. That's an interesting detail that makes Dhalsim seem a bit more grounded and less like Street Fighter 2's version of Faker (and not a fakir). Not only is this a variant of Dhalsim, but it also contains some pieces for the standard Dhalsim and a second figure: The fiery sprite used for characters hit by fire attacks (like Dhalsim's Yoga Flame). Let's check out Dhalsim (Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive) after the break...

Action Figure Review: Frag-Viper from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   More Cobra troopers incoming! 

   Thanks for those who have checked in on me since I have been absent for a couple weeks now. Nothing's wrong; just a mix of work and church duties, back to school time for my daughter, becoming obsessed with the video game Blue Prince, and spending time with our new rescue dog, Krypto. Oh, and I've been working behind the scenes on reviews for this year's 31 Days of Toy Terror. Can't forget that! 

   Anyways, how about we check out another G.I. Joe: Classified Series review. The line might have been a bit slower during the first half of 2025 but the second half seems to be absolutely loaded with new figures. I've already looked at Blowtorch and Darklon from this series/ wave so now it's time to check out the Frag-Viper. He's another 1989 offering, which is very welcome in my book. I really think 1988 to 1990 might have been the best years for the G.I. Joe: A Real American line in terms of designs, accessories, and engineering. Yeah, the characters might not be as iconic or used as often as the earlier years, but the figures were absolutely just straight fire. The Frag-Vipers were just one of the many excellent Viper specialists from 1989 and the Classified team did an incredible job of updating and expanding them. Ready to check out the new and improved Frag-Viper? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Sagat from Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers by Jada Toys

 

   I'm not sure any character pissed me off when they beat me as much as Sagat. Besides just being way taller than everyone else, the way he just crossed his arms and laughed was infuriating! One of the original "bosses" in Street Fighter II, Sagat also was the final boss of the original 1987 Street Fighter arcade game. He's long been Ryu's rival, a story element carried over into most games in the series. Known as the Emperor of Muay Tahi, Sagat is one of the world's top fighters. Sagat is a big guy (seven feet tall) so it makes sense that he's been released as a deluxe figure in Jada's Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers line. Like with Blanka, I originally preordered him through BBTS when he was listed for $30 dollars but he eventually went up to $35 due to tariffs, inflation, and such. BBTS still honored the original price, which was pretty darn classy. Ready to check out this tribute to the original Tiger King? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Darklon from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   Ready for another G.I. Joe: Classified Series review? Then how about we take a look at Darklon, another member of Destro's Iron Grenadiers. Darklong was released in 1989 in a vehicle and driver set (he was packaged with the Evader), but Hasbro has released him solo. I don't think the Evader is that popular of a vintage vehicle. Darklon usually isn't brought up in a list of anyone's favorites, either, but Hasbro's Joe team has definitely turned Darklon into a figure that you will not want to miss. The 1988 through 1990 years of the Joe line aren't usually cited as the most popular when it comes to character selection, but I think you'd have a hard time arguing that the design and engineering of the line wasn't at it's peak during those years. Darklon, a distant cousin of Destro, is another masked member of the Iron Grenadiers, though one who has only had a few appearances over the years (though he did get a figure in the 2012 convention set and as part of the Figure Subscription Service). He's recently made his way into the Energon Universe, so maybe that's what inspired Hasbro to put him in the Classified Series. Ready to check out Darklon? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Lt. James Gordon (Batman: Year One Part 4) from DC Multiverse by McFarlane Toys

 

   It sure is nice to finally have a standard, comic inspired Jim Gordon in McFarlane's DC Multiverse line. He's such an important character in most Batman stories and McFarlane Toys did a nice job with him, even though he's mostly a repaint. Ever since the Page Punchers John Constantine came out in 2022, collectors have speculated that his body would make a good base for a James Gordon figure. Many customizers have even made it happen, but now McFarlane has delivered an official release based on Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's classic Batman: Year One storyline. Batman: Year One Part 4, to be precise. I don't know why I think it's funny that McFarlane was that precise with this one, but it is. Like, they should have went ahead and said Batman: Year One Part 4 Issue #407, page 7, panel 3. Anyways, I'm really excited to have Gordon and this really is a pretty nice figure of the younger Lt. Gordon from that series. Most Gordon figures received over the years have been based on older versions of Gordon where he's the Police Commissioner or on his time as the GCPD Batman. It's nice to get a standard younger Gordon and, as McFarlane's time with the DC license seems to be coming to an end, I'm all the more thankful for every solid Gotham city hero and villain that we get. This is a Gold Label figure exclusive to Walmart and there is a greyscale version that's a Platinum as well. Let's take a look at Lt. James Gordon after the break...

Action Figure Review: Supergirl (Woman of Tomorrow) from Dc Page Punchers by McFarlane Toys/ DC Direct

 

  *Note* This review contains minor spoilers for James Gunn's Superman!

