Mattel have released some imagery of the latest from the GHOSTBUSTERS action figure line. After the jump is a handful of shots of some of the characters based off the original motion picture in various shapes and sizes.

By the way, did anyone here see Zombieland?
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Back in May, I brought up the story on how popular media outlets that cover the toys & collectibles trade were no longer getting advance notice from DC Direct on store releases like action figures, statues and other such items. Gone were the days for action figure fans like myself to get an appropriate heads up on product delays (still waiting for Series 1 of Blackest Night figures, by the way) and when items would possibly move up in the schedule. This has been an invaluable tool for me when keeping a monthly budget on the collectibles that are on my radar. And you know, it’s especially useful when the holidays are approaching.

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It’s ALIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVE!!!!

Blast Magazine has posted an image of the next issue of Game Informer, which has a cover confirming that the post-apocalyptic and/or steampunk-flavored Disney game will in fact be a reality.

If you’re curious about looking at some concept shots of this game click here. Is it Mickey as we’ve never seen him before? if this cover and those images are any indication — heck yeah!

[via Topless Robot]

Ready for the next wave of DC Universe Classics?

Well, Mattel has graciously sent over some pictures of the latest figures, which will ship in the Spring of 2010. You can pre-order the whole set or individually at Entertainment Earth, and see more images after the cut!

Mary Marvel:

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Hasbro’s Mighty Muggs Spider-Man toy

David LaFuente’s Ultimate Spider-Man

Am I the only one who thinks they look pretty similar to each other?

Apparently so. This show has been talked about for a while now and it’s good to see some actual footage. Marvel released this little clip (more of a music video actually) of the show and I’m intrigued. Marvel really doesn’t have a show like this out now, or has EVER made a show like this.

I’m a big fan of the SHS toys, I have several that surround my kitchen and my office. I’ll give this show a try especially after hearing some of the voice actors involved: Mark Hamill as Red Skull, James Marsters as Mr. Fantastic and George Takei as Galactus. In addition to the show, coming out this fall, a variety of Super Hero Squad merchandise spin-offs are planned, including a video game from THQ (also coming out this fall), expansion of the Hasbro toy line, and a major fastfood partnership.

So, what do you readers think of the clip? Do you think it’s something you and your child would watch, or is just too kiddie?

Forget repulsor beams, flamethrowers, and sci-fi cluster bombs — the strongest weapon in Iron Man’s arsenal right now is Matt Fraction. And Marvel has just announced that Sega will be unleashing the Eisner-nominated comics writer on the upcoming Iron Man 2 video game.

“‘Iron Man 2′ presented me with the opportunity to work with both SEGA and Marvel on creating something wholly unique—a story that exists at the crossroads of the comics I write, the film universe I was lucky enough to be asked to contribute to, and a wholly immersive interactive experience like this game,” Fraction said in an interview at Marvel.com. “Writing a game presents an entirely new challenge, where the player engages with the world, with the big and small aspects of the place and characters. They’re a coconspirator in the narrative. I hope it’s as exciting and challenging to play as it was to write.”

Currently, in the comics storyline, Fraction has led Tony Stark down a desperate path as he becomes the “World’s Most Wanted,” as he escapes the clutches of Norman Osborn and the international military group known as H.A.M.M.E.R. With a list of all the world’s known superhero identites in his brain, Tony has been steadily erasing his mind, knowing full well the price he’ll pay: not just his unmatched genius, not just memories of his best friends, but even basic motor skills.

According to the Marvel interview, Sega apparently took fan comments on the first Iron Man game — a game which Metacritic gave an unfavorable 45 review — to heart, focusing more on hand-to-hand combat with a redesigned control scheme. “Iron Man has an undeniably huge fan base, and we really wanted to give them the game they have been waiting for,” said SEGA of America’s vice president of marketing, Sean Ratcliffe.

The game is due out in the spring of 2010 for the XBox 360, Playstation 3, Nintendo Wii, PSP, and Nintendo DS.

Looking for a collectible that’s leagues away from everything else? Look no further!

eFX has announced that it will preview a 4-foot collectible of the Nautilus, Captain Nemo’s underwater vessel from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, at the San Diego Comic Con!

“20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is truly one of the all-time classic adventure movies, and was a milestone for the Disney creative team,” said Bryan Ono, president of eFX Inc, in a written statement. “The Nautilus is a Disney icon, and our artisans and engineers have been working overtime to develop this extraordinary re-creation.”

While there is currently no word on release dates for this behemoth, eFX says there will be more information at SDCC, as well as the D23 Expo in September.

Hey MOTU Fans!

Oh man, this is BIG… the design team at Mattel just announced the first book in their “Designed @ Mattel” series and it’s a MOTU art book!

The book shows off the fantastic art of the MOTU brand from 1981 through current day. It’s packed with never-before-seen Mattel concept art, behind-the-scenes notes, posters, oil paintings, and a whole lot more from across the brand. All that MOTU art from over the years is mighty sweet, but the book also premiers concept art from new projects, like a proposed live action film!

