Whether you're a long-time fan of Destiny or just finding your place in the universe, collecting merchandise is a fantastic way to bring a game piece into your home, gaming room or workspace.
Among the most sought-after collectables are statues and action figures, each offering unique strengths and appeals. But, regarding long-term value and making a good investment, how do you decide which is the better buy?
Destiny Statues: Balancing Quality, Art and Fan-Favourite Characters
There's a lot of Destiny merchandise out there, but few ranges are as popular as the statues. These high-quality, non-articulated display pieces appeal to all types of fans, from those who are brand new to the game to those who have long been a part of Destiny's lore. Unlike action figures, statues are not meant to be posed or played with.
They capture a single iconic moment or stance, and they're crafted in a way to evoke awe and admiration. Destiny statues showcase love for a specific character or item from the game, such as Nezarec's Sin Replica Helmet. These statues aren't toys; they balance high-quality craftsmanship and art to create display pieces that stand out in a collection.
Incredible Detail - Statues tend to feature fine textures, intricate designs, and high-end paintings that bring the Destiny universe to life.
Ready to Display - With dynamic poses and themed bases, Destiny statues are made to sit proudly on shelves, mantles, or desks. You won't have to worry about propping them up or finding the right pose.
Artistic Craftsmanship - These pieces feel like art you want to display, less like a toy. They're great for collectors who wish their collection to be visually impressive.
Of course, as with any merchandise, Destiny statues have a few drawbacks. For example, they are more expensive, especially if you're chasing limited editions or larger scales. Plus, as they're often made of resin, they can be fragile and are more susceptible to damage during shipping or display.
Action Figures: Poseable and Playable
Meanwhile, statues like the Mara Sov replica and The Drifter statues are designed for display only, while action figures are articulated models designed for movement and flexibility. They're generally made from high-quality plastic, making them durable for playing and posing.
Destiny action figures are often based on popular characters and weapons from the game, sometimes offering interchangeable features and accessories to create custom experiences.
Poseability - Articulated limbs allow you to recreate your favourite gaming moments, battle stances, or iconic moments. This is great for taking photos and creating displays that can change and evolve.
Customisation - Many Destiny figures come with swappable accessories, which add variety and play value. You can create scenes based on your favourite gaming moments or unique experiences that add new dimensions to Destiny lore.
Affordability - Basic Destiny figures are typically much more accessible than statues, making them ideal for younger fans or collectors on a budget.
As Destiny action figures are made to be handled, posed and moved without risk of breaking, they tend to have less detail. While quality has improved significantly in recent years, many action figures still lack the detail of a well-crafted statue.
Plus, as action figures are mass-produced and widely available, they don't hold or increase in value as well as limited-run statues.
Destiny Action Figures vs Statues: Holding Value Over Time
If you're thinking long-term, either as a serious collector or someone considering resale value, statues are a better investment. Many Destiny statues are produced in limited runs, which increases their long-term demand.
Plus, they age well on display, maintaining their appeal and 'wow' factor long after they've been purchased. There's also the fact that once Destiny statues are out of production, they become harder to find, and prices can rise significantly on the resale markets.
That's not to say that action figures aren't good investments under the right conditions. Limited edition releases, exclusive variants and discounted items have all been known to increase in value.
FAQs: Destiny Collectibles
Are Destiny action figures suitable for kids? - Though Destiny isn't a video game aimed at children, the action figures can make good toys. They're durable, affordable and great for imaginative play. It's essential to check age recommendations, as some smaller parts may not be suitable for very young children.
Should I open the box or keep it sealed? - If you're collecting purely for investment, sealed is best. But if you're into display or photography, open it and enjoy. Keep the box and inserts in good condition, as they matter if you ever decide to resell.
Can I collect action figures and statues? - Of course! There's no reason not to. Statues and action figures serve different purposes, and many fans collect both. You might have a beautifully detailed statue sitting in pride of place in your display, but action figures sitting on your desk are ready to be posed.