Top 10 Most Popular Action Figures of 2023

Welcome to the amazing world of action figures, where childhood dreams come to life and collectors find endless joy. Over the years, action figures have evolved, becoming a significant part of pop culture and touching the hearts of millions. Let’s dive into this fascinating realm and discover the most popular action figures of 2023, from iconic franchises to customized masterpieces.

Key Takeaways

Action figures have been a beloved staple in pop culture since G.I. Joe, with Marvel Legends offering detailed and articulated characters from the MCU.
Collecting Star Wars action figures is still going strong, featuring classic heroes like Luke Skywalker and villains like Boba Fett as well as Baby Yoda (Grogu).
Investing in action figures can be lucrative if done properly while displaying them creatively allows fans to show off their passion for these iconic toys!

The Rise of Action Figures

Long before the era of Marvel Legends and Star Wars, the action figure market was dominated by G.I. Joe, an iconic toy line that started in the 1960s with twelve-inch figures. Fast forward to the 1970s, and action figures became a massive hit, paving the way for numerous iterations and adaptations, thus securing their place in pop culture.

These mini heroes and villains granted fans the power to bring their favorite scenes from movies, TV shows, and comic books to life. Hot toys like Gundam figures, for instance, based on the famous anime series, have been a popular choice among collectors. Iconic action figure lines like Star Wars, TMNT, Marvel Legends, and Lego mini figures have captured the hearts of fans for decades.

Marvel Legends: A Collector’s Dream

A treasure trove of detailed and articulated action figures awaits Marvel universe fans in the Marvel Legends series, highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts. Originating from the ToyBiz X-Men action figure line, which introduced a new level of detail and articulation in action figures, Marvel Legends has since become a staple in the action figure community, especially with their Marvel Legends figures.

Hasbro, the company responsible for producing these beloved figures, continues to amaze fans with awesome releases of iconic characters, such as the Retro Beast Marvel Legends Action Figure, complete with a lab coat, spectacles, and beakers. With the Marvel Legends series, collectors have access to an extensive range of characters, each with unique features and accessories, making it the ultimate collector’s dream.

Avengers Assemble

Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor are the reigning champions among the most popular Avengers action figures. Here’s why they are fan favorites:

Iron Man: The tech-savvy genius with a witty personality.
Captain America: A symbol of patriotism and justice, known for his courage and unwavering sense of justice.
Thor: The powerful Asgardian god, admired for his strength, courage, and loyalty.

These characters have become beloved across various media platforms.

Adding these fan favorites to your collection not only pays tribute to the iconic Marvel characters but also allows you to recreate exciting scenes from comics, movies, and TV shows. So, assemble your Avengers collection and showcase the heroes that have captured the hearts of millions.

X-Men Unite

X-Men Unite provides an incredible selection of action figures for those enamored by the world of mutants and superheroes, featuring characters like the ferocious Wolverine and the weather-controlling Storm. One particularly cool figure is the Cable action figure, highly articulated and detailed, making it a must-have for any X-Men fan.

Another standout figure is the Magneto action figure, capturing the essence of his classic villain days with an iconic suit and helmet that brings back memories of Saturday morning cartoons. As you delve into the world of X-Men action figures, you’ll discover an array of unique characters, each with their own story and powers, making them the perfect addition to any collection.

Spider-Verse Expands

An ever-expanding realm of Spider-Man action figures, the Spider-Verse features alternate versions of the web-slinging hero and his notorious villains. One exceptional figure is the GamerVerse Spider-Man Marvel Legends Action Figure, based on the costume from the Marvel’s Spider-Man game, complete with plenty of articulation points and web-based accessories.

For those seeking something truly unique, the Variant Bring Arts Spider-Man action figure offers:

Iron Spider look from the MCU’s Avengers: Infinity War
Designed by renowned Tetsuya Nomura of Kingdom Hearts fame
Four robotic limbs
Extra hands
Stand for endless display possibilities

This figure is a sought-after piece for any Spider-Man enthusiast.

