Figure of the Day: Day 239: Governor Tarkin

TARKIN Governor
Revenge of the Sith Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 85174 No. 85496
Number: III-45
Includes: Stand, blaster pistol
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $5.24
Availability: Summer 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Governor Tarkin controls the Seswana sector, which forms a strong defense perimeter against Separatists during the Clone Wars. He has a keen interest in special weapons construction and development. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The computer desk of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: One of the most exciting (and worst-kept) surprises from the final movie was a cameo by Tarkin, a recreation of Peter Cushing's classic character through the use of makeup and keeping the character out of focus. The results were pretty creepy, but at the right angle, pretty good. Unfortunately, the angle shown on the back of the packaging doesn't do it any favors and the figure itself probably looks more like Peter Cushing than the actor on the screen. The new action figure was nicely designed, with the normal six points of articulation plus wrists and elbows, allowing him to stand there and point. Oh, and carry his too-big gun. The texture on the costume feels like overkill based on what the pictures and film show (or don't show), but, still, it's a pretty nice little replica of a cameo in a movie that will likely only make sense to the bigger fans out there. A lot of fans say the 1997 version of Tarkin was "far superior," and I disagree-- each is good for different reasons. This one seems a bit more accurate in terms of proportions, but when you get right down to it, it isn't an either/or proposition-- one's for one movie, and this one is for another.

Collector's Notes: Tarkin from Revenge of the Sith was released only once and for a short period of time. A repaint of this mold in Star Wars colors is due any day now as part of Diamond's exclusive Death Star Briefing set, available online at your favorite store or a comic shop near you.

Day 239: December 31, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 238: Commander Gree

COMMANDER GREE Battle Gear
Revenge of the Sith Collection 1
Item No.: Asst. 85173 No. 86660
Number: III-59
Includes: Blaster, firing rifle, antenna
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $5.24
Availability: Late 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: On the planet of Kashyyyk, Commander Gree serves Jedi Master Yoda and helps the Wookiees fight the invading Separatists. When the secret Order 66 is issued, Commander Gree suddenly turns on the Jedi, but Yoda senses his betrayal and quickly eliminates him. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The toy shelves of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: After seeing the movie Revenge of the Sith, fans immediately started screaming out for a figure of Commander Gree, the Clone who tried to kill Yoda. Well, Hasbro listened, and gave us a figure that doesn't really look very close to how he looks in the movie. If you look at the carded image under "more images" below, you can see that the helmets really don't match. And that the suspenders are painted on. And that the shade of green is way wrong. (And if you look at the movie, he's missing the correct backpack.) So for a quickie Gree, it's an OK figure because it used the best available mold as the base for a pretty good repaint. The problem was that it wasn't good enough- the missing sculpted details might be easier to overlook if the coloring was a bit more accurate, but it wasn't, so fans today are still waiting for a new one.

Collector's Notes: There are two major variants. The first has a very light yellowish green visor. (Shown above.) The second has a much darker green visor, which is not shown here. The second release is much harder to get and came in around the same time as the corrected (and equally hard to find) Commander Bly. Any version of Gree is quite popular, so unless Hasbro makes another one, be prepared to shell out some money for one on the secondary market.

Day 238: December 30, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 237: Wedge Antilles

WEDGE ANTILLES Rebel Pilot
Original Trilogy Collection Internet Exclusive
Item No.: No. 87058
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, helmet, display base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Late 2005
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: A true hero of the Rebellion, Wedge Antilles has flown in some of the most important battles against the Empire, and lived to tell about them. The brave young Corellian first piloted an X-wing fighter in the battle of Yavin and helped Luke Skywalker destroy the first Death Star. A few years later, during the battle of Hoth, he and tailgunner Wes Janson were the first to successfully take down an Imperial walker using a harpoon and tow-cable. During the Battle of Endor, Wedge, as Red Leader, spearheaded an attack that took aim at the Second Death Star's main reactor. In an amazing display of death-defying aviation, Wedge zoomed in with the Millenium Falcon and destroyed the massive space station. He will forever be known as one of the galaxy's finest pilots! (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The toy shelves of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: Poor, poor Wedge Antilles can never get a break. Despite having a total of three action figures, a Titanium ship, an Action Fleet X-Wing, and more, he's pretty much guaranteed to always be a repaint or rehash. This particular release is, arguably, the best yet-- it takes the 1999 Wedge's head (which wasn't that great) and the 2004 Dutch Vander Gold Leader body which, again, wasn't that great. (It'll be reused for Biggs in 2007.) The figure has a fair amount of articulation, but he's a smidge tall, his head sculpt is ancient, and the helmet could be better. I won't get into the chin strap debate, but let's just say it could be better.

The wrinkles and folds in the costume aren't bad, but the joints in the hips and knees are a little stuff. The grey... stuff around his legs tends to be stiff as well, popping out of the hole in his backside if he tries to sit most of the time. This is a figure that, in its packaging, looks great. (After all, it's OTC packaging.) Outside, though, it's just another head swap, and this one really, honestly, shouldn't have been a $13 figure. Since Hasbro seems to make a new Wedge with old parts every few years, it's hard to advise anyone to go out and buy any one version-- an improved, but still sub-standard version will no doubt be in stores by 2011.

Collector's Notes: As a character that had actual lines in all three movies, it's a little surprising that none of his action figures have been very easy to get, fairly priced, or were made from a new mold. The first Wedge was the 1995 Hoth Pilot Luke with a new head-- and it looked rotten. The second Wedge was the 1998 Biggs body with a new head, which looked OK. And #1 came with a $30 carry case, and #2 was in an impossible-to-find (for a time) Rebel Pilots 3-pack that cost $20. Isn't it time Hasbro made an individually carded Wedge for its regular assortment, for less than $10?

Day 237: December 29, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 236: Clone Trooper (ARC Trooper)

CLONE TROOPER The Hunt for Grievous
The Saga Collection Toys "R" Us Exclusive
Item No.: No. 87116
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster and blaster rifle
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99
Availability: Summer 2006
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: These clone troopers are all members of The Muunilinst 10. They will folow their leader, Captain Fordo, to the end, obeying his every command and destroying anything or anyone that gets in his way. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: The tables of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: In the Hunt for General Grievous Battle Pack, you get three of these Clone Trooper figures, but they're actually ARC Trooper figures to most of us. It's the same as the 2003 figure with new paint and, technically, new guns. You get 3 figures with 2 of the old gun, and 2 of the normal Clone rifle. Basically, all that's new here is deco-- but it's good deco. Almost perfect, actually-- the white top of the rangefinder and the improved blue coloring is great, as is the gear on the arms. One paint app they missed, though, was the stripe that runs down to the visor on the helmet. This was wrong on the first release of the ARC Trooper, as well as the new green Clone Sarge just released. Since you're likely to buy this set for Fordo and the Heavy Gunner anyway, this is a nice addition to your collection-- especially as you're going to get 3 in the box.