  I'm very excited to finally have a fairly classic version of Supergirl in my McFarlane DC Multiverse/ DC Page Punchers collection. I've actually had this one for a month or more but I'm just finally getting around to reviewing her, and could the timing be any better? We're now getting more official information and even some images from next year's Supergirl film starring Milly Alcock and, if you've seen Superman, you know Kara Zor-El makes an appearance in pretty much this exact costume! Superman was an excellent film and seeing how good it was and how Milly Alcock's take on the character really sets Kara up as incredibly different from Clark, I'm even more excited. I read a lot of Supergirl, especially during the New 52 and Rebirth eras, but I haven't read the Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow series by Tom King, Bilquis Evely, and by Mat Lopes. I'm rectifying that, though, as I just ordered the TPB of the series. This version of Supergirl is from McFarlane Toys and DC Direct's Page Punchers line which includes a full size comic book. Supergirl comes with the first issue of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, and it seems to be a rather in interesting story so far. Rather you're a fan of the character or the graphic novel, odds are you'll be excited by this release. The last Page Punchers Supergirl, based on Injustice, wasn't one of McFarlane's best efforts, Supergirl from the Flash was a solid figure but not a standard version of the characer at all, and the Rebirth era Supergirl was a Target exclusive that was nearly impossible to find. I like this one quite a bit, though it does have some weird issues that drag it down. Ready to fly with Kara Zor-El, AKA Supergirl? Then look out and join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Roronoa Zoro (Romance Dawn) from S.H. Figuarts: One Piece by Bandai

 

   I don't pick up all of the S.H. Figuarts One Piece figures but I'm definitely trying to assemble the main crew of the Straw Hat Pirates. Bandai is putting these out really slowly with Luffy and Nami released a couple years back, Roronoa Zoro released this year, and the brave Captain Usopp coming out later this year or early next year. Sanji has been teased, but no release date has yet been set. I received this Romance Dawn version of Zoro a month or two ago (Romance Dawn is the name of the first story arc, but this is a pretty accurate Zoro for most of the series up until the time-skip. The fearsome pirate hunter Roronoa Zoro becomes a pirate himself while on his quest to become the world's greatest swordsman? Shocking! Let's check out Zoro, a man who loves swords, napping, and booze, after the break. By the way, follow my directions and not Zoro's' he'll just get you lost!

Action Figure Review: Blowtorch from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   Lots of new G.I. Joe: Classified Series figures have hit recently and today I'm starting to check out some figures from the newest series of single packed releases. Let's get this party started with Blowtorch, the G.I. Joe team's original flamethrower user. Blowtorch (AKA Timothy P. Hanrahan) was originally introduced in the 1984 series of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero and went on to have a few appearances in the Marvel comic, the Sunbow animated series, and the Devil's Due comics. Despite never being a main character, Blowtorch's colorful outfit has seen him revisited as a character a few times in post 1994 G.I. Joe lines. I think he's most famous for his appearance in a PSA about fire safety which led to him appearing in the Fensler Film where Blowtorch's paranoia of fire and his love for porkchop sandwiches combined to make a memorable viral video. If you count the Night Force version of Rip Cord, Blowtorch completes the single carded releases of 1984 characters in the Classified Series, so that's interesting, too. I never had Blowtorch originally (he was before my time) but I did get one when I was in High School and was back into collecting the vintage G.I. Joe line. Ready to turn up the heat with Blowtorch? Curl up with a delicious porkchop sandwich and let's check this one out after the break...

Action Figure Review: Rom from Marvel Legends Series: Rom The Spaceknight by Hasbro

 

   If you think there's nothing exciting left in Hasbro's Marvel Legends Series, let me introduce you to Rom the Spaceknight. This guy is definitely a somewhat out of leftfield release this year that is just a really unqiue and cool figure. He's also been on lots of most wanted lists for at least a decade. I will admit that I'm not terribly familiar with Rom outside of knowing about the vintage toy released by Parker Brothers in 1978/1979. Besides being a large vintage space toy, Rom also received a Marvel tie-in comic book series that ran from 1979 until 1986, outlasting the toy by several years. Rom K'atsema was once a poet on the peaceful Galador but an invasion of Dire Wraiths causes him to volunteer to be changed into a Spaceknight to defend his home world. He also ended up on Earth and met many of the Marvel Universe's greatest heroes and villains. Parker Brothers was acquired by Hasbro in 1991, so Hasbro owns Rom but hasn't done much with him over the years (he received a 1/18th G.I. Joe sized figure and a Mighty Mugg in the past decade or so). He's part of this new Marvel Legends Series now which instead of including a Build-a-Figure, now includes a miniature comic book accessory. It's a neat little trinket, but no substitute for a Build-a-Figure, especially at the standard price. These would have been better inclusions with the Retro Collection figures. Still, Rom is a must buy and seems to be the first figure gone anytime you find this series on shelves. Let's check out Rom the Spaceknight after the break...

