Each week we like to check out comic book collectibles, take them out of their package and see how cool they really are. This week we're going to look at a bunch of DC Comics characters. They're a little on the small side but they're full of style. DC Universe 'Action League' sets give you a variety of characters to collect and you can find a lot of your favorites.
I've been picking up random sets from time to time. I haven't actually opened any of them (until now). These figures are reminiscent to the Marvel Super Hero Squad figure. They're in the same scale (besides having large hands and feet) so if you have any of those, you can mix them up for the kind of crossovers we'll never actually get to see.
The reason I finally got around to opening these was I came across a five pack at Toys 'R Us (for about $20, I think).
== TEASER ==
If you're looking to get started picking these figures, this is a great way to start. The two packs usually run $8-$10 so for $20, five figures is a great deal. Plus check out how cool they are out of the package.
Each figure has some limited articulation. Most have about four - head, arms and waste. For the size of them, that's all you really need.
First we'll take a look at Batman. He comes in a ready-to-fight pose and is holding a batarang.
The costume is more in the style of the pinstripe version he had before the New 52 started.
Next we get an interesting looking Wonder Woman. You can see she's wearing pants but not quite the same pants she recently wore. They're a little darker but it makes for a cool looking version.
It's interesting that this set refers to Billy Batson's alter ego as Shazam! rather than Captain Marvel. That's his name now and what most people call him. This might be one of my favorites from the bunch. His expression really captures who he is. Or at least, who he was before.
The Martian Manhunter included here is supposed to be in his transparent state. It looks pretty cool and has a different feel depending on the lighting.
The final figure in this box set is Jaime Reyes, the Blue Beetle. It's a little weird that he's included here with the others and unfortunately his head has an odd shape.
The first two pack we'll look at contains Superman and Wonder Woman. Almost as if they knew what was coming since this was released before the big kiss.
Superman is in a flying position. The problem with that is he cannot stand on his own. These figures do have holes in their feet for stands. This set did not include a stand but a couple of the others did.
This Wonder Woman is in her traditional costume. It's the same head sculpt except the hair has less of a shine to it.
The next two pack contains John Stewart and Atrocitus.
John Stewart is the Green Lantern that most of the general public knows. He's ready for action against Atrocitus.
When I saw the Flashpoint sets, it seemed odd to make figures based on a single story arc that likely wouldn't get referenced again in the comics. But seeing this version of Batman, I had to get it. The "Project" Superman figure is still kind of weird.
Larfleeze and Glomulus in a two-pack? How could I pass this one by?
These newer sets are geared more to contain a figure and some sort of item. The last one is Atom with Plastic Man, as a hang glider.
As with the Super Hero Squad figures, these guys are the perfect size. They're small enough so you can get a whole bunch of them without it taking up huge amounts of room. You have to admit they are a bit cute. I'm sure these won't be the last that I'll be getting.
Here's a few random parting shots.
