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Collectibles => The Vintage Collection => Topic started by: speedermike on April 10, 2008, 05:28 PM

Title: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on April 10, 2008, 05:28 PM
Wow.  First the AT-TE and the incredible huge-o Falcon.  Hasbro has gone far beyond my wildest hopes for large scale items.  Lets just say these things sell really well, what other large items could they produce?

Will they still be gunshy about playsets using the excuse that only large vehicles sell?

As I said in am earlier post, Hasbro is catching on that there is some serious money to be spent on large, QUALITY items...maybe they want the people they've lost to MR and GG back!

Any thoughts?

The Sailbarge is the only big vehicle that I can imagine having enough playability to be considered.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 10, 2008, 05:39 PM
The Sailbarge is the only big vehicle that I can imagine having enough playability to be considered.

I agree.  It's the only "aggressive" type vehicle that could also double as a playset type setting within the body of the barge.  Plus it's the only larger vehicle I can think of that had enough screen time to warrent such a large vehicle.  It could also be in the CW cartoon due to Jabba's lil boy.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 10, 2008, 05:46 PM
I can already hear the seething rage from some people that a big item/vehicle/playset discussion is starting... oh wait, ARE getting some of this now, just as the faithful have been predicting. 

I'm sure we're going to have to wait and see how sales are on these, but it shows that Hasbro finally realizes there is demand for larger items in the 3-3/4 line.  Will we see a Sail Barge somewhere down the road?  Or a new attitude towards playsets?  We can certainly hope so.

Anyways, what we're clearly seeing here is that the whole "Hasbro will never make big items so quit wasting valuable questions about them in the Q&A's" crowd isn't as all-knowing as they try to appear to be, which is pretty damn funny. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 10, 2008, 05:49 PM
Plus it's the only larger vehicle I can think of that had enough screen time to warrent such a large vehicle. 

How long before folks start clamoring for a 6ft long $500 Star Destroyer ship/playset?   :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on April 10, 2008, 05:54 PM
I can already hear the seething rage from some people that a big item/vehicle/playset discussion is starting... oh wait, ARE getting some of this now, just as the faithful have been predicting. 

(snip)

Anyways, what we're clearly seeing here is that the whole "Hasbro will never make big items so quit wasting valuable questions about them in the Q&A's" crowd isn't as all-knowing as they try to appear to be, which is pretty damn funny. 

[seething rage]There's a difference between "big items" and "playsets," Choo.[/seething rage]
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 10, 2008, 06:01 PM
Agreed...  These are vehicles with immense play value to them, not a hallway, so I don't think there's really a comparison here.  Let's be realistic about it still. ;)  The Falcon's "close" to being a playset because it's interior is the place of many memorable scenes...  At its core though, it's a ship that was throughout the original trilogy and the focus of a ton of action too with it twisting, spinning, shooting, fighting...  TONS of appeal to all ages.

I still maintain though, if both this and the AT-TE are on shelves at the same time...  Which one does little billy ask mom/dad to buy him for the holidays?  I dunno...

There's not been many people I am aware of who said they'll never do this or that vehicle in the modern line...  There's been rumors of lots of "big ticket" items being on Hasbro's lists they'd like to try if the moment presented itself.  Hasbro's said as much, have they not?  Hell, didn't Hasbro themselves say they'd love to update the Falcon "at the right time"?  Is it really flooring people that it happened then, and it's got a ton of cool stuff going on with it too?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 10, 2008, 06:39 PM
Plus it's the only larger vehicle I can think of that had enough screen time to warrent such a large vehicle. 

How long before folks start clamoring for a 6ft long $500 Star Destroyer ship/playset?   :D

It worked back in the 80's with the U.S.S. Flagg (http://www.yojoe.com/vehicles/85/ussflagg/).  Not sure how much that sucker retailed for, but it's been 20+ years, so I think it's time for some larger vehicles.   :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: DoctorPadawan on April 10, 2008, 07:13 PM
It worked back in the 80's with the U.S.S. Flagg (http://www.yojoe.com/vehicles/85/ussflagg/).  Not sure how much that sucker retailed for, but it's been 20+ years, so I think it's time for some larger vehicles.   :)

The one and only time I saw it at retail (at a Wal-Mart), it was 100 bucks (99.something or other).  I only knew one kid who had it growing up, and he and I weren't friends for an entirely different reason. :)  I now have a friend (hi Dave!) who actually has one and I'm still impressed by it in every photograph I see. :)

As for other "aggressive" type vehicles, didn't Hasbro say in one of the Q&As at one point that they had done an in-house proof-of-concept of an action figure sized Turbo Tank?

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 10, 2008, 07:28 PM
As for other "aggressive" type vehicles, didn't Hasbro say in one of the Q&As at one point that they had done an in-house proof-of-concept of an action figure sized Turbo Tank?

I don't know about the Turbo Tank exactly, but I have heard that they mock up all kinds of things for "proof-of-concept" purposes but a lot of it never sees the shelves out of cost. 

Maybe someone who knows a bit more on the subject should share what he knows...  :-X
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: evenflow on April 10, 2008, 07:57 PM
I mentioned in the other thread i wanted the sail barge, but i would also like a more in scale sandcrawler.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 10, 2008, 08:00 PM
[seething rage]There's a difference between "big items" and "playsets," Choo.[/seething rage]

 :)

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 10, 2008, 08:11 PM
Agreed...  These are vehicles with immense play value to them, not a hallway, so I don't think there's really a comparison here.  Let's be realistic about it still. ;)  The Falcon's "close" to being a playset because it's interior is the place of many memorable scenes...  At its core though, it's a ship that was throughout the original trilogy and the focus of a ton of action too with it twisting, spinning, shooting, fighting...  TONS of appeal to all ages.

I still maintain though, if both this and the AT-TE are on shelves at the same time...  Which one does little billy ask mom/dad to buy him for the holidays?  I dunno...

There's not been many people I am aware of who said they'll never do this or that vehicle in the modern line...  There's been rumors of lots of "big ticket" items being on Hasbro's lists they'd like to try if the moment presented itself.  Hasbro's said as much, have they not?  Hell, didn't Hasbro themselves say they'd love to update the Falcon "at the right time"?  Is it really flooring people that it happened then, and it's got a ton of cool stuff going on with it too?

You may not want to admit it, but there's a valid comparison.  You said yourself that this is in a way, a playset.  And let's not forget that we're not talking about another $40 or $50 toy here, this is something immense. 

We're both pretty stubborn about this, but I'm pretty surprised that you don't think the fans are floored Jesse.   Read the Falcon thread... other forums, the GH blog, etc.  ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 10, 2008, 08:20 PM
Plus it's the only larger vehicle I can think of that had enough screen time to warrent such a large vehicle. 

How long before folks start clamoring for a 6ft long $500 Star Destroyer ship/playset?   :D

I'd find a way to get it... but I gotta say, that would probably be TOO BIG.   :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on April 10, 2008, 08:26 PM
Three words: Death Star playset. Like Owen's, but at retail-friendly price of course. That is all I need.  :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on April 10, 2008, 08:32 PM
A sandcrawler would be out of this world.    :)  I don't think it's 'aggresive' enough for Hasbro, though.  I do think the Turbo Tank stands the best chance of another giant vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rune Haako on April 10, 2008, 08:48 PM
(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/e/e8/MTT_Transport.jpg)

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/d/d2/MTT_side.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on April 10, 2008, 10:36 PM
Not sure how the most iconic vehicle now suddenly means that we'll now be getting playsets.  Especially based on long term failures and continual failures of playsets at retail.  About the only one that has a chance is a Death Star one, and I know they have made prototypes but outside of that...this doesn't mean the retailers are going to embrace more huge items hogging up shelf space
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Reid on April 10, 2008, 10:37 PM
(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/e/e8/MTT_Transport.jpg)

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/d/d2/MTT_side.jpg)

With Evolution Of Rune Haako pack-in figures I presume?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 10, 2008, 10:56 PM
(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/e/e8/MTT_Transport.jpg)

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/d/d2/MTT_side.jpg)

No offense, but this is an extremely boring vehicle besides the fact that it has a major battle droid outlet to deploy droids.  Can't see this happening IMO, though I wouldn't mind owning one.

Not sure how the most iconic vehicle now suddenly means that we'll now be getting playsets.  Especially based on long term failures and continual failures of playsets at retail.  About the only one that has a chance is a Death Star one, and I know they have made prototypes but outside of that...

Who said we're getting playsets   ???    The fact that a vehicle is large enough to look like a vehicle, yet still hold a "playset" inside is good enough for me.   :)

this doesn't mean the retailers are going to embrace more huge items hogging up shelf space

Look at TRU and their MR lightsabers...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 10, 2008, 11:04 PM
Not sure how the most iconic vehicle now suddenly means that we'll now be getting playsets.

Don't recall anyone saying it does?  Only that Hasbro is clearly looking at larger scaled items now, and if this and the AT-TE do well enough, they might look at further options.


Especially based on long term failures and continual failures of playsets at retail. 

I've heard that argument over and over, and to be honest it's getting weaker each time someone says it.  Why you ask?  Because all the playsets they've made so far are junk.  Give us something that actually looks cool, then if it doesn't sell, this argument will have more validity.  Until then what you're basing history off of is mostly pieces of plastic (http://img2.myfreecams.com/mfc2/images/emoticons/429.gif).


About the only one that has a chance is a Death Star one, and I know they have made prototypes but outside of that...this doesn't mean the retailers are going to embrace more huge items hogging up shelf space

First, regarding the huge items taking up shelf space, have you been to TRU lately?  Have you seen the MR lightsabers?  Or all the other huge items they carry?

And how do you know that the Death Star is the only one that would have a chance?  I'd say that's the "first" playset that has a chance, but if it were to do well then we might see more (Star Destroyer, Cantina, etc.). 

No offense, but if we all have a pessimistic attitude about playsets, it's going to look more and more to Hasbro like people don't want them.  And if that's Hasbro's perception, there's no way it's going to happen. 

I'd much rather embrace the possibility of something most every Star Wars fan want so see made than have a piss on it attitude.  We all should. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on April 11, 2008, 12:43 AM
No offense, but if we all have a pessimistic attitude about playsets, it's going to look more and more to Hasbro like people don't want them.  And if that's Hasbro's perception, there's no way it's going to happen.

I'd much rather embrace the possibility of something most every Star Wars fan want so see made than have a piss on it attitude.  We all should. 

"Lady, people aren't chocolates. D'you know what they are mostly? Bastards. Bastard-coated bastards with bastard filling. But I don't find them half as annoying as I find naive bobble-headed optimists who walk around vomiting sunshine." - Perry Cox, MD
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 12:47 AM
Of course you're annoyed Matt.  Which is why you always come back for more.   :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on April 11, 2008, 12:55 AM
Annoyed?  Nah.  Amused is more like it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 11, 2008, 02:50 AM
You may not want to admit it, but there's a valid comparison.  You said yourself that this is in a way, a playset.  And let's not forget that we're not talking about another $40 or $50 toy here, this is something immense. 

What's the valid comparison I "have to admit to" here?  That high-priced items equate a likelihood we'll get playsets?  There's absolutely no logic backing that up other than wishful thinking.  A $150 Millenium Falcon is still a $150 Starship...  It's a $150 STarship that was a focal point of no less than three movies.  A starship that has tons of action inside it, tons of action outside it, tons of flying and dogfighting scenes, and tons of harrowing escapes.  At the end of the day, instead of a cockpit that holds one figure, it's got a cargo hold that can hold a dozen figures, but it's still just a ship...  The only thing remotely "playset like" about it is that it has a spacious interior, but so does the AT-AT...  And the AT-TE as well.  I'd label neither a "playset" though, other than you can get inside them with kid hands and "play".  Had they done just the engineering section of the Falcon or something, then maybe there'd be something to discuss, otherwise there's nothing.

I think what the point is that's being missed here though, is this;

The Millenium Falcon is iconic...  It's a single, whole "thing", that Hasbro can put together in one package and market at little risk to themselves...  They can add awesome play features like firing rockets and guns, light-up headlights, light-up engines, sound effects, lots of room for little kid hands, but not too large for them to lift it, and all the other little things that will appeal to children (and big kids) on some level.  And they can say at the end of the day that this is a ship featured in three films, not some obscure off-the-wall hallway, doorway, room, crevice, nook, or whatnot...  They can justify any potential risk because the ship is an icon itself, and they can get the play features in there kids will enjoy, and ultimately they're not taking much risk at all by offering this item.  They've proven other big ticket items sell well because parents like to make their children happy at the holidays, and this is just a Star Wars example of the same. 

On top of that, it's as low-risk as it gets for a Star Wars item...  The only real risk is having it out alongside a Prequal Trilogy vehicle featured in a brand new cartoon.  I think that variable is still up in the air.

Quote
We're both pretty stubborn about this, but I'm pretty surprised that you don't think the fans are floored Jesse.   Read the Falcon thread... other forums, the GH blog, etc.

I think you're not quite understanding the point...  Are fans floored that this even happened?  If they are, they haven't kept up with anything in the news then.  Hasbro's said multiple times they're interested in redoing the Falcon.  They didn't say how, or when, but they've said it's a ship they wanted to revisit...  Are people floored by the quality?  That may be...  But the $150 pricepoint isn't "news" since we broke the DPCI number for the Falcon here some months ago actually before Toy Fair even.  We knew if indeed this Falcon was coming, it was $150...  With a 2 foot AT-TE on the table, one could guess the Falcon was going to be special just like Galactic Hunter's photos showed...  To me though, there's no surprise here or shock.  Maybe some shock at just how cool it is, but not that it was coming.

It didn't take a clairvoyant to predict this thing was on the table though...  The writing was on the wall for some time.  Nobody's doubting it's awesome and the pictures from GH were great...  But were there that many people who didn't see something good coming?  ???

Not sure how the most iconic vehicle now suddenly means that we'll now be getting playsets.

Don't recall anyone saying it does?  Only that Hasbro is clearly looking at larger scaled items now, and if this and the AT-TE do well enough, they might look at further options.

Didn't you imply it here:
Quote
I can already hear the seething rage from some people that a big item/vehicle/playset discussion is starting... oh wait, ARE getting some of this now, just as the faithful have been predicting. 

I'm sure we're going to have to wait and see how sales are on these, but it shows that Hasbro finally realizes there is demand for larger items in the 3-3/4 line.  Will we see a Sail Barge somewhere down the road?  Or a new attitude towards playsets?  We can certainly hope so.

I don't recall a group saying Hasbro would never do this or that large vehicle...  Playsets, people have only cited Hasbro's own responses on the matter that they aren't/can't/don't want to do them.  Vehicles though...  No.  And you did lump large vehicles and playsets together twice in this reply earlier in the thread...  You were equating them as one in the same, or at the very least "related" by price or size or something, when in fact they are not related at all.  And like I said...  Nobody "predicted" this...  The Falcon was on Hasbro's radar, admitted by themselves, because it's such an iconic ship.  And then our DPCI news broke that this was being considered, and then some rumors to follow that up, and all culminating this past week with the pictures Galactic Hunter got... 

No "predictions" that were being denied there by anyone.

