POWER UP BOX (review)

Review by Stefan Blitz

I recently had the opportunity to review a Premium Power Up Box, described as “a monthly subscription service that includes geeky, gamer, and pop culture gear. The Power Up Box team goes around the country searching for the best gear there is to assure an epic box every month, every time. We want you to have a “Christmas morning, gift opening experience,” 12 times a year!“

Power Up Box is one of a number of monthly subscription boxes available that are aimed toward the geek audience.  Two different tiers are available.  The Premium Box includes 6-9 epic hand-picked items with a value of up to $70 (cost is $29.95 + $9.95 shipping) and the Deluxe Box includes 4-6 epic hand-picked items with a value of up to $50 (cost is $19.95 + $6.95 shipping).  There are several different subscription options available which will adjust the price slightly.

Let’s see what’s inside.

Batman Arkham Knight #1

I’m a huge Batman fan, but I’m not a gamer.

This collects the first three chapters of the digital title and is written by Peter Tomasi, who’s work I enjoy.

As a bridging comic between games, it works and is a cool inclusion.

Power Up Swag

Includes a lanyard, button and bag.

In other words, advertising, and of no interest.

Funko Batman Fabrikations Plush

This plush looks like a cuddly doll, but it’s actually a display figure (it’s legs are weighted to stand up).

Like I mentioned, I love Batman, and this is a nice addition, but in all honesty, it’s not really something I would put in my office.  It’s not as adorable as the traditional Funko Pop! vinyl figures; it’s just a lumpy Batman.

Batman Logo T-Shirt

The essential item in everyone’s closet.

The only thing is that this one is made from very thin material and it was sent it to me in the wrong size.

I’m told that it will be corrected.

Funko Marvel Mystery Mini (Loki)

This blind box toy is pretty well sculpted and dare I say, my favorite thing in the box.

This one goes on the desk.

Pocket Pop! Keychain (Raphael)

It doesn’t hurt that Raph is my favorite Ninja Turtle.

This felt like a Batman themed box, but apparently it isn’t.

I certainly would never use this as a keychain, but I might remove the chain and add him to the desk.

Cowabunga!

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Lollipop Rings

Yay!  Year old candy from last summer’s flop.








So, that’s the round-up.  The selections are at least thematically in sync (I’m guessing super-heroes) and unlike some of the other subscription boxes it isn’t padded with amateur fan art.  Overall, the tchotkes are likely appealing to folks who love them.  It might be a sign of age, but I just don’t understand the appeal of most of the items.