Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,992: Plo Koon

PLO KOON Jedi Master
Clone Wars Shared Online Exclusive Ultimate Gift Set
Item No.: No. A0793
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Double-lightsaber gauntlet, faux hood, display stand, card, plus Boost, Sinker, and Commander Wolffe figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $39.99
Availability: Fall 2012
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio: The famed 104th "Wolf Pack" Battalion serves under Jedi General Plo Koon and is led by Commander Wolffe.  At the Battle of Abregado, the entire battalion was decimated, losing only Wolffe, Sinker, and Boost.  Only luck, ingenuity and the unyielding determination of Plo Koon kept them alive.  The troopers' armor was originally red, but Wolffe, changed it to blue-gray to honor the many comrades who were lost in the battle.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.  It's weird. "Losing" only..?  No, "Leaving" only.  Argh.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: This Plo Koon mold has been around for a while and has received a few redeco treatments.  A 2009 Target Battle Pack had him in a different shade of brown.  A 2010 Speeder Bike pack-in added knees and a cloth skirt.  This 2012 version is pretty much the same as the 2008 release, minus some accessories.  The individual lightsabers are not present.  The plastic head-covering hood accessory is missing.  He includes a Galactic Battle Game card, but it's recycled from the snow gear version from early 2012 and does not feature new art.  So why get it? The clones, of course!

The figure itself has some batch differences in deco.  The head lacks the intense wash (or wipe) of brown paint, which gives it a cleaner, more cartoony feel.  The red symbols on his forearms are now a brighter red.   Other than that, it's pretty much the same figure with 10 points of articulation and not much ability to stand.  Unless you put it side-by-side with the 2008 version, I doubt you'd know it was different.

It's still a very good figure with a great sculpt.  By today's standards his stance is winder and he's a little thicker, as opposed to the skinny figures we enjoy today.  (Or enjoyed last year, at any rate.)  If you don't have an animated Plo Koon, this is a fun one.  He lacks the cartoon-accurate lightsaber, but I like the double-bladed gauntlet weapon so much that I don't care.  I'd rather have this, personally.   He looks good and his joints are nice and tight, so if you're going to get this set anyway (and you should) this is a perfectly good Plo Koon for your figure collection.  Of course, if you want all the accessories from the other releases, you've got more figures to buy.

Collector's Notes: It's not bad.  The set's price has been in flux since its release, going down to as little as $15 last year.  Don't overpay for this one, but $30 or so is a pretty solid price for the set.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,992: January 31, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,991: Yellow R8-Series Astromech Droid

R8-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID White Dome with Yellow 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: It's Yellow R8-Series Astromech Droid!  I really like this, and the yellow looks great.  I gave it an R7 body with yellow markings, as the deco makes it look quite different.  The eyeless dome is a little creepy, but the red dot and a dish help give him some personality.  The top of the head has a hole in it for a hat, and looks a little bit like a bowl in which to dip your chips.  I like it.  It's bright and cheery, yet decidedly retro with lots of rectangles.   I admire the restraint in its design as many other droids seem to be a little too busy, while this one almost seems like it took a step closer to the modern simplicity of personal electronics.   As a non-movie droid his appeal is probably squarely to tourists and droid weirdos, but I dig it and I think you might want to track it down.  The yellow Star Tours droids are all really swell.

Collector's Notes: It's not bad.  It's probably worth the extra few bucks.  Don't go bonkers, but if you have to shell out $20 it's pretty much worth it.  It's unique and unlike other droids you can buy in stores, it's a real shame you have to drop a $100 cover charge and a trip to Orlando to buy these.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,991: January 30, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,990: Clone Trooper Mixer

CLONE TROOPER MIXER Droid Attack on the Coronet
The Clone Wars Toys R Us Exclusive Set
Item No.:   No. 32795
Number: n/a
Includes: Another clone, a big spider droid, three mini spider droids, two blasters, three stands, cards
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99
Availability: September 2011
Appearances: The Clone Wars

Bio:  A spider assassin droid attacks clone troopers in the cargo hold of the Coronet. Duchess Satine is on board the ship, heading to Coruscant to meet with the Senate.  The Mandalorian splinter group Death Watch, which wants the duchess out of  the way, has sent a spider assassin droid to attack her.  The deadly droid strikes two clones as assassin droid spawn slip away to carry out the treacherous mission. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's basement window.

Commentary: It's Mixer!  This Clone Trooper came out in 2011 in a set which seems to be around in some stores to this day.  It's not a bad set, it's just priced that way.  Two clones and a jumbo droid are great toys, but these were made before the "lamp" helmet got sculpted and released, so it is what it is.  And what it is, is pretty cool.  You get a nice Clone Trooper with a blaster and a unique armor decoration available nowhere else.  That's one thing I'm pretty glad about, Hasbro generally makes each Clone pretty unique, particularly since they got beyond plain white figures.   Sadly, that run seems to be dying down a bit so the unique troopers like this are far and few between.  With blue stripes on his shoulder and helmet, the figure is one of Anakin's  boys and is based on the newer "Stone" body.  Which, now, is antiquated.   You don't get ankles, but it is nice and skinny plus painted fairly well.  Unless, of course,  you wanted the helmet lamps in which case too bad.

