Introduction to NECA Action Figures
The action figure market is vast, filled with various brands competing for the attention of collectors and enthusiasts. Among these brands, NECA (National Entertainment Collectibles Association) stands out. NECA is renowned for its high-quality, hyper-realistic action figures. The company produces figures that span a variety of genres, including horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and more. NECA action figures captivate collectors with their incredible detail, articulation, and fidelity to the source material.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about NECA action figures. We will delve into the company’s history, key features, types of figures they produce, and the benefits of collecting them. By understanding these elements, you can appreciate the artistry behind NECA action figures and make informed decisions when adding to your collection.
The History of NECA
Early Beginnings
NECA was founded in 1996 by Joel Weinshanker. Initially, the company focused on producing collectibles and merchandise based on popular movies, TV shows, and video games. The market was already crowded, but NECA quickly distinguished itself through its commitment to quality and detail.
Licensing Agreements: One of NECA’s early strategies was to secure licensing agreements with major film studios, TV networks, and video game developers. These agreements allowed NECA to produce merchandise based on some of the most beloved franchises in entertainment history.
First Products: NECA’s first products were primarily bobbleheads and resin statues. Although these items were well-received, it became clear that the market for action figures was burgeoning. NECA decided to venture into this space, leveraging its licensing agreements and attention to detail to produce figures that would set new standards for quality.
Growth and Expansion
Throughout the early 2000s, NECA expanded its product offerings and continued to secure licenses from some of the most iconic franchises in pop culture.
Success Stories: NECA’s line of horror action figures, based on franchises like “Friday the 13th,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” and “Halloween,” became immensely popular. These figures were notable for their likeness to the characters, intricate details, and high levels of articulation.
Expanding Genres: NECA did not limit itself to horror. The company produced action figures based on science fiction and fantasy franchises like “Aliens,” “Predator,” and “Terminator.” NECA also ventured into video game territory, producing collectibles for games like “BioShock,” “Street Fighter,” and “Resident Evil.”
Quality and Detail: NECA’s commitment to quality and detail set it apart from competitors. Each figure was meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the character it represented. This approach garnered a loyal fanbase and established NECA as a leader in the action figure market.
Modern Era
Today, NECA continues to be a dominant force in the collectible action figure market. The company’s product lines have grown to include figures from a wide array of genres, and its commitment to quality remains unwavering.
Ongoing Innovation: NECA continually innovates in terms of articulation, accessories, and packaging. The company listens to feedback from its fanbase to improve its products continually.
Digital Sculpting: Advances in technology have allowed NECA to use digital sculpting techniques to create even more accurate and detailed figures. This technology ensures that each figure is as true to the source material as possible.
Limited Editions and Exclusives: NECA frequently releases limited edition figures and convention exclusives. These products are highly sought after by collectors, adding an element of rarity and exclusivity to their collections.
Key Features of NECA Action Figures
NECA action figures are celebrated for several key features that set them apart from other collectibles on the market. Understanding these features will help you appreciate why NECA is regarded so highly among collectors.
Hyper-Realistic Sculpting
One of the most striking features of NECA action figures is their hyper-realistic sculpting. NECA takes great pride in ensuring that each figure is an accurate representation of the character it is based on.
Attention to Detail: NECA employs skilled sculptors who meticulously craft each figure to capture intricate details. From facial expressions to clothing textures, every aspect of the character is carefully recreated. This attention to detail ensures that the figures look like they have stepped right out of the screen and into your hands.
Digital Sculpting Technology: NECA uses cutting-edge digital sculpting technology to achieve a high level of precision. This technology allows for finer details and more accurate likenesses, resulting in figures that are almost lifelike in their appearance.
Likeness to Actors: For figures based on live-action characters, NECA strives to achieve a likeness to the actors who portray them. This dedication to capturing the essence of the characters adds an extra layer of authenticity to the figures.
High Level of Articulation
Articulation is a crucial aspect of action figures, as it allows for dynamic posing and increased playability. NECA action figures are known for their high levels of articulation, enabling collectors to pose them in a variety of ways.
