Action toys and methods of assembling and using the toys. A first aspect the invention includes assembleable sectioned portions of background play scenes that are easily assembleable and rearrangeable into virtually endless diorama-like arrangements using a specialized connection system that allows any base and backdrop to be connected in multiple orientations. A second aspect of the invention includes specially designed and constructed figures usable with the background scenes. The figures include central body portions from which flexible limbs and head extend and features that allow the figures to free stand and to hold objects.