The Funko Pop League of Legends are much more than simple vinyl figures. They are the perfect way to merge the Runeterra universe with Funko’s iconic and big-headed style, becoming authentic emblems of geek culture for the gaming community and allowing fans to have a physical version of their favorite champions.
The Runeterra universe on your shelf
Imagine having a piece of the Summoner’s Rift right there, in your setup. That is the magic that happens when two cult worlds collide: the deep lore of League of Legends and the global collecting phenomenon that is Funko Pop.
Suddenly, legendary champions that have starred in millions of matches, like the cunning Ahri, the chaotic Jinx or the indomitable Yasuo, made the jump from the computer screen. They stopped being just pixels to become coveted vinyl figures that now decorate shelves all over the world, as if they were the protagonists of their own movie.
More than simple vinyl dolls
For the gaming community, these collectibles are not toys, they are an extension of their passion. They function as an emblem, a tangible piece of the hours of strategy, frustration and epic victories invested in the video game. Their impact is very similar to what Star Wars figures had for a previous generation, creating a physical and emotional connection to a universe they adore.
Having the Funko Pop of your main is like wearing a medal of honor, a declaration of loyalty to that character with whom you have shared so many battles. It is a way of saying: “I was there”, in that decisive teamfight or in that comeback that seemed impossible, worthy of a movie script.
For many, a Funko Pop of League of Legends is the ultimate trophy. It not only represents a champion, but all the stories, friendships and passion that the game has generated over the years. It is a symbol of belonging to a global community.
A cultural phenomenon that exploded with Arcane
The arrival of League of Legends Funko Pop figures to the Spanish market revolutionized collecting, coinciding with the peak of the video game’s popularity in our country. The success was immediate, but it was the animated series Arcane that catapulted it to another level. The models inspired by this masterpiece, such as those of Vi and Jinx, came to represent 45% of total sales of video game Funko Pops in specialized stores. If you are interested in the topic, you can learn more about Arcane’s impact on sales here.
This crossover between video game and audiovisual entertainment, in the purest style of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, demonstrated that the appeal of these characters goes far beyond the game itself.
- Emotional connection: They allow players to physically connect with their favorite champions, as if they were a character from their favorite movie.
- Gamer identity: Displaying a collection is a way to show your passion and knowledge of the League of Legends universe.
- Collectible item: Each figure is a piece that can appreciate in value, adding an investment component worthy of a cult cinema enthusiast.
This guide is the ideal starting point for both veteran collectors and new summoners who want to understand the value and meaning of having a piece of Runeterra at home.
To start off on the right foot, here’s a small selection of champions that, due to their history and popularity, are almost essential in any self-respecting collection.
Essential champions in your League of Legends Funko Pop collection
A selection of the key champions that every League of Legends Funko Pop collector should consider, highlighting their popularity and role in the game.
| Champion | Main role in game | Popularity in the community | Fun fact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jinx | Marksman (ADC) | Extremely high, cultural icon | Her popularity skyrocketed worldwide thanks to the Arcane series, turning her into a movie star. |
| Ahri | Mage | Very high, a classic | She is one of the oldest and most beloved champions in the game. |
| Yasuo | Fighter/Assassin | Extremely high | Famous for being loved and hated equally in the community, like a good movie antihero. |
| Vi | Fighter | Extremely high, protagonist of Arcane | Her design and lore were greatly expanded in the series. |
| Ashe | Marksman (ADC) | High, foundational champion | She was one of the first eight champions available in the LoL beta. |
These are just a few examples, but the Runeterra universe is gigantic and full of charismatic characters waiting to join your shelf. The final choice will always depend on which champions have marked your story in the video game!
Exploring the complete champion catalog
Diving deep into the Funko Pop League of Legends catalog is like unfurling a treasure map of Runeterra. Each figure is a piece of a giant puzzle that, when completed, tells the story of one of the most complex and rich universes that exist in video games. For a collector, the objective is almost like completing your own Pokédex of champions, and this section is the compass you need so you don’t get lost.
From that first batch of figures with veterans like Ashe, Vi or Lee Sin to the most recent releases that expand the lore, Funko has been assembling an impressive cast. Each new release is a small event, a new opportunity to add to your shelf that champion who has given you so many victories.
And the collection has not only grown in number, but also in quality and detail. The first designs set the course, but over time, the figures have become much more dynamic, capturing the essence of the abilities and personality of each character with a fidelity that surprises.
