Figure of the Day: Day 1,190: Concept IG-88

IG-88 Concept Art
The Legacy Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87535 No. 91644
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #BD40
Includes: Blasters, droid part
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $7.99
Availability: November 2009
Appearances: The Art of The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: In the concept art from Ralph McQuarrie, the droid IG-88 has a broader shape than its ultimate appearance. The chrome war droid and bounty hunter still has a menacing presence with its simple lines that evoke its purpose: destruction. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's yard.

Commentary: After a strong showing in 2007 with its McQuarrie Concept Figure program, Hasbro decided to do an encore in 2009 with IG-88. Unlike his forerunners, this figure doesn't have uniquely colored packaging that calls out why it's so special, it really just blends in with the rest of the line. (Which, if you ask me, is the wrong way to go. Anything you can do to call out figures as "special" is probably worth doing.)

The figure itself is pretty much perfect. He has twin holsters, 14 points of articulation, and just enough paint so that it's obvious Hasbro didn't cheap out. The added brown over the silver gives it a somewhat sketchy look, which is nice given that it comes from an old drawing. The range of motion for a bulky concept figure is remarkable, as Hasbro probably could have put out a statue and it would have sold just fine. Instead, this figure is easily as good as any of the best IG-88 toys made by the Rhode Island toymaker, although getting the head to move on my sample was a little tricky. The red eyes and silver body give the figure a decidedly retro look, and if you've been picking up the concept Boba Fetts and Stormtroopers and what have you, this should be next on your list. If you haven't picked up concept figures yet, this is a good place to start.

Collector's Notes: Along with Episode III concept-based Ki-Adi-Mundi and Anakin Skywalker plus a Joe Johnston Snowtrooper, this figure makes up the quartet of 2009 concept figures. IG-88 has the distinction of being the only McQuarrie design.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,190: January 5, 2010

Figure of the Day: Day 1,132: McQuarrie Concept Starkiller Hero

CONCEPT STARKILLER HERO McQuarrie Signature Edition
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 69570 No. 69716
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #3037
Includes: Blaster, Backpack, lightsaber, coin, mask, goggles
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: September 2007
Appearances: n/a

Image: Adam's back yard. Or Endor.

Bio: A concept painting done by Ralph McQuarrie depicts an early version of the Luke Skywalker character as a young woman. The initial character envisioned for the epic was explored in various ways including whether "Starkiller" would be male or female. This image in this painting captures the heroic idealism of the character that was to ultimately become Luke Skywalker. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: History lesson: in early drafts of Star Wars, the characters of Luke and Leia were basically a single entity. The Starkiller Hero (which was known as Luke Starkiller before it was changed, evidence remains on the coin) was something of a weird legend people read about in early making-of books, so it was more than a little surprising to see it come to pass in plastic. As the drafts of the script were revised, "Girl Luke" was no longer needed-- but Ralph McQuarrie drew it before shooting started, so there you go.

The figure itself is a mostly super-articulated colorful female character that looks like she could pass for an extra from the Droids cartoon, which is about as high a compliment as you can pay to a toy. While she has no ankles and only swivel elbows, the figure is fairly poseable and looks pretty awesome. The purple body suit goes well with the light brown gloves and vest, and the hat with goggles looks delightfully retro (or club chic ca. 2000, whatever.) She has the McQuarrie-style lightsaber with the fat blade and a nifty little blaster. I like this one a lot, mostly because it's such an odd pick to make her. For an artifact of the 1970s, it's totally '80s. So get one.

Collector's Notes: A hot figure in 2007, the Starkiller Hero is getting a straight-up reissue (sans coin) in a shared Toys "R" Us/Diamond exclusive duo of McQuarrie Concept boxed sets. The body parts were not recycled as of yet, but who knows what tomorrow will bring?

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,132: October 15, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,095: McQuarrie Concept Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI McQuarrie Concept
30th Anniversary Collection Comic-Con Exclusive
Item No.: No. 87417
Number: n/a
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Includes: Lightsaber, hilt, Yoda figure, coin (stand is not included)
Action Feature: Clip holds lightsaber hilt
Retail: $14.99
Availability: July 2007
Appearances: n/a

Image: Adam Pawlus' yard.

