In the ever-expanding universe of Dungeons and Dragons collectibles, NECA throws down the gauntlet with its 50th Anniversary Warduke figure, and boy, does it stir up the dungeon dust in the toy chest! This isn’t just any action figure; it’s a nostalgia-laden trip back to the days when D&D ruled the roost, and Warduke was the villain we loved to hate.
Now, NECA has a knack for breathing life into pop culture icons, but with Warduke, they’ve outdone themselves. The figure, standing proud at 7 inches, not only honors the villain’s menacing aura but also gives it a modern twist with a retro paint job that screams ’80s chic without the shoulder pads. The inclusion of a new longsword, complete with a green flame effect, is like the cherry on top of a very dark and brooding sundae.
What tickles my collector’s bone, though, is the throwback to the original Warduke figure from the early ’80s. Having a piece of that era today, reimagined with today’s craftsmanship, is like holding a piece of D&D history in your hands. It’s a tangible link to the past, reminding us of the days when flipping through Monster Manuals and plotting dungeon crawls was the highlight of our week.
Priced at a cool $29.99, NECA’s Warduke isn’t just a figure; it’s an investment in nostalgia. And for someone who missed the original toyline boat, this release is a chance to own a piece of the legend. The figure’s availability at Walmart Collector Con and soon on various platforms means it’s ready to invade collections far and wide.
The original figure
Reflecting on the original figure, it’s clear how much toy manufacturing has evolved. The detail, the articulation, and the accessories available now would have been unimaginable back in the day. Yet, there’s something utterly charming about those early figures, with their less complex paint jobs and simpler designs. They were a product of their time, much like this new Warduke is a mirror to our current love for retro revisitations and high-quality collectibles.
In sum, NECA’s 50th Anniversary Warduke is more than just another action figure; it’s a bridge between past and present D&D enthusiasts, a testament to the enduring appeal of a game that has captivated imaginations for decades. It’s a must-have for collectors, a nod to the veterans, and a welcome to newcomers eager to dive into the rich lore of Dungeons and Dragons.