Star Wars: The Galaxy’s Most Wanted

With its vastness and captivating characters, the Star Wars universe becomes a gold mine for action figure collectors. The most sought-after figures include the faithful companion Chewbacca, the menacing Darth Vader, and the enigmatic Boba Fett. The removable helmet Darth Vader action figure, in particular, has gained popularity due to its ability to reveal the scarred, disfigured face underneath the iconic helmet.

Another fan favorite is the Boba Fett action figure, crafted for the 1980 premiere of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Unfortunately, mass production never happened due to issues with the rocket-launching mechanism, making this figure a rare and sought-after collectible. As the Star Wars franchise continues to expand, expect even more incredible action figures to join the ranks of the Galaxy’s Most Wanted.

Classic Trilogy Heroes

The original Star Wars trilogy introduced us to iconic heroes like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, who have become some of the most popular action figures in the franchise. These classic trilogy heroes have had a significant influence on the action figure industry, inspiring fans and collectors for generations.

Adding these legendary figures to your collection pays homage to the characters that shaped the Star Wars universe and allows you to relive the epic battles and adventures that have captivated fans for decades. From the noble Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker to the fearless leader Princess Leia, these classic trilogy heroes will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Star Wars fans.

The Mandalorian Phenomenon

The success of the Disney+ series, The Mandalorian, has sparked a new wave of action figures that have captivated both fans and collectors. The Mandalorian Phenomenon has brought us sought-after figures like Boba Fett, The Mandalorian busts, and the adorable life-size Grogu figure.

The undeniable popularity of Baby Yoda (Grogu) has skyrocketed, leading to a massive demand for action figures of this lovable character. As the Star Wars universe continues to expand and introduce new characters, the Mandalorian Phenomenon proves that the love for these action figures is stronger than ever.

Anime-Inspired Action Figures

A plethora of action figures has been inspired by anime and manga series, enabling fans to animate their favorite characters. Popular series such as Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and One Piece have given rise to incredible action-figure iterations that capture the essence of these beloved franchises.

The most sought-after anime-inspired action figures include:

Chengchuang Venom Carnage Action Figure
Figurine Anime
Naruto Anime Heroes Beyond Naruto Figure
Anime Heroes Jujutsu Kaisen – Megumi Fushiguro Action Figure

Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard collector, anime-inspired action figures, including cool action figure options, offer a unique way to express your passion for these captivating stories and characters.

DC Multiverse: Heroes and Villains

Fans gain access to an expansive range of action figures from the DC Comics universe through the DC Multiverse toy line. The most popular figures include:

DC Comics 12-inch Action Figure 4-Pack with Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, and Cyborg
AK Batman
Flashpoint Batman
and many more.

These highly detailed and articulated figures allow fans to recreate their favorite comic book scenes and showcase their love for iconic characters. Whether you’re a fan of the Justice League or Batman’s rogues gallery, the DC Multiverse line has something for everyone.

Batman’s Rogues Gallery

Some of the best action figures in the DC Multiverse line feature Batman’s most notorious villains, including The Joker, Harley Quinn, and Two-Face. The NECA Joker figure, for instance, offers collectors a highly detailed and articulated representation of the infamous Clown Prince of Crime.

The Shadow Tek line by Mattel gives fans an impressive Harley Quinn figure, while McFarlane Toys’ DC Multiverse offers a stunning Two-Face action figure. Collecting these iconic villains allows fans to pay tribute to the rich and diverse world of Batman’s rogues gallery, while also showcasing their love for these captivating characters.

Justice League United

The Justice League, a team of legendary DC superheroes, has inspired countless action figures that fans can’t get enough of. Some of the most sought-after Justice League action figures include the DC Comics Justice League 4-Pack Action Figures, McFarlane DC Justice League Cyborg Figure, and Justice League Unlimited (JLU) Action Figures.

