Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 2,033: Willrow Hood

WILLROW HOOD The Ice Cream Maker Guy
The Legacy Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87535 No. 89027 
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #BD53
Includes: Droid part, ice cream maker, blaster
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $7.99
Availability: Late 2009/Early 2010
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: Willrow Hood works for the gas mining company on Cloud City. When the Empire seizes control of the city, Hood destroys a computer memory core to prevent the Empire from discoviering information about secret transactions with the Rebels.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's old LA apartment's kitchen.  I took this a few years ago... this is probably from early 2010.

Commentary: There are two Star Wars figures that come to mind as existing largely in spite of any sane company's better judgement because fans raised awareness for it.  Did the fanbase actually want Willrow Hood, aka the Ice Cream Maker Guy?  Or did a couple of fan sites manage to stir the pot with petitions and basically raise awareness of this character to levels where thousands of fans knew who he was, so that it went from too obscure to even be a joke figure to an actual, viable option?   Sometimes gag figures come out at a good time and the marketplace more or less takes care of them, courtesy of their lower production runs as part of a "last wave" of an assortment or just generally being interesting.  Mr. Hood came out near the end of the line, but not close enough to the end to disappear neatly.  Stores were still ordering this wave and most of the other figures did quite well. He sat around for a bit, and was probably the one "new" figure from this wave you were most likely to see hanging around.  There's a big difference between the vocal fans who write about stuff and the silent fans who actually pay money.   He did do better than Leesub Sirln, who I am pretty sure nobody asked for, and slots for all-new, never-before-made-as-a-toy figures are more precious resource today than they were in 2009.  (Do you know how many new, never-before-made-as-a-figure non-exclusive characters we got in 2012? About 10.)

All complaining aside, it's a pretty decent figure and probably one of Hasbro's cheaper releases.  The all-orange suit has very little paint, short of some silver on the arms and black on the boots.  Oh, and his head.   The all-to-familiar speed suit is recreated here with a little bit of a gut, and quite a bit of articulation.  14 points?  That's surprising.  There are more wrinkles on the toy than on the movie's still shots, plus as far as I can tell he didn't have a gun on the big screen.  It adds a slightly more menacing element to the figure, which I feel sort of misses the entire point of it in the first place.  Lando tells people to evacuate, and two seconds later you see a guy running around with an ice cream machine.  Not a gun - an ice cream machine.  That, ultimately, is the entire appeal of this figure, it's basically an internet meme that somehow got made to the tune of dozens of thousands of units.

He does a good job standing, sitting, and most importantly holding his gear.   This is a high-quality execution of a so-so gag, and as such it's noteworthy for Jedi Defender and the sites that banged the drum to bring it into being... heck, even the fans who didn't like it and complained raised awareness of the character and probably helped serve up some units.   There really is no such thing as bad publicity, and when it comes to all-new characters there is very rarely such a thing as a bad Star Wars action figure.

Collector's Notes: Pricing is all over the map for this guy, but he's usually below $10 and if someone lists it on eBay for $1 or $2, he'll sell for that.  If and when I ever get to write a book about this hobby, this guy is going to get special mention because it really is a magnificent symbol.  Not only does it show what can happen when fans get together, but it also shows that the line got so big that, after a point, a character this ridiculous becomes a viable option simply because there really aren't all that many other good figure candidates to fill out a movie-themed Empire Strikes Back wave.  The fact that this figure exists is pretty amazing, but there's one last figure to discuss whose right to exist I call more into question.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 2,033: March 29, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,981: Luke Skywalker

LUKE SKYWALKER Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No.     87755
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 4 of 6
Includes: R2-D2, piece of C-3PX, lightsaber, hilt, helmet, blaster
Action Feature: Removable helmet
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Luke is a young Jedi who helps defeat the Empire. His Astromech droid R2-D2 is damaged during the attack on the first Death Star.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's shelf.

Commentary: The funny thing about this particular Luke Skywalker is that it came out about a year after the Vintage 2006 X-Wing pilot version, and is tons better.  This basic figure was released in the Walmart-exclusive Droid Factory set, and basically unchanged again in the 2011 Toys R Us-exclusive Death Star Trench Run collection.  This Droid Factory Luke is a zillion times better than the Vintage one.  Don't even bother getting it, just get this one.  Both have the same (incorrect) Darth Vader lightsaber hilt for his belt, but once you get beyond that we're talking Big Improvement here.