Action Figure Review: Krypto #565 from POP! Heroes: Superman by Funko

 

   James Gunn's Superman comes out this week and I am incredibly excited. I've liked most of the film versions of Superman (the only one I didn't much care for was Superman Returns) but this one looks incredibly fun, colorful, and inspiring. It also features Krypto, so as a dog person I'm thrilled. I even bought some of the Krypto branded Milk-Bones for Zoey, our beloved kelpie/terrier mix who has helped me with some reviews in the past. Unfortunately, these past couple weeks have been a bit tough for my family as our beloved Jackabee, Crouton, passed away near the end of June. He was a very old dog (at least 17 years old!) so he had a long life with us, and who knows what he did and where he went before he was brought to our home as a stray, but we still miss him and his absence is always noticeable. He was lovable a good bit of the time, but also crotchety in his elder years, and he was always convinced that he ran the place. Still, he was a charming pup and a really cute little dog; white with black speckles. While I'm not sure what Krypto and Crouton share in personality, I definitely can't look at Krypto without thinking about my pup. I have a lot of faith in Gunn's direction and vision for Superman overall and putting Krypto in this movie is an incredibly wise choice as he's not only a draw for dog lovers, but his presence clearly signals that we're in for something fun and lively versus a darker, grimmer film like Man of Steel. I saw this Funko POP! vinyl of Krpyto a week or two ago at GameStop and decided to grab him. I liked him better than any other toy version of Krypto that seems to be out there on shelves right now. Ready to believe that a dog can fly? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Professor X (Savage Land) from Marvel Legends Retro Collection by Hasbro

 

   I'm really excited to have Professor X in his green adventuring suit. That's what I've always called it, anyway. Hasbro calls the figure Professor X (Savage Land) and refers to this outfit as his "Safari Suit." Interesting. He's part of the Marvel Legends Retro Collection and is a Target exclusive figure that I managed to find rather easily. I've seen him multiple times, too. There wasn't a retro version of this guy in the Toy Biz X-Men line or anything; they just like to use the Toy Biz inspired cards. I love the look of the carts, though since I open my figures they don't do much for me after that. This has always been a Marvel Legends figure I've wanted and it's long been on my top 10 most wanted Legends list. It's both a great look for Chuck and it helps to flesh out a Savage Land display, which I absolutely adore. Professor X mysteriously regains his ability to walk when in the Savage Land, so this guy is absolutely ready for action. Ready to check out Professor X (Savage Land)? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Heavy Duty from G.I. Joe: Classified Series by Hasbro

 

   I haven't had a new G.I. Joe: Classified Series figure to review since March, so I'm really excited that I have quite a few figures in line for the coming month. Today I'm checking out Heavy Duty, a 1991 release who Hasbro really took a shine too. Heavy Duty became a prominent part of the early 2000s lines like G.I. Joe Vs. Cobra, Spy Troops, and Valor Vs. Venom, was one of the main team members of Sigma 6, and appeared in the 2009 live action film G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra. He was also revealed to be Roadblock's cousin in some of the animated productions like Renegades. I still have my vintage Heavy Duty and I loved him as a kid. My dad managed K-Mart stores for decades when I was a kid and I remember getting him at one of my dad's stores. I think I might have done something or helped at the store in some way (maybe a fundraising event where employees could bring their kids?) and was rewarded with a gift certificate or something similar or was given the option of picking from some toys preselected for us to pick from. I've had a number of other Heavy Duty figures over the years, especially from the Sigma 6 line, but this guy takes most everything great about the vintage figure and dials it up. Ready to check out Heavy Duty? Then join me after the break...

Statue Review: Roronoa Zoro from One Piece: Battle Record Collection by Bandai/ Banpresto/ Bandai Namco

 

  How about another One Piece review? Back in March I reviewed Nami in her outfit from the Egghead arc so today I decided to finally check out Roronoa Zoro in his cool SSG gear, too. I'm not at Egghead yet (I'm just in the early episodes of Water 7, so in the low 230s) but I absolutely love these cool outfits. I have a number of these Bandai plastic statues of the characters geared up, though some are from The Grandline Series, so they're in a more neutral standing position rather than all posed for battle like the Battle Record Collection statues. Ready to check out Roronoa Zoro, the man who wants to become the greatest swordsman in the world? Then join me after the break...