It’s a soft-cover edition, limited to only 1,000 numbered copies. Each one comes with a numbered cover ribbon and an embossed seal. The first place they’ll be available is San Diego Comic-Con. Purchases will be limited to two per guest, per wait in line. And get this… you can even have your copy signed by the Mattel artists at the show!

If any units remain after the show they may be sold on Mattycollector.com, but honestly, we expect to sell out at SDCC. Be sure to come by the MattyCollector.com booth early for your chance to own a piece of MOTU history!

—Matty

Benefit supports Hasbro Children’s Hospital and Bradley Hospital

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (July 9, 2009) – On August 3, fans of the G.I. JOE brand will have an early opportunity to see their favorite action heroes come to life at a special charity premiere of G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra, hosted by Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS). Hasbro is underwriting the entire evening’s festivities, with 100 percent of ticket sales benefiting Hasbro Children’s Hospital and Bradley Hospital.  Tickets are on sale now.

“This charity premiere gives Rhode Islanders and G.I. JOE fans the unique opportunity to not only watch their heroes on the big screen, but also to play a part in being a hero themselves by supporting two hospitals that provide vital care to children in our community,” said Brian Goldner, president and chief executive officer of Hasbro, Inc. and producer of G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra.  “I am thrilled that we have been able to provide Rhode Islanders with the opportunity to see the film before the rest of the world. After all, this is the birthplace of the G.I. JOE saga!”

Hasbro has a long history of supporting programs that help children triumph over critical life obstacles through its community relations programs – including national and international philanthropic partnerships, cause marketing initiatives, and Team Hasbro, the company’s employee volunteer program. All funds raised at the premiere will support programs and services at the two dedicated pediatric hospitals in Rhode Island – Hasbro Children’s Hospital, ranked among the top 30 children’s hospitals in the country by Parents magazine, and Bradley Hospital, the nation’s first psychiatric hospital devoted exclusively to children and adolescents.

According to Goldner, leveraging one of Hasbro’s most iconic and recognizable brands to lead this fundraising effort makes sense for the children who count G.I. JOE action figures among their favorite toys, as well as fans who are eager to see the G.I. JOE story take to the big screen.

“G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra brings to life the tales of heroism and bravery that have been synonymous with the G.I. JOE brand since its launch 45 years ago,” said Goldner. “Hasbro is thrilled to work with Paramount Pictures and director Stephen Sommers to create a film that brings together G.I. JOE fans of all ages to experience this legendary saga.”

G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra will appear in theaters nationwide on August 7, 2009.

In addition to the premiere party and advance screening of G.I. JOE: The Rise of Cobra, those purchasing tickets will receive a unique gift pack of G.I. JOE products and other Hasbro collectibles. Fans will also have a chance to meet some of the actors from the movie.

The evening will feature a preshow party at the Showcase Cinemas in Warwick, R.I., beginning at 6:15 p.m. with the movie screening at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available now for $75 and can be purchased by calling (401) 727-5637. (more…)

Mattel posted this news and video today over on their MattyCollector.com site:

San Diego Comic-Con is just about here, and man, do I have an early show-stopper toy for you! You already know our DC Universe Classics Wonder Twins figure set includes Zan, Jayna, an eagle, and a water bucket with the face of Zan. Sweet, but that’s not what I’m talking about… it’s the AMAZING package that features lights and sounds you gotta see to believe!

DCUC Wonder Twins packaging w/lights and sound

Remember, the set that includes Gleek will only be available at SDCC while supplies last. If you don’t make it to SDCC, you can still get the Wonder Twins — but without Gleek — here at MattyCollector.com on Monday, August 3rd at 12:00 Noon!

For more information on Mattel’s Comic Con Exclusives and panels click here.

Do you have a fever, and the only prescription is more Green Lantern?

Well, DC Direct is offering not one, but five chances to get your Hal Jordan fix at the San Diego Comic Con!

In keeping with the lead-up to Blackest Night, there will be a Green Lantern, Orange Lantern, Blue Lantern, Red Lantern, and Sinestro Corps version of Jordan, available to con attendees only.

According to IGN, there will be only 1,500 of the variants, and 3,000 of the Green Lantern version. Yet it’s a bit more complicated than this: attendees will only be able to buy two figures at a time, meaning that you’ll have to check out DC’s booth every day, from Wednesday through Sunday, to get the entire one-man Corps. Here’s a break-down of the schedule:

Wednesday (Preview Night) - July 22 - 6:00 pm Hal Jordan: Green Lantern - 3,000 pieces available

Thursday, July 23 - 10:00 am
Hal Jordan: Yellow Lantern - 1,500 pieces available

Friday, July 24 - 10:00 am
Hal Jordan: Blue Lantern - 1,500 pieces available

Saturday, July 25 - 10:00 am
Hal Jordan: Orange Lantern - 1,500 pieces available

Sunday, July 26 - 10:00 am
Hal Jordan: Red Lantern - 1,500 pieces available

What say you, Lantern fans? If the numbers (and fan tendencies) are any indication, getting a full set will certainly be some fierce competition.

