The tag line for the 1979 horror/sci-fi classic Alien was: “In space no 
one can hear you scream.” I am sure that 35 years later you can hear the screams of joy from fans. Screams of joy because of all the merchandise that has been released from that franchise. 2014 saw the release of a new video game, an Alien head bottle opener, a Hallmark ornament and most importantly a line of Minimates based on the second movie in the franchise, Aliens, from Diamond Select Toys.
I normally prefer my action figures more on the realistic side so Minimates aren’t something that I gravitate towards but these figures are beyond cool. This release includes Carter Burke, Pvt. Spunkmeyer, Pvt. Wierzbowski and 3 different xenomorphs (warrior, battle damaged and attacking) and is probably my favorite Minimate release to date. I am always amazed at the level of detail that Diamond Select puts into this tiny wonders.
The Aliens Minimates are approximately 2 inches tall and have approximately 14 points of articulation (I counted the moveable tail as 2 extra moving parts). So basically you get tiny figures with full size fun! The figures come with different accessories similar to what they used in the movie. Spunkmeyer comes with a flight helmet and a sidearm, Wierzbowski comes with battle armor, M141A Pulse Rifle and interchangeable hair. Burke comes with a smug look and the deep seated knowledge that he was wrong. You can swap out gear from the Marines and Burke including helmets and hair to create unique figures.
Designed and sculpted by Art Asylum the actual xenomorphs in this release are highly detailed and awesome. I am constantly impressed at how much detail that can pack into a two inch figure. Since these figures are inexpensive you can build an entire alien hive in your cubicle at work. You know you wanted to, so maybe you should.
The release of the Aliens Army Builder single packs follows the Alien 35th Anniversary box set. That set included Parker, Kane, Ripley and the Alien. I can’t wait to get 1979 Ripley and 1986 Ripley on the same shelf. The aliens aren’t going to stand a chance.
I am glad that Diamond Select Toys gives love to genre classics since there weren’t any Aliens toys when we were kids. Now you can build your own squad to land on LV-426 with upcoming two-pack releases. I just wish they made an APC for the figures (hint guys). We will keep you updated on when the next group is released. Lock and load.