The 2008 release adds lots of deco to the helmet.  Note the black stripes on the yellow rectangle on the helmet, the black lining on the sides and interior of the helmet, the black stripes along the sides of the helmet... basically, it's a lot of black.  At first, I thought this figure was a dud because it still didn't have battle-damage or scuffing, but the reality is the newer release puts several paint apps that just plain weren't there in 2006.  But wait, there's more!  The straps around his legs and crotchial zone are now painted shiny silver, the map on his left forearm is loaded with more paint whereas the previous release was virtually unpainted, and his belt is now grey instead of brown.  The later release is significantly more striking, and most if not all of the changes bring it much closer to being accurate to the film.  Oh yes-- and it provides significantly more bang for the buck.  The Walmart exclusive set was $10, plus it included a really cool R2-D2 and a C-3PX piece.  And the vintage figure?  Not so much.

Luke has 14 points of articulation and is pretty nicely articulated.  It's not perfect, the straps do get in the way of him being a good pilot as any stiff plastic acts sort of like a skirt piece.  It can still bend, but it's annoying.   There's a hole in the belt for the lightsaber, and at this point I can't imagine getting more detail or articulation into this costume without making a bigger figure or bringing back soft goods... and old-school t-crotches which are great for vehicle pilot action figures.

Collector's Notes: This figure set, by itself, has been creeping up.  However, the lot of 6 can sometimes be had cheaply, and it should be bought if you like to collect robots.  I assume that you do.  It's a great Luke and easily the best X-Wing Pilot Luke you can get right now.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,981: January 16, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,931: R2-D2

R2-D2 Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No.     87755
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 4 of 6
Includes: Luke Skywalker, piece of C-3PX, lightsaber, hilt, helmet, blaster
Action Feature: Twist dome for leg retraction action
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Luke is a young Jedi who helps defeat the Empire. His Astromech droid R2-D2 is damaged during the attack on the first Death Star.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's shelf.

Commentary: I've got a lot to say about the Luke in this set, but today it's all about R2-D2.  The 2008 Droid Factory series of exclusives was a gift to fans of robots and weird repaints, as you could buy 13 figures for $60 and all of them save for one were, at the time, changed enough to be quite interesting.  R2 in particular brought us an amazingly detailed battle-damaged take on the figure, built on the R4-G9 mold with its retracting central leg activated by the dome twisting.   It looks spectacular.   The front of the figure looks distressed, panels are popped open, wires are exposed, and the light under his eye is dimmed signaling the fake-out of the droid's death from the end of the original film.  Cables, silver circuits, and plenty of grime are rubbed into his body while the legs are, aside from some dirt, pretty much the same as usual.  The back of the robot has bulging damaged panels and exposed wires as well, leading one to wonder just what kind of lovable genius sculpted (and also approved) such a depressing take on one of sci-fi cinema's most beloved plastic pals who's fun to be with.

The dome is also notable in that there are some serious scuffs, as well as more soot and blown-open panels.  This is a droid that looks like it was pulled out of a scrapyard, even the toy looks like it's seen better days.  It's really amazing, and to be honest I'm wondering if I missed this one in the archives.  It's so fantastic, you really ought to get one.  The price isn't too high, so you can if you're so inclined.  I know you've all got, what, something over 2 and something under 30 R2 figures by now, but go ahead and add this one to your stash.  And if Hasbro ever repaints the mold, get that too.

Collector's Notes:  This figure showed up with X-Wing Luke at Walmart for a mere $10 at first, and the duo (sans C-3PX part) were sold with a Toys R Us exclusive Death Star Trench Run boxed set (with an X-Wing, Darth Vader, and his TIE Fighter) late in 2011.  That R2-D2 was not significantly different than this one and for all intents and purposes, I'm classifying them as the same figure.   (The Vader from that set is just different enough to make you mad, though.)

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,931: November 7, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,926: Nicanas Tassu

NICANAS TASSU  Arena Battle
The Legacy Collection Target Exclusive Geonosis Arena Packs 2010
Item No.: Asst. 97645 No.  97651  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #5 of 6
Includes: Lightsaber, cloak, Count Dooku figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Ocotber 2010
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: The Jedi Knights rush to Geonosis to rescue Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Padme from execution. The Jedi brandish their lightsabers against the Geonosian warriors and the massive army of battle droids, super battle droids, and droidekas. All hope seems lost that any Jedi will survive this battle, then Yoda arrives with an army of clone troopers. Although many Jedi are lost that day, others survive this climactic battle that ushers in the Clone Wars.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's arena backdrop.  Which I'm pretty sure I chucked.

