Star Wars Legacy Comic Packs Wave 2 Impressions
Friday, August 29, 2008
They'll all be in Figure of the Day soon, but I just got the rest of Wave 2 of the new comic packs. It seems Hasbro is putting more effort into this sub-line than the basic figures in 2008, as it's loaded with clever repaints, excellent retools, and brand new figures on par with your average basic action figure.
Star Wars #68 with Fenn Shysa and Dengar
Not one to rest on their molds, Hasbro took the 2008 Evolutions Jango Fett and gave him a new head. The 2003 Dengar was redecorated as well. As a fairly shameless fanboy for Marvel's Star Wars, I like this set a lot. The weirdly colored Dengar looks like a bootleg, and Fenn... well, I wish I liked Fenn more as a toy. Jango's oddly hanging holsters don't look good here, and Fenn's head feels small. His armor looks great though, very much a product of the 1980s. There are no real surprises in accessories or articulation.
Star Wars #69 with Tobbi Dala and Princess Leia
We have a winner! Princess Leia isn't the winner, but she's good-- it's a 1998 mold with a newly sculpted belt and improved paint. She fits right in witht he comic art, being almost entirely white. The holster isn't very good in that it's squished under her vest, which will also squish her blaster if it is held inside. Also, her right hand is warped and if you remove the rubber band, she may drop the gun. Tobbi Dala is a pile of awesome. Great metallic coloring, wonderful pose, and it's based on the 2008 Evolutions Boba Fett. The figure's poses remind me of the various hip-hop Mandalorians at comic conventions and the bright coloring is very retro. You simply must buy this set.
Star Wars Legacy #2 with Darth Talon and Cade Skywalker
Both are all-new molds. Cade doesn't include a lightsaber (no matter what the art or insert tray may say), but Talon does. Cade is super articulated, has his belt packaged on him backwards, and includes his trademark customized special rifle. His head is also a little funky, but the costume is great. Talon is almost super-articulated (no elbows), but is otherwise wonderful. Her lightsaber is a little rubbery, but she's unique enough to warrant a purchase. The set is a must-buy for fans of the Legacy comics.
Star Wars Legacy #6 with Antares Draco and Ganner Krieg
Both share a body, but it's an all-new body. Pros: wonderful paint, great soft goods, super articulation, good poses. Cons: hoods don't stay up well, lightsabers can't be pegged to belts, clearish white blades look goofy. Ganner's head is pretty good, but Antares is quite striking-- it almost looks like it can come to life and speak to you. Again, this is a must-buy for fans of the series. Draco won't let you down.
As a Star Wars comic fan, I'd rate the entire wave a must-buy... but you likely are not a fan of both comics from 1981 and 2008. As such, you might be put off by the oddly colored Marvel characters, or the distant future generations of Legacy. It's hard to identify a true favorite, but out of this wave I'd say the true highlights are Tobbi Dala and Cade Skywalker. If either character appeals to you on some level, buy the figures.
Posted byAdam16bit at 12:22 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Comic Packs, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection
Infinities Surprise: White Darth Vader Figure has New Neck
Saturday, August 23, 2008
This mold has been used for the 2004 Vintage Original Trilogy Collection Darth Vader, the 2006-2007 Return of the Jedi Tin Darth Vader, the 2006 Imperial Shuttle Pack-In Vader, the 2008 Assault on Kashyyyk Battle Pack Darth Vader... I could go on.
Posted byAdam16bit at 12:23 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection
Star Wars Action Figures. Collect all 92!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
File under "Bad Ideas."
The slogan was updated constantly and emblazoned on nearly every Kenner Star Wars product for the better part of a decade. Understanding fans before they knew what was going on, the Ohio-based toy giant encouraged fans to collect them all, and as they grew up and got jobs, a lot of them did exactly that. After all, 92 figures on the final figure cardbacks in 1985, plus a few others which weren't shown, wasn't going to be cheap.
Flash forward to 2008 and Hasbro, after buying Kenner, has done a pretty good job updating the entire line. There's a mix of figure which haven't been made yet, and were made a little inaccurately in the original line. Now that we're almost done updating the figures in name, how about accurately representing them as their 1978-1985 plastic selves-- correct or otherwise?
Make way for a real Vintage collection of modern figures! After the McQuarrie Concept line, I can't think of a better line-within-a-line to appeal to old-school original trilogy fans!