Bio: In his sketches, concept artist Ralph McQuarrie evokes the graceful power of a ninja master or samurai warrior in his drawing of Obi-Wan.

Commentary: An odd pairing-- a concept from Star Wars packaged with a concept from its sequel-- but Obi-Wan Kenobi is a strange look at what might have been. Loaded with articulation, the figure has 12 points of movement-- meaning that in this case, the knees are missing. He can basically sit or stand without too much fuss, but when it comes to the McQuarrie figures it seems we buy them less for the "toy" appeal than the "shelf" appeal. This is a sub-collection you get to display to show off how enlightened you are to alternate versions of your favorite characters.

Obi-Wan Kenobi is notable in that he really does look a fair amount different from what we saw on the big screen. No facial hair, no toupee, and lots and lots of purple. Overall, the McQuarrie Concept figures might have made the line more toyetic, with bright colors all over the place to make them pop a little more on the shelves. I mean, when you compare this purple and white figure, complete with red trim, against the earthtoney subtlety of the standard release it's quite striking. As collectors I daresay the regular version is a little more attractive and less goofy, but the toy junkie in me sees this as a particularly worthwhile edition of a character that's probably on version #47 by now. As to if you should get it or not, I'd say if you like how it looks, go for it. Otherwise save your cash.

Collector's Notes: That white cloth robe piece? Gets dirty. Be careful. On the bright side, this set isn't too expensive if you're patient. But do expect to pay a slight premium over the issue price.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,095: August 25, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,077: McQuarrie Concept Chewbacca

CONCEPT CHEWBACCA McQuarrie Concept Series
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87280
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #3021
Includes: Blaster, blaster rifle, coin
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Spring 2007
Appearances: n/a

Image: Adam Pawlus' back yard.

Bio: Inspired by his Alaskan malamute, George Lucas created one of the most enduring and well-loved non-human characters of his saga. Constructed from knitted mohair and yak fur, Chewbacca was given life by the actor Peter Mayhew and voice by a wide array of animals from walruses to black bears. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: When seeing the early concepts of Star Wars characters, the drawings of Chewbacca are pretty striking. When you take a famous character, add clothes and ears, and remove the nose, it gets pretty freaky fast. I never once thought I'd see a toy of this bizarre design, which features boots and some armor. It's very tall, but looks more like it stepped out of the minds of a comic book artist or a low-budget movie than the masterminds of a galaxy far, far away. The coloring on the fur looks great, with a fair amount of color, and the painted guns look excellent. There's a good level of contrast in the silver which makes them look like more than rubbery plastic accessories.

While some fans will bemoan the lack of ball-jointed shoulders, as usual, the real problem comes with the hip articulation in that he really can't sit. Hasbro goes out of their way to add tons of goings in the arms and legs, but he can't sit due to the way the costume was executed. Ah well. This figure's look is mostly summed up by his freaky face, which sports yellow eyes, creepy fangs, and what appears to be an alien neck beard. Obviously, Chewie uses open source software.

Collector's Notes: This figure shipped with a gold coin in the "Ultimate Galactic Hunt" waves which shipped in September 2007, or a silver coin otherwise. Either seems to be about as common these days. The figure shipped on a blue-striped package like all McQuarre figures, which gave a lot of toy dealers and speculators the idea that these were all special figures worthy of hoarding. Regular fans bought into this too, but their production numbers weren't too different than that of basic movie product.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,077: July 30, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,062: McQuarrie Concept Han Solo

CONCEPT HAN SOLO McQuarrie Signature Series
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87408
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #3047
Includes: Cape, lightsaber, hilt, blaster, coin
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: October 2007
Appearances: n/a

Bio: McQuarrie's concept painting of central characters in A New Hope depicts Han Solo as a fierce Jedi Knight rather than a rougish smuggler. Wearing close-fitting battle gear, he is ready for combat with his lightsaber blazing and his face set with stern determination. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' place, on the window.

Commentary: When the concept series was announced, we all hoped that Han Solo would be one of the characters to see release in plastic. The downside is that most of us knew it from black-and-white sketches, and we weren't really expecting a purple-tighted warrior with frosted tips. I somehow doubt this is what George Lucas was thinking, but eh, what are you going to do?

