Best of Toy Fair: Cool Collectibles That Are Actually Useful
VARUNI SINHA
The Toy Insider: February 25th, 2016
While Batman and Superman are always ready to save the world from one big baddie or another, new evidence suggests that crime may be on the decline. Instead, our trusted heroes are turning their focus to helping us when we really need it: springing to life when our iPhones die, leaping into action when our tummies are rumbling for a sandwich, and swooping down with gloves off when we’ve got an itch we just can’t quite reach.
At the 113th annual North American International Toy Fair, tons of incredibly detailed action figures and statues of pop-culture icons were on display, but some collectibles do more than just look great. From geeky grill accessories, to nerdy key holders, these collectibles take charge of hardcore domestic responsibility in a gallant way—and they look great doing it. With these new products, it’s not who they are, but what they do that defines them.
Finders Keypers (Elephant Gun)
No matter how many times we try to keep keys in the right place, they always manage to get back in jeopardy again. Finders Keypers are the solution. These detailed action figures are not only designed to serve as incredible collectibles, but also as keepers for keys. Finders Keepers Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Batmobile are the latest in this line, just in time for the upcoming Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice film.
Star Wars USB Car Chargers (ThinkGeek)
Think of BB-8’s chirpy whistle or Darth Vader’s asthmatic breathing next time phones near you run out of battery. ThinkGeek’s USB Car Chargers feature these two iconic characters complete with lights and sounds. The BB-8 USB Car Charger will spin its head around and make beeping sounds, just like the real Droid; while Vader will hiss and puff. Both will easily plug into a 12V vehicle power adapter, and come this spring, they’ll be ready to lend some force to any dying phones in your care.
Harley Quinn Drinkware and Bar Accessories (Cryptozoic Entertainment)
Life isn’t easy. Trust me, superheroes–and villains—know that really well! After an exhausting day of backbreaking work you might need a cool drink to take it easy. Allow the DC Comics Harley Quinn Bottle Opener to pop your top and kick things off. This cool collectible, along with the DC Comics Harley Quinn’s Mallet Corkscrew, and Harley Quinn Glass Charm will be pleased to meetcha this year!
Star Wars Pouch Sandwich Shaper ( Kotobukiya )
Star Wars Pouch Sandwich Shapers will send your hunger packing with the new BB-8, Stormtrooper, and Millennium Falcon, now included in this popular line-up from Kotobukiya. This easy-to-use equipment will stamp your sandwich with a fun character or vehicle mark, keeping the force strong. Compact and light, they’re great for picnics, parties, and everyday lunches. Plus, the Luke Walker and Kylo Ren Lightsaber Chopsticks, and a Silicone Ice Tray are extra treats to look out for this year!
Superman and Batman Leg Lamps (NECA Toys)
The Superman Leg Lamp and Batman Leg Lamp stand 20-inches tall, serving as a bedside lamps, looking after their fans at night. I can’t guarantee if they’ll keep bad dreams away, but their dashing, young looks can keep some up, up, and awake. Both lamps feature classic Superman and Batman art to add a heroic glow to your room. Each lamp comes with a 10-inch shade, and light-up with a 40 Watt bulb (not included).
Game of Thrones Dragon Egg Bookends (Dark Horse)
Game of Thrones Dragon Egg Bookends, from Dark Horse, will guard your books like a true Targaryen. Covered in scales just like Daenerys Targaryens’ magical eggs in the TV series, they serve as statuesque collectibles and also help organize books by saving them from falling off the shelf. Each egg stands 7 inches tall on its decorative base. Retailing at $149.99, they’ll be ready to scorch the shelves in March.
Star Wars Grilling Tools (Underground Toys)
May the force be with you while you grill. Be it the Death Star BBQ, the Darth Vader Lightsaber BBQ Tongs, the Yoda Lightsaber BBQ Tongs, the Darth Vader Oven Glove Twin Pack, the Millennium Falcon Spatula, or the Death Star Kitchen Timer, these toys are no child’s play for a Star Wars connoisseur.