Yak Face
The 1998 figure, while arguably an improvement over the supremely rare original, wears a distinctive and different costume. The original Kenner release didn't have the long duster, and the costume coloring was a little different. Since there hasn't been a Yak Face for sale since 1998, why not go retro next time?
R2-D2 (plain, with Sensorscope, with Pop-up Lightsaber)
The original had a body which was created with a big sticker, a wildly inaccurate head, and a height deficiency. The label wouldn't really look good with the rest of the line, but it might be fun to see Hasbro engineers retool a 21st-century take on the original R2-D2 head on a modern body. The giant saucer eye may have been the stuff a good Hungarian bootleg would be based on, but it's also an iconic part of how an entire generation of kids played with the droid. It's also an excuse to do another R2-D2 without lava reflection paint or ash stains or some other minor deco variant.
Han Solo (Carbonite)
While there have indeed been multiple Han Solo figures with the big metal ice block, none have been made in clear brown plastic. None have been molded with his hands at his sides, either. Since a new mold would be needed to make a Kenner-style block (plus it's quite inaccurate), it seems unlikely Hasbro would want to attempt this design-- but hey, why not? Han sells, and the Carbonite has been out of circulation since 2006. This would be a supremely fun Vintage figure!
Warok (Ewok)
To date, this figure has not been done in any modern capacity.
Imperial Dignitary (Sim Aloo)
Again, the figure has not been done in any modern toy line.
Barada (Kithaba)
Supposedly on the short list from Hasbro, the vintage 1984 figure named "Barada" has been since renamed "Kithaba." He's distinctive from the modern Barada figures because he has a slightly different torso and red pants-- this one could be an easy redeco of Barada, although it might be preferable to see a post-Kenner design of the character as a figure.
Lumat (Ewok)
Initially planned to be released in 2007, apparently Hasbro got cold feet and repainted (and renamed) the figure to "Graak." As such, a satisfactory vintage-style Lumat figure is as simple as repainting an existing mold.
Bib Fortuna
After a few tries, Hasbro nailed the movie version of this character-- but the odd looking Kenner original (and the prototype) haven't been done yet. While the movie character had a black robe, the original had a brown robe, and a prototype had a dark red robe. What's more he was armed with a staff which, to date, seems to have originated with Kenner's designers. (Sideshow remade it for their 12-inch figure recently.) As such, there's another opportunity to do another figure to look more like the Kenner original, but even I doubt they'd consider this one.
Emperor's Royal Guard
While there have been three figures of the movie guard in the modern line, none replicated the elegance of the original. The figure could stand guard, hold a large force pike, and sported a cloth robe. It's so simple, and yet we're not quite there yet-- but we came close in 2005 with the Revenge of the Sith figure. Were Hasbro to retool the arms and give him a new weapon, they could make an update of the Kenner orignal (with accessory) and a movie-perfect version with a shorter pike in one easy release.
Nikto
The modern-era figure from 1999 doesn't match the 1983 original at all. An entirely new sculpt may not be required, but really all that's potentially salvageable is the head. They may as well go for broke and start from scratch here.
Luke Skywalker (Hoth Gear)
Even though there hasn't been an ultimate super-articulated version of the movie version of the costume, the suprisingly different Kenner figure from 1982 hasn't been touched in the modern line yet. The perfect companion to your blue costume Hoth Han Solo figures, a new Kenner version would have dark goggles, dark brown boots, and a red scarf around his hat and neck. Retro-tastic!
Bespin Security Guard (Black, Arguably Asian)
While an acceptable Bespin Guard was released in 2001, it didn't look a thing like the original. It didn't have a moustache, and it wasn't black. It also didn't have his jacket closed. For this reason, there's not one but two opportunities to do old-fashioned versions of this guard, both of which could be made from a single mold except for the head. Two for one here, Hasbro!
Darth Vader (and the same comments apply to Obi-Wan Kenobi)
While seemingly every possible variation on Darth Vader has been done, there's one action feature which has never been touched on-- the telescoping lightsaber built in to the arm. All that would be required here for a "Kenner" style release would be a new arm with a lightsaber inside and, if they were feeling saucy, the strange over-the-shoulders cape. Which is really closer to being a floor-length vest with something resembling a hood. Either way, it's another way to sell Darth Vader and cash in on that oh-so-delicious 1978 Kenner nostalgia all at once.