Commentary: One of the neat things about the fact that this line simply refuses to die is that Hasbro will come up with figures I never asked for.  Sometimes, I'm delighted.  Others, confused.  Nicanas Tassu is more of the latter.   "Don't you want the guy who tosses Anakin and Obi-Wan their lightsaber?"  No, I don't care.   While I can appreciate a figure that seems he was designed from an extra who foreshadowed Nic Cage's Fu Manchu from Werewolf Women of the SS, I have a pretty limited interest in any human Jedi without a speaking role in the movies.   This figure is a Mace Windu redeco with a new head... and that Mace Windu mold does take the paint nicely, but his leg movement is pretty limited.  You get 14 points of articulation and it's still sort of tricky to get a decent pose out of him.  Well, it's not impossible, but it's a little wonky.  

Most of my grousing comes from the fact that I don't care if this figure did or didn't get made.  Obviously, this isn't the benchmark of greatness, but Hasbro's decision to mold the head in brown and paint the face flesh is a little iffy as well.   The figure's face sculpt isn't bad, and he does have a fair amount of personality with those eyebrows, but I gotta say the figure pales in comparison to the excellent companion figure: a Count Dooku with a new head sculpt.  The set is still arguably worth the trouble of tracking down, but Nicanas is a snooze.

Collector's Notes: Despite being tough to find, the going rate of this set is about $10 these days.  The set was on sale during its window of availability in late 2010, which was bizarre.  After these guys quickly sold through, old stock (according to the date stamps) of the first wave of the Arena Battle showed up again and lingered.   $15 or so shipped is a pretty good deal.  Hey, at least it has an awesome Dooku in it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,926: October 31, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,903: Republic Commando Fixer

REPUBLIC COMMANDO FIXER Republic Commando Delta Squad
The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33260
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, backpack, 4 more figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $39.99-$49.99
Availability: July 2011
Appearances: Star Wars: Republic Commando video game

Bio:   Boss leads the elite commando squad and has proven himself to be an exceptional soldier and natural leader. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's kitchen.

Commentary: Green!  Republic Commando Fixer takes a retooled body and gives it a new shine.  The coloring is a little better than the original, although the simulated weathering isn't all that hot.  It still looks good, and things like jointed ankles and knees are new to this, the second version of the figure.   The sculpt is crisp and he feels a little less chunky than the original, which no doubt comes in part from an evolution in video game aesthetics as Fixer now looks a little less like the bulky Master Chief of Halo fame which seemed to be a popular standard in the early 2000s.

With a blaster and backpack, this is an improved figure and arguably the best version of the character we'll ever see on a toy shelf.  I can't imagine Hasbro will go back for thirds with these guys, unless they update him for the animated Clone Wars series to hang out with Boss at some point.   (And let's face it, unless Hasbro knifes The Clone Wars it'll happen sooner or later.)

Collector's Notes:  While commanding a decent price on the secondary market, I still see these in Toys R Us stores as recently as this month.  It can be had if you are lucky and hunt, and if history is any indication you should get it before it starts ascending to that annoyingly high price point like The Saga Collection Delta Squad set.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,903: September 28, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,899: C-3PO

C-3PO  Arena Battle
The Legacy Collection Target Exclusive Geonosis Arena Packs 2010
Item No.: Asst. 97645 No.  97652  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 6 of 6
Includes: R2-D2 figure
Action Feature: Swappable Battle Droid head, blaster, backpack, R2-D2 figure
Retail: $12.99
Availability: October 2010
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: The Jedi Knights rush to Geonosis to rescue Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Padme from execution. The Jedi brandish their lightsabers against the Geonosian warriors and the massive army of battle droids, super battle droids, and droidekas. All hope seems lost that any Jedi will survive this battle, then Yoda arrives with an army of clone troopers. Although many Jedi are lost that day, others survive this climactic battle that ushers in the Clone Wars.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's former kitchen.

