Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,668: Endor Rebel Commando (Black Variant)

REBEL COMMANDO Black Variant
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 97568 No. 21487
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: VC26
Includes: Coat, rifle, pistol, bandolier, backpack, helmet
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: July 2011/October 2011
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: Celebrate the legendary Star Wars saga that changed the universe forever! This collection brings to life the incredible story of good versus evil that captured our imagination and took us to a galaxy far, far away. Iconic Star Wars heroes and villains are captured with incredible detail and premium features to commemorate each epic tale in the Star Wars saga. May the Fore be with you! (Taken from the figure's packaging. There is no bio.)

Image: Adam's photo studio test shot.

Commentary: The Endor Rebel Trooper has grown from a weak space equivalent of G.I. Joe to one of Hasbro's most doted-on designs. Since 2002, nearly every new version seems to have a new or different head design which adds to its army-buildingness. After a bald, white head in 2010 Hasbro debuted a black gentleman in 2011 as part of its Comic-Con Exclusive "Revenge of the Jedi Death Star Boxed Set." It was, at the time, assumed by some to be exclusive to the set. Thankfully, it wasn't, so now you can find it in the newer assortments.

The figure retains the costume of the previous release, plus sports the same legs as Major Panno from 2009. He has 14 points of articulation and is about as good as you might expect, complete with a holster for his pistol. It has the same increasingly awful helmet from 2002, but I really dig the new head. I may not be able to pick this out of the film, but I'm glad I have the figure and I think it'll look great next to my other Endor stuff.

Collector's Notes: At the time I wrote this (early September) I haven't actually seen this set in the wild-- I ordered mine online the morning before I left for Comic-Con 2011, as is the way of my people. (It was cheaper.) Since all evidence says it has hit stores, that means it keeps selling out, which means it's popular and you'd be well-served to get it the next time you see one.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,668: November 4, 2011