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Collectibles => Past Hasbro 3.75" Lines => Revenge of the Sith => Topic started by: Scott on January 21, 2005, 10:28 PM

Title: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Scott on January 21, 2005, 10:28 PM
http://www.starwars.com/collecting/news/hasbro/news20050121.html

(http://www.starwars.com/collecting/news/hasbro/img/20050121_1_bg.jpg)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on January 21, 2005, 10:30 PM
Well, that's at least one line I have to stand in.  Interesting.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on January 21, 2005, 10:33 PM
Woah!  Wow.  Uh...  Cool!

I guess that's technically a ROTS version of Vader then?

No worries Brent, Ice Ice here will be more than happy to help you pass the time in line there, bub.   :-*
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 21, 2005, 10:34 PM
"None other than James Earl Jones, the legendary voice of Darth Vader, recorded new phrases exclusively for this special figure. The figure, a commanding Vader, is mounted on an exclusive base and in exclusive Celebration III packaging, and it ... speaks!"

OK, that seriously kicks some ass.

"The voice mechanism can be operated without opening the carded figure. But even more important, the batteries that power the speaking voice can be changed from the back of the stand without disturbing the packaging."

I'm seriously impressed by this.  They are really working their butts off to work with collectors on this.  Cool!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on January 21, 2005, 10:35 PM
From SW.com:

Quote
Sold at the Celebration III Store, planned for Exhibit Hall F in the Indiana Convention Center, April 21 - 24, 2005.
Quantities divided among all four days of the show; some will be sold each day while supplies last.

Price: $15.00, including tax.

Quantities are limited per person and badge type. Individuals with 4-day badges may purchase a total of 4 action figures, while supplies last. Those with 1-day badges may purchase 1 action figure, while supplies last.

The Celebration III Store staff will punch badges for each purchase, one punch per figure. For example, if a 4-day badge holder purchases 2 figures, they may go back to the store and purchase 2 more at a different time. There will be specific areas marked on the badges for the punches.

- and -

Quote
Attention Star Wars action figure fans, and fans of unique, exclusive collectibles: Darth Vader himself, or rather his voice, will be appearing at Star Wars Celebration III this April 21 to 24 when Hasbro and Lucasfilm unveil the new Darth Vader Celebration III action figure.
None other than James Earl Jones, the legendary voice of Darth Vader, recorded new phrases exclusively for this special figure. The figure, a commanding Vader, is mounted on an exclusive base and in exclusive Celebration III packaging, and it ... speaks!

Jones' recorded lines for the figure include: "The dark side of the Force is strong with you;" "Your journey to the dark side is now complete;" "Prepare to experience the Revenge of the Sith. It is your destiny;" and the soon-to-be-legendary "Welcome to Star Wars Celebration III. Never will you find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy." There is also a recording of the iconic Darth Vader breathing.

The figure is especially appropriate considering the May 19th premiere of Episode III Revenge of the Sith, in which Anakin Skywalker makes his transformation into Darth Vader, the villain whose chilling presence helped make the first Star Wars trilogy so memorable.

"Darth Vader is the villain everybody loves to hate, and hates to love," says Derek Stothard, Director of Toys at Lucas Licensing. "He's coming back in Episode III and we're telling his story. We are closing the circle, and bringing the saga back to the beginning of A New Hope."

When Hasbro and Lucasfilm started planning the new figure for Celebration III they considered a number of ideas, including producing another George Lucas-inspired figure based on the popularity of "Jorg Sacul" at Celebration II. They also considered producing a talking C-3PO figure.

"We discussed using a voice chip in that figure, because C-3PO has such funny and memorable sound qualities in his dialogue," says Stothard. "But as the project took shape, it became obvious that this would be the 'Year of Darth Vader.'"

The team decided to see if James Earl Jones would be available to provide new lines for the toy, providing a landmark collectible for Star Wars fans at Celebration III. He was.

"To have James Earl Jones’ voice in this figure speaking directly to the fans at Celebration III ... that is really something special," Stothard adds.

Darth Vader comes in a unique Celebration III package, mounted on a stand reminiscent of the interior of Cloud City. The packaging reflects well-thought engineering with collectors in mind. The voice mechanism can be operated without opening the carded figure. But even more important, the batteries that power the speaking voice can be changed from the back of the stand without disturbing the packaging. This is a Vader for the ages!

While he's pleased with the special battery feature, Star Wars collecting authority Steve Sansweet is reminded that there is far more to this Vader than just a great presentation.

"This figure takes one of the best lines of the movie and makes it into a virtual souvenir of Celebration III," says Sansweet, Head of Fan Relations at Lucasfilm. "It will remind people of the wonderful time they had at the show, and of the sense of community that permeates Star Wars."

Considering the "hive of scum and villainy" remark Sansweet adds "And fans can laugh at themselves, too."

In response to the "feeding frenzy" over the Jorg Sacul figure at Celebration II, Lucasfilm, Hasbro, and Gen Con LLC, which runs the show, have devised plans to try to make sure that the new Vader figure is easier to purchase and more fairly distributed.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on January 21, 2005, 10:36 PM


No worries Brent, Ice Ice here will be more than happy to help you pass the time in line there, bub.   :-*

Uh, can we sneak in beer?  Seriously. 

Guess I better order my pass PDQ.   4 day pass, here I come.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on January 21, 2005, 11:10 PM
No worries Brent, Ice Ice here will be more than happy to help you pass the time in line there, bub.   :-*

I'll be standing in line right there with you fellas, don't forget!

Uh, can we sneak in beer? Seriously.

Should be plenty of room in Alice's sweater for us to sneak in a few brews to pass the time...  :P

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on January 21, 2005, 11:17 PM
Scott, why'd you put this in the OTC section?   ::)

At least ROTS...  No?

Maybe I should give you a good admonishing, like I got for sticking a similar thread in the wrong place tonight!   :P

I'll be standing in line right there with you fellas, don't forget!

Most definitely!  The more the merrier.  Just make sure to give me all your extras (for the privelege of stashing your suds in my duds).
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 21, 2005, 11:19 PM
Maybe I should give you a good admonishing, like I got for sticking a similar thread in the wrong place tonight!   :P

Hah, I saw that on the scum!  Bad boy.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on January 21, 2005, 11:25 PM
Hah, I saw that on the scum!  Bad boy.

Yeah...  I should've known better.   ::)

Dammit.  I hate it when that happens!

As for this figure, I've got to say that it's very COOL that they've made the effort for the "carded" collectors to allow you to be able to remove/change the battery from the back without opening or damaging the packaging in the slightest bit.  Hopefully Hasbro starts doing the same in the future, when necessary...
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Scott on January 21, 2005, 11:26 PM
Moved :)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Stim on January 22, 2005, 01:50 AM
It doesn't look like I'm going to make it to CIII...if anyone grabs extras, I'd love it if you could keep me in mind.  Sounds like a pretty sweet exclusive.

Any idea if it's an original figure too?  Or just a re-release they've added a base to and recarded?  I can't really tell from the pics...

-Steve
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Hemish on January 22, 2005, 02:14 AM
Someone hook me up???