TIE Fighter Pilot
Not only has Hasbro still not yet delivered a super-articulated version of the pilot, the 1982 Kenner orignal really doesn't look anything like the movie aside from the fact that it was black. It features a misshapen helmet design, black gloves, little bits and pieces on his costume, and he was pretty stocky. When every possible version of the TIE Pilot from the movies has been exhausted-- which, I should add, it hasn't yet been-- here's another way to redo the classic.
Greedo
While sales of the Vintage figure in 2006 may have squashed any hope for a new version, the 1979 release had a strange green jumpsuit with big green boots. The head could be reused, as could the hands and maybe bits of the limbs. A whole new torso might be worth a shot in an attempt to create the Kenner original.
Snaggletooth
Like Greedo, it seems Kenner designed much of the costume on their own. His red costume seems only to share the color and the belt with an on-screen counterpart, and his head qualified as close enough. It's time for Kenner to go back to the well and recreate the barefoot, gloveless, grey-furred shorty from the bar.
Boba Fett
The no-brainer of the year! With different colored right and left gauntlets, a unique jetpack, no cape, and a blue body suit, this might be the best possible candidate for Kenner-ization. The original figure was fairly off-model from the final film figure, and the 12-inch Kenner figure from the same time was also pretty unique. Heck, there's two versions right here.
Imperial Officer
Despite there being dozens of Imperial Officer figures, none of them replicated the look of the 1980s original with its pressed uniform, gloves, and hat. Hasbro could easily recolor Moff Jerjerrod to make a figure that's close enough, and that's what they're doing in late 2008. But will it be enough? (Probably.)
Hoth Rebel Solier
Simply put, none of the modern ones have been great. Six points of articulation, tops, and height problems are part of a large list of grievances. After the perfect movie-authentic version of the figure comes to be, Hasbro might want to do a version with a brown parka like the original. The fans would appreciate it.
Rebel Commander
To go with the soldiers, a new commander might be nice. Essentially Major Derlin with a dark moustache and a one-color costume, this should be an easy figure to recreate as a repaint of Major Derlin. Heck, the 2007 Target exclusive rerelease is quite close as it is.
Death Squad Commander/Star Destroyer Commander
Despite being one of the original 12 figures, he's always getting the short end of the figure stick. A good version was released in 2007, but it had a black jumpsuit-- Kenner's figure was clearly grey. This could be either a simple recolor, or something a little more creative. The 2007 figure's hat fits perfectly on Officer Cass, which could mean Hasbro could crank this one out with little to no effort.
FX-7
The 1980s version and the 2001 version are so different it really isn't funny. While some of the original Kenner figures are unique due to misinformation or conscious choices in style, this one seems to be chalked up to the technology of 1980s toys not being up to snuff. Were Hasbro so inclined, they certainly could make one with fewer arms and a slightly different head like this original release. "Could" being the key word-- it's a big step back, so it probably would never happen.
Walrus Man
While we've received several Ponda Baba figures since 1997, all were based on the same basic mold, and none of them were as weird as the original from 1979. Green skin, swim fins, a blue rubber diver suit, and some sort of an orange garment make this another twisted parody of the real deal. Were this sold in eastern Europe today, it would probably be viewed as an outrageously goofy bootleg, but because it was a Kenner original, it actually has a limited amount of respect from fans. By reusing some G.I. Joe parts, Hasbro could easily crank out the brightly colored version for the 21st century collector.
Hammerhead
Much like Walrus Man and their Cantina pals, ol' Hammerhead looks very little like his movie cousin outside his head and skin color. While the Kenner original was much thinner than the modern figures, Hasbro could easily make the version in the blue garment without too much trouble-- just take and modify the 1997 mold by giving him a new body and new coloring. Presto-- classic Kenner Hammerhead!
Jawa
Two words: cloth robes. The original figure was pretty cool, but covered by a single cloth garment which rendered all the work of the sculptors invisible. Hasbro could go for a double-dip here, including the original plastic cape as well, appealing to figure fans in a whole new (and goofy) way. However, the 2007 version has a brown jacket/vest that may be close enough to the plastic cape to count for even the most critical Kenner fans.
