Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,507: Nikto Guard

NIKTO GUARD Puko Naga
The Clone Wars Toys "R" Us Exclusive
Item No.: No. 21090
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, rifle, stand, holster bag, card, die, hat
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: Gift with purchase or $9.99
Availability: Fall 2010
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: Puko Naga is a Nikto guard in Jabba the Hutt's palace. With his fellow guards, he protects the crime lord from his many victims and disgruntled associates. Thousands of years ago, the Nikto swore their allegiance to the Hutts, and they still carry out this pledge by working as guards, warriors and henchmen for the Hutts. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's shelf.

Commentary: By now you probably know that this Nikto Guard was originally going to be part of a Battle Pack with Jabba the Hutt, but was removed due to costing reasons. That's why you have a figure in 2010 being sold for premium pricing and no knee or ankle joints. The detail is good, but the figure wasn't designed to do things like sit. WIth the legs as they are, you're probably just going to have this guy stand around and guard things. He has no problems holding on to his weapons, plus the removable hood allows you to get two of him and have him effectively be two very different looking action figures. I think he looks better without the hood, but that's me. While smooth, he does fit in to the animated line nicely and should be perfectly comfortable hanging out with your 2009 Jabba the Hutt Battle Pack, assuming you bought one of course. Jabba doesn't get a lot of thugs in the animated style, so I'd suggest picking up this one unless you want to reuse your Weequay pirates or Cad Bane... heck, that's not a bad idea.

Collector's Notes: It used to be that "gift with purchase" figures would get snapped up so fast you wouldn't even know they were there, but this one may actually still be available at your local Toys "R" Us. While the "free" part of the offer is long over, you can buy it and for the asking price I'd say it's decent enough to pick up. Odds are you won't see it reissued again because, clearly, the market hasn't dictated a need.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,507: March 24, 2011