Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,409: Koffi Arana

KOFFI ARANA Purge
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87530
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #13
Includes: Lightsaber, sword, flying severed hand of Darth Vader
Action Feature: Sword may be planted in chest
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Fall 2007
Appearances: Purge comic book

Bio: The Jedi are on the run or in hiding after Order 66 wiped out most of the venerable order. Bultar Swan has a plan to crush the new Empire: destroy Darth Vader and thus weaken the Emperor and his fledgling rule. She brings together a handful of Jedi on the planet Kessel and leaks a false rumor that Obi-Wan Kenobi will be there, knowing Vader will take the bait... and the Jedi will be waiting for him. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' desk.

Commentary: This set went from being a good seller to a pegwarmer pretty quickly, despite the Purge comic inside being something of a hot item at the time. Perhaps it was the characters-- Koffi Arana is relatively unknown despite actually appearing in the movies (techinically), but not in this costume. The hotheaded Jedi wears unique armor for reasons I'm not quite clear on, but the design does allow for a really cool spoiler/action feature. Darth Vader's severed arm is included holding a sword, and you can plant that sword in a groove on Koffi's torso. Pretty sweet!

The figure is an accurate translation of the costume in the comic, complete with goofy red tassles and gaudy red accents. Hasbro recreated it nicely, but since it was during a period where not all figures had super articulation, you might find it "old." It's good though-- 12 points of articulation and cut elbows are better than nothing at all, and when this figure rolled out in 2007 this line did wonders to bolster our comic book character ranks. He isn't as fancy as modern figures, but he also was packaged with Bultar Swan (also a new sculpt) and a full-size comic book reprint for ten bucks. Complain all you want, but these sets really got you your money's worth. Very few other characters from the orignal Purge comic saw release, but it's nice to see that Hasbro picked one that got stabbed through the chest. That's pretty hardcore, and it's not like a lot of lines have the balls to put in a toy aimed at all ages where somebody is impaled on a sharp object. Kudos, Hasbro, for trying something different.

Collector's Notes: If the Kmarts nearest you really suck, you might still have these around, and the price might be higher than issue price because the assortment (87504) shipped from 2007-2010 and was increased in price during that time. (This is kinda complicated, but this is a problem that happens when you don't discontinue old SKUs-- dead weight and unnecessary price increases.) Because it hung around forever, you can probably score this for under $10 if you do some looking around.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,409: November 8, 2010

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,491: Blackhole Stormtrooper

BLACKHOLE STORMTROOPER and Blackhole
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs Wave 7
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 89780
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #13
Includes: Blackhole "figure," torture droid, blaster, smoke stand
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: March 2010
Appearances: Star Wars newspaper strips

Bio: Shadow stormtroopers capture Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia on Vorzyd V. The Rebels are on the planet, also known as the Gambler's World, to stop the evil Empire's main source of income. After kidnapping the Rebels, the stormtroopers speak with Blackhole, the Imperial Intelligence Director, who orders the prisoners interrogated by an IT-O Droid. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' former apartment's back yard.

Commentary: Hasbro made a killing repainting Clone Troopers so it only makes sense they applied it to Blackhole Stormtroopers, the first-ever major paint variant on the standard armor to be seen outside the films. The figure is, sadly, not painted at all like in the comics where the trooper had black armor and very distinctive silver lenses-- so really, the authentic version of a Blackhole Stormtrooper (as represented by Funko, Gentle Giant, and other licensors) has yet to make it out in any form from Hasbro. It's more of a dark blue color, with blue lenses and a removable helmet-- presumably since that was the mold available to Hasbro's factory, the characters in the comics left their helmets on.

The base figure is the 2007 Stormtrooper, which was based on the 2004 Vintage Stormtrooper but with a new head, helmet, and torso. This is a nice figure and a neat set, but ultimately you may find it more irritating than fun-- basically for $15, you get a trooper and two very large accessories in the form of Blackhole and a torture droid. It's a little expensive for what you got at retail-- it's still a neat curiosity and one of very, very few figure packs made after the newspaper comic strips.

Collector's Notes: This set came and went really fast, but its secondary market value remains on the low side, close to retail. It was meant to be a 2009 release, but only one "2009"-style packaging wave of comic packs made it out in all of 2009. This set was seen briefly online at etailers as well as in physical Target stores, plus there were a few odd sightings elsewhere. This was part of the final wave of these figures to hit the mass market, and the 87504 SKU was pretty miserably managed by stores and Hasbro over its 3-year run. Basic figures get a new number to flush out old product-- so do Battle Packs and vehicles-- but comic packs were stuck with the same number, effectively telling stores that these were the same things for several years rather than rebooting every 12-18 months.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,491: March 2, 2011

Figure of the Day: Day 1,105: Luke Skywalker (Dark Empire II)

LUKE SKYWALKER with Clone Emperor
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87745
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #12
Includes: Lightsaber, removable cloak, additional figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $13.99
Availability: January 2009
Appearances: Dark Empire II (comic series)

Image: Adam Pawlus' TV tray.