Collector's Notes: It's probably not worth your while to pay more than retail for this one.  It stuck around for over a year in most markets and for all I know is still available, dusty, at a store near you.  I saw tons back in December.  I would say get it if you love the show, because it's not like there's a heck of a lot else to buy since 2012 started.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,990: January 29, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,989: Lumat the Ewok

LUMAT  Return of the Jedi
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No. 38526
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC104
Includes: Hood, spear, 3 arrows, bow
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: October 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 hole.

Commentary: As a kid Lumat was one of my favorite figures, so this long-in-development update is something I was super jazzed for late last year.  He was one of the later batches of original Ewoks, and when we got Graak in 2007 Hasbro made mumblings that made it feel like that might be our vintage Lumat update.  Thankfully, it wasn't, and now we have one.  based on the Logray 2011 body, this figure has elbows!  Seriously, elbows! Did you ever think we'd see an Ewok with 12 points of articulation when the line rebooted in the 1990s?  I didn't.  This is pretty amazing stuff, and the fur texture and painted detail is incredible.  The head and face are colored similarly to the cardback photo, and the hood has a swell quiver attached to it.   You can actually remove the arrows, or even clip one to the bow!  It's a great improvement over previous toys and gives you more bang for your buck, which short Ewoks really do need.

What's more, he has a spear if you'd prefer that option.  For a figure which could have just been a 2007 Graak repaint, Hasbro did a nice job using a new sculpt with tons of nifty new accessories too.  If you like Ewoks, buy this one.  You'll be glad you did.

Collector's Notes: Also a less-desirable figure from the last wave, it's going cheaper on the secondary market.  $7 or less in December.  For that you're a fool to pass this one by!

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,989: January 28, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,988: Weequay

WEEQUAY  Return of the Jedi
The Vintage Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37499 No. 39654
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #VC107
Includes: Blaster, pike
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: October 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 hole.

Commentary: Historically, this Weequay has been a high point of what Kenner (now Hasbro) can do.  The 1983 one had a top-notch sculpt for its day, with lots of details and wrinkles in an era where things were usually pretty simple.  It also introduced an "action pose" where both hands could be posed on the weapon, which was carried forth to the 1997 version which managed to be the shining sculpt of its day.  Now in 2012, the costume gets another release which turned out to be pretty great.  The problem is, the 1997 one was really spectacular despite being in the era of beefy, six-jointed figures.  It stood out as one of the best then, which makes it harder for this even-better figure to look amazing today.  Hasbro replicated the outfit with all sorts of folds, wrinkles, and warts with a wonderful texture on his skin and costume.  The weapon, now larger, has some decent detail and has no problems being held by the surprisingly ornate hands.  The fingers look like they were sculpted individually, plus the index fingers are separated so they can easily squeeze a trigger on most guns.

The only place this figure falls short is, oddly enough, movement.  While he does have 14 points of articulation, the lateral shoulder movement is limited and the knees look wonky if bent.  It's great to have the option, but this is a figure where the design, specifically the pants, do not necessarily beget great articulation.  I'm glad it's present so we have the option, but given how these figures behave once opened it seems unnecessary.  Still, have you seen a better Weequay?  Answer: no.  It's a wonderful figure and one which should be on the top of your list.   As Jabba's thugs go, this is another fine entry in Hasbro's ongoing plan to make all of the toys you grew up with and loved feel inferior.  It's just so dang nice.

Collector's Notes: This one, for some reason, was cheap on Amazon after the "last wave" of Vintage came out in 2012.  I don't know why this one isn't as desirable because it really is superb. If it's still available for $7 and you don't buy it, you're part of the problem.  Even for $10-$13 it's pretty great.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,988: January 25, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,987: Mace Windu

MACE WINDU Series 1
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 85003 No.     85223
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 hole.

Commentary: The 2003 Clone Wars series gave some characters pretty memorable adventures, including 2 short episodes where Mace Windu kicked the snot out of droid armies using the Force and what I assume must have been some serious rage issues.   For the series, his costume added Clone armor elements and kept the awesome purple lightsaber.   His arms and neck are jointed, but like the rest o this line he's basically a statue with limited movement.   He looks amazing and that lightsaber looks really cool, plus the figure retains the simplified, blocky-in-spots look seen in the cartoons.  I wish the face had a little more paint or a few painted black lines to make the details pop more, but it's still a nice figure.   Some darker eyebrows would've been nice, though, as the figure has some nifty personality sculpted into the head which could use some exaggerating.

