THE BEST Toys

We’re personally getting tired of the Steampunk genre, but we still love these robot models by The Builder’s Studio. They look metallic, but these retro tech creations are made out of wood.

Just like the name says, Droplets are drop-shaped collectibles. Sold blindboxed, they’re hand-signed and hand-numbered, each with their own personality. Black is the hardest to find.

Above: snapped by a weather balloon shortly after it popped, 18.5 miles up. Tethered to it were several Lego projects built by students, profs and hobbyists. The projects parachuted back down.

The Toy2R Forums are running a 10″ Bart Simpson Qee customs auction until August 25th. There are 49 dolls in all, and they cost from $100-$1000; the proceeds go to the Red Cross.

We actually own several of postdesigner’s digitally printed monster plushes, and boy do they spiff up our office. Be warned: once you start buying these beasties, it’s hard to stop.

Let’s be clear: Darth Maul was gypped, but we’re happy that he’s getting some primo exposure with this vinyl collectible by Medicom (avail. Q2 2008). Preordering is a good idea: he’s limited edition.

To be auctioned Aug. 1 for a cool $170k, this is the TIE Fighter that bumped off Darth Vader in Star Wars IV: A New Hope. Cheaper: C3PO’s shoes, Cantina alien head and Imperial officer costume.