Back in 2011, Mattel held a Create-A-Character contest for their Masters of the Universe Classics line. The idea was that you could submit as many character designs as you wanted, and the winner would be made into an action figure in 2012 for their 30th Anniversary sub line. Nobody but the people at Mattel knew who the winner was until the big reveal at San Diego Comic-Con this past Summer. Lo and behold the winning figure was none other than the subject of this review, Castle Grayskullman! He was created by Daniel Benedict and ever since the reveal has met with mostly positive reactions. To many fans, it was clear why Mattel picked this as the winner, as it seemed to perfectly represent the spirit of the contest and Masters of the Universe as a brand. It seemed like something that could have sincerely been a figure back in the vintage line, which I think gave it that edge.
But that’s, of course, speaking purely of the design. How does the figure hold up though? Join me as I take a closer look and find out.
CASTLE GRAYSKULLMAN
Heroic Embodiment of Castle Grayskull™REALNAME: Not Applicable
During the Second Ultimate Battleground, Hordak® and King Hssss’ grand army pressed in against the allied heroes of Eternia®. In the darkest moment of battle, all hope seemed lost as many heroes fell, including Snake Man-At-Arms® and Stratos®. Reaching out through the Orb of Power, hidden deep inside Castle Grayskull®, He-Man® and the new Sorceress® used an unrepeatable spell to call upon the Powers of Grayskull™ and infuse life into the very spirit of the castle itself. Rising from the castle’s hidden Chamber of Defense; Castle Grayskullman™ marched into battle, swinging his dual swords of power, helping to turn the tide.