Despite unbearably cold temperatures, the 2016 New York Toy Fair went off without a hitch this weekend, as toys and collectibles invaded the Javits Center and fans clamored for a wealth of new geek merchandise.
Across the convention, Marvel and DC set up their familiar rivalry, with retailers pushing hard to market figurines celebrating Marvel’s upcoming Captain America: Civil War and DC’s Batman v. Superman. Even drones got in on the action.
Geek franchises ruled over every part of the industry, from Sphero’s triumphant BB-8 display to the huge Funko gallery on the first level. Many figurines were announced just before the convention, with DC Collectibles, Hot Toys, and Diamond Select Toys leading the pack. McFarlane Toys also made a splash with its new Walking Dead and Five Nights at Freddy’s lineup.
But for us, the highlight was undoubtedly Kotobukiya‘s booth, where new figurines ranging from Star Wars characters to Spider-Gwen dazzled the eye.
Star Wars figures reigned, as did Deadpool, Lady Deadpool, and Spider-Gwen.
Aja Romano
DC Comics had its moment as well.
Aja Romano
The rest of the Marvel universe was also in abundant supply.
Aja Romano
The Japanese company also went a little quirky with these Star Wars boiled egg molds and BB-8 ice trays.
Aja Romano
Aja Romano
Another Japanese dealer that stole our attention was Tamashii Nation, with its sleek First Order models.
Aja Romano
Remember Samurai Darth Vader and his troops? He showed up as well.
Aja Romano
Also on offer was a smorgasbord of geeky delights as well as anime favorites like Naruto, Dragon Ball Z, and Sailor Moon.
Aja Romano
Not to be outdone, Diamond also had its share of gorgeous anime and other offerings on display, including DBZ, Love Live, and One Piece.
Aja Romano
Nice effort, Diamond, but we still think Japan is currently “winning” this year’s Toy Fair—which means, of course, we all win.
Photo by Aja Romano