Collector's Notes: Since this line sort of fell off the fan radar, you should be able to get this figure cheap.  And if you can't, email me, I might have a spare.  A realistic version of this figure was released in late 2003 and was one of the first ball-joint headed figures in the line.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,987: January 24, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,986: Blue R2-Series Astromech Droid

R2-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Silver Dome with Blue 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: You can make R2-D2 using parts from the Blue R2-Series Astromech Droid, but to most kids it would seem all astromech droids are "R2-D2."  They were out of R2 bodies when I was at Disney (I managed to get one later) but you can also  build a swell blue droid using the dome, or even use an R7 body if, uh, well, things did not go as planned, let's say.   This mold in these colors lends itself to numerous varied builds, and I gotta say I really do like how the R7 body looks with the dome.  My favorite build (not shown) is just giving R2-D2 the Indiana Jones hat, it's odd but it just seems like a really perfect fit in terms of personality.

Since R2-D2 is available in build-a-droid Droid Factory pieces already, you may not see a reason to chase down this version.  It's painted slightly differently (note the red light) and has a hole in its head, but it's still basically R2-D2.  If you love R2 or need to collect them all, it's worth chasing down.  I like the coloring a lot, and the vibrant red dot actually makes it worthwhile if you ask me.

Collector's Notes: Probably not worth the asking price relative to other toys you can get, but if you're like me you have a problem and want them all.  So yeah.  Go ahead and get it, you know you want to.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,986: January 23, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,985: Galactic Marine

GALACTIC MARINE Battle on Mygeeto
30th Anniversary Collection Battle Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87503 No. 87815
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Rifle, helmet, backpack, 4 other figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99-$24.99
Availability: Summer 2008
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: As a stronghold of the InterGalactic Banking Clan, the crystalline world of Mygeeto is caught in the maelstrom of the Clone Wars. It is where much of the Separatist movement’s wealth is kept, and so it is targeted by the Republic: gain control of Mygeeto, and the Separatists lose crucial funding. Ki-Adi-Mundi is stationed on the icy planet with the mission of wresting it from the Separatists. Together with Clone Commander Bacara, Ki-Adi-Mundi and the Galactic Marines battle the droid army in fierce urban fighting, pushing forward against a grim onslaught of super battle droids and enormous tri-droids.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: Almost the very definition of "just different enough to make you mad," this version of the Galactic Marine would be skippable were it not for the handy fact that, as an army builder, you'll want another one.   They biggest and most obvious differences between this and the normal carded release are the mud/damage markings on the figure, plus his pants.  The 2007 individually carded Marine has dark grey pants, and this one is a much lighter grey color.   There are some minor color batch variations, but other than that they're quite similar.  According to the renderings I've examined, this Battle Pack version is slightly more accurate to the movie.  Of course, lighting varies depending on the environment so I suppose it's up to debate, but the raw renderings of the troopers really do seem to have lighter pants.

Articulation is the same as the other marines, with about 14 joints in the usual places.  The skirt prevents the figure from sitting, and the design has legs fairly close together so he may require a stand for stability.  He can still stand, but his center of gravity could probably use a little help.   While there's a lot of articulation, it doesn't necessarily give a great range of movement.  Sure, he's got a lot of moving parts, but he's pretty stiff overall. If you're trying to pare down your collection and only want one movie-accurate version of the Marine, I'd suggest getting this one and this entire set.  The Bacara and Ki-Adi-Mundi make it totally worthwhile.

Collector's Notes: This set was hard to get, and still is.  The price on the secondary market varies, but $30 isn't too far off from normal.  It's worth $30 to crack open and enjoy, but higher than that may be a little more painful.  It's still a solid set, but I don't know that I'd be happy shelling out $60 or more for it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,985: January 22, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,984: Teebo 2012

TEEBO Ewok Warrior, Ewok Pack
Discover the Force Toys R Us Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. A0790 No. A0791
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Packaged with Flitchee, Nanta, Tippet, and Kneesaa figures
Action Feature: Swappable hoods, axe, necklace, drumsticks
Retail: $39.99
Availability: August 2012
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: The Ewoks of Bright Tree Village join forces with the Rebels to battle Imperial troopers.  These diminutive natives of Endor are fierce fighters with an array of weapons to help defeat the troopers and immobilize Imperial walkers.  Armed with spears, clubs and weapons taken from overpowered troopers, the Ewoks do their part to free the galaxy.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo hole.

