G.I. Joe Creator Launches Biblical Action Figures Line
The original creator of the billion dollar G.I. Joe toy has moved onto a new line of action figures.
This time, instead of a series of military-themed action figures, toy mogul Don Levine has begun selling a series of Bible-based action figures depicting champions from the Old Testament.
The action figure creator hopes that the unique series of Almighty Heroes will inspire children to take a deeper look into scripture.
"It is my desire that these inspirational action figures and fashion dolls create excitement for kids," explained Levine, in a statement, "and develop their interest in the characters and messages of the Bible."
The new series of toys was launched this month and include biblical figures such as Samson, David, Noah and Moses. For girls, there are fashion dolls based off women such as Queen Esther and Deborah the Warrior.
Besides the figures themselves, the toys also come with their own Bible storybook. Levine, who is Jewish, hopes that children can learn about the same heroes that he did as he grew up.
"The battle of Good versus Evil is what makes these characters stand out," added the toy tycoon known to some as "the father of G.I. Joe."
The first G.I. Joe action figure was released in 1963 after toy creator and licensing agent Stan Weston brought the idea of a soldier action figure to Levine at toy company Hasbro after seeing the market success of the Barbie doll,. Since it first began, the company started by Levine made over five billion dollars.
G.I. Joe also remains one of the most recognizable toy brands within American history and has often represented the boy toy industry.
Levine's new company is now slated to release 35 new toys for the fall based on the Almighty Heroes action figures and Bible stories. Levine has also started up the process for creating a television and DVD series for the characters in the future.
Information and purchasing of the items can be found at Levine's website, www.familyvaluescenter.com. As a goal, the products from the site are meant to "nurture the special spirit that exists within the family by making it very real, fun and meaningful to share."