Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,948: Purple R4-Series Astromech Droid

R4-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID White Dome with Purple Panels
Star Tours Droid Factory Customizable Figure
Item No.: No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Head, 2 legs, torso, central third leg, optional hat
Action Feature: Comes apart
Retail: $10-$12
Availability: 2012
Appearances: n/a

Bio: These figures do not have specific packaging or configurations.  As such, we will be treating each dome as a unique "figure" as that part is the most plentiful.   At this time there are 25 domes and while Hasbro sometimes seems to indicate they are not Hasbro product, they do have Hasbro copyright markings and as such we are classifying them under the Hasbro banner.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: For whatever reason, the R4-series Astromech Droid domes were in short supply when I was in Orlando for my Disney overpriced shopping adventure last August, and my pal Shannon was goodly enough to drop in after the convention ended to paw through their restock and get me the ones I missed.  Good man, Shannon, I owe you still.

The dome is similar to the one used for the Droid Factory figures in 2008, except now it's got a hole in the head for any hat you may wish him to wear.  Well, not any hat, but there are optional Mickey Mouse ears or a fedora or a pirate hate, to name a few.  The Goofy ears look best.  Anyway.  The purple R4 looks a lot like the blue R4, except for the color.  The big eye looks curious and inviting, silver panels on the dome break up this otherwise way-too-pale little guy nicely.   There's not a whole heck of a lot to say here other than I appreciate them augmenting the ranks of the R4 cone-head droids, which has always felt a little on the lacking side to me.  If memory serves (I'm on a plane writing this) there were 5 R4s based on the original body design, and another 5 based on the build-a-droid chassis.  They're all pretty neat, the purple one is a little too clean but still nifty.

Collector's Notes:  This item was a customizable release at Disney Hollywood Studios in Orlando, and you can configure them any way you wish. Again, with one purple body, this is the one to get.  Unless someone cranked out an all-purple plastic body with white panels by now.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,948: November 30, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,947: Purple R6-Series Astromech Droid

R6-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID White Dome with Purple Panels
Star Tours Droid Factory Customizable Figure
Item No.: No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Head, 2 legs, torso, central third leg, optional hat
Action Feature: Comes apart
Retail: $10-$12
Availability: 2012
Appearances: n/a

Bio: These figures do not have specific packaging or configurations.  As such, we will be treating each dome as a unique "figure" as that part is the most plentiful.   At this time there are 25 domes and while Hasbro sometimes seems to indicate they are not Hasbro product, they do have Hasbro copyright markings and as such we are classifying them under the Hasbro banner.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: Of the exclusive Disney domes, the R6 droid is the best.  It looks like it fell out of the late 1980s, and the purple panels do look quite nice on this one.  The trapezoidal head fits nicely (but not perfectly) on the droid body, and the colors do match quite well.  Detail feels a little soft here, but it's not like you'll notice.  The body has much crisper sculpting, but the paint distracts you from any rounded corners or softer lines.  Really, it's just a mass of white with purple bringing it to life, plus some nice red lights to break it up a bit.  The purple may be a smidgen too dark, as it obscures the round black eye in the center of its face.

If you can only get a couple of these droids, I'd put this one near the top of the list.  Distinctive and chipper, the R6 droid feels like it came out of a Star Wars sequel trilogy we'll sadly never see get made.

Collector's Notes:  This item was a customizable release at Disney Hollywood Studios in Orlando, and you can configure them any way you wish. This is the best configuration.  And yeah, we're looking at another purple astromech in the next FOTD too.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,947: November 29, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,946: Purple R3-Series Astromech Droid

R3-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Clear Dome with Purple Panels
Star Tours Droid Factory Customizable Figure
Item No.: No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Head, 2 legs, torso, central third leg, optional hat
Action Feature: Comes apart
Retail: $10-$12
Availability: 2012
Appearances: n/a

Bio: These figures do not have specific packaging or configurations.  As such, we will be treating each dome as a unique "figure" as that part is the most plentiful.   At this time there are 25 domes and while Hasbro sometimes seems to indicate they are not Hasbro product, they do have Hasbro copyright markings and as such we are classifying them under the Hasbro banner.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: With only one purple body, the R3-Series Astromech Droid purple dome really only makes sense on this frame.  Unless you're six and still have an imagination, I gotta color-coordinate these things or my head will explode.

With essentially the same layout as the clear red R3 dome, the purple one was more than a bit of a surprise given that we all know that Hasbro has made purple the official color of Mace Windu and Mace already has a droid.  Star Tours added three more to the mix, and I like it because unlike R3-M3 this one has a crystal-clear dome.  You can actually see all the junk on the body, which is slightly less cool than it sounds because unlike the regular Hasbro "Droid Factory" bodies, there's little extraneous deco here.  Those gears and guts are just silver on the Disney releases, but hey, at last the dome looks cool.  It's a different design from the traditional build-a-droid R3 head, as there's a hole in it for a hat, but it looks quite similar.  The paint job is nice and clean on the head, so I dig this one.

Collector's Notes:  This item was a customizable release at Disney Hollywood Studios in Orlando, and you can configure them any way you wish.  But really, this is the best way to do it right now.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,946: November 28, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,945: Watto

WATTO Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No. 87756
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 5 of 6
Includes: R2-T0, datapad, piece of C-3PX
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Image: Adam's toy shelves.

