Those of you who were hoping for versions a bit more like the 1950s watchmen are in luck… The modern Wave of Watchmen action figures due out on January 28th 2009 will be followed closely (February 25, 2009) by wave 2, which will consist of 4 classic-era figures… Silk Spectre, the Comedian, Nite Owl and Dr. Manhattan (who has yet to be revealed - but I’m betting will be sporting his classic swimsuit instead of the modern free-balling version - just don’t see DCD sculpting a little blue penis on him).

Finally after a loooong wait, DC Direct has announced the release date and line up for the third wave of action figures based on the recent relaunch of Justice League of America. After a craptastic throwaway line in Series 2, (Batman - has been done better, Hawkgirl - JSA is far superior, Amazo - who cares, and Dr. Impossible - only use is as a bade for Obsidian if you customize), this time they got it right.

Series 3 includes: GEO-FORCE!!!!!! (Yay my psychotic Tara Markov gets to hang near her big bro), Flash, Green Lantern - Hal, and Wonder Woman - I like the Dodson version, but this should appease those who didn’t like that Dodson’s was pre-posed). CHECK THESE OUT!

Justice Leage of America Series 3 ships in 170 days

Collectors of the stylized JLU inspired action figures really have something to look forward to at SDCC. A planned SDCC exclusive of the size-altering villainess contains not only a regular sized (4 3/4″) Giganta in scale with the other JLU figures, but also an enlarged version (8″) so she can tower over her cohorts in the Legion of Doom. Now if they would only make a Giganta for the regular DCD line, and one in the Alex Ross style for the Justice line, everyone would be happy.

From DCD we see more shots of the Watchmen figures due 1st quarter 2009

and here they are - more complete shots than were in Toyfare…

DC Direct Kevin McGuire inspired Justice League International Wave 1 hits shelves in 140 days

DC Direct website

I have to admit, I’m genuinely surprised these are looking good. From the artwork, I thought I was going to hate these. But now i will actually buy that Ice (I was previously livid about it being her Global Guardians costume) While I would still prefer the furry boots version (and will replace this if the modern Tora ever comes out), this is actually a very solid depiction of a much loved character. The Batman, G’Nort and Black Canary look great too (but there is just no way you could interest me in Disco Dinah).

I’ve been waiting for these figure since DC Direct haphazardly released its first batch of New Teen Titans figures back in 2000 (Starfire and Kid Flash, followed by Raven and Cyborg in 2001). Terra has long been my favorite Titan. But i couldn’t tell you if that was because or despite her being an amoral bucktoothed sociopath.

COUNTDOWN TO MAY 28th RELEASE DATE…

DC Direct’s George Perez Inspired New Teen Titans Action Figures, wave 2 has been on shelves for 70 days