Commentary: When is C-3PO not C-3PO?  When it's based on the 4-LOM body!  This super-articulated figure is swimming in moving parts and fantastic paint detailing, plus it has a removable head which can be swapped out for a Battle Droid just like in the movies.  This version looks way better than the 2002 deluxe release (which was subsequently repackaged in 2006 and 2007), and I assume the reason Hasbro went with the 4-LOM body, aside from it being unused most years, was because the hands were ready to grip a blaster.  That's something most C-3POs cannot do.  This 2-pack is a lot of fun, so if the price is right go ahead and get it.  Both figures are improved over previous releases.

Collector's Notes:  This set dried up pretty quickly.  They were all over in late 2010, and then suddenly vanished in a pile of what seemed to be a new shipment (but not new production, if you checked the date stamps, and I did) of the 2009 arena packs.  The 2010 sets were pretty nice, but as they're harder to get you may have to shell out for them.  I can't help but wonder if more are out there to be had, or if figures like this one are due to be repackaged in light of the upcoming 3D rereleases.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,899: September 24, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,888: C-3PO

C-3PO Resurgence of the Jedi
The Legacy Collection Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87752 No. 93144
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Additional figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99
Availability: November 2009
Appearances:  Star Wars

Bio:     The worry-prone droid is repaired after an unfortunate encounter with Tusken Raiders while he and Luke search for R2-D2.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' former back yard.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,882: Darth Maul

DARTH MAUL & I-5YQ
The Legacy Collection Droid Factory Wal-Mart Exclusive
Item No.:   Asst. 87638 No. 94076
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #4 of 5
Includes: Cloak, lightsaber, Dark Trooper legs, I-5YQ figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $17.00
Availability: July 2009
Appearances: Various novels, comics

Bio:  In the novel Darth Maul: Shadow Hunter, the Sith apprentice goes after an information broker who knows too much about a plan to destroy the Republic. The broker's modified protocol droid I-5YQ is left without an owner after the deadly outcome between his master and Darth Maul.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's desk.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,876: Nho'Apakk

NHO'APAKK and Paploo
The Legacy Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87535 No. 93129
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #BD18
Includes: Hood, staff, droid piece, extra Ewok
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $7.99
Availability: September 2009
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio:  Nho'Apakk and Paploo are two of the Ewoks who inhabit the forested moon of Endor. Like all Ewoks, they prefer to avoid confrontation but are fearsome warriors when threatened. They fight alongside the Rebels to subdue the stormtroopers during the Battle of Endor, ultimately helping to defeat the Empire.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's bathroom?  I think he's standing on toilet paper.  I took this picture a few years ago and I don't know exactly what I was thinking.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,859: Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI  Arena Battle
The Legacy Collection Target Exclusive Geonosis Arena Packs 2010
Item No.: Asst. 97645 No.  97646  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #1 of 6
Includes: Lightasber, Super Battle Droid figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Ocotber 2010
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: The Jedi Knights rush to Geonosis to rescue Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Padme from execution. The Jedi brandish their lightsabers against the Geonosian warriors and the massive army of battle droids, super battle droids, and droidekas. All hope seems lost that any Jedi will survive this battle, then Yoda arrives with an army of clone troopers. Although many Jedi are lost that day, others survive this climactic battle that ushers in the Clone Wars.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' Geonosis backdrop, which was thrown away by the time you read this.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,857: K-3PO

K-3PO Defense of Hoth
The Legacy Collection Target Exclusive Gift Set
Item No.: Asst. 97632  No. 97634
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Hat, pistol, rifle, backpack, Radar Laser Cannon, Turret, 2 Rebel figures, medium repeating blaster
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $39.99
Availability: October 2010
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio:  The Rebels defend their base on Hoth with every available weapon in their arsenal. They know they can't defeat the Imperial forces attacking them, but they need to delay them long enough to evacuate the base.  Rebel troopers blast the enemy from laser towers that ring the base, and fire anti-vehicle cannons and medium repeating blasters at the Snowtroopers and AT-ST walkers.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' apartment.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,845: R-3PO

R-3PO Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No. 87816
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 3 of 6
Includes: Han Solo, piece of C-3PX
Action Feature: Removable goggles fit on eyes, hat
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: The Alliance's command center on Hoth includes the diverse tactical expertise of the impetuous Han Solo and the protocol droid R-3PO.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's toy room.