Bio: Watto sells used droids and mechanical parts in his shop on Tatooine. One of the droids for sale is R2-T0.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Commentary: When I walked out of The Phantom Menace, I thought Watto and Sebulba were probably the best effects in the movie as digital characters went.  Watto had the added (dubious) benefit of being mildly controversial, I particularly enjoyed watching reactions pour in from around the world where each region had different opinions of just which race he was knocking.  I was also quite surprised to see him left out of the 2012 Phantom Menace merchandise completely, with no Hasbro products featuring the character.  Not even Fighter Pods.  It's a good thing Hasbro made their best-ever Watto in 2008 as a cheap Walmart exclusive with a swell Astromech droid.

This Watto, which legend has it was sculpted by Art Asylum (and the quality shows), began life as a 1999 release which was treated to a bluer, better redeco as part of the first Droid Factory packs.  He still sports his accessory on his belt, and his datapad, but the figure itself is the gem here.  The paint masks look closer to the movie, and this bulbous fellow has dirty skin and webbed feet. I daresay it's more realistic than the movie, he still has a lot of personality in his face and is packaged with one of Hasbro's best astromech droids.   If you only get one Watto, make it this one.  Even though he has five points of articulation and the legs don't do you much good, it's just a wonderful figure.

Collector's Notes:  This set (and this wave) had variable distribution in 2008, but I had no problems finding them around Los Angeles.   While some complained of unavailability, the price of all the C-3PX Droid Factory sets have remained quite low while the figures in these sets are inarguably more interesting than the 2009 Darktrooper Droid Factory sets.   If you're so inclined, I'd suggest getting the entire 2008 set, especially Watto with R2-T0.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,945: November 27, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,944: Anakin Skywalker

ANAKIN SKYWALKER  Clone Wars
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No.  37507  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC92
Includes: Lightsaber, hilt
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: April 2012
Appearances: Clone Wars

Bio: Celebrate the legendary Star Wars saga that changed the universe forever! This collection brings to life the incredible story of good versus evil that captured our imagination and took us to a galaxy far, far away. Iconic Star Wars heroes and villains are captured with incredible detail and premium features to commemorate each epic tale in the Star Wars saga. May the Force be with you!  (Taken from the figure's packaging.  No specific character information.)

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: I often kid that the best way to get a Star Wars fan to demand a product is to tell them they can't have one.  This Anakin Skywalker was born out of a concept that almost resulted in the 2008 cartoon line being entirely "realistic," Hasbro instead went for a hybrid design with more realistic human proportions but an ultimately animated sculpting style.  A prototype Anakin was sculpted in a "realistic" style, and this is sort of its descendant.  It's a good figure, and Hasbro said we'd probably be getting around one figure from the cartoons in this style per wave for a while now.

This figure is really well made, if there was a "Pawlus' Law of Action Figure Design" booklet I would wager he hits all the right marks.  Each wrist has bend-and-swivel articulation, and the cloth lower-half of the figure looks pretty good while allowing his legs to move freely for posing or vehicle piloting.   His sculpt is sharp, if you zoom in you may see all sorts of subtle creases and folds, particularly on the "vest" part of his chest.  The armor looks great, the gloves are top-notch, and I love the fact he can angle his wrists up and down for dueling or just pointing his weapon at people.  A holt is also included, and it's a nice touch.  The head sculpt has a lot of personality too, so overall it's a good figure.  But...

Collector's Notes: ...it's a crying shame that this, and most 2012 Vintage figures, remain hard to get.  This is one of the few that seems to turn up at retail (I've seen him a few times) and I just don't get why Hasbro doesn't take a mulligan on 2012 and repackage some of these guys next year.  You may still be able to get this figure, either online at fine sponsors like Entertainment Earth or if they're dumped somewhere.  Which I figure they have to be eventually, too few of these seem to have got out.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,944: November 26, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,943: Clone Trooper Echo (Kamino)

CLONE TROOPER ECHO Defend Kamino
The Clone Wars Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 35566 No. 28533
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Gun, helmet, stand, more figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $26.99
Availability: July 2011
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio:    CT-21-0408, nicknamed "Echo," as he was known for "echoing" the standard rules and procedures established for clones, was a clone trooper who served in the Grand Army of the Republic during the Clone Wars.   (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam's photo area.

Commentary: I've got way too many clone trooper figures, and Clone Trooper Echo is technically the third release of just this figure.  Two different handprints were on the original armor (one for mass release, another as a Walmart-exclusive 2-pack with Cody) and this one is a big departure from that release with a much more ornate paint job.  I like this one a lot, and the "Defend Kamino" set should be tops on your wish list.  This time around the figure retains the removable helmet, and is built with ankle joints (which were out of fashion at the time of its release.)   With a nice tampo on his thigh reading "For Hevy," the popular trooper has some blue stripes on his armor and, of course, Rex' handprint from their adventures on an outpost with freakishly huge land eels.

If you like the deco here, you owe it to yourself to get this figure. As someone who has a few hundred clone figures, this is one of the designs that stands out as being nifty to me.  I dig it.  Go get one.