The sketch was rough enough that pretty much anything would look like an accurate translation, so Hasbro pretty much perfectly updated it into a figure. It has everything you might hope for, like 12 points of articulation (no ankles), a lightsaber clip. And weird blond hair. And a purple jumpsuit. Really, this guy looks more like Flash Gordon than Star Wars. As a figure you buy to finish your set, this is a sensible one to pick up. The working holster and saber clip are both cool features, but when you get right down to it the figure really can't work in most dioramas as background fodder because he looks just too damn weird. If you have a McQuarrie collection box or shelf, though, this is one you'll want. And I personally believe that every collector worth a damn probably is going to want a complete set of the concept figures from over the years, so yeah, I think you should get one even though it looks kinda goofy.

Collector's Notes: At press time this mold has only been used once, but generally Hasbro finds a way to reuse these things somehow. Eventually. Maybe. This one sat around for a while at some toy stores so who knows. One thing I found particularly smart-- which Hasbro sorely needs to try again-- was the McQuarrie figures' distinct packaging. Rather than have red highlights, they had blue markings which really made them pop off the pegs both visually and in terms of sales. People knew they were special, and all it took was changing up one simple color.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,062: July 9, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 923: McQuarrie Concept Darth Vader

Darth Vader McQuarrie Concept
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87302
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #3028
Includes: Coin, blaster, lightsaber, alternate helmet
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: September 2007
Appearances: Art of Star Wars books

Bio: Darth Vader was not originally supposed to wear a facemask. Ralph McQuarrie's concept drawing of Vader boarding the Tantive IV was based on the idea that Vader would fly through space to reach the ship, requiring him to wear a breathing apparatus. The facemask remained and has become a modern-day icon of chilling doom. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' couch.

Commentary: Back in the 1990s, Kenner had a poll on its site for future non--movie line expansions and McQuarrie concepts were on the short list. As such, fans have been crossing their fingers for a McQuarrie Concept Darth Vader action figure for ages, and now we got one! That's the good news. It's also good news that it was made in the modern era, where the figures are way better than they were in 1995. Sadly, Hasbro took a shortcut or two here and the final figure isn't as cool as it could have been, or as the Kotobukiya statue was. The main downer comes from the awkwardly posed arms and the swivel (not ball-jointed) elbows, which restrict movement. The figure's pose is a little gimpy too, plus the figure isn't exactly black. Parts of him are, but others are more of a very dark brown/grey color. This isn't to say it isn't a great figure-- far from it. Its cloth cape is cool and Batman-like, the decision to leave the blaster and holster in is superb, and the bonus interchangeable heads? Genius.

It's fun to futz with, but a little frustrating in that it's just a smidgen stiffer than other concept releases with even less articulation. Pose is important, and the figure qualifies as good enough. Not perfect, there's certainly room for improvement, but it's better than no McQuarrie Vader at all and the price is right.

Collector's Notes: This is one of those figures that adult fans loved, and so did the various flea market buyers. Hasbro's decision to make the packaging blue tinged (rather than red) set the McQuarrie figures apart. Even though they were made in good numbers, a lot of misinformed buyers assumed they were all shortpacked collector's items. They weren't. Today you can pick up this figure at or below original retail, and some out-of-the-way retailers still have them, in addition to some online ones.

Day 923: December 26, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 847: McQuarrie Concept Yoda

YODA and Obi-Wan Kenobi
30th Anniversary Collection Comic-Con Exclusive
Item No.: No. 87417
Number: n/a
Includes: Cane, Obi-Wan figure, coin (stand is not included)
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: July 2007
Appearances: n/a

Bio: The diminutive Yoda appears leaner and more whimsical than he will ultimately appear in the films yet still exudes mystical strength. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: In 2007, Hasbro stunned figure fans by releasing this Yoda as part of an exclusive McQuarrie concept-based set of action figures for a mere fifteen bucks. As one of the saga's most famous characters, you can bet there are several astounding pieces of art from the conceptual design files, from various goblins to what looks vaguely like Santa Claus. Playing it safe, Hasbro went with one of the designs which looked a lot like the final design. This is both good and bad, good because you don't have to explain to your friends who he is, and bad because it's just not all that distinctive. The Boba Fett figure is this great and different design. Even Obi-Wan Kenobi is a real departure from the final character. Yoda, well, it's Yoda.

