Reviews of Kenner and Hasbro Star Wars action figures. Presented by Galactic Hunter.
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IMPERIAL SHOCK TROOPERStormtrooper x Shocktrooper The Force Awakens The Black Series 6-Inch Figure Walmart Exclusive Item No.: No. B4996 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Rifle, pistol Action Feature:n/a Retail:$18.96 Availability:November 2015 Appearances: Star Wars Battlefront
Bio: Adept with heavy weaponry, Shock Troopers serve as elite frontline forces and even as bodyguards for the Emperor himself. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Commentary: I haven't had to do a lot of pound-the-ground toy hunting in quite some time - these days (as an employee of the world's finest Internet toy collector store) I just get things online. It works pretty well, but we don't get all the exclusives - so I had to make a map and spend a few hours locating a Imperial Shock Trooper. Oh sure, the store locators said they were in stock, but "in stock" does not mean "on shelf." More hunting was necessary, and much gas was wasted, and dinner was delayed. (On the bright side, fellow citizens of Phoenix, the Toyko Express on Indian School is quite delightful.) Was it worth going around for a red Stormtrooper that's not as red as the one we're selling at work? I'd say it was.
If you have a white Stormtrooper, you know what to expect here - a figure that is, without question, more interesting than the ones we're getting for the new movie. They aren't bad as such, but the new line lacks double-jointed elbows that so many of us crave - so even though this is a figure from a video game, it's pretty fantastic. You get the same guns with added silver wear and tear, and that looks fantastic. As always the smaller blaster fits in the holster with no problems, and the guns fit in his hands just fine. Repaints have to work with diminished expectations, and I would say that this is a good thing. All Hasbro has to do is to deliver a figure that's as good as the exact same figure we got in the past, and they did. There are no real surprises here, as he has bend-and-swivel wrists and rocker ankles. The leg joints are a little stiff so it may take a few seconds to get them just-so to keep him standing, but it's not exactly a challenge.
The figure is covered in Revenge of the Sith Shocktrooper-inspired red paint, with big stripes and bold blasts of crimson. There's more to it, though - not only does it have the typical markings and the new red ones, but the belt was decorated a quasi-canvas color. It's a little browner on the back, giving it a distinctive look. This is pretty important, as this figure is Stormtrooper/Sandtrooper #8 in this scale - and we've got 2 more coming before the year is up. Heck, maybe more - Hasbro never formally announced this figure or most of its 2015 offerings, leading to the dubious benefit of reduced competition in aisles and a general feeling of being less informed, more likely to miss out, and in some cases a growing desire to let completism die. Nobody wins when they can't get the toys they want at suggested retail prices.
At $1 below non-exclusive regular figures, this is probably the best 6-inch value of the year. Having not played the game - I only own a Wii U from the new console generation - I can't vouch for its on-screen accuracy. I can, however, say it delivers prequel markings on trilogy figures. Perhaps it's blasphemous, but I like it - there's only so much Hasbro can do to exploit its tooling library, and this is certainly more interesting than battle damage. It's also frustrating because here's yet another figure that exists in the 6-inch line that doesn't exist as a 3 3/4-inch figure. It is neat, though, but as with many of these figures this was bought out of habit as much as a hobby - I have zero emotional attachment to it other than that it looks cool. Part of me wishes the line launched with this figure, because it's really nice - clean paint lines, glossy red shoulders and lower legs, and it's just so pretty to look at. But now, in the context of a line of dozens of 6-inch figures, it struggles to stand out.
Collector's Notes: I got mine at Walmart on November 16 during what ended up being a roughly 3-hour hunt. This is what happens when your wife leaves you alone for the night and you write about toys.
IMPERIAL NAVY COMMANDOThe Force Unleashed: Sith & Imperial Troopers The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33261 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Blaster, backpack Action Feature:n/a Retail:$39.99 Availability:August 2011 Appearances: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed video game
Bio: The navy commando officer leads a squad that consists of several troopers, a sergeant and a medic. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam Pawlus' former kitchen.