Multiple Articulation Points: NECA figures typically feature multiple points of articulation, including ball joints, hinges, and swivels. This range of motion allows for more dynamic and lifelike poses.
Posability: The high level of articulation ensures that figures can be posed in various action stances, mimicking iconic scenes from movies, TV shows, or video games. This posability adds to the display value of the figures, making them stand out in any collection.
Stability: Despite the numerous points of articulation, NECA figures are designed to be stable. The joints are engineered to hold poses securely, preventing the figures from toppling over easily.
Intricate Paint Applications
The paint application on NECA action figures is another key feature that sets them apart. The intricate paintwork adds depth and realism to the figures.
Detailed Paint Jobs: NECA employs skilled painters who apply detailed paint jobs to each figure. These paint applications include weathering, shading, and highlighting to enhance the overall appearance of the figures.
Accuracy: NECA strives for color accuracy, ensuring that the figures match their on-screen counterparts. This attention to detail includes accurate skin tones, costume colors, and even tiny details like tattoos or scars.
Durability: NECA uses high-quality paints that are designed to be durable and long-lasting. This ensures that the figures maintain their vibrant appearance even after years of display.
Variety of Accessories
NECA action figures often come with a variety of accessories, enhancing their playability and display options. These accessories add value to the figures and allow for more dynamic displays.
Interchangeable Hands and Heads: Many NECA figures come with interchangeable hands and heads, allowing collectors to customize the figures’ appearances. This feature enables more dynamic posing and scene recreation.
Weapons and Props: NECA includes weapons and props that are relevant to the characters. These accessories are often intricately detailed and accurate to the source material, adding to the overall realism of the figures.
Display Stands: Some NECA figures come with display stands, providing a stable base for posing and displaying the figures. This feature is particularly useful for figures with more dynamic or intricate poses.
Quality Packaging
The packaging of NECA action figures is designed to protect the figures and enhance their display value. Collectors often appreciate the thought and effort that goes into the packaging design.
Collector-Friendly Packaging: NECA uses collector-friendly packaging that is easy to open and reseal. This feature allows collectors to remove the figures for display and then return them to the packaging if desired.
Themed Designs: The packaging often features themed designs that match the franchise the figure is based on. These designs include artwork, logos, and other elements that enhance the overall presentation of the figures.
Window Boxes: Many NECA figures come in window boxes, allowing collectors to view the figures without opening the packaging. This feature is particularly appealing for mint-in-box collectors who prefer to keep the figures in their original packaging.
Types of NECA Action Figures
NECA produces a wide range of action figures, catering to various interests and fandoms. Here are some of the most popular types of NECA action figures:
Horror Action Figures
NECA’s horror action figures are immensely popular among collectors. These figures are based on iconic horror franchises and characters that have left a lasting impact on pop culture.
“Friday the 13th” Series: NECA’s Jason Voorhees figures are a staple in any horror collection. These figures capture the menacing presence of the iconic slasher, complete with his signature hockey mask and weapons.
“A Nightmare on Elm Street” Series: NECA’s Freddy Krueger figures are highly detailed, capturing the terrifying essence of the dream-invading villain. These figures often come with interchangeable heads and accessories, allowing for various display options.
“Halloween” Series: NECA’s Michael Myers figures are known for their high level of detail and accuracy. These figures often come with iconic accessories, such as Myers’ signature knife, enhancing their display value.
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Action Figures
NECA’s sci-fi and fantasy figures appeal to fans of classic and modern genres, offering a diverse range of characters and creatures.
“Aliens” Series: NECA’s Xenomorph figures are highly detailed, capturing the terrifying anatomy of the iconic alien species. These figures often come with accessories, such as facehuggers and chestbursters, adding to their display value.
“Predator” Series: NECA’s Predator figures are going to know for their intricate armor and weaponry. These figures capture the fierce and deadly nature of the alien hunters, complete with interchangeable hands, heads, and weapons.
“Terminator” Series: NECA’s Terminator figures are based on the iconic characters from the movie franchise. These figures capture the rugged and mechanical essence of the Terminators, often including multiple accessories and heads for different display options.
