Diamond Comic Distributors is importing two series of action figures based on the Fullmetal Alchemist anime and manga, both of which have been huge hits in Japan. The FMA anime series (distributed in the U.S. by Funimation Productions) debuts on the Cartoon Network on Saturday, November 6th, and Diamond should have the first series of three Fullmetal Alchemist Action Figures out to coincide with launch of the anime.
The 6' to 6.5' tall action figures, manufactured by Square Enix, come with bonus parts such as removable jackets, hats, and other accessories. The Square Enix figures, which include Edward and Alphonse Elric and Winry Rockbell, are highly articulated, fully poseable, come in window box packages and are available exclusively in North America through Diamond.
In addition to the 6' to 6.5' tall action figures manufactured by Square Enix, Diamond is also importing a series of four Fullmetal Alchemist Mini-Figures, which are 3' to 5' in height and are fully articulated and highly detailed. The FMA Mini Figures, which include Edward and Alphonse Elric, Winry Rockbell, and Roy Mustang, come in blister card packaging and retail for $5.99 each.
It's a rare and good thing to have great licensed merchandise widely available so quickly. The Fullmetal Alchemist anime has the potential to be a major hit -- and Diamond will have both sets of figures out before Funimation issues its first FMA DVD in January (see Fullmetal Alchemist DVD Out In January').