The TMNT toy universe is massive. With each new television series, a fresh wave of figures hit store shelves. Hundreds have been released over the years and Nickelodeon's Turtles hasn't bucked the trend. The latest series has only added to the huge slew of action figures.
I'll update and expand this list when new figures are released. But as of today, here are my 5 Favorite Nickelodeon Figures.
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5. DONATELLO THE WIZARD
The original series released a lot of silly variations when it came to Turtles figures. Raphael as a magician, Michelangelo as a farmer, Donatello as a gargoyle - the list is endless. But despite their ridiculousness, I ate it up as a kid.
That's why I am happy to see the absurdity continue with Donatello The Wizard in the LARP series (Live Action Role Play). It's a modern twist on a classic concept. What kid (or adult) can resist a ninja in a wizard's hat? You shall not pass.
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4. CASEY JONES
This dude is no stranger in the world of TMNT figures. He's been released quite often over the years, getting an overhaul each time. In his latest incarnation he's younger, more agile, and wears roller blades!
I'm not a big fan of Casey Jones in the Nickelodeon series. I don't dislike like him either, but the cocky teenager doesn't compare to the original scoundrel that had a solid sense of humor. Then again, I'm 30 years old. Nickelodeon might be aiming for a different audience. But, the toy itself is incredible. It's super detailed and packs a wallop of accessories. Sweet articulation along with a removable mask make this figure a must-have.
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3. MUTAGEN MAN
The writers of the Nickelodeon show did a stellar job at developing Mutagen Man's character. His multi-episode arc has successfully made him an interesting player in the series. I'm looking forward to seeing more stories centered around this goopy guy. Until then, I've got his rad action figure.
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2. SDCC EXCLUSIVE SHREDDER
Shredder figures have always had difficulty capturing the spirit of their TV counterparts. Something usually misses the mark. As a kid, Super Shredder was the only toy in my eyes that came close to being a true villain. The SDCC Exclusive Shredder has changed that.
The standard Nickelodeon Shredder figure was on the brink of greatness, but fell a tad short. The SDCC Exclusive Shredder, however, picks up the slack. A tattered cape, removable helmet, and shiny, metallic armor finally make him the menacing villain that embodies his on-screen persona.
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1. FISHFACE
Fishface is a completely original character that answers my call for innovation. His loony character design makes for an even better toy. As a mutant fish with robotic legs and a water-breathing rig, the poor dude seems like a victim of some cruel, yet hilarious, joke. His overall wackiness is a nice throwback to the absurdity of the classic figures, but still retains a clean, modern approach.
With all his zaniness, Fishface rules land, sea, and The Sewer Den.
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I'm eagerly anticipating more Nickelodeon TMNT figures as they're released. I'm hoping this Favorite 5 list will soon mutate into a Top 10. Until then, keep on collecting.
What's your favorite figure in the Nickelodeon collection?
I'm still loving my Metalhead, original Donnie, and Casey figures. Really want to pick up the Eastman & Laird versions of the four that just came out too. And I agree, even though the original line went a bit overboard with the weird variant turtles, I do like these Larping figures, especially the Donnie and Leo...
ReplyDeleteAwesome list. I really liked the four original turtles came out, metalhead, and mutagen man. I thought dogpound would be awesome but the figure was a let down, same as leatherhead. Fishface took me a long time to find, but was totally awesome, but one of my favs has to be Slash, love the color of him.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I love the Turtles, I think the villains stole the spotlight in this line. Even with the reduced articulation, they're still some of my favorite figures.
ReplyDeleteYou're right on. The villains are so bad and rad! Gotta love 'em.
DeleteCasey Jones is a fav for me. Though, Fishface is a close second.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with the list, I would have to add in tho, the 7 pack MOUSERS, after waiting 30 years for them to be available (outside the classic windup one and the 2k3 April figure that came with 2) now we can finally have an army of them easily, and they fit great with all the TMNT lines.
ReplyDeleteI should really update this list with honorable mentions. The MOUSERS do deserve a spot. Fans rejoiced when those were released. Armies of those things are cool. I was suckered into buying 2!
DeleteI don't own a single one from your top five, although I have been tempted by Casey a time or two.
ReplyDeleteThey're all great figures. For under $10, you can't go wrong.
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