I've heard that argument over and over, and to be honest it's getting weaker each time someone says it.  Why you ask?  Because all the playsets they've made so far are junk.  Give us something that actually looks cool, then if it doesn't sell, this argument will have more validity.  Until then what you're basing history off of is mostly pieces of plastic

That's just it though...  You think they're crap playsets.  Ask Hasbro if they think the Bespin Freeze Champer was "crap", or if the Episode 3 Mustar playset was "crap".  Bet you get a difference of opinion on "crap".  Your definition of "crap" is Hasbro's definition of what needs to be done to move that expensive hunk of plastic to people other than the handful of collectors who say they want playsets, but only want them on their terms.

That's all there is to it...  It's not a piss on it attitude, it's looking at what we've been told in the dialogue with Hasbro and realistically digesting it.  They're looking at options available to get playsets out to the public, but I think the phrase, "You can't please all of the people, all of the time.", comes to mind.  Something about the playset won't make someone happy, and ultimately it may not make enough people happy to justify the risk, so Hasbro just doesn't take the risk... 

There isn't a conspiracy against playsets, as I think everyone in here would love a hyper-accurate playset of the Death Star with decent size to it, and less "kid features" than previous playsets.  It's not that anyone's wishing we wouldn't get that, they're just assessing the evidence why we aren't getting that, and looking at it realistically.  I think everyone actually hopes they throw a curve ball with a cool playset some day.  I know I do anyway...  And I don't think anything is impossible, but I don't look at the vehicles we're getting this year as a sign Hasbro is now interested in rethinking their stance on playsets.  Vehicles sell better according to Hasbro, vehicles are more appealing to kids, vehicles offer more room for play features and action, and vehicles like the Millenium Falcon are iconic for the films while the AT-TE is a popular Prequal Trilogy design that is featured heavily in the biggest media event of 2008...  It's not coincidence then that both are getting expensive all-new sculpts.  The only surprise to me is that it's both in the same year and seemingly released at the same time too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: DSJ™ on April 11, 2008, 03:13 AM
(http://theswca.com/images-packa/comp-droids-whitewitch.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: evenflow on April 11, 2008, 06:53 AM
(http://theswca.com/images-packa/comp-droids-whitewitch.jpg)

A true dream come true!  :o  ;D I would love a white witch made.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 11, 2008, 09:24 AM
Larger At-At in a heartbeat.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on April 11, 2008, 09:42 AM
I agree with Scott, Jesse, and others.  If Hasbro is going to go the big vehicle route to test the waters, they really couldn't have picked a better option with the Falcon.  Its probably the best known vehicle from the entire Saga, alongside maybe the X-Wing and TIE (which both have "larger" models already), and most everyone (even non hardcore fans) know what it is.  The AT-TE has been much requested by fans since AOTC, plus - as said - it looks to figure heavily in the Clone Wars, which helps even more.

Will this lead to more big ticket items?  If they sell well, I'd say most definitely.  Like the feature on the main page today, things like that Butterscotch pony already helped this - and I think things like the good sell through on the Imperial Shuttle and UBPs at Target helped too.  I'm in the group that would love to see playsets return as well (especially the Death Star), but I'm not sure if we're quite at that point yet or not.  I do think we might continue to see a trend of new, better/scaled versions of some of the OT vehicles though.  Hasbro's mentioned things like the AT-ST and Snowspeeder in the past, and those might come eventually (obviously not the same size as the Falcon or AT-TE, but this direction of things).  I'm with those who would love to see the Sail Barge be Hasbro's next item in this big item line, but it would definitely be a riskier one for them I'd think.  It would be really cool though, and something I hope we see.

As far as playsets go, it seems like lately Hasbro has mentioned in a number of Q and A's about looking into the cardboard route (and the article today at JD mentions this as well).  I wouldn't be surprised if we see something like that in the not-to-distant future.  I don't know how spiffy it would be being all cardboard (and plastic would be better), but some of the smaller POTF2 ones weren't all that bad and I would certainly think it would keep costs down.  We'll see.  Heck, I may be in the minority, but I've always hoped they might use some of the vintage molds and "redo" some of the vintage sets (the Dagobah, Ewok Village - and of course Death Star come to mind).  I mean, new ones would be better, but I wouldn't mind seeing an updated version of the smaller Dagobah set - with some new paint and upgraded "foam", similar to what they originally did with the vintage vehicle molds.  Same basic mold, but it looks better.

A smaller side note, I'm with Jesse (and others) who think this might be a risk to have both the Falcon and AT-TE out at the same time.  With the shelf space they would take, and the current makeup of store aisles, I can't see these sitting long (or in a large capacity), so it might really force people to choose one or the other (I might have to do this too, if I can't save up enough by then).  If they had spaced them out a bit, they probably could have gotten people to buy both of them - or even multiples of the AT-TE for people with the budget for that.  I really hope we get some confirmed info on this, so we all know what type of budgeting to do for later this year.  And we thought the 2nd half of last year was crazy!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 11, 2008, 10:43 AM
I think trying to compare the release of the new Millenium Falcon to the playset concept is erroneous.  It's definitely two seperate concepts, and I think that while the Falcon looks awesome, has a great overall size and includes a good number of play features, it is in fact more vehicle than playset. 

And I daresay that this is something that Hasbro knew that they could hit out of the park.  They picked this particular battle very carefully.  Because when you think of Star Wars and vehicles, I think most people would identify the Millenium Falcon before they would mention the X-Wing or TIE Fighter.  We're dealing with an incredibly iconic vehicle that's part of the modern cultural lexicon.  Almost anyone who's been exposed to modern movies will know the Millenium Falcon.  So to release this Falcon at this time seems like a well calculated risk.  I think it might have originally been intended for a 2007 release, but perhaps there was some kind of production delay that held it up.

Now do I have concerns over how the AT-TE might fare from a sales standpoint?  Yes, I do.  Having 2 $100+ items on the shelf at the same time is a gamble, even with one featured prominently in the new animation and the other being a cinematic icon.  But given the trends of what Star Wars collectors will spend on higher end items such as offerings from Gentle Giant, Sideshow and Master Replicas, these vehicles might be decent sales performers.

But how might this translate to larger items in the future?  I think the sales numbers from this year into 2009 will dictate that.  I can almost assure that we'll see the Falcon and AT-TE reissued down the line so that Hasbro can attempt to maximize the investment on the tooling for these vehicles.  But can this lead to other big ticket, large items?  That's very uncertain.  I think the list of candidates would be very short.  I can rattle off The Death Star and little else at the moment.  At least in terms of an iconic level of appeal.

The collector/fanboy in me would love to see the following things offered.  But the likelihood of that happening?  It seems somewhat slim:

-MTT
-Imperial Sentinel Class Landing Craft
-Tantive IV
-Star Destroyer
-Naboo Star Skiff
-Theta Class Shuttle
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 10:57 AM
The whole comparison is that they are looking at larger scaled items.  If these do well, I don't think Hasbro's going to all of a sudden believe that it's time for a super duper playset, but it will show them that the market is willing to purchase the big ticket items.  And if that's the case, they *might* explore further big items outside of vehicles.  Is it just wishful thinking?  Perhaps.  But why rule it out?

Some many not see the Falcon as a risk because it's so iconic, but when you're looking at a $150 ticket item in the 3-3/4" line, Hasbro's clearly taking a risk because it hasn't been done before.  If this price holds, it's triple the price of the old Falcon.

The kind of playset that many of us want aren't little $20 - $40 tiddly wink playsets (which is what Hasbro has produced, and most have been crap, but whatever).  If they actually had produced something that was a nice playset and it didn't sell, then yeah, I'd say say their old philosophy is right - playsets don't sell.  Have they ever said that good playsets don't sell?  Not that I've seen.

We're seeing a new approach from Hasbro on vehicles.  So who's to say that this is the limit of what's possible?  Five years ago we NEVER would have thought they'd give us an all new Falcon - who's to say that five years from now that they won't be delivering more surprises? 

The title of this thread is Big Items of the Future, not Big Vehicles of the Future.  It's a conspiracy.   :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 11:09 AM
From the front page article -

That's not all though. Hasbro's not deaf when it comes to playsets, and they've looked at ways to bring them to the public for years. Yes, the beloved Death Star has been on Hasbro's mind for some time, and they've seemingly struggled to find an economically feasible way to bring a nice Death Star playset to the masses.

So... why are we arguing about it being possible they're looking at playsets more? 


But how might this translate to larger items in the future?  I think the sales numbers from this year into 2009 will dictate that.  I can almost assure that we'll see the Falcon and AT-TE reissued down the line so that Hasbro can attempt to maximize the investment on the tooling for these vehicles.  But can this lead to other big ticket, large items?  That's very uncertain.  I think the list of candidates would be very short.  I can rattle off The Death Star and little else at the moment.  At least in terms of an iconic level of appeal.

I'm sure we're going to have to wait and see how sales are on these, but it shows that Hasbro finally realizes there is demand for larger items in the 3-3/4 line.  Will we see a Sail Barge somewhere down the road?  Or a new attitude towards playsets?  We can certainly hope so.

^ ^ ^ That's pretty much the point that I've been trying to make, but it's been perceived by some that I'm saying that this automaticaly means playsets are coming.  I said no such thing.  It depends on how the Falcon and AT-TE do sales wise, and then Hasbro can gauge whether or not they want to explore other high ticket items, such as playsets.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on April 11, 2008, 02:34 PM
heh heh, settle down fellas. No need to get all riled up at each other.

Back to the thread topic...

However realistic these dreams are of being made, I'd liek to see:
MTT-with a nice rack that holds 24 battle drodis of more
Turbo Tank-this would be a great vehicle/playset mix Lots of room for gunners and other clones inside. Big enough to use as a toy chest of sorts
Sail Barge-far and away a huge vehicle that could have many features to it. It too would hold many figures and could triple as not only a vehicle, playset but also a toy chest.

and yes playsets.
OT:
Cantina
Death Star (modular or all in one, just give us something of quality!)
Dagobah
Jabba's palace chamber (with rancor pit underneath)

PT:
Theed: Palace/hangar/final duel  (All in one set)
Senate chamber-and make it in such a way that the previously released pods can attach to it!
Jedi Temple: Council chamber area, padawan map room, overhead walkway, steps leading up to it (All in one set)
Palpatine's office
Mustafar:Command center (where Vader kills the CIS leaders), shield arm, lava flow area (where we can place the lava droid and platform on)
Utapau: Hangar/Greivous ship platform/wheelbike road with stalactite and stalagmites (All in one set)


This is just getting started, I could list many more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 03:58 PM
I like your list Sal.

Out of all the prequel locations, I'd say the most likely would be Palpatine's office... it's such an iconic prequel location.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 11, 2008, 04:14 PM
I agree that big items would have to be truly iconic like the Falcon for Hasbro to take any kind of risk putting it on store shelves.  Now, the Falcon is the least amount of risk they could do...and they will get a good return on it, you have people like me who really don't collect anymore who will be looking for this!

Other vehicles that Hasbro could consider:

-AT-AT (perhaps) -- They re-released the updated vintage mold so much, and it did relatively well each time that it might be worth a gamble.

-Turbo Tank -- If these make a big appearance in the Clone Wars cartoons I could see one being produced, otherwise I doubt it.

-Star Destroyer -- If they did a "new Falcon" type of thing with a Star Destroyer it might work and some retooling of a design could give us PT and OT versions, but it's a bit of a stretch.

-Sail Barge -- Doubt it...I know many collectors want it, but it was in less than 10 minutes of one movie.

As far as playsets, again for Hasbro to take a risk on these you would have to use something iconic and the Death Star is truly the only one that comes to mind.  I'll agree that the POTF2 versions that they came out with were crap, so Hasbro would have to do something big, that has an equal amount of play/diorama value.  Sorry Sal, but some of the way you were describing playsets were more of a diorama heavy idea and I can't see Hasbro doing those but I could see:

-Cantina playset (hell the vintage one was great, an updated version with perhaps sound effects of the cantina theme, lightsaber and blaster fire as well as some of the lines would be possible)

-Star Destroyer -- it might work as a playset if the vehicle idea doesn't...only because the Star Destroyer is almost as iconic as the Falcon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 04:16 PM
AT-ST should be on their short list of vehicles to redo, I think.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on April 11, 2008, 05:20 PM
(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2655/icanhas100palpateenoffiep9.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 05:37 PM
Already got me one! (http://www.owenscustoms.com/palpatinesoffice.html)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 11, 2008, 07:19 PM
As nice as that is, you won't see anything like that from Hasbro.  There's absolutely no play value to it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 11, 2008, 08:50 PM
Other than perhaps an opening door and a "shattering window" or something, you're probably right.  I wish they'd outsource the rights to dioramas or whatnot to a company like Sideshow.   :-\
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: darthchuckmc on April 11, 2008, 09:30 PM
Other than perhaps an opening door and a "shattering window" or something, you're probably right.  I wish they'd outsource the rights to dioramas or whatnot to a company like Sideshow.   :-\

I think he meant the cat had no play value....the palpys office playset is what's gonna get kids age 5-11 back into action figures and off the XBox and youtube....you know it, I know it, heck, even that cat knows it!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 12, 2008, 01:35 AM
Ummmmm...no.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 12, 2008, 01:39 AM
I'd say the Sailbarge has more chance than a Destroyer as a "vehicle" Hasbro would tackle, however as much as I want the Sailbarge, Hasbro's not likely to tackle either I think.

The reason I think the barge works better though is because it's more action-oriented and interacts better with figures.  All the Jabba goon figures out there, Leia's deck gun accessory, attaching chair rail gun accessories, etc.  There's play value there that the Destroyer really doesn't have...  Destroyers are, like you say, more like a playset, and fairly dull from a toy perspective.

Sailbarge though, you've got railings, ropes, guns-a-plenty...  I'd love one, but I'm nowhere near hopeful on that, and even then I'm not hopeful on one to-scale like I'd want.

What a time to put out the skiff again though! :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 12, 2008, 02:15 AM
I think the Sail Barge will have a decent chance if the Falcon does well.  If the AT-TE does do well, but the Falcon doesn't, I don't know.  Hasbro might see it as interest only being in prequel toys in terms of large scale items.  It definitley wouldn't be in scale, but neither's the new Falcon and it seems like the majority of folks are happy with what they see.

Rehashed skiff?  Not a bad idea at all, though I'd prefer a new, larger one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 12, 2008, 10:03 AM
Larger Slave 1 as well...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on April 12, 2008, 10:14 AM
I could see the Turbo Tank happening.  It could be like the Lego one, and completely open up to reveal a command center/jail/med centter...whatever you want...Speederbikes...lots of play possibility.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 12, 2008, 01:49 PM
Agreed.  The turbo tank is something that I think we might see if:

a) the AT-TE does well

b) it appears in the Clone Wars series
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 12, 2008, 11:03 PM
Larger Slave 1 as well...

I don't consider certain items to fit this category well...  A larget AT-ST could be done now and not be $100.  Same with Slave 1 and most Starfighters even.  Slave-1's pushing it though, but still it's nowhere near huge...  AT-ST though, the thing is mostly air so that's one I'd love to see done right (to-scale).

