Action figures

= Action Figures =

Action figures are a type of poseable character toy figurine made mostly of plastic and often based on characters from a film, comic book, video game, or television program. These figures are usually marketed towards boys and adult collectors.

History

The concept of action figures was first introduced in the 1960s. The term "action figure" was coined by Hasbro in 1964 to market their G.I. Joe figure to boys who might otherwise be reluctant to play with a "doll." G.I. Joe was a revolutionary product, as it was the first toy to feature a fully articulated body, allowing for a wide range of motion and posing.

1970s and 1980s

The 1970s and 1980s saw a boom in the popularity of action figures, largely due to the success of the Star Wars franchise. Kenner Products, a toy company, secured the rights to produce Star Wars action figures and released a line of 3.75-inch figures that became immensely popular. This scale became a standard for many action figures that followed.

During this period, other popular action figure lines included Masters of the Universe, Transformers, and G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. These figures often came with accessories and vehicles, enhancing their play value.

1990s to Present

In the 1990s, action figures began to be marketed more towards collectors, with companies like McFarlane Toys producing highly detailed figures based on comic book characters and other media. The trend of creating figures for adult collectors has continued into the present, with companies like NECA, Hot Toys, and Sideshow Collectibles producing high-end figures with intricate details and accessories.

Types of Action Figures

Action figures can be categorized based on their size, articulation, and intended audience.

By Size

• 3.75-inch figures: Popularized by Star Wars, this size is common for figures that come with vehicles and playsets.
• 6-inch figures: A popular size for collector-oriented lines, offering a balance between detail and playability.
• 12-inch figures: Often referred to as "dolls," these figures are highly detailed and often come with fabric clothing and numerous accessories.

By Articulation

• Basic articulation: Includes movement at the shoulders and hips, allowing for simple poses.
• Super articulation: Includes multiple points of articulation, such as elbows, knees, wrists, and ankles, allowing for dynamic posing.

By Audience

• Children's figures: Designed for play, often with fewer points of articulation and more durable construction.
• Collector's figures: Designed for display, often with more detail and articulation, and sometimes limited edition.

Cultural Impact

Action figures have had a significant impact on popular culture. They have become a staple of childhood play and a major component of the toy industry. For collectors, action figures are a way to connect with their favorite media franchises and characters.

The popularity of action figures has also led to the creation of conventions and fan gatherings, such as Comic-Con, where enthusiasts can buy, sell, and trade figures, as well as meet creators and actors associated with their favorite franchises.

Conclusion

Action figures continue to be a beloved form of entertainment and a significant part of the toy industry. With advancements in technology and manufacturing, the quality and detail of action figures have improved, making them appealing to both children and adult collectors alike. As long as there are popular media franchises, there will likely be action figures to accompany them, capturing the imaginations of fans around the world.