Commentary: The Imperial Navy Commando came in a set which, frankly, is kind of annoying. It's a nice figure and a cool design, but it comes form the lesser ports of the Force Unleashed games, with last-gen exclusive characters that a lot of people flat-out will not recognize. You get 14 points of articulation on this all-new sculpt, which was also shared with a Commander figure in the very same set. Hasbro put a little extra deco into this figure on the back, under the backpack, where you can't see it. Smart. It's still cool, though, and is a fun hybrid of Stormtroopers, Scout Troopers, and various concept designs. Do I detect a whiff of McQuarrie's early Snowtrooper? I think I do. It has a Clone gun for some reason, but hey, it's cool. The chunky working holster is nice too.
The level of detail isn't bad, but there's not a lot of painted detail needed here. It's a white figure with black deco, and Hasbro is pretty good at making these nowadays. Get it if you can, it's neat and looks like it fits in with many of your other toys. What more can you ask for? Aside better pricing, I mean.
Collector's Notes: The set is expensive now, but was odd when it first hit too. Just Darth Phobos would sell for $30 on eBay, and the whole set was $40. Y'all so bad at math. Now it's a lot more, so consider pricing out the set versus individual figures and be smart about it... it's probably more sensible to buy the set and sell off the spares.
DARTH MALGUSExpanded Universe The Vintage Collection Basic Figures Item No.: Asst. 37499 No. 37513 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:#VC96 Includes:Lightsaber, hilt, removable cape with wire Action Feature:n/a Retail:$9.99 Availability:April 2012 Appearances: The Old Republic
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 Force be with you! (Taken from the figure's packaging. No specific character information.)
Image: Adam's photo dump.
Commentary: With few A-grade movie characters left-- OK, technically none-- it's a good thing Hasbro is moving on to the video games. While I haven't played The Old Republic, nor will I, I have to say that Darth Malgus is one fine looking action figure. Big and imposing, the game's developers came up with a design that looks like an incomplete, but beefy, Darth Vader. The articulation is pretty much normal with 14 joints, but check out the sculpt and deco. There's a lot of glossy elements, and some simulated "damage" on the shoulders. OK, the damage looks crappy, but let's get by that and look at the gauntlets. Each one has several individually-painted lights and switches, bringing his armor to life while his chest remains relatively simple. The figure's bald, damaged head recalls Anakin Skywalker, while his breathing apparatus seems similar to Darth Vader. Heck, even his black armor resembles Vader, and the double cape is a nice touch too. By default, he has a cloth cape hanging off his back, but he has a hooded robe with some wire in it which you can pose for added Sith menace.
It's a neat and fairly well-executed figure, but difficult to find as is the case with most figures this year. For $10-$20 it's a nice figure, but not really for $50.
Collector's Notes: While these figures did ship to stores, they sold through very quickly and retailers didn't get all that many. They're de facto online exclusives for the time being, so if you want one you may be best off buying a case or splitting a case with a buddy, as individual figures have reportedly sold for north of $50 over the summer. eBay usually has it at $20-$30, which is still obscene but it's not as bad as the reported prices at Celebration VI in Orlando.
REPUBLIC COMMANDO FIXERRepublic 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.
HAN SOLORebel Hero Power of the Force PC Game Item No.: No. 99180 Manufacturer:Kenner Number:n/a Includes:Blaster, CD-ROM disc, keyboard playset Action Feature:n/a Retail:$39.99 Availability:1998 Appearances: n/a
Bio: Explore 7 Worlds of the Star Wars galaxy! Battle TIE Fighters, search for the Death Star and destroy the Empire! (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
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!
STARKILLERVader's Apprentice The Vintage Collection Basic Figures Item No.: Asst. 37499 No. 37518 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:#VC100 Includes:2 lightsabers, 2 hilts, backpack, skirt, shoulder armor, 2 gauntlets Action Feature:n/a Retail:$9.99 Availability:May 2012 Appearances: The Force Unleashed II
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 Force be with you! (Taken from the figure's packaging. No specific character information.)
Image: Adam Pawlus' photo area.
Commentary: With this wave, Hasbro seemed to be in a hurry to get rid of their plastic. Starkiller is another one of their nifty two-for-one figures, where you get a more-or-less "Rebel hero" outfit as well as an "Imperial Pilot" outfit all in one figure. The sculpt is arguably the best yet, with a really nice Sam Witwer likeness which, given the right paint or a less glossy plastic, would be perfect. As it is, it's merely above par and potentially their best yet.