Yoda
The 2004 Vintage release was close, but no cigar. Where's the big goofy grin, the knobby belt, and the neon orange snake? Some new cloth pieces and revised accessories could make this one a reality lickety-split. And I can't imagine Kenner turning down another Yoda variation.
Power Droid
While similar to the 1997 version, the 1979 release had a blue body and a lot more color. There's no reason Hasbro couldn't replicate the original Power Droid just by using the original mold and some paint. It's so easy, it's almost frightening that it didn't come out with a Jawa four years ago.
BONUS ROUND: Kenner Accessories!
A lot of figures have been released, but lack the unique, original, and/or wacky accessories of the originals. While some have found their way in other figure releases (like the grey Biker Scout pistol), others have never seen a modern update. Here's a quick list of what would still be fun to see.
Paploo's staff
Imperial Gunner's gun (also A-Wing Pilot, Endor Leia, etc.)
Bib Fortuna's staff
Emperor's Royal Guard's staff
Boushh's rifle (with handle)
Squid Head's grey blaster
Nien Nunb's block black blaster
Ree-Yees' gold rifle
2-1B's sharp grey probe
Bossk's gun
Admiral Ackbar's staff
Luke Skywalker's yellow lighsabers
So there you have it! Appealing to old toy collectors has never been easier-- just market the mistakes from the old days. I'm only partially kidding here-- I really do think there's a market for several of these figures, and if there was a burst on the packaging boasting "ORIGINAL KENNER-STYLE WEAPONS!" I'd be excited enough to pay up for some new versions of old figures.
...if any of these happen, well, please accept my apologies or a sarcastic "You're welcome!" in advance. As you can see, there really is no end to the ways Hasbro can go back to the well just for the original trilogy. And if they go back to the well to update barely adequate modern figures like Paploo, Nien Nunb, and so forth, this could go on forever.
Posted byAdam16bit at 11:59 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Editorials, Hasbro, Kenner
Star Wars: Is there anything Hasbro won't do?
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Over the years, there have been quite a few figures produced by Kenner and Hasbro that didn't quite sell according to expectations. At the same time, a few figures were deemed too obscure or questionable to make, yet a lot of them have happened. One of the slower sellers of the 1990s was Malakili, the Rancor Keeper. Flash forward to August 2008, and Hasbro confirmed a new version of the formerly terrible selling figure was actually in the works for an upcoming assortment. Kenner also said that poor sales of Han Solo (Hoth) and Luke Skywalker (Dagobah) meant new versions were pretty much off the table, yet here we are, with two more Dagobah Lukes and probably close to a half dozen Hoth Hans.
We've also seen Hasbro relax their stance on non-movie and concept-based figures, large vehicles, and environments. Just like a man with focus hitting on the hot receptionist at work, fans have managed to wear Hasbro down. That's why we have Imperial Shuttles, Wuher, and, for some reason or another, BoShek. Just two or three years ago, Hasbro said they didn't want to make a figure of Yarna d'al' Gargan as the character amounted to little more than a space prostitute-- yet here we are, and we've all seen her in stores now. So, after nearly 13 years, what kind of things won't Hasbro do?
5. Klaatu (1983 Kenner costume)
While called Klaatu in 1983, the character now known as Wooof is one of very few figures which have not been made in the 1995-present figure line. (Others include the 1984 Imperial Dignitary Sim Aloo, the 1984 Ewok named Warok, the 1983 Ewok named Lumat, and the original deco of the Power Droid.) For one reason or another, Hasbro has been pretty dodgy about making this one, giving the standard "no plans at this time" response. I hate to be a conspiracy theorist, but at this point it seems the only reason to not remake the figure is to always make sure there's a few figures on the modern to-do list, or for spite. Could be either way, actually... but it's been so long that it seems unlikely we're going to get one in the short term.
4. Ackmena (Bea Arthur)
The 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special is a touchy subject. Some aspects of the CBS television program have wormed their way into the Expanded Universe, like Boba Fett's original design returning in 1985 for the Droids animated series, or Chewbacca's family appearing in the Wookiee Storybook and an issue of Marvel's Star Wars comic series. Other aspects were immediately chucked down the sewer, like all of the musical and comedy talent who appeared on the show. Bea Arthur played Ackmena, the night bartender at the Mos Eisley watering hole from the original film. She sang, she looked like she could kick some butt, but she was one of the goofier aspects of the show. Today, fans have started lobbying for an action figure of her, which Hasbro seems to be laughing off as something of a joke. As such, it could be some time if the company ever decides to do it, but as we've seen "never" generally means "not right now."