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,837: Shaak Ti

SHAAK TI The Force Unleashed
The Legacy Collection Shared Exclusive Expanded Universe Wave
Item No.: Asst. 87535 No. 93308
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #BD61
Includes: Lightsaber
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $7.99
Availability: May 2010
Appearances: The Force Unleashed video game

Bio:   Shaak Ti is a Jedi Master and member of the Jedi Council. She survives Order 66 and eventually arrives on Felucia, where she prepares the Force-sensitive Felucians for an unavoidable encounter with Darth Vader.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's old kitchen.

Commentary: Perfect? No. Good? Yes.  This Shaak Ti has face paint that's a little more white, and a little more intense than the other figures which hold her likeness, but she's still really good.  A super-articulated figure, this release represents her during the first Force Unleashed game where she's an outcast on Felucia, wearing rags in a manner which shows of her rack  nicely, as most outcasts fighting for survival are known to do.  Her head is posed in a more dynamic manner, plus she's wearing spikes and various wrappings rather than the incredibly thick and ornate Jedi robes of her movie appearances.  The big advantage here is that there is nothing to really get in the way of her articulation, making her an ideal figure to pose and duel Starkiller or other figures.

As a naked alien lady, she turned out quite well.  Her unique reddish/pinkish skin color is covered in rags and tribal markings, plus her clothes are vaguely tattered.  I guess it's meant to represent the breakdown of order, going from overly modest to dresses-too-sexy? I have no idea.  But it makes for a great figure, which has a fairly pale blue lightsaber blade.  If you're collecting this line and have the means, I have to assume you picked her up when you had the chance-- if you didn't, keep your eyes peeled.

Collector's Notes: Video gamers tend to spend a little more on toys, so it's no big surprise this Shaak Ti is now north of $30 loose.  So if you can get her for under $20, do so.  Just be prepared to pay up for this one.  While fans often decry the lack of Expanded Universe figures, The Force Unleashed has about 40, including some repacks and duplicated troopers from gift sets.   To put things in perspective, the first game in the series got more action figures in roughly two years than the original Star Wars movie in the entire original vintage line spanning 1978-1985.  Good luck finding one!

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,837: June 28, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,836: Rodian Jedi

RODIAN JEDI  Arena Battle
The Legacy Collection Target Exclusive Geonosis Arena Packs 2010
Item No.: Asst. 97645 No.  97647  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #2 of 6
Includes: Lightsaber, Battle Droid figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: October 2010
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: The Jedi Knights rush to Geonosis to rescue Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Padme from execution. The Jedi brandish their lightsabers against the Geonosian warriors and the massive army of battle droids, super battle droids, and droidekas. All hope seems lost that any Jedi will survive this battle, then Yoda arrives with an army of clone troopers. Although many Jedi are lost that day, others survive this climactic battle that ushers in the Clone Wars.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's old kitchen.

Commentary:  While I can't be 100% certain, I'm pretty sure this Rodian Jedi exists because of fellow megafan Dan Curto's potential possible patronage of the character.  As far as I can tell from official sources, he has no name, but he is a pretty dang cool figure.  Based on a similar 2003 release with no articulation to speak of, the 2010 Rodian Jedi uses a Luke Skywalker body with new hands and a new head, showing that Hasbro really is getting good at making the most out of its existing mold investments.  This release has a delightful 14 joints and a swell green lightsaber, making it a nice and frankly unique release in a sea of retreads.  Of course, I realize that this figure is also a retread, but it's a big improvement over the previous release as he can stand up on his own more easily, and has a much larger head.  The detailing of the Expanded Universe Luke outfit works perfectly for this creation, which-- as far as I can tell-- is completely derived from a Hasbro in-house concept, from a piece of fanfic, or some healthy mix. (Correct me if I'm wrong.) 

It's a great figure and to date, this is the best Rodian Jedi Knight figure you can buy.  I do suggest you get it if the price is right, despite the wonky eyes the companion Battle Droid is still pretty good.

Collector's Notes: This set, and the whole second wave of Arena packs, seems to be climbing on the secondary market-- be very surprised if you can get it for under the original price.  If you can, buy it.  You won't be sorry!

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,836: June 27, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,819: Darth Nihil

DARTH NIHIL and Deliah Blue
The Legacy Collection Entertainment Earth Exclusive Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504  No. 91264
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #16
Includes: Lightsaber, comic, second figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99
Availability: November 2010
Appearances: Star Wars: Legacy comic books

Bio:   A powerful Sith warrior and a savvy ship's mechanic are caught up in the attack on Princess Marasiah Fel. Darth Nihl battles Cade Skywalker, the son of a Jedi that Nihl killed in the Massacre at Ossus. Delilah Blue repairs the Mynock so that its crew, the Jedi and the gravely wounded princess can flee the attacking Sith.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' backdrops.