(That means that if you're reading this from the home page, just click the link to read the rest of the review. We don't want anyone getting lost! IYKYK)

Action Figure Review: Blanka from Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers by Jada Toys

 

   Ready for something pretty new? How about we check out Blanka, the battling beast from Brazil! I loved Blanka as a kid. He jut looked cool, his moves weren't too difficult to pull off, and you could spam his Electric Thunder move pretty easily. I never was all that good at Street Fighter so I definitely enjoyed characters who had moves that looked cool and used one button: E. Honda's Hundred Hand Slap, Chun-Li's lightning leg, and Blanka's Electric Thunder. The movie took some liberties with Blanka (well, everything, really) but at least they let him be green with orange hair. Oddly enough, though, the commercials for various Street Fighter II toys featured better looking Blankas. Blanka released alongside Sagat (who I also have, review coming soon) as one of the first two deluxe Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers figure. And they're definitely deluxe feeling, being noticeably larger than the other figures! I picked mine up from BBTS where I had a preorder dating back to when they were originally listed for $30. They changed to $35 at some point to do tariffs and such, but BBTS honored the preorder price for those who jumped in early. Nice! Let's check out Blanka, the most electrifying man in street fighting, after the break...

Action Figure Review: Adam Strange (Strange Adventures) from DC Multiverse by McFarlane Toys

 

   I haven't read Tom King's 2021 Strange Adventures book that this figure is based on, but that's not a huge deal: This is legitimately just a pretty good classic take on Adam Strange. Sure, there might be a couple minor differences between this costume and Adam Strange's classic look, but I think they're pretty minimal. I really do love the unusual DC characters that seem to exist outside of the heroes and allies of the mainstream Justice League members and I think McFarlane Toys really has done a pretty incredible job of adding characters like to the DC Multiverse line. I'm also just a fan of the retro space aesthetic, so I'd dig this guy just on his own. Put him with your NECA Defenders of the Earth/ Flash Gordon figures or have him hang out with the Four Horsemen's Cosmic Legions. He's just an all around excellent space man! Adam Strange is one of the McFarlane Collector Edition figures, so he's a bit more expensive but comes with more extras than your average DC Multiverse figure. Let's check out Adam Strange after the break...

Toy Review: Anakin Skywalker's Jedi Interceptor (Armada Edition) from Star Wars: Micro Galaxy Squadron by Jazwares

 

   

   Jazwares seems to put out new models quite frequently, but they also tend to release quite a few repaints/ retools and rereleases. In 2024 they began releasing most straight repacks of popular vehicles with the designation "Armada Edition" on the package and an "A" at the end of the numerical designation. Now, if you see Armada Editions in stores, you'll know what they are. Anakin Skywalker's Jedi Interceptor is a Light Armor Class release and originally came out in 2023, though it's just received an Armada Edition release this year as part of series 8. This is Anakin's yellow Eta-2 Actis-class light interceptor and the one that he flew at the beginning of Revenge of the Sith during the Battle of Coruscant. That's where it was destroyed, too. Ready to check out another cool mini ship for your fleet? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Fei Long (Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive) from Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers by Jada Toys

 

   Oddly enough, the only figure from series 1 of Jada Toys' Ultra Street Fighter II: The New Challengers line I reviewed was Chun-Li. I must have gotten overwhelmed with new releases or something, so I never had the chance to review Ryu, the deluxe Evil Ryu, and Fei Long. That means that my review of the recently released Fei Long (Deluxe Player 2 Exclusive) should be a bit more exciting. This guy was a WonderCon exclusive who was also available on Jada Toys' website. Since Walmart and GameStop have started carrying this line, it's become a lot easier to find the older figures, particularly Fei Long and Chun-Li. The standard Fei Long is wearing his black pants while this Player 2 version is sporting purple. I hate to say it, but Fei Long's palette swap just isn't as exciting as most other palette swaps. I kind of wish Jada had given him the Bruce Lee inspired Tang suit that Fei Long sometimes wears in some artwork and in the pre and post-fight images. Still, there are a few cool extras here and the figure is better than the original release. Ready to check out Fei Long? Then join me after the break...

Toy Review: Tydirium Shuttle from Star Wars: Micro Galaxy Squadron by Jazwares

 

   My review of the Star Wars: Micro Galaxy Squadron Slave I/ Boba Fett's Starship seems to be quite popular so I've got another one line dup for you: The Tydirium shuttle. Tydirium is the Lambda-class T-4A shuttle (usually just referred to as an Imperial Shuttle) that Han Solo's team of Rebels used to land on Endor in order to knock out the shield generator for the second Death Star. It's a very cool looking ship and definitely a fan favorite. Jazwares released a previous version of an Imperial Shuttle in 2023 that is Palpatine's (the Emperor cruises around in one of these bad boys, too) and comes with some Imperial Forces as well as a throne in the back for Sheev to sit in. This one is specifically the stolen Rebel version, though, and comes with part of the Rebel Strike force. I've never owned any Kenner or Hasbro versions of this vehicle though I do still have a few Micro Machines versions of it along with the Action Fleet Imperial Shuttle from the Series Alpha line. This one is much larger and more accurate, though. Ready to check out the Tydirium Shuttle? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Shanks (Ver. 1.5) from One Piece Variable Action Heroes by Megahouse

 