I'm not counting on Hasbro to redo fighters and whatnot...  Some they've already done right, some I'd like to see improved though.  Y-Wing and X-Wing I'd love to see scale versions of.  Hasbro seems content with what they've done on those though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Daigo-Bah on April 13, 2008, 09:25 AM
The AT-ST I definitely see happening; after all, I modified the existing one and got a fairly screen-accurate version:

(http://threads.rebelscum.com/photogallery/data//1451/atstout4.jpg)

The Sailbarge... I don't think they'd make it large enough to do it justice.  It would probably be a case of the Sandcrawler: great paintjob, horribly underscaled.  I made a Sailbarge as a diorama more than a vehicle:

(http://threads.rebelscum.com/photogallery/data//1451/sailbargenew2.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: evenflow on April 13, 2008, 09:54 AM
Very cool Sail Barge, awesoem work!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Daigo-Bah on April 13, 2008, 10:33 AM
Thank you!  Here's another pic:

(http://threads.rebelscum.com/photogallery/data//1451/sailbargerearnew1.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 14, 2008, 12:55 PM
You made that quite a while ago, right?  I remember drooling over pics of it a couple years ago.

Will Hasbro ever make a Sail Barge?  I think it's doable.  The POTC ship was pretty big and was only about $60 at stores.  Maybe Hasbro could pull something off in the $100-$140 range.  Wouldn't be to scale, but just having one that looks cool is better than nothing at all.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on April 14, 2008, 01:17 PM
The sail barge is boring compared to the AT-TE and Falcon.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 14, 2008, 01:27 PM
You think so?  It's my favorite scene in ROTJ actually.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on April 14, 2008, 01:28 PM
Compared to the play value of the Falcon and AT-TE? 

Yes.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on April 14, 2008, 03:50 PM
We had another family over for dinner last night. We were talking about star wars toys because their five and seven year olds are totally into star wars. I should them pictures of the new Falcon and AT-TE. The kids where totally all over the AT-TE and didn't seem to care about the Falcon. My son, who is eight, said he would rather have the AT-TE over the Falcon because he could put his clones in it.

My point is I have a feeling that the AT-TE will out perform the Falcon in stores this Christmas simply because kids are more familure with the prequals and Clone Wars stuff over the original triliogy stuff. We will buy the Falcon but the kids will want the AT-TE. This will leave a ton of Falcons on the shelves and Hasbro shying away from any large OT ships or playsets once again. Too bad the Genosians didn't build a prototype Death Star during the Clone Wars.  :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CloneF13Y35 on April 14, 2008, 04:47 PM
my son wants   both, but he likes Empire, Sith and New Hope the best, he likes the Clone Wars video game better than AotC so that's why he wants the at-te but since he likes ep 4 &5, he really digs the falcon too. man it's gonna be an expensive fall. glad I finally got a job ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on April 14, 2008, 06:32 PM
Will Hasbro ever make a Sail Barge?  I think it's doable.  The POTC ship was pretty big and was only about $60 at stores. 

It also had the benefit if being in three major movies in a very prominent role, plus was in the title of the first flick.  The Sail Barge, not so much...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JangoTat on April 14, 2008, 07:16 PM
In regards to kids liking the PT more so i dont think thats true. I was at TRU two days ago and i had two cases were kids were looking for OT characters. one kid was looking through every figure for an R2 and a Han. And when i was checking out I had a kid and his parent in front of me asking the front cash if they had any of the OT characters. Sadly the women at cash had no clue what they were talking about and even worse all they had was EU and PT stuff on the shelf.

I the end though I always find the younger kids into OT while some of the older ones into PT. heck my cousins are 7 and 5 and they both prefer OT over PT and I (the only one in the family that couldve influenced them into watching it) didnt even watch it with them or tell them anything about the movies prior to viewing it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: darthchuckmc on April 14, 2008, 07:25 PM
I agree that kids DO like the PT more than OT. Working in a Toy Department for 5 years now, I've seen more than my share of kids and parents looking for or saking for particular characters.
 I do get the occasional "Where's Luke?", but it's mostly asking for Clones, Mace or Yoda (w/ lightsaber)...
Hell, today I had a Mom ask why I didn't have any JAR JAR BINKS figures! I am NOT making that up to be a smartass either. She was a little pissed, and asked if those Collector guys bought them all up already this morning. I politely explained that he hasn't been out since ROTS 3 years ago, but she could probably get him cheap on eBay.
 My own kids (14 & 12), prefer the PT even though they were born watching the OT, until they were 5 & 3. Once TPM came out, they were hooked, and think the OT is "boring" now....except for the saber duels that is.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 14, 2008, 08:27 PM
Will Hasbro ever make a Sail Barge?  I think it's doable.  The POTC ship was pretty big and was only about $60 at stores. 

It also had the benefit if being in three major movies in a very prominent role, plus was in the title of the first flick.  The Sail Barge, not so much...

Wow I love the negativity!   :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 14, 2008, 08:54 PM
I'm a huge Sailbarge advocate (real big, real expensive), but I agree with Adam's assessment that as vehicles go it's not comparable to the Black Pearl since it really is a secondary or even tertiary vehicle.  The thing it has going for it is it's a central piece to a large portion of action.  There's lots of features possible like opening doors, spring floors to eject figures off the vehicle, spring-action guns on the deck, ropes to swing from, etc.  To that end it's comparable in design to a pirate ship type toy for sure...

I think there are other vehicles they'd look at first, and to be honest I think they'd look to the prequals before doing another larger-scaled OT vehicle.  They're more recent, more relevant to younger collectors and the parents who supply them, and there's probably more appealing choices for "large" vehicles in those films.

What I'm more hopeful on is maybe resculpts of starfighters, Slave I, and other vehicles that are currently underscale, but aren't so grossly huge that a scale version of them is out of the question.  AT-ST, Slave I, Y-Wing, etc., and I'd love a scale version of any of those...  PT vehicles though, you can almost sense Hasbro's drool on the possibilities if that AT-TE does very well at retail...  Especially with a form of media support for it acting as a half hour or hour long commercial.  Droid tanks, Juggernaughts, EU vehicle designs, etc.  That's where I think they're gonna be looking.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 14, 2008, 09:50 PM
I agree that Hasbro will be looking at prequel vehicles next if they even look at doing anymore at all.  But if they do something OT related, I can't see much really being that interesting in terms of large vehicles past the Sail Barge.

Tantive IV - I suppose this is possible, though I'm more interested in getting a hallway for Rebels to get their asses kicked my Stormies.  Maybe if they did something it could have a section that comes off and reveals the main hallway and a few other rooms.  I'm sure that the logistics of this are possible, but I doubt we'll ever see it.  One thing that the Tantive does have going for it though is that we see it in ROTS too.

Sandcrawler - As much as I'd love to see a new bigger version, I don't see it being exciting enough to warrant a $100 or so price tag.

Imperial Landing Craft - Maybe this could be made.  They might be able to reuses some parts from the Imperial Shuttle (wings) to making it happen.

AT-ST - Very doable.  I'd be surprised if we didn't see a new one actually... would have been great if they had made a new one for the Force Unleashed game, then reused it with correct ROTJ cannons.

Rebel Transport - I'd like to see one.  But it's boring as hell. 

Sail Barge - Other than the AT-ST (which really isn't that big), I'd say this would be very exciting and would do well enough at retail.  Or, of course, one of these days we *might* see a $150 AT-AT that's new.  Which of course would make me giddy with excitement.


Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 14, 2008, 09:57 PM
A scale AT-ST I don't even consider a large vehicle...  It's just not big.  Like Starfighters or speeders, it's nothing I'd put in this category ($100+ vehicles).  It's doable for much, much less.  And it's even doable in relatively small packaging and less shelf space.  To me the AT-ST done right is a no-brainer at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on April 14, 2008, 10:00 PM
Well, you never know-- the Sail Barge could end up being prominent in The Clone Wars.   If a Clone touches it, I'm sure it'll turn to gold.  Eventually.

In ROTJ, the sail barge didn't do much-- a fat guy was choked on it, and some stuff happened on the top deck.  There aren't a lot of neat rooms or compartments like the Falcon/Star Destroyer had.  I'm not saying I wouldn't like one, but there really isn't all that much to it that came from the first 30 minutes of ROTJ.  You've got some fighting on the upper decks, a place for Jabba and his cronies to sit, and maybe something to go swing to a skiff.  Oh, and some gimmick to allow Luke to crawl up the side and throw a guy out, plus at least one giant cannon on top (that we already have).  If they can find a way to stuff a pair of skiffs inside, now that'd be pretty significant.   It's awesome but lacks "oomph."   Hasbro's shown such poor support for The Mighty Jabba since 1995 that I'd be genuinely astonished to see this item come happen without having significant TV-era support expanding its role (and capabilities).  

Or you know, giant fan outcry, which is always good to have. :)

It really is a shame more big ticket ships didn't get more screen time in the six movies.  I mean, there's the Star Destroyers, and some of the fighters, but beyond that most of the big ships were blink-and-you'll-miss-it creations.  I blame the flanneled one for not giving his art department's awesome hardware creations more screen time.  Here's hoping television gives all these classic ships the support they need to make our next obscene toy purchase.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 15, 2008, 09:11 AM
In regards to kids liking the PT more so i dont think thats true.

I would be inclined to think that's true as well. It's definitely true in my household and my 8 year old, without any prompting from me even. But then again, my daughter thinks Mark Hamill is cute.  :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on April 15, 2008, 09:30 AM
Like everyone else, I'm in the camp that would really like to see the Sail Barge made.  Sure it wouldn't be to scale or anything, but even something pretty large would be cool (heck, I'd like to see the Skiff re-released, just because I missed it, but maybe that's an idea for an UBP).  Also, like others have mentioned, I don't know how likely it is - at least right away.  If these big ships (Falcon/AT-TE) sell like gangbusters, I'm sure we'll see more large vehicles - probably starting with the PT stuff mentioned already.  Then, down the road, maybe we'll see Hasbro consider something like the Barge.  It does have a lot of action on it in the movie, even if it is for a fairly brief period of time.  If it appears in the animated/live action series in any capacity, that can only help.  I personally hope it happens, but time will tell.  I do think that we'll see some of the re-done OT vehicles that people have been mentioning.  We've seen Hasbro mention the AT-ST specifically in some Q and A's I believe, and I think that might already be in the works (I think they've mentioned the Snowspeeder as well).  With them pumping out a lot of these with the older mold again in recent years, maybe that was the last "hurrah" before all-new versions are released.  I hope so.

On the subject of kids liking OT vs PT, I do think they like both a lot, but its just the fact that the PT is so much more visible right now to kids.  The majority of figures/figure waves seem to be focused in that area (ROTS in particular), the movies are the most recent and ones they could have seen in theatres, and now the Clone Wars series will make that era even more accessible.  I do think a re-release of the OT in theatres some day could really help that though.  You have to figure that unless their parents are at least minor fans, they may not have ever even seen the Original Trilogy.  At least its back on TV now, so maybe that will give some kids the chance to see it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ben on April 15, 2008, 09:02 PM
I'd like to see a Sail Barge too, but I'd rather have all-new versions of the AT-ST and Tatooine Skiff. I like my Target exclusive one, but if they wanted to make a nice $40-50 version that could hold all the requisite figures and have a pack-in Weequay that has the Master Sev head on it, I'd buy one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on April 16, 2008, 05:55 PM
I have sat out this one for a while (I think my position may be known already...) but I think it would be a safe bet that if the Falcon does well, we will see a big-honking Death Star the next Christmas.

There are only a few items Hasbro has gone on the record about wanting to do. A more accurate X-Wing (which we got in '97,) a larger, modern Falcon (which was developed I'm sure as a labor of love more than anything and will be out in July?) and a new Death Star.

Jesse's story last week mentioned the new chipboard Death Star mock-up that Hasbro apparently has already developed, and there was concept art for a 3-foot tall plastic Death Star playset planned for POTF2 that was revealed at Celebration III.

A Death Star will come, it is the last big iconic piece left for them to do that they really really want to do. If we buy into this huge Falcon (and we will, won't we?) it only makes sense. Then, if they want to, they can rerelease the Falcon with ESB quotes and new pack-ins for the next holiday, and then a Death Star II the year after that. And what comes next? Why, ROTJ-quoting Falcon with Lando and Nien Nunb figures. And so on forever.

I can't imagine them ever making a Sail Barge or--my personal most-wanted--a Cloud City. Maybe rereleasing the vintage Ewok Village as someone's exclusive (or as a Galactic Heroes item as was recently whispered in their ear in the QnAs). Otherwise I don't see them tooling any more big-ticket OT items after the Death Star in '09.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 16, 2008, 11:44 PM
Regarding the Sail Barge, I think we are going to have to take a wait and see approach that will be strongly based off the success of the Falcon, but also with what we see in the live action TV series.  We don't know what's going to appear in it.  I have a feeling that we will see Tatooine in that series though so if that's the case, I wouldn't rule out the Sail Barge appearing too, which will really increase the chances of it being made. 

So I don't see 2009 as being a make or break year for the last hurrah for large scale OT items being made... why not 2010?  Or 2011?  Any reason you throw out 2009 as the year Muftak, or are you just speculating (which I often do)?

Regarding the Death Star, I think it's coming at some point.  I just hope they do it justice.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on April 17, 2008, 12:37 PM
I can not believe they have not done something with a Death Star/Playset in the modern era.  I know they have had plans or mock-ups, etc.  But they still have not brought anything out yet.  Yeah, they did those lame Chasm and Detention Block sets and that has been it.  I suppose the garbage compactor diorama could count?

All they really have to do is something like that vintage Palitoy set but make it a bit nicer.  Maybe give it a plastic shell to cover it.  I don't know.  I am not a toymaker but it just seems like by now they could have come up with something, anything.  It's crawling with Imperials and the main characters of the film.  I would think they would have been all over it by now.  Practically any kid that watches ANH on video would be salivating to get one.  Oh well.   

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on April 17, 2008, 02:02 PM
Any reason you throw out 2009 as the year Muftak, or are you just speculating (which I often do)?

Speculating, but based on the fact that they have the Death Star plans already (though not in the main computer. ;) ) and if they can sell a Falcon with no media tie-in then they know they can sell the Death Star. They will feel the need to top themselves after their marketing success, and this is the only thing better than a Falcon.

Need proof? What was the big-ticket item in the Star Wars Transformers sub-line for 2006? And what was the big-ticket item for 2007?

I base my opinions on OT tie-ins only. On the possibility of the Barge in the Clone Wars, I still doubt it would get made before a Turbo Tank. For that matter, we are speculating dangerously close to the live-action show timeline, and who knows what will show up there. More than likely some form of Star Destroyer, possibly even the Death Star itself.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 17, 2008, 03:33 PM
Death Star for sure Muftak.... I am very confident it will show up in the TV series.  It's already been mentioned some in The Force Unleashed that the Death Star will make an appearance... hee hee
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on April 17, 2008, 03:36 PM
Death Star for sure Muftak.... I am very confident it will show up in the TV series.  It's already been mentioned some in The Force Unleashed that the Death Star will make an appearance... hee hee

Well thanks for spoiling this for me. Cripe, I'm not going to get the game now, thanks to that bit of new. Gees, way to bring things down....You do of course realize I'm joking here, right?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ctonra on April 17, 2008, 04:17 PM
there was concept art for a 3-foot tall plastic Death Star playset planned for POTF2 that was revealed at Celebration III.