Video Game Action Figures
NECA has also ventured into the video game realm, producing figures based on popular video game characters and franchises.
“BioShock” Series: NECA’s Big Daddy and Little Sister figures are highly detailed, capturing the eerie and atmospheric essence of the game. These figures often come with interchangeable parts and accessories, enhancing their display value.
“Street Fighter” Series: NECA’s Street Fighter figures capture the likeness of the iconic characters from the fighting game series. These figures often come with multiple hands and accessories, allowing for dynamic posing and display options.
“Resident Evil” Series: NECA’s Resident Evil figures are based on the characters and creatures from the survival horror game franchise. These figures capture the tense and terrifying atmosphere of the games, often including multiple accessories and interchangeable parts.
Movie and TV Action Figures
NECA’s movie and TV action figures are based on iconic characters from classic and modern films and TV shows. These figures appeal to fans of various genres and franchises.
“Back to the Future” Series: NECA’s Back to the Future figures capture the likeness of the iconic characters from the film trilogy. These figures often come with accessories, such as Marty McFly’s guitar and Doc Brown’s gadgets, enhancing their display value.
“Gremlins” Series: NECA’s Gremlins figures capture the mischievous and quirky nature of the creatures from the film series. These figures often come with interchangeable parts and accessories, allowing for various display options.
“The Boys” Series: NECA’s figures based on the characters from the popular TV show “The Boys” capture the dark and gritty essence of the series. These figures often include multiple accessories and interchangeable heads, enhancing their playability and display value.
Benefits of Collecting NECA Action Figures
Collecting NECA action figures offers numerous benefits, making it a rewarding hobby for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Here are some of the key advantages:
High-Quality Collectibles
One of the primary benefits of collecting NECA action figures is their high quality. Each figure is meticulously crafted to capture the essence of the character, ensuring collectors receive a product that is both accurate and detailed.
Superior Craftsmanship: NECA employs skilled sculptors and painters to create each figure. This dedication to craftsmanship results in highly detailed and lifelike collectibles that stand out in any collection.
Durable Construction: NECA uses high-quality materials to ensure the figures are durable and long-lasting. This durability ensures that the figures maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time.
Attention to Detail: NECA’s commitment to detail is evident in every aspect of their figures, from the sculpting to the paint application. This attention to detail enhances the overall quality and appeal of the collectibles.
Wide Range of Characters and Franchises
NECA’s diverse range of figures spans various genres and franchises, offering something for every collector.
Iconic Characters: NECA produces figures based on some of the most iconic characters in pop culture. These figures appeal to fans of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, video games, and more, ensuring there is a NECA figure for every interest.
Expansive Franchises: NECA’s licensing agreements allow them to produce figures from a wide range of franchises. Whether you are a fan of classic horror films or modern sci-fi series, NECA has something to offer.
Expanding Catalog: NECA continually expands its catalog, introducing new figures and characters regularly. This constant growth ensures that collectors always have something new to look forward to.
Enhanced Display Value
NECA action figures are going to design to be going to display, offering high visual appeal and enhancing the look of any collection.
Dynamic Posing: The high level of articulation in NECA figures allows for dynamic posing, making them more visually interesting when displayed. Collectors can recreate iconic scenes or create unique poses to showcase the figures.
Accessories and Props: NECA includes a variety of accessories and props with their figures, adding to their display value. These accessories allow for more detailed and immersive displays, enhancing the overall presentation of the figures.
Collector-Friendly Packaging: NECA’s packaging is going to design to be display-friendly, featuring themed artwork and window boxes. Collectors can choose to display the figures in their packaging or remove them for more dynamic displays.
Community and Networking
Collecting NECA action figures offers an opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded enthusiasts and collectors.
Online Forums and Groups: There are numerous online forums and groups dedicated to NECA collectors. These communities provide a platform to share collections, discuss figures, and exchange tips and information.
