CustomCon 20 - Summer 2008

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CustomCon 20 started today.
Check out the latest custom action figure creations at The Fwoosh. Check back each day of this five day event for new customs and be sure to read the creative recipes.


http://www.thefwoosh.com/ Read More...

DCUC Custom Showcase


Action Figure Insider is holding their first DCUC Custom Showcase event this weekend.

Click here to visit the website.

Welcome to AFI’s DCUC Custom Showcase - June 2008
Customizing action figures - the ability to take an existing action figure, and patiently shaping, altering, perfecting it with your own vision into a true work of art. For years, customizers have been sanding, painting, sculpting, boiling-and-popping, frankenstein-ing, even creating new joints and heads, all for the love of the hobby (and maybe for occasional compensation here and there). What is it about custom figures that we all love so much? The skill involved in creating these masterpieces? Or the never-before-seen characters? We can all agree they’re addicting, whether you enjoy creating them, buying them or just gazing at the endless amount of online customized figure galleries. And that appreciation for this craft is the focus of the DCUC Custom Showcase.

shazam-small-new Read More...

CustomCon 19 - Spring 2008

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CustomCon 19 started today.
Check out the latest custom action figure creations at RTM, Raving Toy Maniac. Check back each day of this five day event for new customs and be sure to read the creative recipes.

http://www.toymania.com/customcorner/cc19/index.shtml

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Action Figures

Diamond Select Toys has announced their second series of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine action figures.

This second series expands the crew of the former Cardassian space station by including the genetically-enhanced Dr. Julian Bashir, the best engineer this side of the Wormhole – Chief Miles O’Brien and the depth-perception impaired Klingon – Martok!  Also featured are the Previews Exclusive Colonel Kira Nerys in her Starfleet uniform and a limited two-pack containing Chancellor Gowron and a Season 4 style Lieutenant Commander Worf!

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DC Infinite Heroes

Mattel has revealed a new line of 3.75 inch action figures called DC Infinite Universe.

I've always said that there should be a 3.75 inch DC Universe with realistic sculpts and limited articulation similar to Star Wars figures.

DC Direct tried Pocket Superheroes, but not realistic enough for me.
DC Minimates, look cool but not a collection I would go after.

Mattel's DC Infinite Heroes finally got it right.
Pictured below are: Gotham City Police Officers, Commissioner Gordon, Black Adam, Flash: Jay Garrick, Supergirl, Bizarro, Wonder Girl, Batwoman, Batman, Catwoman, GCPD Police, The Question, Hush, Black Hand, LexCorp Goon?, Green Arrow, Black Canary, Green Lantern, GCPD Police, Power Girl, Shazam! (Captain Marvel), Zoom, Wildcat, Killer Croc, Weather Wizard, Thanagarian Guards and Hawkman.

DCInfiniteHeroes

Cool Custom Figure: Supergirl

Here is a cool custom figure make by fp_spirit.

The recipe is:
DC Superheroes Supergirl body
DC Direct Superman/Batman Series 2 Supergirl cape
DC Direct Flamebird head
painted the boots to match the cape
painted the skin to match the head


SupergirlMAKara2

DC Superhero Barbies for 2008

Mattel will be releasing some new DC Superhero Barbie figures this year.
These figures look like they use the new body type. They will be in the collectors series and priced about $35.00 each.

The current release dates are:
Batgirl - July 2008
Supergirl - August 2008
Black Canary - September 2008
Wonder Woman - October 2008


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New York Comic Con: Exclusive Mattel DC Universe Classics

At the 2008 New York Comic Con, Mattel will be offering an exclusive Mr.Freeze action figure. They will also make the Knight Shadow Batman and Black Suit Superman available again.

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Mr.Freeze

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Knight Shadow Batman

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Black Suit Superman

The DC Comics Action Figure Archive

I've been collecting DC Comics related action figures for many years. I also feature some photo archives on my website. Well, today I received my copy of The DC Comics Action Figure Archive. This is a nice reference book for DC toy fans like myself.

