Video games have always sparked imagination, but some titles took things further by stepping off the screen and into the toy aisle. Action figures based on video games didn’t just let kids play with their favorite characters in new ways—they also created a booming collectibles market that’s still alive today. From fighters to space marines, these figures have become a treasure for nostalgic fans and modern collectors alike.
Street Fighter
In the early ‘90s, Street Fighter II exploded in popularity, and toy companies jumped in to capture the craze. Lines of Ryu, Chun-Li, and M. Bison figures hit shelves, often packaged with accessories and martial arts poses. These toys weren’t just fun for kids—they’ve become highly collectible pieces of arcade history.
Halo
Microsoft’s Halo franchise didn’t just change gaming—it also sparked a wave of merchandise. Companies like McFarlane Toys produced detailed Spartan action figures, complete with weapons and armor variations. Today, sealed Halo figures can command strong prices on the resale market, proving how big the franchise’s reach truly was.
Pokémon
Pokémon wasn’t just a video game—it became a worldwide phenomenon. Alongside trading cards, Nintendo licensed out dozens of toy lines. From small PVC figures to articulated versions of Ash and Pikachu, Pokémon action figures became a staple in toy aisles throughout the late ‘90s and 2000s.
Tomb Raider
Lara Croft wasn’t only a gaming icon—she became a pop-culture figure. Several companies, including NECA, released Tomb Raider figures with accessories like dual pistols and jungle gear. These toys highlighted how one video game character could cross into mainstream collectibles.
The Legend of Zelda
Link and Zelda have been staples of Nintendo’s toy lines for years. Figures from Ocarina of Time and later Breath of the Wild were particularly popular, letting fans display their favorite hero in physical form. With Zelda’s popularity only growing, these collectibles remain in high demand.
Why These Figures Matter to Collectors
Video game action figures show how beloved characters can live beyond the console. They also serve as time capsules, representing a specific era in gaming history. For collectors, these toys often blend nostalgia with value—making them just as exciting as the games themselves.
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