Bio: Luke Skywalker has discovered the existence of another Jedi, helping him further his goal of reestablishing the Jedi Knights. While he makes plans to go to Ossus to locate important Jedi artifacts, Emperor Palpatine is reborn in the body of another clone, and he makes immediate plans to crush the Alliance and the fledgling Jedi Knight. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: One of the first figures I did for this column was Luke Skywalker from the first Dark Empire series, which I assumed they would never revisit in any form. And here we are! Colored differently and completely resculpted, the now-aging Jedi Master was represented as a much more action-packed figure, which is really out of character for the modern era. The crazy flowing capes and blowing robes were very 2002, so it was surprising to see the style repeated here. The giant cape piece is removable by sliding it over Luke's arms, although the figure looks extremely dull without it. As such, I suggest you leave it on.

This is a figure that really doesn't benefit from its super-articulated frame. What good are 14 points of articulation if a garment prevents the figure from taking advantage of these extra pieces? Hasbro's design for Luke makes a better statue than a toy, which is too bad because cloth robes or perhaps a slightly more understated piece would allow the figure to look good in anything but an action pose. Also, the resulting figure is unusually wide, making it tricky to store in most carry cases. Thankfully it looks good, with a slightly older looking face and lots of rings sculpted around his costume. He certainly looks like someone who could take down an AT-AT with the Force, which is good, because that stuff goes down in the comics.

Collector's Notes: Love Dark Empire? Well, here ya go. This is probably as good as the outfit will look in terms of modern sculpting, but I really do prefer the original release with its stylized lightsaber, blue highlights, and far stranger hair. Oh, and a less insane pose for his robes, that's a plus. Still, it's nice, and you can probably still find it at retail if you look hard enough.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,105: September 8, 2009

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,450: Darth Vader (Infinities)

DARTH VADER and Princess Leia
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87699
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #11
Includes: Lightsaber, companion Leia figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Fall 2008
Appearances: Return of the Jedi: Infinities

Bio: The Infinities series explores tantalizing "what if" stories about what might have happened to Star Wars characters if events had occurred differently. In this tale, the rescue of Han Solo from Jabba's palace fails, so Princess Leia goes after Boba Fett in order to save Han. The climactic events on the second Death Star also take a different turn that sees Darth Vader changing his allegiances and fighting alongside his children. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' desk.

Commentary: Fact: it is impossible to give Darth Vader the "black repaint" treatment. Solution: white Darth Vader. Taken from what may be the most famous panel from a largely unread comic, this figure offers a hypothetical figure based on the notion if Darth Vader returned to the side of good and the Emperor ran off to cause trouble in the galaxy. A neat idea, sure, but not exactly an essential figure. In 2008, this 2004 Vintage sculpt was a little outdated but hey, at least the helmet stayed on-- which is more than most figures of the character since 2005 can claim.

Overall, it's OK-- the head can tilt back, and there's enough articulation in here that you won't be sorry you bought it, although it's obvious some joints are just not there. For example, no ankles, and only swivel elbows will remind you that this is an older mold. He'll have problems sitting due to his codpiece hanging off his belt, so really, leave this one in the package or expect him to do a lot of standing. This isn't a figure for piloting vehicles, but given the relative obscurity of the design odds are you won't be playing with it much anyway. It's a solid idea and certainly different enough to be worth a look, but your love of the movies should dictate if you shell out the money for this one.

Collector's Notes: This was not a great seller-- you may be able to find it at a store near you today if you keep your eyes peeled.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,450: January 4, 2011

Figure of the Day: Day 897: Ganner Krieg

GANNER KRIEG and Antares Draco
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87696
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #05
Includes: Lightsaber, comic, Antares Draco figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: July 2008
Appearances: Star Wars: Legacy comic books

Bio: Imperial Knights Antares Draco and Ganner Krieg go on an unauthorized mission to save Marasiah Fel, the daughter of Emperor Roan Fel. The Sith hope to capture the deposed emperor by threatening Sia's life, but Roan refuses to risk a rescue attempt. Draco cannot stand by and let the woman he loves fall into the hands of the Sith, even though he knows he and Krieg will be walking into a trap. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's tables.

Commentary: Hasbro is king of reusing molds these days. Ganner Krieg comes with and shares almost his entire construction with Antares Draco, an Imperial Knight from the distant future of the Star Wars galaxy. Armed with a white (clear) lightsaber and the Force, this figure has a cloth cape with hood, a big ol' orange ponytail, and red armor, it's really not a bad action figure. The reason for his production seems somewhat cynical-- Hasbro cranked out two figures for the price of 1.3-- but it's a good one, and for Legacy fans, about as good a place to kick off the line as any other. (Except Darth Krayt, who would have been nice.) Short of being able to hang a lightsaber on his belt, Ganner has it all-- articulation, detail, paint, and a decent likeness. He looks like he came right out of a comic book, and a pretty good one at that. No matter your focus on collecting, this is an easy figure to enjoy. However, if you're era-specific, this one falls way outside both trilogies and may be one you wish to avoid. It's one of Hasbro's best sculpting efforts this year, so I'd steer you toward it-- if you like this sort of thing. The comic it comes with is pretty much worth it by itself, so the entire package is certainly worth your... whatever it costs you this week.