Collector's Notes:  This set was probably the best of the 2011 Battle Packs, which reduced the figure count per set to 3.  Clone Trooper Fives looked similar to Echo, and is cool too, but ARC Trooper Blitz is another solid reason to buy the set.  If you stumble on this one on the cheap, get it.  Even for $20-$25, it's going to be worth it in the long run.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,943: November 23, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,942: Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI Series 1
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 85003 No. 85217
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, display stand
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Late 2004
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.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: Here's a fun bit of trivia: I write a lot of these on planes.  The reason I bought a laptop a few years ago was specifically so I can make the best use of the time in the air, and let me tell you, the ad money from FOTD barely pays for the electricity.  Anyway, Obi-Wan Kenobi was one of the early animated figures with a notable action pose.  The angled right shoulder is unusual in that it lets the arm swing across the body and easily double-grip the figure's lightsaber.

Lacking in traditional detail, the figure instead goes for a highly stylized look with angular facial hair and a sharp haircut.  The figure's boots and hands are very blocky, giving this action figure the air of a nice, cheap animated maquette rather than a toy.  It's a gutsy move on Hasbro's part to make figures like this, and as much as I'd like to say the gambit paid off it really didn't.  The figures sold just fine during their time on the pegs, but the secondary market has not been kind to this now very cheap and totally worth owning action figure.

Collector's Notes: You should have no problem securing this figure for a couple of bucks on eBay, especially in a lot or as part of a collection.   As I'm fond of saying, I'm a big fan of this sub-line and at the price, you can probably score the entire collection for the upper double-digits.  It ain't bad.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,942: November 22, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,941: Princess Leia (Sandstorm)

PRINCESS LEIA  Sandstorm Outfit
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No.  49688  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC88
Includes: Cloth poncho, plastic wrap, goggles, plastic hood, pike
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: February 2012
Appearances: Return of the Jedi deleted scene

Bio: Celebrate the legendary Star Wars saga that changed the universe forever! This collection brings to life the incredible story of good versus evil that captured our imagination and took us to a galaxy far, far away. Iconic Star Wars heroes and villains are captured with incredible detail and premium features to commemorate each epic tale in the Star Wars saga. May the Force be with you!  (Taken from the figure's packaging.  No specific character information.)

Image: Adam's toy shelf.

Commentary: Since Princess Leia in her slave outfit has moved from a boner-inducing fantasy object of a generation to a tired old convention trope, I have to say it's actually refreshing to see Hasbro's latest take on the outfit.  Covering up Slave Leia may well be the only way to make the costume interesting again, as Hasbro pretty much perfected her in 2009.   This release is, for all intents and purposes, the same as the 2009 release without the optional "sitting" legs and neck chain.

This time around, Hasbro gave the figure some rags to act as wrappings, keeping the sandstorm from a deleted scene out of her face and hair.  A cloth poncho covers the figure, and plastic goggles fit snug over her eyes.  Topping it off is a plastic hood, which, honestly, looks way better than a cloth one would have.  It fits well, and her ponytail pokes out the side.   With 12 points of articulation she looks pretty fantastic, even if she's covered up.  But hey, you've got a shelf full of Slave Leia toys, be thankful we got something different.  Her staff looks cool too, being designed in more than one color gives it a little more life on the shelf and, of course, spoils us for future releases.  Two colors of metal on one accessory?  How can anything less compare?

Collector's Notes:  If you were an active toy hunter in February and March of 2012, you saw these figures on the shelves a few times.  The "Blu-Ray Wave" actually got pretty good distribution if you were there on the right day, Target and Walmart were (briefly) lousy with the things.  That didn't last long, by April you were pretty much out of luck if you wanted to find these at a big box store.  Today you should shop online to find this Leia, or you can try your chances at banging your head into a wall and seeing if that does you any good. 

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,941: November 21, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,940: Nuna

NUNA  Swamp Creatures
Discover the Force Walmart Exclusive Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 63349  No.  63354  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Tool, bag, Shaak, Pikobi, Faamba
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 1999
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: The Nuna, or "Swamp Turkey," is a two-legged blob of meat.  Baby Nuna hatchlings are pretty tiny, and coincidentally the full adult size of the Dwarf Nuna.  While designed as a Naboo creature, you can see Jabba delight in flicking them to their deaths on Tatooine.  There's also an awesome book called "The Wildlife of Star Wars" that features these and other creatures from the saga (and beyond) in great detail, which, honestly, I think you'll enjoy more than this figure.

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: 1999 was an orgy of delights when it comes to Star Wars as a licensed product.  There's so much stuff from so many companies that the mainstream press picked up on it, and Us Magazine (now Us Weekly) even called putzes like me to be quoted on how these would succeed or fail.  (I predicted a few turkeys, so I consider that bragging rights.  It also was the "Hunks of Summer" issue so you can bet I used that line on the few dates I could con women into going on... to no great effect.)

Anyway, Nuna.   This little guy was part of a sub-line of little plastic figures, unpainted, roughly 2-inches long.  "Battle Bags" were a bizarre carded packet, with the four figures completely obscured but fully identified in a black sack with this powdery slime that turns to gel when you submerge the bag in water.  It's a proper "toy" from a time when we saw the transition of Star Wars merchandise take a hard turn away from kid stuff, and man, this set was total kid stuff.  These figures were not really scaled to the figures on the whole, but the Nuna was pretty close to proper action figure size.