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Synopsis
For the legions that collect the immensely popular DC Comics action figures, we have good news: the official visual compendium of more than 1,400 characters has finally arrived. The DC Comics Action Figure Archive is the definitive reference for the serious enthusiast. Assembled by lead collector Scott Beatty and the experts at DC Comics, this sturdy hardcover features more than 600 full-color photographs and an easily navigable A-to-Z structure. Here, too, are previously impossible-to-find release dates, variants and "redecoes," as well as detailed information on action figure scales and articulation points. From Ace the Bat-Hound to Zauriel, with lots of Batman and Superman in-between, this collector's must-have guide doesn't miss a beat.

DC Direct: All Star Action Figures

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DC DIRECT - ALL STAR ACTION FIGURES
It's an all-star lineup featuring the work of two fan-favorite artists in this series! Four of DC's superstars are represented here:
Batman and Batgirl, as drawn by Jim Lee in All Star Batman and Robin the Boy Wonder, and Superman and Super Lois, as drawn by Frank Quitely in the Eisner Award-winning All Star Superman!
Advance-solicited; on sale September 3, 2008

Action Figures:

Batman 6.75" h

Superman 6.75" h

Batgirl 5.5" h

Super Lois 6.5" h
Each figure features multiple points of articulation and a base.

DC Universe Classics Info Archive

Here is a new website dedicated to the DC Universe Classics toyline.

www.dcuc.info

DC Universe Classics Info Archive

The site offers high quality photos, news bits, categorized listings, a checklist and other pertinent DCUC information. Expect more features and sections to be added soon.

Here is the link.
http://www.dcuc.info/

DC Universe Classics.com

dcuclassicscom

I came across this website earlier this week. It gives information about the new DC Universe Classics toyline.

Here is a link.
http://dcuniverseclassics.com/

Mattel gets the Master Toy License for DC Comics Characters

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Offical Press Release:

Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), on behalf of DC Comics, announced today that it has entered into a multi-year deal with leading worldwide toy manufacturer, Mattel, Inc., which names them master toy licensee for the complete DC Universe property portfolio. Under the terms of this strategic alliance, Mattel is granted unprecedented access to the complete breadth and scope of the DC Comics vault of characters, which includes more than a thousand world-famous DC Super Heroes and Super Villains, such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Joker, and The Riddler. Further, the agreement includes well loved characters such as The Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman, Shazam!, Green Arrow and Hawkman. Financial terms of the relationship were not released.

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In addition to the rights to existing DC Comics characters, animation and motion pictures, the deal gives Mattel rights to produce toys based on future DC Universe film and animation projects that are developed and produced during the term of the agreement. Mattel will support the DC Universe characters across all of its key brands including Hot Wheels, Radica, Fisher-Price, Tyco and Mattel Games.

Mattel will bring the talents of their world-class sculptors, designers and developers to create product lines that target both kids and collectors. In combination with their expertise in kids and kid-targeted marketing, product and content development, they will develop DC SUPER HEROES sections in the toy aisle designed to attract a new generation of kids into the DC Universe for the first time while fueling the flames of collectors’ and fans’ passion for these characters. With the broad scope of category rights granted, Mattel is uniquely positioned to leverage this rich portfolio across many different categories.

“Combining the power and richness of the DC Comics Universe with the unparalleled creativity and expertise of Mattel makes for an incredible alliance,” said Brad Globe, president, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “Knowing that the vast catalogue of DC Comics properties will be in the hands of the world’s most successful toy manufacturer ensures a consistency and quality in product development for years to come.”

Beyond the strong stable of notable heroes that serve as the face of the DC Universe, characters from such world renowned super powered teams as the Justice League and Teen Titans will allow Mattel to expand on their extensive, existing relationship with DC Comics to develop products that go far deeper and broader with their individual characters.

