NECA's new 1/4 scale Batman figures (which you may remember from Toy Fair) are now up for pre-order. These gigantic, slightly scary figures stand roughly 18-inches tall and feature twenty points of articulation as well as interchangeable parts.

Both figures feature a strange photo-realism to their faces, although the Adam West Batman figure on display at Toy Fair seemed to sport an unnaturally pale complex which greatly contributed to the figure's all-around creepiness. There's something at least a little frightening about this one. The figure seems to use a lot of fabric for the costume which, while in keeping with the show, doesn't exactly make for a flattering figure. Plus the Adam West is missing much of the actor's trademark paunch (as, Adam West explained in Back to the Batcave, the skin-tight outfit made him look out of shape). If you really don't like the look of this figure, you can just wait for the numerous other Adam West Batman figures due out this year.

The Michael Keaton Batman fared a good deal better, as the darker skin complexion and the costume is considerably more flattering. For many years, Michael Keaton was the definitive Batman for me although that opinion gradually changed thanks to Batman: The Animated Series. That said, Keaton's Batman costume and portrayal will always have a special place in my heart. It's really a nice outfit and seemingly more practical than the normal costume (albeit that yellow logo would make it hard to blend into the night).

Both figures seem to come with a bunch of accessories including alternate hands. The Adam West Batman supposedly has a working utility belt but I'm not sure what that entails. These figures will set you back US$85 apiece but, given the size, that's probably not an unreasonable price. Anybody here planning on picking up an overly large Batman figure?

[ Pre-order Adam West | Michael Keaton at Big Bad Toy Store ]