Does anyone have a picture of this?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 17, 2008, 04:32 PM
Death Star for sure Muftak.... I am very confident it will show up in the TV series.  It's already been mentioned some in The Force Unleashed that the Death Star will make an appearance... hee hee

Well thanks for spoiling this for me. Cripe, I'm not going to get the game now, thanks to that bit of new. Gees, way to bring things down....You do of course realize I'm joking here, right?

Crap!   ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 17, 2008, 04:35 PM
there was concept art for a 3-foot tall plastic Death Star playset planned for POTF2 that was revealed at Celebration III.

Does anyone have a picture of this?

I don't believe a picture has ever been leaked...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 17, 2008, 04:36 PM
The only pics I remember... (http://www.rebelscum.com/gallery/c3/unproduced/default.asp)

(http://www.rebelscum.com/gallery/c3/unproduced/C3unproduced%20037.jpg)

During the panel they said that particular version never got any further than that drawing...


During the panel they also had some pics of an abandonded Dagobah Playset idea...

(http://www.rebelscum.com/gallery/c3/unproduced/C3unproduced%20029.jpg) (http://www.rebelscum.com/gallery/c3/unproduced/C3unproduced%20030.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 17, 2008, 05:33 PM
Thanks for the reminder Jeff, I had forgotten about those.

Looking at them, those are pretty far off from what I'd like to see, so I'm glad they didn't release the Dagobah one at least.

The Death Star one looks massive.  I wish we could get a cleaner shot of that concept pic.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on April 17, 2008, 05:58 PM
I perfer the vintage  Dagobah playset over that one. The Death Star one looks interesting. It reminds me of the Micromachines playset version. What do you think that is? 3ft x 3ft?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on April 17, 2008, 06:58 PM
That was what they said at the time, IIRC.

Looking at it now, I realize that each level is in fact a different planetary environment. I can easily pick out a removable Tatooine, Hoth, and Dagobah scene, as well as a hangar with a TIE fighter parked in it.

It's not what I would envision at all, but I would be giddy as a schoolgirl to be able to purchase one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ctonra on April 17, 2008, 09:04 PM
Thanks Jeff
it looks cool
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 17, 2008, 10:24 PM
IIRC, there was a different modern Death Star playset that was shown at a Celebration 2  collecting panel.  It was definitely different from the one shown at C3.  But I can't recall where I saw images of that one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 7, 2008, 10:57 AM
From the latest rumor list at www.rebelscum.com -

Vehicles
And here's a rumor from waaaay out of left field....but assuming the "BMF" (Big Millennium Falcon) sells well enough, word has it we may see some kind of Star Destroyer vehicle/playset.

As with any rumor list, take this all with a grain of salt, because it's not official, and may just be idle speculation. But that's part of the fun of being a fan, isn't it?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on May 7, 2008, 11:45 AM
Consider the source first....

Hasbro while now being open to big vehicles have still not shown us the move towards playsets, especially one on that scale.

Take it with more than a grain of salt indeed. I hope it's true, but I won't hold my breath for it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on May 7, 2008, 12:18 PM
It definitely makes one feel optimistic.  Especially in light of both the AT-TE and Millenium Falcon. 

The optimist in me thinks that Hasbro has done some serious market research on what adult collectors are willing to pay.  How so?  Well, how many of us are pouring some serious cash into other Star Wars licensees?  The large LEGO sets are not cheap.  Gentle Giant offers some high-end product.  As does Sideshow.  And a common thread among collectors of these lines is that they probably got their start in collecting Star Wars through either Kenner or Hasbro.  But as they've grown along with their income levels, what they're willing to spend on the hobby has grown as well.

But the pessimist in me looks at the retail landscape.  What can the market bear with large items like these?  Retail space is always at a premium, even with Star Wars iconic status as a licensed property.  Just look at how much or how little space is afforded to Star Wars right now in both Target and WalMart stores.

I think the most telling indicators will be how well both the AT-TE and Millenium Falcon sell this Fall.  If they're a hit, then I think it makes something like this rumored Star Destroyer that much more likely.  I also think that given the incredible fascination amongst army builders with all things Imperial that this particular item seems like it would be much more popular than something like a Sail Barge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on May 7, 2008, 12:29 PM
I think it's waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too early to start with this rumor, but I could be wrong.   :-\
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jayson on May 7, 2008, 12:34 PM
I think it's waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too early to start with this rumor, but I could be wrong.   :-\

I agree. Even if it does pan out, I think I would ultimately pass due to cost and the whole scale issue.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on May 7, 2008, 01:26 PM
You'd pass if it were $150?

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jayson on May 7, 2008, 01:37 PM
At this point, without seeing it, I have to say yes.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on May 7, 2008, 03:31 PM
I'm still hoping for a modular Death Star playset. Make the Falcon hangar the centerpiece of the playset with interlocking rooms, hallways and elevator shafts. We can choose to connect them how we want. This would give us more choice especially if we are limited on room. So while I've been a proponent of having several small modular playsets for the DS, I'd be happy with an ALL-IN-ONE set, if we are able to take it apart and reassemble it as we see fit or have need to.

I do see $150 at least if done this way and done right. I'd go for that price too, but again, no skimping here. It's got to have great detail, high playability, and for those that need it, able to be modular.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 8, 2008, 09:20 AM
I've always been an advocate for the modular DS playset. There's just so much possibility.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on May 8, 2008, 09:30 AM
I've always been an advocate for the modular DS playset. There's just so much possibility.

That's how Iook at it.

Also, Hasbro could make attaching hallway pieces cheap so we could expand on the set. long and short and curved hallways. Blast door, elevator shafts, these too would help in building up a big "playset" if we chose. These shouldn't be retail however as they'd take up space. Make them online exclusives or specifically HasbroToyShop.cm exclusives.

I still contend that smaller room add-ons would be excellent. Red control room (see above the hangar), trash compactor room, prison cell, conference room would all be a way to expand on the set. The Falcon Hangar would be a centerpiece. The Emperor's throne room, would be the "crown" that would fit over top of it all. I don't think it's feasible to have these all in one set however as it would be expensive. So if this is to be an all in one set, I'm really crosses my fingers that it includes some elements of each area listed about. But undoubtedly that just won't be enough for all of us.

It's stilll early and hopefully Hasbro is taking note of all of the discussions on the various forums. Using that to "get it right." Of course there will never be a way to make us all happy, but they an try to make the majority happy.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on May 8, 2008, 10:27 AM
Yeah there is never going to be an "inscale" Star Destroyer or Death Star or playset from a toy company (USS FLAGG from GIJOE is about it).  All we can hope for is something fairly big to hold some decent scenes from the film and maybe a few extras like that flying thing with the Falcon.   No way in hell are they going to release an inscale $300-500 vehicle.  I would expect something around $150.  However, people are already whining about the price of the Falcon.  So, they can't really go any farther than that price or scalewise.  It would never move off the shelves and they would end up screwing themselves. 

Now this is the 2nd or 3rd time Rebelscum has mentioned people go out and pay the full price on the Falcon if we want to see other big stuff like this made.  I don't know if that is all speculation on their part or they have actually heard a rep from within say "on this all depends".  I am leaning toward the latter and makes sense really.   

Hasbro does seem to be moving toward more play environments recently.  Those Endor and Hoth big battle packs.  Even the Bantha with Sand People.  Now it appears the Disturbance at Lar's Homestead has the big dome.  It sounds like they are trying to head that way.  I say about freaking time.  I have about 500-600 figures sitting on a shelf or a table with really no place to put them in a Star Wars environment that most of them should be in.  You can only do so much with a $20 Jedi starfighter and cardboard cutouts, etc. 

I will be honest.  I am all but done buying Star Wars figures.  Occasionally I buy something that I don't have like the upcoming Yarna, etc.  So, I am willing to throw some money at a nice Millenium Falcon and AT-TE.  I can finally put the clones in something as well instead of in formation behind a Jedi general as fun as that is.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 8, 2008, 11:14 AM
Nice to see more positive speculation on this.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on May 8, 2008, 12:12 PM
Now this is the 2nd or 3rd time Rebelscum has mentioned people go out and pay the full price on the Falcon if we want to see other big stuff like this made.  I don't know if that is all speculation on their part or they have actually heard a rep from within say "on this all depends".  I am leaning toward the latter and makes sense really.  

Rebelscum isn't the only site that's mentioned this.  I've seen a good number of mentions about this at Galactic Hunter as well.  And I think there's been A LOT of talk about waiting for items to go on clearance on a number of collecting boards.  People have grown accustomed to the way that Target in particular handles their markdowns, and seem ready to pounce once things go on clearance.  It's almost predatory.

I can certainly appreciate when anyone has a collecting budget that they're trying to stick to. Most people have a finite ammount of cash to spend on the hobby.  But when you systematically wait for EVERYTHING to go on clearance I think it affects things negatively.  It affects the retailer.  They're less willing to take a chance on Star Wars if things only sell on clearance.  And in turn Hasbro can potentially suffer if they don't get the orders.  And that could lead to collectors suffering by not getting the items that they'd really like to see.  I see the potential for a negative, cascading effect that could ultimately impact collectors. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 8, 2008, 12:27 PM
Yep - I can certainly understand having a tight budget, but if people really want to collect the bigger items, I wish they'd all put their money where their mouths are rather than waiting for clearances.

In my opinion, we're getting closer and closer to seeing Hasbro create some sort of kickass playset that will make our jaws hit the floor.  Whether it be a Star Destroyer or a Death Star - who knows.  But Hasbro clearly has a new philosphy in their 2008 push with larger items (and even the Lars homestead). 

The more we show interest in these sort of things - whether it be through our pocket books, discussion in the forums, Q&A's, create our own dioramas and post images, etc., the more of a chance we're going to see Hasbro look at ways to make these items available.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on May 8, 2008, 04:40 PM
The more we show interest in these sort of things - the more of a chance we're going to see Hasbro look at ways to make these items available.

(http://i16.tinypic.com/8fl2la8.gif)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on May 8, 2008, 04:42 PM
If the Falcon is successful and they want to repeat that success, they very well could be looking at doing a companion ship in the Star Destroyer. Sort of the big good guy/bad guy ship dynamic.

Three feet long, with a detatchable top and hollowed-out center featuring Darth Vader's Bridge with crew pits and computer stations. A separate area with Vader's meditation chamber. Sort of the Kenner playset on steroids (which, of course, is exactly what the BMF is too.) Launching misslies, light-up engines, movie sounds ("No disintegrations!" "You are in command now, Admiral Piett!").

It would fail, I think, because while the fans are pumping their fists in victory over a 50% scale Falcon, there would be distaste for a 5% scale ISD. Instead of "I can't wait to shell out $150 for that" it would be "I can't believe they expect me to buy that!"

It would wind up sitting, and that would kill the big-ticket stuff again.

I have complete faith that we will see a Death Star before the end of everything, but I would believe a three-foot Star Destroyer toy would postpone it indefinitely.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on May 8, 2008, 04:50 PM
I think it's waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too early to start with this rumor, but I could be wrong.   :-\

I agree. Even if it does pan out, I think I would ultimately pass due to cost and the whole scale issue.

Sounded more like someone tacking on their own wants to a rumor list from another site, more than anything.

As far as a Destroyer goes, I have little interest in anything unrealistic looking, so I'm not really into this, without seeing it of course.  If this were real and delivered a scale Destroyer pit or some such, maybe...  Ultimately though, with a scale $100 AT-TE and a 2.5' Falcon for $150 this year, I see a Destroyer being much less interesting/appealing.

As far as clearance goes, I think if you truly want the stuff that badly, by all means pay full price...  If you're wishy washy on it, wait for clearance because you ultimately don't care.  If you're on a tight budget, think about what you want the most and stick to the budget as best you can.

The markets dictate if this stuff works at retail or not, and if everyone's waiting for clearance than there simply isn't logic to continue it IMO, and my life doesn't end or continue based on whether it's made or not.  I'm much more vehement about figures getting made than larger ticket items, but there's some I'd love to see if they were done right (to me anyway) by Hasbro...  A truly modular Death Star for instance would be something I'd be real happy to see done, but nothing I've come to expect.  A Death Star that fits into a scaled down sphere that opens up though?  Not so much... 

I totally get where sites are whoring the notion that "if you want it, pay for it", though.  If you don't, you're only shooting yourself in the foot.  I wanted an AT-TE to-scale and I'm getting it, so no waiting for me.  I'm still deciding on the Falcon and likely will decide when I finally see it.  Throw out scale Y-Wings, X-Wings, B-Wings, Snowspeeders, AT-ST's, Speederbikes...  I'm there buying full price. ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 8, 2008, 04:53 PM
Muftak, I think a Star Destroyer could do just fine if it's done in a realistic style.  Instead of focusing on making it a vehicle make it more of a display piece... if they try and make a Star Destroyer anything like the vintage one, I'd pass.

I've already got a nice custom one that was made for me -

(http://www.yakface.com/toyguide/dioramas/chewie/11.jpg) (http://www.yakface.com/toyguide/dioramas/chewie/12.jpg)

- but I'd sure as heck be happy if Hasbro went in this sort of direction with pieces like this one (http://www.owenscustoms.com/Executor.html).  I'm not sure if we'll ever see it actually happen, but I'll always be in support of this style... a more adult/display style of playset.

We don't really know how it would do however until something like this is actually made though of course... but that being said, a Death Star would most certainly be a better move for Hasbro I'd think... as long as it wasn't set up to fit into some sort of sphere like Jesse pointed out.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on May 8, 2008, 05:43 PM
  People have grown accustomed to the way that Target in particular handles their markdowns, and seem ready to pounce once things go on clearance.  It's almost predatory.


I think, for the most part, collectors pay full price for their SW merchandise.  In the case of most exclusives, if you try to wait until they hit clearance, you run the risk of not finding the item and then have to resort to secondary ebay prices which can be almost twice the regular retail price.

When I see something I want, I buy it.  I don't get a lot of chances to 'shop' so it's actually beneficial for me to pick something up the minute I see it.

With all of that said, I think the retailers (namely Target) are a little quick to clearance some items out.  Look at the Order 66 packs - they're great values at $10 and have some cool characters in them. 

I don't think Target gives their exclusives enough time to sell through at regular retail. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 8, 2008, 06:11 PM
I agree ruiner... it seems for the most part collectors are willing to pay full price for most things... I heard a lot more talk of people waiting for clearances prior to ROTS toys, but since 2005 it seems like demand has increased quite a bit for Star Wars toys.

Case in point, I think that the Falcon would have pretty much bombed if they had tried to release it 5 years ago.  But for some reason, now the timing seems right. 

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: clonebuyer111 on May 14, 2008, 03:43 PM
wow! that custom star destroyer scene is so cool! how did he make the computers?

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on May 15, 2008, 12:15 PM
With computers.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 15, 2008, 02:21 PM
With computers.