Collector's Notes: As far as exclusive Clone figures go, this one has a few good marks for it. They made a whole bunch of 'em, and unlike Target's exclusive Clone figures, you get 3 for $25 (and some other figures) instead of being beaten out of $12.99 each. Snag it if you can see it! (Freak sightings of old exclusives happen, just keep your eyes open.) But take heed: the basically-confirmed plan for 2006 is for Hasbro to put out a comic book 2-pack with General Obi-Wan Kenobi and Alpha, an ARC Trooper, and rumor has it that it'll be different somehow. It might be crazy articulated, have a removable helmet, or be another one of these. This set should set you back $12 or less, so if you just want a single ARC trooper in your collection, it's probably safe to wait. (But if you want a toony one, get this one.)

Day 236: December 28, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 235: Heavy Gunner Clone Trooper

HEAVY GUNNER CLONE TROOPER The Hunt for Grievous
The Saga Collection Hunt for General Grievous Battle Pack
Item No.: No. 87116
Number: n/a
Includes: Heavy blaster cannon, removable kama
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99
Availability: Summer 2006
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: Captain Fordo orders his heavy gunner to take out the super battle droids that are threatening the remaining Jedi. Knowing that the torso is the weakest part of the super battle droid's construction, this heavy gunner takes careful aim and wastes little ammunition. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: The tables of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: Fans love head swaps. Fans hate head swaps. Make up your minds, will you? But seriously folks, any Clone is a good Clone, and the Heavy Gunner Clone Trooper is pretty great despite being made from old parts and having the wrong weapon. In the cartoon, he had a crazy quad-blaster thing that was absolutely huge and awesome. This one comes with a dinky little Heavy Blaster Cannon, which is actually a reuse of a G.I. Joe accessory. Still, it's cool enough-- just take a look at it.

The figure itself comes from a few other existing products. The head is the same as the AT-RT Driver. The body is the Clone Commander from Episode III. And the kama (skirt) is from Commander Bacara. Add some new paint, and presto-- new Clone! It's a great trooper, and despite having the wrong weapon, it's quite awesome. Hasbro, if you're reading: the demand is there. Rerelease it, but on a regular package and with the right gun and I'm sure you can sell another bazillion units. Toys based on the Clone Wars project are exceedingly popular with kids and adults, and I'm hoping that we continue to see many more in the coming year.

Collector's Notes: This figure has the dubious honor of being one of the toughest to get in 2006, despite being produced in fairly large numbers. (While we have no hard data, looking at numbers we've seen leaked from various forums and whatnot would put this in the ballpark of probably 60,000-75,000 or so-- keep in mind, I have no solid evidence of this.) Fans swept in and bought every last unit, and I myself picked up three (one to leave in the box as it's an unusually awesome box, one to open, and one to, well, maybe customize Fordo properly.) When released, I hit Toys "R" Us stores daily for about a month until I found mine, and I did see some on other, regular visits after the fact. But of all the Battle Packs in 2006, this was easily the most popular. Due to this popularity, the item is impossible to get on the secondary market for anywhere near its original price, so hopefully a reissue is in order.

Day 235: December 27, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 234: Qui-Gon Jinn

QUI-GON JINN Jedi Master
Episode I, Sith Lord Attack, Episode I Tin
Item No.: Asst. 84805 No. 84107
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, may include Jedi cloak and comlink
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99-$29.99
Availability: Spring 2000, Fall 2006
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: Having spent his life battling the forces of evil, Qui-Gon Jinn squares off against his most sinister enemy yet - Darth Maul - in an epic lightsaber duel inside the Theed power generator. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The tables of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: After many releases in 1999, Qui-Gon Jinn has seen very few figures since Hasbro went out of their way to purge the memory of Episode I from the shelves. This release was one of the last in Episode I packaging, and six years later, he returns to the stores. The figure has a mere 6 points of articulation (sub-standard for its day), but was one of the first figures to feature "soft goods," cloth parts that accent the figure and enhance it in special ways. In this case, the enhancement was that the figure can sit-- something most Qui-Gon figures cannot easily do. While a nice addition, it's ultimately an empty gesture because the figure's wacky arm pose prevents it from being able to fit in a lot of vehicles, and his hair is all crazy due to the action pose. It's a nice figure to look at, surely, but the decision to include a communications device with the most action-oriented figures of his day continues to confuse me.

For kids, this is a solid figure-- the CommLink (if included) is the only easily lost part. The lightsaber is fairly durable, and with only six points of articulation, the arms or wrists are very unlikely to just pop out of the sockets. So it's an excellent toy, and an excellent part of a diorama if you're setting up a duel with Darth Maul. It doesn't have a lot of articulation, so most collectors will poo-poo this one-- but it's well made and designed with kids and collectors in mind, so despite some limitations I simply cannot fault it.

Collector's Notes: So far, there have been three major releases of this figure. The first included the figure, a CommTech chip, and a comlink. The second came in a Battle Pack, and that one didn't have the CommTech chip. Number three was in the Episode I-themed tin set, which had only a lightsaber and a Jedi cloak. So to get "all the parts" you'll probably need to own at least two of these figures. As far as I can tell, no major changes were made in the figure itself-- just the accessories.

Day 234: December 26, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 233: Holiday Edition Darth Vader

DARTH VADER Holiday 2005 Edition
Original Trilogy Collection-style Holiday ShopStarWars.com Exclusive
Item No.: No. 85965
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, display base, cape, greeting card, removable right hand
Action Feature: Open Package for Buyer's Remorse
Retail: $14.99
Availability: Holiday 2005
Appearances: Nothing, ever

Bio: It is a festive time for the Empire. After a rough year of crushing Rebel uprisings, terrorizing the Outer Rim, and choking incompetent underlings, Darth Vader decides that even a Dark Lord of the Sith needs to give in to the fun side of the Force. Donning his most celebratory red armor, he leads his Imperial forces to the ice planet of Hoth for some much-deserved holiday festivities. Vader uses his lightsaber and mastery of the Force to create the most detailed ice sculptures in the Galactic Empire, from TIE fighters to star Destroyers. He even gives new meaning to "snowtroopers" by creating an army of troopers from snow. Thanks to Vader's expert planning, this year's Hoth Holiday Bash is primed to be the best the galaxy has ever known. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The toy shelves of Adam Pawlus. Specifically, the "figures of the damned" shelf that also holds Lava Reflection figures and Star Tours stuff like Jedi Mickey.

Commentary: Man does this figure suck. It also represents a problem I have with the fanbase (and myself), but let's start out with why the figure sucks. Darth Vader never, as far as I can tell, gets attacked by the cosmic hate plague as seen in the Return of Optimus Prime episodes of the original Transformers show. Yet, here's a figure that looks like just this situation happened. Marketing materials indicated that this figure ties in with a Lucasfilm holiday card. Well, the card bundled with this figure has a black Darth Vader making a snowman. The closest I've ever seen to a "festive" Vader was from a UK Marvel comic cover where Darth Vader has a Santa Hat and gloves, and that would make for a neat figure. This figure, however, is just a repaint of the Emperor's Wrath figure, but in red. Previously, the figure has also been repainted in all black, in black with some white to make snow, and was retooled into a new Emperor's Wrath figure-- so this mold is nothing new. The base is new, though, but hardly a selling point. Now, if it had that awesome Stormtrooper Snowman from the greeting card...

