Bandai Namco has confirmed that a selection of its immensely popular Animal Crossing: New Horizons flocked figures will return to retail this fall, offering collectors and fans a second chance to pick up ten beloved characters at an accessible price point. The toys, which first launched in Japan in early 2021 and continued through multiple waves into 2022, are scheduled to reappear in Japanese stores starting September 2026 at a cost of 500 yen each, which translates to approximately $3 USD. Unlike many collectible figure lines that rely on blind box mechanics, these are sold as individual, identifiable purchases, meaning buyers will know exactly which character they are getting before they open the package. Given the distribution pattern of the original releases, which eventually expanded beyond Japan to major retailers such as Amazon and other global outlets, a worldwide rollout is anticipated to follow the initial Japanese launch. The returning lineup draws from all three original volumes of the flocked figure series, creating a curated assortment that spans some of the most recognizable faces from the Animal Crossing universe.
Which Characters Are Returning in the September 2026 Rerun
The ten-figure collection represents a deliberate cross-section of the three previously released volumes. From the first volume, five characters are making a return: Dom the energetic sheep, Flurry the adorable hamster, Isabelle the ever-helpful secretary, Marshall the perpetually grumpy yet charming squirrel, and Tom Nook the entrepreneurial raccoon who famously oversees the island’s infrastructure and loan system. The second volume contributes four characters: K.K. Slider, the traveling musician whose weekly performances have become a franchise staple; Raymond the business-cat with his distinctive heterochromia and sleek gray coat; and the inseparable twin raccoons Timmy and Tommy, who run the island’s store with relentless enthusiasm. The sole representative from the third volume is Judy, the pastel-hued bear cub whose iridescent fur and large, expressive eyes made her an instant fan favorite when she first appeared. This mix ensures that both long-time collectors and newcomers will find familiar faces across the entire run of the original toy line.
Product Details and What Comes in the Box
Each figure stands under two inches in height, though there is some variation among the characters, with smaller residents like Flurry and Marshall measuring slightly less than the others. Every figure ships with a clear plastic display stand, allowing collectors to pose and present them without any additional accessories. A piece of gum is also included inside each box, a charming nod to the candy-and-toy tradition common in Japanese gashapon and capsule-style collectibles. The figures themselves are flocked, meaning they feature a soft, velvety texture that distinguishes them from standard hard plastic miniatures, giving each character a tactile quality that enhances their appeal as display pieces. The flocked finish also adds a level of visual warmth that suits the cozy, inviting aesthetic of the Animal Crossing franchise.
Historical Context and What This Means for Collectors
The original flocked figure series debuted in early 2021, riding the massive wave of popularity that Animal Crossing: New Horizons experienced following its 2020 release. The first volume introduced many of the franchise’s core characters, while the second and third volumes expanded the roster to include fan-favorite villagers and recurring NPCs. The third volume specifically arrived in 2022, by which point the series had already established itself as a staple of Animal Crossing merchandise. The decision to re-release these figures now, more than four years after the initial launch, speaks to the enduring popularity of both the game and its characters. For collectors who missed the original windows, this rerun represents a straightforward opportunity to acquire figures that have become increasingly difficult to find through standard retail channels. Bandai Namco has confirmed that these rereleases are identical to the original production runs, so anyone who already owns figures from the earlier volumes should not expect any differences in sculpting, flocking, or packaging. The figures are not being updated or modified in any way, which is good news for those who want consistency but also means there is no new variant to chase.
Pricing, Availability, and the Path to Global Retail
At 500 yen each, the pricing remains consistent with the original releases, making these figures one of the most affordable officially licensed Animal Crossing collectibles on the market. The lack of a blind box system is a significant advantage for collectors who prefer to purchase specific characters without the uncertainty and potential duplication inherent in randomized packaging. The initial launch window focuses on Japan, with September 2026 marked as the start date for domestic sales. Bandai Namco’s distribution history with this product line suggests that a wider international release will follow, likely within a few months of the Japanese debut. The original figures eventually became available through Amazon and various specialty retailers across North America, Europe, and other regions, and the same pattern is expected for this rerun. Given that the game remains actively played on both the original Nintendo Switch and the recently released Switch 2, the audience for these figures remains substantial and engaged.
Visual Overview of the Full Character Lineup
Bandai Namco has released official images showing each of the ten figures in their final production form. The gallery includes individual shots of Dom, Flurry, Isabelle, Marshall, Tom Nook, K.K. Slider, Raymond, Timmy, Tommy, and Judy, all presented with the flocked texture and clear display stands that define this product line. The images confirm that the characters retain their signature design details, from Isabelle’s pink bow and bell collar to Tom Nook’s apron and leaf emblem, and from K.K. Slider’s guitar and trademark fedora to Raymond’s unique eye colors and glasses. The flocked finish is clearly visible in the promotional photography, giving each figure a soft, almost plush-like appearance that photographs well and distinguishes them from standard PVC miniatures. The display stands are unobtrusive and designed to keep the figures upright without distracting from the character designs.
