Marvel Collector Corps Review: October 2015

Marvel Collector Corps delivers steady returns with its VILLAINS theme.

Review by Matt Cummings

The subscription box war has seen amazing things lately, with two of the best ever from both Loot Crate and Geek Fuel. But folks, remember that an upstart is making waves as well: Marvel Collector Corps. Ill-content to let money pass along to lesser box companies, Marvel has delivered steady returns for fans in May, June, and August. This sort of 'steady-Eddie' approach might make each box seem a bit...predictable...but its quality and value make it a compelling choice whil.e others ebb and flow with increasing frequency. This month it's VILLAINS.

The Promise

Before we begin, let's look at the deal again: promising a value of $50, the box would keep the "fluff" (their words) to a minimum with Funko partnering each time to deliver an exclusive figure. Joining at the Founders level would get you an 8" exclusive figure on your one-year anniversary, but you can also subscribe at the Collector level at $25 with $6.95 shipping. We're still not sure which figure they will release to Founders, but it's clear now that Funko will play a part. With my Marvel Unlimited Plus comic sub, I get a terrific (and exclusive) Legends figure, so I'm hopeful that we'll see something as high quality as the Rocket Raccoon which graced my door months ago. Anyone who might have some insight into this is encouraged to let us know.

The Delivery

Once again, it's a nice big box, which means plenty of room for awesomeness. The Venom image isn't the first one I'd choose (I'm more of a Doom/Thanos guy), but the art is solid. As you can see, the outer box features the same lettering across the entire sides of the box as in previous months. Interior artwork is from a classic comic, but I'm unaware of which. As with previous months, MCC now divides the box to keep the contents safely secured. No more rustling around to damage the goods!

Once again, the inner flap contains two collectible "accessories" including a Red Skull patch and Green Goblin pin. Each of these are exclusive to MCC, and their workmanship is terrific. These have formed the basis for every box, and I'm definitely loving them.

The Guts

One of my reasons for purchasing this series was to secure a t-shirt, which I've been richly rewarded since the first box. As you can see, we have a shirt and what appears to be three Funko figures. While such news shouldn't come as a surprise, it's the exclusive Pop! Moribus that's got me a little giddy. He's a bad dude in the comics, and here the high-quality sculpt is not hard to see.

Let's start with the smallest addition, a mini Pocket POP Venom keychain. Although he's had a major Pop! released already, this one works if you're into that kind of stuff. This might be the first MCC item I might place up on eBay. It's not poorly made, just not something I'm looking for. What I do love is the October Collector Corps Exclusive Dorbz Loki Packaged DORBZ. It's beautifully painted and the cape and helmet look fantastic. Definitely a keeper. As you know, I never open these figures, so he'll join a growing rank of Pop!s that now include Ant-Man and The Hulkbuster.

A Shirt To Die For

But then there's that shirt, and once again Marvel hits it out of the park. This collection of pencil-drawn villains is simply terrific, with the shirt made of a soft material that rivals anything you can buy at Hot Topic. Think Disney over Walmart. This is almost worth the total of the entire month's subscription. Then you add the patch/pin and the Pop!s and you see why I'm so happy every other month.

The Comic

Included with the box is another comic: a MCC variant for Invincible Iron Man. Looks like Tony is wrapped up in some zombie ass kicking here, but I'll never know as I don't open these either. Yes, you're getting the picture here. I'm sure my friends at Marvel Unlimited can help me delve into this issue. Either way, I'm happy with MCC's improved shipping method by adding a bag and board.

The Bottom Line

Marvel's Collector Corps' October release is another solid addition to the family, which might come as a bit of "what have you for me lately" to some. Rubbish: MCC has chosen the simple road in delivering high-quality items that fans want. It's a no-lose proposal, and one that makes each box as desirable as the next. That's the point, isn't it? Loot Crate could certainly take a page from MCC's book. And while they delivered the best box in perhaps sub's short history, I almost prefer the slow/steady approach behind MCC. It's a great way to win the subscription box war that will soon have another player in the Star Wars-themed Smuggler's Bounty.

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