With styrene (http://www.lyzrdstomp.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=216&Itemid=1).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on May 15, 2008, 03:13 PM
With computers.

With styrene (http://www.lyzrdstomp.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=216&Itemid=1).

styrene computers?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 15, 2008, 03:36 PM
Well... since I own that piece... looks like styrene to me.  :P :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on June 21, 2008, 05:29 PM
In this weekend's Q&A sessions, Hasbro shot down the idea that they are working on new Star Destroyer (http://www.galactichunter.com/absolutenm/templates/full_article_template_1.asp?articleid=7293&zoneid=2) or Death Star (http://www.jediinsider.com/index.php?catid=8&itemid=11143) Playsets.

- We have no plans to pursue a Star Destroyer playset.  It is simply not feasible for us to do.
 
- We can confirm that no Death Star playset is in any stage of development, and nothing has progressed beyond some "what if" discussions and the few models that we created back in 2005. We will not be doing this, at least in the next several years (we still don't know what live action could bring so we won't say never). While some might look at the Millenium Falcon as a ray of hope that we could bring out a Death Star someday, the tooling on a playset is much, much more onerous and not a realistic possibility unless there is current entertainment support to engage kids in the set.


So... time for a survey.  What do you guys think?

A)  Phoney-Baloney!  They are working on them for next year, but they are trying to keep it quiet like they did with the Falcon and AT-TE!

B)  They are working on them, but taking things slowly and waiting to see how the Falcon and AT-TE do at retail.

C)  I believe them when they say they're not working on them anytime soon...  but maybe someday.

D)  For the love of god, they will never ever make new playsets so please shut the hell up and never speak of them again.



(I vote for B  ;))
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JangoTat on June 21, 2008, 05:55 PM
I vote C. As much as I would want a Star Destroyer  I know that what ever Hasbro would make will still be vastly out of scale and not worth the price.

Although I loved how they mentioned the live action show. Considering it has been stated that Imperials WILL be in the show and it takes place during the contruction of the DS the chances of them created one is slim but still there. I know they would not release it right away but maybe in a couple of years.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on June 21, 2008, 07:10 PM
Quote
C)  I believe them when they say they're not working on them anytime soon...  but maybe someday.

I'm voting C...  I think Hasbro honestly does NOT have the interest in playsets that they convey, and I think the Falcon and AT-TE will have to do so well at retail that they're two almost-impossible-to-find items for people.  They'd have to literally be "scarce", and while I love the items coming, I don't foresee them being scarce...

Unless they're not ordered heavily at retail, who are themselves a tad gunshy.  That could happen, but still I dont' think that scenario would be enough for Hasbro to fully commit.  They'd need ordered at just about every retailer that carries SW product, and sell through quickly I think, for them to truly even begin real consideration of the really big ticket playset people dream about...

Putting the Destroyer aside, I think the Death Star would be the go-to item here...  We'd mentioned in a story a couple months back or so about a chipboard Death Star that DOES come up on Hasbro's table now and then.  I think they look at it, and put it back routinely.  Or so goes what was heard on the matter.  And they don't even look at it in the context of what people say they want and would sell...  they look at cutting material costs, they look at play/themes...  They don't look at 8 stackable cubes that represent accurately the sets from the film.

I guess my guess is C with a twist...  C, but with the idea that Falcon and TE would have to sell not just well, but amazingly fantastically well, for them to truly look at it and think, "well we could try ______, because it's big and important, and everyone knows it". 

I'll be honest though, I'm still not hopeful on this one.  I think I'll keep my stackable death star custom plans on the table for myself.

Almost anything that is from Star Wars, short of some stuff like Holiday Special things or whatnot, seems to come up on the table...  That's why I question how much of the latest rumors circulating are truly "rumors", and how much of it is more, "here's a bunch of characters we haven't gotten, or haven't been redone yet" type of a situation.  I think they're equally possible, to be honest.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on June 21, 2008, 07:53 PM
I'm starting to think that the Falcon might be the tie-in from the films to the TV show.  Maybe the lead charcater is the Captain...we know the ship has been around 20-30 years before ANH.

That way, when the show hits, they can use it again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on June 21, 2008, 10:31 PM
I'll say B.  It would be stupid for them not to keep their options open.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 22, 2008, 10:09 AM
A little bit of A and a little bit of B. They could have some ideas in the design stage ready to go full steam if the Falcon and At-Te do well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on June 22, 2008, 09:18 PM
My thoughts on this run a little from a b and c.

"a" in so much as I remember reading an interview with Mark Bourdeaux (sp?) back in '98 where he said he was working out ideas for an FX-scaled Falcon to go along with the FX X-Wing that had just come out, and that the team's long-term goals included updating all classic vehicles that way. If the Falcon has been in the process for ten years, and if Hasbro has been denying it for the past year while cranking up the factories, then I don't see how we can put any faith in QnA denials at this point. A Death Star concept (or at least one) has been worked out, so the fact is we are past the planning stages.

'b' because the model exists and if the line shows that it can support a big hundred-dollar-plus non-tie-in item this year, they will try it again. Until it fails.

"c" because they haven't slotted a spot or geared up any tooling for a Death Star playset yet.

I expect the Death Star to be much more die-cut cardboard with printed on details than full-blown molded plastic wall and floor pieces. A few accessories that can be rehashed as figure pack-ins, a couple of interesting figures, and you've got your hundred dollar set.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on June 22, 2008, 10:41 PM
I think there's the potential that something could be in development.  But I think there's going to be a wait and see kind of attitude from Hasbro over the next 6 months.  I think they're going to want to see how well the Falcon and AT-TE perform at retail before any other large items winds up getting greenlighted.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on June 23, 2008, 09:57 AM
I'll optimistically say B as well, although I can see Jesse's point of view of things as well.  After all the denials in Q and A's the past couple years about the Shuttle, Falcon, etc., I don't know how much stock to put in these sort of answers anymore.  We've seen several times that there are "discussions" on a Death Star playset, so I think that its definitely on their radar - and it depends a lot on the sales of the Falcon and AT-TE.  From all indications on the forums here, those should both sell pretty well, but we'll see I guess.  Like others have said, if we get a Death Star, it will likely be a combo of cardboard/plastic or other types of things, and not a full plastic type thing.  You never know though.  I could see a $100-$150 item (with pack-ins and a couple of figures), and they should probably release it for a Christmas item.  I hope we see something like this happen eventually though.  Heck, I'm probably one of the few, but I'd be fairly happy if we even saw a redo of the vintage playset.  I know its far from screen accurate and all of that, but I always wanted one as a kid and the vintage ones aren't usually cheap (or complete) on ebay.  An all-new one would be darn spiffy though too.  I just really have a hard time believing they aren't working on some sort of idea like this, especially after seeing that LEGO version last week - Hasbro has to be at least thinking about it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on June 23, 2008, 12:19 PM
My heart wants to say B, but my gut says C.

I still think it can be done. But again I point to this being not just one set, but several and are modular.

I've broken this down before, but I'll do it again.
2 large sets (Hangar where Falcon was and the Emperor's throne room-no not his toilet...heh heh)
a few medium sized sets: Conference room, Red Control room, trash compactor, detention block
then several connectable (and modular) hallways: Long, short and curved. These coming with one of those semi circular "bumps" that you see on some of the walls. Those bumps may or may not be connected ccording to the CONSUMERS choosing. SO you could not use one in one hallway then double up in another.

Costs for these sets would be $60 large sets, $30-40 medium sets, $15-20 hallways.
The hallways would be easy to do AND all of these sets would be plastic. No cheaping out with chipboard, cardboard, etc.

I know the idea of Death Star hallways is not exciting to some, but think about it, it's where some of the best action took place...Vader/Obi wan's fight. Han's chasing then being chased by stormies, etc.
Making it so that the hallways can connect the medium and large sets allows the consumer to build their Death Star how THEY want to. But at the least Hasbro would know that most people would go for the large and medium sets. So they'd still make a profit. The hallways are almost an afterthought and becasue they are essentially the same be they short, long or curved would be easy to manucfacter and at minimal cost.

In they end if you got even one of each set you'd spend at least $150. Add in a few hallways to connect them all and you're talking $200. Not a bad investment. Stores don't have to stock some ginormous item either so that's a draw.

I think Hasbro needs to be approached by someone who has a plan all laid out and can show them how not only would it be feasible but profitable.  I believe it's both. (But given hasbro's tude about this, I'm still inclined to pick C as my answer).

Please Hasbro, see the light of day. The Death Star CAN be done!


Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ctonra on June 25, 2008, 02:25 PM
jedi_master_sal
                     That would be an aswume take on how to release the DS.  I would add to help sell the hallways add a figure to it.  maybe an astro unit, DS Droid or Mouse Droid,  or Troops, Stormie, Imp Commanders or Pilots.   
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on June 25, 2008, 05:56 PM
jedi_master_sal
                     That would be an awsome take on how to release the DS.  I would add to help sell the hallways add a figure to it.  maybe an astro unit, DS Droid or Mouse Droid,  or Troops, Stormie, Imp Commanders or Pilots.   

True enough. A figure to a hallway would help draw in people to buy them. Though that would undoubtedly drive up the cost, with the plethora of repaints out there, Hasbro could do this with minimal cost. Droids would certainly be a way to do this. Hmm, the clear domed Blue R3 Unit would be cool to get in one of these sets. ( http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Unnamed_Death_Star_I_R3_Unit )

I'm thinking with the other sets there could be exclusive figures as well.

Emperor's throne room: The other two Imperial Dignitaries not yet made
Falcon Hangar Bay: Two SA Scanning crew members
Red Control Room: SA Imperial Lieutenant
Trash Compactor room: Dianoga or "wet" Luke
Detention Block: head sculpt specifi Imperial officer "Where are you taking this thing"
Conference room: Pick one of the officers not yet made, or make a new SA Motti (he sorely needs a new figure, instead of that gawd awful "can't miss if it you've got your eyes closed" elbow hinged figure we have now.


Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on June 25, 2008, 05:59 PM
Death Star - B.

Star Destroyer - C.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: manglord on June 25, 2008, 08:34 PM
I say "C", but hope and pray for "A".
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on June 26, 2008, 11:00 AM
I just think it is odd they do not try to get something Death Star related on the shelves.  I would think any other toy manufacturer would be drooling to put a decent Death Star playset out there, but not Hasbro.  I know they sort of attempted sets from years past but those were pretty bad.  But whatever.  At least we got a nice Falcon and other vehicles.    I would just think a Death Star set would be a no brainer. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on June 26, 2008, 05:00 PM
Think about this though...

$35 for a pretty simple sounding dome with some random crap thrown in...

What do you think you're gonna get, cost-wise, for a Death Star playset?  Will you pay $35 for a small hallway?  And I'm not talking anything even remotely elaborate, but rather something "simple" made up of a couple pieces...

The Hoth turret's nice to me and I'd shell out $20 for another one if it had a couple repaint figures with it (a droid, and a repainted trooper if they make a decent one, let's say for argument's sake).  I wouldn't pay $35 for the tower though...  I love it, but I won't pay $35 for it.

Now imagining what it is people say they WANT in a Death Star...  You're gonna pay a ****load more than $35 for it.  And you're not likely getting figures either.  Or if you do, it'll be one, and it won't be anything special.

I think we're seeing some of Hasbro backing up the things they say with this upcoming Lars Homestead dome issue...  You're getting something that is surely "simplistic".  A couple pieces it seems...  Nothing flashy.  And you're gonna pay $35 for it.  The Falcon, I think, is simpler than people are even giving it credit for...  If you look at it closely, they cut down on as many individual parts for it as they could.  The interior's like a single-piece insert, etc.  And it's still $150.

Again I'm not saying a DS playset isn't ever going to happen, and that it's not a cool idea...  And like I've pointed out before, I was championing a stackable/modular Death Star many, many years ago as a concept that I thought would "work" and make everyone happy...  Ultimately though, I don't think Hasbro will deliver perfection at the price people (lots of people) are willing to pay.  Some, perhaps, but I think the majority will either be disappointed in the quality, or the overall cost to get it.  Would a chipboard "dome" thing work for you?  Would a $35 6 inch section of hallway work for you?  I dunno... 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 27, 2008, 09:47 AM
Too bad things didn't pan out with Sideshow doing playsets. :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on June 27, 2008, 01:40 PM
Too bad things didn't pan out with Sideshow doing playsets. :(

No offense Ant, but I'm glad they didn't. SSC's playsets would cost MUCH more than I'd be willing to pay. That and no doubts they'd do some stupid exclsuive thing that we all couldn't get if we wanted therefore alienaing more fans.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 28, 2008, 09:30 AM
Great points Sal and I tend to agree, but all the same, they'd probably be better than the playsets we don't have.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on June 28, 2008, 08:22 PM
Great points Sal and I tend to agree, but all the same, they'd probably be better than the playsets we don't have.

No doubts there, but the demand for these are for Hasbro offerings. SSC would be limited in how many they an make, hence art of the price increase. Besides, I contend that playsets need to get in the hands of kids just as well (as we collectors). SSC just doesn't have that kind of manufacturing capability to meet that need.

Again, I'm sure they'd produce quality product, just not enough to meet the full need and not a price most would be happy to pay for it (I'm taking into account parents in this, especially those who are not SW collectors.)

I see your point Anton. I just don't agree that SSC could do this right and make it available and affordable to all who should have a chance at getting them. So in that, I don't think they should try it.

(And no worries Ant, we can respectfully agree to disagree on this point.)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on July 2, 2008, 01:02 PM
It COULD be Vader´s Executor, but it needs to be huge

Hasbro could release a Star Destroyer by parts to join an connect them,(yes it would be expensive, but we should think about it), for example one part with the bridge and technicians, other with a briefing room for commanders and officers like Ozzel, Piett, other parts with the holograph and meditation chamber
if we can connect several parts, I hope both internal and external features must ve well designed, the turret, guns, etc.

It would be 3 parts or a giant ship.

It is a project

if this wouldn´t be nice, there should be some playsets to connect them with the above features.

So, take part in this discussion and express your concept for a star destroyer :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Simdog on July 5, 2008, 07:58 AM
The next big item will be either the larger AT-AT or the Slave 1.

Both iconic vehicles.

The Tie, X-wing, and now, falcon are all nicely sized.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on July 5, 2008, 07:52 PM
new big Death Star I and Death Star II playsets, like the throne room duel, the bridge where Luke and leia jumped, a new jabba palace with interconecting parts, etc.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 6, 2008, 01:05 AM
The next big item will be either the larger AT-AT or the Slave 1.

Both iconic vehicles.

The Tie, X-wing, and now, falcon are all nicely sized.

I don't see them making another Slave 1.  The retooled Saga version(s) are pretty good IMO.  I could see a new AT-AT or AT-ST down the line.  What I'd like to see is a new Cloud Car.  They haven't made that thing since the 1980's.

I also think a modular Death Star could possibly work, but I think that would be a tough sell.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 6, 2008, 01:30 AM
I honestly don't know about a Death Star.  It's definitely one of the most iconic environments.  But would Hasbro possibly retread some ground that they've already covered?