Much like Fordo and a few others, you can change Starkiller pretty easily. He ships in his "pilot" outfit, and the pilot harness easily comes off like a belt. To get him into his other outfit, you have to slide up a "skirt" piece, snap on a couple of gauntlets, and pop off his head to apply his shoulder armor. It's a neat idea, but I personally would rather have had Hasbro make a second figure later. For those of us wanting two to display, we're basically out of luck for a while. He has 14 points of articulation, more or less what you expect as normal these days, and quite a bit of detail for such a simple outfit. I can only imagine how great a 100% new TIE Fighter Pilot might be in 2013 or 2014, should Hasbro decide to give it a spin!
The gear is pretty good, although the shoulder armor is a little bulky for its intended purpose. Unless you get it just right, he looks like he has no neck. The lightsabers could be bluer, but it seems Hasbro has been doing pale blue for most figures over the last year. It's a fun figure with enough to play around with that $10 doesn't seem like a bad price, but the plastic for the face could be a smidgen better. I love the pilot outfit, and the fact you can take off the skirt/straps and he can sit in a stolen TIE Fighter if you'd like. I'd say that as of now, this is Hasbro's best Starkiller and even if you didn't care for the game-- and many didn't-- the action figure is worth the asking price. Given the secondary market, it wouldn't stun me if the figure will cost more than the game, depending on where you shop. If you enjoyed the game, and enjoy late-era Galactic Empire costumes, this should fit right in with some of your Original Trilogy stuff. Maybe off to the side a bit would be the best place for Starkiller, but he should be at home tormenting your Stormtroopers and other figures.
Collector's Notes: I haven't seen this wave in stores yet, but you knew that. This one came from online, you can order a case at the link below or on any of the fine sponsors at GalacticHunter.com.
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 Force be with you! (Taken from the figure's packaging. No specific character information.)
Image: Adam Pawlus' photo area.
Commentary: Sometimes there are character designs that are fantastic, ignoring the fact they came from a game you may never ever play (and may be a little off-model from said game.) Shae Vizla refined the notion of "female bounty hunter"-type which we previously saw with Rav Bralor, Aurra Sing, and Isabet Reau, and the result is way better. While I frequently bemoan recent price increases, every now and again Hasbro reminds you that you're actually getting more for your money. With a removable backpack, an alternate head rather than removable helmet, twin painted blasters, and a pair of flame effects, this is a superior action figure that, while not a perfect match with her game inspiration, actually seems to be slightly improved from the game design. (Which I say as someone who hasn't played the game-- I really do like Hasbro's helmet design better.) Here, watch this video, or don't. It's sort of redundant but I figure maybe YouTubers might get a kick out of it.
Shae Vizla-- which is similar to but spelled differently from Pre Vizsla-- is pretty much an "A" figure. Why not "A+"? The face paint needs a little bit of work, but generally it all looks great. Her unmasked head is molded in an orangey red, which means they use paint for her face-- which does wonders bringing out the detail. They even gave her some make-up! As of when I write this, I haven't opened the other figures from the wave yet but I don't think I'm being hyperbolic by saying that this may well be Hasbro's best figure ever. The articulation is the typical 14 points, without bonus movement at the wrists or hips, but the deco and sculpt are so fantastic it's going to be hard to beat. Darth Malgus was neat, sure, but the silver, gold, and other colors slathered over Ms. Vizla quite evenly shows that Hasbro can make a figure that can still impress collectors, even after 2,000 of the damn things. She lacks unsightly date or SKU stamps, and the copyright information is sculpted on the backside of her shins, safely out of view.
If I have to nitpick-- and you know I do-- the figure's only real failing come from the compatibility with accessories. While she can hold both pistols, there are no holsters, and these are more or less expected these days. The guns themselves are fantastic, seemingly molded in black plastic with silver and blue paint. They're also different sculpts. The flames are gorgeous and fit perfectly into exceptionally-designed gauntlets, however gravity will cause them to sag within minutes. I appreciate Hasbro spending the money to include the detail, but I'd rather Hasbro not go through the expense of including such an accessory if the result is non-functional.
The helmet is a little different than the game, with a shorter, uh, "face" plus a few other streamlined details on the armor. I have a feeling you'll hang me for being OK with it being less authentic, but when comparing the toy to the game art, I like the toy better.
