Memory Lane has gotten the rights to make a line of figures based on the original Peanuts Gang. But, rather than just churn out a handful of characters with no direction in the set, they've decided to pattern each line after one of the Charlie Brown cartoons.

First up: "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" - This line includes Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Sally, Schroeder and Lucy. Each figure is accurate to their cartoon representation and come with a pumpkin patch base (except Schroeder, who comes with his piano) and an additional item, like Lucy's witch outfit or Linus' security blanket. Also available is a playset with Snoopy dressed as the flying ace on top of his dog house. The playset comes with spooky sounds, light-up pumpkins and can actually be placed with the stands of the figures to make a larger pumpkin patch.

Also headed to stores is a line based on "Good Ol' Charlie Brown", which includes Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Peppermint Patty, Sally, Lucy, Schroeder, Pig-Pen, and Linus. There is also a playset with Sally in her classroom for this line.

I will say where the figures may lack in detail and poseability (they have a few essential points of articulation) they more than make up in capturing the nostalgia and essence of Schultz's characters in 3D form. They're put together with quality craftsmanship and the assorted items that come with them allow you to replay your favorite scenes from the cartoons. Any fan of Charlie Brown and the Peanuts owes itself to look into this series. All I can hope is that a Charlie Brown Christmas line is in the works.

- - Vane