The Best Anime Action Figures for Collectors

With an explosion of innovative and instantly popular anime, and the merch to go along with it, even long-time fans of all things anime will start to wonder why Luffy tried so hard to find treasure when it is in so much abundance! Unlike the search for the elusive “One Piece,” the challenge for collectors these days is to choose the best anime action figures to add to their collection. 

But how do you determine which figures to buy? To help refine your collecting journey, here are a few pointers on the best anime merch, from action figures to accessories, apparel, and beyond:

The Classics

There are so many factors that go into what makes a classic anime timeless. The style, the message, the genre? What’s important is that each one represents a milestone in the medium we all love! You can’t go wrong with the shows and characters that transcend time.

Build-Your-Best Anime Action Figures

There is always room for more fresh takes on the anime series that defined more than a generation: they defined the medium itself. As a result, some of the most popular anime merch has taken on a life of its own, such as Gundam, or Evangelion. These are two of the most cherished of all Japanese franchises because they turn their stories into crafty opportunities for 3D fun. Ironically, because Gundam is just as popular for its wide array of model kits, some of the best in anime action figures are the ones you build yourself. 

Be warned, though: make sure to save room not only to display your masterpieces, but for your hobby hub, your kit accessories, and, of course, your backlog! After all, the reason mecha-themed anime merch is so popular is because there are so many fun ways to enjoy it.

Over 9000 Ways to Stay Classy

Are you a die-hard for classic Shonen titles like Dragon Ball? Are you willing to pay an arm and a leg for the psychological thrill of anything in the Fullmetal Alchemist universe? Are you always game for more Yu-Gi-Oh? No matter your favorite classic, quality action figures of the best-known anime of all time are never a bad purchase. Figurines from popular series are friendly and approachable ways to showcase your fandom and love for fun. 

Still not sure what to pick? Narrow it down by theme or character, like:

• Do you like the “nerdy” characters? 
• Do you admire strong heroines? Complex heroes? 
• Perhaps you’re a fan of the critters in a series?
• Are you a romantic at heart?

Ultimately, defining what you love most can help set the whole tone for the rest of a collection you can be proud of.

Cuddly Classics

And, lest we forget, high-quality anime merch from always-popular Studio Ghibli can be as timeless as the stories themselves. They can be so comforting that it is only natural to want a soft plush toy ordered through a delivery service. Be warned, though: you’ll want to cuddle, or even catch ‘em all if you’re a Pokemon fan! 

For Future Classics

Anime is known for its ability to creatively provoke and inspire people as much as it entertains, and the newer hit anime shows continue that tradition. Through some combination of their memorable characters, their groundbreaking, original plots, or in other cases, their contagious charm, series like My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, and the instantly-endearing Spy x Family are here to remain as some of the best new anime with some amazing action figures. It doesn’t hurt to start collecting the more contemporary figures now and hold onto them for nostalgia in the future.

Bring Your Video Game Hero Home

Video games from Japanese developers are also on another level of their own, influencing some amazing anime spin-offs and crossovers. Some of the best anime action figures to collect have something to do with video games. For those who love both anime and gaming, the future belongs to you: the rise of so many Japanese Role Playing Games (JRPGs) blend the interactive fun of gaming with anime levels of rich plotlines, deep world-building, and complex (playable!) characters. And let’s not forget how gaming has inspired whole new genres in anime, *cough* Sword Art Online *cough* 

Square Enix, through games like Nier Automata and Final Fantasy, also reflects how some of the most popular anime merch is actually from iconic moments, people, and even collectibles in video game franchises. As a result, both the most beloved Japanese companies like Nintendo and rising IPs like the Fate/Grand Order franchise have followed suit, creating games that further dive into anime-like storytelling. 

For the avid gamer, you probably already know what to do without consulting a guide: to skip the cutscene, we recommend that you add your best anime action figures to your gaming desk or around your TV screen. As a sidequest, make sure your favorite digital cheerleader, such as a hololive or Hatsune Miku personality, is also ready to cheer you on.

Make a Scene! 

Speaking of cutscenes, collect so you can tell a story, and use your anime merch to recreate a popular scene! Do you just adore creating landscapes only to introduce Godzilla to them? Are you thinking of building a real, operating model train for your Spirited Away recreation? Have you ever caused people to look at you with suspicion because of that black notebook you’re always carrying around? If that sounds like you, starting with the variety and versatility of your models, including the ability to pose your anime action figures, is the best approach. 

In such a case, get ready to reflect on not only which series, but which scene was the most definitive moment that will be as fun to design as it is to display. After all, letting the spark of creativity drive your story-telling is at the heart of all good anime - so what a better fitting tribute than to tell a story in turn? 

However you do it, we look forward to helping you build your collection!

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