McFarlane Toys offers collectors a fair chance at SDCC exclusives through a unique EQL draw system.
In a noteworthy move aimed at democratizing access to exclusive collectibles, McFarlane Toys has launched an EQL draw system for two of its San Diego Comic-Con exclusives: the Kilowog mega figure and a Red Hood Variant 7-inch figure. This system is designed to give collectors a fair shot at owning these high-demand items without succumbing to inflated secondary market prices. Such initiatives help level the playing field, protecting against bots and scalpers and providing a more inclusive collecting environment.
DC Action Figures Continue Making Waves at SDCC
San Diego Comic-Con continues to be a hub for exciting action figure reveals, particularly from the DC Universe. Medicom Toy’s DC MAFEX line has showcased upcoming releases capturing iconic comic arcs and cinematic narratives, including figures from “Knightfall,” “Hush,” and “No Man’s Land.” Meanwhile, Mattel revealed its DC Premier Series 3 lineup, featuring two new Batman variants, a New 52 Nightwing, and a detailed Deathstroke figure — the latter already receiving an in-depth look on dedicated fan forums (DCCollectors.com).
Transformers: The Movie Returns to Theaters
As “Transformers: The Movie” celebrates its 40th anniversary, the film is set to return to U.S. theaters in a remastered 4K edition starting September 17. For fans and collectors, this is more than a cinematic event; it’s a nostalgic journey back to a landmark moment in Transformers lore. The film’s impact was profound, with scenes like the death of Optimus Prime leaving lasting “trauma” and memory in the Transformers fandom.
Designer Toy Innovations and Collaborations
The designer toy world remains vibrant with unique collaborations and artistic innovations. Notably, 100% Soft and Camilla d’Errico have teamed up to create the “Dumpster Fire Crybaby Cataclysm Edition,” a psychedelic twist on the popular Dumpster Fire design. Meanwhile, Fools Paradise is engaging sports enthusiasts with its FOOLS CUP 2026 lineup, featuring figures inspired by international soccer powerhouse teams.
Insights into Retro and Unique Collectible Trends
The world of collectibles often circles back to its roots, as evident with the revival of Kenner concept sketches in new Star Wars narratives. A Lucasfilm concept sketch from the 1980s has been reimagined to introduce a new villain, bridging past toy design concepts into current Star Wars canon. Simultaneously, the collectible scene is marked by niche interests like the “Teal Empire Strikes Back 1982 Poster,” hailed as a rarity among Star Wars memorabilia (SWCA Blog).
In summary, collectibles this week reflect a blend of innovative access solutions like the EQL draw, nostalgic revivals, and continued creative expansions in designer and action figure lines, resonating well across various fan communities.
