I really do wonder about the future of Star Wars action figures (and action figures in general). Obviously, things will likely pick up a lot when new movies start to hit, but what will things look like at that point? The example of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles line was brought up, and as someone who follows that line pretty closely (our daughter is way into the show and toys - and has a complete lineup so far), plus working Black Friday this year I can definitely say - those toys move. I couldn't believe how many Turtles figures (not to mention the larger stuff, role play, vehicles, etc.) sold throughout the weekend, and in general. The Star Wars section was pretty much untouched even with all of the shoppers coming through. Granted, there isn't current entertainment, which I think makes a pretty big difference with casual/gift buying people, but it was a big difference.
On the TMNT subject as well, that line just seems to be run pretty well. Just keeping track and shopping for all of the different characters for our daughter, I've noticed that we've been able to find everything at retail (usually several times) - things are restocked consistently. Plus, there is a nice variety to the line. Sure, there are multiple versions of the Turtles, but she has at least a dozen villains/supporting characters as well in the first year+ of the line. They come with a nice array of accessories and all that, most are well articulated, and usually run about $8. Anyways, enough about Turtles, but it really is the model of an action figure line right now it seems. I just wonder what the make-up of the Star Wars action figure line will be going forward. I have a feeling 2014 will be a relatively slow year, much like this year (but hopefully without the 6-8 month break to start things off). I know I'm really looking forward to that Yoda/Luke wave on the way, as well as the 6" stuff. Toy Fair should be interesting.