Best Skylanders figures and starter packs

Start with the Trap Team Starter Pack — it's the one most people should buy: a full game plus the portal and figures, and it's the cheapest way into the series. Check the console on the box matches yours before you commit.

Who the others suit:

• SuperChargers — best for kids who want vehicles and racing alongside the figures.
• Imaginators — the newest of the main games, and the one to pick if you want to build your own Skylander.
• Swap Force — the fan favourite for the swap-and-match figures; plenty of cheap pre-owned copies around.
• Spyro's Adventure / Giants — for nostalgia and the original characters.

For figures alone, the Imaginators 3-packs are the easiest way to add characters.