Commentary:  As a figure that was rescued as an exclusive, Darth Nihil made a vocal portion of fans very happy.  And with good cause-- the figure is a super-articulated new sculpt with no (as far as I can tell) obviously reused parts.  A member of the Nagai race, his mere production is a nod to fans of the old Marvel comics as one of very few members of this race to see any sort of merchandising.  Covered with some black Sith tattoos and some Yuuzhan Vong-meets-Ren Faire armor, the end result is pretty cool.  I find it odd he doesn't wear pants, but his armored look really isn't that out of line with other toy lines like Masters of the Universe.  It's out of place in the "modern" (read: movie) era of the saga, because on the whole, men of this time wear pants.   Really, it's the least you can do.

The fringe looks great and hangs nicely, and the spikey shoulder pads look good as well.  The gloves are nothing fancy, but the Vong armor with its red highlights sets off his eyes nicely.  The hair sculpt is good, and the lightsaber "cane" is, I assume, a nod to the goth kids.  Oh, you wacky goth kids, making out all the time and not inviting me to your parties with your booze and on a good night, loose women.  Wait, where was I?  Right, the lamentations of a wasted young adulthood.

The figure holds his weapon just fine and has a removable blade.  Quite nice.  With the death of the comic pack line there isn't much hope for more characters from the Legacy comics, but hey, at least we got a few right?  Here's hoping Hasbro makes one or two more  between now and the time the line becomes unprofitable.

Collector's Notes: At press time the figure is still available and while I can't give exact numbers, it looks like it's going to be sold out shortly if it isn't already.  So I hope you got yours! This pairing is actually pretty nice, as you get two characters previously unmade, both of which were nods to Marvel's final comic stories, with great sculpts and excellent paint.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,819: June 4, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,814: R2-T7

R2-T7 Grizz Frix' Astromech Droid
The Legacy Collection Battle Over Endor
Item No.: Asst. 97639 No. 21452 
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #2 of 2
Includes: Removable third leg, 3 additional figures
Action Feature: Sensorcope pops up as you rotate his dome
Retail: $24.99
Availability: January 2011
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: Bravery.  Skill.  Loyalty.  These are defining characteristics of the starfighter pilots on both sides of the conflict at the Battle of Endor.  Whether they are Rebels or Imperials, these elite pilots are all focused on the same goal: victory.  They are deeply aware that they are deciding the future of the galaxy, and will do everything they can to complete their mission.    (Taken from the figure's packaging.  Note, there's no character-specific copy on the packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' Ultarama.

Commentary:  Part of the problem with Star Wars is that as it goes on, Hasbro proves that they're super-cool about listening to our requests.  "We want any Rebel pilot or astromech droid you can give us!"  Hasbro said "OK!" and delivered R2-T7, a droid so obscure that as far as I know he never really appeared anywhere prior to getting an action figure.   It's obscure, and according to the box this really obscure droid belongs to an equally obscure pilot (also requested by fans) named Grizz Frix.  Based on the 2004 R2-D2 Vintage mold, you basically know what to expect by now-- you get your third leg, a sensorscope which can pop up, and of course there's a removable panel which, once again, Hasbro glued down.  (I wish they didn't.)

The deco is quite good.  The dome has a sort of gunmetal grey paint on it, with black panel markings.  His various "facial" panels are red, as is the light under his bright black eye.  A couple of lights to the side of the dome are blue, and the end result is a striking design which, as always, I'm happy to have.   I don't know that this is an essential purchase-- the "Battle Over Endor" sets are some of the most obscure releases from Hasbro which still have a foot in the films-- but I'm crazy about Return of the Jedi stuff and any new droid I can get is going to make me happy.

Collector's Notes: The sets came in early 2011 and had quite the range of prices-- at first, $24.99, but fans have reported them as much as $10 higher.  Today the sets are about $20-$35, and if you can grab these sets for $20 you should consider yourself fortunate.  I mean, a box of pilots and a robot for $20?  How can you go wrong?