   Ready for another One Piece review from Megahouse's Variable Action Heroes series? Then get ready for Red-Haired Shanks version 1.5. Yes, Megahouse (now a subsidiary of Bandai Namco) has been releasing and re-releasing more One Piece figures in this line, probably in part due to how the live action One Piece show on Netflix has brought in lots of new fans or renewed some interest in the series for previous fans. I've had Shanks on my "to be reviewed" shelf since early April but I'm finally getting to him after all this time! I really like the character, though from where I'm at in the show (just starting the Water 7 arc) I haven't seen the current time Shanks much; mostly just the flashbacks from Luffy's childhood. S.H. Figuarts has just recently put out a version of Shanks from Luffy's childhood, complete with a young Luffy included. I've seen it once, but I passed on it since I had just purchased this Shanks. Ready to check out Shanks (ver. 1.5)? Then join me after the break...

Toy Review: Boba Fett's Starship (EP 5) from Star Wars: Micro Galaxy Squadron by Jazwares

 

   It's been a few years since I last picked up and reviewed one of Jazwares' Star Wars: Micro Galaxy Squadron ships but I've really been admiring them lately and have got back into them. As a fan of the old school Galoob Micro Machines and Action Fleet Star Wars lines, these really scratch an itch for me. I also have this real infatuation with the idea of living inside of a spaceship. Like, I'm just oddly intrigued and comforted by the idea of a vehicle that's also like a little apartment, and looking at the Micro Galaxy Squadron vehicles that open up kind of channels that feeling. Weird, right? Anyways, today I'm checking out what I believe is the third release of Boba Fett's Slave I in this line (there was an earlier release based on the ship from The Book of Boba Fett and a release based on Episode II), which is based on the Episode V: The Empire Strikes version of the ship. Yeah, this one definitely stuck out to me. Now, like most stuff featuring Slave I these days, Disney and Lucasfilm are having licensees call it "Boba Fett's Starship" instead of Slave I, but we all know the ship's name. Ready to check out Boba Fett's Starship (EP 5)/ Slave I? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Monkey D. Luffy (Ver. 1.5) from One Piece Variable Action Heroes by Megahouse

Come aboard and bring along

All your hopes and dreams!

Together we will find everything

That we're looking for!

One Piece!

  Yup! It's time for another One Piece review and this time I'm checking out a fairly new figure from Megahouse's One Piece Variable Action Heroes line: Monkey D. Luffy (Ver. 1.5). Bandai/ Bandai Namco technically owns Megahouse now, but this line is much larger Bandai's other lines, so they are noticeably different in scale and style. With the renewed interest in One Piece and lots of new fans coming aboard, there's no shortage of One Piece collectibles available currently. I ordered this Luffy (and a couple others) from HobbyLink Japan back in March and have had him sitting here for well over a month now. I actually had this guy in hand before buying the S.H. Figuarts version of Luffy in this same outfit, but I think there will be room in my collection for a few different Luffys. Ready to check out Luffy in his post time skip outfit? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Michael Myers (Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers) from Halloween by NECA

 

   

   I'm back! Sorry for another slow week or so, everyone, but my wife and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary last week and we took the chance to get away for a few days. I also wanted to rewatch Halloween: the Curse of Michael Myers before reviewing this one and I got the chance to the night before last.

   I was really surprised when this Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers figure went up for preorder on Target.com during the Haulathon event this year. I was even more surprised when it shipped rather quickly. I've long hoped that NECA would start releasing Michael Myers figures from other Halloween films and this one is a nice start. NECA has covered Michael from the classic film and the Rob Zombie series years ago, and Halloween 2, and the Halloween 2018 films over the past 6 or 7 years, so it's cool to get one of the 90s films. While Michael Myers doesn't change his look up much, there are costume and mask differences and lots of new weapons and such here. Personally, I enjoy Halloween VI and really liked where it was going. I love the concept of Michael Myers as just an inexplicably evil guy with no backstory for his violence like we see in the original film and the 2018 series, sure, but I'm also intrigued by the Curse of Thorn and the roots to the darker side of Halloween/ Samhain that Halloween II hints at. The Curse of Michael Myers is a mess of a film at times, sure, but it has some great scenes and a great atmosphere, too (though the soundtrack is definitely weak compared to most other entries, in my opinion). Ready to check out a cool take on Michael Myers that I don't think we've seen in toy form before? Then join me after the break...

(Note: I've stopped referring to every NECA figure as "Ultimate Blank." It makes listing them in the archives annoying and it just seems unnecessary. I'm dropping it for my reviews.)

