Action Figures: The Classic Toy Figurines
When thinking about toy figurines, one of the names that immediately comes to mind is “action figures.” This name has become synonymous with the small, poseable figures that depict characters from movies, TV shows, comic books, and more. The term “action figure” originated in the 1960s when Hasbro introduced the famous line of “G.I. Joe” figures. These figures were designed to appeal to boys by focusing on adventure and military themes. Today, action figures are enjoyed by people of all ages and have evolved to include a wide range of characters from various entertainment franchises.
Collectible Figures: For the Serious Fans
Another popular alternative name for toy figurines is “collectible figures.” This term is often used to refer to figurines that are highly detailed and designed for display rather than active play. Collectible figures are often made of higher-quality materials and feature intricate designs and paintwork. These figures are typically produced in limited quantities, making them more sought-after by collectors. Companies like Funko, Hot Toys, and NECA are well-known for their extensive lines of collectible figures, which cover a wide range of genres and characters.
Miniatures: Tiny Creations with Big Potential
“Miniatures” is another commonly used term for toy figurines, particularly within the world of tabletop gaming. Miniatures are tiny, detailed figures that represent characters, creatures, and objects in board games, role-playing games, and wargames. These figures are often used to enhance gameplay or to visually represent aspects of the game world. Miniatures come in various sizes and materials, with some requiring assembly and customization. Games Workshop’s “Warhammer” franchise is particularly well-known for its wide array of highly detailed miniatures.
Vinyl Figures: The Pop Culture Icons
Vinyl figures have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in large part to companies like Funko. These collectible figures are made of vinyl, a durable and versatile material that allows for intricate designs. Vinyl figures often feature simplified, stylized designs and are frequently associated with pop culture icons from movies, TV shows, video games, and more. The term “vinyl figures” can be used to describe both larger, more detailed collectible figures as well as smaller, blind-boxed figures that are sold in series.
Model Kits: Building Your Own World
For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, model kits offer a unique alternative to traditional toy figurines. Model kits are unconstructed, scale models that require assembly and sometimes painting. These kits allow hobbyists to build and customize their own figures, vehicles, and dioramas. Model kits come in various levels of complexity, from simple snap-together models to highly detailed kits that require advanced modeling skills. Companies like Tamiya, Revell, and Bandai are well-known for their extensive range of model kits that cover a wide variety of subjects, including anime, sci-fi, and historical themes.
