Opening a blind box is already full of surprises, but some collections include an even more exciting possibility: a secret figure.

Secret figures—sometimes called hidden editions, chase figures, or rare figures—are special designs that are more difficult to find than the regular characters in a blind box series. They may feature a unique color, costume, pose, finish, or completely different design.

For new collectors, understanding how secret figures work can make the blind box experience easier and more enjoyable. In this guide, we explain what a secret figure is, how it differs from a regular figure, and what to consider when trying to collect one.

What Is a Secret Figure?

A secret figure is a rare collectible included in a blind box series but usually not listed as part of the standard character lineup.

A typical blind box collection contains several regular designs. Each sealed box holds one randomly selected figure, so buyers do not know which character they will receive until the package is opened.

In some boxes, a secret figure replaces one of the regular designs. Because this replacement happens less frequently, secret figures are usually harder to find.

The exact design may be partially hidden in promotional images or represented only by a silhouette. This keeps the figure mysterious until collectors begin discovering it.

Secret Figure vs. Regular Figure

The main difference between a secret figure and a regular figure is rarity.

Regular figures form the advertised lineup of a series and generally appear more frequently. Secret figures are produced or distributed in smaller proportions and appear only occasionally.

Secret editions may also have special design features, such as:

• An exclusive color combination

• A different costume or accessory

• Metallic, translucent, glitter, or glow-style finishes

• A new facial expression or pose

• A larger or more detailed design

• Packaging that identifies it as a hidden edition

However, a secret figure is not necessarily “better” than a regular figure. Collecting is personal, and a regular character may be more meaningful or visually appealing to you.

Rarity affects availability, but your favorite figure should always be the one you enjoy most.

How Rare Are Secret Blind Box Figures?

The rarity of a secret figure depends on the specific series and manufacturer.

Some manufacturers publish an approximate probability on the packaging or product information. Others simply state that a hidden edition exists without providing exact odds.

For example, a series may have one secret figure distributed among many regular figures. This does not guarantee that buying a certain number of boxes will produce the secret edition. Each purchase may still involve an element of chance.

Always check the official information for the specific collection rather than assuming that every blind box series uses the same rarity system.

Does a Secret Figure Replace a Regular Figure?

In many blind box series, the secret figure replaces one of the standard figures in a box or case.

This means that if a collector finds the secret edition in a full case, one regular character may be absent. The exact replacement rules vary between manufacturers and collections.

A full case can reduce the possibility of receiving duplicate regular figures when the manufacturer guarantees a non-repeating assortment, but it does not always guarantee a complete regular set or a secret figure.

Before purchasing a full case, read the product description carefully to understand:

• How many boxes are included

• Whether regular duplicates are possible

• Whether a complete regular set is guaranteed

• Whether a secret figure may replace a regular design

• Whether finding a secret edition is guaranteed or random

Clear product information is more reliable than assumptions based on other blind box collections.

Why Do Collectors Like Secret Figures?

Secret figures add another layer of discovery to blind box collecting.

For many collectors, finding a hidden edition creates a memorable unboxing experience. The figure can become a special part of the collection because it was unexpected and difficult to obtain.

Collectors may enjoy secret figures because of their:

Rarity

Knowing that fewer collectors may receive the same design can make the figure feel special.

Unique appearance

Secret figures often use unusual colors, materials, costumes, or finishes that distinguish them from the regular lineup.

Element of surprise

Opening a box and discovering an unadvertised design can make the unboxing experience more exciting.

Collection value

Some collectors enjoy completing entire series, including hidden editions. A secret figure can become the final and most challenging piece of a set.

However, rarity should not be the only reason to enjoy a collectible. The design, character, craftsmanship, and personal connection are equally important.

Are Secret Figures More Valuable?

Secret figures may have higher resale prices because they are harder to find, but rarity does not guarantee long-term financial value.

A figure’s resale price can be influenced by:

• The popularity of the character or series

• The number of secret figures available

• The condition of the figure

• Whether the original box and identification card are included

• Current collector demand

• Regional availability

Prices can change over time, and not every rare collectible increases in value. Blind boxes are best enjoyed as collectibles rather than treated as guaranteed investments.

If you receive a secret figure, protect it from direct sunlight, moisture, dust, and excessive heat. Keeping its original packaging may also help preserve its condition.

How Can You Tell If You Found a Secret Figure?

The product packaging or collector card can help you identify a secret edition.

Start by comparing the figure with the regular lineup shown on the box. If the design does not appear among the standard characters, it may be a hidden edition.

Other possible signs include:

• A special character card

• A secret or hidden-edition label

• A unique name not shown in the standard lineup

• Distinctive colors, accessories, or surface finishes

• A design matching the hidden silhouette in promotional materials

When uncertain, check information from the manufacturer or an authorized retailer. Avoid relying only on unofficial images, as prototypes, customized figures, and counterfeit products can sometimes be mistaken for genuine secret editions.

Can You Increase Your Chances of Finding One?

There is usually no reliable way to guarantee a secret figure when purchasing sealed random blind boxes.

Some collectors buy multiple boxes or a full case, but the result still depends on the rules of the individual series. Buying more boxes can also lead to duplicate figures and unnecessary spending.

The most practical approach is to:

• Set a collecting budget before purchasing

• Read the stated rarity and case information

• Avoid treating a secret figure as guaranteed

• Trade duplicates with trusted collectors

• Purchase an authenticated opened figure if you only want one specific design

Be cautious of claims that a sealed box can be accurately identified through shaking, weighing, or examining the packaging. Accessories and packaging variations can affect weight and sound, and these methods are not dependable.

What Should You Do With Duplicate Figures?

Duplicates are a normal part of blind box collecting.

Instead of viewing them as wasted purchases, you can:

• Trade with another collector

• Give one as a gift

• Create a themed display

• Use duplicates in different rooms

• Keep one boxed and display the other

• Photograph them in creative scenes

Collector communities can be useful for trading, but confirm the figure’s condition and authenticity before completing an exchange.

How to Collect Blind Boxes Responsibly

The excitement of finding a secret figure can make it tempting to keep purchasing boxes. Setting clear limits helps keep the hobby enjoyable.

Choose an amount you are comfortable spending and stop when you reach that limit. A secret figure is an unexpected bonus—not something you need in order to enjoy a collection.

You can also focus on individual characters, trade duplicates, or buy confirmed opened figures instead of repeatedly purchasing random boxes.

A collection should bring enjoyment, not pressure.

Final Thoughts

A secret figure is a rare hidden design that may replace a regular character in a blind box series. Its limited availability, distinctive appearance, and surprise reveal make it exciting for many collectors.

Still, the heart of collecting is not simply finding the rarest item. Regular figures can be just as creative, expressive, and meaningful.

Whether you discover a secret edition or open a favorite regular character, every blind box adds a new story to your collection.

Explore Planet Bear’s blind boxes and collectible figures to find the next character for your collection.