With Halloween around the corner, new releases from Thrilljoy and Trick or Treat Studios feature prominently alongside retro finds.
As Halloween approaches, there is a noticeable uptick in figures catering to the spooky season, with both new releases and nostalgic finds making waves. Here’s a look at what’s capturing the interest of collectors and enthusiasts.
Thrilljoy’s Horror-Themed Vinyl Figures Rise in Popularity
Thrilljoy, a company established in 2024 by former Funko CEO Mariotti, is gaining traction with its PIX! Garbage Pail Kids series. This year’s “Trick or Treat Through 31 Days of Toy Terror” features a new entry: Jack O. Lantern. Thrilljoy’s knack for combining pop culture nostalgia with unique twists on classic aesthetics is proving to be a hit, following in the footsteps of Funko’s model while offering their own unique touches. The PIX! series is particularly notable for its set edition runs and chase variants, adding a layer of collectability that appeals to many enthusiasts (Action Figure Barbecue).
Trick or Treat Studios Brings Classic Zombies and Seasonal Icons
Trick or Treat Studios has their own nostalgic entry, with their “Trick or Treat Through 31 Days of Toy Terror” series featuring Dr. Tongue from the cult classic film “Day of the Dead.” Dr. Tongue is renowned for his creepy visage and his missing lower jaw, making him a distinctive character in the zombie genre. This release continues to build anticipation for collectors as Halloween nears (Action Figure Barbecue).
Additionally, the cultural staple of Snoopy is getting a seasonal makeover with “Pumpkin Snoopy” in black and white. While not directly tied to the Peanuts Halloween special, this rendition is a nostalgic nod to the joy he brings during the holiday season. This figure taps into the timeless appeal of Charles Schultz’s creations and their legacy in holiday storytelling (Action Figure Barbecue).
Unearthing Vintage Finds
In a different kind of Halloween discovery, a long-lost Princess Anck-es-en-Amon figure from Universal Monsters Mini-Mates Series 3 resurfaces, highlighting the ongoing allure of retro and classic horror. This figure from the 2012 run was serendipitously found in a Toys ‘R’ Us clearance years after its initial release, reminding collectors of the rich history these figures can have (She’s Fantastic).
Creepy Collectibles Beyond Figures
Expanding beyond typical figures, the “Little Nightmares – The Lady” mini-figure by Bandai/Namco also generates interest, particularly due to its unique design that resonates with fans of the macabre game series. As awareness of “Little Nightmares” grows, collectors are increasingly drawn to pieces that reflect the more eerie aspects of the game (She’s Fantastic).
This combination of new releases and rediscovered classics appears to be driving a robust pre-Halloween market, illustrating the power of thematic collectibles and the nostalgia they evince.