The paint is crappy-- it chips and feels like it was done in some bizarre, awkward aftermarket process because this thing feels like it'll fall apart. The articulation isn't anything special (eight points, whooptee-doo), and there's no decoration to speak of-- no lights, no lenses, nothing. It's red. That's it. If it were clear, it could at least pass for some sort of holographic thing. If it were clear blue, it could be a holograph and an ice sculpture. But no. It's just this metallic red plastic piece of junk that I, and by my estimates, 3,000-15,000 of you also probably got snookered too. Seeing as this came out about six months after the equally ridiculous Lava Reflection Darth Vader, it seems someone at Hasbro realized that Vader + paint = PROFIT.

I blame myself for buying this figure-- I passed on it at the club, but bought it on eBay (for slightly less) after it sold out (and I cannot BELIEVE it sold out) because, like so many of you, "it was the one figure I didn't have." Dammit. I also point blame to everybody else who bought it, because figures like this are what are the root of what most of the complaints I get. "Why does Hasbro make crappy repaints?" "Why do they keep making Darth Vaders?" Why? Because all of us keep buying them because collectively, we're all too stupid to say no too much of the time. (And yet, good exclusives like the Snowspeeder with Zev go on clearance. What's wrong with us?)

This is my least favorite figure in the entire line. This includes new figures, old figures, beefy sculpts, and figures that were pretty much entirely inaccurate to their source materials. This one is the worst, and it's really a shame the line got to a point last year where someone said "let's paint Vader red again, the fans eat this crap up."

Collector's Notes: This is the fourth release in the holiday series. The first was a Fan Club exclusive that ended up going to Wal-Mart because, as rumor had it, someone didn't have the ability to foot the bill. And that set had Santa C-3PO and Reindeer R2-D2, and was arguably the very best of all the holiday releases. Second was Santa Yoda, a real Fan Club exclusive, yet I saw one at a Toys "R" Us in LA in November of 2006. No, I'm not kidding. Number three is still available, and that was a pack of Holiday Jawas-- and yes, it was the third best of the series, and was another Fan Club exclusive that was defaulted upon, according to lore. It was sold through Entertainment Earth.

This year I got lots of complaints/demands/worries regarding the lack-of-a-2006-Holiday-Figure. I replied, usually, like this: "Aren't you glad after last year? That's one less sub-par release." Most fans were very upset with my dismissive attitude. I'm upset with our low demands of quality. The first set had significant remolding. The second was virtually an all-new figure. Number three had new arms, a new base, and was two figures. #4 was a figure we all bought four times over with red paint-- at this rate, a jolly green Ewok or Chewie as the Grinch didn't seem so farfetched, and let's face it, the last thing we need in Star Wars as a line are new excuses to not buy things. My standards are low-- I like pretty much everything, be it bad or good, because I do derive pleasure from toys. If it's a good toy, it might be fun to have at my desk. If it's a bad toy, I can complain about it for pages upon pages. (Obviously, not all of you have columns where you can just spout off, but if you have a chance I advise you to start one.) My point is this: we as fans don't know a good thing. Even when the good thing is an absence of a bad thing.

"Holiday"-themed releases are not a thing of the past, however, although the next almost-totally-confirmed release is a "Holiday Special" Boba Fett. This is expected to be a specially decorated version of an existing toy to look as the character did in the Star Wars: Droids episode The White Witch and the animated segment from the legendary Star Wars Holiday Special. If this one comes to pass, this is exactly the kind of thing we as collectors and fans should clamor for, but there is one slight downer-- this particular figure has absolutely no real tie-in with winter or the holidays of the season beyond it having been on TV around The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Oh, and on that note, MERRY CHRISTMAS. I'm counting my blessings, and near the top of the list (as far as the hobby goes) is that Hasbro opted not to make a holiday figure this year. After the red Darth Vader, let's just stick with non-Earthy-themed things, please.

To conclude this most foul holiday edition of Figure of the Day, I would like to add the token "some of my favorite figures are Fan Club exclusives." ShopStarWars/The Fan Club brought us the following in the USA over the years: Wuher, Cantina Band Member, Oola & Salacious Crumb, Death Star Droid, Hoth Leia, Pote Snitkin, AT-AT Driver, the Covert Ops Clone Trooper, Shadow Stormtroopers, Holographic Emperor Palpatine, Stormtrooper Troop Builder Packs, Holographic Leia, Baron Papanoida, Chi Eekway, Terr Taneel, and the aforementioned Santa Yoda. I may have forgotten a few as I was trying to cut this column short, but the point is this: Hasbro and the Fan Club brought us some wonderful (if pricey) items over the years, and something this cheap shouldn't be this expensive. On eBay, Red Vader goes for about its original retail price.

Day 233: December 25, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 232: Emperor Palpatine

EMPEROR PALPATINE changes to Darth Sidious
Revenge of the Sith Deluxe Action Figure
Item No.: Asst. 85182 No. 85432
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightning, lightsaber hand
Action Feature: Press lever to raise hands, switch heads, and activate lightning
Retail: $9.99
Availability: April 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Supreme Chancellor Palpatine is a powerful leader in the Republic. Now he reveals the frightening truth: he is the Sith Lord Darth Sidious, and his evil plans are about to destroy the Republic and the Jedi. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: The toy shelves of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: Due to the expanded role of Palpatine in the final prequel, Hasbro made a ton of toys based on Emperor Palpatine. There was a basic figure in a black robe, there was a Supreme Chancellor figure, there was this deluxe one, there was a basic saber-swinging one, and by and large kids didn't care. Some of these figures would be repackaged in the future, but this one wasn't-- actually, after initially being a weak seller, it disappeared in many markets and was replaced with other non-selling $10 figures. This one wasn't bad, but it was built around a basic action feature. Push lever, raise arms, switch heads, activate lights. The figure couldn't sit or be posed in any meaningful way, so what you see is what you get. The sculpting is a little below par for the line, as figures since 1998 have had breathtaking detail on their garments-- just take a look at Pote Snitkin if you don't believe me. This particular figure just didn't turn out well. The mechanism is neat, and it's kinda fun to play with, but after the first minute, you'll be ready to toss this one on your shelf.

Collector's Notes: A number of the $10 figures sold poorly in 2005, but kids didn't really like this one in particular. No plans are known to put it on the market again and anyone that pays more than $10 for one is a grade A sucker.

Day 232: December 24, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 231: Darth Vader (Final Jedi Duel)

DARTH VADER Final Jedi Duel
Power of the Force Cinema Scenes Collection
Item No.: Asst. 68650 No. 69783
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, Display Base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: 1998
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: Under the evil gaze of Emperor Palpatine, the lightsabers of two Jedi Knights - a father and son - clash furiously in a final duel between the light side and dark side of the Force. Slowly, the young Skywalker is lured closer to the rage of the dark side, and Palpatine sits confident of the Rebellion's defeat and the acquisition of a new emissary to fulfill his evil legacy! But the young Jedi's resistance appears to be growing... (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: The toy shelves of Adam Pawlus.

