The release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in 2015 ignited a renewed passion for the galaxy far, far away, and with it, a surge in demand for action figures. This wasn't just a simple rehash of classic characters; The Force Awakens introduced a whole new generation of heroes and villains, each demanding their own plastic representation. This guide delves into the diverse world of Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figures, exploring their variations, value, and the enduring appeal for collectors.
The Rise of New Heroes and Villains
The Force Awakens action figure lines capitalized on the excitement surrounding new characters. Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, Kylo Ren, and Captain Phasma instantly became fan favorites, and their figures were highly sought after. The figures themselves varied across different lines, including:
Hasbro's Black Series
Known for its high level of detail and articulation, the Black Series line offered premium Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figures. These highly collectible items often included movie-accurate accessories and packaging, making them particularly appealing to discerning collectors. Variations within the Black Series often included different costumes or accessories, driving up the value of specific releases. Certain Black Series figures, particularly early releases, are now considered highly valuable collector's items.
Hasbro's 3.75-Inch Line
This more affordable line catered to a broader audience, offering a wider range of characters and providing a more accessible entry point for collectors. While not as detailed as the Black Series, these figures still captured the essence of their on-screen counterparts. Finding complete sets of this line, especially in pristine condition, is becoming increasingly challenging. The prevalence of different versions (e.g., variations in paint applications, accessories) makes tracking down specific figures an engaging challenge for seasoned collectors.
Other Notable Lines
Beyond Hasbro's main lines, other manufacturers contributed to the Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figure market, offering unique takes on popular characters and sometimes more obscure figures seen briefly in the film. These lines often provide interesting variations and alternatives to the more mainstream offerings. The hunt for these rare finds often adds another layer of excitement to the collecting experience.
The Value of Collectible Figures
The value of Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figures depends on several factors, including:
- Rarity: Limited edition releases or figures with minor manufacturing variations often command higher prices.
- Condition: Mint-in-box (MIB) figures are significantly more valuable than opened or damaged figures.
- Demand: The popularity of a specific character naturally impacts the demand and, consequently, the price.
- Packaging: The original packaging plays a crucial role in determining a figure's value. Figures with damaged or missing packaging are usually worth significantly less.
Tips for the Aspiring Collector
For anyone looking to start or expand their Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figure collection, consider these tips:
- Research: Thoroughly research the different lines and variations available. Understand what makes certain figures more valuable than others.
- Set a Budget: Collecting can be expensive. Establishing a budget from the start is essential for responsible collecting.
- Storage: Proper storage is crucial to preserve the condition of your figures. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Patience: Building a collection takes time. Don't rush into purchasing every figure you see.
The world of Star Wars: The Force Awakens action figures offers a compelling blend of nostalgia, collectability, and the sheer excitement of discovering rare and valuable items. With careful planning and a little patience, you can build a remarkable collection that celebrates one of cinema’s most iconic franchises.