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,814: May 28, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,808: Republic Commando Sev

REPUBLIC COMMANDO SEV Republic Commando Delta Squad
The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33260
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, backpack, ammo clip thing
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $39.99-$49.99
Availability: July 2011
Appearances: Star Wars: Republic Commando video game

Bio:   Boss leads the elite commando squad and has proven himself to be an exceptional soldier and natural leader. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' old kitchen.

Commentary:  So Hasbro's back for round 2 of Sev, which is a good idea because the first boxed set of the Republic Commando figures was scraping $100 before a new-for-2011 edition came out.  It's better in some respects, and in others... not.  This one has better articulation, excellent paint, and by most fan standards, is an unquestionable improvement over the original.  The paint job is more modern, the red is darker, but it seems that the extra paint job and articulation has taken its toll, as an added clip-on piece for his right shin has been removed for this edition.  You might want to make sure you have both versions just to cobble together an "ultimate" version of your own.

By and large the set doesn't disappoint, but it's worth noting that this one cost about the same as the 2006 set, which had reduced articulation and two more figures than the 2011 release.  Hasbro did a great job getting fans the improve shoulder joints, knee joints, and ankle joints they desired and without even having to wait for a sequel.   This sort of thing proves there really is a market for Expanded Universe product still, and-- let's face it-- a lot of the product decisions we see about what does and doesn't get made really boils down to what Hasbro's current team feels like doing (and/or what the beancounters and management dictate.)  People still want to buy stuff, even if it's similar to stuff they bought five years ago!
  
Collector's Notes: The set was quite popular at Toys R Us stores in 2011, disappearing rather quickly from some stores.  The set currently sells for $40-$60, so if you stumble on one at or below retail price you ought to get it before the price shoots up.  Some Expanded Universe figures have a habit of getting expensive as video gamers have more money to spend on toys than toy people, it would seem, by virtue of there being fewer video game toys to buy. 

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,808: May 18, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,800: Exar Kun

EXAR KUN & Ulic Qel-Droma
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87971 
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #11
Includes: Double-bladed lightsaber, Cape, Dark Lords of the Sith #6
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: March 2010
Appearances: Tales of the Jedi  comic books

Bio: Ulic Qel-Droma is battling the dark side of the Force; he believes that if he can conquer it, he will avenge the death of his master.  He is attacked by Exar Kun, who feels the Jedi is a threat to his goals. As the two battle, they are unaware that Sith Lords from the past have other plans for their destiny. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' old back yard.

Commentary:  We're at 1,800?  Good lord.   I was hoping to have some sort of book, or at least calendar, deal at this point but since I don't let's look at Exar Kun, one of the last comic pack figures to hit mass retail.  While Darth Maul was the first double-bladed lightsaber to be rendered in plastic, Exar Kun's was one of the first seen in the entire saga when he debuted in the Tales of the Jedi comics, which took place a few thousand years prior to the movies.  Back then, a story on the pre-history of the Jedi was refreshing and new, but now it seems every few years we're treated to a new period of time in the continuity full of characters we don't know nor do we care about.  But I digress.

Exar Kun here is modeled after a much older-looking character, as in the comics he had black hair for the most part and looked pretty young.  He has a marking scratched into his forehead from the ancient Sith, plus scars from one of the duels with his former Jedi friends.  The character is modeled after art from the Jedi Academy novels, where his spirit annoys and corrupts Luke's students in "modern times."  The figure is nicely articulated and has a great sculpt, but why is his hair grey?  Other than wrinkles, there's only so much you can do to make a figure look old and hair is right there at the top of the list.  I would just say this is a poor decision (or factory mistake) on Hasbro's part, because the figure is decorated well otherwise.  He has lots of armor, and the cloth-meets-plastic cape hangs nicely and most important of all, actually looks good.  Hasbro seems to have some difficulty getting capes right, so it's worth pointing out when they come up with a design that basically works.  I'm particularly pleased with his belt and gauntlets, which feature more extensive coloring and some nifty detail.  Oh, and his lightsabers are totally cool too.  The super-articulated figure doesn't really have meaningful hip movement thanks to the design of his outfit, but what a design!  It's not like it would have looked better had they rendered it in cloth, and there's little to no chance of most people buying Exar wanting to crack him open and sit him in a ship.  So as he is, he looks pretty good, but I get the feeling customizers will enjoy him the most after they fix his hair.