Commentary: It wasn't too hard to please fans with new, improved figures back in 1998. This Darth Vader was one of the first with the "skirt" or "kama" or whatever you want to call it, this inner chunk of robes was an added detail that very few previous toys and collectibles ever bothered to replicate. Today, fans take for granted a super-perfect true-to-the-prop replica of an item, what with their fancy Gentle Giant scanned busts and all, but in 1998 a figure like this-- which was still far from accurate-- was pretty exciting stuff. Even though he only had six points of articulation, and his skirt kept him from sitting, the figure had some exciting details for the first time. The chest armor had some gunmetal grey/silver highlights, and the sculpting and deco was crisper than on most previous versions of the figure. Today, the figure is just merely old, replaced but numerous, far better versions of the Sith Lord with better articulation, truer-to-the-movie sculpting, and even cloth capes. This figure was not treated well by time, but this is, in part, Hasbro's fault. The Final Jedi Duel Darth Vader was roughly the third Darth Vader figure in the modern line, and today, we're scratching decent double digits-- so last year's model gets dated pretty quick.

Collector's Notes: 1998 also saw the release of the Removable Helmet Darth Vader, which was a million times better. Still, the Final Jedi Duel Darth Vader would come back as a silver figure in 2002 (Toy Fair and Fan Club exclusive) as well as in 2005 as the now infamous Target exclusive Lava Reflection Darth Vader. The Final Jedi Duel set is pretty cheap, though, and is still worth getting for the Emperor and his throne and display base.

Day 231: December 23, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 230: Stormtrooper

STORMTROOPER with Blaster Damage
Power of the Force Collection
Item No.: Asst. 84185 No. 85209
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster rifle, gun rack, CommTech Chip
Action Feature: Dunk in cold water for "battle damage" blast mark on chest
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 1999
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Bail Organa, a senator from Alderaan, sees how the Republic is being ruined. When the situation becomes even more treacherous for loyal members of the Republic, he lends his support in the fight to save the galaxy. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves. You can barely make out the outline of the blast mark on the figure due to the temperature in the room.

Commentary: What a difference a few years makes. In 1995, fans lauded the then-new version of the classic armored trooper for its articulated neck and waist. In 1999, it was crap. Then, the Stormtrooper you see here would come out, be impossible to find, and cause fans to go mad with troop building envy as few fans saw this in the wild. (The mold would be reused for a slightly different Trooper in the future, but by the next time it was at retail attention spans cooled significantly.) The important thing to remember here is that in 1999, this was awesome. The figure had a holster for its gun-- it didn't work, but it was an important frequently missed detail. Faux ball-joints were placed at the neck and shoulders, and for the first time, a regular Stormtrooper was given knee joints. On top of all this, an entirely new sculpt was made, not based on the beefy design of 1995, making this the go-to sculpt for all new Sandtroopers and other related figures in the years to come. Fans loved it. It wasn't perfect, but damn, it was a really slick figure for its time.

Collector's Notes: Impossibly rare in 1999 and 2000, the figure would make a few returns to availability. The Fan Club offered up 4-packs of the figure with different weapons and no battle damage for about $20 a pack-- a great deal. In 2003, the figure would be recarded in the first-ever "Hall of Fame" assortment, also without battle damage. This same figure would return to stores in 2004 for the Original Trilogy Collection and would find itself repacked in two Battle Packs in 2005. The only release with Battle Damage, though, would be the original 1999 CommTech release. Upon the "Vintage" Stormtrooper's release in 2004, collectors immediately soured on this sculpt, although it continues to sell well when released to retail.

Day 230: December 22, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 229: Bail Organa

BAIL ORGANA Republic Senator
Revenge of the Sith Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 85174 No. 85288
Number: III-15
Includes: Blaster, cloak, display base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $5.25-$6.99
Availability: April 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Bail Organa, a senator from Alderaan, sees how the Republic is being ruined. When the situation becomes even more treacherous for loyal members of the Republic, he lends his support in the fight to save the galaxy. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: Most figures had a two-word selling point on the front of the packaging in 2005, like "Wookiee Rage" or "Jedi Knight." Bail Organa got saddled with "Republic Senator" which may as well have been "Intergalactic Dentist" or "The Figure You Didn't Ask For." Sure, he had a decent role in the movie, but after all the dust settles he's not really an action hero in this flick, and the droves of unsold Bail Organas at a lot of smaller stores to this very day attest to the fact that having a famous adopted daughter doesn't make you a good action figure.

The figure itself is a good one, though-- while the beard isn't quite as perfect as one might hope, the costume is represented well, there's a holster for his blaster, he has articulated knees, and that big poncho cloak can come off. There's a lot of subtle wrinkles in the costume, but the problem is that it's a boring costume. Ball joints or no, it's a guy in a grey toga with no nifty helmets or colorful laser swords to dress up the figure. It's possible this figure may have been more popular if he had his ship-- after all, is there anyone out there who doesn't want a nice Tantive IV? (Oh yeah, everybody but me, since nobody asks about it in the Hasbro Q&A or mentions it on forums ever.)

Collector's Notes: The figure was repackaged in 2005 as a Wal-Mart exclusive, this time packaged with a baby Princess Leia instead of his display base. It was a superior accessory, and the one most collectors would want to go after. This figure can be had quite cheaply if you can find it, so don't go paying a premium for him unless he has the baby.

Day 229: December 21, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 228: Zett Jukassa

ZETT JUKASSA Jedi Padawan
Revenge of the Sith Collection 2 & The Saga Collection Lucas Family Collector Set
Item No.: Asst. 85174 No. 85566
Number: III-52
Includes: Lightsaber, display base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $5.25-$6.99; $34.99
Availability: Summer 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: This ten-year old Padawan is one of the most promising students in the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. The young boy finds himself in the middle of a dark act of betrayal by a trusted member of the Jedi Order. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: Minor character lovers, and fans of cameos, here's one for you. Zett Jukassa was played in the movie by George Lucas' son, and he existed for no reason other than to get shot after killing a bunch of Clones in front of the Jedi Temple. With articulation at the usual places and then some, this multi-jointed wonder can stand around and... well, pose with his lightsaber. The deco is true to the movie, and the look of the figure is close-- he's a little pale, but otherwise looks fairly close to his photograph on the packaging. There aren't many minor human Jedi to get action figures, so this one is pretty special-- obviously, there's a reason he got made, and the figure is cool enough to warrant buying if such things interest you.

In the end he's just a human Jedi, but the backstory in the movie and from behind-the-scenes make this a nifty addition to any collection.

Collector's Notes: The figure was repackaged in 2006 in the Lucas Family Collector Set, but this time around it had no display base. Since the boxed set has 3 unique sculpts currently available nowhere else, the ShopStarWars.com exclusive gift set is probably the best way to get Zett since, well, you probably want the other figures like Blue George Lucas too.

Day 228: December 20, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 227: R2-D2 (Dagobah)

R2-D2 Luke Skywalker's X-wing Fighter
The Saga Collection Toys "R" Us Exclusive
Item No.: No. 32512
Number: n/a
Includes: X-wing, travel gear
Action Feature: Light-up eye port
Retail: $39.99
Availability: Summer 2002
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: Following the Battle of Hoth, Luke Skywalker journeys to the planet Dagobah to train with Jedi Master Yoda, who has lived in hiding since the fall of the Republic. Accompanied by R2-D2, Luke arrives at the uncharted swamp planet and begins difficult training, in which he tests himself in the Force and attempts to meet the challenging tasks assigned to him by the Jedi Master. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: There have been a few Dagobah-specific R2-D2 figures over the years, but this one was the first. Its weird, lawn clippings-looking "stains" aren't exactly great by today's standards, but the figure fit nicely in the socket of the X-wing with which he was sold, and he was the first-ever X-wing droid to be removable. (Vintage and POTF2 versions all had dedicated domes and were not fully realized, removable figures.) This R2-D2 is technically nothing special, as its only real action feature is a light-up eye port, and we've had those since 1995. This is not a figure you'll want to track down for itself, as better versions of the droid have since been released-- but he isn't bad, and will likely be the only Dagobah-specific R2-D2 with a chrome dome.