The figure itself isn't at all bad, and actually sets a new standard for articulation in Yoda toys. If anything, it'd be nice to see a regular movie Yoda figure this nicely designed. This is the first-ever Yoda figure with ball jointed elbows, plus he has ballish shoulders, regular hips, a waist, a neck joint, and wrist joints. Even the 2004 Vintage release wasn't this good. The figure also has cloth elements to his costume, allowing him to sit. Again, this is pretty fantastic. The design itself is a weird mishmash of original McQuarrie art and some vaguely Kennerish elements from the original toy, so while it's not exactly Ralph's baby, it's pretty close. The longer hair looks a little goofy, and the facial expression looks more Muppet-esque. There are far fewer wrinkles in his face than in the art, but at this size, that's OK. For fans of Yoda looking for something different, this is a fantastic figure. Unfortunately, it isn't too close to its inspiration, nor is it easy to find. For a unique design, it's quite possible the best Hasbro could have done with 2007's sculpting methods, especially given his spindly little legs.

The only way this figure could be more interesting would have been if Hasbro selected a more unique design. And there were many of those to be seen. Although, surprisingly, I had a hard time finding links of most of them to show you, so pick up The Empire Strikes Back Sketchbook or The Art of The Empire Strikes Back if you have the means.

Collector's Notes: A convention exclusive, this popular figure hasn't been reissued in any form-- nor is he expected to be. As such, you're on your own here.

Day 847: September 11, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 844: McQuarrie Concept Rebel Trooper

REBEL TROOPER McQuarrie Concept
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87457
Number: #3060
Includes: Blaster, helmet, coin (2007), stand (2008)
Action Feature: Removable helmet
Retail: $6.99
Availability: November 2007
Appearances: n/a

Bio: Ralph McQuarrie's sketches of Rebel troopers show the distinct headgear and simple uniforms that articulate the lean, focused intensity of the Rebel Alliance forces. In his drawings, McQuarrie has captured the Rebels' unity of purpose and determined independence that characterize the Alliance's proud fighters. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' TV tray.

Commentary: The McQuarrie Concept Figure collection was one of the most exciting things to happen to collectors in 2007, which tells you both that the interest in core characters is supremely important and that actual characters from the movies that Hasbro can convince fans to buy are a diminishing resource. Rounding out the collection of concept figures was this Rebel Trooper, which, unlike the other figures in the collection, wasn't a design a lot of fans would have remembered. Or even seen, much less asked for. Less a great design for a space trooper and more an amusing look for the henchmen in the undersea lair of the vile Dr. Bartholemew Clam, the figure is an oddity on a variety of levels. He has a two piece removable helmet, a holster, removable chest armor, and loads of articulation. Oh, and he's posed in a manner that fits in well with the vintage Kenner line from the 1980s. In many respects, as a collectible, this is the absolutely best McQuarrie Concept figure because it seems to incorporate every fan request for an action figure short of ankle articulation. The joints are well-hidden by the costume design, he can hold his blaster, his helmet can be removed, there's a lot of detail here, and he still looks like he stepped off an artist's sketchpad. How can you go wrong?

The only problem with the figure is that it's fairly non-essential, which while not a crime is an issue with many figures in the line as of late. Chewbacca with bandages, Vader with a new cape, Anakin with new hip joints... it's all Hasbro finding ways to extend the line-- which is what fans say they want-- but it's also filler. This figure would have been an unthinkable release in 2003, and in 2008, it just goes to show that the line is moving in a direction that's less "what would be an awesome seller?" to "OK, we need to come up with something new for fans to buy, what's left?" It's weird that Hasbro could make such a great figure based on a design that probably wouldn't be on any fan's wish list, but here it is. Love it.

Collector's Notes: A member of the one-timer's club so far, this figure is unlikely to make a return appearance any time soon. Hasbro shipped it under a new SKU in 2008 with a display stand, and it's essential for anyone looking to complete their set of collector coins or McQuarrie Concept figures. Everybody else, take it as you will. It seems like it would have made a great character to have attack Vader's secret apprentice in The Force Unleashed though.

Day 844: September 8, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 828: McQuarrie Concept Snowtrooper

SNOWTROOPER McQuarrie Concept
30th Anniversary Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87390
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #3045
Includes: Blaster, coin, face cover (stand not included)
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 2007
Appearances: n/a

Image: Adam Pawlus' floor, in front of a box.