The little guy was molded in a creamy plastic and painted with some varying shades of green and given red eyes.  It's a fat little guy with bulbous toes and a strange wattle, standing near 2-inches high.  Since there's no articulation to speak of you probably aren't going to do a heck of a lot with him, but man, look at it.  It's neat!  One of the areas where I feel the prequels were shortchanged were its creature design, with bafflingly great creatures based on classic movie monsters, real-world sea creatures, and goodness knows what sort of nightmares were in the artist heads.  The Nuna was one of the many bipedal, arm/wing-free creatures and I just love it.  We'll probably never see more of the monsters from the first prequel as big toys, which saddens me, but I am really glad we got a more or less properly-sized Nuna for our action figures.  It's cute.  I love it.  I think you will, too.

Collector's Notes:  There were few times that were as glorious for toy hunting as the late 1990s and early 2000s, as massive clearance sales were almost the norm starting late December 1999.  The Battle Bags were dumped at Target for 75% off - that's when I got mine - as I was in a period where I thought I might actually be exiting Star Wars collecting, it was more of an afterthought purchase.  Today these sets aren't worth too much, but it surprised me they can still command $10 on eBay.  They're neat, for four little guys it seems a smidgen expensive but hey, I'd have paid $10 for this one.  I'm stoked Hasbro took a chance on this weird concept so I got a Sando Aqua Monster and numerous Naboo fish, even if the sizes aren't quite what I might have preferred.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,940: November 20, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,939: R2-D2

R2-D2  Royal Starship Droids
Discover the Force Walmart Exclusive Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 38606 No.  38608  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: R2-N3, R2-R9, R2-B1, display stands, die, cards, droid harness
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.96
Availability: January 2012
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: Astromech droids repair the Naboo Royal Starship. The shield generator and hyperdrive are damaged while escaping the Trade Federation's blockade of Naboo. The droids fix the generator, but the hyperdrive is too badly damaged. The ship is forced to land on the remote world of Tatooine to find a replacement part.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' photo area.

Commentary: There have been numerous versions of R2-D2, or "Artie Deetoo" as my boss' daughter once said, but this is the first one to be made from Droid Factory parts.   You can rip off his legs and head, or you can, you know, not do that.  The head swivels and the legs may be posed, with the third, central leg being fully removable if you're in to robot castration.  (Sicko.)

The design is a good one and the figure looks like R2-D2.  I mean, how could it not?  Even bad R2-D2 figures look like R2-D2.   This one I like a lot, because he has a big black central eye, the top panels on his head are all painted blue, and the little light under his eye is painted a color other than red for once.  I've got a lot of R2-D2 figures, so I'm happy to see one with different action features, accessories, or deco... and this one has all of those things.  This set is absolutely worth your while if you get a shot at it on the cheap.

Collector's Notes:  This item hit in very limited numbers in January before being all over the damn place around April.  And then it disappeared by July... I had to pick one up for my pal Daniel and they were pretty much gone by then.   You may be interested to know that this wasn't the only R2-D2 made of Droid Factory parts in 2012, you could also assemble one with some slightly different deco at Orlando's Disney Hollywood Studios as part of the Droid Factory scam thing.  If you want one now, it's either eBay or whatever place got a bunch of them after it was revealed more were waiting to come out somewhere.  I'm guessing.  I wrote this in September and am just spitballing at this point.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,939: November 19, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,938: Aayla Secura

AAYLA SECURA  Take Three, or Four
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No.  98524
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC58
Includes: Lightsaber, hilt, cloth cloak
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: April 2012
Appearances: Attack of the Clones, Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Celebrate the legendary Star Wars saga that changed the universe forever! This collection brings to life the incredible story of good versus evil that captured our imagination and took us to a galaxy far, far away. Iconic Star Wars heroes and villains are captured with incredible detail and premium features to commemorate each epic tale in the Star Wars saga. May the Force be with you!  (Taken from the figure's packaging.  No specific character information.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: Some figures were so good I couldn't fathom them being redone, like Aayla Secura.  The 2005 version was really nice, even though she lacked ball-jointed elbows she still looked fantastic and had a great range of movement.  This one's better.  The 2012 Vintage release has a hilt for her belt, 14 points of articulation, and a top-notch paint job.  The biggest surprise to me was the inclusion of lateral hip movement, so she can basically do the splits.  Her hands were sculpted to grip the lightsaber and to use the Force, and the overall level of quality in the sculpting and deco are sure to delight.  The cloth robes are a bit of overkill, but it's still nice to have.

Collector's Notes:  This figure, like the bulk of the 2012 line, was more than a little tough to find at mass market stores.   As such if you see her for a decent price, just buy it.  It's worth it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,938: November 16, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,937: Darth Maul

DARTH MAUL  Duel on Naboo
Discover the Force Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 37822 No.  37855
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, game stuff, additional figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $22.99
Availability: April 2012
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi battle Darth Maul during the invasion of Naboo.  The two Jedi encounter the Sith Lord in the palace hangar and fight a fierce lightsaber duel that ends in the Theed Generator Complex.   Obi-Wan becomes separated from Quik-Gon by the complex's security shield, and can only watch as his Master continues the battle alone. But when the shield lowers once more, Obi-Wan attacks Maul with grief-stricken determination. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: You can't keep Darth Maul down, no matter how convoluted the plot gets.  In 2012, we saw a half-hearted attempt to really push the character into the forefront between the 3-D reissue of Phantom Menace and numerous new installments of The Clone Wars deciding that no, he isn't dead.  Just crazy.