Release waves by regions and events
Funko usually groups its releases thematically, which makes it much easier to keep track of new releases. It’s a strategy similar to that of Magic: The Gathering sets or World of Warcraft expansions, creating anticipation and giving coherence to collections.
These waves often focus on:
- Runeterra regions: We’ve seen releases focused on champions from Ionia, like Yasuo and Ahri; from the Freljord, with Braum and Ashe; or from Piltover and Zaun, which became immortalized thanks to the Arcane series.
- Special in-game events: Sometimes, the figures coincide with events within League of Legends itself, such as Worlds or the release of new skins.
- Aspects lines (Skins): One of the crown jewels for any collector. We not only have champions in their base version, but also editions based on their most popular aspects, like the spectacular DJ Sona.
This thematic approach allows each person to collect in their own way. Maybe you’re only interested in champions from Noxus, or perhaps your goal is to gather all the members of the K/DA group. There are as many ways to collect as there are to play in the Summoner’s Rift.
The Holy Grail: Chase variants and exclusive editions
This is where collecting gets serious and we enter legendary loot territory. Not all figures are the same, and some variants can turn a normal purchase into an epic find.
Think of ‘Chase’ variants as if you found a shiny Pokémon in the wild. They are rare versions of a standard figure, produced in a much smaller proportion (normally 1 in every 6), that have some subtle but key difference: a different pose, a metallic finish or details that glow in the dark.
In addition to the ‘Chase’, there are exclusive editions, figures that you can only buy in specific stores, events or conventions like San Diego Comic-Con. They usually have special stickers on the box that certify this exclusivity, automatically making them the target of the most dedicated collectors.
A perfect example of how a figure can change the rules of the game is the impact of Arcane. The Vi and Jinx figures inspired by the series were not only bestsellers, but attracted a new wave of fans who maybe weren’t players, but fell in love with the universe through the screen. This shows that knowing which are the best League of Legends champions by popularity can give you a clue about which figures will increase in value over time.
Navigating the different versions
To truly understand the diversity of the catalog, the best thing is a practical example. Let’s think about a champion like Sona, the Virtuosa of the Strings.
- Classic Sona: Her base Funko Pop, which captures her original design from the video game. It’s the standard figure and the easiest to find to start your collection of this character.
- DJ Sona: Based on her definitive look (Ultimate Skin), this figure is much more elaborate. It represents one of the three forms of the skin, is quite larger and more detailed, and is cataloged as a ‘Super Sized’ figure.
This duality repeats with many other champions, giving collectors the option of having both the iconic version and the more spectacular one. Understanding these differences is key to planning your collection and deciding which pieces you want to invest your time and money in. With this map in hand, you’re ready to go out and hunt for your favorite champions.
How to identify the most valuable figures
Don’t be fooled: not all League of Legends Funko Pops have the same value. In the world of collecting, just as it happens in the Rift, there are champions with a passive buff that shoots up their price permanently. Understanding what makes a €15 figure become a piece that reaches three figures is the key to making your collection not only beautiful, but also valuable.
At first, this can seem as overwhelming as facing an enemy hypercarry in the late game. But don’t worry, knowing a couple of basic rules, you’ll quickly learn to distinguish a simple figure from a true treasure. This guide will give you the tools to become a collecting strategist, knowing when a figure is a good investment and when it’s just a piece with sentimental value.
The meaning of exclusivity stickers
The first visual clue that you have something special in your hands is that sticker you see on the box window. They’re not there for decoration; they’re the equivalent of a limited edition badge in the comics world, like a signed first edition of a cult graphic novel.
Each sticker tells a story about where the figure comes from and how rare it is:
- Exclusive: Indicates that the figure was sold exclusively in a specific store or chain (such as GameStop, Hot Topic or here in Spain, Fnac).
- Chase: The most sought-after, without a doubt. It’s an uncommon variant of a normal Funko, with a probability of appearing of 1 in 6. Finding one in a store is like coming across a shiny Pokémon in the wild.
- Convention Exclusive: Reserved for major events like San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) or New York Comic-Con (NYCC). They usually have very small print runs and their value skyrockets almost immediately.
- Special Edition: The international version of the “Exclusive” stickers from stores that don’t operate outside the United States. This ensures that collectors around the world can also snag rare pieces.
Mastering this visual language is your first step to hunting hidden gems on the shelves.
