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Considering how the original trilogy kick-started movie merchandise as we know it today, it isn’t surprising to see so many different Star Wars action figures now weighing down shelves. However, the tricky bit is working out which ones are worth your hard-earned credits (especially because more are guaranteed to join the party this May 4, AKA Star Wars Day).
Regardless of whether you want a collectible for your shelf, something for the toybox, or good old-fashioned Star Wars gifts, it can be an overwhelming thing to navigate. That’s why we’re swooping in like the bantha-riding cavalry to let you know what’s available, and which Star Wars action figures you should actually buy. Our price-matching software is also scouting out the best deals every day, so you might be able to get a discount as well.
Curious about how we decide on which Star Wars action figures to recommend? Besides going hands-on with a variety of toys from each line (don’t miss our Star Wars figures explained guide for a more comprehensive overview of what sets them apart), our team combs through retail user-reviews to select the very best offerings. As with everything on GamesRadar, we’ll only ever suggest products that have a proven track record.
Star Wars action figures – best for collectors
If you’re trying to find Star Wars action figures that’ll look awesome on your shelf, it doesn’t get better than the Black Series. These are incredibly detailed with multiple accessories and articulation, but they aren’t going to break the bank either.
1. Darth Vader
The Dark Lord of the Sith practically wrote the book on good movie villains, so this picture-perfect recreation of Darth Vader is a must-have. Modelled after his appearance in The Empire Strikes Back, the figure is suitably imposing despite only being six inches tall. Thanks to a real cloth tunic and cape to go with intricately detailed belt panels, the model also feels a lot more expensive than it really is. The Black Series is known for its detailed sculpts, but this? It takes things even further.
2. The Mandalorian
It’d be an understatement to say that The Mandalorian has taken the world by storm, so it’s only fair that his Star Wars action figure is equally impressive. Capturing the bounty hunter’s look and bearing effortlessly, it features multiple accessories to go with numerous points of articulation (that means you can pose him in suitably heroic fashion as you see fit). The paintwork is great across the board as well, and although it would have been nice to see a cloth cape included, that’s a nitpick on what is otherwise a fantastic model.
3. Imperial Stormtrooper
Few costumes say ‘Star Wars’ like the Imperial Stormtrooper, and that’s why this Black Series model gets our vote as one of the best Star Wars action figures. Although it’s based on their design in The Mandalorian, it’s still the same classic aesthetic so will fit in nicely with original trilogy toys. The inclusion of a blaster rifle allows for you to set your trooper up in patrol mode on the shelf as well, and we can highly recommend it.
Star Wars action figures – best for kids
For younglings that love a galaxy far, far away, it’s hard to beat the Galaxy of Adventure figures. Besides being very affordable, they have a fun, charming design that makes them incredibly kid-friendly without skimping on quality.
1. Darth Vader
Yes, we know it’s Darth Vader again. But this figure really makes a statement, and it’s surprisingly detailed despite being so cheap. A more stylized design gives it an overdose of personality as well. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive many rough-and-tumble play sessions. This is exactly the kind of Star Wars action figure we dreamed of owning as kids.
2. Rey
It can be difficult to recreate an actor in miniature, and many cross over into the uncanny valley with a visage that’ll haunt our nightmares. Not so for Rey. While this is a more stylized rendition of the Last Jedi, it still manages to capture the look and wry attitude of Daisy Ridley with ease. Throw in the Skywalker saber and her blaster for the ultimate Rey action figure.
3. R2-D2, BB-8, and D-O
Star Wars droids are some of the most memorable characters in the saga, especially for children, so getting three of the most beloved in Galaxy of Adventure-form makes this set a must-buy. You can even shoot out cables from BB-8’s sides just like in the movies, so when combined with the fact that three figures are included in the box, it’s surprisingly good value.
Star Wars action figures – best retro
Looking for something nostalgic? It doesn’t get much better than The Vintage Collection. Modelled after the Star Wars action figures of the 1970s and ’80s, they’re made in the same style but with today’s design advancements.
1. Boba Fett
It goes without saying that Boba Fett is awesome, and this Star Wars action figure represents him at his most mysterious – back in the original trilogy. As with all Vintage Collection models, you may be taken aback by how detailed this one is; it’s got a fantastic paint job and awesome detailing that make us sure our younger selves would implode with glee upon seeing it.
2. Darth Maul (Mandalore)
This Sith apprentice was one of the few things fans could unanimously agree was awesome about Phantom Menace, and Maul only got better with time. This Star Wars action figure represents him from The Clone Wars’ final episodes, and it’s a real masterclass of how to make this scale. Flexible and eminently posable with single or dual-bladed lightsabers, it captures his fighting style from that arc perfectly.
3. Han Solo (Endor)
You know a character’s cool when they get a big swishy coat to run around in and no one’s cooler than Han Solo. This version of the smuggler is from Return of the Jedi where he took part in the Battle of Endor, and it has a brilliantly oversized, somewhat awkward cloth coat that is very in keeping with the older figures. It’s nostalgia in a box. And yes, you can take the coat off for a more classic Han Solo look if you’d prefer.
Star Wars action figures – FAQ
Unless they’re particularly rare or popular, it takes a while for decommissioned figures to increase in value
To be precise, you can get $40+ on recent but popular toys that have gone out of production. We’ve actually seen the likes of a now-defunct Vintage Collection Luke Skywalker hit $100 on eBay.
Hunting down presents for a loved one? Be sure to check out these Star Wars gifts, not to mention the best Lego Star Wars sets. It’s worth taking a look at our guide to gifts for gamers, too.