These are the sections that I think would make for a comprehensive Death Star:
-Trash Compactor (already done as a screen scene)
-Light bridge (done in POTF2)
-Detention block (done in POTF2)
-tractor beam station
-turbolaser station
-blast doors
-docking bay
-command center

I think that most of those could be done in a multi-level playset.  Is it likely?  I don't know.  I think we need to see how well the new Falcon sells.  But I also don't think a docking bay would be feasible in that format.  That's where my own plan comes into play.

I think a Death Star docking bay might be cool on it's own.  And I think it can be done with a combination of plastic and cardboard pieces.  The cardboard can act as the floor and some of the wall segments, but the main wall anchors would be plastic pieces.  One being the blast door near the site of Vader and Obi-Wan's duel, another being the alcove where C-3PO and R2-D2 hide, and the third being a generic hangar wall.  And given the ability to fold the cardboard, it might be made big enough so that you can have a place to land the BMF Falcon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 6, 2008, 09:45 AM
The retooled Slave one was pretty good, but it's still way too small. Big enough to fit three figures in the cockpit  would be perfect.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 6, 2008, 09:59 AM
The retooled Slave I will fit 3 figures in the cockpit, albeit snugly.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 6, 2008, 10:05 AM
What about a Dagobah playset? That seems like something that they could do by resurrecting the vintage Dagobah playset with some new pieces and an updated paint job.

Could even make an Ultra Battle Pack out of it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on July 7, 2008, 02:43 AM
What about a Dagobah playset? That seems like something that they could do by resurrecting the vintage Dagobah playset with some new pieces and an updated paint job.

Could even make an Ultra Battle Pack out of it.

Not quite an ultra set though as I could only see:
Luke
R2
Yoda
Spirit Ben
Vader
Swamp monster

there were no other beings present (not including snakes)

so pack in Yoda's hut and it's still not an ultra set. Include maybe the Dagobah X-wing from this and you've got something a bit better. Oh and maybe the shuttle that Yoda took to the surface from ROTS...

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on July 9, 2008, 07:31 PM
Yes a Sailbarge should be a great playset/vehicle
I hope someday we could see one from Hasbro
Only I wish it has good 3D details instead of stickers (stickers are good but not in excess)
This virtual sailbarge will need room for Jabba´s throne, cockpit, guns, windows, and a nice detailed outside and inside of the toy. It would be a challenge for toy sculptors. :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on July 29, 2008, 10:06 AM
So if Adam May is right (in his currrent blog), which would you buy - a large AT-AT or Slave 1? I could see the AT-AT being in the same box size as the AT-TE. It could be as long as the AT-TE with the legs disassembled. Slave 1 could be in a large box like the Falcon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 29, 2008, 10:11 AM
Adam May has updated the Galactic Blogger (http://www.galacticblogger.com/blogger/) today with some interesting discussion on future "big" items and redos.  The Death Star, Slave 1, and AT-AT are mentioned...more at the linky.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on July 29, 2008, 10:24 AM
Death Star playset eh?  Hmmm... can't help but get a smirk on my face if it comes true.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on July 29, 2008, 12:58 PM
Not to sound like a moron, but he's confirming the Death Star, Slave I, and AT-AT?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on July 29, 2008, 01:22 PM
Not to sound like a moron, but he's confirming the Death Star, Slave I, and AT-AT?

That someone inside Hasbro is considering it for release in some stage of preproduction?  Sure.  That sort of thing happens all the time.  Doesn't mean it'll see the light of day.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on July 29, 2008, 01:27 PM
Sounds like it.

Well a modular Death Star Playset is something I've been campaigning for, for years now. I know it's not official until it comes from Hasbro, but with so many leaks previous to this about other things, I'm more inclined to believe Adam May this time.

Some of my long time dreams that I've campaigned for have come true. AT-TE, Homing Spider droid to name two of them. Playsets are starting to make their way back in some form-Sarlaac Pit, Lars Homestead.  So really, can a DS playset be all that far off? I hope not. No way do I want an all-in-one though as that would be way to much money at once. The BMF, AT-TE and other vehicles from 7/26 were quite enough at once, thank you. A planned modular DS set, will pique our interest, keep us collecting and won't take up a huge amount of room all at once. This idea also gives us time to plan for a large set when combined as well as lets us build it in pieces at lower costs than an all-in-one. We can pick and choose which sets we want (though many will get all of them).

Anyway, I could go on and on about this topic. Bring it on!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on July 29, 2008, 02:28 PM
Anyway, I could go on and on about this topic. Bring it on!

You're not alone Sal.   ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 29, 2008, 05:45 PM
I personally am not that interested in buying a super deluxe version of the AT-AT at a high price point.  The current versions are good enough in my opinion.

I'm also torn on the Slave I.  I feel that the existing versions are good enough, but then again I'm not a huge Fett fan.

However I would be all over new Death Star playset(s) and other huge new vehicles.  $150 Super deluxe Star Destroyer?  Yes!  $150 Super deluxe Blockade Runner?  Yes!  Heck, I'd rather have a Rebel Transport over a new AT-AT or Slave I.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on July 29, 2008, 05:57 PM
The Slave I and AT-AT really aren't too exciting. Sure, the current versions are underscale, but these are two vehicles that I just can't see myself buying scale (huge) versions of at a high price point. :-\

The Death Star could be really awesome though, especially if it's modelled after the vintage playset.

I'm still hoping for a Blockade Runner. Now that would make me happier than a pig in ****. :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 29, 2008, 06:01 PM
I think a new AT AT would be pretty awesome if they did it right.  Like, a big enough body that the head could hold 2 figures and be to scale...  It'd be real tall though.

I'd rather have a sailbarge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Reid on July 29, 2008, 06:49 PM
Now that would make me happier than a pig in ****. :D

You know, you're allowed to swear here at JD, this isn't RS.

As for big items, I think a to-scale AT-ST and a larger AT-AT would be great. I know it's a longshot, but I'd also like to see an Imperial Sentinel-class landing craft.

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/5/5e/Sentinel_btm.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on July 29, 2008, 10:44 PM
I agree with Rob, I really want to see a Sail Barge.  Just imagine how nice that would be, and the ability to display Jabba's goons on it. Wow.

Also, a Death Star playset is obviously high on my list... I do NOT want to see a vintage remake though.  That would be a major letdown for me, I want something that looks like it's from the films.  Similar to the Lars Homestead and Sarlacc, but of course on a grander scale. 

The AT-ST is also up there for me.  Not the AT-AT as much as the others, but I'd get it of course.

Slave I - no thanks!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on July 29, 2008, 10:57 PM
The Slave I doesn't do it for me, either.  After seeing the BMF, I am curious to see what a new AT AT would look like however.  My wants are more modest, though.  A new snowspeeder is kind of my big thing.  Or not so big thing.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 31, 2008, 12:00 PM
I'm sure the information is available online, but I was wondering - roughly how large would a more accurate Slave 1 be compared to the previous (AOTC/repainted OTC) version?  I know Jesse has mentioned it before, and he's the scale expert, so maybe he knows for sure.  If we got an all-new BMF Slave 1 in the next year or two, are we looking at a $60 item, $80, or in the $100 AT-TE range?  I know the current version is underscaled, but how much so?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on July 31, 2008, 12:07 PM
I'd rather have a sailbarge.

Hells yeah!

14 point yellow text represent!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 31, 2008, 02:13 PM
It depends...  I'm not a Slave-1 expert but it could be a fair size to be to-scale if measurements I've seen are right.  Thing is, eyeballing it in ESB makes me think it wouldn't be any larger than the AT-TE's hull really.  It looks fairly small, just "bulky".

Often times measurements aren't accurate though, from source material, so I'm reluctant to go by the listed measurements, but I'm not positive on the model's scale from the film.  That's usually a better gauge.  Slave-1 in AOTC looks pretty small though.  Just look at Jango boarding it as it takes off from his battle with Obi-Wan.  Not a big craft.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on July 31, 2008, 02:20 PM
Looking at Jeff Russell's Starship Dimensions web site, Slave 1 comes in at 21.5m while the Millenium Falcon comes in at 26.7m. If the Falcon were to scale, then you could pretty much take off the front teeth of the Falcon to get the length of Slave 1. They have a picture of the two side by side if you click the 10x tab.

Jess Russell's Starship Dimensions (http://www.merzo.net/)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 31, 2008, 02:23 PM
There's no way though the Falcon and Slave 1 are close in size...  Comparisons just visually in ESB show a significant difference.  A scale Falcon is a monster.  Completely unrealistic/unfeasible...  The prop at "Where Science Meets Imagination" is close to action figure scale, and it's the size of my dining room table. ;D

Slave 1 = dinky by comparison...  That's why I never go by "listed specs" on ships.  Model comparison is always the route to go first. 

AT-AT's are still listed at 15.5 meters tall in most books, and that's a good 6 or 7 meters off their actual height according to the films.  Listed specs often suck, but LFL never changes them (or rarely does) for whatever reason.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CorranHorn on July 31, 2008, 04:52 PM
Slave 1 = dinky by comparison...  That's why I never go by "listed specs" on ships.  Model comparison is always the route to go first. 

do you mean the set models used in the films or the models used for the flying sequences? the former would be accurate for a size comparison, the latter wouldn't work since with all the blue screening, the flight models could vary in size drastically.

flashing back to all those "to scale" discussions of the past...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 1, 2008, 12:55 AM
It depends what you want to go with...  The Slave-1 didn't have a full set model as far as I know, just boarding ramp things.  I'm guessing the AOTC ship was actually CGI'd into scenes rather than part of a set.  It doesn't look 100% to me anyway.  I'm 99% sure the ESB one was at least in part a matte painting.

If ther'es a full set piece (Snowspeeders, X-Wings, etc.) I usually go by those for scale references...  The models almost always vary in size but I don't know that Slave-1 had many models made of it.  2 perhaps?  I'm assuming you could go with either for "scale" then.   The Matte Painting from ESB is probably the best though, as you clearly see a human within its ramp, and so that's to me the best comparison.

I really don't know much on Slave-1, as it's not a favorite of mine, but it's definitely not in the ballpark of the Falcon's size.  Nowhere close.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 1, 2008, 09:40 AM
The At-At, Slave 1 and Death Star are all at the top of my list. If I had to pick only one though, I think I'd go with the Slave 1.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 3, 2008, 08:34 PM
The At-At, Slave 1 and Death Star are all at the top of my list. If I had to pick only one though, I think I'd go with the Slave 1.

The Slave 1 already has two molds so far... vintage/POTF2 and the SAGA/OTC version.  Any reason why you'd choose another resculpt of it over the others? 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on August 3, 2008, 11:48 PM
My first choice would be a Death Star playset. My second choice would be a new larger AT-AT so that if you put an AT-AT next to the AT-TE, the AT-AT doesn't look ridiculous.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Daigo-Bah on August 4, 2008, 12:47 AM
Absolutely the AT-AT is the one for me.  Intuitively I would have thought that this is the vehicle most desiring of an "up"grade (pun intended) but apparently not as many people as I thought make it a priority.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 4, 2008, 04:58 PM
The At-At, Slave 1 and Death Star are all at the top of my list. If I had to pick only one though, I think I'd go with the Slave 1.

The Slave 1 already has two molds so far... vintage/POTF2 and the SAGA/OTC version.  Any reason why you'd choose another resculpt of it over the others? 

That says a lot considering I'm an imperial junky. But mainly, per the the topic, I'd like to have a bigger one. It's a cool ship.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on August 4, 2008, 06:33 PM
I am of course all ready for a Death Star playset.  I say it all the time but just cannot believe this has not been done by Hasbro yet. I hope it does come true honestly.  If there is one thing in all 6 films that just screams make a playset(s) it is the Death Star.  Everything else is probably arguementative but that is a no-brainer.  Everyone has the main characters and stormtroopers by now.  They just need an enviroment to put them into. 

They love vehicles at Hasbro lately.  I am surprised a bit that they would focus their attention on Slave I. It really does not get much action in the films.  Plus, they love their $19.99 range for vehicles and that one fits perfectly.   I guess it might be cool to see what they come up with.  Maybe it will be so awesome that we all feel compelled to buy it?  There are plenty of Fett fans so it would do okay.  Who knows, maybe it will see some action in the Clone Wars series?  Boba has to learn to fly it at somepoint. 

AT-AT.  Well again it depends on what they come up with.  I have the vintage and POTF2 version.  If it is something stellar maybe I will go for it?  But I am pretty happy with the other versions and can not really see myself plunking down a lot for an all new one.  It's tough enough forking it over for the Falcon and AT-TE though. 

But yeah, I would much rather see a Sail Barge, Star Destroyer, or Rebel Blockade Runner get the big vehicle treatment before an AT-AT and Slave I.  But here you get into the whole "would anyone really buy them in droves" thing.  I would of course.  Hell I would buy a big Home One and Medical Frigate to if it was ever done.  LOL! 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on August 6, 2008, 09:38 AM
...I would of course.  Hell I would buy a big Home One and Medical Frigate to if it was ever done.  LOL! 


I'd buy a Medical Frigate in any capacity. Be that Titanium, Ultra Titanium (now a defunct line), scaled down ship, or model.

That's one ship that's been WAY overlooked. Granted it doesn't see much action. So that's why I think it would be perfect for the Titanium treatment.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on August 6, 2008, 06:53 PM
The Slave 1 already has two molds so far... vintage/POTF2 and the SAGA/OTC version.  Any reason why you'd choose another resculpt of it over the others? 

I can't speak for Darth_Anton, but a Slave I seems to be a totally reasonable ship to resculpt again, if the rumors of the character's involvement in the live action series are true.  If Boba Fett is anything near a major recurring character, it would make sense that this vehicle could be a recurring location as well as a key vehicle.  Heck, if there's any of Boba catching people and throwing them in cages in his ship, I'd be more shocked if we didn't see a roughly $50 Slave I at some point.  As a center of action, there's plenty of good reason why, in 2010 or 2011, we could, in theory, see it.  Of course, the same argument could probably also be made for pretty much any vehicle-- shoehorn it into the TV show, and wait.

(Plus the Saga and OTC versions had some extensive changes between them, surely they could get a bunch of these features in a larger, single unit.  I miss the cargo hold from the original.)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: evenflow on August 6, 2008, 10:05 PM
I hope all the sail barge questions and its appearance in the Clone Wars pushes hasbro to further conisder making it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rune Haako on August 12, 2008, 06:39 AM
Something BIG for TPM's 10 Anniversary?

Adam posted this here,

Gallactic Hunter Forums (http://www.galactichunter.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=Hasbro&Number=196411&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=&fpart=6)

I hear (from a reliable, reliable source, no, not the voices in my head) that there's something "BIG" planned for next year's 10-year anniversary of TPM. It could just be a chrome plated Queen's Starship, or it could be an MTT "BULL" Tank. Speculate at will.


I hope it's the MTT!  :o ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 12, 2008, 09:22 AM
Seriously. I don't think we need the Queen's starship again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 11:22 AM
Theed Palace could be nice.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on August 12, 2008, 11:40 AM
I sure wish I had reliable sources.  You'd think Hasbro would be getting pretty pissed off at this guy by now - not that I'm complaining about the info.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on August 12, 2008, 12:32 PM
Adam has got to realize that spreading rumors without proof just erodes any gains he made with the BMF. The Falcon is old news. He needs proof of something new and not just a "I hear we are getting ____." without any documented proof. Otherwise, he will find himself being ignored just like the guys over at DeathStarPlans2.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on August 12, 2008, 12:48 PM
Theed Palace could be nice.