There's no doubt that this is a character design out of a post-Halo world, with nods to the rich lore of Star Wars history and, if I'm not mistaken, a nod or two to the great Samus Aran. There are very few action figures in this line which look and feel like they would warrant a $9.99 price tag, but this is one of them. If you shell out $10 or even $15 for her, I doubt you'll be sorry-- you can see where your money is going on this one, a strong contender for the best aesthetic achievement of the year and perhaps the new figure to beat as the entire line is concerned. She looks more like she stepped out of a video game than from Star Wars, but geez, it's gorgeous!
Collector's Notes: This figure is super-new so you may not have seen it yet. As such, I suggest haunting your local toy shop or clicking the link below to order a case from our sponsors, which supports us, which means you'll get more videos if you like that sort of thing.
REPUBLIC COMMANDO SEVRepublic 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.
PROXY Communications Droid The Legacy Collection Toys "R" Us Exclusive Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Figure Packs Item No.: Asst. 97910 No. 97912 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:#2 of 2 Includes:none Action Feature:n/a Retail:$29.99 Availability:April 2010 Appearances: The Force Unleashed
Bio: This prototype holodroid has been Galen Marek's companion for many years. PROXY is a one-of-a-kind droid that uses advanced hologram technology and built-in servos to alter his appearance, becoming virtually anyone. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam's old kitchen.
Commentary: Oh PROXY, you were one of the more memorable characters in The Force Unleashed. As a plot device, this character seemed to have more personality than a lot of his human counterparts, given a hard-working personality and the kind of can-do attitude about attacking your employer rarely seen outside a Pink Panther movie. An entirely new mold, the figure is super-articulated, super-thin, and a really nice recreation of the digital character. Leg articulation isn't perfect, but when it comes to exclusives like this, or weird Expanded Universe designs, they rarely are.
The skeletal robot basically sweats mist and projects holographic images on it, giving him the illusion of being other people. I don't think the concept-as-technology holds a lot of water, as it were, but it was fun to see him take on random character skins as "training programs" for Starkiller. If you get in real close, you can see wires, pistons, and other cables holding him together making him look like a part of the typical "used" Star Wars universe while technically being one of the highest-tech pieces of military equipment available to the Empire. Heck, even Darth Vader's suit looked like an Apple product despite being cobbled together after an accident. I mean, I assume that sort of attire isn't off-the-rack, but since I shop mostly out of dumpsters I am not up on galactic couture.
The deco here is good, there's a lot of grey but silver, purple, and yellow break it up nicely. A little more purple around the elbows and slightly darker "metal" parts would really sell the look, as the colors are a little muted compared to the rich blacks and vibrant purple seen on the in-game character model. Should Hasbro ever decide to rerelease and repaint, this figure could go from great-- and it is great-- to superb just by selecting slightly different materials. If you stumble on this set in your journeys, I do suggest buying it-- the Mandalorian Starkiller, PROXY, and redesigned Jumptrooper alone made this a worthwhile purchase. (The clear Stormtrooper less so... I'm terrified about keeping it from discoloring.)
Collector's Notes: The set came out during a real lull after the end of red-and-white Legacy and before Vintage launched, and also sat around for a bit. But because this is a good figure, the secondary market picked up on him and just this one robot will cost you about $15-$25. And the whole set was $30 when you skipped it-- see what you get for passing up a good deal? You get screwed. The boxed set is also a little more expensive than its issue price, but it appears to be cheaper than buying the figures separately. While I personally dislike seeing figures shoot up on the secondary market, it's nice to see that things fans asked for sometimes command a premium-- I'd rather see something good gain value than something "rare." And now that Hasbro is aware how much this guy costs, I'd say it's high time to rerelease it wouldn't you?
HEAVY TROOPER Battlefront II Clone Pack 30th Anniversary Collection Diamond/Previews Exclusive Item No.: Asst. 87561 No. 87466 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Rocket launcher, rocket, 5 more figures Action Feature:Squeeze legs to reposition arms Retail:$39.99 Availability:November 2007 Appearances: Star Wars: Battlefront II
Bio: These front-line troopers receive special training to take out enemy vehicles, using powerful rocket launchers and other heavy weapons. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam's former apartment.
