The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been a beloved franchise since their debut in the 1980s. With their unique personalities and martial arts skills, it’s no wonder that they have captured the hearts of fans of all ages. One of the most popular aspects of the franchise is the vast collection of action figures available for fans to collect. In this article, we will take a closer look at the world of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures.
The Origins of TMNT Figures
The first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures were released in 1988 by Playmates Toys. These figures were based on the popular animated series that had debuted a year earlier. The initial wave of figures included all four turtles, as well as their mentor Splinter and their arch-nemesis Shredder. These figures were an instant hit with fans and quickly became one of the hottest toy lines of the late 1980s.
Over the years, Playmates Toys continued to release new waves of figures, each with their own unique designs and accessories. They also released figures based on characters from the various TMNT comic book series and movies. Today, there are hundreds of different Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures available for collectors to add to their collections.
The Different Types of TMNT Figures
There are several different types of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures available for collectors. The most common type is the basic action figure. These figures typically stand around 5 inches tall and come with various accessories such as weapons and interchangeable hands. They are highly poseable and are designed to be played with or displayed.
Another type of TMNT figure is the deluxe figure. These figures are larger than the basic figures and come with more accessories. They are also more detailed and feature more intricate paint jobs. Deluxe figures are often based on specific scenes or episodes from the various TMNT series.
There are also several different types of TMNT figures that are designed specifically for collectors. These figures are often larger and more detailed than the basic figures and come with a higher price tag. They are typically limited edition and are highly sought after by collectors.
The Most Popular TMNT Figures
With so many different Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures available, it can be difficult to know where to start when building a collection. Here are some of the most popular figures among fans:
1. Classic Leonardo – This figure is based on the original design of Leonardo from the 1980s animated series. It comes with his signature katanas and is highly poseable.
2. Shredder – The arch-nemesis of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Shredder is a popular figure among fans. This figure comes with his signature armor and helmet, as well as his deadly claws.
3. Casey Jones – This figure is based on the fan-favorite character from the TMNT comics and animated series. Casey Jones comes with his signature hockey mask and a variety of weapons.
4. Bebop and Rocksteady – These two figures are a popular duo among fans. They come with their signature weapons and are highly poseable.
5. Usagi Yojimbo – This figure is based on the character from the TMNT comic book series of the same name. Usagi Yojimbo comes with his signature sword and is highly detailed.
Tips for Collecting TMNT Figures
If you’re interested in collecting Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to decide what type of collector you want to be. Are you interested in collecting every figure ever released, or do you just want to focus on a specific series or character?
It’s also important to do your research before making any purchases. Some figures are more rare than others and can be quite expensive. Make sure you know what you’re getting into before spending a lot of money on a figure.
Finally, it’s important to take care of your figures once you have them. Keep them in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. This will help prevent any damage or fading to the figures.
Conclusion
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures have been a beloved part of the franchise for over 30 years. With their unique designs and accessories, they are a must-have for any TMNT fan. Whether you’re a casual collector or a serious enthusiast, there is a TMNT figure out there for everyone. So why not start building your collection today?