It's time for Wave 2 of an action figure series that I just learned about, and it looks like Wave 3 is coming soon (figures will include: Hercules, Ulysseus, The Cyclops, Grym and other bonus figures and accessories). We are talking about Zoloworld's original series Realm of the Underworld of course. We prepared a little video for your viewing pleasure:
These figures measure 5 3/4" and are not after the blockbuster bucks, they are after the hearts of those who grew up with figures that offered more than references to the box office. They are a "fantasy series" of characters that are certainly gaining traction, especially from our own neck o' the woods.
There are a few things that make these guys (and hopefully gals in Wave 4) stand out. First they are atypical of what is in the general marketplace - which grabs my attention immediately. Second, they have strong, sturdy sculpts and harken to another era, and I'm not just talking about Mego and Kenner, I mean before that. There is something quintessentially nostalgic and retro about thes e- but it's something you can't quite nail down right away. But my guess is it is the most essential thing that makes these tick, interchangeability. I love that they take cues from lines like Diamond Select's Minimates and even Lego. So, the unexplainable is the fun factor here. That's it..they are bringing fun back to action figures!
Something here reminds me of playing with the original Planet of the Apes set of yore. There's something about pulling these from the well designed, carded blister pack to a soft touch plastic that delights you. And the ball socket leg joints are sweet on these figures, they move so smoothly.
In terms of greater articulation, these are a little limited as only the legs and arms move in one place and the heads move (not as easily as the legs). That's about it. The arms and hands do not swivel at all - so if you are going for dynamic selfies with your "Realm" it's going to take some work. That said, they are quite handsome and stout. And the facial expressions on both Preytus and Ky-Sis are fitting for their characters...though I'd love a few extra heads for different situational emotions.
The biggest bummer was the red shield that comes with Kry-Sis as it didn't quite go in either hand in any position I tried. I didn't try it on Preytus, but I did switch out legs and arms on both and it worked quite well as long as you don't get Preytus' cloak stuck in the arm peg. There are a few nice flourishes with paint on both figures as mentioned int he video, as well as a cool fine "crack" in Preytus' chest plate. It's finer details like this that make this a line to look into more closey.
Oh, yes and certain parts (body and accessories) glow-in-the-dark. And who doesn't love a good glow? The "bone bashing" accessories are nice and fit rightly in either characters' left hand. The other hand on Kry-Sis is a bit more open.
And finally, there is the "Battle Accessory Pack" which includes a few arms and a few legs, a thin red plastic-y cape (which I apologize for not trying out), and a nice mallet and another Viking-like weapon. Also included is a furry looking cape/vest and boot warmers in the same material. It shed all over my counter top and offered a sense of rabbit fur realness. It's packs like these that make this a must-have for any collector of unusual action figures.
RATING
Paint: 7/10
Sculpt: 8.5/10
Articulation: 7/10
Packaging/Design: 8/10
These figures come recommended, and are really best for adult collectors, or for teens who aren't gonna eat the small parts! ;)