Commentary: Hasbro wisely realized just how much mileage they could get out of their clone molds, and the Heavy Trooper was what Bacara got. It's the same sculpt as the 2005 figure, complete with the squeeze-the-legs-to-aim-the-gun action. (It's a nice action.) The big deal here is the new color and the gun, which for Clone fanatics is more than enough reason to shell out the cash to get one. The figure is now painted in a gray color rather than maroon (or camo, or blue) and sports some "battle damage" scrapes and markings. There are some silver highlights, but he's still the "can't really sit" figure from 2005, more or less.
The gun-- so far exclusive to this figure and this set-- is the high point here. The long black rocket is removable from the launcher, but does not fire-- this is unusual for a Hasbro product, as spring-loaded whatevers tend to find their way into most of the toys where it would be appropriate. Why they neglected to include on here is beyond me-- I would assume it might have to do with a reduced lead time to make the set, but it's hard to know for certain. (After all, we can't ask Hasbro questions about all 2,000 or whatever figures.) This figure looks good and is basically acceptable as a plaything, but it's more of a "pose" figure than an "action" figure. It's kind of funny to see that it has a mechanized feature to aim his rocket launcher... but the launcher does not fire.
Collector's Notes: The set was repackaged in the blue-and-white 2008 "Legacy" colors, making these figures not terrible tough to locate. The price varies based on a variety of factors, but has sold recently for as little as $26. Plus a lot of shipping.
GEONOSIAN WARRIOR Republic Commando Delta Squad The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33260 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Sonic blaster Action Feature:n/a Retail:$39.99-$49.99 Availability:July 2011 Appearances: Star Wars: Republic Commando video game
Bio: A dirty filthy Geonosian. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam Pawlus' former kitchen.
Commentary: This Geonosian Warrior continues the proud tradition of fairly decent figures being made based on the Sun Fac mold since 2006. This particular figure has more in common with the 2010 Geonosis Arena 2-pack reissue, as he has knee joints. (Big improvement.) I like this one a lot overall-- the coloring is good, the armor is nice, there's a red jewel on his torso, Hasbro did a nice job making this one stand out. That's actually one problem I have with Geonosians as a whole, there's no real consistent coloring in either the movie or cartoon style-- each one looks fairly unique, so those looking to build an army will need to buy several of a single figure rather than buy a few, here and there, as new versions are made.
His accessory is a sonic blaster similar to others released in the line. With bronze, brown, and green, it stands out nicely. No staff was included this time around, but that's OK-- I can get sticks out in the yard.
With this current articulation structure-- about 14 joints-- he feels sturdier than some of his ancestors. Previous Geonosians lacked key leg joints or were designed without holes in their feet, so getting them to stand up would prove difficult if not impossible. That's not the case here! Since this Geonosian can stand upright, and he's got a stiff set of joints, it seems like he should have no problems standing for the long haul. The only variable, and I haven't had it long enough to confirm this, is that the legs' unique shape may result in bending with heat or gravity over time in ways the joints can't easily help-- so warping could be possible, but the material feels better than other figures. So yeah.... hard to say. My guess is you won't buy this figure on its own merits anyway since it was packaged with a new and improved Delta Squad, but I still like it and would probably support buying it for its own merits.
Collector's Notes: I see this set quite a bit, although it would seem some stores are swimming in them while others... not. It is my assumption that this will be a sought-after set in a few years unless Hasbro releases individually packaged versions of all the Delta Squad members, so go get it now, OK?
REPUBLIC COMMANDO BOSS 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 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 in the backdrop from the packaging. It's a nice backdrop.
Commentary: You can't go wrong doing video game characters as a rule-- especially if the design of a figure, like Boss here, outweighs the "but I haven't played the game!" factor. I don't care if you missed this one on the Xbox, it's still a nice design that fits right in to your movie-esque Clone Wars toy shelves. While not the greatest clone of 2011-- there are far too many awesome figures in the running for that position this year-- it's quite good, and like Scorch before him, another instance of several figures using the bulk of the same body. This time around, the almost super-articulated figure sports 14 points of articulation, just like fans asked for a few years ago. I say "almost" because the shoulder armor was designed with aesthetics over functionality-- some fans will appreciate the detail in the armor, the extra panel lines, the special decoration. Others may enjoy that the "rings" in some figure shoulders aren't visible, and you still can raise and lower the arms. And others are just going to be upset he can't do jumping jacks. There's no pleasing everybody, but since he does have the ability to hold his gun with both hands I'm pretty happy overall.