Commentary: To say that Teebo's costume has been the subject of controversy would be to further demolish what little meaning words have left, so let's just say it's been a fun topic of discussion.  The Kenner 1984 Teebo had a hood like the figure pictured, while the 2001 Hasbro had a sort of a bib.  Which is more correct?  Well, neither, so Hasbro decided for this 2012 release that we'd get everything.  The short little guy has a necklace, drumsticks, different versions of a very ornate (and nicely painted)  hood, and more all plied on to the body originally used for Logray (and later used for Lumat) over the last few months.   The body type is notable for being the only Ewok buck to sport elbow joints, and the figure has a fairly robust 12 points of articulation.   Seeing how this figure came with all of the parts to replicate either previous costume used for the Teebo action figure, it's pretty much definitive.  You can throw your old Teebo figures out now.

THe face has some nice deco as well, with a little bit of flesh peeking out from around the fur near the eyes, nose, and lips.   The fingers are pink, the toes have painted toenails, and you get some decent grey stripes on the furry body.   While this set was more expensive than I would deem appropriate for the shorties, Hasbro didn't take any shortcuts on these guys.  Considering this is the last Teebo you'll ever need to buy, you may as well shell out some cash and get the set.

Collector's Notes: I got my money's worth.   Sure, I miss the days of 2 Ewoks for $6 or $7, but I also miss $1 comics at my grocery store and the ability to buy a can of soda for 25 cents.   If Hasbro's going to jack up the prices, at least they made this a fairly deluxe figure.  Still, I'm sure fans will clamor for an eventual reissue on a Vintage-style cardback, so keep your eyes open for those in, let's say, 2014 or 2015.  Because why not.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,984: January 21, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,983: Yellow R2-Series Astromech Droid

R2-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Silver Dome with Yellow 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: If this Yellow R2-Series Astromech Droid looks familiar, it probably should.  While made out of Droid Factory parts, the deco is quite similar to the 2006 release R2-C4 although neither is obviously superior.  This version seen here has a big black eye and a bright red dot under it, plus a shining, clean, and new droid body.  R2-C4 had some gnarly grim deco, a light-up eye, and black wires on the feet.  The articulation is pretty similar, and while R2-C4 had a sharper looking body, this Droid Factory release has a better dome.   Since neither has the obvious edge, I should note the Droid Factory release has a hole in its dome and it can wear Jack Sparrow's hat.  That's gotta be worth something right?

Collector's Notes: Neat, but expensive and hard to get.   Hopefully someone at Disney realizes there could be a decent market in selling buckets of parts to people who can't make it to the park to spend an hour rummaging through bins.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,983: January 18, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,982: Wunka the Ewok

WUNKA Ewok Scouts
The Vintage Collection Kmart Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. A1116 No. A1117
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Hood, axe, Widdle
Action Feature: Removable hood
Retail: $14.99
Availability: October 2012
Appearances: Return of the Jedi

Bio: These two Ewoks take over an AT-ST walker during the Battle of Endor helping the Rebels in their fight to seize an Imperial bunker.  With their new friend Chewbacca, the Ewoks hijack the Imperial walker and toss one of the troopers out of the AT-ST while knocking the other trooper unconscious.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's photo dump.

Commentary: Likely the figure Hasbro meant to do when we got Oochee in 2007, our recently-released Wunka probably technically (or not) a new figure.  It also elicited "I think that's racist" from the Mrs.  The figure is based on a frequently revisited 2007 Ewok buck except with a new head, new weapon, and new hood.  The eyes and teeth are expressive to a level which makes me feel uncomfortable, particularly under harsh lights and the lens of my camera.  The fur is dark, like in the movie, and there's just something a little more unnatural about the teeth than I'd like.  If anything, they remind me more of Darth Vader's "mouth" with the strong, vertical lines.   If ever you wanted an Ewok action figure to look like a creepy Ewok action figure, this may be the very best of them.

The hood is great, the axe is fine, and the body is good.  No complaints there.  It's just the eyes and teeth that are rubbing me the wrong way, and I don't really know if it's a sculpt issue or a deco issue.  Either way, it's a must-have for Ewok completists and for figures with disturbing facial expressions.  There aren't many genuinely unsettling Hasbro action figures but this one makes the cut, despite it generally being, if I were to go down a checklist of what should make a good Ewok toy, pretty good.

Collector's Notes: This set showed up later than anticipated but is pretty findable in markets which still have Kmarts.  For $15, it's great.  For $12, it's greater.  For $25... it could be better.  The sheer amount of wasted packaging is almost painful, you could probably cram 6 or more Ewoks in this figure's 2-pack box.  Not that you would... but you could.  It might be on clearance at a Kmart near you right now.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,982: January 17, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,981: Luke Skywalker

LUKE SKYWALKER Wal-Mart Exclusive
30th Anniversary Collection Droid Factory
Item No.: Asst. 12980 No.     87755
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 4 of 6
Includes: R2-D2, piece of C-3PX, lightsaber, hilt, helmet, blaster
Action Feature: Removable helmet
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: The funny thing about this particular Luke Skywalker is that it came out about a year after the Vintage 2006 X-Wing pilot version, and is tons better.  This basic figure was released in the Walmart-exclusive Droid Factory set, and basically unchanged again in the 2011 Toys R Us-exclusive Death Star Trench Run collection.  This Droid Factory Luke is a zillion times better than the Vintage one.  Don't even bother getting it, just get this one.  Both have the same (incorrect) Darth Vader lightsaber hilt for his belt, but once you get beyond that we're talking Big Improvement here.