And exciting.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on August 12, 2008, 01:38 PM
"Adam has got to realize that spreading rumors without proof just erodes any gains he made with the BMF. The Falcon is old news. He needs proof of something new and not just a "I hear we are getting ____." without any documented proof. Otherwise, he will find himself being ignored just like the guys over at DeathStarPlans2."

I don't agree.  With the BMF he showed us that he has the inside track. He was dead on with that one, and I'm sure he will be in the future. He can't say "this is coming" or Hasbro will get  angry, so he posts the stuff as rumors.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 01:53 PM
I don't see anything wrong with rumor mills like this.  If anything, they spark interest.

Theed Palace could be nice.

And exciting.

Not much in EPI is really exciting, is it? 

I think if you use a little bit of imagination and common sense, one could probably come up with an appealing Theed Palace... the courtyard area might work, where the droid army collides with the Jedi and small Naboo force. 

Something kind of like this custom set up that The Professor made is what I have in mind -

(http://chewie34.250free.com/prof2.jpg)

Doubt we'd ever get anything that big obviously... but, some snap together "floor pieces", a couple buildings (maybe one with a scaled down interior of the hangar), a statue or two, and maybe a Gian Speeder along with a couple Battle Droids, and you might have something interesting... especially if you could "expand" it on your own by purchasing more than one set.  I don't consider it likely at all that we'll see something like this, but it's fun to think about.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on August 12, 2008, 02:03 PM
I don't see anything wrong with rumor mills like this.  If anything, they spark interest.

Theed Palace could be nice.

And exciting.

Not much in EPI is really exciting, is it? 

Nope, that's why you don't see a lot of toys from EP1.

Quote
the courtyard area might work, where the droid army collides with the Jedi and small Naboo force. 


OK

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 02:08 PM
Not gonna happen I'm sure, but they could potentially side-market it as being a Battlefront location too, for both the prequel and OT era... just an idea.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on August 12, 2008, 02:14 PM
I don't agree.  With the BMF he showed us that he has the inside track. He was dead on with that one, and I'm sure he will be in the future. He can't say "this is coming" or Hasbro will get  angry, so he posts the stuff as rumors.

The BMF was months ago and is old news and was just about to be announced anyway. He needs to start proving things more often than just one lucky hit. Where are all the things he "perdicted" before the BMF? Where is proof of the things he has been saying lately? The excuse of "Hasbro just changed their mind." doesn't fly.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on August 12, 2008, 02:26 PM
Where exactly did he predict the BMF was coming...the AT-TE he did but I don't remember the Falcon.

Figure wise there are several on that list he's been saying are coming for at least 3 years now...mind change, I know
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on August 12, 2008, 03:53 PM
Maybe it's me, but a Chrome Queen's Starship and a MTT do not do anything to wet my collecting appetite. The old Starhip is not in high demand now and can still be purchased below retail (shipping included) on ebay. The MTT is a big mobile clothing rack with tank treads. If these rumors come to fruition what a disappointment.

Any idea for a large item from EP1 is a bad one and sounds like a steaming pile of Faamba **** to me. Hasbro has steered clear of EP1 basic figures like no tomorrow for a reason: 85% of the characters suck Gungan balls! Be glad we got a handful of them over the past 3 years. I am not craving for more Japanese Mime Padmes or Captain Panaka and his merry lemon orange crew of losers. I do not know about the rest of you but I am not feeling any kind of void in my collection for Kipster and Willow in the Rodian get up. If they do come out I have a nice spot for them at the bottom of my figure bins. (They can keep Orn Free Taa and the Lucas sisters company.)

Why would they pull out the stops now for a large EP 1 investment?  Do two waves of figures from the TPM and maybe rerelease the Naboo Starfighter then call it a day. Does the general public even care (or want to know for that matter) that the TPM is 10 years old? Most people only want to watch 10 minutes of that turd of a film and it's the Maul duel. It's seriously painful to watch.

The Sail Barge & Death Star are worthy big ticket items. I would be excited about either of those being made. GH's rumors sound like they are from an unreliable, unreliable source. Kudo's for the BMF scoop, but did it ever cross his mind that Hasbro is still pissed and wants to plant a fake rumor to expose the mole? They will push the upcoming live action TV series or CW again before EP1.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on August 12, 2008, 04:04 PM
I have to say I agree for the most part.  Neither the Royal Starship or the MTT excite me all that much either.  I used to always regret having to pass on the Queen's ship at TRU years ago (when it was on clearance), but at this point I really don't have room for a lot of big stuff (and it seems like we're starting to get more and more of it) - and any room I do have I'd sooner save for something better than these.

I think it would be a mistake to make anything too terribly high dollar from TPM as well.  They would be better off BMF-ing more OT ships, or tackling something else spiffy from the Clone Wars era.  I think those are the two things that can push items of that size at retail, but I guess you never know.  I'm fine with them recognizing the 10th Anniversary of TPM (although I'm guessing a lot of fans would be "meh"), but if they wanted to do a 10 figure line or something (for the 10th ann.) with "ultimate" versions of the biggest characters from that movie (Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon, Padme, Jar Jar, Anakin, Maul, etc.) that would be fine.  Also, even though I have one, I'm always a little surprised we haven't seen the Naboo starfighter re-released in the starfighter line as well.  Again, that shows how far away Hasbro has stayed from TPM stuff, so investing in something large and pricey seems kind of surprising to me as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on August 12, 2008, 04:13 PM
Hasbro wants to find a dirty rat.....I know for a fact they are still pissed.

(http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w298/jackoftradze/Jackoftradze%20Star%20Wars%20customs/snitch-0336-gate.jpg) (http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w298/jackoftradze/Jackoftradze%20Star%20Wars%20customs/ackbar.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 04:25 PM
The Royal Starship or a Faamba or whatever just wouldn't cut it... and I sure as hell hope if we do get something, it's not some sort of Podracer.  Bleh!

I do think that they could get away with something Federation related from Episode One, as it could also serve as a Clone Wars piece...   

I agree the MTT doesn't overly excite me... but I'd get it.  A Federation Cruiser would be nice too.  Or those battle droid transports you see carrying troops.  I'd like that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 04:31 PM
Hasbro wants to find a dirty rat.....I know for a fact they are still pissed.

Hey Jack, I'm not doubting you, but I wonder how they could have ever expected for the Falcon to not be known about until SDCC... not in this information age... plus, retailers were getting it in their stockrooms a couple weeks earlier, and there were leaks at retail... look at what happened in Canada too with our friend Jangotat.

Do you really think this is a mole hunt?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on August 12, 2008, 04:59 PM
and I sure as hell hope if we do get something, it's not some sort of Podracer.  Bleh!

I'm pretty sure Hasbro acknowledged in one of their QnA's that they'd be doing more Podracers in 09-10.  What if this is our UBP for 09?  That would suck.

Ya - forget about what I said.   ::)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on August 12, 2008, 05:19 PM
Something BIG for TPM's 10 Anniversary?

All these 'movie anniversary' rumors we've been hearing (e.g. TPM=MTT, ESB=Slave I/AT-AT, etc.) just seem weird to me. I don't recall Hasbro ever making an item(s) for a specific movie's anniversary, besides ANH of course. Why would they start doing it now, especially since they're gonna have their hands full promoting the animated and live-action TV shows?

Don't get me wrong...I'd love an MTT, I'd even buy Podrace-centric UBPs...it just seems like he's pulling reasons out of his ass so that his many recent far-fetched rumors will be taken more seriously.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on August 12, 2008, 05:36 PM
Amen brother!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 06:16 PM
I say take what he says with a grain of salt.  If we do get more big items, great.  If not, too bad. 

Either way, I'm not going to praise or diss someone for posting information they may have gotten from a source.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on August 12, 2008, 06:48 PM
I don't recall Hasbro ever making an item(s) for a specific movie's anniversary, besides ANH of course.

Surely you haven't forgotten the wonderful ROTJ 25th anniversary wave we just got?!?

Yarna doesn't get hauled out for just any old wave!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on August 12, 2008, 10:15 PM
An MTT would be pretty cool.  It has that crossover potential with both TPM and The Clone Wars...provided it makes an appearance in the series.

The Clone Turbo tank which is in another rumor list?  I've heard Hasbro mention that in passing as well.  Most notably at this past Toy Fair.

I almost get the feeling that Clone Wars director Dave Filoni is trying to get some of the really big vehicles into the Clone Wars movie and series for his own ends.  He's also a collector, and perhaps he wants to add some of these things to his own collection.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 12, 2008, 10:39 PM
I'm sure with the success of the Falcon and the AT-TE Hasbro is looking at making more large scale items which is great.

For the TPM anniversary, I could see them re-releasing the Queen's Starship...hopefully a bit retooled, but even if they did a straight re-release, I think it would do well.  That was one of the toughest to get items from the Episode 1 line if I recall.

An MTT would also be a good idea, but we'd probably end up with the air taxi.   :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 12, 2008, 10:55 PM
Not to disagree with you Matt, but the Royal Starship bombed in my area and ended up on clearance fpr $49.98 at TRU, and even at that price didn't move too well... they can still be had on ebay for less than the initial retail price of $100 including shipping. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JangoTat on August 12, 2008, 10:56 PM
I'm sure with the success of the Falcon and the AT-TE Hasbro is looking at making more large scale items which is great.

For the TPM anniversary, I could see them re-releasing the Queen's Starship...hopefully a bit retooled, but even if they did a straight re-release, I think it would do well.  That was one of the toughest to get items from the Episode 1 line if I recall.

An MTT would also be a good idea, but we'd probably end up with the air taxi.   :D

I wouldnt say it was that rare. My uncle got it for me at an outlet store that buys stuff from the mass retailers that doesnt sell. he got it for me at $60 while just last year I saw it several times at a couple of cons going for no more then $30-40. Im not saying its easy to find now but in terms of what I have been seeing this doesnt fetch much of an after market price. If hasbro does release a big vehicle for the TPM ani I just hope it is something that has not been done before.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on August 12, 2008, 11:03 PM
I'd (seriously) love to see a Fambaa re-release in a UBP packed with a new Jar Jar, tons of Gungans, Boomer Damaged Battle Droids, and one of those big head things.  :) :-X

But an MTT would be pretty awesome, too. I just don't know how I'd make room for it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Reid on August 12, 2008, 11:12 PM
I don't buy prequel ships, so a MTT or Royal Starship doesn't interest me. However, I'd be sold on a BMF style AT-AT.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on August 12, 2008, 11:50 PM
Not to disagree with you Matt, but the Royal Starship bombed in my area and ended up on clearance fpr $49.98 at TRU, and even at that price didn't move too well... they can still be had on ebay for less than the initial retail price of $100 including shipping. 
I got mine for $20 at Target, I could have had 10 of them...it bombed huge
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 13, 2008, 12:06 AM
Same here...  Family Toy Warehouse even dumped them when they went out of business for pretty good prices, and their prices were never pretty good on anything.

TRU I think was where I got mine though for a steal.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Diddly on August 13, 2008, 12:22 AM
I probably would have bought a Royal Starship if all the ones I saw didn't have the Red Astromech stolen from it.

Honestly I think the only resculpted/proper scale items I would buy are an AT-AT (could easily be done for $100, maybe $120), an AT-ST ($40-50?) and a Snowspeeder (san easily be redone and put in the $20 line). I'd love a new Slave I but I think the Saga version is fine. Mine's buried somewhere and I haven't pulled it out to see if the new Jangos will fit in it but other than a prison chamber (with a cage and a place to put the Carbonite slab) I can't see that much they could add to it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 13, 2008, 12:56 AM
Yeah Diddly, you're right - a Snowspeeder could be redone in the $20 line, I'd think rather easily.  I'm not interested at all in a new Slave I, but a new AT-AT or AT-ST?  Sure!

Back to the EPI stuff.  Definitely the weakest film, and the least interesting.  That being said, I don't knock the Royal Starship - it's a cool toy and worth $100.  Hasbro did a fine job with it.  Problem is, that vehicle didn't have any weapons or much to make it really cool.  And to it that the entire EPI line was a flop... remember the mass EPI clearances before POTJ hit?  Wow.

Let's not forget that in 1999, most of the fan base was quite a bit younger than we are now... how many of us around here had good paying jobs then?  Since then most of us have moved forward in our careers and are out of high school, college, whatever.  Point is we have more disposable income now.  So $100 toys aren't as out of reach as they were 10 years ago.  Part of the market has more income now, and kids are asking their parents for this stuff more than ever in the prequel era... that's opened the door for many larger items (including playsets) that some would have bet their left nut would never happen.

I seem to recall the Royal Starship being released in late summer/early fall of 1999.  God, I was broke then, still in college.  I did get it for Christmas though, the one item I asked for that year since I couldn't afford it.  I did get it, and shortly thereafter TRU cleared them out, lol.  Oh well.  Still a nice collection piece, though I don't want to see it released again.  The MTT sounds a lot more appealing to me.  It's new, and can double as a Clone Wars droid vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 13, 2008, 02:00 AM
Hmmm...I thought the Royal Starship did better...of course I was living in Alaska at the time.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on August 13, 2008, 11:04 AM
Its been said before in this thread I think - and don't get me wrong, I'm really happy and excited for the larger items that we've gotten and have coming up - but I think Hasbro might be in danger of over doing it with the big/higher priced items.  Granted, it might just be me, but even putting the space issue aside (which is really getting difficult at this point), but its tough financially to keep up with all this - especially when it all comes in the back half of the year.  Sure, I don't have to buy it all - and I don't - but it seems these days if you do like something (Star Wars in particular) you better buy it when you see it.  It seems like quite a bit of it disappears quickly these days.

Anyways, with these larger items (particularly those approaching the $80+ pricepoint), they might want to limit it to one a year - or spread a couple out a bit.  Personally, for "big stuff" I've only gotten the new Falcon so far, but if you look at the rest of the year we have the Falcon, AT-TE, Sarlacc BP, Lars BP and possibly some other unannounced UBP around the holidays that are all at least $50 or more.  That's not even mentioning other $20-$40 stuff that is hitting the shelves as well.  Then the Rancor early in the year - and so on.  Its amazing to me that even though the movies are "over" (although now we have Clone Wars and the series coming up to push things), we're getting more stuff in non-movie years than we ever did in movie years before.  With 60+ basic figures, comic packs, Evolutions, battle packs, ultimate battle packs, starfighter vehicle assortments, "big" vehicles/battle packs, and exclusives - there's just a ton of stuff out these days to pick up.  It gets tough to keep up with the basic 3 3/4" line all by itself.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on August 13, 2008, 11:30 AM
Back to the EPI stuff.

