Mattel's new MOTU figures spark interest despite mixed articulation, while Kamen Rider and Project R.E.D. reveal new directions.
This batch of reviews features several intriguing developments in the world of action figures and tokusatsu, with Mattel’s latest Masters of the Universe figures drawing particular attention. While the new MOTU movie figures have caught the eye of some collectors, the questionable articulation has raised eyebrows in the community. Additionally, Toei’s diversification efforts with Project R.E.D. and Kamen Rider attract notable discussion.
Masters of the Universe: New Figures and Playset
Mattel’s release of the Masters of the Universe (MOTU) 2026 Basic and Origins Movie Figures, including a new Revenge of Skeletor figure, has generated mixed reactions. According to Super-Duper Toybox, while some of the figures like Teela and Man-At-Arms appear to have appealing designs, the lack of ankle articulation has detracted from their overall playability. There is some consolation, however, as the posability is decent thanks to the hinge swivel knees. The recently released Battle for Eternia playset, which combines Castle Grayskull and Snake Mountain, adds a layer of excitement, fitting well with MOTU’s previous vintage editions.
Tokusatsu Takes New Directions
Following the conclusion of Super Space Sheriff Gavan Infinity, Toei continues to broaden its range with Kakuseihunter Omegahorn and Kamen Rider My-Th. While Gavan Infinity paid homage to the tokusatsu superhero legacy, Omegahorn reifies giant monsters at its core, showing a narrative shift towards kaiju lore under the Project R.E.D. initiative. Kamen Rider My-Th’s release marks a strategic expansion into online viewership via Toei’s YouTube channel, written by the acclaimed Naruhisa Arakawa. In the context of Kamen Rider’s 55th anniversary, this move might signal further global outreach efforts.
Star Wars and Other Collectibles
The world of Star Wars action figures also sees varied additions and re-releases. Although not equipped with new articulation breakthroughs, figures like the Saga Legends Luke Skywalker and Retro Collection Emperor Palpatine capture nostalgia by staying true to their vintage counterparts, as highlighted in another Super-Duper Toybox entry. Meanwhile, Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts’ rendition of Tony Tony Chopper from One Piece’s Drum Island Arc continues to expand the pre-time skip offerings of the Straw Hat crew, keeping with Bandai’s commitment to the fan-favorite franchise, as summarized by My Shiny Toy Robots.
Finally, in the realm of dinosaur figures, Mattel’s Quetzalcoatlus from the Jurassic World Legacy Collection remains a topic of comparison in the ongoing refinement of pterosaur models, as praised by Dinosaur Toy Blog for its design excellence. As the industry marches forward, manufacturers continue to walk the tightrope between nostalgia and new advancements.
