Convention - SDCC 2024 : An In-Depth Look at NECA’s Booth and Exclusive Releases

By Mulder, San Diego, Convention Center, 25 july 2024

San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2024 was nothing short of spectacular, and one of the most anticipated stops for collectors and pop culture enthusiasts was the NECA booth. NECA, known for its highly detailed action figures and collectibles, brought a mix of nostalgia, innovation, and exclusive merchandise that captivated the attendees. With a prime location at booth #3545, NECA's offerings this year not only drew large crowds but also sparked significant online buzz, making it one of the highlights of the convention.

One of the standout exclusives at NECA's booth was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) Mirage Comics 7” Scale Action Figure Set. This set was a tribute to the 40th anniversary of the original TMNT comics, a milestone that resonates deeply with fans who grew up with the iconic turtles. The set included all four turtles, each meticulously designed to reflect the original art by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. The packaging was a work of art in itself, featuring a lenticular slipcover and box art created by Eastman. Fans appreciated the attention to detail, from the interchangeable heads and hands to the turtles' signature weapons, making this set not just a collectible but a piece of TMNT history.

NECA also delighted fans with the Ultimate Super ALF figure, an exclusive that combined humor with high-quality design. This figure was a hit among those who remember the beloved 1980s sitcom. ALF, the alien from Melmac, was presented in a superhero costume, complete with a wired cape, interchangeable hands, and even a hinged selfie stick—a playful nod to the modern-day con-goer. The packaging was collector-friendly, designed with a window box that allowed fans to display ALF in all his glory without removing him from the box.

For fans of classic sci-fi and horror, NECA did not disappoint. The Flash Gordon "Wood Beast Challenge" 7” Scale Action Figure was another exclusive that drew significant attention. This figure recreated the tense scene from the 1980 Flash Gordon film, where the hero must navigate the perilous Wood Beast challenge. The figure was intricately designed, capturing the likeness of actor Sam Jones and including various accessories such as interchangeable expressions, hands, and the iconic Wood Beast. The packaging was equally impressive, making it a coveted item for collectors.

NECA’s homage to classic horror came in the form of the Glow-in-the-Dark Nosferatu figure. This figure celebrated the legendary 1922 film "Nosferatu" with a retro-style design that glowed in the dark, adding a spooky element that appealed to both horror fans and collectors of vintage-style figures. Packaged on a classic tribute blister card, this figure was a perfect blend of old-school horror and modern collectible design.

Beyond the major exclusives, NECA's booth was filled with a wide array of collectibles from various franchises. One notable mention was the Dinosaurs Earl Sinclair “Captain Impressive” figure, which paid tribute to the early '90s TV series "Dinosaurs." This figure was a delightful throwback, complete with soft goods tailored costume, wired cap, and various accessories that made it a standout piece for fans of the show.

NECA also continued its tradition of releasing highly detailed Predator figures, a staple in their lineup, much to the delight of fans. This year’s SDCC exclusive Predator figure featured intricate detailing and was packaged in a way that made it both display-friendly and a perfect addition to any collection.

NECA’s booth wasn’t just about the figures; it was an interactive experience designed to immerse attendees in their favorite franchises. The booth featured several photo opportunities, including life-sized replicas and dioramas that allowed fans to step into the worlds of their favorite characters. Attendees could also participate in giveaways, where lucky fans walked away with exclusive NECA merchandise. Additionally, NECA offered a free logo sticker with every purchase, a small but appreciated gesture that added to the overall experience.

For those who couldn’t attend SDCC in person, NECA ensured that their exclusives were still accessible. The company held an online sale prior to the event, where fans could pre-order these coveted items. However, quantities were limited, and many of the items sold out quickly, demonstrating the high demand for NECA’s products. The exclusives were also available in limited quantities at the booth, encouraging attendees to visit early to secure their favorite items.

SDCC 2024 reaffirmed NECA's position as a leader in the collectibles industry. Their booth was a celebration of pop culture, offering something for everyone, from vintage horror and sci-fi to modern-day television classics. NECA’s attention to detail, combined with their ability to tap into the nostalgia of their fanbase, made their booth one of the most talked-about at the convention.

For collectors and fans alike, NECA’s offerings at SDCC 2024 were not just about acquiring new figures—they were about reliving memories, celebrating anniversaries, and connecting with a community that shares a love for the same iconic characters and stories. Whether you were at the convention or following along online, NECA’s presence at SDCC 2024 was a highlight that will be remembered for years to come.

You can discover our photos in our Flickr page

Photos and video  : Boris Colletier / Mulderville