This figure is arguably one of the better new 2012 takes of the Sith apprentice, although his lightsaber is strictly 1999. Even though the blade is old, the figure is entirely new and sculpted with a mere 5 points of articulation.  The shoulders, hips, and neck all move nicely and as such, he won't be doing any high-kicking or crazy combat poses.  He will, however, stand up with minimal fuss and look great doing it.  The head sculpt is sme of the better work Hasbro has done at this scale, and I daresay it exceeds every Maul in this size on the market today.  I know a lot of you are skipping it because of the lack of articulation, and while you're welcome to do so, you're missing one of the few really great sculpts on the market this year.

Collector's Notes:  This set hit in April but was basically impossible to find until several months later.  By September the set was pretty common at US Target stores, so keep your eyes peeled or order it online.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,937: November 15, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,936: Clone Trooper Hardcase

CLONE TROOPER HARDCASE  Republic Clone Troopers
Discover the Force/The Clone Wars Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 37822 No.  37827  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, stand, game cards, Cutup, Bomb Squad Trooper
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $22.99
Availability: January 2012
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: Clone troopers train for combat on the planet Kamino.  Kamino is not only the place where the clone troopers are engineered; it is also where they are trained in battle tactics, fighting techniques and explosives.  Seasoned clone troopers push the cadets hard to turn them into the toughest and most skilled fighters in the galaxy.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' risers, which I'm not sure if I'm feeling for this display.


Commentary: Sharing a name with a Stormtrooper from the future, Clone Trooper Hardcase was part of a disjointed Battle Packs figure set earlier this year.  While figures are usually joined thematically by scene or location, these three are basically just members of the same army.  Well, sort of.  I don't believe any of the three ever shared the screen, let alone appeared in the same episode or even story arc.  It's a stretch, but I can appreciate a good clone trooper repaint delivery mechanism.

Using the later "Stone" body, this Clone Trooper lacks ankle articulation and has a mere 12 joints for your movement and amusement.  He's much thinner than many of the other troopers, but the look is closer to what you saw on TV.  His blue markings go nicely with numerous other figures, of course you could just as easily skip the lot of them if you're done with clone repaints.

Collector's Notes:  This set was the hottest seller out of wave 1 of the 2012 Battle Packs, but eventually it started to hang around.  It was the only one of the initial wave to have any new figures in it, so I would suggest picking it up if you have the means and interest.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,936: November 14, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,935: Silver and Red Droid Factory R2-Series Astromech Droid

R2-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Silver Dome with Red Panels
Star Tours Droid Factory Customizable Figure
Item No.: No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Head, 2 legs, torso, central third leg, optional hat
Action Feature: Comes apart
Retail: $10-$12
Availability: 2012
Appearances: n/a

Bio: These figures do not have specific packaging or configurations.  As such, we will be treating each dome as a unique "figure" as that part is the most plentiful.   At this time there are 25 domes and while Hasbro sometimes seems to indicate they are not Hasbro product, they do have Hasbro copyright markings and as such we are classifying them under the Hasbro banner.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: The red and silver R2-Series Astromech Droid is basically an update of R2-M5, an exclusive from a few years ago.  There are some differences to the dome design, such as the colors being slightly brighter and, of course, it's based on the build-a-droid mold rather than the R4-G9 body.  This means you can swap parts with other build-a-droid astromechs to your heart's content, but that probably means futzing with it for a week before settling on whatever configuration you prefer.    I went with this one.

While not necessarily a wow-wee, gee-whiz figure, this deco isn't all that bad.  Red is nice, and it fits in a few displays depending on how you're setting up your figures.   His optional hat hole is what makes the figure interesting, as it lets him have a distinctive, souvenir look if you're so inclined.  My guess is the bulk of people buying these are making good use of the hats.

Collector's Notes:  A red redeco of R2-D2 isn't part of the main line, so if you missed the 2006 exclusive Astromech Packs this is a pretty good substitute.   Of course, you can also add this dome to the red body with white panels if you're so inclined too.  As things go, it's not bad.  It's not exciting either, but it is distinctive enough to be worth some recognition.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,935: November 13, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,934: Darth Vader

DARTH VADER  Emperor's Wrath Redux
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No.  39654  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC115
Includes: Fist, lightning, lightsaber
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: July 2012
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: Celebrate the legendary Star Wars saga that changed the universe forever! This collection brings to life the incredible story of good versus evil that captured our imagination and took us to a galaxy far, far away. Iconic Star Wars heroes and villains are captured with incredible detail and premium features to commemorate each epic tale in the Star Wars saga. May the Force be with you!  (Taken from the figure's packaging.  No specific character information.)

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: Available on two different packages, Darth Vader brings back that ever-popular "Emperor's Wrath" look to pretty decent effect.  By recycling the 2005 Evolutions body which we're all sick of by now, the figure's newness comes from deco and accessories.  Oh, and a tweaked right arm.

This time around, the translucent helmet sports a skull inside which doesn't glow in the dark.  It's just there.   The figure is encased by blue Sith lightning boogers, which are relatively easy to get on and off despite the cape threading through them.  The lightsaber is nothing special, but the removable fist is interesting.  It's jointed and pops off at the wrist, revealing a painted stump underneath.  Vader's costume has black shoulder pads and some pretty vibrant silver on the chest, and this gives the figure a distinctive look compared to other takes on the mold.

