Recommended music: Jim Croce – Operator
On this #TurtleTuesday, we’re spotlighting the most recent release of NECA Toys Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Raphael!
This “Pizza Club Edition” of Raph is based on his look from the 1987 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series. NECA designed the figure’s box to look like an old VHS tape produced by Family Home Entertainment (FHE) and promoted by the Burger King Kid’s Club circa 1990, aptly labeled: “Raphael is Cool But Rude.” This updated version of the turtles was part of Target’s Haulathon event in the spring of 2024.
This version of the cartoon figures is also referred to as an “Ultimate” release, as it includes a handful of new accessories, several of which are specific to one episode of the series. Besides a new scowling head sculpt for when a bird wrecks your stuff, Raphael comes with: an extra set of hands, a head that looks like it’s covered with pizza dough [See Pizza Club Michelangelo], Polly the parrot, a new oversized cartoon-style set of sais, a sausage & jelly bean pizza, a TV guide, and a red VHS tape.
While not a “must have” for collectors who already own previous cartoon figures of the character, this release offers numerous additions that enhance its overall value. The paint has a nice matte finish, and I feel like the colors really match the cartoon series.
Although I prefer the older, slimmer version of Raphael’s sai, I also appreciate the new accessories and head options in this release. Ultimately, for both collectors and more casual fans of the animated series, these updates make for a decent figure if you can find it for close to retail.
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