The 2008 release adds lots of deco to the helmet.  Note the black stripes on the yellow rectangle on the helmet, the black lining on the sides and interior of the helmet, the black stripes along the sides of the helmet... basically, it's a lot of black.  At first, I thought this figure was a dud because it still didn't have battle-damage or scuffing, but the reality is the newer release puts several paint apps that just plain weren't there in 2006.  But wait, there's more!  The straps around his legs and crotchial zone are now painted shiny silver, the map on his left forearm is loaded with more paint whereas the previous release was virtually unpainted, and his belt is now grey instead of brown.  The later release is significantly more striking, and most if not all of the changes bring it much closer to being accurate to the film.  Oh yes-- and it provides significantly more bang for the buck.  The Walmart exclusive set was $10, plus it included a really cool R2-D2 and a C-3PX piece.  And the vintage figure?  Not so much.

Luke has 14 points of articulation and is pretty nicely articulated.  It's not perfect, the straps do get in the way of him being a good pilot as any stiff plastic acts sort of like a skirt piece.  It can still bend, but it's annoying.   There's a hole in the belt for the lightsaber, and at this point I can't imagine getting more detail or articulation into this costume without making a bigger figure or bringing back soft goods... and old-school t-crotches which are great for vehicle pilot action figures.

Collector's Notes: This figure set, by itself, has been creeping up.  However, the lot of 6 can sometimes be had cheaply, and it should be bought if you like to collect robots.  I assume that you do.  It's a great Luke and easily the best X-Wing Pilot Luke you can get right now.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,981: January 16, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,980: Asajj Ventress

ASAJJ VENTRESS Series 1
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 85003 No.     85219
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: 2 Lightsabers, 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: She's become a heck of a lot more popular since her 2003 debut. Asajj Ventress really broke out last year on the current Clone Wars TV show, where she's become a slightly more conflicted villain rather than the two-dimensional "let's kill all the Jedi for some reason" witchy warrior from the old series.   In that old show, she had a great look with empty white eyes lined by a thick black line.  Her blue/grey lips are drawn down, with her eyebrows raised high giving her a look more of detached scorn over anything else.  Her outfit is sculpted quite nicely, with painted ridges around her neck, sculpted quilting in her chest armor, and a slick flowing dress.  The black part really flows nicely, and was in line with a short 2-year run of really bulky, really cool sculpted dresses on numerous lady figures.  Her coloring isn't quite as ornate, nor is her face as mean, as her animated counterpart but she's quite good and I'm sure you could paint her to be an A++ instead of the A-level figure she turned out to be as it is.  Get her if you can!

The lightsabers fit right into her hands, with swivel shoulders and a ball-jointed neck giving her limited ability to move.   The sparks of the ignited lightsabers look great, plus a companion Yavin IV battle Anakin Skywalker exists so the two can duke it out.  (He even comes with one of her sabers!)  The included display stand is icing on the cake.

Collector's Notes: This figure sells for under $5 on eBay, a couple of bucks as part of a lot.  She costs a little more on Amazon, I would suggest not paying more than $10.  Not because she isn't worth it, but rather because you should be able to get a screaming deal without too much trouble.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,980: January 15, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,979: Blue R7 Series Astromech Droid

R7-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Silver Dome with Blue 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.  Oh, and I'm assuming you'll build this figure exactly as I did this time.

Commentary: At first glance, you probably think that the R7-Series Astromech Droid is just 2008's R7-T1.  Nope!   Despite a number of superficial similarities, Disney's version of the R7 in blue is much, much bluer.  A brownish color covered many of the panels on Hasbro's 2008 release, while this new one is pretty much all blue.  Also, the legs are R2-D2-style legs, not the R7 legs with the rockets coming out of the side.  The greenish lights on the dome are now red, and the blue is closer to R2-D2's in color.  I really like this version a lot more than the one which was parted out in 2008, but since it's harder to get it's all up to you if it's worth sucking it up and paying the Disney tax to get it.  At first glance the droids are exactly the same, but a side-by-side comparison reveals the bluer and therefore brighter look of the 2012 release.

