by TJ Norris Magic the Gathering is one of the most popular and widely played trading card games in the world. Created by Richard Garfield and released in the latter 90’s the game boasts over 12M players worldwide. The game can be played from two players up, from local comic shops to massive championships. Magic has countless complex rules, and can be interpreted deeply by some with aspects of role-playing games, but overall draws a vast community of collectors and avid players. An addictive card game (there is an online version as well) that has so many variables and worlds of wonderment. Some rare cards are worth upwards of thousands of dollars!
Go Figure is honored to have been asked to review the new Magic the Gathering (Series 2) Funko Pop! vinyl figures (brought to you by Entertainment Earth). This is one fine set. Funko, at this point, seems to have been the exclusive toymaker to license these wonderful characters for both this and their Legacy Collection (in cooperation with Gentle Giant) which became available in late Summer. Released back in April, the first series included six figures (with three that has exclusives developed). Included were Planeswalkers Jace Beleren, Garruk Wildspeaker, Chandra Nalaar, Liliana Vess, Ajani Goldmane, and Nissa Revane. In the spirit of their upcoming release of the Fate Reforged deck, we take a closer look at a handful of the new half-dozen (with the exception of the Super Sized 6” shiny green dragon, Nicol Bolas). These are all instock and available now from Entertainment Earth, and we recommend those interested to most definitely Collect ‘Em All, here’s why….
Elspeth Tirel (Planeswalker, White Mana)
This figure has immediate presence. With a slight nod to the sculpt of the Assassin’s Creed figures - this cloaked lady shimmers in precious metals, wielding a sword/dagger. Decked out in strapped sandal/boots in shiny silver with gold accents she stands fearless, with just a tiny waft of auburn tresses from a golden bandana. Her breastplate and utilikilt bare Egyptian-like motifs without going there. Her look is open and youthful.
Sarkhan Vol (Red Planeswalker, from Tarkir)
This former soldier, now general stands out powerfully among the entire Pop! line for attention to so many details. His shoulder length hair is black as squid ink enhancing his stare. From his noggin grows a skinny beard/gotee beaded neatly, all in black, and repeating the birdlike brows that flow perfectly in the design. His outfit is partly armor, but mostly a plated apron-like kilt studded with silver squares and a camouflaged dagger. The neutral colors play well of his sturdy torso. He holds a large protective weapon that is a cross between a sword and a jagged knife with a nice teal totem like accent. Fierce.
Gideon Jura (Planeswalker, former Order of Heliud)
With his signature 3-bladed whip this figure is outstanding with a few surprises. The main surprise is that the figure appears as of African descent, which somehow enhances his overall stealthy look. He sports a Wolverine-like sideburn that travels to his locks, stark black. In powerful contrast is his armor and boots in a cool ice blue metallic in gold and copper accents. Carrying a shield this guy is to be reckoned with. His armor shows off many pecs and his lower arms are wrapped with metallic wristlets. From the armor hangs a loincloth fabric-like swatch in varying blue tones. This is a figure to own, even if you don’t play the game.
Kiora Atua (Blue/Green Merfolk Planeswalker, born Zendikar)
This character (and figure) is of the sea, and it shows! Topped with a violet-blue fin-like headpiece, this is a really unique sculpt and overall figure in the Funko line. With Spock-like ears and an outfit that marries a bikini with a tribal native look the overall appeal is warrior water creature. The costumery in a smoky pink contrasts perfectly with the bright light blue flesh, barefoot and all. This figure does not come with an additional accessory, though she’s the coolest blue thing ever.
Tezzeret (Male, Human Planeswalker from Tidehollow)
Last but best, this is probably the most interesting sculpt to any Pop! ever made. With outer and inner portions revealed he is skeletal splendor. Donning a coiffe, a mountain of gray cornrows pinned back with a matching bat-shaped got and boomerangs for eyebrows, this guy is stellar. His ribcage, and other bones, partly exposed, draw your attention instantly. With cartilage-red accents and swirly bits from the chest to the midsection, the sculptor had their work, literally cut-out for themselves. With one hand in a fist of rage and the other birdclaw-like I would not want to mess around with this guy. The overall color scheme is in muted cool blues and purples with so much movement throughout - and even with all that going on he stands firmly in place. If you only get one from this series (how could you?), this is the one to get.
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