The Death of Superman figure category is ideal for collectors seeking iconic 90s comics nostalgia, character accuracy, and display-worthy poseability. This guide highlights top options for fans of the Dark Nights, classic movie portrayals, and comic-book reimaginings. The featured picks cater to different collectors: some prioritize ultra-articulation for dynamic display, others emphasize licensed likeness or display-ready accessories. Read on to compare each figure’s strengths and limitations before you buy.
| Product | Brand | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Nights: Death Metal Superman 7″ Figure | McFarlane Toys | Ultra-articulation and buildable elements for display |
| The Return Of Superman Mafex Figure | Medicom | Official license and base stand for precise posing |
| Superman S.H.Figuarts (Theatrical) Figure | TAMASHII NATIONS | Film-accurate styling and wired cape |
| Superman 1978 Movie Deluxe Figure | McFarlane Toys | Classic film look with multiple accessories |
| DC Multiverse Cyborg Superman | McFarlane Toys | Iconic dystopian comic look with detailed articulation |
Dark Nights: Death Metal Superman 7″ Figure
This 7” scale figure mirrors Superman’s look from Dark Nights: Death Metal with ultra-articulation that supports up to 22 moving parts. It’s best for collectors who want dynamic posing and the option to customize with Build-A ‘Darkfather’ parts. The figure suits display shelves that emphasize modern DC storytelling and action poses.
Who it’s best for: fans seeking a highly posable Superman that can recreate dramatic battle stances from the Death Metal storyline. Why selected: the figure’s articulation and themed accessories align with the Death Metal aesthetic.
Caution: some collectors may want additional display space for interchangeable parts and accessories that come with the build figure kit.
Medicom The Return Of Superman Mafex Figure
Medicom’s Mafex line offers an officially licensed Superman figure with a base stand included. The Return of Superman Mafex emphasizes accurate detailing and display stability, making it a strong pick for collectors who value official licensing and reliable posing over extreme articulation.
Who it’s best for: fans who prioritize fidelity to the character’s classic look and a solid stand for display. Why selected: official licensing and included stand simplify setup and presentation.
Caution: Mafex figures tend to be priced higher and may have smaller parts that require careful handling.
Superman S.H.Figuarts (Film Version)
TAMASHII NATIONS’ S.H.Figuarts Superman presents film-accurate styling with a wired cape for free-flowing pose options. The facial parts are digitally painted with nuanced skin texture and shading to closely reproduce the movie look. This figure excels for display scenarios that emphasize cinematic fidelity.
Who it’s best for: fans seeking a high-fidelity, movie-accurate Superman with expressive posing options. Why selected: wired cape and film-inspired detailing are standout features.
Caution: S.H.Figuarts figures can be more delicate due to multiple small components and fabric elements.
Superman Movie Deluxe 1978 Figure
This Deluxe Theatrical Edition captures the look from SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE (1978) with up to 22 points of articulation and a rich accessory set, including extra hands and a display base. It’s a good match for fans who favor classic film aesthetics and display versatility.
Who it’s best for: collectors who want a classic-era Superman with broad posing options. Why selected: authentic film styling combined with a robust accessory lineup.
Caution: the vintage look may contrast with more modern DC figures in a single display if consistency matters to the collector.
Cyborg Superman (Revenge Of The Green Lanterns)
McFarlane’s Cyborg Superman spans the DC Multiverse with a distinctive armored look inspired by the Revenge of the Green Lanterns storyline. It’s best for collectors who want a darker, metallic aesthetic in their Death of Superman lineup and appreciate high articulation for dynamic scenes.
Who it’s best for: fans seeking a more sci-fi, armored interpretation of Superman in the collection. Why selected: unique design offers variety next to more traditional Superman figures.
Caution: the armored design may limit seamless compatibility with cloth-cape figures in some diorama setups.
Superman (Heat Vision) Deluxe Figure
This figure recreates Clark Kent’s Kryptonian persona with heat vision effects and a robust articulation framework. It’s a solid choice for action display and narrative scenes tied to Batman v Superman-era storytelling.
Who it’s best for: collectors who enjoy a battle-ready Superman with energy effect features. Why selected: heat vision adds dramatic visual impact to dioramas.
Caution: some may prefer a simpler look without extra effect features for a cleaner shelf appearance.
Dark Knight Returns: The Batman/ Superman Mafex Figure
A Medicom Mafex entry inspired by The Dark Knight Returns. At 6.3″ tall, it offers a compact, stylized take on Superman with detailed sculpting and a bold black-silver palette. It pairs well with other Mafex figures in a retro DC display.
Who it’s best for: fans seeking a compact, stylized Superman with strong stand-alone presence. Why selected: distinct aesthetic and reputable Mafex craftsmanship.
Caution: smaller size may require closer viewing than larger, more dynamic figures for appreciation of details.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Articulation vs. display: Decide if you want maximum posing freedom or a display-focused figure with fewer parts to risk loss.
- Licensing and likeness: Officially licensed figures offer more accurate features and often include stands or cards for display depth.
- Accessory package: Consider extra hands, heads, or display bases that add value without clutter.
- Scale compatibility: Most figures in this category are 6–7 inches tall; ensure consistency with your current shelf.
- Material and build quality: Look for sturdy joints and durable paint finishes to withstand long display periods.
- Display intent: If you plan dioramas, wired capes or transparent stands can enhance realism and stability.
FAQ
- Q: Which Death of Superman figure offers the best articulation? A: Figures from McFarlane Toys in the 7″ line typically provide high articulation with up to 22 moving parts, good for dynamic poses.
- Q: Are Mafex figures reliable for long-term display? A: Yes, Mafex figures are known for fidelity and include bases, but care is needed with small parts.
- Q: Do movie-based figures match comic versions? A: They can differ in detailing; choose based on whether you prefer film likeness or classic comic aesthetics.
- Q: What should I consider for a cohesive DC display? A: Pick one or two brands for consistency (e.g., McFarlane or Mafex) and maintain similar scale across figures.
- Q: Is a wired cape important? A: For display versatility, a wired cape enables more varied and dramatic poses without fabric sag.
- Q: Do deluxe editions include extra accessories? A: Often yes; check each listing for hands, heads, displays, or mini posters.