With 14 points of articulation, this is not a bad figure.  Far from it, it's pretty neat but it's not what you would call versatile.  Given the "lightning" head, I don't know why they even include the blue energy snake things, at this point they might get a better figure by painting the lightning directly to the figure.  It's neat, but I would argue the late-2000 Power of the Jedi version is better because the head glows in the dark.

Collector's Notes:  Despite hitting in July, these figures didn't start showing up at retail until around September.  The assortment only has new figures, so it's pretty obvious if your store has/had any leftovers from the wave. This figure comes on a Return of the Jedi vintage cardback or a blue and black "Lost Line" look modeled after an abandoned, unused concept from the 1970s which frankly kind of sucks.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,934: November 12, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,933: Anakin Skywalker

ANAKIN SKYWALKER Commemorative DVD Collection
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 34542 No. 34576
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber, display stand, Saesee Tiin, Clone Trooper 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 photo hole.

Commentary: As part of the last batch of cartoony figures, Anakin Skywalker replicates his look on Nelvaan quite nicely.  A somewhat clever reuse of the previously-released Yavin duel version, this Jedi-in-the-making five four points of articulation and is basically a cool-looking and cheap statue.  The outfit isn't unique to this figure, a "realistic" take on this costume came out in 2007 so you've got choices if you dig this outfit.   The leech marks (or tattoos) on his skin are nicely done, painted in blue and they match the animation model pretty nicely.  Torn robes and pants are present, as is the robotic fist of Ghost Hand.    There's no articulation below the waist, so as toys go, this isn't a good one.  It's a nice display piece or desk accessory, and since it's pretty cheap I'd say it's a worthwhile purchase.

Collector's Notes:  This set is cheap on eBay, so yeah, no excuses for skipping it unless you flat-out don't want it.  Which is weird, I never saw this set at retail and got mine at a comic shop at basically SRP.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,933: November 9, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,932: Adi Gallia

ADI GALLIA Jedi High Council
Original Trilogy Collection Screen Scenes
Item No.: No. 32162
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: Scene 3
Includes: Base, extra base, 2 chairs, Anakin Skywalker, Saesee Tiin
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99
Availability: 2004
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: The Jedi High Council is the main interface between the Jedi and the government of the Republic. The twelve High Council members are chosen from the ranks of the Jedi Masters and represent a gathering of great minds who have proven themselves and their abilities in the service of peace and justice.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: While she has her fans, Adi Gallia hasn't had much love on the toy aisle.  After an iffy 1999 debut (I went through dozens to find non-wonky eyes), she got a retooled version in 2004 in this Jedi High Council set.  She lacks her outer robes, has no weapon, and is basically the same as the 1999 debut save for the added knee joints and a cloth "skirt" so she can sit.  It's a quickie, a limited-tooling option to fill out these packs in a hurry so you can finish your High Council diorama.  Given the lack of gear, the sets weren't much of a deal compared to basic figures in 2004.   She can stand, she can sit, and oh yes-- she can look incomplete.  9 points of articulation and no gear are bad enough, but to save a few more bucks, Hasbro opted to use this entire figure as Stass Allie for the same batch of exclusives.  They don't look all that much alike, but back then Hasbro was pretty adept at identifying and taking a shortcut.   This is a figure you track down for either the diorama pieces, or because you've gotta have them all.  The figure in and of itself was a bit of a dud in 2004, and today it really doesn't look any better.

I like Star Wars a lot, the action figures in particular, and 2004 was such a strange year in that we had some astonishingly good new sculpts (Saga J'Quille, Saga Admiral Ozzel, Vintage OTC Han Solo, OTC Dagobah Luke, OTC Yoda) and some unbelievably neat, well-priced items (Saga Wampa, Saga C-3PO with Escape Pod).  We also had some stuff that was just crap ("Is This Different?" OTC Bib Fortuna, most of the OTC Screen Scene figures, Vintage OTC C-3PO).   For better or worse, it makes 2004 one of the most interesting years to have gone through (and written about), but I guess you can't have the best of the best without some of the most boring of the boring, and Adi Gallia (and Stass Allie) make that cut.   Get the 1999 release, or cross your fingers for Hasbro to do another one some day.  Of course, since the last year where Phantom Menace will get a big push is now almost over, I wouldn't hold your breath.

Collector's Notes:  This set will probably cost you $30 on eBay today,  I would advise holding out for a cheaper price if you can.  Take that $30 and try getting some Glyos or Xevoz or SLUG Zombies or something instead.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,932: November 8, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,931: R2-D2

R2-D2 Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No.     87755
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 4 of 6
Includes: Luke Skywalker, piece of C-3PX, lightsaber, hilt, helmet, blaster
Action Feature: Twist dome for leg retraction action
Retail: $9.99
Availability: May 2008
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Luke is a young Jedi who helps defeat the Empire. His Astromech droid R2-D2 is damaged during the attack on the first Death Star.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's shelf.