Collector's Notes: This figure is a repaint of Episode I's R2-B1. Both figures are articulated at the dome and "shoulders" and really can't do much but sit there and look cute. Despite a newer, better Dagobah X-wing having been released in 2006, the 2002 model still commands a decent price and this figure will likely not come to you cheaply. In 2004, an electronic Dagobah R2-D2 was sold in the Original Trilogy Collection and is arguably one of the best overall. In 2007, a new version will be released based on the mold used to create the Jabba's Sail Barge R2-D2, which itself was based on R2-Q5.

Day 227: December 19, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 226: Jar Jar Binks (Tatooine)

JAR JAR BINKS Tatooine
Power of the Jedi Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 84455 No. 84257
Number: n/a
Includes: Folded up Pit Droid, Force File
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Summer 2001
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: Rescued by Qui-Gon Jinn from the Trade Federation forces, Jar Jar leaves Naboo and joins the Jedi on a mission to deliver Queen Amidala to Coruscant. An emergency detour to Tatooine leads them to Watto's junk shop. There, Jar Jar's insatiable curiosity gets him into trouble when he actually activates an excitable pit droid! (Taken from the figure's Force File.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: Poor Jar Jar Binks, always the punchline, but never funny. (Well, maybe on that one Colbert Report episode.) From 2001, this was the last Jar Jar figure based on Episode I, and it was the best overall. With ball-jointed shoulders and a tongue sticking out, the figure could express contempt as only he could-- and it really does show off the figure's personality quite well. After all, Jar Jar is childish, and the pose represents this quite well. The arm textures and deco are on par with other versions of Jar Jar from the film, so there's really nothing to write home about here aside from the fact that this seems to be the only Jar Jar figure that really captures the alien's personality-- he's goofy, not serious, awkward, not precise, and most important of all... he's a spaz. He shouldn't have a giant staff, a cannon, or anything sharp. As far as Jar Jar figures go, this is an easy favorite-- you're going to want at least one of this Gungan menace in your collection, so it may as well be this one. Besides, the bonus tiny collapsed Pit Droid is worth getting even if you hate Jar Jar.

Oh, and a warning-- the tonuge? Not removable. What you see is what you get, so take care not to tear it off.

Collector's Notes: Hasbro made a deluxe Jar Jar with a cannon, a regular one, a swimming one, and some others-- but this one is best. The real draw is the droid accessory, but the figure's nifty appearance and giant tongue make it a distinctive, stand-out figure in the line and part of what made the entire Power of the Jedi range so fun and unique. Today, the figure is basically worthless-- five dollars or less on eBay. At least he's affordable! As the last Episode I-based Jar Jar figure, you might ask if it's worth doing another one. I would say there's potential to do one with better articulation and multiple heads so you can change his expression. Jar Jar has never been made with a big goofy smile, and as it's somewhat telling of his character, I would very much like to see one last really good Jar Jar figure. And that'd be the last one.

Day 226: December 18, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 225: Jek Porkins

JEK PORKINS XL-wing Pilot
Power of the Jedi Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 84455 No. 84457
Number: n/a
Includes: Helmet, Force File
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 2000
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Once a free trader on Bestine IV, Jek joined the Rebel Alliance after his homeworld was conquered by the Empire. He quickly became known as one of the Alliance's most skilled pilots. When he attacked the Death Star during the Battle of Yavin, his comm-unit designation was Red Six. (Taken from the figure's Force File.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: For years, fans joked about getting a toy of Jek Porkins. In ToyFare Magazine, there were countless jokes about "hahah Porkins is fat pass the butter!!!" These reflected the opinion of fans online as well-- this was a real novelty figure, a "wouldn't-it-be-funny-if" release and the Power of the Jedi series managed to introduce a few figures just like that. Porkins is, technically, a new sculpt with six points of articulation. Fans with a good eye might take a good close look and realize that Jek Porkins' girth is based on the Biggs Darklighter sculpt from 1998, albeit heavily modified. (Did I mention that it's really, really easy to accidentally make size jokes? Well, it's not intentional.) The character had little to do in the films, but was memorable because he looked a lot different than the other pilots, and had the nickname "Piggy" in some of the Expanded Universe materials.

The suit has a few creases, the figure can, well, sit. He can't fit in all X-wing vehicles due to his size, but the figure is a neat one to add to your collection because it is such an obscure character, and even though his beard isn't as nice and trim as in the movie, it's the only Porkins you'll probably ever see in this scale. (There's an Action Fleet one, too.) As such, you should buy this one.

Collector's Notes: With little real fan interest now that the joke is over, Jek Porkins has little chance of a rerelease. Recent items on eBay sold for under $4 on the package, so if you want one shipped to your door for $10 or less, you shouldn't have too much trouble getting this one. A new version would be nice because the figure doesn't look as good as he could, but we're just not hopeful.

Day 225: December 17, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 224: Imperial Officer

IMPERIAL OFFICER Head #1 of 3
Power of the Jedi Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 84455 No. 84659
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster pistol, Force File
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 2001
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: The Imperial Officers are cunning, calculating and ruthless. They have survived a grueling training program to earn their rank. Whether he is giving commands on the bridge of a Star Destroyer or leading a garrison of stormtroopers, the Imperial officer is in complete control and rules with an iron fist. Failure means death, as many found out in the service of Darth Vader. (Taken from the figure's Force File.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves. The gloves are not blue, but gosh darn it, the flash makes it look that way.

Commentary: There was a time when "super articulated" wasn't even thinkable, and figures like the Imperial Officer were considered good just for being nicely articulated. One of the better figures of its day, this figure boasts 10 points of articulation, which is just about what you'd want in a figure like this. With lots of wrinkles, a fairly generic face, and about all the details you would want, the Imperial Officer is the kind of figure you'll need piloting your Shuttles, working on your Death Stars, or bossing around lazy Stormtroopers. There are no holsters for the guns, and no real action feature to speak of, but dammit, Vader's gotta choke someone. Why not this guy? He's not... well, "special." But he's very cool and a must-buy figure so you can add him to your Empire of plastic. If you don't have a little army, don't care about the Empire, and are looking to save money, this is a fairly generic figure you don't need. But if you don't buy Imperial figures, you're probably not reading the right column for someone with your... unique taste.

Collector's Notes: In 2001, the Power of the Jedi version (reviewed here) came out and had but one head, but Hasbro indicated it had two variant heads ready to go. These would arrive on blue Saga packaging in very early 2003 as part of the end of the 2002 line (confusing, yes.) The new heads were a blonde, and another head with brown hair that is similar (but different) to this one. All three are slated to be rereleased in 2007 on new packaging with coins, so if you haven't bought them yet, waiting might be a good idea.