Collector's Notes: New, and reasonably easy to find at this time. You might have to hit a couple of stores, but this set seems to be out and about.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 897: November 20, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 1,230: Princess Leia (Infinities Sniper)

PRINCESS LEIA and Darth Vader
The Clone Wars Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87699
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #11
Includes: Sniper rifle, pistol, poncho, belt, companion Darth Vader figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Fall 2008
Appearances: Return of the Jedi: Infinities

Bio: The Infinities series explores tantalizing "what if" stories about what might have happened to Star Wars characters if events had occurred differently. In this tale, the rescue of Han Solo from Jabba's palace fails, so Princess Leia goes after Boba Fett in order to save Han. The climactic events on the second Death Star also take a different turn that sees Darth Vader changing his allegiances and fighting alongside his children. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam's big Millennium Falcon.

Commentary: Nothing was really more painful than Hasbro's using the very expensive "Vintage" figure molds in comic packs, where you would get two for the price of one. This Princess Leia figure with sniper gear was originally a $13 "Vintage" figure from the movie, but had her hands and head redesigned to more accurately represent the Rebel sniper from Return of the Jedi: Infinities comic books. She can still stand and sit, and is loaded with articulation. Slightly recolored, she wouldn't really work as a perfect substitute for the movie version, but she may be close enough if you have a spare Endor helmet laying around in your parts drawers. I personally think this one is a better looking figure than the movie version, as the coloring is a big more interesting to look at and the gloves give her a more action-ready feel. I like this set, but if you're all Leia-ed out you may not feel the same way.

Collector's Notes: No reissues and limited interest from fans made this a marginal release. The white Darth Vader she's packaged with is largely the selling point as a curiosity more than anything else.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,230: March 2, 2010

Figure of the Day: Day 891: Mara Jade

MARA JADE Heir to the Empire #5
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Pack Figures
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87522
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #10
Includes: Blaster, hat, lightsaber, Luke with accessories
Action Feature: Removable hat, blaster fits in holster
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Summer 2007
Appearances: Heir to the Empire

Bio: Five years have passed since the Battle of Endor. Luke Skywalker is the first Jedi in the fledgling Republic, but the dark legacy of Emperor Palpatine still threatens him. The smuggler Mara Jade has long wanted to find Luke and kill him because of his role in the death of her former master, the Emperor. Her chance to strike arrives at last, but events cause her to join forces with him to escape Imperial forces. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: A desk.

Commentary: While some fans maligned this figure and her companion's lack of articulation. But what do you expect for $10? The nearly-perfect Mara Jade figure was a huge step up from her 1998 release, with a better head, improved articulation, and for some reason, an empurpled costume. (Typically, she's seen in black or very dark blue.) This release has ball-jointed knees and shoulders, with normal hips, wrists, swivel elbows, a normal waist, and a ball-jointed head. She looks pretty good, but obviously ankle joints and ball-jointed elbows would have been nice additions since, most likely, this is going to be the last Mara for another nine years. Her lightsaber's grip is really, really rubbery. Like, crazy rubbery. You might find some are greatly distorted on purchase, but they're pretty simple to straighten out. If you want a Mara figure, this is the best one your money can buy. That is, until the future, when Hasbro goes back to the well for another release.

Collector's Notes: There are a few Mara variants, but they're uncommon. The neck ball-and-socket was retooled early on, resulting in some figures being able to keep together easier than others. Also, this set has a variant lightsaber to watch for-- Mara sometimes comes with a green blade. I've never seen this in person, and would love to buy one.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 891: November 12, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 1,364: Princess Leia

PRINCESS LEIA with Prince Xizor
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87687
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #8
Includes: Gown, blaster, Xizor figure, comic book
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: Summer 2008
Appearances: Shadows of the Empire

Bio: As Leia struggles to save the Alliance from being crushed by the Empire, she learns that bounty hunters are after Luke. She infiltrates Black Sun to find out why that crime syndicate wants Luke dead. The leader of Black Sun is Prince Xizor, who sees Luke as a way to get his revenge upon Vader and, at the same time, gain favor with the Emperor. Her mission is in jeaopardy when she meets Xizor and finds herself unable to resist the prince's strange power. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' old desk.

Commentary: As figures I never expected to see go, this Princess Leia certainly made the list. This is basically from a scene in which Leia tries to make Xizor think he's gonna get some, and then knees him in the balls. Truly, a great toy for kids, right? Well, we have her, and space bedroom wear is just as goofy as you can hope. If there's one thing that does it for me, it's headbands! (Actually, no, not really.) This Leia has more articulation than she can handle, and the ankle joints make her legs look a little chunky. She lacks elbows, but other than that is a pretty robust figure in terms of movement. In short, your reasons for buying this figure are "do you love Leia figures" and "do you need a new Xizor", the answer to both I assume to be "yes" and "sure, why not." The detail on the figure is OK, but it's not really an amazing release given what else Hasbro has been releasing in the past four or five years. It's worth buying and certainly fits the bill of a good modern figure, just not as a great one.