Let the begging begin  :o ;D
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jesse James on January 22, 2005, 04:11 AM
*sigh*

Count me in on the line waiting thing... 

Guess we'll really get to be good friends since we'll obviously be forced to stand with each other for such a long period of time.  :)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: SilverZ on January 22, 2005, 05:46 AM
Well, that looks pretty special. Really pretty thrilled with now much effort seems to have gone into the piece. I wonder if that figure is all-new, or is a kit bash of the upcoming ROTS Vader in some way. I have a feeling I'll never want to see Vader again after 2005 however.

Quote
"It will remind people of the wonderful time they had at the show, and of the sense of community that permeates Star Wars."

Or at least remind people of the long lines at the show, and of the sense of desperation that permeates acquiring limited Star Wars collectibles.

Maybe sometime down the line we can get the 3P0 version they mention.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on January 22, 2005, 05:58 AM
I wonder if that figure is all-new, or is a kit bash of the upcoming ROTS Vader in some way.

I've seen a few people speculating that it's possibly a rehash/kitbash of the 25th anniversary 2-pack version...  Can one of you youngin's with a good eye for such things confirm that, or not, please?!   :-*

I'd be a little bummed if that's indeed the case.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jesse James on January 22, 2005, 06:05 AM
It looks, to me, like a distinct possibility Matt, however I can't 100% say that.

It also says "not final product" real clear though...  They could surprise with this, but I doubt it...  I'd wholely expect a reused sculpt of some sort...  I just think there's better ones than the 25th 2-pack to use, but that's me...

MOTS would've been my choice.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DSJ™ on January 22, 2005, 06:57 AM
I might as well join in the line up guys. $60. spent already!  ;D
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darthshader on January 22, 2005, 09:14 AM
 ;)

Party in the line!
 ;D
I KNEW that Kill Bill flask I bought would come in handy! Beer takes up too much space, need room to carry exclusives.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Mikey D on January 22, 2005, 10:01 AM
All kinds of good news this morning.  First, the Max Rebo Kubrick set and now a pretty cool C3 exclusive. 

Can anyone going to C3 help me out with one of these?  I'd be willing to throw in something extra for your time.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on January 22, 2005, 10:11 AM
I really want to go to C3 but not sure if I can go yet or not?  Ugh.  Anyway I like the idea for this figure.  I do hope it's a new sculpt.  Anyway it was a unique idea.  You knew it had to do something with Vader.  Good idea IMO. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Kenobi on January 22, 2005, 11:31 AM
Can't wait till C3 happens and get this figure.  Like the fact that they put the battery compartment on the outside of the package.   I wish through that the limit was 2 a day instead of one a day.  I wonder how many people are going to buy 5 passes (one 4 day and four one days) to get eight figures now.  I will try and help out those who can't attened the show, how many I can help through will depend on weather or not my cousin wants me to pick up one for him or his friend or not. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jim on January 22, 2005, 01:04 PM
Anyone who can help me out please drop me a line.  I will gladly double the price for your time.  I had to cancel my plans to attend due to a major project startup at my job. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on January 22, 2005, 01:53 PM
;)

Party in the line!
 ;D
I KNEW that Kill Bill flask I bought would come in handy! Beer takes up too much space, need room to carry exclusives.

Not only do I really like you, I respect you :D
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darby on January 22, 2005, 03:06 PM
This is kind of neat, but not as "I gotta have it" as the Sacul figure.  Still, I will be camped out in line as well.  :)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: jadesfire on January 22, 2005, 08:22 PM
For those that need one, not only will I be there with a four day pass but so will my hubby so I am pretty sure I can cover six people.  As the convention gets closer just drop me a line or post here again. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 22, 2005, 08:39 PM
This is kind of neat, but not as "I gotta have it" as the Sacul figure.  Still, I will be camped out in line as well.  :)

So now you've got me wondering, what is it about the Sacul figure that really got your attention and made you think "I gotta have it"?  I ask this because I don't have it and didn't go to C2.  I've only seen pics online of the figure (and obviously of the Vader figure), and purely based on that, I'm more interested in the Vader.  Can someone clear me of my ignorance?   :)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Muftak on January 23, 2005, 05:11 AM
JesseVader, I think the "I gotta have it" aspect of the Sacul figure is the George-freakin'-Lucas likeness...there was no chance a figure like that would ever be released to the retail world, and a figure of Lucas was one of those fanboy dreams for quite a while at that point. At least I'd heard it fantasized about more than I've heard people calling for a "Talking Vader" figure.

I have to say (against the grain here, it seems) that I am extremely underwhelmed by a Darth Vader figure as this year's Celebration Exclusive.

You almost have to guarantee that the parts will be a kitbash of various Vaders at best, a straight rehash at worst.

While a voice chip is nice, boosting the price to $15 certainly cancels out any benefit there.

At C2, the first thing I did was hop in line for Sacul. This time around I'm not even sure I'll be going. A figure the likes of which I'd never see otherwise could've easily made that a no-brainer. Yet another Vader just doesn't do it for me...even one that talks to me about being at C3.

As a memento for the Celebration, Vader has some merit. But as a chance to fill in one of those "They'll never make that" figures, this is a letdown for me.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jesse James on January 23, 2005, 05:23 AM
I liked Sacul for what he was...  To me he's a nice random Rebel Pilot who happens to look like Lucas.  That's ok, I guess.

I didn't go but BigDumbWookie (Adam) was real super kick ass cool and helped me get a set of Saculs, which is just friggin' great.  I've never forgotten that!  (Thanks again Adam!)

The figure didn't make me drool though, and I don't think I would have cared if I hadn't been a completist so much...  Then again, it's a Rebel Pilot and I dig those...  I dig having a Lucas figure in the collection too.

The Vader I actually am underwhelmed by...  Not angry or upset, just indifferent.  This isn't the type of thing I care about.  I dig having James Earl Jones actually record the lines and all...  He's a class act all the way.  I'll get one happily enough.  If I wasn't going though, I think I wouldn't even be bothering to track it down at this point.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DSJ™ on January 23, 2005, 01:09 PM
Get yer Cell 3 Talking Vader on the auction block folks!  ::)

Celebration 3 Darth Vader (http://search.ebay.com/celebration-darth-vader_W0QQsofocusZbsQQsbrftogZ1QQfclZ3QQcatrefZC5QQfrppZ50QQfromZR10QQcatrefZC6QQftrtZ1QQftrvZ1QQfsopZ1QQfsooZ1QQcoactionZcompareQQcopagenumZ1QQcoentrypageZsearch)

Quote
I will go immediately from the store, to the shipping with your address in hand.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darthshader on January 23, 2005, 06:47 PM
;)

Party in the line!
 ;D
I KNEW that Kill Bill flask I bought would come in handy! Beer takes up too much space, need room to carry exclusives.