Action Figure Review: Creature from the Black Lagoon (Monsters of the Silver Screen) from Universal Monsters ReAction by Super7

 

   
   One of the things I really appreciate about my parents is that they've always been incredibly supportive of my hobby. They also love to drive around and go shopping in different areas, so pretty frequently I'll get a call or text from my dad about something he's found that looks new to him. Just a couple weeks ago he called me as he and my mom were at a Walmart and they found some new blind boxed Super7 Universal Monsters ReAction figures. That was a surprise to me as I hadn't heard about this set nor could I find any information about them online at the time. This is a new set of blind boxed Universal Monsters ReAction figures titled "Monsters of the Silver Screen." Why's that? Because they're in a grayscale, which is a very popular alternate color scheme for the Universal crew since, you know, the original films are mostly in black and white. My parents picked up two boxes, but guess what? Both were the Creature! I ended up giving my extra to the cousin of my daughter's best friend, a kid who is definitely at the right age to enjoy the Creature from the Black Lagoon. The other one? He's going into my collection, of course. Ready to check out the Creature, the illustrious star of the silver screen? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: She-Ra & Kowl #1800 from POP! Animation: She-Ra: Princess of Power by Funko

 

   It's an interesting and pretty exciting time to be a Masters of the Universe fan! While I've grown a bit bored with Masters of the Universe Origins, I'm still really liking Masterverse. I'm also getting pretty pumped for the upcoming movie, something that seemed like it would never actually happen. Lots of interesting stuff going on right now, really. 2025 is also the 40th Anniversary of She-Ra: Princess of Power, so Funko has released a set of characters from the classic Filmation animated series. I haven't picked any of the others up yet but I definitely grabbed She-Ra & Kowl #1800, a cool set with not just a great new She-Ra POP! vinyl but also a Kowl mini companion. Let's spend some time celebrating She-Ra and the wonderful world of Etheria after the break...

Action Figure Review: Monkey D. Luffy (Romance Dawn) Gum-Gum Option Parts Set from S.H. Figuarts: One Piece by Bandai

 

   Interested in some more One Piece stuff? I hope so because I've got a few coming up in the days and weeks ahead. In my watch through of the series I'm currently near the end of the Skypeia arc, so I'm absolutely right in the midst of Monkey D. Luffy using his abilities as a "rubber man" against Eneru. Rubber versus lightning? Very useful! Bandai has released a couple different Luffy figures in S.H Figuarts, the most recent ones being a Gear5 Luffy, Luffy from The Raid on Onigashima, and the classic Romance Dawn Luffy. I have both the Raid on Onigashima Luffy and the Romance Dawn Luffy, though I never got around to reviewing him. They're both great figures, though, but they were a bit light on accessories. Bandai does seem to have a sales tactic of selling the main character for a much lower price than the rest of the figures in the series (you can find the basic Luffy's for $35 dollars easily) while everyone else is priced a good bit higher. As I mentioned, the basic Luffys don't come with a ton of accessories, which is why Bandai has recently released this Gum-Gum Options Parts Set. It's an accessory pack with lots of goodies for the Romance Dawn Luffy: A new faceplate, a new hat, bendy arms and legs, a display stand, and a Gum-Gum Gatling Gun effect. If you're a big fan of the character and really like the Romance Dawn Luffy figure, this is a pretty fun set to add a lot of life to the figure. These just started shipping last month and some places stateside haven't shipper theirs yet, so it's pretty new. Ready to check this out? Then let's Gum-Gum Rocket our way into the review...

Action Figure Review: Nemesis (Genocide) from Marvel Legends Series: X-Men by Hasbro

 

   After reviewing all six figures needed to build this figure over the past month or so, I'm finally ready to take a look at the figure Hasbro is calling Nemesis. I've been mistakenly calling him Holocaust in my other reviews, but that's not really correct. Holocaust is a son of Apocalypse from the Age of Apocalypse timeline who Hasbro (and Toy Biz) have called Nemesis before due to considering the name Holocaust to be too specific and offensive for a toy. Hasbro did release a Build-a-Figure of Holocaust called Nemesis in 2007 as part of a Walmart exclusive series (I still have the Camo Punisher from that series), but this figure, who they're also calling Nemesis, seems to be based on Genocide. Genocide is a newer character (first appearance 2011) who is also a son of Apocalypse and Famine (Autumn Rolfson), but from Earth-616. Genocide, AKA William Rolfson, can create energy bursts that are as hot as the son, generate radioactive plasma bursts, and cook every Hot Pocket in the frozen foods aisle with a snap of his fingers. The suit he's wearing keeps his powers in check, though. There's not much cooler than a flaming skeleton in a spacesuit, so this BAF is proving to be a pretty popular commodity. Let's check out Nemesis/ Genocide after the break...