Collector's Notes:  This item was a customizable release at Disney Hollywood Studios in Orlando, and you can configure them any way you wish.  Any way other than this way is, of course, wrong.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,979: January 14, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,978: Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI Jedi High Council
Original Trilogy Collection Screen Scenes
Item No.: No. 32154
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: Scene 2
Includes: Base, extra base, 2 chairs, Eeth Koth, Plo Koon
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: Another day, another Obi-Wan Kenobi.  The Jedi High Council made use (and reuse) of figures which fans weren't clamoring for in the slightest, as this particular figure was one of the nastier pegwarmers around 2000.  Of course, back then it had a really neat plastic cloak and lightsaber, and this time around... it doesn't.  The figure is fundamentally the same as the 2000 release, with minor batch differences in the plastic and paint, in particular the face and hair.  The 2000 version looked a little more lifelike, plus the gear just brought it to life.  All this figure can do is stand around, he can't even really sit since his plastic "skirt" is a little too stiff.  With only eight joints, it's not like it stands out as one of Hasbro's finest either... it's acceptable, and while I think it was better (in 2000) than the previous sculpts, by 2004 it really could have used a refresh.

This mold and variations on it - including head swaps - continue to ship to this day.  The same body is used for the Obi-Wan Kenobi which you'll find in the MTT from 2012, but it has a different 2000 head.   Unless you're a hardcore Jedi fan, give this set a miss.

Collector's Notes: Kenobi... Koth... Koon... hey, what a minute!  What are you trying to pull here, Hasbro?  I kid. Anyway, this set is worth about $26 which is a smidgen under inflation.   I suggest buying it only for the diorama elements.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,978: January 11, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,977: Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI Commemorative DVD Collection
Clone Wars Cartoon Network / Tartakovsky Animated Series Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 34542 No.     34577
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsabers, display stand, Commander Cody, General Grievous 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: Sooooo Obi-Wan Kenobi.  It's the previous one with a new head.  That's really all you need to know, but hey, we have space.   The figure has jointed shoulders and a jointed neck which allow you to pose him with both hands on his weapon, but little else.  It's effectively a nice statue at a low price.  The detail on the head is a decent translation of the 2D design into the third dimension, and given the reasonably low price of this set it's not like you're going to feel ripped off.  It's not a bad figure, but it doesn't deliver that much in the way of a different experience.  If you like what you see, you should get it.  If not... well, the rest of the set is pretty sweet, so get it anyway.

Collector's Notes: Cheap on eBay! Get it before people realize what they're missing!

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,977: January 10, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,976: Green R9 Series Astromech Droid

R9-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Green 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: Yeah, it's time to examine the Green R9-Series Astromech Droid because I've got columns to fill and deadlines to meet.  Do you know that because of this and my other Figure of the Day column, I have to write 2 columns 5 days per week minimum just to keep up?  It's true!  That's why some of these look like they're kinda rushed.  I got quotas to meet before bedtime.

This one is a green redeco of the red and blue ones.  That's pretty much it.  The green plastic has a decent amount of detail but the sculpting is a little rough still.  The green plastic absorbs some of the texture, so the roughness isn't as noticeable unless the righting is just right.  I tossed the green dome on a white body with green panels, because they ran out of green bodies with white panels.  The figure has similar articulation to other such figures (arms, feet, neck, removable third leg) and can be customized pretty much any way you wish.  Kids are cobbling them together in weird combinations that would give 8-year-old me some sort of a fit, so don't do that.  It's just not right.  The figure looks really neat though, and the green dome is one of the better colors for it.  Extra special thanks to our pal Shannon for helping us to obtain these figures!

Collector's Notes: Not many of these show up on eBay so expect to pay a hefty premium if you can't get it at the theme park.  Also whip out a calculator, because admission to Disney Hollywood Studios is like $100 and the amount of time and energy you spend in line may not be worth it compared to the eBay buyer premium.  Just a suggestion.  For the time being, Disney Hollywood Studios is the only place you can buy an R9 of any color.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,976: January 9, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,975: Battle Droid (Red)

BATTLE DROID  Red Edition
Discover the Force Movie Heroes Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 36563 No.  37751  
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #MH04
Includes: Stand, card, die, blaster, firing blaster, projectile
Action Feature: Removable limbs
Retail: $8.99
Availability: January 2012
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: Battle droids are the perfect soldiers - programmed to fight without hesitation and deployed in vast numbers that overwhelm opponents.  Individually, though, their limited cognitive ability makes them vulnerable when they go up against  skilled Jedi who can outwit and outmaneuver them.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' photo dump.

Commentary: There's a weird place in which some figures dwell, as solid concepts with decent executions but a fatal flaw like a bad eye deco job or a terrible price.  The Battle Droid is one of those horribly overpriced figures, I'm unsure if it was a poor execution due to factory communication or something else.  In 2010 and 2011, you could get a 2-pack of Saga Legends Battle Droids for about eight bucks, and each one had 12 or so joints.  And two stands.  And two guns.  And two backpacks.  It was more than we deserved for the price, and in 2007-2009 we frequently saw 2-packs of 6-jointed Battle Droids for $7, which was really good too.  That's why this one, at $9 or $10, was something of a stunner.  Ten bucks?  For a redeco of a six-jointed figure?