3. Owen and Beru Lars (corpses)
Despite dead bodies having some great costumes, Hasbro has been pretty good at maintaining that an inactive body doesn't make for a great figure. With three characters seeing release as Jedi Spirits (Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker) it seems that the term "dead" is relative-- these three are pretty lively for the recently departed. There have also been decapitated figures like a Tusken Raider and Jango Fett as well as the bisectable Darth Maul. The charred remains of Luke Skywalker's guardians have been requested by fans for years, but Hasbro keeps skipping out on them. With the recently released Attack on the Lars Homestead gift set, it seems increasingly unlikely that these will ever appear in plastic. Really, there was no better opportunity to do it.
2. Jar Jar Binks (Episode III costume or Super-Articulated Episode I costume)
Fun fact: Hasbro has not released a new Jar Jar Binks action figure since 2002. Even more surprising, no Jar Jar action figures of any kind have been made by Hasbro since 2002. Aside from a Galactic Heroes figure, the character is pretty much completely off the radar of merchandisers, although who knows if this will change with The Clone Wars. Aside from an oddly statue-ish figure, Hasbro hasn't bothered to make any action figures for this space klutz after Episode I's merchandising juggernaut ended. He hasn't even appeared in Battle Packs or exclusive sets. As such, it would almost seem like the perfect time to release a new one, but since 2002, Hasbro has only released a tiny handful of new products from the first prequel. A new sculpt of Jar Jar seems almost unthinkable, but as mentioned above, we're getting a new Rancor Keeper, so it has to be just a matter of time.
1. Brea and Senni Tonnika (or the Tonnika Sisters)
In the original Star Wars, there are two girls with green spandex costumes and beehive hairdos. In the 1990s, Galoob Toys actually made one of them as a miniature figure in their Action Fleet line, but the figure was removed as the line progressed and Kenner (and later Hasbro) never made a full-size action figure. Having been told "the official story" from actual official sources numerous times, I will say that the stories aren't too consistent, but it seems the big deal is one of the actresses simply won't allow it to happen. It might be a financial block, or just a personal decision to not want a figure made, but apparently it has to do with a likeness rights issue. (An issue, I should add, that has been resolved for all subsequent films.) It's unfortunate, as these characters have actually been highly requested by fans for over a decade now and were frequently made as custom figures back when the line first started. Maybe some day things will work out, as having a figure made means you can sign it, meaning you can get free vacations to sci-fi conventions and fees to sign at said conventions. It's an opportunity in the making!
Based on Hasbro's various denials and about-faces on items, I'm going to say it's a safe bet one or more of these will be in collector hands by the year 2010. Any predictions for the collectors of tomorrow? Leave a comment!
Posted byAdam16bit at 10:40 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Editorials, Hasbro
Wal-Mart Exclusive Clone Wars 501st Trooper Out Early
Sunday, August 3, 2008
If you can't get enough of the hunt, you may be in luck this weekend. Wal-Mart stores here in California are already selling their exclusive Clone Wars 501st Legion Clone Trooper. We found them mixed in on the pegs with other figures for under $7 a pop, a great price-- unlike another retailer who upcharges for exclusives who shall remain nameless. More pics and impressions to come!
For those keeping track, Hasbro gave a release date of August 15, 2008.
Posted byAdam16bit at 2:21 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Broken Street Dates, Exclusives, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV), Wal-Mart
Weekend Sales Round-Up: Star Wars Discounts
With The Clone Wars and The Legacy Collection, a lot of stores are running a lot of deals. Here's what you should look out for.
GENERAL
Numerous stores are actually in something of a price war-- the basic figure line started off around $7.99 and a lot of stores are now charging $6.99 or less. Your mileage may vary, but this sort of thing happened during Revenge of the Sith quite a bit.
BEST BUY
No Star Wars deals this week, but a Starship Troopers "Trilogy" DVD set includes an action figure, which may interest all one of the readers of this blog.
ENTERTAINMENT EARTH
Summer blow out sale, just under 90 items on some level of clearance. Includes Republic Elite Forces for $65, Titanium Cylon, Luke, and Darth Maul for $11.55, and other stuff.
