NECA Ultimates Advanced Dungeons & Dragons

The Return of Warduke and the Legends of Greyhawk

When NECA announced they were taking the helm of the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons license, the collecting world took notice. Moving far beyond the limited articulation of the 1980s LJN originals, the NECA Ultimates line brings iconic characters like Warduke, Strongheart, and Elkhorn into the modern era. These are not just action figures; they are meticulously sculpted tributes to the legendary artwork of the AD&D manuals. With the recent addition of the 50th Anniversary “Retro Carded” variants, collectors can now choose between premium Ultimate boxed editions or nostalgia-driven blister cards that mirror the original 1980s releases. With high-end paint applications and “Ultimate” level articulation, these figures allow fans to finally display these heroes and villains in the dynamic poses they deserve.

How to Use This Market Index

NECA figures often follow a specific market cycle: they are widely available at launch via specialty retailers like the NECA Store, BigBadToyStore, and Target, but once they go “Out of Production,” prices on the secondary market tend to climb rapidly. This is especially true for highly nostalgic characters like Warduke or accessory-heavy releases like Elkhorn. This guide is updated quarterly to help you track current valuations and avoid the steep markups often found on the aftermarket.

🗓️ Market Update: May 2026 | Next Update Scheduled: September 2026

Our evaluation criteria include:

  • MSRP Reference: The original price at retail (usually ranging from $29.99 for Retro Cards to $39.99 for standard Ultimates).

  • Current Market Value: Real-time sales data from eBay, specialized toy auctions, and private collector groups as of early 2026.

  • Rarity Rating: A measure of how difficult the figure is to find in “New in Box” (NIB) condition, factoring in production status and store-exclusives.

  • Pro Tips: Expert advice on joint care (essential for NECA figures), accessory management, and identifying the best versions of each character.

NECA Ultimates Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Price Guide

NAMEDATECLASSORIG. RETAILCURRENT SECONDARYRARITYPRO TIPS
Grimsword2022Ultimate$37.99$35–$45CommonMuted colors; check for paint slop on the snake mace.
Warduke2022Ultimate$37.99$45–$60RareThe grail. Demon-winged helmet is fragile; handle with care.
Warduke (50th)2024Retro Card$31.99$50–$70UncommonFeatures a brighter “retro” paint deco; keep sealed for value.
Strongheart2023Ultimate$34.99$30–$40UncommonCloth cape can fray; ensure the articulated visor moves smoothly.
Strongheart (50th)2024Retro Card$29.99$30–$45CommonBest version for LJN purists. Sword fits tight in sheath.
Zarak2023Ultimate$34.99$35–$45CommonGrappling hook rope is easy to tangle; store separately.
Zarak (50th)2024Retro Card$29.99$35–$45CommonIncludes fewer accessories than Ultimate but has better card art.
Elkhorn2023Ultimate$39.99$30–$45RareAccessory king. The Heartstone is tiny—do not lose it.
Elkhorn (50th)2024Retro Card$29.99$40–$60UncommonLimited production. The Gutbuster jug is a highlight.

Key changes

  • Warduke (Ultimate): Raised to $45–$60 from recent average sold of $52 (high $60+ range), confirming its grail status.

  • Strongheart (Ultimate): Lowered to $30–$40 based on $33.53 average sold auctions (low $25, high $40).

  • Elkhorn (Ultimate): Dropped to $30–$45 from $36.22 average sold (low $15, high $58).

  • Others held or minor tweaks aligned with market signals near retail.

Price Fluctuation Warning: Secondary market prices can change rapidly due to collector demand, rarity, condition (mint vs. opened), reissues, anniversaries, and overall market trends. New releases often start near retail but may rise with scarcity; older figures can drop if restocked or fall if demand cools.