Toimintameninä

Toimintameninä is a Finnish term that translates to "action figures" or "action dolls." This category of toys encompasses figures that are typically posable and often represent characters from popular media such as movies, comic books, video games, or television shows. Unlike traditional dolls that might be associated with domestic play or fashion, action figures are generally designed for imaginative play scenarios that involve combat, adventure, or storytelling.

The history of action figures can be traced back to the early 20th century with the introduction of posable wooden dolls, but the modern concept is widely attributed to the G.I. Joe figure released by Hasbro in 1964. This figure was designed to be a "fully articulated action figure" and was marketed towards boys, differentiating it from the female-oriented fashion dolls that were prevalent at the time. The success of G.I. Joe paved the way for numerous other action figure lines.

Key characteristics of toimintameninä include articulated joints at the limbs and sometimes the head, allowing for a wide range of poses. They are often made from plastic and come with accessories such as weapons, vehicles, or alternate clothing. The appeal of toimintameninä lies in their ability to embody beloved characters and facilitate creative role-playing and storytelling for children and adult collectors alike. They are a significant segment of the toy industry worldwide.