Toys, over the centuries, have proven themselves to be a staple part of childhood. In fact, if asked, the average adult would likely have dozens of stories to tell about what they played with. Perhaps the image of imagining themselves as fearsome pirates wielding plastic swords would come to mind. Or maybe spending afternoons cradling a baby doll is a memory not to be forgotten. Although the trends for toys are always changing, sometimes drastically, from generation to generation, some remain constant themes; action figures are one of them. It would not be hard to figure out why, and there are a few reasons to keep in mind.

They Are Portable: A toy of this type can be taken anywhere and everywhere the owner chooses. Because children frequently enjoy placing foreign objects inside their pockets and backpacks, an action figure is just the right size to be included. They can be packed away for long trips on the road, taken out only when the need arises, or placed prominently on a shelf without using up too much space. However, there is a negative aspect to portability; sometimes the figures can become lost quite easily. In a few cases, they may never be found again.

They Are Collectible: For those that have grown beyond the expected age to play with toys, some adults have moulded the action figure into something that can be collected. To help them along the way, websites have appeared on the internet, offering advice and information on the worth and rarity of certain figures. Although mostly attracted to toys that were released when they were small, sometimes items perceived as having great worth in the future are purchased. With collectibles, the action figures are not played with, but are in fact kept in their boxes if possible, to prevent flaws and other damage.

They Activate the Imagination: There is no law that states that an action figure must portray the character that they were made for. A few children choose to rename them, making them into something that fits what they desire. If the soldier is better suited to be a super hero in the child's eyes, then they can make it so. If the little girl thinks that the super hero should be a businessman or fire fighter that is up to them. They are free to do whatever they like; if desired, they can even change the clothes on the toy, assuming it is possible.

Toys have existed for hundreds of years, and they shall continue to exist for as long as they are needed. Many people in the world hold warm memories of playing with them, and when they pass it on to their children, so will the tradition continue. These action figures can be taken anywhere because of their usually small size, and grown people can continue to enjoy them by marking them as collectibles. No matter how humans choose to use or store them, none could deny what they are capable of.