Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,581: Gungan Warrior

GUNGAN WARRIOR First Carded Release
Power of the Jedi Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 84455 No. 84274
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/q
Includes: Shield, atlatl, Force File
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Fall 2000
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: The Gungans are an amphibious species who live in underwater cities hidden in deep lakes on the planet Naboo. Although Gungans have a strong warrior heritage, a series of treaties has long kept them at peace with each other. During emergencies, all territories unite to form the Gungan Grand Army. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's old back yard.

Commentary: While troop builders are usually something Hasbro does right out the gate, this Gungan Warrior came out over a year after making his first appearance on the big screen. I'm glad Hasbro waited, because at the time this was a pretty great figure-- and by today's standards, it ain't bad. The skin has this wonderful texture painted on it, which is lacking from the super-articulated 2009 release of this character. (You'll want both, of course.) The figure has a moist look, and his pose works well with his atlatl (the energy ball thing) and the energy shield. Hasbro did a great job sculpting the armor and painting it the right color, plus this Gungan's serious expression is appropriate for the character. You may not like Gungans, particularly ones which only have about six points of articulation, but this is a quality release and a great trooper. If you're on the fence, get it-- and if you hate Gungans, I doubt you made it this far.

Collector's Notes: This figure was repackaged in a Toys R Us exclusive gift set around 2004, but without all the accessories. You should buy both versions, as this one has the most gear, but the other one has a swell exclusive Kaadu with Captain Tarpals. The single-carded figure is worth about five or six bucks these days, while the Naboo Final Combat set is harder to get a read on as few come up for sale. You should be able to score it for under $30, though.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,581: July 6, 2011