ESCI Figures – Playsets

Playsets

The word ‘playset’ is defined in online dictionaries as “A themed collection of similar toys designed to work together to enact some action or event”. In the context of military figures, this usually means a package of opposing sets of contemporary figures, plus terrain pieces to suit. Such sets are great presents: they create a convenient and immediate play environment for owners, and if produced with a care for historical accuracy, can be educational.

Minic Ships – Sets

Sets

Toy manufacturers often group items from their ranges together and sell them in sets. Minic was no exception and immediately the range was launched, began producing a number of boxed bundles. So, what is it about sets that would tempt the prospective buyer? Several reasons suggest themselves. Perhaps there will be a cost saving; a set might contain something unique that cannot be purchased separately; or maybe the boxed presentation is just more convenient and attractive in some way.

Dinky Military – Combinations

Combinations

Toy ranges often include items that work best in combination with others. Sometimes this combination is essential – without one item, a second has no purpose. For example, what use is a tank transporter without a tank to transport? At other times, items have a more generic role and can work well with many other models. A bridge-layer, for example, lays a bridge that a whole convoy can cross over, and a recovery tractor may pull a variety of wayward vehicles out of ditches or bogs, and tow them to a repair depot.

These combinations provide great play scenarios, and manufacturers like them as they encourage sales and provide natural subjects for sets. Dinky made many. Let’s take a look at one of the most well-known of these, the 25-pounder gun, limber and tractor.