“Working closely with Mattel across a broad spectrum of our characters will increase the variety available to our fans and collectors, and help introduce the DC Universe to a new generation of toy buyers. We look forward to collaborating with their dedicated team to make toys as yet undreamed of into playful reality,” said Paul Levitz, President and Publisher of DC Comics.

During its seven-year relationship with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Mattel has created and delivered a number of successful toy lines that bring the fun, action-packed heroism and excitement of DC Comics’ characters to life, including top-of-the-line action figures and vehicles for the 2005 release of “Batman Begins,” innovative toys for “The Batman” animated series, along with a collection of heroes and villains from the popular Justice League Animated Series and the Batman and Superman family of DC Super Heroes action figure lines.

“We are thrilled to expand our long-standing partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products,” said Neil Friedman, President, Mattel Brands. “We strongly value our close-working relationship and Warner Bros. Consumer Products’ extensive portfolio of characters from the DC Comics Universe presents a fantastic opportunity for us to bring even more characters to life for kids and collectors alike.”

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

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With work continuing on the modern era of Star Trek products, we’re pleased to officially announce the first series of Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan action figures featuring the original crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise!  Based on their appearances in the classic film and just in time to celebrate its 25th Anniversary, the first assortment will include Captain James T. Kirk, the nefarious Khan and the limited Captain Terrel!

As former Captain of the Enterprise, Admiral Kirk returns to his ship to battle the forces of the relentless Khan.  Joined by Captain Spock and all the familiar faces, the crew of the Enterprise faces their most difficult challenge yet in this iconic film – making Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan one of the most successful movies in Star Trek history!

Sculpted by Art Asylum and featuring the same articulation and dedication to detail as past releases, these six-inch scale figures will be at home in any Star Trek collection.  Images and details will be announced along with the full lineup of exclusive figures as the Summer 2007 release date approaches.

New Data Exclusive From New Force Comics

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With the Data and Geordi LaForge figures hitting stores soon, we’re pleased to officially announce the limited exclusive “Chain of Command” Data action figure will be available exclusively through renowned Star Trek retailer, New Force Comics!

“We are very excited to bring this alternate version of an extremely popular character to fans,” said New Force Comics owner, Rick Whitelock.  “Data has always been a unique character with limitless potential and we think this exclusive helps demonstrate that.”

With Captain Picard kidnapped by Cardassians and Commander Riker relieved of duty, it falls to Data to serve as the Enterprise’s new first officer – complete with a new command-style uniform.  “Chain of Command” Data builds on the success of past Star Trek: The Next Generation releases and delivers a striking new version of the android as he appeared in the series’ sixth season. 

Sculpted by Art Asylum and in scale with past releases, the “Chain of Command” Data features multiple points of articulation and series-accurate accessories.  For more information, please visit www.newforcecomics.com.

KHAAAN!

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Up next in the DST Star Trek line is a new action figure two-pack based on the fan-favorite STAR TREK episode – “Space Seed”!  Featuring all-new versions of Captain James T. Kirk and Khan Noonien Singh, this upcoming release will feature the same style, articulation and scale as past original series STAR TREK releases!

Differing from past action figure versions of this sci-fi duo, Kirk is depicted in his Starfleet dress uniform while Khan sports the gold tunic worn during his ill-fated dinner with the crew.  Though victorious at first, Khan’s plans to overtake the ship were thwarted by the resilient captain.  Khan was marooned for years before finally striking back at Kirk and his crew.

“We’ve focused on the Next Generation crew recently, but we haven’t forgotten the original crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise,” said Diamond Select Toys Director Chuck Terceira.  “Kirk and Khan are the perfect nemeses - both of them equally matched except for Khan’s thirst for vengeance.”

Partnering with Diamond Select Toys on this release are the renowned sculptors and designers at Art Asylum, who remain committed to delivering the very best Trek products to fans worldwide.  Each figure will be in scale with past releases and feature multiple points of articulation as well as episode-accurate accessories.

Emma Frost - White Queen Comiquette


Click on banner ad above for more information about purchasing this figure.