Day 224: December 16, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 223: R2-Q2

R2-Q2 Astromech Droids Series #1
Saga Collection Entertainment Earth Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 87055 No. 87056
Number: n/a
Includes: n/a
Action Feature: Twist dome for retractable third leg
Retail: $39.99
Availability: January 2006
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Serves Biggs Darklighter during the Battle of Yavin and may be a double agent. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' 2006 Original Trilogy shelves.

Commentary: Of the many Astromech droids that were given life in 2006, this was one of the ones I enjoyed seeing the most. (And not just because I got to say "I want that one.") R2-Q2 was one of two droids I just had to get made as toys, and thankfully, I had the chance. (The other being R2-X2.) This particular droid is fun because, well, it was initially seeming like there were either two R2-Q2s or, like I wrote in the exclusive proposal, he's a spy/double agent. (And now it's on the packaging.) You can see droids that look like this figure on the Blockade Runner at the beginning of Star Wars and another, very similar one in Biggs' droid socket at the end of the film. I found a couple of very minor changes between their domes, but given the accuracy of some other Astromech figures, this would fall into an accuracy "margin of error" that I think most fans would consider acceptable and not requiring a second figure.

The figure itself is, like most Astromechs, a repaint. The figure is based on R4-G9, but is totally repainted in a dark grey and what can be best called very Oreo-like colors. With lights, highlights, panels, and other markings all over, this may be one of the most ornate droids in the entire line, and he doesn't even have battle damage. It may not have every little panel exactly like the film, but it's quite good and quite ornate.

Collector's Notes: At this time, this figure is still available from Entertainment Earth. Those uninterested in buying the 5-pack would be well-served to go to eBay, as fans break up the set and sell the figure for a few dollars. I love this figure. I think you should get one, or two. Easily one of the best looking Astromech droids in the whole line. This droid is packaged with R3-T2, R2-C4, R4-A22, and R3-T6.

Day 223: December 15, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 222: Boba Fett

BOBA FETT with Sawed-Off Blaster Rifle and Jet Pack
The Power of the Force Collections 1, 3
Item No.: Asst. 69570 No. 69582
Number: n/a
Includes: Removable jetpack and cape, blaster; some included a Freeze Frame action slide
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $4.99
Availability: December 1995
Appearances: Return of the Jedi (technically)

Bio: The most notorious and fearsome bounty hunter in the galaxy is also the most mysterious. Many legends and stories have arisen over the years, but few facts are known of the man called Boba Fett, or his link to Han Solo's past. Since the Clone Wars, Fett has worked as a mercenary, a soldier, a personal guard, an assassin, and most frequently, as the most expensive bounty hunter in the known systems. (It goes on for like another eight pages. Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's toy shelves.

Commentary: The rumors started in early 1995, and by December, Kenner gave the world the first new Boba Fett action figure in years. While it looks hokey today, let me tell you, it was something special. Painted battle-damage markings, a sculpted cape, a rangefinder that stood up, sculpted Wookiee scalps, these were all things we've never seen on a 3 3/4-inch figure of Boba Fett before. So sure, he was beefy, sure, his torso was too big, and sure, he was based mostly off of the "Proto Fett" designed armor from 1978 or so, but dammit, we loved it. Fans went berserk just trying to find the figure, and when fans started finding out about all the variations, well, you don't need to have me tell you it was chaos. The little squabbles about "wah, I can't find a Scorch" were NOTHING compared to the lunacy that surrounded these figures back in 1995, when everybody and their brother (ESPECIALLY non-fans) would scoop up everything just to sell it back to fans for a profit.

So how does the figure hold up? The once-great figure was awesome for its time, but has since been eclipsed a few times over with newer, better Bobas. Still, he has six points of articulation, he could fit perfectly into the Boba Fett's Slave I vehicle from 1996, and had a superior "T"-shaped slot on his rocket pack (with a "T" on his back) which holds the jetpack in place far better than any recent figure. I'll repeat that so Hasbro can see it: this figure's means of wearing his jetpack is far superior to everything else that has been tried since. It's not like Commander Cody, where when you pick him up, his wee little backpack falls right off and then you can't remember which way is up and which way is down. Nosiree, Boba Fett was designed as a toy, and a darned good one at that. I can't say that you should get one due to newer figures being largely because the sculpt doesn't hold up 10 years later (well, 11 years now) but as a toy? It's totally cool.

Collector's Notes: This is the figure that basically drove variations for several years. The figure has at least three different hand configurations as far as paint goes: a black dot on each, a split circle on each, or one of each. And there's unpainted errors, too. The figure's hand has been remolded over time, with initial releases of the right hand having the fingers molded to the thumbs (like most Transformers), but the fingers were split apart for later releases to allow the easier gripping of accessories. There were also numerous packaging variants, from correcting typos to a green cardback to changing the collection to the sticker and the Freeze Frame, and so on. And with so many errors in there too, well, my advice to you: ignore the variants. Unless you want to make a hobby solely out of collecting every minor change on this one figure, and before you laugh, you'd be surprised how many people did exactly that from 1995-1998.

Day 222: December 14, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 221: Snowtrooper

SNOWTROOPER Battle of Hoth
The 30th Anniversary Collection Tins
Item No.: Asst. 87154 No. 87204
Number: 5 of 6
Includes: Removable helmet, blaster
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99-$32.99
Availability: Fall 2006
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: Emerging like invisible ghosts from the tundra, few sights chill the hearts of Rebel soldiers like a charging battalion of Imperial Snowtroopers. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's coffee table.

Commentary: Since its first release in 2003, the Snowtrooper mold used as the base for this figure has had a lot of changes. Let's stick to the matter at hand, though: this figure is good. Not perfect, but good. The 2002 release had more gear, but this one has a removable helmet and is the first-ever Snowtrooper figure to have such a feature. The face underneath has a scar unique to this figure, and due to how Hasbro sculpted the head, this one is not swappable with the Tin Series Sandtrooper. (Boo, I say.) The figure is painted differently from other releases of this mold, namely on the gloves. A few small details were changed here and there, so if you're making a squad of blizzard troopers and want them all a little different, this is a figure worth buying.

Of course, it isn't perfect. Hasbro went through the trouble to retool part of the body, but didn't bother to remove the rank marker on the armor. (A pity, as all "new" Snowtrooper figures that use this body since 2003 have had this ranking.) The figure has seven points of articulation-- the standard six, plus an ankle. This was originally done to better interact with a tripod laser cannon, but since it wasn't included in this set, it really doesn't matter. An articulated ankle is just a nice extra. The ball-jointed head is especially nice, but seeing the figure without its helmet is, to say the least, very jarring. The Scout Trooper, you can imagine. The Stormtroopers, you've basically seen-- sure, it was Han or Luke under the helmet, but you knew what it'd look like. There's something very freaky about seeing a Snowtrooper with its head off. I'm sure toddlers have the same reaction when they see Mickey Mouse or some such take his head off at a theme park. It's just weird. Cool, a welcome change, yes. But weird.

Collector's Notes: This is a figure you probably own with a new head and hat. There's some new paint, and it comes in a very expensive set with three other figures you may already own, also with new paint. This is really the bad thing here, because it's very hard to justify a new figure for $30. $20, maybe. $10, sure. But $30? It's excessive. I enjoy having this figure in my collection and the removable Snowtrooper mask was designed so well, you might not even realize it's meant to come off at first. It's Hasbro's finest removable helmet figure to date, easily. It's just... weird. (Oh, and while the holster works fairly well, my sample of the figure has a hand that doesn't like to grip the weapon, hence its appearing holstered in the photo.)