Collector's Notes: This figure may be available at a store near you still-- it was not a hit. Don't pay a premium for this one, if anything try to get it for under $10 because it's just that common.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,364: September 6, 2010

Figure of the Day: Day 1,154: Deena Shan

DEENA SHAN in Rebel Commando Suit
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87773
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #15
Includes: Blaster, Luke, comic book
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $11.99
Availability: January 2009
Appearances: Star Wars Rebellion comic books

Bio: Luke receives a message from his old friend Janek Sunber, a lieutenant in the Imperial Army, saying he wants to join the Rebellion. Everyone thinks it's a trap except Luke. The Jedi goes on an unauthorized mission to find Sunber and is joined by Deena Shan, who is looking for adventure, and a chance to prove her worth. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's carpet.

Commentary: There aren't a ton of comic book characters getting original sculpts, but it seems Hasbro really likes Deena Shan from the Star Wars: Rebellion and Star Wars: Empire comic book series. Why? I don't know. But here she is, in some skin-tight suit. While photographing the figure, she fell over, and I ended up noticing that Hasbro went out of their way to sculpt a really well-defined butt for her. Like, wow. You will be impressed. Luke, on the other hand, has zero definition. If you're going to spend some time making a nice ass, I think Hasbro's designers put their eggs in the right basket, so to speak.

Deena is essentially super-articulated and has a holster for her blaster. She can sit or stand, and the black suit with white, copper, and blue markings looks like it came out of the comic. Her hair and makeup were exaggerated slightly, which is probably better than understating it-- the last thing you want is a blonde man-boy with boobs. (Or maybe you do want that, who am I to judge?) The resulting figure is pretty good, and as she comes in a set with two newly sculpted heroes, it's not a bad buy. If you can find it, that is.

Collector's Notes: This set is newish. It just got repackaged and you shouldn't have too much trouble getting one.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,154: November 16, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,083: Clone Emperor Palpatine

CLONE EMPEROR with Luke Skywalker
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87745
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #12
Includes: Lightsaber, removable cloak, holocron, lightning bolt
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $13.99
Availability: January 2009
Appearances: Dark Empire II (comic series)

Image: Adam Pawlus' barbeque.

Bio: Luke Skywalker has discovered the existence of another Jedi, helping him further his goal of reestablishing the Jedi Knights. While he makes plans to go to Ossus to locate important Jedi artifacts, Emperor Palpatine is reborn in the body of another clone, and he makes immediate plans to crush the Alliance and the fledgling Jedi Knight. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: While few fans were actively begging for a new Clone Emperor Palpatine figure, Hasbro went ahead and did one. And they did a freaking amazing job, too. The 1998 release was pretty good, but this one ups the ante by tacking on tons of articulation, lots of accessories, and a fully realized costume underneath the main costume. You don't get that often. Were this figure released as a basic carded release, odds are Hasbro wouldn't have packed so much stuff with him. It's really a good use of the comic pack format, including extra bits and pieces in addition to a comic book reprint.

Under the cloak is a creepy decaying old man with blue liver spots and presumably some form of electrical tape. (Kinky.) The coloring on the skin really does look like it came out of a comic book, with big blue and greenish circles that give the key villain of the franchise an especially otherworldly look. The design benefitted from a few years of information, for example, what Palpatine looked like when he was younger. The stylized comic art of Cam Kennedy can be interpreted in a variety of ways, and it's good to see Hasbro not making chunky, literal interpretations of the characters but rather take a few colors here and a costume there while synthesizing something that would look more at home in the modern movie-styled line. You know, like what they didn't do with Tobbi and Fenn.

This figure is a very nicely done release and an example of how far Hasbro has come since 1998. That original Clone Palpatine was a high mark for a lot of us, so seeing a release like this incorporate soft goods and plastic armor in new and interesting ways shows that Hasbro actually not only learned a whole lot about how to do the line even better, but has the power to surprise us.

Collector's Notes: This one seems to be done for now-- if you missed it, go get it. Hasbro has been good about rereleasing a number of comic packs as they go forward, so you might have a chance to get one in new packaging down the road. I wouldn't assume that you would, of course, so go ahead and grab this one if you see it.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,083: August 7, 2009

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,467: Sigel Dare

SIGEL DARE & Darth Krayt
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87972
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #08
Includes: Lightsaber, cloth cape, Darth Krayt figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $13.99
Availability: September 2009
Appearances: Star Wars: Legacy comic books

Bio: Darth Krayt is not pleased; Admiral Stazi of the Galactic Alliance Remnant has stolen the Sith Lord's powerful new warship Imperious. Unknown to Stazi, Imperial Knights Sigel Dare and Treis Sinde have sabotaged the ship, hoping to ruin Krayt's plans. Now Dare must warn Stazi before the bombs planted on the ship explode! (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' former back yard.