KMART
Nothing this week.
TARGET
"Gigantic savings on Star Wars." $16.99 for Galactic Heroes scenes, basic vehicles. $24.99 for the Clone Wars Ultimate Lightsaber. $49.99 for the LEGO Torrent Starfighter. $24.99 for the Clone Trooper Voice Changer. $16.99 for the electronic roleplay blasters. $19.99 Leapster 2 Clone Wars Math game.
TOYS "R" US
Nothing this week.
WAL-MART
Nothing this week.
Posted byAdam16bit at 9:38 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Deals, Hasbro, Target, The Clone Wars (TV), The Legacy Collection
Star Wars Build-A-Droid Wave 2: R4-T1 & R7-J1
Saturday, August 2, 2008
A few weeks ago, I looked at the first Legacy collection build-a-droid figures, and how you could switch around all the parts and everything. The second wave is very much like the first, except these have been painted differently and come with different figures.
So far, here's the breakdown as to who comes with which parts. As I've noticed with wave 1, this may change-- Hasbro made it a point so that every case has enough to build 3 astromech droids (or, when the time comes, 2 protocol droids). This means that some figures may come with either of multiple pieces, in addition to multiple figures coming with the same piece. Confused yet? We'll work on a chart to explain it at some point soon.
Here's the current breakdown with the first shipment of these figures:
Dome & center leg: Clone SCUBA Trooper #BD10
Body: IG Lancer Droid #BD13
Left leg: Obi-Wan Kenobi #BD9
Right leg: Clone Trooper #BD16
Packaging real estate being at a premium, Hasbro opted to leave off any information as to who these droids are. The green R4-J1 is one I'm not quite familiar with, although Wookieepedia claims it is some sort of scavenger droid. I guess that works!
Dome & center leg: Quarren Soldier #BD15
Body: Mon Calamari Warrior #BD14
Left leg: Padme Amidala #BD12
Right leg: Saesee Tiin #BD11
According to the Expanded Universe lore, R7-T1 was assigned to Luke Skywalker at some point after Return of the Jedi to replace his aging R2 unit. Luke was also given a new vehicle, and in the end he went back to R2-D2 and his X-wing. So what you have here is a toy which Luke got, played with, and got bored with.
As with before, each figure is designed with four "sockets" on the sides of his body, two on each side. The upper pair is for where the legs normall go, and the lower pair allow you to have some fun by adding additional limbs of your choosing. The sockets are designed to be fully swappable, so if you're an army builder and you end up with a sack of extra parts, you should be able to come up with something rather than just end up with a bag of busted machinery.
They're a lot of fun to mess with, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited for the whole wave (and especially R7-T1.) To assemble these droids, you'll need to pick up characters from the original Clone Wars series, which is like saying you'll have to eat all your dessert if you want your dessert. I can't say I see a problem with this.
Click here for more exciting images of what kind of parts-swapping you can do with these figures.
Posted byAdam16bit at 10:35 PM 1 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection
Star Wars: The Legacy Collection's Saesee Tiin's Lack of a Cape
In the past week, fans have been gifted with a few dozen figures. Between build-a-droids and new sculpts, there's really something for everyone. I was particularly excited about the Clone Wars-themed Legacy Collection wave, based largely on the 2003-2005 animated series. Each figure has a lot of nice little touches, but a few things were left out. Notably missing is Saesee Tiin's cape.
But there you go-- that's what Saesee Tiin would look like if Hasbro sprang the extra penny and included a cape with the figure. I rather like it, and while it's not a perfect match, it's better than what I had before. Which is nothing.
You might be asking "Adam, why didn't you just use a spare Obi-Wan Kenobi cape from the new clone armor release?" Good question. Due to how the cape attaches to the figure, it wouldn't work-- there are two loops which fit around little nubs on Obi-Wan's sculpted torso. The Mandalore cape is just a piece of elastic which fits around the neck. There aren't a lot of brown capes in this figure line, so I would say that, as of today, this is your best bet. I'd also say I fully expect a rerelease of Saesee Tiin in a Battle Pack in the next two years which will include an official, better cape... but I'm just not that patient.
