Packaging
When the NHLPA figures were first released, they were cardback packaged but once the first NHL licensed series came out, McFarlane decided to use "clamshell" blister packaging. Since the Series 1 to Series 14, the figures have had the same packaging design. From the start of Series 15, the company decided to change the packaging design which took on a more "streamline" look. The Series 15 design would eventually evolve into a more compact version at the start of NHL 16 and Legends 6. The amount of space that was reduced would also have an impact on how large the new bases would be and also eliminated the addition of a net for goalies.
On April 11, 2008, McFarlane Toys announced their plans to redesign their current packaging. Instead of having a full blister packaging, they have returned to their traditional cardback packaging. After their release, there have been mixed reactions from collectors mainly those who like to keep their figures mint on card. The lines to first debut this new packaging is the NFL Legends 4 and their Halo series 2 lines.
On February 5, 2010, McFarlane Toys announced a return to a clamshell packaging. They will resemble the cardback packaging and according to McFarlane Toys, will "streamline the look of the lines, but also give collectors that extra durability they have been asking for." McFarlane states that the new packaging will be in use beginning with the MLB Cooperstown Series 7.
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