This week sees the release of Wolfenstein: Youngblood, the latest installment in the long-running FPS franchise that is set in a demented version of World War II where the Nazis have developed all kinds of insane super-technology. Thankfully that didn’t happen in our universe, but the conflict was responsible for some incredible leaps in human innovation on both sides, for better or for worse. Once you’ve finished the game, why not re-enact the last war where the good guys were good and the bad guys were bad with these incredible WWII toys.
M24 Chaffee Tank Model
Machines of war were the deciding factor in so many WWII battles – infantry just couldn’t match up to the tanks and planes on either side, and getting armor into position could tip a conflict real quick. The Allies had a number of solid rides, but the M24 light tank was the ultimate evolution of the concept. Introduced towards the end of the war, the M24 didn’t even see conflict in some areas but was deployed well into the 1960s around the world. This high-quality diecast metal and plastic model is built to 1:32 scale and comes pre-assembled to fend off Axis forces on your toy shelf.
1/6 Scale 442nd Regimental Combat Team Figure
The treatment of United States citizens of Japanese origin during World War II is one of the most shameful actions taken by the Allies, but that didn’t stop brave Japanese-Americans from fighting for the country that did them wrong. The 442nd was comprised of Japanese American draftees from Hawaii and went into combat in May of 1944. Despite their short time in the field, the 442nd became one of the most decorated units in the U.S. military for their bravery and ability. This detailed 1/6 scale figure depicts a fictional member of the team, “Yoshi Oshimo,” in full regalia with tons of articulation and accessories.
Aircraft Carrier With Six WWII Planes
When you’re fighting on a global scale, the old rules just don’t apply. One of the key advantages in World War II was mobility – the side that could get its forces where they needed to be quickly and safely almost always had a leg up. Japan deployed the first aircraft carriers in the early 1920s, and by World War II they were a key part of military strategy. This carrier measures 2 and a half feet long and comes with a half dozen die-cast metal replicas of a variety of WWII era planes, so you can dogfight to your heart’s content.
Willys Jeep With Trailer
One of the most popular military vehicles of all time, the Willys MB entered production in 1941 and were churned out in tremendous numbers for the Allies during World War II. Over half a million of them were made, making up a quarter of all non-combat vehicles. The Jeep was iconic on the European front, replacing horses as a way to transport manpower and small equipment as well as providing support in dozens of other ways. This ridiculously detailed replica from the folks at AUTOart weighs in at over two pounds with tons of diecast metal, steerable wheels and other features.
Zero Model Kit
The Japanese A6M Zero was one of the most feared fighters in the sky, both for its performance and the dogged aggression of its pilots. Introduced early in the war, its maneuverability and range made it a true threat, as evidenced by its 12-1 kill ratio in dogfights. As the Allies improved their air capabilities, the Zero became less of a threat but was also adapted to kamikaze missions. This plastic model kit from the legends at Revell is full of quality detailing, including a seated pilot figure, rotating prop and center drop tank.
Elite Force British Commando Unit Figure
Warfare is always changing, and with the scope of World War II creating engagements across the Continent, the Allies knew they needed to adapt. In 1940, Churchill ordered the formation of a unit that could conduct small-scale raids in Axis-occupied territory and escape intact. They carried out numerous missions that helped turn the tide of the war. One of the most notably units was the 2nd, which saw them assault the docks at St. Nazaire during Operation Chariot and put the port out of commission. This Elite Force figure has period-accurate real cloth uniforming and weaponry and is heavily poseable.
Remote Controlled King Tiger Tank
The Tiger II or “King Tiger” was one of Germany’s most terrifying military vehicles, a deceptively agile heavy tank that sported four to seven inches of armor plating. Deployed late in the war, they made an impact at the Battle of Ardennes and in Hungary, taking out Allied units with ease despite some mechanical problems. If you want to cut one of these bad boys loose, this remote-controlled model from Heng Long is where it’s at. With seven-way movement and powerful gripping treads that let it climb inclines up to 45 degrees, you can line up the perfect shot from its 320-degree swivel cannon that blasts Airsoft rounds with a smoke effect. Very cool.
Ultimate Soldier Fallshirmjager Figure
The German Fallshirmjager were the premiere paratroopers of the Axis forces, known as the “Green Devils” by Americans due to their ferocity in staging attacks from the air. This ultra-accurate figure from Ultimate Soldier depicts one as he’d go into action during the Gran Sasso raid, when the Germans swooped in to pull Benito Mussolini’s fat from the fire after he was replaced by the King. The raid was a daring one, involving paratroopers jumping from gliders into the Apennine Mountains. Figure comes with all sorts of stuff —parachute, grenades, rifle, flare gun, webbed helmet and tons more. He’s ready to make the big jump to rescue one of the biggest pieces of trash in human history.
E-Flite Spitfire Mk XIV
The only British fighter produced continually throughout the war, the Spitfire was one of the most dependable air units the Allies had to deploy. After the Battle of Britain, its low attrition rate led it to become a key part of the RAF’s strategy. If you’ve always wanted to take one of these babies up into the air yourself, E-Flite has the answer. Measuring 50 inches from nose to tail and constructed from lightweight but durable Z-foam material, this isn’t an RC plane for newbies but pros praise the smooth handling and responsive flap action.
Axis & Allies Anniversary Edition
One of the most successful and influential wargames ever, Avalon Hill’s Axis & Allies (originally designed by Larry Harris) lets players take command of the major powers on both sides of the conflict and try to lead them to military victory by capturing key strategic cities. Resource management plays a heavy role, and a full game can take as long as six hours to grind through. Nobody ever said war was easy. This anniversary edition features the largest A&A board ever made, along with over 650 plastic miniatures, 14 dice and more. Think you could do better than Churchill and Stalin? Here’s your chance to prove it.
U-Boat Type VIIC Model Kit
In the early stages of the war, the Germans had the undisputed tactical advantage on the water due to their advanced submarine programs. The dreaded U-Boats could attack from out of nowhere, sinking ships and then disappearing beneath the waves to avoid reprisal. It wasn’t until the end of 1943 that the Allies were able to mount effective countermeasures against them. One of the most common and dependable subs in the Axis fleet, the Type VIIC was seen all over the world. This huge and detailed model from ARKMODEL measures over three feet long and can be adapted to serve as the housing for a remote control engine if you want to get serious, which we know you do.
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