Figure of the Day: Day 413: Battle Droids

BATTLE DROIDS Kashyyyk Conquest
The Saga Collection
Item No.: Asst. 85770 No. 87340
Number: 062
Includes: Blaster, second figure, display tand
Action Feature: Remove limbs and reassemble!
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 2006
Appearances: n/a

Bio: The Separatists send in waves of battle droids in their attempt to conquer the strategically important world of Kashyyyk. The droids are painted with special markings to help them blend into the dense jungle foliage. The fierce Wookiee warriors, joined by the formidable Yoda, resist the droid onslaught with all their might. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' TV tray, standing next to OOM-9.

Commentary: I can't say enough good things about a figure that gives me value, like these Battle Droids. While they are limited to five points of articulation each, they are quite fun and frankly, two figures for the price of one is always a good thing. Each figure is based on the 2002 Battle Droid from the deluxe C-3PO assembly line set, and the reason we're likely seeing this mold again here (and in Saga Legends) is because it's available and not being used. The figure's backpack, heads, arms, and legs are completely removable meaning you can swap them with other Battle Droids made from this mold, which could result in some nifty junkyard-esque creations. The sculpt is good, and certainly more accurate to the movie than the Episode I-era molds, but the articulation isn't there. So it's a trade-off. If you like non-movie figures, or are looking for something different, this is a set I can't help but like. And I bought extras because if you can build an army for a pretty decent price, well, why not?

Collector's Notes: This release was somewhat common in many markets, and then dried up-- odds are army builders or parents looking for a deal snapped these sets up in a hurry. You can still find them around, but not easily in most towns. One of the great things about this set is now you can finally have a droid that a Wookiee can tear its arms out.

Day 413: June 23, 2007