A
miniature figure (also known as a
miniature,
mini,
figure, or
fig) is a small-scale representation of a historical or mythological entity used in
miniature wargames,
role-playing games, and
dioramas. Miniature figures are commonly made of metal, plastic, or paper. They are used to augment the visual aspects of a game and track position, facing, and
line of sight of characters. Miniatures are typically painted and can be artfully sculpted, making them collectible in their own right. Pre-painted plastic figures, such as
Clix miniatures produced by
WizKids, have also become popular. The hobby of painting, collecting, and playing with miniatures originated with
toy soldiers, though the latter were generally sold pre-painted.