Adding these popular figures to your collection not only pays tribute to the iconic Justice League characters but also allows you to:

Recreate thrilling adventures
Engage in epic battles
Unite your collection
Show off the heroes that have captivated the hearts of fans for generations.

Iconic Toy Lines Revived

A resurgence in popularity of classic action figure lines like Masters of the Universe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Power Rangers has spread nostalgic joy among fans and collectors. For instance, He-Man, with over 70 million toys sold worldwide, has been given a second life, attracting a new generation of fans.

These iconic toy lines have stood the test of time, proving that their appeal is not solely rooted in nostalgia but also in the quality and craftsmanship of the figures themselves. As the toy industry continues to revive classic action figure lines, fans can look forward to reliving their childhood memories and embarking on new adventures with their favorite characters.

Video Game-Inspired Figures

Fans can uniquely showcase their love for their favorite games through video game-inspired action figures. Popular titles like Fortnite, Overwatch, and Halo have spawned a plethora of detailed and articulated figures that capture the essence of these beloved franchises.

The most popular video game-inspired action figures include Fortnite figures with their distinctive designs, Overwatch heroes with their unique abilities, and the iconic Spartans of the Halo series. Collecting these figures allows fans to bring their favorite video game characters to life and create their own epic battles, making them a must-have for any gaming enthusiast.

Customizing and Kitbashing: The Art of Action Figure Modification

Customizing and kitbashing action figures can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor for those who seek to personalize their collection. By modifying existing figures, collectors can create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase their creativity and passion for the characters they love.

When it comes to selecting the perfect base for your custom figure, the S.H.Figuarts series offers a wide range of accessories and expressive faces for both action poses and silly ones. Additionally, Banpresto statues provide a budget-friendly option for Dragon Ball figures, giving collectors the freedom to explore their creativity without breaking the bank.

Investing in Action Figures: A Guide to Collecting

Just like any other collectible market, action figure collecting can be an investment opportunity, as some figures appreciate in value over time. When it comes to buying action figures, factors such as the condition of the figure, its rarity, and cost should be taken into account.

When selling action figures, it’s essential to follow these steps to ensure the best possible return on your investment:

Research the market value of the figure.
Take clear photos of the figure to attract potential buyers.
List the figure on a reliable marketplace.
Preserve valuable figures by storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Use acid-free storage materials to maintain their value.

By following these steps, you can maximize your profits when selling action figures.

Displaying Your Collection: Creative Ideas and Solutions

Finding creative and stylish ways to display your prized possessions is a crucial part of action figure collecting. Custom wall-mounted cases, shelves and accessories, and grouping by theme or series can make for an eye-catching display that showcases your unique collection.

For a touch of nostalgia, consider incorporating retro toys, vintage toys, or wrestling posters into your display. Alternatively, if you have action figures still in their packaging, find a way to showcase the packaging while keeping the figures protected. Ultimately, the key to an amazing action figure display is creativity and personal expression, so have fun and let your passion shine through.

Summary

In conclusion, the world of action figures offers endless possibilities for collectors, from iconic franchises like Marvel and Star Wars to anime-inspired figures and video game characters. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated collector, action figures provide a unique way to express your passion for your favorite characters and stories. So, dive into this fantastic realm, and start building your collection today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular action figure of all time?

Joe G.I. Joe is the most popular action figure of all time, having captivated children around the world for nearly five decades with its unique accessories, styles, and characters.

What is the most popular action figure company?

Hasbro is the most popular action figure company, renowned for its decades of experience in producing and distributing toys.

What toys to invest in 2023?

In 2023, collectible figurines and limited edition toys featuring characters from iconic franchises such as Marvel, DC, Star Wars, Harry Potter and more are great investments.

What action figures are the easiest to sell?

Loose GI Joe action figures are generally easier to sell in lots, while sealed Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures from the 1980s will usually fetch some money.