Figure of the Day: Day 206: R2-D2

R2-D2 Electronic Lights & Sounds
Revenge of the Sith Collection 1
Item No.: Asst. 85173 No. 85581
Number: III-48
Includes: n/a
Action Feature: Press button for electronic lights & sounds
Retail: $5.24-$5.99
Availability: Fall 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith (technically)

Bio: R2-D2 accompanies Padme to Mustafar as she tries to persuade Anakin to return to the side of good. The loyal astromech droid witnesses a tragedy that has monumental consequences for the galaxy. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's toy shelves.

Commentary: Initially solicited as "Mustafar Sounds," this particular R2-D2 has sound effects from the original trilogy instead. More specifically, Return of the Jedi, making it a really awesome figure for fans of the original trilogy. (You'll probably recognize some sounds from Jabba's Palace.) Like previous releases, he lights up and beeps, but the sound chip tends to get better with every new figure based on this mold-- and there have been many. The figure has articulated feet, and arms-- so five points total. The dome does not rotate, and the main reason to buy this figure is the lights and sounds because other R2-D2 toys give you a lot more play for... well, about the same price.

Collector's Notes: This figure is also available in the 2006 Saga Collection-companion "Greatest Battles" line in far superior packaging. You may find it in stores now. This mold was used in 1998 for the Power FX R2-D2, in 2002 for the only R2-D2 for Episode II, and was retooled in 2004 for Dagobah and the Original Trilogy Collection. The OTC and ROTS versions have the two best sound chips-- the others are basically worth skipping.

Day 206: November 28, 2006