Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,833: Clone Trooper

CLONE TROOPER Commemorative DVD Collection
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 34542 No. 34576
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Rifle, display stand, Anakin Skywalker, Saesee Tiin figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: Spring 2005
Appearances: Clone Wars 2003 series

Bio: Through the creative vision of Lucasfilm Ltd. and the Cartoon Network, the Clone Wars are brought to life in an exciting new series of short animated chapters. A unique animation style captures the drama of this epic period in galactic history along with its outstanding heroes and adversaries. Noble Jedi warriors lead Clone Troopers into battle against the evil Separatist forces and their droid armies. Anakin, Obi-Wan, Yoda and their comrades struggle against the rising power of the dark side and confront personal challenges against a backdrop of war-torn planets.   (Yes, this press release was taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's closet.  It's a nice closet.

Commentary:  From 2002-2005, Hasbro came to the realization that they could sell action figures which were, on some levels, effectively statues.  This Clone Trooper is one such release, based on the earlier, Samurai Jack-esque animated series.  For all intents and purposes he's jointed only at the neck and shoulders, so he can basically pose at attention.  And that's it.  The figure has a grey belt and some black markings, but is mostly a bright white plastic.   The design is the same as the Phase I Clone Trooper, but with a new head.  (Really, why not do that?)  This is a decent enough figure and another fine display piece, but as a toy you can't do much with it.  I know you don't need articulation for a great figure, but hip joints can compensate for bum molding if the legs are uneven, so it's a good thing this figure includes a display stand.  It's a nice looking figure and unbelievably cheaper than buying a high-end cold cast statue.

Collector's Notes: When I first got these sets I was pretty proud to have found them in a comic shop in Tempe for about $15 each.  "What luck!" I said, "I never once saw these in Walmarts despite daily visits during their supposed release while I was in Los Angeles!"  Well, I'm the chump, historically speaking.  These sets now go for $1-$5, boxed, on eBay.  The pair of 3-packs is under $15. Don't I feel smart?  Argh.  Well, learn from my mistake and if you can, go buy them for $1 or whatever it is.  Maybe it's free and it comes with a free milkshake or something.  Whatever man.


--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,833: June 22, 2012