Commentary: If you have a Sigel Dare in your collection, it's probably because you bought Darth Krayt and she just happened to be in the package. The third Imperial Knight action figure, the character isn't particularly memorable especially compared to Azlyn "Who Here Watched Irresponsible Captain Tylor?" Rae. After getting two Imperial Knights to help kick off the Legacy comic figures, it sort of sucks that another slot was taken up by a third one with non-matching red painted armor and mostly newly sculpted parts. Were she a head swap, I could understand her being made, but with so many recognizable (or at least modestly interesting) Sith and Jedi and smugglers in the series, seeing her paired with the hugely popular Darth Krayt was something of a drag. Sure, Krayt could carry the set, but seeing as the comic pack line seems to have limped to its end, well, sheesh.

The overall figure is, on her own, pretty great. The head sculpt isn't bad, and the deco (while not perfect) does a good job of emphasizing and exaggerating detail so that it looks decent on the toy shelf. A little eyeliner never hurts. Her metallic red armor looks exquisite, and if this sort of deco were applied to more Transformers toys Hasbro could probably get away with jacking them up a few more bucks. Very well done. She is indeed super-articulated with the full 14 joints and as many ball joints as you can reasonably expect from your average action figure. The cloth cape, a nice touch, sits well behind the figure and the entire ensemble is rounded out by a clear lightsaber. In short, the figure's main problem is that she exists and another character does not, and admittedly that's a pretty stupid thing for me to complain about. If you like the design, you really should make sure you get her-- and if not? Well, too bad, you have to get her if you want Darth Krayt.

Collector's Notes: Since this two-pack appeared near the end of the line for comic packs and has one of the most important villains in the comic series, it's going to cost you. While it did ship through early 2010, it's gone now, and it's $20 or more on eBay. As such, start saving or prepare to go without. This figure (and her companion) have little chance of a reissue given Hasbro's decreasing interest in the Expanded Universe in the immediate future.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,467: January 27, 2011

Figure of the Day: Day 1,065: Borsk Fey'lya

BORSK FEY'LYA & Wedge Antilles
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87747
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Blaster, Wedge figure
Action Feature: Working holster
Retail: $12.99
Availability: January 2009
Appearances: Rogue Squadron Comic Books

Bio: Wedge Antiles and the rest of Rogue Squadron are enjoying some R&R, but trouble soon ends their break. Acting-Emperor Sate Pestage is captured when the Empire discovers he's made a deal with the Rebel Alliance. Rogue Squadron is tapped to rescue Pestage, but Provisional Council member Borsk Fey'lya is hostile to the plan. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: TV tray.

Commentary: After first appearing in the first three Star Wars novels of the big 1991 relaunch, it's about time we got a Borsk Fey'lya figure. The Bothan race has been pictured in a few different ways, and now that we have an action figure this is probably how they're going to be from now on. Depending on where you sit, this is either really exciting or a case of "this would have been awesome 15 years ago." The fact that we now have a physical representation of an alien species first named in 1983 is pretty awesome, but what are you going to do with it? Is he going to stand around and be a dick to your other figures?

So either you're jazzed to see the character, or you aren't-- that's going to be your main motivation to buy this one. As a figure it's one of those decent-but-not-spectacular releases with 14 points of articulation, but the elbows are swivels and the legs can't really easily sit. Borsk's face looks sort of old and not exactly action-packed, but he does have a blaster which I suppose makes him a slightly more combat-friendly toy. Collectors and hardcore novel fans will likely want to pick this one up, it's not a lot of fun to play with. It does look nice, and it's a new alien, but after 1,000+ figures sometimes I can get a little jaded.

Collector's Notes: You can probably still buy this one if you look hard enough. A repackaged version should be hitting real soon, possibly already if you live in the right area.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,065: July 14, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 842: Grand Admiral Thrawn

GRAND ADMIRAL THRAWN and Talon Karrde
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87688
Number: #09
Includes: Ysalamiri, Talon Karrde figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $12.99
Availability: August 2008
Appearances: Heir to the Empire

Bio: It's five years after the destruction of the second Death Star. The Rebel Alliance has established a New Republic, but its existence is threatened by the old Empire. Grand Admiral Thrawn command the remnants of the Imperial fleet and is putting together a plan that will destroy the new goverment. Thrawn contacts Talon Karrde, a man with valuable information that Thrawn needs in order for his plan to succeed. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' Imperial Shuttle (the 2006 one).

Commentary: While art has shown the character of Grand Admiral Thrawn in a few different costumes over the years, both action figures (including this one) show the high-ranking Imperial without the yellowish gold epaulets on his shoulders. Even though this super-articulated figure is pretty awesome, it'd be nice to see that. Or some sort of backpack for his little lizard friend to feed off of. But you can tell that from the picture.

