Spider-man 3 toys and collectibles

If you haven’t been watching television the past few days, you might have missed out on the big news that Saturday, March 24, 2007 was the official day for release of Spider-man 3 movie product. Hasbro, who has now taken over the reigns of producing Marvel toys, made sure to let us know by making an entertaining animated commercial with several of the new Spider-man toys (including Spider-Spud and Spi-dog) racing to their local toy store.

If Saturday morning was any indication, collectors have a bone to pick with Hasbro. Not one person was waiting at the doors to get into Toys R Us to purchase the new product. Hasbro is used to a bigger turnout for something so popular, but I guess us Star Wars fans are the only really crazy ones willing to stand in line for toys. They did however out-do themselves with the great visual displays. The giant cutouts of Spidey, Sandman, and Goblin are awesome and really catch your eye.

One thing you can’t argue with is the array of different products available. I don’t believe Toy Biz ever had so many different items on the shelf at one time. Take into account the other licensees like Megablocks and you have an entire area of Spidey-goodness. Hasbro’s range of other product lines help with Spidey versions of Monopoly, Nerf footballs, etc. I would have to say the clear standout that I think is going to be a hit is Spider-Spud. I think he has the same “ap-peal” as Darth Tater and will sell just as fast (as will Optimash-Prime later this summer). Other favorites of mine include the plush Sandman, Goblin, and Spidey with suction cups. I also really like the Spider-man Superhero Squad packs. The remote control action figures were a new concept that looked cool too. The R/C Spider-man is supposed to be super-poseable.

Now lets look at the figures. As I said earlier collectors are not happy. The figures are more expensive for less quality. The sculpts are not as good, the paint apps are simple, and the size is smaller than Marvel Legends. Venom is painted PURPLE! and not black. Ultimately, these were made for kids with no thought of the collectors’ interest. If Hasbro doesn’t do something, the fans will boycott this line, and most of it will end up on the clearance racks.

Overall, I have mostly positive things to say about the Spider-man 3 line. The selection is “Amazing” with products that would interest almost everyone. The pricing on most of the product is affordable and the quality is outstanding. Despite having a weak figure line, I think the line will be a hit with kids, but lack of decent collectible figures will drive collectors away.

Pictures and Story by Michael Klein

Hit the forums to see more pictures and talk about the new Spider-Man 3 toys.