Collector's Notes: When I reviewed Ulic two years ago, I wrote this: "Part of the final wave of comic packs (and a recent release), odds are you can still have a shot at getting this one cheaply."  I think the set was around $30 or less back then.  Today?  $100 as a start.  Wow.  See Hasbro, people are interested in new character figures!  I saw this wave in stores a few times, so it's interesting to see something really shoot up in price this steeply.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,800: May 8, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,798: Qui-Gon Jinn

QUI-GON JINN Jedi Legacy
30th Anniversary Collection Evolutions Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87480 No. 87562
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, robe, additional figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99-$25.99
Availability: February 2008
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio:  Qui-Gon Jinn was a revered, yet maverick and unconventional Human male Jedi Master. He was the Padawan to Count Dooku, and the mentor to Obi-Wan Kenobi and briefly Anakin Skywalker.  (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam's old apartment.

Commentary:  In 2008 this Qui-Gon Jinn was the definitive version of the character, and today... well, it still is. The mold has been trotted out a few times since then, proving that Hasbro can probably make more money by making a figure right the first time and just re-cranking it out in new packaging, in new gift sets, or with new accessories.  No doubt, the figure could be improved with a little more care in the paint.  The moustache and beard are thick, blending in to one another, where it seems they don't quite merge in the same way in the movies.  So really, Hasbro could get yet another use out of this figure just by painting the head better next time, although I'm a little sick of the mold after so many reissues.  It's still fairly good, though, except it still includes a 1999-style lightsaber without the flared blade.   At this point it's kind of inexcusable, but I digress.

The tall Jedi includes a removable cloth cloak which, as usual, is big to the point of being annoying.  But once you take it off, the sculpt is quite good.  Hasbro put in some great detail in the boots and outfit, with the textures turning out quite well.  He has some cloth elements and like most Jedi has difficulty sitting, but a 2012 Battle Pack version aimed to fix that by returning to squared-off t-crotch joints.  (At press time I don't have it and I'm quite eager to see how it turns out.)  For now, this Qui-Gon is the one all collectors should chase down, although I might suggest fun-loving collectors get the Movie Heroes rerelease-- I'll review him with his gun in the future, but the vintage version or any of the other releases are, for now, basically just as good as the original Evolutions set.

Collector's Notes: This figure has been reissued a few times.  In 2009, it was part of a mail-in offer with an Eopie, but that release lacked with robes.  In 2012, it was put out on a Vintage cardback as well as a Movie Heroes and Discover the Force package.  The Movie Heroes one is notable for introducing a new firing gun, which is an odd accessory for a Jedi master.  The Jedi Legacy Evolutions set is the version you really ought to buy since it includes a novel version of Luke Skywalker and the only movie Bultar Swan to date.  The set can be had for as little as $15 before shipping, and it's totally worth it as all three figures are excellent.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,798: May 4, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,793: R5-D4

R5-D4 Remote Control
The Legacy Collection (US Target Exclusive, pictured)
Item No.: Asst. 89051 No. 91741
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber remote
Action Feature: Beeps, moves, lights up
Retail: $16.99
Availability: 2009
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio:  R5-D4, also known as Red, was one of the last droids produced in the low cost Industrial Automaton R5 line, a line plagued with malfunctions. As a result, R5-D4 was owned by many beings and in a constant state of used sale. His programming became jealous of other droids that were capable of serving without failure and had loyal masters.   (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' something.  I see some video games.  I'm guessing old apartment.

Commentary:  You don't need multiple remote control droids, but R5-D4 is as good as any.  The sculpt is very similar to the astromechs produced before 2004, specifically around 2002-2003.  The wires on the feet are pretty wonky, and the figure rolls ahead and beeps.  It's cute, it goes forward and backward, and that's it. The sculpt isn't as good as the 2011 or 2006 release, but you really just want to get it to drive around on the table anyway.  There are moving parts, but nothing is jointed in any meaningful way.  It's slightly larger than a normal astromech, but that's OK-- you're getting it for the play feature and not authenticity.

Collector's Notes: This wave of RC droids came and went pretty quick, and now goes for $15 or so per robot.    Oddly, R5-X2 goes for as little as $5, and that droid only exists as an RC figure so far.  I'd suggest starting with it, and if you like it, get the rest.  After all, you need an R5-X2!  R5-D4's overall best figure is the 2006 Saga Collection version, but the 2011 Vintage one with build-a-droid parts is pretty nice too.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,793: April 27, 2012