The key concept: vaulted or discontinued
This is where the secondhand market, like eBay or Vinted, becomes a real battlefield. When Funko decides to stop manufacturing a figure, it becomes “vaulted” (archived or, for us, discontinued). It’s like when a film director releases a “director’s cut” years later; the original version becomes harder to find and, therefore, much more desired by purists.
A “vaulted” Funko Pop doesn’t increase in value by magic, but if the character is popular, demand eventually far exceeds supply. This creates the perfect storm that can cause its price to multiply by ten, fifteen or even more.
For example, the first figures of champions like Jinx or Vi, before the Arcane movie sensation, became objects of desire as soon as they were retired. Collectors who grabbed them back then at their normal price made an investment without even realizing it.
The impact of popularity and e-sports
The value of a Funko doesn’t only depend on how rare it is from the factory. Popularity also plays a big role, and a lot of it, in the metagame and the competitive e-sports scene. When a professional player, like the legendary Faker, pulls off an iconic play with a champion at Worlds, the demand for their merchandising skyrockets, and that includes Funko Pops.
A clear example is the Arcane series phenomenon. The best-selling League of Legends Funko Pops in Spain have been, by far, the characters from the series. The Vi model, with EAN 0889698756525, led sales with a 35% market share in large retailers. Its success contributed to LoL merchandising sales rising by 40% during the second season’s broadcast, demonstrating how something external, like a movie or series, can increase the value of an entire collection. If you’re curious, you can explore more data about video game Funko Pops.
Keeping track of which champions are trending in pop culture or breaking it in tournaments gives you a strategic advantage to predict which figures will become the next stars of your shelf.
Guide to detecting counterfeits and avoiding scams
In the world of collecting, counterfeit Funko Pops are like an enemy Teemo hiding in a bush: an invisible danger that can ruin your game and, in this case, your investment. Buying a figure expecting the quality of a Piltover champion and receiving something with the finishing of a minion is one of the worst feelings. But don’t worry, summoner, you have your survival guide here.
Becoming an expert at detecting fakes is like learning to farm: at first it requires all your attention, but with a little practice it becomes almost instinctive. Protecting your collection is key so it’s as authentic and powerful as Garen’s sword itself.
Learning to distinguish an official product is a crucial skill, not only for Funko Pops from League of Legends, but for any merchandise piece that interests you, from classic action figures to items from other video game or movie sagas. This same attention to detail is what allows you to correctly evaluate any piece. For example, if you’re looking for authentic Stranger Things merchandise, the principles for verifying logos and quality are very similar.
The first battlefield: the box
The box is your first line of defense. Funko invests heavily in the quality of their packaging, while counterfeiters usually cut costs right here. Pay close attention to these details, as if you were a detective looking for clues at the crime scene of a movie.
- Cardboard quality: Original boxes use resistant cardboard, with a solid feel and semi-gloss finish. Fake ones, on the other hand, usually use thinner, flimsy material with colors that look washed out or dull.
- Typography and logos: Take a good look at the fonts. Imitations often have typefaces that don’t quite match, blurry text or text that’s not properly aligned. Official Funko and Riot Games logos must be sharp and perfectly defined.
- Plastic window: On an authentic box, the window plastic is well glued and completely transparent. In counterfeits, it’s very common to see glue residue, bubbles or yellowed, poor quality plastic.
The figure under the magnifying glass: details that give it away
Once the box has passed inspection, it’s time to analyze the figure itself. This is where the differences become more obvious, like comparing the graphics of a latest generation video game with those of a retro console.
The level of detail in the paint of an original Funko Pop is much superior. The colors are vibrant and, although there may be the occasional factory flaw, the lines are usually well defined. Counterfeits, on the other hand, usually have paint smudges, colors that don’t match the character and a generally sloppy finish.
A professional trick: pay attention to the serial number. Both the box and the figure itself (normally on the base of the head or on a foot) have a code printed on them. If these numbers don’t match or simply don’t exist, you have a textbook counterfeit on your hands.
So you can get an idea of why counterfeiters choose certain models, this little diagram will help you visualize what factors drive up the value of a figure.
As you can see, being a limited edition or a discontinued figure of a popular champion are the main reasons why a Funko becomes a target for scammers. So keep an eye out for those!