Thrawn is an update to a figure from 1998, and for the most part he's pretty good. While it's easy to fault the figure for what they could have done, it's really best to just look at what it is they did give us. The good news is we have a modern sculpt, complete with 14 points of articulation, fantastic detail, a proper rank badge, and everything you would expect out of a decent individual action figure. Except for a blaster. The details are all pretty great, from the slick, shiny boots to the gloves. Oh right-- they sculpted his hands as gloves, you can see the wrinkles on them. The packaging even has his hands painted white, to match his gloves. And the figure itself? His gloves are the same color as his skin. Oops. Maybe we have a potential variant here, but it's more likely this will be the only way the figure is offered. It's not bad, it's just always a shame when a detail of some significance is painted incorrectly, like the snow clumps on Chewbacca or when Luke's gloved and flesh hands were swapped on a 2003 figure. It happens, and with as many figures as Hasbro produces, it's a wonder it doesn't happen more frequently.

The other detail that's something of a downer here is the boots. And keep in mind by picking on part of his boots and his hands, that means the rest of the figure is perfect-- one can only gush about a figure's greatness for so long, but it's easy to dwell on a minor hiccup for long periods of time. Due to the white plastic used for the uniform, much white plastic is exposed and left unpainted around the ball-jointed ankles. For once, it would have been better had Hasbro elected not to give the figure ankle articulation, or if they used black plastic to mold the feet. Other than that, it's pretty awesome-- the head is good, the uniform fits, the boots are glossy, and his little pal is based on the comic appearances. (Or close to them-- the ysalamir has two legs and a tail, not four legs and a tail like in some other art.)

Collector's Notes: In 1998, the first Thrawn figure was in short supply due to a transitional period in the line. Today, it should be widely available and it comes with a reprint of Heir to the Empire #1, which has some of the best Star Wars comic art in the entire Dark Horse run. This set should be added to your collection without question.

Day 842: September 4, 2008

Figure of the Day: Day 374: R2-D2

R2-D2 Marvel Star Wars #4
30th Anniversary Star Wars Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87518
Number: 6
Includes: Stormtrooper Luke action figure
Action Feature: Twist dome, leg retracts; lightup eye port
Retail: $10.99
Availability: April 2007
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Luke, Han, and Chewbacca have rescued Princess Leia - but now they have to escape from the Death Star! After being hunted by stormtroopers and narrowly escaping a crushing end in a garbage masher, the four are reunited with the droids and nearing the safety of the Millennium Falcon. But tragedy looms as they watch Darth Vader and Ben Kenobi face each other in a lightsaber duel to the death! (Taken from Hasbro's press materials.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' crappy photo studio.

Commentary: Ever since Hasbro released the awesome R4-G9 astromech droid in 2005, fans were saying "hey, when can we get R2-D2 based on this mold?" R4-G9, you see, had a place to plug in a holographic projection, a fully retractable third leg, wheels, and no pop-off panels or anything that might offend the eye. Early in 2006, Hasbro released photos showing such a figure, but instead re-released the "Vintage" R2-D2 with new dirt. So in 2007, we get two versions of R2-D2 based on the R4-G9 mold, and none of them are "normal"-- one is covered in flames, and this one is in comic book-inspired deco.

This one is pretty minimalistic. The dome is basically white. The legs are totally unpainted, with a few bits of color on the feet. There's a few odd bits and pieces painted in blue or metallic black, and the end result is some sort of pop art take on R2-D2. It looks like R2, and it's weird, sure. But due to the vast number of droids in Star Wars, this figure also functions well as a random, generic droid or as a good base for a custom figure-- after all, there's less paint to remove in many places. If you like this style of astromech mold (and odds are you already know if you do), this is a neat figure to buy. Totally worth it. So get one if you see it.

Collector's Notes: Having just been released, I'm actually FOTD-ing this figure just days after I got it and long before I ever saw one in the wilds of retail-- so I have no idea how popular it is yet. However, it comes packaged with a Stormtrooper Luke, so it should be snapped up by the kids if collectors don't buy it. It's a great set for the money, and you're probably only hurting yourself by not buying it. I mean, $11 for a Stormtrooper and a droid. You gotta get it. And hey Hasbro, if you're reading, when can I get my new modern Droids-style animated R2-D2?

Day 374: May 15, 2007

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,562: Clone Trooper Lieutenant

CLONE TROOPER LIEUTENANT and Clone Trooper
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs Wave 7
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 91772
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #10
Includes: Helmet, grappling hook, blaster, extra figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $14.99
Availability: March 2010
Appearances: Star Wars: Routine Valor Comic Book

Bio: Clone Troopers display more than "Routine Valor" during a battle on Sarrish. When their Republic gunship crashes near a dangerous gun emplacement, the clones launch an attack to capture the promontory on which the gun is anchored. Although the odds are against them, the troopers dont hesitate to take on the deadly challenge. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's old neighbor's yard. The fence was low.

Commentary: Part of the last retail wave of comic packs, this orange Clone Trooper Lieutenant takes pieces of a few existing figures and bashes them together into this unique ranking officer. The kama is similar to the ARC Trooper one. The helmet is similar to the Evolutions sculpt. And the gun? Well, that's new. The blaster rifle has a hole in the barrel which can hold a grappling hook. It doesn't fire or launch, but it just looks cool. The figure has modified 212th Battalion orange markings, and is a pretty clean design. There aren't a lot of dents or dirty marks, making this figure look somewhat pristine. I don't consider the figure a required purchase, but if you have a need for big armies with lots of variety you need to buy this set.

