When it originally debuted as a San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Exclusive, the TMNT themed Street Diorama was an instant hit. The set looked perfect for fans looking for unique displays, or (like me) toy photographers wanting an easy to use diorama for their photo shoots. The dio consisted of a multi-level building front. The main floor featured a sidewalk that acted as a base, with two additional floors, each with a bit of rooftop space for figures to stand. The Street Dio was quite large, standing over 18″ tall, and 2′ wide and could easily fit 30 figures. It was clear almost immediately, that this set was going to be highly sought after, and that being an exclusive was going to be problematic. Thankfully, NECA was quick to announce that the diorama would see a general release in the future, but without the Ninja Turtles branding.
I’ve been using the TMNT Street Diorama in photoshoots ever since San Diego Comic-Con. It’s one of my favorite items to use whenever I can. Now, the standard set is available, and we have a gallery and quick review. We picked up the NECA Street Diorama from sponsor Entertainment Earth.
Related Entertainment Earth Links: NECA Street Dio, NECA IT Accessory Pack, All NECA Dioramas
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NECA Street Scene Diorama Display
Pros
- Outstanding display piece
- Can hold a ton of figures
- Great for photography
- Includes day and night city backdrops
- Modular design
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Pins have a hard time holding the cardboard backdrop
Overall
For the most part, the NECA Street Dio Display is the same as the one released for San Diego Comic-Con 2018. For a much more detailed breakdown of the parts and pieces, assembly, please check out our review of the TMNT Exclusive Diorama display. Here, I’ll talk about about the differences.
The packaging for the Dio is a large windowless display box. The packaging features a more generic look compared to the TMNT box. The general release version features a few photos of the dio, with a description of the types of figures you can use with it. Inside, the Dio is packed as multiple pieces, along with instructions on assembly. Assembly itself is easy, and should only require a few minutes. If you already put together the SDCC Set, then you probably won’t even need the instructions.
The differences between this set and the SDCC version are essentially just paint. The brick color is much lighter, and features a gray mortar wash to fill in the cracks. The sidewalk is a lighter gray, with a yellow outline around the edge. The cardboard backdrop here is all new. It features a daylight cityscape on one side, and then a nighttime version on the other. Those connect via a few pegs inserted into the back of the dio. Those felt a bit loose this time, and the backdrop never sat flush against the walls. It’s not a big problem for me, as I prefer to use it without the backdrop. While acrylic windows are included, I also tend to leave those out (personal preference) as they instantly attract dust particle and smudges. But, the set is sturdy as can be when assembled, and works perfectly as a display shelf for a number of figures.
If you’re into toy photography, or just want a great looking display background, then this is a must buy. If you have the SDCC Dio, and the space, then you can really get some great street scenes together. Check out some select photos below, and the full gallery after that.