Bio: The stormtrooper's uniform was modified for differnt environments, yet retains the featureless uniformity captured by McQuarrie in his art. Snowtroopers have additional head, chest, and leg coverings to insulate them against the cold and help them to blend into snowy surroundings. (Taken from the cardback.)

Commentary: As the McQuarrie Concept figure series went on, fans kept gobbling them up because they were all new sculpts and all pretty amazing. After a while, we started getting away from major characters, and away from the designs fans were used to seeing in concept art books. This Snowtrooper is by no means obscure, but the number of fans who currently collect action figures that are also proud owners of The Empire Strikes Back Sketchbook are probably few. The figure itself is very Star Wars-y in design, and it just goes to show how important Ralph McQuarrie was in making a good design. Unfortunately, the sculptors at Hasbro seemed more interested in making a great statue, and even then, his oddly positioned legs don't make him that great of a statue. If this figure hand ankles, it'd be a lot easier to pose. Sadly, he's not much of a sitter-- but given the target market for these art-driven toys, that's OK.

The sculpt and deco are both excellent, borrowing heavily from the original sketches. The removable face piece is here, the unique blue symbols on the left side of the helmet are here, even the awkward gun is here! It really does feel like a little work of art has come to life, right down to the dual-fingered gloves. It almost looks like he'd fit right in on Hoth, but there's just a little more yellow, blue, and brown than you would expect from the opening scenes of The Empire Strikes Back. I'd say that this design probably influenced Kenner's Mini-Rigs of 1980-1982 a great deal, as he looks like he would fit right in with the MLC-3 or maybe even the MTV-7.

Collector's Notes: Most McQuarrie figures were cherry-picked by fans. A lot of collectors decided that was all they were going to buy, and their blue-striped packaging made them stand out at retail, causing a lot of dealers to snap them up as they were unique. Because of this, you may have to go to the secondary market. The good news is that it only goes for a buck or two above retail, so go get one if you're so inclined. Heck, buy the set of them all, you won't regret it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 828: August 15, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 816: McQuarrie Concept Luke Skywalker

LUKE SKYWALKER McQuarrie Concept
30th Anniversary Collection HasbroToyShop.com Exclusive
Item No.: No. 87384
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, backpack, breathing mask, blaster, coin (stand not included)
Action Feature: Removable gear, lightsaber clips to belt
Retail: $14.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: n/a

Image: Adam Pawlus' TV tray.

Bio: In the painting depicted on the front [of the package], Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader duel. Wearing an oxygen tank and breathing mask, Luke looks eerily like his father. Although crouched before Vader, his stance vibrates with intenisty. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: One figure fans were begging for when McQuarrie Concept figures came around was that of this figure, which Hasbro called Luke Skywalker. (Some argue he should actually be Deak Starkiller based on the story as it was at the time of the painting.) Luke is great. Period. The indigo shirt, the blaster, the two-piece lightsaber, everything about it is fantastic. Even the face is good, and since there was no real reference for a face based on this painting, it seems Hasbro got to make one up based on a variety of sources. The figure itself has 14 points of articulation, with the only non-awesome joints being swivel elbows. Everything else is superb. It's rare that a design is so unique, especially given that this purple/indigo color is rarely (if ever) used to make a Star Wars action figure. The yellow lightsaber was a cute touch, even if it wasn't exactly a match for the original artwork on which this design was based.

As far as accessories go, this one had an extensive array of goodies. His lightsaber blade could separate from the hilt, allowing you to clip the silver handle to his belt. His newly sculpted blaster fits neatly in its holder, which was handy as nobody wants to lose an accessory. The backpack is pegged to the figure's back, but to get the attached mask off you'll have to employ some gymnastics. Hasbro has determined that it's OK that you remove a figure's head as part of a play feature, so you actually need to pop Luke's head off at the neck and slide the mask down in order to remove it from his head. It's weird, but it works. I guess the same can be said about the figure as a whole. His hair is flailing around in space, and he has a breathing mask on, but skin is exposed. Shouldn't he explode or something?