Collector's Notes: While this wave of comic packs tends to be somewhat expensive, this set doesn't seem to be too bad most of the time. If you can get it for roughly retail, you should. Otherwise, just settle for some basic orange clones, and you'll probably be just as happy. The most exciting thing about this one, for me, is the grapple gun.

Day 1,562: June 9, 2011

Figure of the Day: Day 1,006: Quinlan Vos

QUINLAN VOS & Commander Faie
The Legacy Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87774
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #13
Includes: Lightsaber, Blaster, Comic Book, Faie figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $11.99
Availability: Fall 2008
Appearances: Star Wars: Republic comic books

Bio: Quinlan Vos and Commander Faie are sent to Kashyyyk, the lush forest homeworld of the Wookiees, during the Clone Wars. The Jedi General and the clone commander have an uneasy relationship given their very different natures, and their ability to work together is made more precarious when the duplicitous Devaronian smuggler Vilmarh Grahrk appears and, predictably, stirs up plenty of trouble. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' laundry room.

Commentary: One of the most requested figures from fans in ages, Quinlan Vos was popular enough to warrant not one, but two action figures. This is the second release, and it retails the same basic articulation structure as the first. And the same legs. The head, arms, and upper body are new and more greatly resemble his look from most of the comic books. He retains the distinctive yellow facial stripe, the long hair, and the green lightsaber. His arms are super-articulated, but his legs are fairly weak-- the hips move, and they're restricted by the lower part of his costume. There are no knee or ankle joints, but there is a pretty swell holster for his blaster pistol.

For fans of the character, this is the most Jedi-like version of the character you can buy. It wouldn't surprise me if this were the last version of the figure we ever saw, particularly because he's been missing in the fiction since 2005. (Maybe he'll show up on television some day.) With this all in mind, you can rest easy knowing that when you pick up this figure, it's one of the best and probably not going to be "upgraded" any time soon.

Collector's Notes: This set is still available. Since it has a Clone, it's totally worth the purchase price.

Day 1,006: April 22, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,111: Baron Fel

BARON FEL with Derek "Hobbie" Klivian
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87529
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: 12
Includes: Blaster, chest console, chest armor, helmet, Hobbie Klivian
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Fall 2007
Appearances: Comics

Image: My floor.

Bio: Rogue Squadron is sent to Brentaal IV, an important trading planet held by Imperial forces. The elite squadron's mission is to take control of the planet, but to do that they will have to defeat Baron Fel's formidable 181st Imperial Squadron - no easy task even for "Hobbie" Klivian and the other ace pilots in Rogue Squadron. Unknown to them, they are being used by bickering Imperial forces in a devious plot to consolidate their power. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Commentary: One of the more popular characters among fans of Star Wars fiction is Baron Fel, one of few TIE fighter pilots to get a name and any sort of fame. The character defected to the Republic/Rebellion/whatever after Return of the Jedi, and ultimately, eventually, went back and his descendants became the new rulers of a new Empire. But that's way off.

This figure is based loosely on one of the characters' first appearances, which is why he looks a little wonky. This isn't a standard TIE Fighter Pilot outfit, nor is it a Rebel Pilot outfit. (So for those keeping track, there are two new versions of Fel Hasbro can crank out without too much work.) The figure is missing his trademark facial hair, and his proportions were very strange for a 2007 figure. He was a little chunkier and bulkier than he needed to be, but at least he exists, right? A working holster is a nice touch, but this figure basically went straight into the storage boxes after I got it because I just don't like the costume. If Hasbro just popped a new head on an existing body, I'd be thrilled-- hopefully now that we have the perfect TIE pilot body, we can get one some day down the road.

Excepting his ankles, this figure is quite close to being super articulated with a grand total of 12 joints. Not bad, considering you got two figures for $10 with a comic book when you bought this at its issue price.

Collector's Notes: None of this figure has been reused to make another figure yet, and it has never been reissued. But don't worry, you can buy the packaged set on eBay for about $11 shipped, which is less than it would cost you reissued.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,111: September 16, 2009

Figure of the Day: Day 1,217: Stormtrooper (Comic Pack)

STORMTROOPER Blue Shadow Virus (minus virus)
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87507
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #03
Includes: Blaster, reprint of Marvel's Star Wars #3
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $9.99
Availability: April 2007
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Governor Tarkin commands a personal contingent of elite stormtroopers aboard the Death Star, each one personally cleared and handpicked by the Governor himself. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' box insert.

