In the realm of gaming merchandise, few items elicit as much excitement as Funko Pop figures. As fans ride the wave of nostalgia and fandom, the announcement that three characters from the acclaimed game Baldur’s Gate 3 are getting Funko Pop figures this year has undoubtedly stirred the pot. Astarion, the enigmatic High Elf vampire, Shadowheart, the mysterious Half-Elf cleric, and Karlach, the delightful Tiefling barbarian, are set to adorn collectors’ shelves this December, making it a perfect time for enthusiasts to expand their collection ahead of the holiday season.
With the countdown on, discerning collectors will want to keep an eye on various retailers that will stock these limited-edition figures. Each store presents slightly varying release dates, which can make deciding where to preorder a bit of a challenge. As of now, GameStop lists December 21 as the release date for all three figures, providing a consistent option for anyone looking to grab them at once. Conversely, Amazon is offering two of the figures on December 16, although fans should act swiftly as availability is already dwindling; one of the figures is completely sold out and will keep true to Funko’s trend of demand exceeding supply. Entertainment Earth, while boasting a price advantage of $1 less per figure, has pushed the delivery estimate to January 2025, making it less appealing for those seeking immediate satisfaction.
Preordering these figures is essential, given the current climate of quick sell-outs. The price point of $12-13 each is reasonable and well within the standard range for Funko Pops, which generally brings forth fierce competition among eager fans. Given the overall popularity of Baldur’s Gate 3, particularly as it garnered accolades for being one of the best games of 2023, we’re inclined to believe that the demand for these figures will only increase, making preordering a financially sound decision.
The Funko Pop figures portray the beloved characters in a manner true to their in-game aesthetics, capturing essential details that fans will deeply appreciate. Astarion is featured brandishing his dagger—emblematic of his vampire origins—while Shadowheart clutches the enigmatic artifact central to her story arc. In a delightful contrast, Karlach wields her two-handed battle axe, and her set includes a miniature figurine of her cherished teddy bear, Clive, adding a unique touch to the character’s representation. Such details not only honor the depth of these characters’ narratives but serve as conversation starters for collectors and fans alike.
It’s worth noting that Funko’s “Chase” variants have added a layer of intrigue. The inclusion of an alternative design for Astarion, replacing his signature dagger with a book, is a clever nod, catering to collectors’ desire for unique and rare items. The one-in-six chance of obtaining this limited-edition figure injects an element of excitement into the purchasing process, making it more than just a buy for some; it becomes a quest in itself.
As thrilling as the Funko Pops are, they are merely one piece of a broader merchandise strategy that capitalizes on the success of Baldur’s Gate 3. Fans can also anticipate the upcoming Dungeons & Dragons: Icons of the Realm miniatures, which promise pre-painted figures of main characters and numerous iconic adversaries from the game. Scheduled for early 2025, these collectibles offer an opportunity for an extended immersive gaming experience, making them a worthy addition alongside the Funko figures.
The main character mini set, priced at $50, includes figures of familiar characters like Lae’zel, Gale, and Wyll, ensuring that fans have the opportunity to own a piece of their favorite narratives. For those eager to engage in tabletop gaming, booster boxes featuring painted antagonistic figures will greatly enrich campaign settings, offering an added layer of engagement for tabletop aficionados.
The release of the Funko Pop figures for Astarion, Shadowheart, and Karlach marks an exciting time for collectors and hardcore fans of Baldur’s Gate 3. From preordering details to their artistic representations, these figures encapsulate the charm and depth of the game’s universe, while upcoming miniatures further build on the experience. Everyone in fandom should take note—these collectibles could very well embody a classic treasure at the intersection of gaming and merchandise.