Commentary: I've got a lot to say about the Luke in this set, but today it's all about R2-D2.  The 2008 Droid Factory series of exclusives was a gift to fans of robots and weird repaints, as you could buy 13 figures for $60 and all of them save for one were, at the time, changed enough to be quite interesting.  R2 in particular brought us an amazingly detailed battle-damaged take on the figure, built on the R4-G9 mold with its retracting central leg activated by the dome twisting.   It looks spectacular.   The front of the figure looks distressed, panels are popped open, wires are exposed, and the light under his eye is dimmed signaling the fake-out of the droid's death from the end of the original film.  Cables, silver circuits, and plenty of grime are rubbed into his body while the legs are, aside from some dirt, pretty much the same as usual.  The back of the robot has bulging damaged panels and exposed wires as well, leading one to wonder just what kind of lovable genius sculpted (and also approved) such a depressing take on one of sci-fi cinema's most beloved plastic pals who's fun to be with.

The dome is also notable in that there are some serious scuffs, as well as more soot and blown-open panels.  This is a droid that looks like it was pulled out of a scrapyard, even the toy looks like it's seen better days.  It's really amazing, and to be honest I'm wondering if I missed this one in the archives.  It's so fantastic, you really ought to get one.  The price isn't too high, so you can if you're so inclined.  I know you've all got, what, something over 2 and something under 30 R2 figures by now, but go ahead and add this one to your stash.  And if Hasbro ever repaints the mold, get that too.

Collector's Notes:  This figure showed up with X-Wing Luke at Walmart for a mere $10 at first, and the duo (sans C-3PX part) were sold with a Toys R Us exclusive Death Star Trench Run boxed set (with an X-Wing, Darth Vader, and his TIE Fighter) late in 2011.  That R2-D2 was not significantly different than this one and for all intents and purposes, I'm classifying them as the same figure.   (The Vader from that set is just different enough to make you mad, though.)

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,931: November 7, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,930: Black R6-Series Astromech Droid

R6-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Black Dome with Silver Panels
Star Tours Droid Factory Customizable Figure
Item No.: No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Head, 2 legs, torso, central third leg, optional hat
Action Feature: Comes apart
Retail: $10-$12
Availability: 2012
Appearances: n/a

Bio: These figures do not have specific packaging or configurations.  As such, we will be treating each dome as a unique "figure" as that part is the most plentiful.   At this time there are 25 domes and while Hasbro sometimes seems to indicate they are not Hasbro product, they do have Hasbro copyright markings and as such we are classifying them under the Hasbro banner.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: Long-time readers of everything I do know I love astromech droid figures.  My first duty when I found out I was getting a job in the toy business was "OK, now how can I get a bunch of droids out in a hurry?" and those made it out in early 2006.  Disney did one better by cranking out 25 unique astromechs this year, including the Black R6-Series Astromech Droid dome.  I love this one.  The face of R2-D2 was basically transplanted on a trapezoid, and the end result is positively charming.  Little blue infrared receptors on the side of his face, a red light under his big eye, and silver panels galore implore you to put this head on a black-and-silver body.  (Which apparently is frequently out of stock.)   It looks good on the black body with white panels as well, but c'mon.  This one looks best.

If you only get one or two droids, make this one of them.  It's fantastic.   It looks different than most non-Disney Hasbro droids and does a great job of giving you something a little different for your toy stash.   Unless you're deep in to the novels, this design is all but unknown to you so your main motivation to buy it is a dogged desire to complete the set, a love of robots, or an affliction involving too much money.  $10 is a lot for these guys when multiplied out, but honestly if I could walk into the store and get more of these at that price, I would.

Collector's Notes:  This item was a customizable release at Disney Hollywood Studios in Orlando, and you can configure them any way you wish.  The R6 dome mold is a Disney exclusive and to date is available in this color, white with yellow panels, and white with purple panels.   They can be expensive on eBay, so do some research prior to buying, or depending on your proximity to a Disney theme park, know it might be cheaper just to go there and buy them if you're gonna collect this subset.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,930: November 6, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,929: Shu Mai

SHU MAI Geonosian War Room
Saga Screen Scenes
Item No.: Asst. 84997 No. 84711
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 2 of 2
Includes: Table, Passel Argente, Nute Gunray
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99
Availability: Fall 2003
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: In a conference room on Geonosis, leaders of the Confederacy of Independent Systems watch Republic and Separatist forces engage in what will become the first batle of the Clone Wars. unscrupulous opportunists who will do anything that will benefit them financially, they ally with Count Dooku to advance their own interests.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: There truly aren't enough Star Wars figures named after things I can order at local Japanese eateries.  Shu Mai was a new mold at the time of her release, bringing us a new alien figure and a woman, which is always highly unusual in this line.   While a colorful, well-designed figure, I can't say she's exciting.   She's pretty neat, though.

The prequel aliens may be no less inventive than their original trilogy ancestors, but they were certainly not fetishized or canonized to the extent of the creatures from 1977-1983.  Imaginations ran rampant over what a Hammerhead was and debate still continues to this day, while Shu Mai is and always was some sort of evil banker.  OK, head of the Commerce Guild.  It's still not interesting.  Thankfully the figure is pretty sharp, and her outfit appears more vibrant than the character in the movies.  With no real leg movement to speak of thanks to her dress, the figure's neck and arms are really your main points of movement.  There's a jointed waist too, but this isn't really an action figure so much as it is a diorma filler.  Heck, she even came with half of a table to build said diorama.