Decorated with bright orange and some brown scuffs (which honestly don't feel right), the figure's blue visor looks out onto a world of fun. Or something. It's just a nice blue visor, with a black mouth, and a ton of orange on the chest, arms, and even the backpack. It's a great-looking figure and presumably now that Boss has knees and ankles, we won't see another version. Unless Hasbro decides to do a Clone Wars cartoon version, which may sound redundant but let's face it: it'd sell.
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.
IMPERIAL NAVY COMMANDO OFFICER The Force Unleashed: Sith & Imperial Troopers The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33261 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Blaster, backpack, pauldron Action Feature:n/a Retail:$39.99 Availability:August 2011 Appearances: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed video game
Bio: The navy commando officer leads a squad that consists of several troopers, a sergeant and a medic. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam Pawlus' kitchen.
Commentary: The Imperial Navy Commando Officer, like the bulk of the figures from this set, are from the Wii, PSP, and PS2 ports of The Force Unleashed. So rather than just splitting confused fans into "played the game" and "did not play the game" groups, now Hasbro is going down the platform line. I've played through the original game twice, and was wondering if I just forgot these guys. It turns out I didn't, which means I'm glad I have my wits about me but it also means I just bought a 5-pack of figures where the only character from the game I actually played is a repaint of something I already have several of. What the heck is wrong with me?
As another of the Empire's troopers, the designs seem to mix together new and old elements to give you something vaguely new. The helmet is a little like Bacara's, the pauldron is unquestionably Sandtrooper-esque, and the rangefinder is a nod to the Fetts. Of course, in terms of the chronology of the story, the design is most likely a "futuristic" take on the ARC Trooper design. There are more elements on the armor, like a swell backpack that plugs in to a "n" shape on his armor, plus a nifty holster molded right into the side of the leg so it actually works well and doesn't hinder the movement of the figure. This is a job well done, and he has 14 points of articulation as well. There's a lot to like here. An added grenade on the front of his armor is a nice touch, and the armor seems to be a pretty good plastic translation of the in-game polygonal model.
The standard version of the commando also comes in this set, so troop building is a little tough. The officer is almost identical to the normal guy, with a few notable changes. One, the deco on the back of the figure is different as the area in which the backpack plugs is unpainted on the officer. Two, the helmet has been resculpted to have a rangefinder. Three, the pauldron. And... that's it, really.
Collector's Notes: As a new set I've only just seen for the first time less than a week ago, I don't know how tough it will ultimately be to get one of these. Someone tried to hide this behind some Evolutions packs at my store, and it was the last one. I found it, I bought it. People who hide things are getting lazy, so do yourselves a favor and please stop trying. Nobody benefits when you hide stuff, particularly when you forget to go back and buy it. Now if you'll excuse me, a rerun of That 70's Show is about to start.
REPUBLIC COMMANDO SCORCH 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 Action Feature:n/a Retail:$39.99-$49.99 Availability:July 2011 Appearances: Star Wars: Republic Commando video game
Bio: Scorch is an expert with explosive materials and serves as Delta Squad's demolitions expert. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam's kitchen.
Commentary: This new set marks the third release of Scorch, the Republic Commando. THIRD. That's pretty impressive, considering the game from which he originated has no known sequels planned-- it also inspired a series of popular novels, and as many of you know (and some of you don't) Star Wars fiction breeds new divisions in the fanbase. Knights of the Old Republic and Rogue Squadron fans are a unique breed, similarly, fans of the Republic Commando novels have a different perspective on the state of the franchise, its story, and the toys. And these sub-categories often are willing to spend a lot of money on their favorite characters on eBay, so it's a good thing Hasbro decided to cash in for themselves and offer fans new, super-articulated version of the quartet plus a token Geonosian Warrior.
This new version of Scorch is an interesting beast because it traded authenticity for articulation. I won't say it's better, I won't say it's worse. I will say it's different. In 2006 fans were pretty vocal about their disdain for the lack of knee joints on the figure, and at the time that sort of thing had not yet become standard issue on new figures. As movement goes, this figure is the figure fans wanted back then-- he has 14 points of articulation, and every joint save for the wrists are essentially ball joints. He can easily hold his weapon, assume more poses, and essentially be the figure many fans always wanted. While the articulation is nice, it lacks some of the elements we saw on the original release-- so I can't say I'm giddy I just dropped $40 on a boxed set which is essentially a lateral move and not a complete improvement.