Not only do I really like you, I respect you :D

 :-*

Right back at ya, Morgbug! What will we be drinking? ;D
Hope to grab as many extra  Vader figures as possible, have a begging list starting over at TradeFed as well.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 23, 2005, 09:35 PM
Get yer Cell 3 Talking Vader on the auction block folks!  ::)

Celebration 3 Darth Vader (http://search.ebay.com/celebration-darth-vader_W0QQsofocusZbsQQsbrftogZ1QQfclZ3QQcatrefZC5QQfrppZ50QQfromZR10QQcatrefZC6QQftrtZ1QQftrvZ1QQfsopZ1QQfsooZ1QQcoactionZcompareQQcopagenumZ1QQcoentrypageZsearch)

Quote
I will go immediately from the store, to the shipping with your address in hand.

 ::)  I love how he guarantees it will be C10!  Lucky for us that he has such control over these things:

Quote
I WILL BE ONE OF THE FIRST IN LINE TO GUARANTEE YOU GET ONE.

He must be best friends with George Lucas, who's saving him a spot in line.   ::)  :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Brian on January 24, 2005, 08:35 AM
This is a pretty cool exclusive, and a nice surprise.  Although the figure will likely be some sort of rehash/kitbash, the James Earl Jones factor makes it pretty neat in my book.  I really wish we could afford to make it out to C3, sounds like it will be a great time.  I'll add my name to the list along with the other "poor souls", if anyone has an extra or could pick one up for me, I'd really appreciate it.  If not, that's fine too, just enjoy the Celebration :).
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: starwax137 on February 9, 2005, 06:33 PM
I'll add my name to the list along with the other "poor souls", if anyone has an extra or could pick one up for me, I'd really appreciate it.  If not, that's fine too, just enjoy the Celebration :).

Same here.  :( :'(
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Famine on February 10, 2005, 06:23 AM
*sigh*

Count me in on the line waiting thing... 

Guess we'll really get to be good friends since we'll obviously be forced to stand with each other for such a long period of time.  :)


I'll see you all in line. I'm having my grandmother get a pass just for this, but we shant tell her thats why, ok?

Kevin
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: CHEWIE on February 10, 2005, 05:29 PM
This figure just doesn't interest me... in fact, none of these Celebration Exclusives have...

 :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on February 11, 2005, 02:49 PM
Does anyone know if there is a one to one relationship between pass and attendee? In other words can one person with two passes buy double the limit?

Basically the reason why I'm asking is that if I buy an extra pass for someone and give them the money for three of these, will they be able to get three more on top of what they already want to get with their own pass?

If that is possible, I'm willing to buy someone a weekend pass and give them the money to pick me up three of these things (I think the limit for a weekend pass is four).
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on February 11, 2005, 04:19 PM
Good question Pete.  I think the way the website reads that should be doable.  So long as you have a pass, you should be able to get however many it entitles you too. 

The difficulty will be in the staff's interpretation of the rule once someone shows up and tries to do it.  Call me cynical, but I think the rules allow it and someone will mess up the rules, they always do. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Famine on February 11, 2005, 04:25 PM
Brent, what if this interferes with our 3:00 flagpole showdown?

Reschedualing is at hand.

Or should we just move it inside in the line? ;)

Kevin
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on February 11, 2005, 04:59 PM
Inside the line is fine Kevin, perhaps they'll start throwing money at us and we can profit from it as well.  Drinking and fighting in the line at C3, all the fun in the world :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Famine on February 11, 2005, 05:01 PM
Inside the line is fine Kevin, perhaps they'll start throwing money at us and we can profit from it as well.  Drinking and fighting in the line at C3, all the fun in the world :P

I'm sure we'll make the nightly news.

"Tonight at ten: MTV Star attacks Drunken Canadian at Star Wars Convention. Lucas furrious!"

Kevin
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on February 12, 2005, 02:43 AM
I'll wager $20 on the Drunken Canadian - we're wiley you know!   ;D
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on February 12, 2005, 04:30 AM
Does anyone know if there is a one to one relationship between pass and attendee? In other words can one person with two passes buy double the limit?

Basically the reason why I'm asking is that if I buy an extra pass for someone and give them the money for three of these, will they be able to get three more on top of what they already want to get with their own pass?

If that is possible, I'm willing to buy someone a weekend pass and give them the money to pick me up three of these things (I think the limit for a weekend pass is four).

I think it's definitely going to be do-able Pete, but not necessarily in the same trip.  Lots of folks have already suggested they could just buy extra passes to get extra figures, so there's really no way of stopping that, I'd guess.  They're monitoring things by punching passes, so if a pass has no punches, it should still be valid.  I highly doubt with the thousands of people going through the lines that they're actually going to remember anyones face, and that they've already bought their full allotment of four.

I just don't think they're gonna let anyone walk up there and show them two separate passes at once and get multiple figures though.  I think it'll require just a little more tact than that.  Buy up your figures with one pass, then return later on (preferably to a different table with a different person) and then buy some more with your second pass (with your first pass obviously stashed away somewhere).  They obviously are trying their best to keep folks from taking advantage of the situation like last year, so I think if you're sly about it and make two totally separate trips to get the figures, you should be fine.

Of course, that would mean someone would likely have to spend anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours waiting in line just to score some extra figures for someone, which would obviously suck.  But I just highly doubt they'll honor two separate badges in one trip, so I think multiple trips through the line would be in order.

And that goes back to the question I asked here a couple weeks ago, which was whether a 4-day pass holder could just get all 4 of their figures at once, or if they'll keep it limited to no more than one per day...  Sounds like we can at least nab all 4 together, to save ourselves from wasting too much time in the figure line, and enable ourselves to waste our valuable time in other lines instead.   :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on February 12, 2005, 04:38 AM
As for the showdown between Mr. TV star and the old Canucklehead, I'm gonna have to throw my money down on Kevin.  'Cause Brent's probably gonna be too drunk to put up much of a fight, let alone just balance himself enough to stand in a line for any period of time.  I'll see to that, Kev.  His ass is all yours, young fella!   ;)

Take that however you like.   :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Famine on February 12, 2005, 06:03 AM
Just better not bend the cards on my Vaders. That's all I'm sayin'.

Kevin
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on February 14, 2005, 01:34 AM
As for the showdown between Mr. TV star and the old Canucklehead, I'm gonna have to throw my money down on Kevin.  'Cause Brent's probably gonna be too drunk to put up much of a fight, let alone just balance himself enough to stand in a line for any period of time.  I'll see to that, Kev.  His ass is all yours, young fella!   ;)

Take that however you like.   :P

Qualifier: 3rd eldest Canucklehead :-*
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Nicklab on February 14, 2005, 12:19 PM
Hmmm, I wonder if James Earl Jones might be on hand to autograph one of these bad boys at C3?  Hmmmm.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on February 14, 2005, 12:42 PM
That would be about the only auto I'd stand in line for.  Maybe Carrie Fisher, because she has a wicked sense of humour. 
Title: Question on price for C3 Vader.
Post by: Darth Kenobi on February 19, 2005, 09:08 PM
Since this has already come up at RS I figure I should ask this question here.  What do you guys feel is a fair price for the C3 Vader figure? I ask because at C2 I ended up getting extra figures for the members at Deathstarplans for about $20 each or so.  No one there complained but after the Jorg Sacul "disaster" and other exclusive figures it seems alot of people in the SW communities have scapler on the brain.  What I wondering is would it be fair for those people who went to C3 and buy they alloment of 4 figures (if they have a 4 day pass) too ask for a somewhat higher amount of the figure say $5-$10.
I have in the past gotten exclusive items that have been bought at Cons and have payed for some of that person's expenisves with the price of the exclusive. 
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Vader.
Post by: jokabofe on February 19, 2005, 09:54 PM
Any extras that I end up with will be sold off at $15 - what I pay for them. I understand that it's costing money to go to C3 and all that, but I don't see why I should charge someone else an extra $5 - $10 just because they weren't able to make it there. But that's just me.

