McFarlane Toys’ DC Multiverse Commander Steel Gold Label Action Figure – A Closer Look

So, McFarlane Toys has dropped another gem in their DC Multiverse Gold Label series: Commander Steel. This 7-inch figure is a Target exclusive, part of McFarlane’s Gold Label collection. As with most of these releases, the attention to detail on this figure is sharp, and Commander Steel fans will be thrilled. Let’s dive in with a quirky breakdown and my thoughts!

First Impressions: Commander Steel’s Armoured Brilliance

When you first lay eyes on this Commander Steel Gold Label figure, one thing is clear: it’s packed with McFarlane’s signature detail and craftsmanship. The metallic sheen on his armour is bold, reminiscent of his comic book counterpart, and there’s a real sense of heft and durability to the sculpt, just from the photos. McFarlane’s known for nailing down intricate details, and this figure is no exception. The sharp edges of the armour, combined with the intricate paneling, make this a standout piece in the DC Multiverse lineup.

The articulation looks on point for dynamic poses, with all the usual swivel and hinge joints you’d expect from McFarlane’s recent figures. There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from seeing a well-done metallic finish, and Commander Steel delivers that in spades – perfect for recreating those superhero landing poses!

If you’re into other McFarlane Gold Label releases, you might want to check out the Sinestro Parallax Armour Gold Label figure too. Both figures represent key characters, and Sinestro’s Parallax form has that same attention to intricate detailing.

Packaging and Accessories – The Extras That Matter

Commander Steel doesn’t come alone. Packed inside that McFarlane window box, you’ll find the standard display stand and trading card, staples in any McFarlane collector’s arsenal. The packaging is sleek, with a large viewing window showcasing the figure in all its glory. For inbox collectors, this is a solid display piece.

Unfortunately, from the photos, it doesn’t seem like he comes with any additional weapons or gadgets. Given the character’s history as a combat-ready, armoured hero, it would’ve been cool to see some extra gear, like maybe a shield or sword, to reflect his military roots. But for what it’s worth, the figure’s sculpt and paintwork are the stars here.

Who Is Commander Steel in DC Comics?

For those unfamiliar with the DC Comics history of Commander Steel, here’s a quick rundown. The character, first introduced in 1978, is the alter ego of Henry Heywood, a World War II-era hero who became a super-soldier through surgical enhancements. Henry Heywood was given steel-like skin and enhanced strength, which he used to fight against the forces of evil. Throughout DC’s history, he’s been reimagined in several forms, including his grandson, also named Henry, who takes up the mantle during the Justice League Detroit era.

One of the more recent versions, from DC’s Prime Earth continuity, has him as a member of the Justice Society of America (JSA). The JSA connection gives Commander Steel a storied legacy, often being portrayed as a patriotic warrior who embodies the ideals of justice and heroism – think Captain America, but with a much shinier wardrobe.

Thoughts on the Figure Design

From a design perspective, McFarlane has done a fantastic job of balancing comic-book accuracy with modern aesthetics. The gold accents, especially in the chest emblem and shoulder plates, pop nicely against the darker blue of his suit. The figure’s sculpt feels like it respects Commander Steel’s military roots while giving him a contemporary edge that fits right in with the other DC Multiverse releases. This contrasts well with the more cosmic, armour-heavy figures like Effigy Platinum Edition, which I recently reviewed.

The main highlight for me, though, is the figure’s face sculpt. There’s a subtle, determined expression that perfectly captures Commander Steel’s steadfast nature, ready for battle. It’s that balance between retro and modern that makes this figure worth considering, whether you’re a fan of DC Comics history or just love well-designed toys.

The Verdict

If you’re a collector of McFarlane’s DC Multiverse figures or a fan of deep-cut characters like Commander Steel, this Gold Label edition is worth adding to your collection. The design is solid, the articulation is versatile, and the detailing is exactly what you’d expect from McFarlane. Sure, some extra accessories would have been the cherry on top, but the figure more than makes up for it with its imposing look and build quality.

For fans of DC’s golden oldies like the Justice Society, or anyone who just enjoys an action figure that feels hefty and battle-ready, this Commander Steel is a must-have. And keep an eye out for more Gold Label exclusives like the Sinestro Parallax Armour – it’s shaping up to be another excellent entry in the DC Multiverse series.