The New York Comic Con 2026 brings major reveals for G.I. Joe Classified and Mattel's DC action figures, setting the stage for significant upcoming releases.
This week, collector enthusiasm is chiefly centered around New York Comic Con 2026, which is currently underway through October 11th. As usual, the event has acted as a pivotal platform for major brand reveals. Notably, collectors are paying attention to announcements from Hasbro’s G.I. Joe line and Mattel’s refreshed take on DC action figures.
G.I. Joe Classified Figures at NYCC
Hasbro continues to expand its G.I. Joe Classified Series with a new wave of action figures presented at NYCC, including the introductions of H.E.A.T. Viper and Daina of The October Guard, among others. These figures have historically garnered a substantial fan base due to their detailed sculpts and nostalgia factor. According to Awesome Toy Blog, the figures will be available for pre-order starting October 13th. This steady stream of releases indicates Hasbro’s commitment to keep the momentum going in the midst of intense market competition.
Mattel’s DC Strategy Unveiled
Meanwhile, Mattel’s reclaiming of the DC action figure license takes significant shape at NYCC. After months of speculation about their strategy, the reveals this year clarify their approach: a diversified line tailored to different types of collectors and budgets. The DC Collectors reports that Mattel is opting not for a uniform product line but for targeted tiers – a potentially savvy move to cater to both the hardcore collectors and general consumers. Such a strategy not only accentuates diversity but may also boost competitiveness against other major DC merchandise producers like McFarlane Toys.
Unexpected McFarlane DC Multiverse Drop
In an unexpected twist, McFarlane Toys has listed four new 7-inch DC Multiverse figures from the “Absolute Universe” line on EB Games without any formal announcement, offering another surprise to collectors. The new figures are priced at $34.99 each and are currently available for pre-order as noted by DC Collectors. This approach of releasing new products without fanfare could be a tactical response to maintain market intrigue.
Elsewhere in the Collectibles World
While NYCC has taken the spotlight, the 2026 Taipei Toy Festival is happening concurrently, promising its share of exclusive reveals and launches. Details on specific releases are sparse from the initial reports on Toysrevil, but it’s clear the festival holds its own significance in the collectibles calendar.
In licensing news, Btoys comments on a perplexing lack of variation in Mattel’s Hot Wheels “Screen Time” lineup, specifically mentioning the absence of significant new miniatures, highlighting an issue that collectors likely find frustrating in the pursuit of truly unique items.
Overall, while two of the year’s major toy events overlap, it’s New York Comic Con that is capturing most of the significant collectibles headlines this October, setting the stage for upcoming holidays and beyond.