Besides, I've met enough nice people through these boards that have helped me out with so much stuff, at cost, that I would just feel bad charging anyone more than I paid.
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Cader.
Post by: JesseVader08 on February 20, 2005, 10:00 AM
For the most part, I agree.  I don't think I could charge more than cost - like you said Dave, so many guys have helped me out at cost that it would feel wrong to charge more.

But on the other hand, I would understand if someone charged me an extra $5, but no more than that.  A little extra to cover costs is fine, but just a little. 
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Cader.
Post by: Jesse James on February 20, 2005, 11:56 PM
Personally, while I've always appreciated the help in the past, I think it's up to the individual how to repay the person...  Otherwise it gets touchy.  It's a tough situation with con exclusives.

My POV on people claiming "recooping cost" is that the only cost involved is the cost of the item itself.  All other costs are tallied to one's personal enjoyment of going to the thing in the first place.  Like I can't buy up this figure and claim I want $10 or $20 compensation for my going to the con...  I'm gonna ENJOY the con, and I'd have been going if there wasn't a figure anyway...  if that makes sense. 

Personally I think with so many people bending over backwards to help, and with it being a Star Wars con and all, that unless you were going just to get these to distribute them to friends and stuff then charging extra isn't going to be looked upon too highly.

Maybe $5 or so...  That's bending things in my view though as while someone isn't gonna be spending the $95 or whatever to go to the con,t hey're also sitting at home and not getting to experience all there is at Celebration 3 either.  It's sort of a trade-off really.
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Cader.
Post by: Morgbug on February 20, 2005, 11:59 PM
[Devil's advocate mode]

$95 to get in the con?  Yeah, if you don't factor in my airline flight ($500 CAD) and hotel room costs, plus my cab fare to the event.  Sure, knock off my $95 USD all you want for admission, I will enjoy the event.  But unless you live in Indy, it ain't no $95. 

[/devil's advocate]
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Cader.
Post by: Jesse James on February 21, 2005, 04:00 AM
True...  But it's still your enjoyment is my point.  $95 + my gas $, plus my time off responsibilities that I have to make up, plus my Hotel cost, plus food...  I can add it all up, but to me it's what I pay to enjoy the show... 

My point wasn't so much the $95 tag I threw on there (costs more for all of us, of course)...  It's that I'm enjoying the show even if the figure wasn't part of the equation I guess, and that's my cost of going there, and the Vader doesn't factor into that at all to me.

Like I said, I can see $5 or so markup I guess, I dunno. 
Title: Re: Question on price for C3 Cader.
Post by: Morgbug on February 21, 2005, 03:27 PM
I see your point entirely, I'm just trying to present how I view convention exclusives when I get them off ebay.  For me, paying $85 for the clone trooper pilot bust wasn't unreasonable.  Think about a scalper, minimal joy at a convention aside from scoring items to make money.  Has to pay $35 to get into SDCC.  Now the cost should be spread out over the items he/she picks up, so putting the total on my bust isn't "fair".  But I'm not there, not paying entry fee, not paying parking, not taking time off to do it.  Would I rather have had Matt luck out and get me one for $50?  Sure, I ain't that dumb, but if I have to pay a little more it's not unreasonable.  Now if it's not a scalper, but a collector that managed to score a second bust at the same time and he/she's trying to recoup their entry fee, so be it. 

I really appreciate any help I get from folks that go (hello, JediMac) to events and if they pass on the deals, great, but I always offer to help out with costs if they want.  No one is obligated to help me in any way and I don't feel it's reasonable to expect that.  It is part of the overwhelming coolness of JD though.  Most, if not all, of the regulars here do that sort of thing for people no problem and it positively rocks.  Should there be any doubt, no, I am not charging anyone extra for my spares.  In point of fact, I offered them to a couple of people before they asked as a way of repaying people that spend a lot of time helping me out with various items. 

For the most part, I was just interjecting the opposing opinion.  I just don't think it's entirely reasonable to expect that just because someone is going anyway, that they should pass along an item to someone because they ask and do so for cost.  You've got a pretty neat item that's worth more than you paid for it instantly.  You could easily trade it for a Jorg Sacul figure I'd guess fairly quickly.  Now there's a discrepancy in retail but not necessarily in value. 

If someone's asking you to pay more than retail, it's a decision you have to make - what's it worth to me?  But to expect someone going to part with some pretty awesome trade bait at cost just because you need it might not be entirely fair either. ;)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on March 2, 2005, 10:21 PM
Looks like the packaging is changing a bit on this one...

Here's what it looked like originally:
(http://www.starwars.com/collecting/news/hasbro/img/20050121_1_bg.jpg)


And here's what it looks like now:
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/2-05/c3vaderc3.jpg)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on March 2, 2005, 10:24 PM
Do you think that much has actually changed, Jeff?  It looks like the difference in colour could be explained by differences in lighting when the pictures were taken.  Or are you seeing something else I'm not?   :)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on March 2, 2005, 10:27 PM
The new one has a little opening on the lower right hand side, looks like a try me feature was added changing the bubble slightly...

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Diddly on March 2, 2005, 10:28 PM
I think it looks better. Still not sure if I should get one though.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on March 2, 2005, 10:47 PM
The new one has a little opening on the lower right hand side, looks like a try me feature was added changing the bubble slightly...

Jeff

Oh.  Better get my contacs prescription rechecked.   :-[

I'm guessing that button is how you activate JEJ's voice.  I'm still so pumped to hear that, the grin I get will be ear to ear.   :D

If I get only one souvenir from this event, I guarantee it will be this figure. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on March 3, 2005, 09:01 AM
If I go to the event (still up in the  air) I'll get it for sure.  Otherwise, I might now.  It would be one of those things I would get later down the road.  If at all.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: darkksith on March 9, 2005, 01:57 PM
ok, i read on another site that this vader looks to be the one included in the 25th anniverary 2-pack battling obi-wan. now IF this is true does anyone know if the talking voice feature comes from the base or package and if the figure is permanently attched to the base? what i'm getting at is this could be one, for the loose completist collectors like myself, to not have to worry about obtaining. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on March 9, 2005, 02:04 PM
IF this is true does anyone know if the talking voice feature comes from the base or package and if the figure is permanently attched to the base?

In this picture:
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/2-05/c3vaderc3.jpg)

You can see the "try me" button for the Voice Chip is at the bottom of the package, indicating to me that the Voice Chip stuff is probably in the base and not the figure itself...

I have no idea how/if Vader is permanently attached to the base - I'd guess that he is NOT permanently attached to the base.  Other deluxe figres haven't been attached, so I doubt this one will.