Conventions and Events: NECA often participates in conventions and events, offering collectors an opportunity to meet the creators, purchase exclusive figures, and connect with other fans. These events are a great way to immerse yourself in the hobby and build connections.
Social Media: Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer a space for collectors to showcase their collections, follow NECA updates, and interact with other fans. This online presence helps to build a sense of community and engagement.
Investment Potential
Collecting NECA action figures can also offer investment potential, as certain figures may increase in value over time.
Limited Editions: NECA frequently releases limited edition figures and convention exclusives. These figures are often going to produce in limited quantities, making them highly sought after by collectors. The rarity of these figures can lead to increased value over time.
Collector’s Market: The collector’s market for NECA figures is robust, with fans constantly seeking to complete their collections. This demand can drive up the value of certain figures, especially those that are hard to find.
Resale Value: NECA figures that are going to well-maintain and kept in their original packaging can retain or increase their resale value. This aspect makes collecting NECA figures a potentially lucrative investment for enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right NECA Action Figures
Choosing the right NECA action figures involves considering several key factors. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Identify Your Interests
The first step in choosing the right NECA action figures is to identify your interests and preferences.
Franchises and Characters: Consider which franchises and characters you are most passionate about. Whether you are a fan of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, or video games, NECA offers figures from a wide range of genres and franchises.
Collecting Goals: Determine your collecting goals. Are you looking to complete a specific series or focus on a particular genre? Having clear goals will help you make more focused and satisfying choices.
Personal Enjoyment: Choose figures that you personally enjoy and appreciate. Collecting should be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, so select figures that resonate with your interests and preferences.
Evaluate Key Features
Understanding the key features of NECA action figures will help you choose the best options for your collection.
Detail and Accuracy: Look for figures with high levels of detail and accuracy. NECA is going to know for its hyper-realistic sculpting and intricate paint applications, so choose figures that capture the essence of the characters.
Articulation: Consider the level of articulation in the figures. Higher levels of articulation allow for more dynamic posing and enhance the playability and display value of the figures.
Accessories: Check for figures that come with a variety of accessories and interchangeable parts. These extras add value to the figures and allow for more customization and display options.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality and appeal of NECA action figures.
Quality and Craftsmanship: Pay attention to reviews that highlight the quality and craftsmanship of the figures. Look for feedback on the detail, articulation, and overall appearance.
Collector’s Satisfaction: Consider reviews that discuss the satisfaction of collectors. Look for feedback on the value, display appeal, and overall enjoyment of the figures.
Durability and Longevity: Check for reviews that mention the durability and longevity of the figures. Well-made figures should maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time.
Budget Considerations
NECA action figures come in various price ranges, so consider your budget when making a decision.
High-End Models: Premium NECA figures with advanced features and limited editions may come at a higher price. These models are ideal for collectors who value detail and exclusivity.
Mid-Range Options: Mid-range NECA figures offer excellent value for money, providing high levels of detail and articulation at an affordable price point.
Budget-Friendly Options: Budget-friendly NECA figures provide essential features and quality at a lower price. These models are suitable for casual collectors or those on a tight budget.
Stay Updated on Releases
NECA frequently releases new figures, so stay updated on their latest announcements and releases.
Official Website: Visit NECA’s official website regularly for updates on new figures, limited editions, and convention exclusives. The website is a reliable source for accurate information.
Social Media: Follow NECA on social media platforms to stay informed about new releases, promotions, and events. Social media allows you to engage with the brand and other collectors.
Collectors’ Forums: Join online forums and groups dedicated to NECA collectors. These communities often share news and updates about upcoming releases, providing valuable insights.
Conclusion
NECA action figures offer a blend of high-quality craftsmanship, diverse characters, and enhanced display value, making them a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts. From hyper-realistic sculpting to intricate paint applications, NECA’s commitment to detail sets its figures apart in the collectible market.
Understanding the history, key features, types, and benefits of NECA action figures allows you to appreciate the artistry behind them and make informed decisions for your collection. By identifying your interests, evaluating key features, reading reviews, and keeping budget considerations in mind, you can choose NECA figures that deliver exceptional value and enjoyment.
