Diamond Select Toys and Valiant Debut New X-O Manowar/Bloodshot Minimates Two-Pack Exclusively at Toys“R”Us

Two of the greatest heroes of the Valiant Universe have stepped into the three dimensional world with an all-new Valiant Minimates two-pack from Diamond Select Toys (DST), now available exclusively at Toys“R”Us^® stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com! The alien-armored, Visigoth hero X-O Manowar and indestructible commando Bloodshot make their Minimate debut in a specially designed two-pack that comes complete with both heroes’ signature accessories, alternate parts, and an exclusive, never-before-seen Valiant comic book insert. Each Valiant Minimates two-pack also includes a free comic book digital download offer, powered by comiXology.

“Valiant's fans around the world have continuously requested figurines of their favorite characters," said Russell A. Brown, President of Consumer Products, Promotions, and Ad Sales for Valiant Entertainment. "We are thrilled to bring two of our classic heroes to Toys“R”Us for the first time with Valiant Minimates, giving fans old and new an opportunity to get to know our exciting line of characters with value added offerings. And, we are delighted to join the ranks of the top intellectual property characters to be represented in Minimates form.”

“The Valiant Universe is one of the premier comic book universes, with a history of creative storytelling, detailed  character design and fantastic artwork,” said Chuck Terceira, President of Diamond Select Toys. “The fact that it has not had more merchandise has always been a mystery to me, and when the opportunity arose for DST to create some of Valiant’s first collectible toys, we were all excited to be on board.”

Born into battle, Aric of Dacia, the fifth century Visigoth now called X-O Manowar, has never known peace. Abducted and enslaved by the savage alien empire known as The Vine, Aric finally escaped his captors after stealing their ultra-powerful X-O Manowar armor and then returned to Earth…only to find that more than a thousand years had passed in his absence. Stranded in the modern day, the most primitive man on Earth now wields the most powerful weapon in existence as X-O Manowar.

Brought back from the dead and infused with cutting-edge nanotechnology, Bloodshot’s nanites made him a nearly unstoppable killing machine. His enhanced strength, speed, endurance and healing made him the perfect weapon, and he served his masters at Project Rising Spirit – a private contractor trafficking in violence – very well. But after defying his programming and escaping his captors, Bloodshot now fights to rediscover to the secret of his true identity – but remains haunted by the past that nearly destroyed him.

Minimates, owned by Diamond Select Toys and Collectibles, are two inches tall, with 14 points of articulation, and feature multiple interchangeable parts and accessories. They were first released in 2002, and have grown into the largest and most diverse line of block figures in the world.

Plus, coming to comic book stores this April, don’t miss the X-O Manowar and Bloodshot Minimates Battle-Damaged two-pack – a Previews-exclusive offering featuring combat-hardened alternative looks for two of most Valiant's formidable heroes, from the best-selling story arcs Harbinger Wars and Planet Death!