Commentary: There's no such thing as having too big a Stormtrooper army. This one uses the 1999/2000 mold, but adds red lenses, blue shadows, aaaand that's pretty much it. Back when it was first released with movie deco, the notion of ball-jointed shoulders and knee joints was a pretty big deal. When first released in 2007, the comic edition was a bit of a drag in terms of sculpt-- but it looks nice. As part of a small subset of Marvel-deco figures, this is a figure I'd suggest buying to anyone wanting a small set of figures to keep on their desks. The Marvel coloring is pretty spectacular and in this age of urban vinyl toys that nobody buys but everybody likes to pretend are the biggest thing since McFarlane started a toy company, these little guys really do look like nifty, arty toys to keep on your desk or in a little shadow box. I wouldn't suggest these get bought by anyone who doesn't admire style over substance, because these are stylish. And kind of lame as toys, but man do they look nice for the asking price.

Collector's Notes: This is the first release. Subsequent releases lack the blue shadowing, and they're different enough that we consider them essentially different figures.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,217: February 11, 2010

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,561: Rohlan Dyre

ROHLAN DYRE and Jarael
The Legacy Collection Entertainment Earth Exclusive Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 91774
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #15
Includes: Blaster, helmet, backpack, Jarael figure, comic book reprint
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $19.99
Availability: November 2010
Appearances: Knights of the Old Republic comic books

Bio: Rohlan Dyre was a Human male Mandalorian Crusader and a former commander who fought in the early skirmishes of the Mandalorian Wars. He deserted the wars multiple times in an attempt to find answers pertaining to the war itself. (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' apartment's rock pile. What a wonderful amenity.

Commentary: When Hasbro approached me with this wave as an exclusive for my day job at Entertainment Eart, I didn't realize that Rohlan Dyre would be the best of the wave. Truth is, I was excited to get Baron Fel with a decent head sculpt. This great ancient Mandalorian turned out especially well, with a removable helmet, amazingly detailed armor, a removable knife in his boot, a blaster in his holster, and a backpack. Really, you can't beat that for a comic pack figure. I'm surprised Hasbro didn't just hold back on him and sell him carded as a Vintage figure... it's certainly cool enough.

The sculpt of this Knights of the Old Republic comic book figure is wonderful. He has pits in his armor, gashes and cuts, little sculpted rivets (check out his back if you got one), loads of straps, wrinkles, creases, and other stuff. There could stand to be a little more dirt on the figure, but even as a clean release this blue and red armored warrior is pretty slick stuff.

Under the helmet is the character from the comic, complete with scars. I think the sculpt is wonderful, but the painted "scar" seems to clash with the character's dark skin a little much. It's not very subtle, like on Jango Fett figures. He's got nice hair and a decent expression, and my guess is Hasbro scarred this guy and made him meaner as a reaction to the Mandalorians sold in the Elite Forces of the Republic set a few years ago. There's no mistaking this guy for an accountant or an engineer, the dude under the helmet is a mean warrior type. As such, he should be welcome in your collection.

Collector's Notes: Hey, I sell this at my day job. You should buy one, support both this site and my employer so I can afford to spend more time writing about toys for you. I can't get too specific but it is indeed a limited edition.

Day 1,561: June 8, 2011

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,387: Clone Commando

CLONE COMMANDO with Super Battle Droid
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87556
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #16
Includes: Gun, backpack, Super Battle Droid figure
Action Feature: Flames, bomb plug into figure
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Fall 2007
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: Only one clone commando lives to report what happened on the derelict factory moon of Asturias. While the commandos are escorting Director Lorca Oviedo, Oviedo's ship malfunctions near Asturias. Coming out of hyperspace, they are attacked by Separatist forces and crash on the moon. The commandos are attacked by super battle droids, droidekas, and battle droids, as a twisted web of lies and betrayals threatens them all. (Taken from the toy's cardback.)

Image: Adam's desk.

Commentary: In 2006 the reaction for Scorch, a clone action figure from Republic Commando, was so great we got the rest of his squad quite quickly-- and by the end of 2007 we even got this all-white Clone Commando in a comic pack. Based on a Tales story, this figure reused the same basic design and tweaks it. The unique character coloring is gone, as are the distinctive backpacks and armor bits. The figure is as you see it, reasonably devoid of extra gear in addition to ankle and knee joints. Fans cried bloody murder that these figures had a mere 10 points of articulation when many of their peers were 12 or 14. While I understand the desire for added joints, I dislike added costs, so I can get behind this figure being what it is pretty easily. He can stand and hold his weapon just fine, and the all-white look is unique given that, at the time, many of the Clone figures were brightly colored.

The sculpt, while good and largely accurate to media portrayals, does little to wow anybody. It's still good, it's just that Hasbro figures have seemingly hit a ceiling in 2007 where there wasn't much you could do. Once you hit "awesome" it's hard to go beyond that without really redoing how the line works, and while I think in 2010 we're seeing some dramatic improvements, the figures of 2007 are still fantastic. Along with his companion droid figure, this is a wonderful set. Get it.

Collector's Notes: While fans moaned, this is a good set. How do I know this? It sells for a lot on eBay. The free market has spoken, this assortment largely didn't sell in some stores, but this figure set sure did. Expect to pay $30 or more if you want one.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,387: October 7, 2010