Anyway.  This figure is very similar to the 2007 Saga Legends Maroon Battle Droids 2-pack, with some minor batch differences.  If anything, I'd say the 2012 one is a smidgen redder, but it could be my imagination.  The big difference is the gun, so if you got the 2012 Tan version of #MH04 you could probably skip the red one.  I'm really not sure WHY Hasbro did a red one, as the red one was produced second and the whole Phantom Menace theme makes sense for tan droids.  Red ones are in Attack of the Clones, but whatever.  It's here.  Get one if you want!

Collector's Notes: Like the clone we looked at yesterday, ask questions before buying if you can't buy it in person.  It and a red redeco share the same SKU, but oddly have different Galactic Battle Game cards.  Were cost not an issue and this was a $5 or a $6 figure, it would be good enough for the asking price.  At $9, it's only advised that you buy this if you are some sort of archivist or toy columnist.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,975: January 8, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,974: Clone Trooper

CLONE TROOPER ARMY Army of the Republic
Clone Wars Deluxe Figures
Item No.: Asst. 84845 No. 84987
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Non-removable rifle, binoculars, 2 more figures
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Fall 2003
Appearances: Attack of the Clones, Clone Wars

Bio:  Virtually indistinguishable from one another, Clone Troopers are identical in physical appearance, mental capability, and stamina. Part of a clone army, they are grown in the cloning facilities of Tipoca City, a luminescent city of industry emerging from the raging seas of Kamino. Although clone troopers share the same modified genetic code, their genetic structure has been altered to make them less independent than their genetic host, and their growth has been accelerated to twice the normal rate of a human. Grown and trained specifically for military combat, the Clone Army was mysteriously commissioned ten years earlier.   (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' photo dump.

Commentary: The Clone Trooper army men were a really nifty idea from 2003: 3 simple figures for ten bucks.  This will never, ever happen again.   This was also a rare instance where a whopping five variants shared a single SKU, so you really didn't know which version(s) you were getting if you bought a case or ordered by mail.  They all had the same SKU and UPC, so it was probably the most miserable time to try to complete a set.  I know there were certain variants, like this one, I never once saw at retail.  This particular clone is an all-white trooper with special binoculars, and was the most uncommon mold of the 5 sets.  (A yellow version also exists.)  It looks cool because it has a little bit more "action" sculpted into the figure, but it is posed awkwardly enough that you probably won't want to futz with it too much.  It's the perfect filler for your Republic Gunships, or for diorama fodder.   It was a really clever idea to infuse the then-starved Clone Trooper Market which suffered through only 3 Clone Trooper action figures in 2002.  3!  Can you imagine a movie year with only three Clone Troopers? That's crazy.

A display stand is advised for this one, and while it isn't the best-ever Clone Trooper it's certainly a nifty one and a noble experiment.  I would love to see these cheap, barely-poseable figures added as a bonus item if/when manufacturing costs allow, as they make great filler in vehicles so I can use my other figures for other needs.    They sold pretty well too if memory served, although it wasn't uncommon to see many of one flavor and none of others depending on the city in which you dwelled.

Collector's Notes: The figure isn't necessarily rare, but due to how people sell figures it can be tough to locate as simply finding the correct name on eBay or Amazon, plus the right photo with the listing, can prove tricky.  Ask questions before buying if you can't purchase it in person.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,974: January 7, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,973: Obi-Wan Kenobi

OBI-WAN KENOBI Climbing Action!
The Clone Wars Basic Action Figures
Item No.: Asst. 37290 No. 37305
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: CW12
Includes: Lightsaber, display stand, backpack
Action Feature: Climbing Backpack, kind of dull actually
Retail: $8.99
Availability: April 2012
Appearances: Clone Wars TV series

Bio:  Obi-Wan Kenobi uses climbing gear to infiltrate a Separatist stronghold. Even the strong, agile Jedi Master sometimes needs help to overcome heavily fortified structures. Using the gear, he ascends the sheer, towering wall that surrounds the Separatist facility, and quickly takes out the battle droids that he encounters inside.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' photo dump.

Commentary: The Obi-Wan Kenobi animated figures don't always look exactly like the TV show, but they're getting much better now.  This one is skinnier and more angular, which is a nice departure from the more rounded (but more articulated) debut in 2008.  Based on the latest redesigns of the character, he looks pretty slick.  Check out them pointed eyebrows, the assured demeanor, and the nice deco.  There's not much dirt here, and the articulation is sadly a little bit reduced from before.   Deco is getting better as the wrist communicator is getting some paint, but well, you get 10 joints.  So it's a toss-up.  I was happy with the previous "new" version, but this one makes for a better overall toy.   The one point of deco missing, or so I feel, is the lightsaber.  The hilt is all silver and lacks the black or gold we've seen on other recent releases, plus it's a little pale in the blue area.  As toys go it feels sturdier and looks better than other releases, but we're in the midst of a tug-of-war between people who feel these should be toys, and those who feel they should be collectibles.  I don't think Hasbro can decide right now, but the figure certainly looks good.  I'm sure packaged collectors will love it, and kids will love it, but the opened collectors... I'm not so sure.  I like how it looks a lot, but I haven't actually spent much time playing with it.  I could blame that on Glyos though, those have been hanging out by my couch for most of 2012.