Emma Frost - White Queen
Sideshow Collectibles, Marvel Comics, and Adam Hughes are proud to present this sultry addition to Marvel Comiquette line. The White Queen is cast in high-quality polystone direct from the concepts and designs of fan favorite artist Adam Hughes, well known for his buxom super-heroines. Each White Queen Comiquette is cast in high quality polysone, then hand-finished and hand-painted to exacting standards. Standing at a stunning 16" inches tall, the White Queen Comiquette is certain to enhance any collection.

Although Emma Frost is currently serving as co-headmaster of the Xavier Institute, she hasn't always fought on the right side of the mutant agenda. As one of the world's most powerful telepaths, Emma has the ability to read minds, project thoughts into the minds of others, and create powerful psionic force bolts.

Artist(s): The Sideshow Collectibles Figure Design & Development Team






Marlena Moreau Beaming Down for San Diego!

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Diamond Select Toys is pleased to announce the addition of a fifth “Mirror, Mirror” figure - available only at this summer’s San Diego Comic Con!  In addition to the previously announced Star Trek “Mirror, Mirror” action figures, a limited Marlena Moreau figure sculpted by Art Asylum will be available exclusively at the Diamond Select Toys booth!

When purchasing the “Mirror, Mirror” Uhura, McCoy, Sulu and Chekov figures from their respective retailers, con-goers will be able to have a special Star Trek card punched at each booth.  Upon completing this card and returning to the Diamond Select Toys booth during the convention, fans will receive the “Mirror, Mirror” Marlena Moreau figure at no cost, completing the “Mirror, Mirror” set!

Internet retailers New Force Comics, Action Figure Xpress and Entertainment Earth will be offering their exclusive McCoy, Sulu and Chekov figures while the Uhura figure will be sold by DST.  Quantities of the Marlena Moreau figure will be limited and subject to availability, so interested fans should complete this Star Trek challenge early to claim their free prize!





Star Trek Data, LeForge and Barclay figures.

This third series of Star Trek: The Next Generation action figures Featuring Lieutenant Commanders data and La Forge, delivers all the technical expertise a starship captain could need - including the limited Lieutenant Barclay figure!

Sculpted by Art Asylum and featuring multiple points of articulation, the core assortment will include Season 7 data, Season 7 Geordi la Forge and Season 7 Barclay - each with series-accurate accessories and a transporter pad style base! Several exclusive versions of these characters will be made available, with more information released as the Fall 2006 release date approaches.

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Captain Kirk exclusive for San Diego Comic Con

With plans for this year’s San Diego Comic Con continuing at full steam, Diamond Select Toys is excited to announce the latest exclusive item available at this summer’s show – the deluxe Star Trek Captain Kirk and Command Chair from “Where No Man Has Gone Before”!  Featuring an exclusive action figure of Captain James T. Kirk, this set is based on Star Trek’s second pilot episode and features an all-new!

Available only from DST during this summer’s San Diego Comic Con, the Captain Kirk & Command Chair set incorporates the tiniest details from this ground-breaking premiere episode.  From the uniform to the armrest buttons, this is your chance to bring home a piece from the beginning of the
Star Trek legacy!  Packaged in a deluxe window box, the Captain Kirk & Command Chair set will retail for $25.00 at the DST booth.

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Sculpted and designed by Art Asylum, the Captain Kirk Command Chair set will join two others due to be released later this year – with one featuring Captain Kirk in standard uniform and Captain Pike from the series pilot “The Cage.”  Both due out in celebration of the 40
th Anniversary of Star Trek, each figure included in these Command Chair sets features multiple points of articulation and will be in scale with the previously released Star Trek original series figures.

Nemesis Riker and Troi Coming to New Force!

The next exciting Star Trek release from Diamond Select Toys is the New Force Comics exclusive "Nemesis" Riker and Troi twopack! These star-crossing lovers are presented in their “Star Trek: Nemesis” uniforms and together will help complete the crew of the U.S.S Enterprise-E!