Why This Rerun Matters for the Animal Crossing Community
The return of these flocked figures arrives at a time when Animal Crossing: New Horizons continues to maintain a dedicated player base, supported by ongoing updates, seasonal events, and the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2 hardware. Merchandise for the franchise remains in high demand, and official Nintendo-licensed products often sell out quickly during their initial releases. For many players, physical collectibles like these figures serve as tangible extensions of their in-game experiences, allowing them to bring a piece of their island life into the real world. The inclusion of characters from all three volumes means that even collectors who previously purchased some of the figures will find new additions available in this wave. Judy, in particular, has become one of the most sought-after villagers in the game since her introduction, and her inclusion in this selection will likely drive significant interest. The relatively low price point also makes these figures accessible to younger fans and casual collectors who may not be willing to invest in more expensive premium statues or imported goods.
Technical Specifications and Display Considerations
Each figure stands under two inches tall, making them suitable for display in small spaces, on desks, or as part of a larger collection of miniatures. The clear plastic stands are designed to be nearly invisible, allowing the figures to appear as though they are standing on their own while providing necessary stability. The flocked texture is durable enough for handling but should be kept away from moisture and excessive dust to maintain its soft finish. Collectors who intend to display these figures in direct sunlight should be aware that flocked surfaces can fade over time if exposed to prolonged UV light, so a shaded shelf or cabinet is recommended for long-term preservation. The figures are not articulated and come in static poses, each character captured in a characteristic stance that reflects their in-game personality. The packaging is minimal and collector-friendly, with each box clearly labeled with the character name and artwork, further reinforcing the non-blind nature of the product.
Looking at the Broader Animal Crossing Merchandise Landscape
The flocked figures represent just one thread in a vast tapestry of Animal Crossing merchandise that spans plush toys, amiibo cards, clothing collaborations, stationery, home goods, and more. Bandai Namco’s candy toy division has been a consistent producer of Animal Crossing-themed collectibles since the franchise’s early days, and the flocked figure line has proven to be one of its most enduring successes. The decision to re-release these figures rather than produce an entirely new volume suggests that the company recognizes both the sustained demand for these specific characters and the logistical efficiency of returning to an established production line. It also hints that fans should not necessarily expect a fourth volume of entirely new characters in the immediate future, though the door remains open if demand warrants further expansion. For now, the focus is on making existing designs available to a new wave of collectors who may have missed the original opportunities.
Practical Advice for Prospective Buyers
For those planning to purchase these figures, the most important consideration is timing. The Japanese release in September 2026 will likely be the first opportunity to secure the full set, and import retailers will probably list them shortly after the domestic launch. Buyers who prefer to wait for local distribution through Amazon or other major retailers should expect availability to follow within a few months, though specific dates have not been announced. Given that these are not limited editions or blind boxes, there is less urgency than with some collectible releases, but popular characters like Raymond and Judy may still sell out quickly in the initial wave. Collectors who want to guarantee a complete set should consider pre-ordering through reputable import shops or waiting for official international pre-order windows to open. The identical production quality to the original releases means that there is no advantage to seeking out first-run figures, and the rerun will offer the same flocked finish, stand, and gum inclusion as the 2021-2022 versions.
The Bottom Line on This Fall’s Animal Crossing Figure Release
Bandai Namco’s decision to bring back these flocked figures is a win for collectors, fans, and anyone who appreciates well-made, affordable licensed merchandise. The ten-character selection covers a strong mix of icons and fan favorites, the pricing is reasonable, and the non-blind box format removes the frustration of randomized purchasing. The September 2026 Japanese launch sets the stage for what will likely become a widely available international release, giving players around the world a chance to own a piece of their favorite game in physical form. Whether displayed on a desk, shelf, or alongside other Animal Crossing memorabilia, these figures capture the charm and personality that have made the series a global phenomenon. For those who missed the original releases, this rerun is the perfect opportunity to fill the gaps in their collection without paying inflated aftermarket prices. For those who already own the complete set, there is nothing new to chase, but the enduring appeal of these characters means that even veteran collectors may find themselves picking up duplicates for trade or display purposes. Either way, the return of these flocked figures is a welcome development for the Animal Crossing community and a sign that the franchise’s merchandise ecosystem remains as vibrant as the game itself.