Action Figure Review: Nightcrawler (X-Force) from Marvel Legends Series: X-Men by Hasbro

 

*BAMF*

   Look who has showed up! It's Nightcrawler! Another heavy hitter in this series of figures, Nightcrawler is a beloved mutant and not only a member of Uncanny X-Force here but also another Age of Apocalypse figure, technically. Yes, this is the Age of Apocalypse version of Nightcrawler/ Kurt Darkholme who eventually showed up in the Uncanny X-Force. I'm not 100% familiar with this guy at all as I'm not real up to date on more modern X-books, but I do love mutants so I'm thrilled to assemble an X-Force team of these mutants in their cool black and grey costumes. Ready to check this guy out? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Dr. Jack Griffin (Kemp House) from Universal Monsters/ Classic Monsters by NECA

 

   It's been a bit since I've reviewed a Universal Monsters item, so I'm glad I recently found the newest figure from NECA's Universal Monsters/ Classic Monsters line: Dr. Jack Griffin in his suave pajamas and robe look from when he visits his research partner, Kemp. 1933 The Invisible Man is my second favorite film from the classic Universal horror films and I'm always excited to get another take on the Invisible Man. Despite it not being how he first appears in the film, the pajamas and robe look does seem to be the more iconic of the Invisible Man's robes, doesn't it? I'm really glad that NECA is still putting out Universal Monsters figures, though I'd still love them to go deeper into the Universal catalog. For now, though, let's enjoy this incredible figure of Dr. Jack Griffin. More after the break...

Action Figure Review: Marrow from Marvel Legends Series: X-Men by Hasbro

 

   I'm going to go ahead and throw out another Marvel Legends Series review from the most recent X-Men series: Let's check out Marrow! What's Marrow's power? In addition to enhanced healing and constitution, Marrow can grow and enhance her skeletal structure, even creating weapons out of her bones. Crazy! Marrow has been a pretty common part of the mutant side of the Marvel Universe since her first appearance in 1994, though she might be most well known as a playable character in 2000's "Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes." Hasbro looks like they're going to start releasing a lot of the Marvel characters from those games starting this year (and Jada's Ultra Street Fighter 2: The New Challengers figures are a perfect fit) and they've made sure that Marrow is absolutely based off of her appearance in that game. Marrow's never had a Marvel Legends figure before; in fact, it's been 30 years since she had an action figure in Toy Biz's X-Men: Generation X line. She's a very welcome addition to the collection! Let's check out Marrow after the break...

Action Figure Review: Gambit (Age of Apocalypse) from Marvel Legends Series: X-Men by Hasbro

 

   The most recent series of X-Men Marvel Legends Series figures has been a really interesting mix of characters from different teams and eras. You've got four A-list big guns (Wolverine, Cyclops, Gambit, and Nightcrawler) from different teams and eras (X-Treme X-Men, X-Factor, Age of Apocalypse, and X-Force), and three 90's era creations who haven't had Legends releases before (Marrow, Husk, and Fabian Cortez). It's a real potpourri! Age of Apocalypse Gambit was a really nice surprise for this series as whole the Age of Apocalypse storyline is quite well loved by many, the two series of Marvel Legends figures based on it didn't seem to sell as quickly as most mutant focused series and thus ended up easily found on clearance at GameStop, Target, and Ollie's. They look great together and I'd love to see Hasbro continue to add to them little by little. Gambit is an excellent addition and is always a hit, right? We've also rarely had Gambit figures in any outfit other than his classic trench coat wearing look. Ready to check out the AoA Gambit? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Deadshot (DC Classic) from DC Multiverse by McFarlane Toys

 

   Today I'm jumping back in to take a look at another DC Multiverse figure from McFarlane Toys: Deadshot (DC Classic) from the most recent McFarlane Collector Edition series. This is the first set of McFarlane Collector Edition figures where I've picked up all three figures released (Deadshot, Batman: Year Two, and Adam Strange) but Deadshot was the first one I found at a Target. I've actually seen all of these guys in stores multiple times now, though I did get Batman online from BBTS and Adam Strange online from GameStop. This is the first figure of Deadshot/ Floyd Lawton that we've received from McFarlane Toys in the DC Multiverse line, so that's another major Batman villain checked off the list. This isn't the first appearance version of Deadshot from 1950 (where he wore a tuxedo, top hat, and domino mask) but is the version most familiar to comic fans from Detective Comics in 1977 where he escaped from prison and came back with a vengeance. If you're looking for a classic "Super Powers"/ style guide look for Deadshot, this is it. He's much brighter than I expected (at a glance I always think he's Negative Man for some reason) but he does look accurate to most of his comic book appearances from the late 1970s, 1980s, and into the 1990s. Ready to see if Deadshot hits the mark? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Bloody Ash & Cheryl Williams from The Evil Dead by NECA

 

   I've been on a bit of a vacation, but not to a cabin the woods! I'm back now and ready to hit the ground running with some new reviews. NECA has been making action figures from the Evil Dead series since 2006 (the S-Mart Ash from Cult Classics) but it wasn't until 2022 that NECA released a version of Ash from the original 1981 film The Evil Dead. This year we're getting another release and this time it's a two pack! NECA has bundled a somewhat different blood splattered version of Ash with his sister, Cheryl. It's pretty amazing that NECA is still giving us new figures from this property and I'm quite excited to get a new figure of Cheryl. This is a great set with some fantastic new accessories, too. Ready to check out these two siblings doomed to some intense sibling rivalry? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Monkey D. Luffy (The Raid on Onigashima) from S.H. Figuarts: One Piece by Bandai

