Turn Yourself or Your Heroes into Collectible Legends

After the viral Ghibli-style trend, the internet is now flooded with a new wave of nostalgia: the classic action figure packaging trend. From Instagram to Reddit, creators everywhere are turning themselves and their favorite icons into vintage-style collectible figures, complete with accessories and retro blister pack designs.

The best part? You don’t need professional design software or years of experience. Thanks to ChatGPT’s new image generation update, you can bring your own action figure idea to life in just minutes, all you need is a photo and the right prompt.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to create your own custom action figure toy packaging, using Lionel Messi as a working example. We’ll also give you a reusable prompt template so you can personalize the design for yourself or any other character.

 
🧰 What You Need to Get Started

To create your own custom action figure mockup, you’ll need:

  • ✅ ChatGPT (with updated image generation)
  • ✅ A high-quality photo of the character (yourself, a friend, or a public figure)
  • ✅ A list of relevant accessories (props, trophies, gear, etc.)
  • ✅ A clear theme or style (retro, sci-fi, sports, fantasy, etc.)

 
⚽ Example: Lionel Messi Action Figure Prompt

To give you a real-world example, here’s a prompt used to create a Lionel Messi action figure complete with accessories and packaging:

Prompt:
Create a highly detailed mockup of an action figure toy packaging titled “Lionel Messi”, inspired by classic collectible blister packs. Use the provided photo of Lionel Messi as the character base. The packaging should include a vibrant cardboard backing with dynamic graphics, Messi’s name in bold, and themed design elements (e.g., Argentine flag patterns, FC Barcelona colors). Include a transparent plastic blister showcasing the figure and accessories such as a football, World Cup trophy, football cleats, and an FC Barcelona badge. Add a retro-modern aesthetic, with “Ages 8+”, a collector number, and the tagline “Greatest of All Time Edition”.

You can easily customize this prompt to create your own version—just swap out the name, image, and accessories.

 
🎨 How to Create Your Own Action Figure Mockup

Follow these steps to make your own figure:

1. Choose Your Character or Persona

It could be you, a friend, a fictional character, or a celebrity. Use a front-facing, well-lit photo for best results.

2. List the Accessories

What defines your character? These will go inside the blister pack:

  • For a gamer: joystick, headset, keyboard
  • For a chef: frying pan, spatula, chef’s hat
  • For a superhero: mask, cape, energy weapon
  • For a content creator: mic, laptop, camera

3. Pick a Theme

Decide on a visual style for the packaging:

  • Retro 80s or 90s vibe
  • Sleek modern collectibles
  • Comic-book or anime aesthetic
  • Team/sports branding

4. Use This Customizable Prompt Template

Here’s a plug-and-play prompt you can modify:

Custom Action Figure Prompt Template: Create a highly detailed mockup of an action figure toy packaging titled “[Your Character’s Name]“. Use the provided photo as the figure base. The packaging should include a vibrant cardboard backing with [Your Chosen Design Style] and bold lettering. A transparent plastic blister cover should showcase the figure prominently. Include accessories such as [List of Custom Accessories]. The overall style should be a blend of retro and modern collectible design. Add an “Ages 8+” label, a collector number, and a creative tagline like “[Your Tagline]”.

You might also like: Top 25+ Animated Art Styles like Ghibli for ChatGPT

 
📸 Tips for Best Results

  • Use high-res images with a clear face and distinct pose
  • Stick to 3–5 accessories max to avoid visual clutter
  • Keep the design cohesive: match packaging colors to the figure’s theme
  • Include your own logo or tagline to personalize further

The classic action figure trend is more than a meme, it’s a creative movement. With AI tools like ChatGPT, you can generate toy packaging mockups that are both nostalgic and unique, all with a simple prompt.

Whether you’re crafting a GOAT Messi figure, turning yourself into a cyberpunk warrior, or making a keepsake for a loved one, the process is fun, fast, and surprisingly powerful.

So grab a photo, dream up your accessories, and bring your own action figure legend to life.