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Action Figures | Collectibles | Toy News

This week in Toy News : G.I. Joe leaks, Tanks Giving, and Hasbro Selfie Series

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GI Joe Classified Series Leaks: Big Boa, A Figure with a Rocky History and a 60-year Anniversary figure.

For all the GI Joe enthusiasts out there, get ready for an exhilarating expansion in the GI Joe Classified Series with the introduction of Big Boa and the 60th Anniversary Action Soldier Infantry figure! The debut of Big Boa is not just another figure release; it’s a dive into a remarkable chapter of toy history. Initially conceptualized as the arch-rival of Rocky Balboa in the GI Joe universe, Big Boa’s roots are deeply intertwined with Sylvester Stallone’s legendary character. Hasbro, ambitiously planning to incorporate Rocky Balboa himself into the GI Joe series, had even started designing action figures. But, as fate would have it, the licensing agreement for Rocky Balboa fell through at the eleventh hour. This twist in events led to Big Boa emerging as a standalone character, intriguingly without the originally planned nemesis, Rocky Balboa.

In another exciting leak from the GI Joe classified line, we’ve been treated to a sneak peek of the 60th Anniversary Action Soldier Infantry figure, thanks to the reliable GI Shark. These figures, showcased in their attractive windowed package designs, are slated for release in early 2024.

Ramen Toys’ TMB BMT: Revolutionizing 1:12 Scale Collectibles

Ramen Toy’s TMB BMT is causing a stir among 1:12 scale collectors. This 3-in-1 modular tank, inspired by the M60 Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge and the M50 ‘Ontos’ Tank Destroyer, is set to redefine action figure displays. It’s a perfect blend of realism and nostalgia, drawing inspiration from the Bridge Layer vehicle from the 1985 GI Joe line and the Wolverine from the vintage line. This modular tank is a space-saving, practical choice for collectors who are running out of room but can’t resist adding more to their collections.

The Unexpected Demise of Hasbro’s Selfie Series

In a surprising turn of events, Hasbro has discontinued its innovative Selfie Series of action figures. This line allowed fans to create custom figures with their faces using a specialized app. Despite the concept’s novelty, the series faced challenges like a higher price point and limited accuracy in phone scans. The variety of figures also lacked diversity, particularly in representing women and plus-sized body types​.

Reflecting on Hasbro’s Pricing Strategy: Lessons Learned

Hasbro’s pricing strategy has always been a subject of debate among collectors. The recent discontinuation of the Selfie Series brings back memories of similar issues with the Starting Line Up series figures. Priced at $49.99 each, these figures included exclusive cards and digital Panini NFT trading cards but faced criticism for their high cost. The hefty price tag, likely influenced by licensing and production costs, raises questions about Hasbro’s expectations from collectors. Are fans willing to pay premium prices for unique collectibles, or is there a limit to their spending?

The Collectible Toy Industry: A Landscape of Innovation and Nostalgia

The current trends in the collectible toy industry highlight a fascinating blend of innovation, nostalgia, and economic realities. The leaks of GI Joe figures suggest a strong interest in iconic brands and their history. At the same time, Ramen Toys’ innovative modular tank design shows a demand for new, creative ways to display collections. On the other hand, Hasbro’s discontinuation of the Selfie Series and its past pricing challenges with the Starting Line Up series reflect the complexities of balancing innovation, production costs, and consumer expectations.

Final Thoughts: The Ever-Changing World of Toy Collecting

The world of toy collecting is dynamic and ever-evolving. As we navigate through exciting leaks, innovative designs, and strategic decisions by major players like Hasbro, one thing remains clear: the toy industry continues to captivate and engage collectors of all ages. Whether it’s the thrill of adding a new figure to a GI Joe collection, the excitement of displaying figures with Ramen Toys’ modular tank, or reflecting on the economic aspects of collecting, each development offers insight into the diverse interests and passions of the collector community. As we move forward, it’s evident that the collectible toy industry will continue to surprise, delight, and challenge us, making it an endlessly fascinating world to be a part of.

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