A Nostalgic Return to 1997 with Hasbro’s X-Men
As the Black Friday sales begin to wind down, let’s dive into the world of collectible toys with a spotlight on Hasbro’s X-Men ’97 line. Get ready for a trip back in time only this time, everything is upgraded with modern flair and an extra dose of awesomeness. These aren’t just action figures; they’re a nostalgic trip down memory lane for anyone who grew up with the X-Men: The Animated Series, now reimagined for the upcoming Disney+ series, X-Men ’97.
Meet the Mutant Lineup
Hasbro first unveiled these beauties at San Diego Comic-Con 2023. They’ve not only captured the essence of our beloved mutants but also brought them into the modern era with a style that’s both fresh and faithful to their roots.
The lineup is like a roll call of your favorite X-Men: TAS heroes. First up, we have Gambit, the suave card-slinger with an affinity for charging up more than just the atmosphere. His figure comes with all the bells and whistles, including a throwing card hand and his iconic staff.
Then there’s Magneto, the master of magnetism, whose complicated history as a mutant and holocaust survivor is as intricate as the details on his figure. And of course, the energy-absorbing, time-traveling Bishop, who brings a piece of the near future to our collection shelves.
Rogue, the Southern belle with the power to absorb others’ abilities with just a touch, and Storm, the weather-controlling Egyptian goddess, add more than just girl power to the mix. They’re symbols of strength and resilience, a reminder of how diverse and dynamic the X-Men team has always been.
Wolverine, the Canadian Canucklehead and subject of the Weapon X program brings his healing factor and adamantium claws to the forefront. This figure is as rugged and ready for action as you’d expect, complete with a mask and interchangeable head and hands.
Size and Style Variations
Alongside the regular 6-inch Marvel Legends figures, Hasbro is also offering the X-Men ’97 line in a 4-inch format on classic card backs like the ones released in the ’90s. These sizes provide fans with more options to choose from, catering to different preferences and collection styles. The 4-inch figures are perfect for those who love the more traditional, compact look, while the 6-inch figures offer more detail and articulation. Both sizes are presented on nostalgic card backs that harken back to the golden era of action figures, adding an extra layer of charm for collectors.
Pricing and Availability
The best part? You can snag these figures for about $24.99 each for the 6-inch and $10.99 each for the 4-inch. Plus, there’s a special Team Up Pack exclusive to Target, featuring Storm, Rogue, Cyclops, Wolverine, and Gambit, all ready to recreate your favorite X-Men moments.
Anticipation for the Disney+ Series
Now, let’s not forget the show that’s inspiring this line. “X-Men ’97” promises to pick up where the original series left off, bringing back the classic voice cast and introducing new adventures for our heroes. The official synopsis teases a continuation of the X-Men’s mission, with Magneto stepping in for Charles Xavier and Mister Sinister trying to end the X-Men once and for all. The show is set to bring a wave of excitement and nostalgia, appealing to both long-time fans and new audiences. With the original voice cast returning, including Cal Dodd as Wolverine and Lenore Zann as Rogue, the series is expected to faithfully revive the spirit and adventure of the iconic 90s show.
While we were all set for a 2023 release on Disney+, there’s a chance it might be pushed to 2024. But that gives us more time to collect all the figures and build our anticipation for the series.
In conclusion, whether you’re a hardcore collector or just someone who appreciates a good action figure, the X-Men ’97 line by Hasbro is something to get excited about. It’s not just about owning a piece of memorabilia; it’s about celebrating a legacy that has continued to inspire and entertain for decades. So, get ready to wield some mutant power in the palm of your hand – and maybe clear some shelf space while you’re at it! Remember to check out Entertainment Earth for links to these figures and other X-Men ’97 toys, and keep an eye out for more exciting releases!