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on April 22, 2005, 03:37 AM
I'll let some of those who actually endured the pain share the gory details, but I thought I'd mention that the line for the C3 Vader ran at least 8.5 hours long for many folks.  Absolutely terrible experience for those who were unfortunate enough to brave the wait...

 ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Ook on April 22, 2005, 03:44 AM
The wait sounds preferable to nothing I can think of. If I were there, I'd totally blow off the store.

Is that a straight repack, or are any parts new...?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on April 22, 2005, 11:20 AM
I really want one :(
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: aka DaBigKahuna on April 22, 2005, 02:30 PM
Great way to thank the fans!  Have them sit in line all day.  This is absolutely pittiful!

George Lucas and anyone with two arms and two legs should have been walking down the long line passing out the Vaders and collecting money.

Man this irritates me to hear this.

DBK

I'll let some of those who actually endured the pain share the gory details, but I thought I'd mention that the line for the C3 Vader ran at least 8.5 hours long for many folks.  Absolutely terrible experience for those who were unfortunate enough to brave the wait...

 ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 22, 2005, 04:18 PM
According to the RS Q&A posting the following is TRUE!!!!

The Darth Vader Celebration III figure will be available online after the show

YES!!!!

Finally some sanity to this - I guess they either made WAY more of the Vader figure than they did of Jorg Sacul OR the figure isn't selling as well as Sacul did and they anticipate having plenty of extras....

Great news indeed!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on April 22, 2005, 05:27 PM
I think they are just saving some figures for online sales. Whatever the reason, i am happy to have the chance to get one although it will still probabl;y be tough. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Diddly on April 22, 2005, 10:03 PM
Well that's just great news, I could've gotten it online and wouldn't have to make Vator wait in line. ::)

JediMAC, or anyone else in line, was it REALLY that long, or are we overexagerating a bit?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 24, 2005, 12:25 AM
Well that's just great news, I could've gotten it online and wouldn't have to make Vator wait in line. ::)

JediMAC, or anyone else in line, was it REALLY that long, or are we overexagerating a bit?

I waited in line for 5 hours on Thursday for Vader, Jared and a few others had a 9 hour wait.  The average wait time for the C3 Vader has been around 6 hours.   >:(

According to the RS Q&A posting the following is TRUE!!!!

The Darth Vader Celebration III figure will be available online after the show

As for on-line sales, be careful - Hasbro said they will try to do it, but it would be VERY limited quantity and there would be no guarantee on condition of the figures.  I think RS may have been reading into the comment a bit too much...  :(

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Ben on April 24, 2005, 02:23 AM
Between three boards, I've read nothing but horror stories concerning C3. Is it really that bad?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 24, 2005, 08:34 AM
As for on-line sales, be careful - Hasbro said they will try to do it, but it would be VERY limited quantity and there would be no guarantee on condition of the figures.  I think RS may have been reading into the comment a bit too much...  :(

RS mis-represent a quote from Hasbro? I'm shocked and appalled by this accusation!

NOT!

 ;D

- Peter
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on April 24, 2005, 09:28 AM
Guys I went there on Friday.  No crap, it was THAT long.  Unbelievable unless you were there.  They would cap the line at somepoint and say the damn store is closed.  It is unfortunate for those that come all that way, but that's the way it goes.  You basically had to be there at 4-5am towards the front of the MASSIVE line to get in.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Diddly on April 24, 2005, 02:31 PM
Okay, I read on another forum that people would buy the fig for $15, then once the store closed, would sell them at the stands for $60. Can anyone confirm this insanity?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Chris on April 24, 2005, 02:34 PM
Okay, I read on another forum that people would buy the fig for $15, then once the store closed, would sell them at the stands for $60. Can anyone confirm this insanity?

Confirmed.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on April 24, 2005, 03:50 PM
Yep, me and my friend Dan kept asking people if they would sell us a Vader.  One booth told us "Yes, for $60."  That was just one booth though that told us that.  Most of the other responses were "No, this one is for my nephew, this is for my niece, this is for me, this is for my friend." 

It was nice to see people lugging 12 of them around.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DoctorPadawan on April 24, 2005, 07:52 PM
You know, reading all the horror stories about the Star Wars Line-O-Rama 2005, I'm feeling like complete and total crap about asking Tydirium to pick a Vader up for me.  While I appreciate him doing so, I feel tremendously guilty for him having to stand in line for so long just to grab me a figure. 

I'm completely in the dark about this, but how much did it cost for most people to go to the C3 Line Dance this year, counting just the passes and hotel rooms and travel expenses?  I would not be terribly surprised to find out that a lot of people didn't get to do a whole lot of anything because they had to stand in line the majority of the time. 

I'm really glad that I stayed home.  If I was there, I probably would have just walked out and come home after the first day anyway, or at the very least just hang out at Hooters getting drunk waiting on everyone else to get back. ;D
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Nathan on April 24, 2005, 08:21 PM
I blew off the store altogether. If I could have walked right in, bought a Vader, and walked out within 15 minutes, I would have done so just so I could say I had the exclusive. But no way was I going to spend that much time in line.

The thing that really got my goat was that I wanted other items like a t-shirt, but the line was mixed so I would have had to wait behind all the scalpers hoarding Vaders.

You were only allowed four Vaders per person (four punches on the badge), but people used their kids' badges and sent in ringers because some folks were walking around with half-dozens or full cases of the things. And you just know that 50% of these guys are going direct to eBay with the suckers.

And yes, most toy exhibitors had handmade signs saying they would buy Vaders. I was surprised that they were so brazen about it, and that the C3 staff wasn't going around ripping the signs down.

I heard that on Saturday they split Vader into a separate line so I was tempted to go over there, but they capped the line way early again, and besides I had lots of other events I wanted to see.

I just hope some of the souvenirs end up on StarWarsShop.com.

P.S.: And as for the lines in general ... I skipped everything that had a wait of more than a half hour, with the exceptions of a panel for the post-NJO novel series and a couple of author signings.

True, I missed out on highlights like the opening ceremony, but I just couldn't stomach shooting half a day sitting in one spot, no matter how cool the end result. My reasons for going to C3 were: 30% to meet fans from online, 30% to meet EU creators and get their autographs, 30% to buy collectibles of the non-exclusive non-expensive variety, and only 10% everything else. Most of the things I wanted to see didn't have significant lines anyway.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: jokabofe on April 24, 2005, 09:11 PM
Between three boards, I've read nothing but horror stories concerning C3. Is it really that bad?

Yes. I completely skipped even trying to get into the store. And I had to wait outside in the cold and rain from 3am till 9am just to score the Sandtrooper bust. But at least I had company  ;)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediKnight87 on April 24, 2005, 11:51 PM
Wouldn't the battery leak acid after so many years, thus ruining the figure inside?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Brian on April 25, 2005, 09:25 AM
Man, it really sounds like this was a terrible experience overall.  5-9 hours in line for it?  Ridiculous.  When I first heard about this figure, I was really bummed I would be missing out since I wasn't able to go to C3, but now it doesn't sound like I missed much.  I feel bad for those of you who had to spend so much of your weekend waiting in line for it though, you would think there could have been a better system for this.

