Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,646: Even Piell

EVEN PIELL Climbing Gear
The Clone Wars Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 94736 No. 32844
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #CW58
Includes: Stand, lightsaber, climbing backpack, dice, card
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $8.99
Availability: August 2011
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: Even Piell is captured by Separatists and taken to the Citadel, a high-security prison built atop a massive cliff fac. The Jedi Master has information that could tip the outcome of the war. The Jedi launch a rescue mission using mountain-climbing backpacks to scale the steep slopes. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' kitchen.

Commentary: As Hasbro continues The Clone Wars Jedi figures, they seem to be getting progressively more interesting as toys. We saw Kit Fisto and Plo Koon given snow outfits, while Saesee Tiin got flight gear. So what does Even Piell get? Climbing gear. Unlike some of the other action feature-laden accessories, this one works fairly well. Just pull down on the bottom of the string, and he ascends the rope. It's not a very long rope, but it (again) works and is fun to mess with. I'm pretty happy with this accessory, and would love to see more things just like it: fun and functional. Oh, and it fits him perfectly, it's not hard to get it on his back, and is not annoying in the slightest. I shouldn't be as thrilled for "this toy works as advertised," but it does, and I am.

The figure itself is good. Not amazing, but good. With ball-jointed knees and elbows plus swivel wrists, it basically hits all the major markers of a decent action figure. Sitting is a bit of an issue due to the form of the plastic robes, but this toy is all about climbing so I can't complain too much. I have no problem ignoring a sitting problem if the item is otherwise a fun piece, and this is a fun piece. Be sure to snag one if you see it.

With a few scars, painted eyebrows, and a lot of detail in the face, it's a solid release. It's not crazy-detailed like some of the animation models, but it's a great animated action figure and it makes me happy that I keep collecting this line.

Collector's Notes: Even's pretty new, and it's unknown if he'll be shipping for long.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,646: October 5, 2011