Sculpted by the experts at Art Asylum, this exclusive twopack also features movie-accurate accessories and amazing character likenesses. In scale with past releases, the Star Trek: The Next Generation action figure universe is swiftly expanding to include more of fans' favorite characters and looks.

Available in Spring of 2006, fans are encouraged to visit
www.newforcecomics.com to pre-order their exclusive twopack today, as quantities will be limited. Pictures of the "Nemesis" Riker and Troi action figures will be available after next month's American International Toy Fair in New York City.

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40th Anniversary of Star Trek Brings New Figures!

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With the Star Trek franchise’s 40th anniversary celebration beginning on September 8th, we at Diamond Select Toys and Art Asylum are excited to announce plans to commemorate this historic occasion with several action figures and collectibles! Beginning at this year’s San Diego Comic Con, fans will be able to buy products specifically geared toward the original Star Trek series as well as the ongoing Star Trek: The Next Generation line.

The first of several special announcements involves the completion of a line that some fans thought would never be completed. Four exclusive action figures from the classic episode “Mirror Mirror” will be made available at San Diego Comic Con! “Mirror Mirror” Uhura, McCoy, Sulu and Chekov will round out the previous releases including Kirk, Spock and Scotty figures! Each figure will be exclusive to a different retailer, with all four making their debuts in San Diego.

Images of these upcoming exclusive figures will be available after the upcoming American International Toy Fair with prototypes displayed at several conventions leading up to the Comic Con launch. In scale with the previously released “Mirror Mirror” figures and featuring the same articulation, these Art Asylum-designed figures are sure to please fans and retailers alike. Be sure to check back during our Toy Fair coverage for more Star Trek news!

New Star Trek Action Figures Announced

DIAMOND Select Toys has announced some more new Star Trek figures.

Enterprise Crew Continues to Grow!

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With the Riker and Worf figures hitting stores soon, we’re pleased to officially announce the third series of Star Trek: The Next Generation action figures will feature Data and Geordi La Forge! Based on their appearances in both the series and the feature films, Series 3 will contain three core figures and several exclusive versions of each character.

The first officially recognized artificial life form, Lieutenant Commander Data is much more than a machine. Developed by renowned scientist Dr. Noonian Sung, Data is gifted with super-human strength, durability and intelligence and even began experiencing actual emotions as part of his quest to become more human.

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Chief Engineer Geordi La Forge, one of Data’s closest friends, has served aboard the Enterprise for years despite his handicap. Born without sight, he has overcome this obstacle thanks in part to his V.I.S.O.R. and ocular implants. Originally a flight controller aboard the Enterprise, his brilliant proficiency with the ship’s systems quickly resulted in his being promoted to Chief Engineer.

You can expect the same articulation featured in the upcoming Riker, Worf, Picard and Troi figures, with incredible attention to detail and series-accurate accessories. The core assortment is scheduled to contain Season 7 Data and Season 7 La Forge along with a limited mystery figure! Images and details will be announced along with the full lineup of exclusive figures as the Fall 2006 release date approaches.

DC Direct announces new Action Figures

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JUSTICE LEAGUE (ALEX ROSS) SERIES 4: Action Figures
Features multiple points of articulation, character specific accessories and a display base. Packaged in a four-color blister
Advance-solicited; on sale September 6, 2006
SHAZAM! 7.25" H
BLACK ADAM 7.25" H
HAWKMAN 7.5" H
ZATANNA 6.75" H
SOLOMON GRUNDY 8" H

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INFINITE CRISIS SERIES 1 ACTION FIGURES
Features multiple points of articulation, character specific accessories and display base. Packaged in a four-color blister.
Advance-solicited; on sale September 20, 2006
POWER GIRL 6.25" H
ALEXANDER LUTHOR 6.5" H
EARTH-PRIME SUPERBOY 6.125" H
OMAC 7.25" H
MONGUL 9" H

Check my
DC Direct Action Figure List to see what else is coming out.