Quick checklist to spot a fake Funko Pop
To make it even easier for you, here’s a table with the key points we’ve discussed. Use it as a quick checklist before buying, especially on secondhand markets.
| Element to Check | How It Should Look on an ORIGINAL Funko | Red Flags on a FAKE Funko |
|---|---|---|
| Cardboard Quality | Resistant, thick and with a semi-gloss finish. | Thin, flimsy, bends easily. Dull colors. |
| Logos and Typography | Sharp, well-defined and perfectly aligned. | Blurry, with incorrect fonts or poorly centered. |
| Plastic Window | Transparent, clean and well-adhered to the box. | Yellowish, with visible glue residue or bubbles. |
| Figure Paint | Vibrant colors and well-defined paint lines. | Stains, incorrect colors, poorly painted details. |
| Serial Number | Present on both the box and the figure (and they should match). | Missing, blurry or numbers don’t match between box and figure. |
Having this cheat sheet handy will help you make quick decisions and avoid getting a knockoff. Over time, you’ll see that spotting a fake becomes almost automatic. Don’t let them fool you!
Where to Buy Your League of Legends Funko Pop Safely
Alright, you now know what figures exist and, most importantly, how to smell a counterfeit from a mile away. The next mission is to know where to farm your Funko Pops without getting ganked. Buying recklessly is like walking into enemy jungle without vision: a stupid risk you don’t want to take. Let us guide you through the maze of physical and online stores so that every purchase is an assured victory.
The collectibles universe has exploded in such a way that today you have options for all tastes. From large retailers to that small neighborhood shop that is a true hidden treasure, like one of those comic book shops from the movies. Knowing the advantages of each place will help you optimize your search and find just that Funko Pop League of Legends that your shelf is missing.
Specialized stores and large retailers
Stores specialized in geek culture and video games are your base of operations, the nexus of your collection. Places like Fnac, GAME or the comic shop in your city not only have the latest releases, but often have points programs, access to exclusive pre-sales and offers that are a delight. Buying here is like playing with your main: you know it won’t let you down.
Most importantly, these stores give you a 100% authenticity guarantee, something vital now that you know how to detect fakes. Plus, the people who work there are usually as passionate as you are and can give you tips about future releases or help you find that figure that’s been eluding you.
Buying at a specialized store gives you a peace of mind that is priceless. It’s the safest path, especially when you’re starting out and your collector’s eye isn’t quite trained yet to separate the wheat from the chaff.
Online platforms and marketplaces
The internet is a giant battlefield where you can find everything, but also where the risks multiply. Platforms like Amazon are a super convenient option because of their fast shipping and almost infinite catalog, although it’s essential to know who you’re really buying from.
Before putting a Funko in your cart, always check these things:
- Who is selling it? Is it Amazon directly or a third-party seller? If it’s a third party, check out their ratings and what other buyers say.
- Product photos: Run away if they only use catalog images. A serious seller will show you real photos of the box from every angle, like it’s a movie scene.
- The price: If a deal sounds too good to be true, like a vaulted Funko at a bargain price, it’s most likely a trap.
On the other hand, second-hand markets like Vinted or Wallapop are a goldmine for finding discontinued figures or rare editions. Here the key is communication. Don’t be shy about asking for more photos, inquiring about the box condition and, most importantly, use the buyer protection systems they offer.
Smart shopping ecosystems
One of the smartest ways to shop online is through specialized pages that do the dirty work for you and redirect you to the best safe deals, for example, within Amazon. This gives you the best of both worlds: the variety of a huge marketplace with the trust filter of someone who knows what they’re talking about.
This system is perfect. Imagine you want to buy the t-shirt of your favorite champion, Jinx. Well, from that same website, you can find a reliable link to also get her Funko Pop. It’s a curated ecosystem that saves you time and gives you the guarantee that you’re in a safe environment, protecting your money and ensuring that your collection grows only with authentic and quality pieces.
The care manual for your collection
Your Funko Pops are more than simple figures; they are authentic trophies. Each champion on your shelf is like a legendary item you’ve obtained in a quest in a video game and, as such, deserves the same care you would give to your favorite late game item.
Protecting your collection is not only a matter of keeping it pristine. It’s also key to preserving its value in the long term and turning your gamer corner into a true museum dedicated to Runeterra.
The eternal dilemma: inside or outside the box?
The first big decision every collector must make is almost as intense as choosing between Demacia and Noxus: do I take the figure out of the box or leave it as is? Don’t worry, there’s no correct answer, only the one that best suits you.
