Distinctions - Inclusion of elements like the blaster and skull in addition to the core design help aid the visual storytelling around the Cylon’s place within Battlestar Galactica.

Criticisms - The usual subpar Funko Pop! quality and top-heavy design make the Cylon figure frustratingly unstable outside its packaging. With no stand included, it’s prone to tipping over, yet Funko has made no effort to improve stability—likely because most collectors prefer to keep their figures sealed in the box. This design choice caters to the mindset of completionist collectors who prioritize packaging and resale value over actually displaying the figure in a meaningful way.

Distinctions - Print colors and the core design utilize good contrast and material choice.

Criticisms - The #998 Cylon Funko Pop! features the usual Funko quality, with a greasy, low-cost vinyl finish that leaves color vibrancy as its most appealing aspect—aside from the character's inherent draw. While the machining around the accessories and helmet shows some distinction, consistency across different units feels lacking, and the design isn’t stylized enough to escape criticism. With minimal protective coating, the figure is highly susceptible to damage from falls and sun exposure unless carefully stored, likely in its original packaging or an additional protective case.

Distinctions - The design of the Funko Pop Cylon #998 captures a classic Battlestar Galactica villain, as well as the associated dastardly nature of their onscreen appearance with weapon in hand and a foot planted on a flaming skull.

Criticisms - Over time, wear significantly diminishes the design unless stored in a UV-filtering case. Funko’s signature black-eyed, oversized-head style is unremarkable, and like all Funko Pop! figures, its appeal lies in collection uniformity rather than seamless integration into various display settings. The figure’s size and fine details often clash with most household color schemes and décor. Its exaggerated proportions make it look more like a toy than a true display piece. Compared to producers like Bearbrick, which offer larger canvases and a balance of simplicity and intricacy with standardized elements beyond just a singular pose or design, Funko’s approach to collectible figures remains predictable, cash-grabby, and uninspired.

Criticisms - Again, typically Funko complaints to be had with cheap vinyl and cheap packaging elements. Without storage elements, both the Cylon #998 and the packaging are extraordinarily vulnerable to regular household jarring and damage, especially if separated from the original packaging. There is an extremely small second-hand market for out of packaging Funko collectibles, with an incredibly harsh and exacting standard placed upon resale of new or like-new Funko collectibles. By providing a collectible that enummerates itself as part of a set to encourage collecting the rest, as well as providing a design that requires additional products for proper display without packaging for either longevity or better showcasing, Funko has nothing but negatives to offer from a sustainability perspective.

Distinctions - With a lower initial cost than most physical statues or figures, the #998 Cylon Funko is at least an affordable option on its own.

Criticisms - Among Battlestar Galactica collectibles and merchandise, Funko figures offer the least value for their size relative to cost. Compared to other collectibles, artwork, and toys, Funko’s design feels cheap, minimally engineered, and lacks broad appeal beyond dedicated Battlestar Galactica fans. With no real second-hand market or intrinsic value, the Cylon Funko Pop! Battlestar Galactica #998 exemplifies the creeping trend of overconsumption encouraged among pop-culture media enthusiasts. Additionally, deliberately marketing the full set on the back of the packaging targets collectors to make further purchases, making the environmental impact even harder to justify.