Collector's Notes: This one was surprisingly popular. Selling at conventions and online, fans gobbled this one up and weren't nearly as interested in the companion set featuring concept versions of R2-D2 and C-3PO. If you were not already aware, this design is not based on any movie costume but rather a conceptual painting by artist Ralph McQuarrie. Collectors are quite enamored with his works and in 2007, Hasbro made several action figures based on his designs.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 816: July 30, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 365: McQuarrie Concept Boba Fett

BOBA FETT McQuarrie Signature Series
30th Anniversary Collection McQuarrie Signature Collection
Item No.: Asst. 87500 No. 87240
Number: 30-15
Includes: 2 heads, blaster, flame projectile, collector coin
Action Feature: Swappable helmets, stomach opens to reveal gun
Retail: $6.99
Availability: April 2007
Appearances: n/a

Bio: Boba Fett was one of the first new characters to be designed for The Empire Strikes Back. The costume began as a Mandalorian supercommando suit and went through various designs, as well as being aged, dented, and painted to give it a battle-scarred appearance. It's final look hides a plethora of built-in weapons - and the identity of the ruthless bounty hunter it encases. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: In the cockpit of the 1996 Shadows of the Empire (later Power of the Force) Boba Fett's Slave I vehicle. Other images from other sources around Adam Pawlus' place.

Commentary: Few things excite collectors as much as the prospect of a completely new Boba Fett action figure. Every few years, we get a new one-- and it's always an exciting time. In 1995, days after Christmas, the first modern one hit stores in limited numbers. In 1996, we got a retooled version based on The Empire Strikes Back to be followed by a "Deluxe" offering with a giant jet pack in 1997. In 2000, we were shown the 300th Edition figure. In 2003, we got a new one that had rockets blazing and flames shooting out the back. In 2004, we got the spiffy (and now largely considered to be the definitive) figure from the Vintage Original Trilogy Collection. In 2006, we got a mishmash of the 2003 and 2004 versions. But it's 2007-- and it's time Hasbro gave us a new take on the most popular bounty hunter in cinematic history.

This one is based on several pieces of concept art for the character, putting together some of the more memorable (and in the case of the alternate head and gut gun, more forgettable) aspects of this character's birth. As a white trooper-style figure, this Mandalorian Supercommando could be army-built were one so inclined, as it's generic enough to make it easy to imagine having an army of these guys fighting Jedi and Rebels. The figure itself is a strong combination of things fans like-- loads of articulation, tons of parts, and just enough decoration to be considered classy. The figure is close to super-poseable-- basically, it has all the joints you could want except for ankles. So there's a total of 12 worthwhile joints here, which is pretty much plenty. Ankles or an added knee joint allowing lower leg rotation would have been cool, but there are sufficient features on this figure to make such requests sound like we're just never able to be satisfied. (Which we can't. And I'm OK with that.)



The figure's parts are worthy of mention. First, there's the gut gun. This built-in feature is rubber-banded shut when you open the figure, and it's a little tricky to flick it out. When you finally do, you'll see that it's a little disappointing, and, sadly, probably not worth having included in the figure. It's just an extra little feature that shows Hasbro designers are willing to innovate and try new things (that's good) but for some reason, the thin walls around the waist joint allow the figure to be split apart very easily with virtually no force (that's bad).

Of course, that's one bad feature-- the rest are largely good. The flame projectile plugs in to a gauntlet, which doesn't look at all excessively large. Usually you end up with ridiculously oversized parts so you can work in a feature like this, so it's nice to see Hasbro make it look good without having to junk up a figure. The holster is sized appropriately, and his nifty pistol fits right in without any real problems. The heads pop on and off easily, and hey, that's pretty awesome. (Actually, it's kinda like getting two figures in one.) The sculpt is subtle, and Hasbro did us a solid by not cheaping out and repainting an older mold white and claiming it's based on a preproduction costume. Huzzah and kudos, Hasbro.

Collector's Notes: This figure was the second figure in the McQuarrie Signature Series, the first being a Stormtrooper released weeks earlier. This figure was, obviously, well-received upon launch and will continue to ship for several assortments to fill demand. More Boba Fett figures are on the way in 2007. A redeco of a previously released figure in cartoon colors is coming this Summer, with a reissue of the VOTC figure coming in the Saga Legends line. It's a good year for Fett fans!