The unique texture of the skin looks good under its blue deco, and the beedy little eyes pop nicely.   Her gold hat and neck gear contrast nicely with the bright red outfit, making this a figure that stands out on a shelf against the mostly brown and green creatures from Attack of the Clones.   There aren't a lot of Shu Mai toys out there, so this one is likely as good as you'll ever get.  She's certainly good enough as a collectible, but as a toy there's not a heck of a lot to play with here.  She can stand, she can point, she can look good.  She's certainly good enough, and the fact we even got her is something of an accomplishment.

Collector's Notes: These sets got dumped like a pregnant girl on prom night (is that a saying? Can it be?) at Kay-Bee toys, bringing the prices down to $10 or so.  Each Geonosian War Room goes for about $5-$10 these days, so if you're in a position to get them both for $20-$25, do so.  You get 6 pretty good figures and a great table in there, and if you've got any taste you'll add in a Wat Tambor too.  That's a fun figure, and as a collection these figures do go nicely together.   Just remember, these are basically display pieces lacking in fun accessories.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,929: November 5, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,928: Clone Commander Fox

CLONE COMMANDER FOX Launcher Fires Missile!
The Clone Wars Basic Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37290 No. 38419
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: CW18
Includes: 2 pistols, display stand, launcher, projectile
Action Feature: Gun launches rocket
Retail: $8.99
Availability: July 2012
Appearances: Clone Wars TV series

Bio: This awesome CLONE COMMANDER Fox figure is rendered in careful detail to look just like the character in the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series! Send him into missions to save the galaxy, armed with his blasters and firing missile launcher. Re-enact your favorite Star Wars battles or create brand new ones with this cool CLONE COMMANDER Fox figure!    (Taken from the figure's web site entry.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: Originally Hasbro told us that we'd only see 19 Clone Wars figures carded in 2012, and we complained.  And shortly after Clone Commander Fox came out we discovered this was a lie-- there would only be 18 and that this would be the only new figure in his wave.   That doesn't happen much.  For those keeping track, only 11 new individually carded figures based on The Clone Wars made it out this year.   By comparison, 12 new figures were cranked out in August and September 2011 alone.   But anyway, Fox.

Fox is at best acceptable.   The figure's body is basically the new Captain Rex with 8 points of articulation, but with Cody's helmet and new deco.  While the new Rex had deco so amazingly good people mistook the damage paint job for actual damage or discoloration, the new Fox is not only squeaky-clean, but lacking when compared to the trading card included with the figure.  The tubes on the helmet have fine detail, the figure is a little less refined.  The damage and color variation on the torso was skipped in favor of a solid red torso, plus the chin on the helmet lacks the white box on the animation model and packaging.  I realize some of you may think I'm harping on the level of deco, but when a figure is a redeco, that's really the only thing you can get right or wrong, and this is a pretty lackluster effort.

Were this just a figure Hasbro made up and never appeared on the show, I would say it's fantastic.  It looks cool, I love the red, the two small blasters are great, and I'm sick of giant rocket-firing launchers that simply cannot be held by the figure due to gravity.   The sum of its parts are quite good, but when it comes from a TV show, authenticity counts for a lot.   This one needs some work.   Here's hoping he makes it back in 2013 with an altered paint job... hey, it worked for Chewbacca this year!

Collector's Notes: If you make it, and you make it hard to get, they will come.  Due to his being 2 per case in only 1 case in a year where distribution isn't all it could be, eBay prices are north of $25.  Which, I guess, isn't awful but The Clone Wars secondary prices have a habit of huge surges which last a really long time.  If you want this one, I suggest lots of hunting, or waiting out the market.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,928: November 2, 2012

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,927: General Grievous

GENERAL GRIEVOUS Commemorative DVD Collection
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 34542 No.     34577
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: 2 lightsabers, display stand, Commander Cody, Obi-Wan Kenobi 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 photo hole.

Commentary: While a smidgen awkward, General Grievous looks really cool as an animated figure.  Due to his evolving style, this version - the later, 3-pack release - looks more like the movie with its red-lined cape and warmer colors. The single-carded release looks cold, while this one looks like a cartooned-up version of the movie character.  I like this one a little more, even if the other one is arguably more interesting due to its overall weirdness.

The figure is a textbook definition of "action pose."  With his giant feet and complete lack of articulation below the waist, the photo is pretty much how he's going to look.  You can get a fair amount of motion out of his swivel waist, swivel shoulders, and ball-jointed neck, but it's still basically going to look pretty close.  The lines are simple and clean, with few extraneous details.  There are lightsabers on his belt, yellow eyes with a red organic lining, and a whole mess of armor under a cloth cape.  It's not easy to see in the picture but the action-packed cyborg is posed hunched over severely, giving him a lot of extra character that is pretty lacking in... well, frankly every other Grievous figure Hasbro has made.   While essentially a statue, it's neat.  I've got a shelf full of these animated guys and I love 'em, and if you're a Grievous fan (or know one) keep in mind that...

Collector's Notes: ...this figure, in all his styles, is close to worthless.  The 3-packs are worth significantly less than issue price and look pretty fantastic.  I get endless emails from fans going on how much they love that 2003-2005 animated Clone Wars cartoon, yet few bought the figures.  They're great.  Let's be honest, most of you aren't playing with these anyway, and they look fantastic.  You've got a desk at work, right?  Get some of these.  You won't be sorry, especially since they're significantly cheaper than the higher-end maquettes Gentle Giant put out.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,927: November 1, 2012