If you see them as a future investment, keeping them in their original box is the winning strategy. An intact box, with perfect corners and without a scratch, maximizes its resale value. It’s the equivalent of keeping it in mint condition, like a collector’s comic.
On the other hand, if what you want is to enjoy every detail, freeing them from their cardboard prison will allow you to create a much more lively and personal display. You’ll be able to appreciate the design work and place them however you like, creating your own movie scene.
How to protect your champions from the elements
No matter what you decide, your figures have two clear arch-enemies: dust and sun. Direct sunlight is like a Nocturne ultimate on colors: over time, it causes discoloration that can’t be reversed. Always look for a spot away from windows to set up your collection.
Dust, although not as destructive, is a constant nuisance. To keep your champions ready for battle, here are some tricks:
- If the figure is out of the box: A soft makeup brush or small brush is your best weapon. It will allow you to remove dust from all the nooks and crannies without damaging the paint. If there’s a stubborn stain, a cotton swab slightly damp with water (no chemicals!) is usually enough.
- If the figure is in its box: A dry microfiber cloth is perfect for keeping the plastic and cardboard shiny. For extra protection, consider using transparent plastic protectors. They’re like cheap armor but very effective against impacts, scratches and, of course, dust.
Build your own Runeterra museum
A good display can completely transform a simple collection and turn it into the center of attention in your room. The options are almost endless. You can use anything from simple shelves to display cases with LED lighting that will make each figure look fresh out of a League of Legends cinematic.
Glass display cases are a great option, because they not only protect against dust, but also allow you to enjoy a 360-degree view of your champions, as if you were in a nerd art gallery.
The impact of these figures is undeniable. Since their arrival in Spain, it is estimated that Funko Pop League of Legends figures have sold about 250,000 units annually, which represents 18% of the total Pop! figures sold in the country. A true phenomenon of urban culture.
Taking care of your collection is a fundamental part of this hobby. With these simple tips, you’ll make sure your champions always look like new. And if you’re thinking about expanding your ranks, you can check out our selection of Funko Pop figures to find your next acquisition.
The questions every collector asks themselves
Getting into the world of Funko Pop League of Legends is like entering a match for the first time: suddenly, you have a thousand questions. We’ve gathered here the most typical questions from the community, those that we’ve all asked ourselves at some point, to give you clear and straightforward answers. Think of it as your own support chat to become a true master collector of this video game.
What was the first Funko Pop League of Legends?
Funko’s adventure through Runeterra started with a first wave that set the path for everything that came after. The champions chosen for that big debut were, as could only be expected, completely iconic figures and deeply loved by the community. This first batch included legends like Ashe, Lee Sin, Thresh, Vi, Jinx and Amumu.
That initial launch was a huge hit and made it clear that players were eager to have a physical version of their favorite heroes and villains. This opened the door to one of the largest and most sought-after collections within the gamer and video game universe.
What exactly does it mean for a Funko to be vaulted?
The word “vaulted” is one of those key terms that any self-respecting collector should master. When Funko decides to stop manufacturing a figure, it becomes considered vaulted, which basically means “retired” or “stored in the vault”. It’s the brand’s way of saying: “that’s as far as we’ve gone, we’re not going to produce any more of this model”.
Note, this doesn’t mean its value will skyrocket overnight like a Jinx rocket. However, if the character is popular and people still love it, scarcity in the secondary market usually causes its price to increase quite a bit, making it a highly coveted target for serious collectors.
Is it better to keep Funko Pop figures in or out of the box?
This is the big debate, the true Summoner’s Rift that divides the collector community. The truth is there’s no right answer, because it all depends on what you want them for.
- For investors and purists: If your goal is to keep the figure’s resale value or you’re just obsessed with how it looks in its original packaging, the decision is clear. You need to keep it “mint in-box” (pristine in its box). A box in perfect condition is essential for it to reach its maximum market value, just like a first edition comic.
- For those who enjoy displaying: If what matters most to you is aesthetics, building dioramas or simply seeing every little detail of the figure, taking it out of the box is perfectly valid. It allows you a more personal connection and lets you create a much more dynamic and visually striking display.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Are you a collector seeking the Holy Grail or a fan who wants to have your champions ready for battle on the shelf? Both options are equally respectable in this hobby.
Ready to take your passion for Runeterra beyond the screen? At Geek T-Shirt Store you’ll find incredible designs inspired by your favorite champions so you can show your loyalty to League of Legends in style. Explore our collection and find your next favorite t-shirt.