IGN has a cool interview up with DC Direct’s Georg Brewer, about what sorts of figures will be coming out during the upcoming Green Lantern megaevent, Blackest Night. A highlight:

I always love when we work on project with Geoff. Not only is he a great storyteller, but he is a huge toy collector as well, so his insight and participation always makes things better. We run as much by him as is practical, from selecting the figures, to writing the copy, and he is a great collaborator. Out of our brainstorming sessions sometimes cool ideas come up that he then can support or play with in the story as it unfolds.

I found that to be particularly interesting — that the toys and licensed products might actually give back to the story side of the equation. But then again, I’ve heard of editors and artists occasionally looking at toys and statues for reference (because seriously, how many of us know how to draw ’80s Nightwing’s back without reference?), so maybe I’ve just been underestimating toys all this time!

In addition, Brewer announced the list for the upcoming waves of figures that will come out soon:

Wave #1
- Black Lantern Earth-2 Superman 6.5″
- Alpha Lantern Boodika with removable face plate 6.75″
- Blue Lantern Saint Walker with power battery 7.5″
- Atrocitus with power battery 7.25″

Wave #2
- Black Lantern Martian Manhunter 7″
- Green Lantern John Stewart with power battery 6.75″
- Indigo with Power battery 7″
- Kryb with removable back cage that stores 2 alien children 7″

Wave #3
- Black Lantern Aquaman 6.75″
- Green Lantern Arisia with power battery 6.5″
- Star Sapphire with power battery 6.625″
- Larfleeze The Orange Lantern with Glomulus and power battery 7″ GLOMULUS is 2.375″

Wave #4
- Black Lantern Firestorm 6.75″ to top of head (helmet increases height)
- Green Lantern Kyle Rayner with power battery 6.75″
- Black Hand with Batman skull 6.75″
- Wonder Woman 6.625″ to top of head (hair increases height)

Brewer mentioned that figures for Hal Jordan and Sinestro would not be forthcoming, only because they have had their own figures released fairly recently.

Mez-itz 6″ rotocast vinyl collectibles that are cool by design.

seriesOne of Mezco’s designer vinyl line presents Hellboy & Abe Sapian. These figures, based on the character designs from the film Hellboy 2:The Golden Army unleash the potential of the Mez-itz designer figures. Applying the essence of these dynamic heroes onto the canvas like Mezitz vinyl Mezco produces something exciting and original.

These two figures are exclusive to Toys R Us and ToysRus.com.
They can be purchased at

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3684540

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3684541

or at your local Toys R Us retail location.

We have to go back — to the toy store!

Bif Bang Pow! has announced it will be unveiling a line of Lost action figures and bobble heads at the San Diego Comic Con.

At the Entertainment Earth booth, you can have your very own Benjamin Linus bobble head, at $17 including tax!

“The twists, turns, and multiple threads that characterize Lost give rise to a host of distinctive and unforgettable characters. These characters lend themselves to the creation of unique figures and accessories that have terrific fan appeal and serve to memorialize this exceptional TV series,” said Jason Lenzi, CEO of Bif Bang Pow! in a written statement. “We’re thrilled to be bringing new bobble heads and poseable action figures to market in the vein of what Bif Bang Pow! has done with licenses in the past. As always with Lost and Bif Bang Pow!, expect the unexpected!”

This figure will be a Comic Con exclusive, limited to only 1,008 copies.

Via Topless Robot, this hilarious video from College Humor:

IDW has posted on their blog that Linkin Park has released a video for “New Divide,” the theme for the upcoming film Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Linkin Park – “New Divide”

The soundtrack will be available in stores on June 23rd.

Marvel has announced that Activision has released a fun online minigame for those who just can’t wait to get your Civil War on!

With Civil War Online, you can put together teams of four heroes, to play on an online board, with the outcome of these individual battles being tallied out for a global count. Based on my current count, it’s looking like the Anti-Registration heroes are enjoying a lead of about 23.

This will reflect at least some of the storyline for the upcoming game Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2: Fusion, which will chronicle the struggle between Captain America and Iron Man over the Superhuman Registration Act. This next-gen systems game is due out in the fall.

Abe Sapien, the psychic humanoid amphibious paranormal investigator of Hellboy fame, gets the deluxe treatment with this super-sized figure. Standing a towering eighteen inches tall, this Abe Sapien is faithful to the design of Abe as seen in Hellboy 2:The Golden Army. Abe features fifteen points of articulation, removable goggles, and removable breathing apparatus.

Abe will be available at San Diego Comic Con in July 2009 or through Mezco Direct at
http://www.mezcotoyz.com/store/detail.aspx?ID=728

Abe Sapien photos by Jason Jerde.