Posted byAdam16bit at 10:16 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, Playtime, The Legacy Collection
Found: Star Wars Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Thursday, July 31, 2008
While Hasbro indicated these wouldn't be available until later, I spotted new Comic Packs at Target this evening. Enjoy hunting for Tol Skorr & Asajj Ventress, Anakin Skywalker & Durge, and Anakin Skywalker & Assassin Droid. (The latter of which is a repackaged release.) Happy hunting!
Posted byAdam16bit at 11:58 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, Star Wars, Target, The Legacy Collection
Variation Watch: Evolutions Boba Fett
Friday, July 18, 2008
A few months ago, Hasbro informed us that The Fett Legacy action figures would return later, in new packaging, with a fixed paint job for Boba. The missing chest logo was to be restored, which it was-- sort of. While I have a corrected one in my collection right now, I saw at least two with the original, incorrect, missing logo at Target this evening. As such, be sure to examine any The Legacy Collection Mandalorian-based sets before making a purchase if this variant matters to you. Happy hunting!
Posted byAdam16bit at 8:40 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection, Variation Watch
Eyes On Target: The Clone Wars
Target stores, surprise surprise, are ignoring the big 7/26 street dates. I've seen Commander Fox dress-up kits, entirely full endcap displays, and tons of figures, vehicles, blasters, evolutions packs, and more. If you want stuff, and were going to wait until next weekend, don't-- start hunting now!
Posted byAdam16bit at 8:38 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Broken Street Dates, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV), The Legacy Collection, Vehicles
Padme Amidala Legacy has Weird Garment
Thursday, July 17, 2008
I lucked out and got a Padme Amidala Legacy set in the Evolutions line tonight. I like it-- it's pretty nice. It includes a pre-Senate Gown figure (shown holding the garment), a dressing gown figure with one of the best Padme head sculpts ever, and a pretty awesome remake of the white jumpsuit from Attack of the Clones. But the thing is, I can't figure out what this cloth bit is for. It's a little small and seems hard to put on any of the figures. Is it supposed to be a hospital gown? Am I supposed to use this to recreate Padme in labor from Revenge of the Sith? I really have no idea, and the packaging is of little help. I don't even know which side is the front, to show you how astute I can be when shown a new figure. It doesn't fit them easily and I'm not even sure who it's supposed to go with.
Anyway, the set is pretty cool, but dang if I know what to do with this thing. Junk drawer, ahoy!
EDIT: Apparently it is the ROTS hospital gown, but it doesn't really fit at all. Well, how wonderful.
Posted byAdam16bit at 11:44 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection, WTF?
Star Wars Legacy Collection Poster Revealed
Site StarWars.sg just posted a poster showing all of The Legacy Collection through what seems to be wave 4. New confirmations (which we've seen leaked) include:
Clone Trooper (Coruscant)
Yaddle & Even Piell
Jodo Kast
Saleucami Clone Trooper (repackaged Commander Neyo)
Holographic Count Dooku
Imperial Engineer (repackaged Death Star Gunner)
Stass Allie
Commander Faie
General Grievous
Bail Organa
Breha Organa
FX-6
Click here to see it.
Posted byAdam16bit at 7:44 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, Star Wars, The Legacy Collection
Hasbro The Clone Wars: Revealed!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
No, really! This isn't stuff you've already seen at retail! (OK, so a lot of it is-- but there's new stuff too!) It may even be vaguely spoilerish as it reveals new characters appearing in The Clone Wars, so click through to starwars.hasbro.com at your own peril. The whole site has been redesigned, and there's information on some new exclusives. Trust me, that part, you're going to want to see. (But again, beware spoilers.)
Posted byAdam16bit at 7:29 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Exclusives, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV), Vehicles
Diamond Exclusive Star Wars Crimson Empire Action Figure Set Exists
Monday, July 14, 2008
Color me surprised! But just be sure to color me. Diamond has posted word of a new exclusive gift set, this time focusing on the Crimson Empire flashback scene in which we see Kir Kanos and Carnor Jax in training. Click through for a look at this item at Entertainment Earth, who has posted pictures, pricing, and availabilit.
Posted byAdam16bit at 7:50 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Exclusives, Hasbro, The Legacy Collection
Price Increase Looming for Star Wars Figures
Saturday, July 12, 2008
If you weren't already aware, there's a price increase coming to most if not all stores for the upcoming Legacy and Clone Wars collections. Target stores, for example, will be upping the price to $7.99 each. It's entirely possible a price war may come up again like with Revenge of the Sith to drive prices down, but I'm not hopeful.
