I've always had trouble grasping the purpose of action figures based on video games, but heck, I'm not one to judge. However, the purpose of creating action figures based on a video game based on a real-life marketable skill set adds a whole new level of confusion. That said, I can't say I'm really surprised to find out that McFarlane Toys has seen fit to capitalize on the massive success of the Guitar Hero video game series.

Just in time for World Tour, the third installment of Guitar Hero, McFarlane is issuing the first series of action figures based on the game. It features characters Lars Ümlaut, God of Rock; Johnny Napalm; and Axel Steel--the latter (pictured left) wears a Spawn shirt, a nod to the most popular creation of McFarlane Toys founder, Todd McFarlane.

The 6-inch toys retail for $10 to $13 and will be available at Toy 'R' Us stores next month.

So, what's the next logical step? Might I suggest a Lego Star Wars-style game based on the figures based on the game based on the real-life marketable skill set? Think about the tie-ins!