Collector's Notes: Cheap! Nobody wants him!  Get him while the getting is good, kids.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,973: January 4, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,972: Imperial Navy Commando

IMPERIAL NAVY COMMANDO The Force Unleashed: Sith & Imperial Troopers
The Legacy Collection Toys R Us Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 33259 No. 33261
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, backpack
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $39.99
Availability: August 2011
Appearances: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed video game

Bio:    The navy commando officer leads a squad that consists of several troopers, a sergeant and a medic.   (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' former kitchen.

Commentary: The Imperial Navy Commando came in a set which, frankly, is kind of annoying.  It's a nice figure and a cool design, but it comes form the lesser ports of the Force Unleashed games, with last-gen exclusive characters that a lot of people flat-out will not recognize.  You get 14 points of articulation on this all-new sculpt, which was also shared with a Commander figure in the very same set.  Hasbro put a little extra deco into this figure on the back, under the backpack, where you can't see it.  Smart.   It's still cool, though, and is a fun hybrid of Stormtroopers, Scout Troopers, and various concept designs.  Do I detect a whiff of McQuarrie's early Snowtrooper?  I think I do.  It has a Clone gun for some reason, but hey, it's cool.  The chunky working holster is nice too.

The level of detail isn't bad, but there's not a lot of painted detail needed here.  It's a white figure with black deco, and Hasbro is pretty good at making these nowadays.  Get it if you can, it's neat and looks like it fits in with many of your other toys.  What more can you ask for?  Aside better pricing, I mean.

Collector's Notes: The set is expensive now, but was odd when it first hit too.  Just Darth Phobos would sell for $30 on eBay, and the whole set was $40.  Y'all so bad at math.  Now it's a lot more, so consider pricing out the set versus individual figures and be smart about it... it's probably more sensible to buy the set and sell off the spares.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,972: January 3, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,971: Owen Lars

OWEN LARS Visionaries
The Unnamed Post-Legacy Collection San Diego Comic-Con Exclusive Comic Pack
Item No.: No. 91773
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, companion Darth Maul figure, comic "anthology" reprint
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: July 2010
Appearances: Visionaries comic book

Bio: Owen Lars fights Darth Maul to protect the life of his young nephew, Luke Skywalker.  The Sith apprentice has returned from the dead to hunt down Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Jedi who destroyed his life. Owen's quiet moisture farm on Tatooine becomes the scene of a deadly battle between the forces of good and evil.  (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' old neighborhood, night.

Commentary: This figure (and indeed, this entire set and the comic which inspired it) are more interesting historically right now than they were in 2010.  Owen Lars is not what made it interesting, although he's pretty great.  The figure was an all-new or at least mostly-new sculpt, giving us a version of Owen from about a solid 15 years prior to the original film.  His outfit is a mix of prequel and trilogy elements, and because of this there's a sliding scale for authenticity.  I really like the figure overall, although it sort of sticks out as an odd duck as it doesn't really belong to any category in the line.  He looks great but other than Maul, it's not like there are many other characters from the story in toy form.   He's super-articulated, painted well, and has a nice cloth coat.  I don't have much reason to complain other than I don't have an aging Obi-Wan Kenobi or younger Luke to go with it.  It's a nice design, and with a little paint I bet it could make an acceptable-to-great 1977 Owen Lars.

Collector's Notes: The set seems to have finally gained real interest, $40-$80 on eBay, and Amazon prices are right in that range too.  I blame The Clone Wars for reusing the Maul design from this comic, people like it and now are willing to shell out some cash.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,971: January 2, 2013

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,970: R4 Series Astromech Droid - Green

R4-SERIES ASTROMECH DROID Green Dome with White 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: Now in green (again), the R4-series Astromech Droid domes at Star Tours look a lot like R4-J1 from a few years ago.  I included the dome in the comparison to show there were indeed unique deco changes, as the 2008 Legacy Build-A-Droid has an "e" on the side and lots more damage and grit on his person, while the 2012 Disney release is clean, mostly white, and has something that looks more like an "A" or an "R".

It's OK.   The dome itself is just different enough to warrant your attention, and has the hole in it for hats if you're so inclined.   It's neat, it's green, and you could probably skip it if you're short on time, money, or those awful limits in line at the theme parks.

Collector's Notes: Still a pain to get.  That's normal, sadly.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,970: January 1, 2013