Thinking about the different exclusives this year (C3 Vader, Lava Vader, Holo Yoda, EB Set, Target Clone, etc.), things are really messed up, and I hope this isn't where the line is headed in the future.  Pretty much all of these figures are just rehashes that are recast or repainted in some way, and NONE of them are selling anywhere close to retail.  Although some are pretty neat, don't get me wrong, when you start thinking about it...it really is crappy.  $12-$13 for a figure that would normally be $5 (or less), even if it is exclusive, is more than high enough.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: jokabofe on April 25, 2005, 09:32 AM
Wouldn't the battery leak acid after so many years, thus ruining the figure inside?

From what I understand, there is a way to change the battery without opening the figure. I don't have one though, so I can't confirm this.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on April 25, 2005, 10:03 AM
I think they set up the packaging so that the back side to chnage the battery can be opened.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on April 25, 2005, 10:40 AM
I was happy for the fact that I really was not missing out on a new figure.  It's just yet another Vader with lines recorded by Jones.  However, if you attend the event and get to it early and suffer through all the lines, buying the damn tickets, flying, etc you should get your $15 exclusive figure from the event.  LOL!  I mean come on. 

I can hear it from Lucasfilm and Hasbro now  though "The C3 Vader was such a hit with the fans that they even waited up to 10 hours to buy it!!!  All the fans went home happy and everything was wonderful in the hap, hap, happy land of Star Wars fandom!!!"  Birdies chirp and happy music plays. 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2005, 12:41 PM
I think they set up the packaging so that the back side to chnage the battery can be opened.

Yes, the part that holds the battery DOES stick out through the back of the car so that you can remove the battery without damaging the product.

I think you can thank Steve Sansweet for that - it's the kind of tiny details that gets corrected for when you have an uber-collector helping you design the toy!

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 25, 2005, 12:52 PM
In stock at the swshop - run, don't walk...NOW!

Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 25, 2005, 01:00 PM
In stock at the swshop - run, don't walk...NOW!

WOO-HOO!

I just placed my order for four of these things!

Not to gloat too much, but based on the horror stories I've heard from CIII, I'm so glad I decided to save my money for buying ROTS toys instead of travelling to Indiana!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 25, 2005, 01:01 PM
They need to cut the limit to 2 per customer.

No offense, but I don't know why anyone needs four... ???
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 25, 2005, 01:10 PM
They need to cut the limit to 2 per customer.

No offense, but I don't know why anyone needs four... ???

Actually, I can understand where you're coming from, but here's my count break-down.

1 - for me to have MOC
1 - for me to open
1 - for my grandson - I get him one of every exclusive
1 - for my friend who I know will want one
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2005, 01:13 PM
Celebration 3 Vader - In Stock (http://shop.starwars.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=3392&ReferrerID=CJADBN-00001)

It says limit 4 on one part, and limit 2 on another part of the text.

Why the hell did I bust my ass bringing these back for people?   >:(

On one hand it's cool for those that missed it, on the other hand it sucks ass because I wasted 5 hours of my life getting my figures before they started spreading the word you could buy them later.   ::)

At least I know mine are minty-mint and I con't have to worry that they will come all mangled...

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 25, 2005, 01:20 PM
That's cool.

You knew where I was going with it---I hate to see scalpers buy four only to take those four and resell them on the monster that is ebay.

 ;)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 25, 2005, 01:27 PM
That's cool.

You knew where I was going with it---I hate to see scalpers buy four only to take those four and resell them on the monster that is ebay.

 ;)

Oh totally - I wasn't offended by your comment at all. I totally understand the frustration on the part of many JDer's who went to CIII, were either shut-out from buying one or got fed up, only to see other people wandering around with entire cases of them!

Personally I think what is happening now with this figure is what should have been done with the Jorg Sacul. You just can't meet demand accurately by limiting the figure to a specific event in a specific location. I hope that all of those dealers who bought boat-loads of them this past weekend have to eat them!

Want to see something funny - check out BriansToys - he has the C3 Vader up for $80 on his site - what a joke!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 25, 2005, 01:33 PM
Yeah, Brian, he's a capitalist in the truest sense of the word.

Funny this is, he sells that stuff at those prices... ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 25, 2005, 01:38 PM
Yeah, I can't ******* stand Brian's Toys. I've been saying it for years, and my biddy almost got ripped off by them this weekend. I understand that it costs money to run this site, but do we really have to have these scumbags as sponsors?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JayDouble on April 25, 2005, 01:51 PM
Anyone getting "Error" when trying to order it?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darth Broem on April 25, 2005, 02:14 PM
I kept hitting Add to Cart and it would not go to my cart.  Then a bunch of errors.  My friend scored 2 of them though.  So, at least he got through and got himself and I one.  Lucky.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: MetalJedi on April 25, 2005, 02:16 PM
It took awhile to reload but I was able to get two.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JayDouble on April 25, 2005, 02:19 PM
Got thru, took some time.   ;D 
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 25, 2005, 02:30 PM
It took a while, but I managed to get two.  I purchased them just in case SLC wasn't able to get me one.

Have you seen some of auctions on ebay for this figure????  ONe guy's selling a whole case of them and the starting bid equates to &65 per figure!

I can't believe people got out of CIII with entire cases of these when others had to wait 5-9 hours for just one!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on April 25, 2005, 02:45 PM
Well after trying and trying i got through and got 1. :) Good enough for me!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2005, 05:03 PM
Sounds like this figure is sold out now...

Not sure if it's just sold out for the day or if it's gone for good.

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: darkksith on April 25, 2005, 05:12 PM
has anyone compared the loose C3 vader to the vader in the POTJ 25th anniversary obi-wan vader 2-pack. i heard these are pretty much the same figure but wanted to know if you noticed any differences besides the copyright date on the foot? thanks for any info you have.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jesse James on April 25, 2005, 05:14 PM
I missed the Vader on the first day since I had a lot of work to do...  I missed a LOT on the first day actually, just in general.

Second day I vowed to get my Vader early so I went with my Volunteer badge to get it...  The Volunteer/Associate/Exhibitor (yes, the Exhibitors could use a SPECIAL line to get in early  ::) ) line was quicker than the regular line, but still I was one of the earlier people in line and had a 1.5 hour wait to get my Vaders...  The cards aren't even minty mint really.  I got one seemingly flawless one, while others were rough around the edges...  mostly curled corners.

The Vader thing was a fiasco at best.  The whole issue of lines was though, in retrospect.  They wouldn't open the "VIP" line till 9 when the Fanclub folks came in...  Why, I do not know, as they could've had that VIP line open immediately so people who were in that line could go in, get their stuff, and leave, leaving a whole other line open for people to get into.

The same could've been said for almost everything though...  I had to way Sunday to get into the LFL archives exhibit for no reason other than they weren't opening the exhibit till 9 again...  We stood for a while waiting till MORE people came in, to stand in line and wait...  They could've moved 100+ people through the LFL Archives before 9...  cut that line down some.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jim on April 25, 2005, 05:49 PM
And just like that they are gone.  What was the run on this sucker?  It seems like it should of sold out easily at C3.  Im happy others were able to order it but I feel bad for all the people that wasted a better part of a day waiting for this.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Darby on April 25, 2005, 05:52 PM
I didn't even get  the chance to get him at C3 (the line was EIGHT hours long when I got there Friday afternoon) and now I get home today and he's sold out of shop already.

