Figure toys are toys that come in shapes of humans such as their favorite superhero, a wrestler, soldier, etc.
What differentiates figures from normal toys is that kids usually have more control over these toys as they have movable limbs, bodies that bend to various angles, etc.
When a child plays with action figures, whatever happens, is initiated and controlled by that child. Such play is creative in nature and promotes mental development. It has multiple benefits. Figure toys can also be used in pretend play.
If you hand over a toy to a child, they have control over what happens to it. If the child needs to actually share that toy with other children, they will learn about sharing and caring. If it is theirs, they will learn about responsibilities and how to care for things. This is why experts recommend that if your child is old enough to play with a toy as a toddler, they should be able to pick up the toys.