Posted byAdam16bit at 5:25 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV), The Legacy Collection
Target Clone Wars Commander Fox Exclusive Figure
Friday, July 11, 2008
What do you need to know about the new Commander Fox action figure?
1. This Target Exclusive action figure is expected to hit on or shortly after July 26, 2008 as a $12.99 Target exclusive.
2. Several pictures can be seen here.
3. The figure is seemingly the first animated kitbash. The head is the helmet head from Obi-Wan Kenobi*. The body is that of Captain Rex. The deco is, of course, unique to this figure.
*- Obi-Wan Kenobi from The Clone Wars does not have a removable helmet. Rather, he has a human head and a helmet head which can be swapped. The neck post is the same size on Captain Rex which should allow for easy customizing.
Posted byAdam16bit at 12:51 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Exclusives, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV)
Q&A: Star Wars Legacy Collection Wave 1 Build-A-Droid
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Q: Which droid parts come with which figures?
R4-D6
Dome & center leg: Battle-Damaged Darth Vader #GH3, Chewbacca #BD3
Body: Imperial Evo Trooper #GH4, Leektar & Nippet #BD4
Left leg: Han Solo #BD1, Commander Gree #GH1
Right leg: Kashyyyk Trooper #GH2, Luke Skywalker #BD2
R7-Z0
Dome & center leg: Darth Vader #BD8
Body: Bane Malar #BD7
Left leg: Ak-Rev #BD5
Right leg: Yarna D'al' Gargan #BD6
NOTE: So far all "first day of issue" foil variants I've seen correspond to the above list as well.
Q: Can I use parts from one droid to make another "frankendroid?"
Q: Do the build-a-droid figures hold together well or will they fall apart easily?
Q: Is it true that Hasbro will be phasing out the droids after each wave?
Based on their Q&A answers which they send to fan sites, it seems that way. This would probably help push out pegwarmers, and would mean really popular figures could potentially come with a half dozen different pieces over the course of the line. I'm not particularly fond of this because, frankly, I wouldn't mind having lots of spare R7 domes to add to R4 bodies to make even more droids.
Q: What comes in a case?
So far it seems enough pieces to build three complete droids. It's unknown if this will change as time goes on, or as case ratios change. Hasbro's Q&A indicated it wanted to ship enough pieces for several complete droids, but it's possible if extra Darth Vaders ship in a case, there may be extra domes. Oh, and in case you didn't notice above, in wave 1, 2 of the 3 domes come with a Darth Vader figure.
Q: How are the droid pieces packaged?
Almost exactly like the 2006 The Saga Collection holographic bonus figures-- there's a little white tray on the back of the card, plus some tape and two tabs holding it in. This makes it harder to rip open and steal the piece without causing a scene, and it's not supremely easy to slice it open. Hopefully this will discourage in-store pilferage.
Q: Am I going to want the droids?
If you went ga-ga over Wal-Mart's recent repaints, yes, very much so. If droids are boring to you, you can save your money. I think most collectors are going to enjoy them, especially the colorful ones appearing in wave 2 later this year.
Posted byAdam16bit at 11:40 PM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, Playtime, QandA, The Legacy Collection
More Tokyo Toy Show Coverage
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Site JapanStarWars.com has a lot of nifty new pictures up, including Hasbro's new Millennium Falcon, both USB hubs, and a Gentle Giant exclusive Spirit of Qui-Gon (or holographic Qui-Gon) mini bust too.
...and there's a Celebration Japan Blackhole Stormtrooper set of Chubby figures, but they're somewhat hard to see.
Posted byAdam16bit at 9:42 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Busts, Chubby, Gadgets, Gentle Giant, Hasbro, Japanese Toys, The Clone Wars (TV), The Legacy Collection, Vehicles
New The Clone Wars Action Figure Battle Packs
Previously unannounced Battle Packs have been revealed at the Jedi Insider, featuring Obi-Wan and Yoda specific Clone Trooper squads based on the new animated series. Each features a Jedi and four troopers. There is no specific information confirming these are (or aren't) exclusives, and the clones have unique, previously unseen squad markings.
Posted byAdam16bit at 9:39 AM 0 comments
Labels: Action Figures, Hasbro, The Clone Wars (TV)