Except for the five minutes of footage Rick McCallum showed, it was a very disappointing experience.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2005, 06:00 PM
And just like that they are gone. What was the run on this sucker? It seems like it should of sold out easily at C3. Im happy others were able to order it but I feel bad for all the people that wasted a better part of a day waiting for this.

Not sure if this was the final total but at one point at the start of C3, they had 500 pallets of Vader figures.

500 Pallets = 10,000 cases = 120,000 Vaders (give or take a few).

There may have been more or less, but that's the number I heard being tossed around at the show.

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jeff on April 26, 2005, 08:32 PM
Anyone miss out on this Darth Vader?

You may want to check out the front page news...  ;)

Jeff
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: CHEWIE on April 26, 2005, 08:54 PM
Very nice giveaway.  I think it should be a monthly giveaway (not a monthly C3 Vader, but something different every month).  I'd be happy to contribute.

 :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Diddly on April 26, 2005, 08:59 PM
Sent in my form! Vader was unable to get me one, long story about scalpers, so I entered the contest. I may have sent in a bit too much info though, like my city and state. You guys won't count off for that, will ya? :-\
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on April 26, 2005, 09:41 PM
**COUGH** (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=7317.0)

Nevermind.  I see you guys are way ahead of me!  :P

Good luck folks!

And CHEWIE, I think you'll be happy to see what's in store for some future giveaways here, following this one...  8)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JayDouble on April 26, 2005, 10:20 PM
Is one of the giveaways "A Chance to Play Air Hockey with Matt?"  If it is I'll pass.   :P 

Cool giveaway guys.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JediMAC on April 26, 2005, 10:26 PM
Is one of the giveaways "A Chance to Play Air Hockey with Matt?"  If it is I'll pass.   :P

That'd be a very wise decision Jay, since I kicked all their asses at it.  To be honest, Brent squeezed out a 7-6 decision against me once, but I smacked him around twice after that, and added Dave and Jesse2 to the ass kicking list as well.  Don't mess with my kung fu on the air hockey table, or you'll be sorry...  :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: CHEWIE on April 26, 2005, 10:38 PM
JediMAC, I have never been defeated at Air Hockey.  I even beat this kid.

(http://cle1.visn.net/~cavsfanbk/Images/Christmas%20Images/Ben%20Air%20Hockey.jpg)

 :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 27, 2005, 02:04 PM
Thanks for the chance to win a CIII Vader...but why did I get three spam emails this morning telling me to shop at Shopko for all of my SW needs??












end fib


Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 27, 2005, 04:35 PM
Hey - for anyone who was able to order theirs on Monday from shop.starwars.com - I received my two "order shipped" e-mails for my four C3 Vader figures. I wasn't sure that they were going to let me place two orders, but they did and now the FedEx tracking system is telling me I'll have them on April 30th!

What a month for Star Wars toys huh? Started off with the midnight madness and ends with the C3 Vader and the EE SA Clones (which I got today!)

- Peter
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: jokabofe on April 27, 2005, 04:41 PM
Don't mess with my kung fu on the air hockey table, or you'll be sorry...  :P

We just kept playing to see how many times you would dive on the floor and scare the crap out of the other, non-drunk customers. And don't let me start on the pool shooting (and/or other activities that went down in the pool room, for that matter) either, okay?

 :-*
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Aaron_D on April 29, 2005, 05:11 AM
Really a bummer to hear some of you guys had to go through such an excruciating ordeal to get this figure at C3 last week, especially after seeing it put up for sale at SWS.com the morning you all got back.  I would've been rather annoyed to miss some cool events or panel discussions if I knew I could get the figure later online.

Weren't the Jorg Sacul lines at C2 a LOT shorter though?  I know there were scalping problems at both conventions, but I don't remember hearing so many complaints about the line at C2, even though it sounds like there were far fewer Saculs made available than the Vaders this time.  Strange.

Also, were the dealers really allowed to buy and sell these things right out in the open, for all to see?  That doesn't make sense to turn the convention hall into a scalpers dream right in front of all the fans that are trying to acquire this figure.  I can understand some dealers trying to do some business "under the table", but to see pictures of their signs posted for buying and selling the Vader is ridiculous.  The Gen Con organizers should never have allowed that, which I think would have eliminated at least some of the problems.

But at least it sounds like most everyone here got one, either at C3, or online.  I think I've got one coming in a pending trade with a local friend fortunately.  Anyone else still missing this figure?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on April 29, 2005, 11:55 AM

Also, were the dealers really allowed to buy and sell these things right out in the open, for all to see? 

Unfortunately, that was true.  Many of the dealers were offering to pay $30 for the Vaders, and then turned around and sell them for $60.  I even saw one booth asking $80!

While chatting with a few of the people I met there, I heard stories of Volunteers walking in and selling them to the vendors and saying "I'll be back with more."  Very uncool.  This shouldn't have been an option.  Of course, you could argue that they simply would have gone to eBay instead, but it shouldn't have been so damn easy for people to scalp these right in front of our faces.  I'm not saying that volunteers shouldn't have some perks, but GenCon should have put a stop to the vendors selling this for 4 times the price they were available for down the hall.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on April 29, 2005, 12:32 PM
I feel really bad for you guys that went and had a horrible time.  Case in point - many of you who were actually present at C3, were not able to obtain a Vader figure...while I was able to get one from swshop.com. 

That's just not right.

My suggestion, as posted under the C3 thread, is as follows:

*When you order your attendance badge, a figure certificate is included that is non-transferable and counterfeit proof.  One badge per envelope - no exceptions.

When you pass through the convention doors for the first time, some lackey hands you a figure - clean and clear.  You hand him/her your figure certificate.

Done and done.

Raise the price of the badge(s) $15 to compensate for the figure...or just forget it and consider it fair considering this year's fiasco.

 :-*
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 29, 2005, 07:57 PM
The problem with a plan like that is (a) there probably isn't going to be another Star Wars celebration and (b) it just makes too much damn sense.

How's this for another plan: If you KNOW you're going to sell more AFTER the show, announce it so you chop the vendors off a the knees. You make them question just exactly HOW MANY were made and they think twice before hoarding them for after-event price gouging.

Just think if all of the Vaders that went into the hands of vendors instead were left over and were selling now on shop.starwars.com? Jerks like Brian's Toys wouldn't be even daring to ask $80 for one of these!

I feel that the dealers inflated the demand of the Jorg Sacul too - at this point, he's down around $40 and many times the auction closes w/o any bidder. In another two or three years, I bet that figure will be available for about what you could get it for at Celebration 2 - the reason is that many of them fell into the hands of vendors, not actually the people who truly wanted them. Sure there was everyone at the event who got them and then the die-hards who couldn't attend who fed into the eBay frenzy, but after that, all that's left are those who pass due to the price tag and those who just aren't interested in GL's head on an X-Wing pilot body.

