Action Figure Toys

Action figures are as popular today as they were when Hasbro coined the phrase back in 1964. Although the production techniques and characters have continued to evolve with the changing trends of children, parents and the most popular film or TV shows of the time, the staple favourites - including superheroes, monsters and robots - continue to fascinate and entertain kids of all ages. Action Man probably has to be the greatest action figure of all time, and evolved from a purely military figure into an extreme sportsman, racing driver and pilot!

Action figure pirates have proved particularly popular since the Pirates of The Caribbean movies - and hit shows such as Lost and Power Rangers have helped keep the action figure market alive and exciting. Dr Who, the world’s longest running science fiction TV series, enjoyed a sensational revival in 2005 that brought with it the launch of some terrific toy action figures to accompany the ongoing series - like figures of Rose, Cybermen, Slitheen, Ood and Scarecrow. Collectors were thrilled when Character Options released the highly detailed Eleven Doctors Figure Set in 2010.

There is also a wave of niche action figures constantly entering the market which focus on themes such as horror, goth and anime/manga. These are a far cry from the more traditional and smaller toy figures sold by companies such as Papo and Schleich. The passion for watching various wrestling TV shows has created a whole industry of wrestling action figures that permanently reinvents itself as new wrestlers enter the ring with companies like Jaaks Pacific and Mattel at the forefront of these developments.

Although many modern action figures and vehicles come with sound effects, light effects and even key phrases from the film or hero in question, the timeless superhero action figures such as Batman and Superman continue to provide the perfect way for children to make up stories, invent new superpowers and practice playing with new identities and scenarios. Check out our list of recommended action figures toy shops below – and enjoy the many open-ended hours of play that ensues!