Of course, there are still at least two more "conceptual" Boba Fett figures left to do, now that we have to get really specific about these things. One is Proto Fett, the costume used in pre-ESB photography with brown gloves, a yellow gauntlet, and slightly different coloring. (This was the basis for the two 1979 figures and the packaging.) It also has the little flame thrower on the left wrist. This one I'd peg as likely, and the first POTF2 one seems somewhat based on this (or these) design(s). Another is the white costume used for various film tests at Skywalker Ranch. This one seems like if you took the VOTC figure and painted it white, gave it other guns, a different rocket, and a new helmet, you could probably do it pretty easily. It doesn't seem overly likely though.

If you stick to the artwork, there's still other helmet designs, like the one with the poncho and lots of other variations that could make for some fun action figures. I for one would be happy to see these. If Batman can have a bazillion costumes, why not delve into the archives and crank out a new style of Boba Fett every year? It'd be better than getting the dull 2006 version again and again. And then there's the vintage 12-inch coloring. Or the comic coloring-- which would be really slick, really. (But it's a lot like the 12-inch figure.) All I'm saying is they can probably squeeze another four to six figures out of the concept designs.

Day 365: May 6, 2007

Other: This article celebrates one whole year of daily postings in Galactic Hunter's Figure of the Day feature. At this time I have no plans to stop writing new entries, but now is a good time to point out what will and won't make the cut for future installments of the column.

We will continue to focus on the modern movie-style action figure line, which means we will not be looking at animated style action figures or the seven unique silver (or other metallic colored) promotional figures. We will not look at vintage (1978-1985) figures or the figures from the 1995 Classic Four Pack, which featured 4 remakes of vintage action figures.

Figure of the Day: Day 21: McQuarrie Concept Stormtrooper

MCQUARRIE CONCEPT STORMTROOPER Fan's Choice #4
2003 Saga Collection
Item No.: Asst. 84861 No. 84829
Number: 0334
Includes: Glow-in-the-dark lightsaber, blaster, riot shield, display base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $4.99-$5.99
Availability: Fall 2003


Bio: The Stormtrooper is based on conceptual art from A New Hope, depicting the Empire's shock troopers in a corridor of the Death Star as they hunt down the escaping Luke, Han, Chewbacca and Princess Leia. While Stormtroopers were armed with blaster pistols or blaster rifles in the movie, this Imperial soldier is unusual because he holds a lightsaber, the weapon of the Jedi Knights. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Pictured on Adam Pawlus' computer desk in front of the G5.

Commentary: For years, fans have been begging for concept-based figures and Hasbro delivers every now and again. With special versions of Darth Maul, Qui-Gon Jinn, and Obi-Wan Kenobi having been produced, very few trilogy designs have made the transition to plastic that this Stormtrooper has undergone. A Cloud Car Pilot, an "Airspeeder" pilot, and a Rebel "Biker Scout," of sorts, have been done as well as a few "removed from the movie" type figures, but this one is unique in that it's based on a well-known and much beloved concept painting from the legendary Ralph McQuarrie.

With 8 points of articulation (basic 6 plus swivel elbows), this figure can move pretty nicely. His gun fits in his holster, his shield clips on his arm, and the lightsaber can be held with no problems in either hand. It's really quite shocking as fans generally have something to complain about with a figure, but in this case, as a toy, it performs every toy-etic function perfectly. He can even sit down unrestricted. The glow-in-the-dark weapon is unique to this figure, an experiment that Hasbro opted not to continue in future lines. While it's slightly off-model from the painting, it's quite close, and as a toy I'm a little upset I couldn't get more.

Collector's Notes: Packed at 2 per case in only 1 case (alongside less popular figures who were 1 per case in only 1 case), this figure blew off the shelves, continuing the quasi-curse of Fan's Choice figures: it's either too many or too few. As such, this figure isn't too easy to get. Like many of the better end-of-2003 line, it came and went quickly and was clearanced out as the assortments were discontinued in favor of new SKUs. As such, if you want one, prepare to cough up some decent trade fodder or a small wad of cash that will undoubtedly be greater than six bucks. It is a lovely figure, and while we do hope Hasbro reissues it so I can build a squad of them, I am not hopeful. Well worth tracking down as a collectible, nifty to get as a toy, but for those wanting to streamline their collection this is one you should probably pass on.

Day 21: May 27, 2006