The same is and WILL be true of the Vader.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on April 30, 2005, 11:04 PM
Someone seriously needs to kick Brian's Toys in the balls: C3 Vader (http://www.brianstoys.com/shop/customer/home.php) for $79.99.   >:(
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Nathan on April 30, 2005, 11:28 PM
:o  :-X  >:(

Can't say I'm surprised. ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on May 1, 2005, 11:05 PM
Is one of the giveaways "A Chance to Play Air Hockey with Matt?"  If it is I'll pass.   :P

That'd be a very wise decision Jay, since I kicked all their asses at it.  To be honest, Brent squeezed out a 7-6 decision against me once, but I smacked him around twice after that, and added Dave and Jesse2 to the ass kicking list as well.  Don't mess with my kung fu on the air hockey table, or you'll be sorry...  :P

Nice try sport, it was like this:

Game 1:  JediMac 7 Morgbug 6
Game 2: Morgbug 7 JediMac 3
Game 3: JediMac 7 Morgbug 3

You only won game 3 because you had one of your fellow staffers would my "stick" hand in a game between ours.  You probably had Dave drug my beer too, because not so coincidentally he bought the beer I had between games 2 & 3. >:(
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 2, 2005, 09:11 PM
Just look at this crap! (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2476&item=5971837434&rd=1) ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on May 3, 2005, 09:54 AM
Just look at this crap! (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2476&item=5971837434&rd=1) ::)

 ::) OOH, it's got an AFA grade of 90 - my heart's a flutter!  ::)
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: ruiner on May 3, 2005, 01:51 PM
This is a pretty cool figure even though it's a rehash (is that true)?  I can't put my finger on where this version of Vader came from...

Anywho, my 2 year old loves this darn figure!  He goes crazy everytime I remove it from the star case and he starts pushing the voice button, he especially loves the breathing sounds, it's funny when he does it!  - I must admit the sound quality is very good.

It's difficult to convey to him that he can only push the button - we always sit down together after a toy run and open up the figures - but not exclusives.

I'm getting off on a tangent, but last night I dug out the old POTF2 AT-AT and 12" TaunTaun and he went bezerk playing with them.  Can you believe the original batteries still work??

Wish I were still 2 years old - the AT-AT must look pretty cool when you're only 3 feet tall!

Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Nicklab on May 3, 2005, 09:55 PM
This is a pretty cool figure even though it's a rehash (is that true)?  I can't put my finger on where this version of Vader came from...

I'm pretty sure it's a rehash of the 25th Anniversary 2-pack Darth Vader.  Despite the 2005 stamp on the bottom of the foot, I'm pretty sure I'm correct on this.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on May 3, 2005, 11:41 PM
That was the consensus we reached in the JD nerve center during C3.  Jared unceremoniously ripped one open, very nearly killing five people by stroke, heart attack or a combination thereof.  Apparently the looks on our faces were rather priceless :o

But it sure as heck looked just like that 25th anniversary two pack Vader.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: SilverZ on May 4, 2005, 02:54 AM
Jared unceremoniously ripped one open,

As opposed to Colman, who often unceremoniously let one rip.  ;)

The figure is def the 25th Anniversary Vader, but someone less lazy than I should see if the headsculpt is from somewhere else. It looks like they popped a newer sculpt head on there.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on May 5, 2005, 07:56 AM
Just look at this crap! (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2476&item=5971837434&rd=1) ::)

 ::) OOH, it's got an AFA grade of 90 - my heart's a flutter!  ::)

I feel the same exact way.  ::) i hate the whole grading deal.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: jokabofe on May 5, 2005, 09:22 AM
Someone seriously needs to kick Brian's Toys in the balls: C3 Vader (http://www.brianstoys.com/shop/customer/home.php) for $79.99.   >:(

I'm not defending Brian's Toys - not by a long shot - but you can also blame all those people who were at C3, and had no intention of buying these Vaders... until they saw the signs that read "We are buying Vader for $35" on every other vendor table. Not for nothing, but if I was just a casual fan, and not a collector, I would have gladly went into the store, spent my $60 on Vader figures, and then turned around 5 minutes later and sold them for $120. Not a doubt in my mind. And I'm sure there were many people who did just that.

I had heard that GenCon was not allowing vendors to sell the Vaders at the show (even though I saw a few who were) but they also should have not let people put up signs saying they were buying them either. That just created more of a mess of people waiting to get into the store.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Nicklab on May 5, 2005, 12:14 PM
I had heard that GenCon was not allowing vendors to sell the Vaders at the show (even though I saw a few who were) but they also should have not let people put up signs saying they were buying them either. That just created more of a mess of people waiting to get into the store.


They did the same thing at Celebration 2.  While they allowed vendors to buy Jorg Sacul figures, they didn't permit them to resell them at the show.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: JesseVader08 on May 5, 2005, 12:22 PM
Well GenCon definitely didn't watch as close this time.   Those $60 to $80 prices were disgusting.  >:(
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DSJ™ on May 8, 2005, 01:12 AM
Just saw this auction posted at RS:

 CIII C3 Talking DARTH VADER VARIATION!! (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=5972985717&fromMakeTrack=true)

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Chris on May 8, 2005, 01:45 AM
Holy ****, mine are flame cut too!

 :-*
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: bobafett14 on May 8, 2005, 06:49 AM
No idea but mine is the same "flame cut" as this one.





Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on May 8, 2005, 09:09 AM
So are mine - I wonder if the ones that came from Shop.StarWars.com all have the "flame cut" sticker.

Does a straight cut sticker version even exist?
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on May 8, 2005, 09:33 AM
I have a flame cut, they are probably all that way.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on May 8, 2005, 03:48 PM
I'm thinking the variation is the straight cut, mine are all flame cut ::) :P
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DSJ™ on May 8, 2005, 09:33 PM
I would say you are right Brent. With just over 3 hours to go, this sucker is sitting at $202.50.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: evenflow on May 8, 2005, 09:57 PM
I'm thinking the variation is the straight cut, mine are all flame cut ::) :P

Thats what i was thinking.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Gatillo on May 8, 2005, 10:17 PM
I cannot decide who is the biggest goober.  The guy selling the figure with the sticker "variation" or the absolute jackass paying $200 for a "$20" piece of plastic.
Gatillo

I just checked me two Vaders from shop.starwars.com and they are both "flame" variations.  I feel even sorrier for the buyer.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Pete_Fett on May 9, 2005, 03:35 PM
You know what - even if the difference is that the straight cut sticker was on the versions sold actually at C3 and the flame cut ones were the ones sold at shop.starwars.com - who the heck cares? It's not like the sticker has a solid background so you can noticeably SEE how it was cut - it's flame on clear for cyring out loud!
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Jayson on June 24, 2005, 02:44 PM
:o ALERT C3 vader available again to HS members :o

http://shop.starwars.com/catalog/product.xml?product_id=3416;category_id=349
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: DSJ™ on June 24, 2005, 03:50 PM
I wonder how many they had?

This product is currently unavailable.
Title: Re: Celebration 3 Figure: Talking Darth Vader
Post by: Morgbug on June 24, 2005, 05:05 PM
Meh, I have too many as it is.  Still haven't located those three missing backs.  They have to be in the package I sent to Dave (which is taking it's sweet time getting there).