Hasbro's deco on the first figure may have been more authentic to the game-- the grey is much darker now, the dirt and damage doesn't quite match some of the art. The first one wasn't perfect either, but it was a smidgen closer. The 2006 release had some added white on the back of the helmet, while the backpack remained effectively the same. His blaster is now mostly one color with painted damage, while the 2006 release had some silver highlights. The real bummer is the change to his leg-- the cannister is gone, and the sculpted strap is now merely a flat, painted line. (Similarly, Sev's ankle accessory was left out.) His deco is similar to the first release, but different enough. I cannot recommend buying this set if you have the original, particularly if you're a stickler for gear and the like. If you missed it on the first go-round, it's a nice set and priced much lower than what Delta Squad had been selling for on eBay lately. It's good, and in some respects, it's better-- so go with whatever works for your budget, either way a nitpicker will find something wrong with it. (I prefer the 2006 one overall, but the articulation in the 2011 set is nice.) I know "be happy with what you have" is antithetical to the goal of toy collecting but in this case, there's really no harm in sticking with what you already paid for.
Collector's Notes: There seems to be some confusion about this set. While some units were sold on Toys R Us' web site, and others were sold at Entertainment Earth's booth at San Diego Comic-Con, it's my understanding that more are expect in stores shortly, most likely before the end of October. These should ship along with the Force Unleashed sets in the same case-- as far as I can tell, this run was just an early preview-- when is the last time a Toys R Us exclusive anything Star Wars ended up being tough to get during its initial run? There should be plenty to go around, but the price already varies. Comic-Con had it at $50, but I ordered it via their web site for $39.99.
KUL TESKA Separatist The Clone Wars Toys "R" Us Exclusive Item No.: No. 98392 Manufacturer:Hasbro Number:n/a Includes:Display base, card, die Action Feature:Rotating gun hand Retail:$14.99 Availability:July 2010 Appearances: The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes video game
Bio: Kul Teska is a villainous Skakoan scientist working for the Separatists during the Clone Wars. Because his home planet of Skako has an extremely dense atmosphere, he wears a protective suit to survive in low-pressure environments on other worlds. His specially designed armored suit has integrated rocket launchers and concealed shoulder blasters. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)
Image: Adam's desk.
Commentary: Standing close to 6-inches tall, Kul Teska is a really bizarre figure in the grand scheme of Hasbro's Star Wars toy line. He was a character that online fans didn't really ask for (or recognize), he stands about 2-inches taller than Darth Vader, and he comes in very non-standard packaging. If you collect the animated line (and you should) this is one of very few figures that didn't appear on the TV show, but rather, was born from a video game that may or may not have performed well. (I picked up a copy for under $5, brand new, shortly after this figure came out.) Due to his unusual appearance and size I'd suggest tracking him down. Fact is, non-standard large Star Wars characters that aren't essentially monsters are very uncommon and generally speaking if it doesn't fit in a basic cardback, Hasbro generally won't make it. (There are exceptions for the occasional gift set, of course.) This guy is big, nasty, and looks like an extremely dangerous version of Wat Tambor. With articulated knees and numerous other body parts, it has a good range of movement that should help make you feel like you got your money's worth. For the price and size, this figure is comparable to Hasbro's larger Marvel Legends and Spider-Man toys. While not quite as articulated, it's still quite good and the detail is certainly present. The flip-open shoulder launchers and big gun hand are nice touches, and I'm pretty glad this toy got made-- even if I haven't played the game he came from as of yet.
If you haven't played the game, I'm currently in the midst of it (I waited until it got cheap) and he's a boss character. As of the end of the first meeting, he really isn't much more than a cookie-cutter bad guy but maybe he gets more interesting as the game goes.
Collector's Notes: This figure was sold individually in a window box at Toys "R" Us stores starting in July 2010. At press time, it's still possible to find him there. It's quite rare for Hasbro to make a figure from a new video game in a toy line aimed at the kids, so it's something of a miracle that this one got out to stores.