 

   I'm going through a midlife crisis, everyone. Some guys hit their early 40s and buy a sportscar or a motorcycle. Others begin pursuing a younger mistress. Me? I'm apparently now into watching anime and buying anime figures. OK, not all anime, really. Just One Piece. I've mentioned a couple times before that my wife really got into One Piece a couple years ago and since then I've certainly learned quite a bit about it. I love the characters and character designs, but my knowledge of the show was just from what she told me or from catching bits and pieces of it here and there. I finally started watching it for my self a few weeks ago and I'm really enjoying it (for those of you who keep up with it, I'm currently at the Drum Island arc of the Alabasta/ Arabasta Saga, and have officially met Tony Tony Chopper and learned his heartbreaking backstory). I purchased the S.H. Figuarts Romance Dawn Luffy a couple months ago but over this past weekend I stumbled upon the newer The Raid on Onigashima Monkey D. Luffy at my local GameStop and decided to snap him up. There's a lot of reuse here on the man dedicated to becoming King of the Pirates, but there's also plenty of differences to not make it feel too similar. Ready to check out this new version of Monkey D. Luffy? Then join me after the break...

"Gum...Gum... Mouse click!"

Action Figure Review: Prince Xizor from Star Wars: The Black Series Phase IV by Hasbro

   What is Hasbro doing differently with the Black Series in 2025 than they did in 2024? They're releasing characters I have nostalgia for, baby. So far this year I've picked up the newest versions of the classic ANH Luke and Leia and now I've ended up with a third figure: Prince Xizor! That's more figures Black Series figures than I purchased in 2024 and 2023. Steve Perry's Shadows of the Empire came out in 1996 and just felt massive. As the marketing hype said, it was like a Star Wars movie release without a movie. I was really getting into Star Wars at that type and it was pretty exciting to have new characters who were getting action figures and other merchandise. I still have both of my Kenner Prince Xizor figures (one was sold by himself and another came in a 2-pack with Darth Vader); in fact, I think I have all of my Shadows of the Empire vintage figures. I've been hoping Hasbro would finally delve into this era of Star Wars as I really want Chewbacca as Snoova, Dash Rendar, Luke in his vest, Leia in the blue outfit, Leebo, and Guri. Prince Xizor's a great start, though. I believe the last time Hasbro made a Prince Xizor was in 2008 as part of a comic pack with Princess Leia. That's been a minute, as they say. Let's check out Prince Xizor after the break...

Action Figure Review: Power Girl (Power Girl: Reborn) from DC Multiverse by McFarlane Toys

 

   While Todd McFarlane is now known for his infamous interview a few years back where he talked about the difficulty of selling female figures at mainstream retail and how little boys just don't want female figures, he sure has been filling out the DC Multiverse roster with some incredible women as of late. Today I'm checking out Power Girl, one of the most powerful women (no pun intended) in the DC Universe. I mean, c'mon; she's cousins with Superman (though from Earth-2) and a fellow Kryptonian. You know she's an A-list talent. She's also the counterpart of Supergirl from Earth-2 (she's Kara Zor-L/ Kara Zor-El, Karen Starr, or Dr. Paige Stetler). Power Girl is part of the McFarlane Collector Edition series which is where McFarlane Toys has been putting more of the collector focused characters as of late. Ready for a great classic take on Power Girl? Then join me after the break...

Action Figure Review: Ghost Operator from Action Force by Valaverse

 

   It's been a little over a month since Valaverse did a drop with a few new figures but I'm finally getting around to checking out the second figure I picked up from the drop: The Ghost Operator. Like many lines these days (and some vintage toylines; heck, reuse has always been the name of the game), Action Force definitely relies on reuse, mixing together a number of base bodies and limbs with different gear and portraits to create new portraits. I think Action Force is a line that this concept works exceedingly well for since most of the figures are fairly standard soldiers using fairly standard military gear. It's kind of like playing dress up for adult collectors who dig military and tactical equipment! The Ghost Operator definitely is not a new figure by far but it's a new combination of equipment with a new camo pattern that's pretty appealing. According to the file card (and for those of you who follow the Action Force storyline), the Ghost Operators are special forces operators with the Republic Territory Guard who make daring incursions into New Colonia to gather intelligence and eliminate key targets. They're allies with the Action Force. Of course, it's also a fairly standard soldier in darker urban camo, so this guy can be whoever you want. In terms of the build, the Ghost Operator is the same as the Crimson Shadow Infantry, just with a different rifle and no grenade pouches. If you're experiencing some déjà vu while reading this review, that's why. Ready to check this guy out? Then join me after the break...