In celebration of Marvel Comics’ 80th Anniversary, the #1 comic publisher is teaming with Mattel to immortalize three of its most iconic heroes in plastic as part of the Barbie line– Dark Phoenix, Mystique, and Storm. Though they won’t be available until October, Game Stop is taking pre-orders. They retail for $54.99 USD. You can check them out below.
DARK PHOENIX: Also known as Jean Grey-Summers, Dark Phoenix is an Omega-level mutant with telepathic and telekinetic powers. This beloved character, who has faced numerous deaths and rebirths, wrestles with her personal demons. Dark Phoenix Barbie® doll is as fierce as the character she emulates. This collectible Barbie® doll captures Dark Phoenix’s iconic look in a red bodysuit with shimmering gold details, including the gold phoenix graphic, thigh-high boots, gloves, and a sash.
For detailed closeups, click below:
This isn’t the first time Mattel has created Barbie dolls based on Marvel characters. In 2005, they released three — Invisible Woman loosely based on Jessica Alba in the ‘Fantastic Four’ movie; Elektra, who was strangely not based on Jennifer Garner, but the comic book version; and Mary Jane Watson, dressed in her wedding gown from the comics.
Presumably, characters from the ‘X-Men’ were selected for this assortment because this is a celebration of the comic books, and the ‘X-Men’ titles are among the best-selling in the publisher’s history. Had characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe been used, this would have come across as more of a tribute to the movies. It’s also very likely that the rights to those characters are tied up with Hasbro’s deal, which includes the Marvel Rising doll line.
Once again, these can be pre-ordered through Game Stop and will be released in October. They will retail for $54.99 USD.
Source: IGN