This mold was previously used to make a Snowtrooper in 2003. In 2004, the figure was slightly redecorated and shipped in OTC packaging, and shipped again in a Battle Pack in 2005. In 2006, the figure's torso, waistcoat, and head were reused to make a new "basic" Snowtrooper using the 1997 figure's arms and legs. And finally, this figure that I just reviewed came out in 2006, based on the original figure's sculpt, but with a new head. The 2006 Tin release is arguably the second-most fun, after the 2003/2004 one with the firing giant cannon.

Day 221: December 13, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 220: Biker Scout (Scout Trooper)

BIKER SCOUT Return of the Jedi
The Saga Collection Vintage Assortment
Item No.: Asst. 87129 No. 87066
Number: n/a
Includes: Scout pistol
Action Feature: Holster holds pistol securely
Retail: $9.99-$12.99
Availability: Spring 2006
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: A scout trooper was an Imperial stormtrooper that had been specially trained for scouting and reconnaissance. (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam's coffee table.

Commentary: Reactions to the 2004 "Vintage" figures were mostly positive, but in 2006, fans were a little less mirthful. The Biker Scout (or Scout Trooper to non-vintage people) was the best received, and early photos made him look a little chunky. Due to the amount of articulation, which allows for a little more subtlety in the poses, the figure is loaded with personality. You can make him look confused, curious, and downright mean depending on how you position him and his 14 points of articulation. The sculpt refines the previous Power of the Jedi figure to a great extent, adding new details right in the plastic, which are fleshed out with a new level of paint decoration. The "cloth" midsection was colored in an off-white color, setting it apart from the hard plastic armor bits. (Of course on the toy, it's all plastic.) This may be the best new sculpt of 2006 according to most fans, because it seems after years of questionable Scouts (or none at all), Hasbro finally nailed it.

Collector's Notes: In Spring 2006, Hasbro shipped this figure on a retro-Return of the Jedi cardback. In the Fall of 2006, the same basic figure shipped as part of a gift set in a tin, but had a resculpted head with a flip-up helmet. Both are quite popular. Fans have been demanding more of this figure, and even the frighteningly high price point of $10-$13 wasn't enough to keep army builders away-- and fans still want more!

More versions of the Scout exist in the modern line. In 1996, one was packaged with a Speeder Bike, and this one had articulated knees, a unique neck joint, and a strange pose. In 2000, one was made for Power of the Jedi, and three major versions exist: one is clean, and one is battle-damaged. The third was sold in 2002 as a Target Exclusive Accessory Pack, and you can tell this one because it's quite literally ass-backwards-- a factory error resulted in the lower torso piece being assembled incorrectly. This same sculpt was resculpted to have a flip-up helmet and was sold with the AT-AT in 2006. And finally, another version was released as a "Battlefront Exclusive" with a unique rifle, but as the gun is available elsewhere, we don't consider it a truly different figure. So if you want one of every major Scout Trooper release in the modern line, you'll need at least 7, 8 if you count Battlefront.

Day 220: December 12, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 219: Luke Skywalker (Hoth)

LUKE SKYWALKER Battle of Hoth
The 30th Anniversary Collection Tins
Item No.: Asst. 87154 No. 87204
Number: 5 of 6
Includes: Lightsaber, goggles, articulated scarf
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99-$32.99
Availability: Fall 2006
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: Though he lacks little formal training in the Force, Luke's natural talent keeps him alive in the brutally cold wilds of Hoth. His strength helps him recuperate quickly enough to lead the snowspeeder counterattack against the oncoming strength of the Empire. (Taken from the figure's cardback. Yes, it really says "lacks little formal training.")

Image: Adam's coffee table.

Commentary: Initially, fans said "oh, a rehash of the 2004 figure." Time went by, and they said "oh, this has new snow and no scar." It turns out Hasbro really did a lot more work than just that on this new Luke Skywalker, as the uniform saw some colorful changes. Before, the pants and shoulders were more of a tan color. This picture shows them to be grey on the new release. So which is correct? Well, this new Tins release is closer in color to Gentle Giant's Bust-Ups micro bust model kit, and seems to be closer to some of the photography. WIth lighting as it is, sometimes the tan looks a lot like the grey, and it's hard to tell which, if either, is right.

So, how about the figure? Luke's good, but not great. The sculpted scar is still visible, and the goggle accessory is pretty lame out of context-- he can carry them, but not wear them. They're also too big for his face and head. The lightsaber is incorrect, as the actual handle part is Darth Vader's-- the 2004 Luke release had one that was unquestionably Luke's, the black "cap" where the blade comes out is the telling sign that what you really have is likely the Dark Lord of the Sith's weapon. The figure has a costume loaded with texture, and the quasi-ball-joints at the neck and shoulders really help the figure's overall fun factor. Unfortunately, the figure was designed for a specific purpose and out of that context, he's a little funky. In 2004, this figure had an ice base that connected to an ice base with a Wampa figure, and Luke could hang upside-down as he waited to be eaten. (It's really awesome.) Out of this play pattern, the figure just seems to be a good, but oddly articulated, version of Commander Skywalker from Hoth. There's nothing wrong with the sculpt in and of itself, but I have little doubt fans would have rather had a super-articulated one that could ride a Tauntaun, walk around a Rebel base, or hang upside-down.

Collector's Notes: This is the second release of this mold, the first being in the 2004 Saga line. This one is arguably more authentic, and the bloody scar isn't quite the eyesore as it was on the original. It's still a great figure either way. Since there has been absolutely zero discussion over "tan pants vs. grey pants" on Hoth Luke over the years, which one is more correct is pretty much inconsequential. If you like the idea of a Wampa Cave set-up, the first release is the one to get. If you want to get the cool Snowtrooper with the removable helmet, well, this release is the one you'll want. And if you're like me, you just buy both and let that be that.

Day 219: December 11, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 218: R5-D4

R5-D4 Escape from Mos Eisley
The Saga Collection
Item No.: Asst. 85770 No. 86780
Number: n/a
Includes: Display base, removable third leg, removable antenna
Action Feature: Rotate dome for "bad motivator" to pop out
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Summer 2006
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Just as Owen Lars purchases this battle-worn astromech droid, the droid's motivator blows a fuse. Disgruntled and dissatisfied, Owen asks for another R2 unit and selects R2-D2 after C-3PO recommends his services. Little does Owen know that his seemingly simple droid selection will turn out to determine the fate of the galaxy... (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's coffee table.

Commentary: For fans of the movie, he is "the red one." To some of the comic fans out there, he's "Skippy, the Jedi Droid." To most of you, he's R5-D4, the second-ever Astromech to see a toy back in 1979, and the only Astromech droid that wasn't R2-D2 until 1999. In 1996, Hasbro (then Kenner) made a weird rocket-firing version of this droid with shoulder cannons, and most fans bought it-- but weren't sure why. The demand still existed for a new version of the droid, and 10 years later, Hasbro delivered-- and he's selling very well in most markets.

