Welcome back to Fantastic Plastic — the periodic pondering here at Pop Heist where I count down my top five favorite toy and figural releases from the past month. I'm John DeQuadros — writer, photographer, and lifelong collector. With 25 years experience working within the confines of this wild world, I like to think I've gotten pretty good at spotting the gems: the sculpts that pop, the designs that wow, and the releases that make collectors everywhere clamor in unison: "Take my money."
September may have shown up cool and crisp, but the toy scene refused to chill. While everyone else leaned into pumpkin spice and back-to-school routine, the industry kept on rolling right along with new sculpts, rad reveals, and more than a few surprises along the way. Now, I'll admit that narrowing things down took some serious late-night list making and far too many "add to cart" moments than I care to confess. But, in the end, I think I've finally pulled together a lineup worth your attention. So whether you fancy yourself a casual collector or a hardcore hunter, think of this as your paywall-free peek at September's best bric-a-brac. Let's tear off the tape, crack the seal, and jump right in...
5. DELUXE — The Iron Giant
I'm a total sucker for anything Iron Giant, and Super7's all-new action figure is no exception to the rule! While it may not be loaded with any of the fancy gimmicks or crazy detailing seen on similar figures from 1000Toys and Diamond Select, this latest version of Ted Hughes' marvellous metal man still radiates a level of toyetic appeal that's impossible to resist. While there are no light-up eyes or extra accessories, and I still can't quite figure out what classifies it as a Deluxe, any day that lets me add a new Iron Giant to my shelf is a win. Plus, at under $35, it's a steal that proves sometimes simplicity reigns supreme.
4. Star Wars: The Vintage Collection — X-34 Landspeeder
It's no secret we've seen our fair share of Landspeeders over the years, but Hasbro's latest Vintage Collection release might just be the best one yet! From a perfectly appointed cockpit to tons of screen accurate touches, this sand-baked convertible feels like the definitive desert ride. The set even goes the extra parsec (it's a unit of distance, kids. Not a unit of time) by including a carded and numbered Luke Skywalker figure right in the box! Sure, the X-34 might not be turning any heads on Tatoonie, but here on Earth, it's a must-have for any Star Wars fan. Whether you're popping into Mos Eisley for a pint, or cruising into Toshi Station for some power converters, this is a sublimely slick representation of Outer Rim tech that proves some classics really do get better with age.
3. Brick Shop — Hot Wheels Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Building Set
If you're still sleeping on the Hot Wheels Brick Shop line, it's time to wake up! While it may be a bit early to claim these models could go toe-to-toe with LEGO, I do think it won't be long before they're giving the building block giant a run for the money. Take the 1/12 scale 300 SL, for example. Featuring metal rims, checkered seats, and all the extra pieces you'll need to take it from tarmac to track, this gull-winged wonder perfectly captures the German juggernaut's signature style. The completed model is a real stunner, and if that's not enough, it even comes with an exclusive die-cast car that's certain to shine in any Hot Wheels collection. Sleek, sporty, and showroom fresh, this 1,600 piece set is certain to thrill any classic car fan.
2. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire — Shimo (PX Previews Exclusive)
While I'll be the first to admit I'm a huge fan of Bandai's MonsterArts line, their recent Shimo figure really left a lot to be desired. Thankfully, Hiya Toys has stepped in with their own take on the monolithic monster, and it's a massive improvement across the board. The articulation is plentiful, letting you pose this towering beast in all sorts of different ways, while the sculpted details are next-level. Yes, I am a little bummed this version doesn't feature translucent plates — one of the few things I think Bandai did better with their figure — but the overall package more than makes up for such a tiny gripe. This is a true kaiju queen — formidable, fierce and ready to dominate any display with ease.
1. Scooby-Doo — Shaggy Rogers
Zoinks! Jada Toys has done it again, snagging the top spot this month with the release of their all-new Shaggy Rogers figure — and it's not hard to see why! Bursting with cartoon-accurate appeal, Hanna-Barbera's hungriest hippie looks like he just stepped straight out of the TV screen. He's packed with articulation, two swappable heads, interchangeable hands, and — of course — a box of Scooby Snacks to tide him over while he waits for his four-legged pal, the centerpiece of Series II. For fans of classic cartoons, Shaggy is sure to tick all the boxes, though I can't help but think a giant sandwich accessory and a dedicated "munching" head sculpt would have really sealed the deal. That said, Jada's attention to detail and fan-friendly extras make this one a win worthy of the name Mystery Inc. Here's hoping we see an accessory pack somewhere down the line — and maybe even an expansion into other Hanna-Barbera heavy-hitters like The Flintstones or The Jetsons. Hey, I can dream, can't I?
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