Since its inception, Hasbro Pulse’s VHS Collection figures have been a haven for exclusive characters and repaints inspired by the beloved 1990s animated versions of iconic franchises like X-Men and Spider-Man. Typically released in two-packs, these figures, adorned with deco specific to their animated counterparts, pay homage to the era of VHS tapes with packaging reminiscent of those nostalgic video cassettes found in big box stores.
In this latest offering, Hasbro brings together Hydro-Man and Daredevil, two fan-favourite characters who have made their mark in vastly different ways, including appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe Spider-Man movies. Daredevil, famously known as the man without fear, is equipped with his signature billy club and features a cel-shaded shadow effect, giving him a dynamic appearance reminiscent of action-packed comics and cartoons.
On the other hand, Hydro-Man boasts translucent plastic construction to simulate flowing water, accompanied by two water effects that can be used either for support or to simulate attacks against adversaries, wrapping around their legs for added realism. Unlike his cinematic counterpart, this version of Hydro-Man, named Morris Bench, is a bona fide criminal capable of transforming his body into liquid form at will.
While these two characters never crossed paths on the animated series, Daredevil typically intervened in conflicts involving Kingpin, though he also encountered adversaries like Smythe and Chameleon. Given Daredevil’s heightened senses, particularly his acute hearing, it’s plausible that his abilities would provide an edge in any confrontation near running water. Interestingly, Hydro-Man rose to prominence in the Spider-Man cartoon due to legal constraints preventing the use of Sandman, leading to the character’s increased significance in the series.
This Hydro-Man vs. Daredevil Figure Set not only celebrates the enduring popularity of these characters but also serves as a delightful addition to any collector’s ensemble, offering a nostalgic trip back to the animated adventures of the 1990s Spider-Man series.
