Welcome back to Fantastic Plastic, the collector-friendly column spotlighting some of the coolest collectibles from across the toy industry. Each month, professional toy photographer and noted pop culture journalist John DeQuadros – whose work has appeared everywhere from Toy Tales to ToyCollectr and even The Toy Book – introduces readers to his favorite new releases, spanning mega manufacturers and indie design houses alike. Did your favorite make the list? What was your standout release from July 2026? Sound off in the comments below and let’s talk toys...
5. Star Wars: The Black Series — Droids Stormtrooper
I loved the old Droids cartoon as a kid. It was one of my first bits of exposure to Star Wars. That said, there's no denying that Hasbro's latest take on the animated adventures of C-3PO and R2-D2 was more than a little underwhelming. However, while I would've preferred updated versions of Thall, Jord, and Kea over the handful of repainted characters we got, I must admit the "new" Stormtrooper is actually pretty neat. Sure, like the other figures in this wave, he's a repaint, but the grey and blue accents adorning the helmet do a nice job of helping him stand out from other Stormies on a shelf. At the same time, the included E-11 blaster and new Electrostaff accessory give fans some unique display options. While he's probably not different enough to merit much attention from most collectors out there, if you're looking to add something a little different to the ranks of your Imperial garrison—an unmistakable design dusted in just a touch of Saturday morning magic—then this is the figure for you!
4. Mega Man X MDLX — Rising Fire Mega Man
Based on his appearance in 1997's Mega Man X4, this scorching variant from threezero puts Capcom's Blue Bomber in a slick red and purple suit and cranks up the fun with 34 points of articulation, multiple interchangeable parts, and diecast components incorporated right into its design. There's even a switchable X-Buster forearm cannon which, when paired with the included Rising Fire effect piece, allows fans to meticulously recreate the iconic moment of launching a fireball. Add to that an enhanced body frame, magnetic feet for augmented stability, and a pair of newly crafted, swappable face plates, and it's easy to see why this pint-sized paladin, coming in at just 4.7 inches tall, is certain to turn up the heat in any game room!
3. Beasts of the Mesozoic — Yutyrannus
Creative Beast Studio // $94.99
Another premium piece of prehistoric plastic, this reissue of the fan-favorite Yutyrannus huali stomps in at an impressive 16 inches long and offers an enhanced design and improved articulation courtesy of 23 movable parts. The sculpting really captures the character of this feathered tyrant, with a downy-like texturing that gives the theropod a tactile, almost fluffy appearance while still retaining plenty of menace. Even better, this version comes complete with two pairs of interchangeable feet, allowing fans to change up its stance on the fly. Additionally, the paintwork features a fantastic array of oranges, yellows, browns, and whites that breath an extra layer of life into the figure without overwhelming its intricate aesthetic. Whether you be a budding paleontologist or someone who simply appreciates a great-looking dinosaur, this reissue is a roaring good time—and that's no exaggeration!
2. Sesame Street — Ultimate Big Bird
Another wonderful addition to NECA's sensational Sesame Street collection, Big Bird brings one of the show's most recognizable residents to life as a deluxe figure that stands over 10 inches tall. He's packed with more than 30 points of articulation and includes swappable hands, a removable necktie and scarf, and some superbly nostalgic accessories—including an interchangeable head that recreates his original first-season appearance. Radar the teddy bear and a big letter "B" round out the set, making this towering tribute one that's definitely worth tweeting about! Here's hoping Snuffy, without a nightmare-inducing swappable head (IYKYK), isn't too far behind.
1. Longbox Heroes — Prestige The Tick
Stand back, citizens, because BigBadWorkShop has churned out one of the best action figures of the year—and it's not even one I knew I needed! Ben Edlund's big blue beacon of justice receives his first new action figure in decades, perfectly capturing every last ounce of over-the-top heroism and unshakable optimism that has defined the legendary character for the last 40 years. Crafted in 1/12 scale and ready to leap into action against crime courtesy of over 20 points of articulation, this officially licensed figure features swappable heads, interchangeable hands, a trusty Crimefinder, and is perfect for fans of both classic comic books and quirky superheroes alike! Evildoers, beware! Because The Tick is back and ready to serve up a heaping helping of justice once more!
