Figure of the Day: Day 1,246: Qui-Gon Jinn

QUI-GON JINN Jedi Master
Saga Collection 1
Item No.: Asst. 84861 No. 84801
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #0232
Includes: Lightsaber, blast-effect
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $4.99
Availability: May 2002
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: As the desperate final battle against the Trade Federation rages on, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi clash against Darth Maul in the Theed power generator area on Naboo. As they reach the central core, Obi-Wan gets trapped behind a wall of raw energy and Qui-Gon continues the battle by himself, where it proves to be a day of destiny for all involved. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's home.

Commentary: While Hasbro basically abandoned individually-carded Phantom Menace Anakin and Obi-Wan figures around 2001, they brought out a new Qui-Gon Jinn in 2002 after the Episode I run was over and done with. Adopting the then-new style for basic figures, this one is essentially a pre-posed statuesque little guy, posed perfectly for duels and battling Battle Droids. For a while, it was considered to be the best version of the character but since we've seen a better articulated version, you might just settle for it being the best looking release. With the dark brown Jedi robes, decent head sculpt, and perfectly acceptable deco, this is probably the version of Qui-Gon you'll want for your diorama or display needs. He isn't overly lanky, and while the head could be painted a little bit better, fact is you probably won't be looking at his face so much as the lightsaber and its deflecting of a laser bolt. As a carded figure, or a desk display, this is a great figure. Sure, he can't sit for squat, but at $5 in 2002 he was certainly a crowd-pleaser.

Collector's Notes: Neither rare nor desired, you can pick this one up on the cheap. And if you can, I think you'll like it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,246: March 24, 2010