The Best Figurines of Your Favorite Characters
Whether you're a Star Wars junkie, a Nintendo stan, or a Game of Thrones loyalist (rest easy, Hodor), the desire to commemorate your favorite character in the form of a figurine is universal. It goes without saying that the environment we spend time in affects the way we feel, so, naturally, we get a kick out of surrounding ourselves with knick-knacks we enjoy and totems we feel connected to. Enter the figurine. The art of figurine collecting is popular with both kids and kids-at-heart, but with such a saturated market, it can be overwhelming to try to separate the good from the bad. We've done the hard work for you by tracking down a few of the absolute best figurines available today.
Funko Pop: The Child
The Greatest Teacher, The Child Is
Colloquially referred to as “Baby Yoda”, The Child hails from the same species as Yoda and inspires perhaps just as much mystery. But we probably don’t need to explain this to you. If the idea of situating The Child in your gaming room or at your work desk appeals to you, rest assured that Funko Pop has done a fine job with this figurine. Inexpensive, well-made, and perfectly-sized, let this tiny being – the embodiment of innocence and burgeoning wisdom – find a spot in your home.
Pros:
- Has a stable base, so it won’t fall over easily
- With a height of 3.75 inches, it’s big enough to justify the purchase and small enough to fit almost anywhere
- Hard to imagine a cuter figurine
Cons:
- The head can pop off if you handle it too roughly
Funko Pop: Iron Man Mark VII
For decades now, the Iron Man character has been a recurrent figure in the American superhero mythos. And like many mythologies, as time has gone on, its characters have become more and more refined. Such is the case with Iron Man. In the true spirit of America’s favorite powered exoskeleton, this figurine features Iron Man right in the act of combat – if you want him to be, that is. With the four included accessories, you can swap out his hands to accommodate dual laser gloves.
Pros:
- The arms and legs have moveable joints, so you can set him to stand in an action stance
- Attention to detail is exquisite, so you most likely don’t have to worry about any imperfections
Cons:
- Better for display than for actual play, so not the best option for young kids
Funko Pop: Pikachu
Pikachu, I Choose You
Whether you grew up during the golden years of Nintendo’s early days or you’re a lucky inheritor of the company’s next generation of brilliance, you almost certainly have a soft spot for Pikachu. In a way that transcends age, gender, race, and class, Pikachu is one of the most universally likable characters ever created – as well as one of the cutest. On a practical level, this figurine is not only cute, but it also boasts a great cost value, so you can buy yourself a new friend without feeling much lighter in the wallet.
Pros:
- Because it’s so inexpensive, you’ll likely have money left over to buy other figurines, too
- The cheery design adds a little vivacity to any room
- Makes for a great stocking stuffer
Cons:
- Not the greatest build quality, but for the price, it hardly matters
Funko Pop: Aang with Momo
Water, Earth, Fire, Air
Having enjoyed a surge in popularity thanks to a relaunch of the show, Avatar’s characters are enjoying their time in the spotlight. Most likely, you’re part of the large (and growing) group of fans who find Aang’s balance of brave heroism and whimsy not only charming, but also inspiring. With this figurine, you’re getting Aang and his loyal sidekick, Momo, perched atop his head. Momo doesn’t need to stay there, though. He’s actually freestanding, so he can be removed and placed wherever you like.
Pros:
- The colors are bright and vibrant
- Makes an excellent gift for a friend or your kid
Cons:
- The box that it’s shipped in is easily damaged, but this shouldn’t affect the figurine itself
Funko Pop: Night King on Dragon
The Night is Dark and Full of Terrors
Those who couldn’t get enough of HBO’s Game of Thrones series may have developed a complicated relationship with the Night King and his Ice Dragon. Often perceived as the symbol of evil in a world that has known relative peace for some time, the show peppers in subtle suggestions that perhaps there’s more to him than meets the eye. And with this figurine, that’s true – literally. Turn the lights out and witness the figurine’s glow-in-the-dark mystique.
Though the character’s appearance itself is terrifying in the television series, this figurine takes a bit of the menace out of the Night King’s face. Some may find this regrettable, but for most, the balance between lighthearted figurine-style fun and ominous darkness inherent to the character seems to work pretty well.
Pros:
- At 6 inches in height, this one is bigger than most similar figurines, making it a great showcase piece
- The amount of detailing will likely exceed your expectations
- Captures the icy color palette of the North quite well
Cons:
- A bit costlier than comparable figurines, but for those who love the show, it’s worth it
Frequently Asked Questions
How are figurines made?
Well, if you’re curious about the production process, we might as well explain a bit of history first. “Action figures” in the modern conception were first brought to market in the mid-’60s when the Hasbro Company started producing G.I. Joe toys. The Barbie doll had already been around for a few years, but they differed from action figures in that the latter was built with joints that could be bent and rotated to make the figure look like it was fighting.
Figurines like the ones we’ve included today have been around for quite some time, and their production process is quite similar to that of action figures. In fact, it’s a bit more simple, since they are usually produced without joints. Typically, a handmade prototype serves as the starting point from which a mold is created. The mold is used to produce the figurine en masse. The materials usually consist of different types of plastic, like acrylic. Once the plastic in the mold settles, the figurine is painted, often with acrylic paint.
My friends think I’m weird for collecting figurines. I think they’re weird for not collecting them. Who’s right?
You’re right … and they’re right too. Who cares? Everybody’s weird, and if you’re not weird – that’s weird. Your interests are what make your life colorful, so whether you’re into Digimon or didgeridoos, we say follow your bliss always. That’s where the magic is.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.