Based on the 2004 Vintage Original Trilogy Collection R2-D2 sculpt, R5-D4 glues down the tool panel and adds a retooled head. When his head turns, his motivator pops out. It's pretty simple, but a fun play feature and probably the only movie-based one this figure should have. The size is right, the deco is wonderful, and the dirt and grit look stunning on this figure. This is the perfect R5-D4, and I can say that with very little doubt that Hasbro will never make a better one until the line gets yet another reboot in, let's say, 30 years.

Collector's Notes: This droid was very popular and tended to sell quickly, although it's not impossible to find one. If you want one, you best go out and get one now. A black repaint, R5-J2, hit stores last week.

Day 218: December 10, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 217: Obi-Wan Kenobi (Lava Reflection)

OBI-WAN KENOBI Lava Reflection
Revenge of the Sith Target Exclusive
Item No.: No. 85923
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber hand, display base
Action Feature: Squeeze legs for slashing action
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Fall 2005
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Obi-Wan Kenobi obeyed his Jedi Master's dying wish and trained Anakin Skywalker in the ways of the Force. Now he is pitted against his former Padawan in a lightsaber duel of epic proportions! (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's toy shelves.

Commentary: In the Spring of 2005, Target had tremendous success with a direct-mail campaign advertising the first-ever exclusive Lava Reflection action figure with Darth Vader. They decided to try it again in the Fall, without the campaign, and the resulting figures of Darth Vader (Anakin, really) and Obi-Wan Kenobi proved a little baffling. Why do these things cost $13? Why don't they have as many accessories as the non-lava versions? We never really got an answer, but the fan interest in $12.99 figures has dropped-- a fourth "flame-covered" figure, General Grievous, would come out in 2006 and prove fans really aren't in the mood for this kind of pricing.

Obi-Wan offers nothing new but a display base (previously packaged with the Mustafarian figure) and new deco, and the deco is kind of nasty. Lots of orange, red, and dirty colors make it look like the Jedi General has just gone through Hell during his duel with his former friend, and as such, it works-- for what it is, it's a very nice concept, but for how it was sold, not so much. The sculpt is good, but a better Obi-Wan Kenobi sculpt was introduced around the same time and was sold as a "pilot" figure for about five bucks. With Obi-Wan (Lava Reflection), what you see is basically what you get. The weapon is not removable from his hand, but the hand with the weapon is removable from the figure.

Collector's Notes: When this came out in 2005, I bought it on the spot at full price. It stayed in the package because I really didn't feel like cracking it open until I got a second one, at the time not yet knowing how rare (or common) it would be. I didn't get the one you see in the picture until November of 2006, when I stumbled in a Target in LA that I hit on a regular basis and saw it for about $1.60. It just goes to prove that if you don't like the price of something, waiting just might pay off.

Day 217: December 9, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 216: Clone Trooper (Evolutions)

CLONE TROOPER The Clone Wars
Revenge of the Sith Evolutions
Item No.: Asst. 85553 No. 87050
Number: n/a
Includes: Clone Helmet, Pilot Helmet, Blaster
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99
Availability: Fall 2005
Appearances: Attack of the Clones through Clone Wars

Bio: The evolution of the galaxy's most powerful army is captured in these figures! The clone troopers fight for the Republic, to try and save the galaxy from chaos. But secret plans change their loyalties, and they help the evil forces of the Sith to take control! No longer known as clone troopers, they are now stormtroopers, the loyal soldiers of the Emperor, enforcing his harsh will throughout the galaxy! (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam's toy shelves. Pilot helmet not shown.

Commentary: In late 2003, Hasbro introduced what was considered to be the definitive Clone Trooper action figure. It was repainted as an exclusive, and considered the top-- until this version came out in 2005, and now there's some debate. This version has slightly refined sculpting and a removable helmet, but no waist articulation. The figure also has some particularly ornate battle damage, and is not as prone to yellowing so far. (Which means it's good.) So, are 13 points of articulation enough? Possibly. Since Clone fans tend to build armies, this is automatically worth adding to your collection just for the sake of variety, but there's more to it. It has a bonus Clone Pilot helmet, so the figure can be a makeshift pilot or a normal Trooper. The dirt/damage deco is very impressive as long as you don't get too close-- you can see the printing patterns if you squint. It's a good figure, and arguably one of the best Clone figures ever... but does the removable helmet matter to you? Or the waist joint? These are things to consider before tracking this down.

Collector's Notes: This is the second release of this mold. The first was in the first Clone Trooper Evolutions pack, and was yellow (a commander). The third release was profiled earlier in this column, and was a blue redeco sold in the 30th Anniversary Tins gift set collection. This white Clone has the strongest overall deco and is also the most generic, making it well worth owning. Since it'll probably cost you $20-$30, it isn't all that bad. The set also includes an Episode III Clone (in "ARC Trooper" deco, according to Hasbro) that can be reconfigured to also be a Coruscant Trooper. The third entry in this Evolutions set was an ultra-filthy Sandtrooper, who can be a Sandtrooper-- or if you have other Troopers, you can switch out the pauldrons and make a custom squad with a little more variety. (I recommend this.)

Day 216: December 8, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 215: C-3PO (Endor)

C-3PO with Ewok throne
The Saga Collection
Item No.: Asst. 85770 No. 85940
Number: 042
Includes: Endor throne, display base
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Summer 2006
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: No one was more surprised than C-3PO by the sudden manifestation of godlike powers brought on by the golden droid's frustration at being unable to convince the Ewoks to free his friends. Then his sudden short, Force-induced flight around the village drove the superstitious Ewoks into a panic. After that, he was able to make his lack of interest in a delicious meal made up of Han, Luke, and Chewbacca fully understood. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's coffee table. Throne not shown. Escape Pod not included with this particular C-3PO.

Commentary: For years, fans have had one big request for C-3PO, and that was knee joints. In 2006, Hasbro made good by taking the basic figure from 2005 and adding some features to make it just a little bit better. On my open sample, the figure can sit fairly well-- although one of the legs doesn't move forward as much as the other, making it hard to sit well. Still, if you love articulation, this is the best C-3PO to date. The only thing this droid could possibly have is an extra arm joint or two, but it doesn't really need that sort of thing for this particular scenario. The Ewok throne is a nice touch, as many of us owned the original one with our Ewok Village playset. It's nice to have again, but the old one was (as toys go) a little more stable and overall, felt less likely to bend in some screwball shape. Also, there really is no easy way for Ewoks to carry this throne, partially because of the rubbery plastic, but also due to the lack of Ewoks on the market today. While the figure is neat due to his knees and wonderful expression, the throne itself fails as a toy because there really is no way for it to be carried around. And that's the point of this particular accessory, really. Without the ability to carry it around, the extra poles are worthless and just add to the cost of what may well be one of the more expensive figures in the assortment.

Collector's Notes: There are some variants out there, most of which involve the droid's knees-- the non-metalized part on the right leg may also be found in gray/silver. The figure itself is still fairly common, but don't expect to be tripping over them. It's a good figure as C-3POs go, but don't expect to get too much out of the throne as far as a plaything goes. Accessory aside, this C-3PO figure is one of the strongest in the entire line and unless Hasbro makes something better, this is going to be my default C-3PO for all Trilogy-based needs. It's cool.

Day 215: December 7, 2006