Figure of the Day: Day 1,025: Dagobah Luke Skywalker

LUKE SKYWALKER in Dagobah Fatigues
Power of the Force Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 69570 No. 69588
Manufacturer: Kenner
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, pistol
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $4.99
Availability: March 1996
Appearances: The Empire Strikes Back

Bio: Galactic history is full of heroic Jedi Knights, protectors of peace and users of the Force. Perhaps none were as influential as Luke Skywalker, a young Tatooine farmboy who was heir to a legacy of dark and light. (There's a lot more, but eh, that's good. Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's back yard. Yoda, backpack sold separately.

Commentary: This figure is two firsts in the modern line. Not only was it the first-ever Dagobah-specific Luke Skywalker action figure, but it was also one of the first figures Hasbro (then using the Kenner banner) overproduced and, eventually, started to be taken back. That isn't to say it's a bad figure, it's just that when faced with the third modern Luke figure, fans decided they'd rather buy Yoda or another character. This figure isn't half bad, actually, but the 2004 version is way, way better. So even though I haven't said anything about it yet, I can tell you right now you don't need the 1996 version.

Still, it was a pretty decent figure-- it could stand on its own, Yoda could ride around on his back, and the figure was about as good as the other toys available at the time. Which is to say, you got the token six points of articulation, adequate deco, and a head sculpt that really didn't stand the test of time. Luke's a solid toy, his arms won't pop out, he can sit, and he looks perfectly adequate. It's just that, as you can see in the picture, this is a horribly dated toy. The detail on the boots is admirable, the sculpting on the shirt is pretty good, but sadly, a lot of those early figures didn't do much to make you want them once a better version came out. And that 2004 release was extremely cool.

Collector's Notes: The figure shipped in early 1996 and stuck around a while-- it was never repackaged on a green cardback like many other figures from the first years of the line. It's quite common, I wouldn't suggest paying more than $2 for it if you decide you need one.

Day 1,025: May 19, 2009