Not that this has anything to do with big items - but I wonder why Hasbro has only chosen to re-release one vehicle since Ep1 release.  It obviously has connections to the other movies and the CW, but we all know how Hasbro likes to paint things and we could have seen 10 repaints of the Naboo Fighter by now.  Not to mention the beasts...I actually thought the Fambaa was pretty cool - way over priced, but cool.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 13, 2008, 02:07 PM
Its been said before in this thread I think - and don't get me wrong, I'm really happy and excited for the larger items that we've gotten and have coming up - but I think Hasbro might be in danger of over doing it with the big/higher priced items.  Granted, it might just be me, but even putting the space issue aside (which is really getting difficult at this point), but its tough financially to keep up with all this - especially when it all comes in the back half of the year.  Sure, I don't have to buy it all - and I don't - but it seems these days if you do like something (Star Wars in particular) you better buy it when you see it.  It seems like quite a bit of it disappears quickly these days.

Anyways, with these larger items (particularly those approaching the $80+ pricepoint), they might want to limit it to one a year - or spread a couple out a bit.  Personally, for "big stuff" I've only gotten the new Falcon so far, but if you look at the rest of the year we have the Falcon, AT-TE, Sarlacc BP, Lars BP and possibly some other unannounced UBP around the holidays that are all at least $50 or more.  That's not even mentioning other $20-$40 stuff that is hitting the shelves as well.  Then the Rancor early in the year - and so on.  Its amazing to me that even though the movies are "over" (although now we have Clone Wars and the series coming up to push things), we're getting more stuff in non-movie years than we ever did in movie years before.  With 60+ basic figures, comic packs, Evolutions, battle packs, ultimate battle packs, starfighter vehicle assortments, "big" vehicles/battle packs, and exclusives - there's just a ton of stuff out these days to pick up.  It gets tough to keep up with the basic 3 3/4" line all by itself.

Yeah it is tough... but a lot of what we're seeing in the basic line is repacks.  So for me at least, that's money saved.

It seems like quite a bit of it disappears quickly these days.

^ That illustrates the whole point I am about to make...

Is Hasbro overdoing it right now?  From what I can tell - no.  At least not at this point.  Like you said, it seems like quite a bit of it disappears quickly these days.

The initial shipments of Clone Wars/Legacy stuff sold like crazy, and the larger items moved very well too.  And they're still doing so.  I have noticed that all the Walmarts and TRU have restocked to the max in my area with their basic figures over the past few days, which coincides with the new films coming out this week.  I'd say give it 2-3 weeks from now and we'll really know if they overdid it with the basic figures production numbers, but in terms of the big items, I think it was high time they did something like this.  A lot of people have been waiting and waiting for stuff like the AT-TE and new Falcon.

Regarding the Lars Homestead and Sarlacc Pit, those are exclusives so I'm not worried about those at all.  Maybe the Homestead just a bit, but I gander it will do well enough to justify it being made.  The Rancor should do fine in 2009 too, better than the TFU one did.

Lots and lots of product though like you said, and I've definitely felt the strain too (more on the wallet than on space - older outdated stuff, I am able to part with that for superior sculpts/etc.).  But I'm not a completist by any means, thank God.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on August 16, 2008, 12:28 PM
For those keeping score, Adam May has completely retracted (http://www.galacticblogger.com/blogger/2008/08/15/all-of-the-rumours-keeping-me-grounded/) his Death Star rumors.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 16, 2008, 05:44 PM
All because of something Hasbro said in a Q&A... kinda funny.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 16, 2008, 11:14 PM
The DS we've heard that "comes up" at Hasbro's table isn't anything close to a modular style playset so I was a little skeptical, but it's always fun to wonder "what if" too...  I'm not surprised though, as it sounds like the push has been in recent years for something more akin to a pressed cardboard type set, similar to the Palitoy Death Star/Vintage one (Not the Kenner/plastic one).  And that push was all for economic reasons, and it still doesn't get done.  Basically I'm just sayin' I'm not shocked at all at this news.

I'm sure Hasbro's open to a stackable modular Death Star if the toy karma and stars align for it though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on August 17, 2008, 03:06 AM
How about a new Rebel transpot?

with a movable gun on top, wide cockpit for 4 action figures, longer than BMF, with some accesories like the vintage one, like gas mask, bags, weapons.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 17, 2008, 09:57 AM
How about a new Rebel transpot?


I love the old one. Now that figures are getting less bulky, maybe they could pull one off.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on August 17, 2008, 12:44 PM
How about a new Rebel transpot?

I actually hadn't thought of that yet, that's a pretty good idea. They could pack in Torynn Farr and a soldier or two and I'd buy it at BMF price.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on August 17, 2008, 05:01 PM
How about a new Rebel transpot?

That ship holds a special place for me as it was the first vehicle I owned from SW as a kid.  That's right, by the time I got into the movies - all of the X-Wings, Ties, and Falcons were gone from K-Mart/Sears so I'd dig the BMF treatment for this fella.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on August 17, 2008, 09:29 PM
How about a new Rebel transpot?

Definitely not in the next few years.  Probably after the Cloud Car... which is also probably not in the next few years.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 18, 2008, 10:09 AM
Or never according to Hasbro. :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 18, 2008, 10:34 AM
I guess I'd like to see a new Rebel Transport, but I really don't see that being that great of a choice of a large vehicle... Sail Barge and company would stand a better chance, I think.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on August 18, 2008, 04:51 PM
Well, I happened to pick up a vintage Rebel Transport for cheap a few years back. It's decent enough. But I think it would need to be reworked for the modern line. Not enough going on inside of it to be all that exciting. <--waits to be misquoted on that last sentence.

However, a Transport in scale with the BMF would be one freakin' huge custom model project! Man, the thought of that get's my creative juices flowing. <--waits to be misquoted on that last sentence as well...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on August 18, 2008, 05:38 PM
I always considered the Rebel Transport to be a great toy.  I got mine when I was 10, and it was the best carry case/figure moving thing I could get.  I mean, it had a freaking handle right on top, and standing room for about 40 figures, PLUS it was engineered so the figures had slots and foot pegs and wouldn't topple over.   I sincerely doubt you could put 24 modern SW figures in there.  Maybe 15?

It was a thing of beauty.  Unfortunately, modern figures are much wider and I'm willing to bet many wouldn't even fit in the compartments.   That, and I could see it being a crappy thing to own unless you were looking for a way to store your figures or transport a bunch of them around the house.   It's not a very showy item, being essentially a giant cigar, but the little removable cannon thing was fun to play with.  It's one of very few toys I would see benefiting from a spring-loaded cannon in there.

Still, I think the Sail Barge or a Blockade Runner stand a better chance of being made.   I say this with love-- the Rebel Transport isn't going to impress anybody in this day and age.  Its main play function can be adequately replicated by a modestly sized cardboard box.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on August 19, 2008, 12:12 AM
Here are the larger vehicles that I think *MIGHT* have a shot in the line...

-MTT
-Clone Shuttle (Clone Wars)
-Twilight (Clone Wars)
-Sentinel Class Imperial Landing Ship (Big longshot)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Reid on August 19, 2008, 01:30 AM
Here are the larger vehicles that I think *MIGHT* have a shot in the line...

-Sentinel Class Imperial Landing Ship (Big longshot)


Thank you.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 1, 2008, 11:07 AM
I mentioned this in the "big vehicles" thread as well, but at least here locally, the holiday sales really seem to be moving both the Falcon and AT-TE at retail.  All of our local stores seemed to be sold out (or close to it) after having at least 1 or 2 in stock of each for the last few months.  Hopefully this is a good sign, and not just a localized and/or short term sale burst.

That being said, if these vehicles do sell well nationwide through the holidays - what do you think will be our next 1 or 2 vehicles in this lineup?  I'm thinking - again, if both vehicles do well - we'll see another OT/CW combo of vehicles.  Something that is seen a fair amount in the animated series alongside another iconic vehicle from the OT.  I've seen the Juggernaut mentioned before, as well as the AT-AT (I think there were rumors of a redone Slave 1 at the GH blog as well at one point?).  What do you think would be the best next choices to get the BMF treatment - or should Hasbro limit it to one per year from now on?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 1, 2008, 11:12 AM
AT-TE's are gone here but Falcons are still plentiful at Wal-Mart and Target...  I counted 6 Falcons at WM last night.  Target had fewer but they've not had much out since they were released.  I'm not surprised given the price, it isn't cheap, but I'm a little surprised at how few I've noticed moved at WM.  Maybe they just restocked and I missed it or something.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Keonobi on December 1, 2008, 11:36 AM
Not so much a vehicle, and I know Hasbro has said they aren't going to do playsets, per se.  But how about some kind of battlement set?  You know something with a generic wall and maybe a turret or something.  Maybe even have connectors at the end to snap two (or more) pieces together like the Cantina bar sections.  I'm sure lots of little kids would like to do something like that scene from Starship Troopers where they fight from that field assembled base...

It could be pretty simple and Hasbro could incorporate it within a Ultimate Battlepack or something.  Basically have a base, a wall, a turret and maybe a gate.  Then they can either fill out the pack with OT, PT or EU figures.  Heck, they could even paint it different schemes (Snowy, sandy, dirty, etc.).  Then to spread the cost they could repack it in their other lines, (GI Joe, etc.).

My thinking is that most of the buyers of the BMF and AT-TE probably don't do a ton of flying/walking them around.  They don't utilize their vehicle function so muc as they primarily use them as a basis to play with the figures.  And since there aren't a huge number of ships that are iconic/saga spanning like the BMF or as heavily used in the PT/Clone Wars as the AT-TE, I think Hasbro should look at something somewhat generic that they can apply treatment to, in order to sell multiple times (think repainted ROTS clones...).

So does anyone think a set where you can have a line of Troopers (and maybe a PT version of an E-Web) firing down on SBDs and Tri-Droids, or some Rebels bravely holding off an onslaught of 50 Stormies) seem like a good idea?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on December 1, 2008, 12:28 PM
I'm hoping for any of the following to be made:

PT
Juggernaut (clone turbo tank)-it's mostly hollow inside, so lots of room for figures AND the electronics necessary.
AT-TE dropship-now that we have the actual AT-TE, Hasbro "could" give us this ship. It's not very iconic, but much of the mold can be taken from the existing gunship, just bigger. THis would be a perfect candidate for an exclusive.

OT
Jabba's Sailbarge-really this IS the one that people on most collecting forums want. PLENTY of action, large, good for storing figures.
Sandcrawler-this is in such bad need of the BMF treatment. Many of us bought the previous small version based off of the vintage mold, but came away very unsatisfied. I'm glad I waited to get mine and got it on sale. A new LARGE BMF, like the custom that pops up every once in awhile, would be highly desired. A room for C-3PO/R2 to reunite, command bridge at the top of it, front triangular door opening to several levels inside the vehicle. Side panels come off to reveal yet more rooms. Actual treads??? A non-functioning vacuum scoop to pick up the droids-maybe a clear plastic platform to set a droid on to make it appear as if it's being scooped up, from which you pull up a sliding lever to take the droid up.
Pack in an exclusive Jawa and Droid, oooh, or maybe a new Uncle Owen and you've got a solid iconic vehicle from the original movie that started it all!

Upsizing Slave One and the AT-AT are good choices as well.

There really isn't anything else in this scale that could be feasibly done nor much in this scale I can think of that people would really want.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 1, 2008, 01:06 PM
Hmmm... I think there's still demand for more stuff than that, especially playsets.   :P

Anyways, I haven't seen people really discuss this, but what about an Imperial landing platform like we see on Endor?  I know it's not all that iconic, but damnit that would be nice to see made.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on December 1, 2008, 02:09 PM
As long as it doesn't look silly under the shuttle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 4, 2008, 03:32 PM
Judging by the sales trends the big boys do not look to be flying off the shelves. Everywhere I go stores are piled up with AT-TE's. BMF's are lighter but still quite easy to find. I have some inside info that the sales data is mixed on these items.

I hope to see more large stuff in the future but not sure if we will see anything next year. The next 3 weeks will likely decide the fate of $100+ vehicles for the foreseeable future.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 4, 2008, 05:00 PM
Holy hell you're back. ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on December 4, 2008, 05:35 PM
I have some inside info that the sales data is mixed on these items.


That's no surprise - IMO, they're cannibalizing each other.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 5, 2008, 09:23 AM
It may just be our area, but it seems like they've both been pretty consistent sellers around here.  Most stores were sold out this weekend, although I see our local Target had restocked another Falcon this week.  I agree though that having them out at the same time may hurt a bit.  I personally hope we see some more big vehicles in the future (I wouldn't mind seeing some more OT ships get all-new versions), but if we're going to get two in a year, they might want to do one in the spring and one at Christmas (or just do one each year).  Hopefully the sales figures will allow for us to see more of this concept in the future.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 5, 2008, 09:31 AM
Holy hell you're back. ;D

Baby, Moved, China Trip & Work craziness engulfed me...I still swimming..but I am back.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2008, 10:26 AM
Moved?  PM me sometime...  I've got your # but if you moved I doubt it's working then.  Life's hectic here too...  Not to the extent yours is obviously, but hectic.  I'll tell ya all about it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 30, 2008, 04:19 PM
Now that we've gotten through the holiday shopping season (at least for the most part), how do you think these big vehicles did?  It seems like it has varied by region, but here locally, it seems like the Targets and WMs in town have sold through both pretty well (Target in particular doesn't have any on the shelves last time I was there).  TRU had 1 Falcon and about 5 of the AT-TE last time I was in there, but they seemed to have more stock of both in general during the holidays.  Anyways, that being said, do you think we'll see another round of these in 2009?  If so, should Hasbro limit it to one - or keep it at two and break them up in the year a little?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on December 30, 2008, 04:46 PM
I'd say they both sold fairly well.  I think the AT-TE probably did better since I did see a couple of Falcons at Target just before Christmas and there were no AT-TE's in sight.  Not very scientific reasoning, but that's what I observed.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on December 30, 2008, 06:49 PM
I've been seeing more Falcons than AT-TE's.  And based on some comments from family members who were buying Star Wars for kids this holiday season?  They were deterred by the price of the Falcon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 30, 2008, 07:20 PM
I think if they re-release the Falcon anytime soon, it will really collect dust as it will be essentially a repack of a $150.00 ticket item.  Hasbro did pick a great year to release it though and I think they and retailers have to be pleased.

The AT-TE did better it seemed in my area, the lower price tag as well as the "clone" aspect helps it a lot.  The only drawback is the damn legs but it seems as though sales did fine despite that.  And while Hasbro has had to send out replacement legs galore, that shouldn't deter them from pushing more large items like this.  That was a quality issue and not a sales one... and I think this could be repacked even next year and still do ok.  Might just be an exlusive next time it is released though.

I think this is all very good news for more items of this size in the future, and dare I say this can't hurt the prospect of some diorama-esque playsets too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on December 30, 2008, 07:35 PM
I actually wonder if the situation with the legs may be a negative for large vehicles.  The need to produce those legs and send them out at no charge is a cost that Hasbro has to eat.  If the issue was at the design end, then someone at Hasbro might lose their job.  If it was a production error then Hasbro may penalize the factory.  But someone is going to eat the cost of those AT-TE legs.

I don't know if we're really going to know the outcome of the situation for 6 months to a year.  Hasbro has said that they don't release sales figures.  And I think Hasbro is likely to be vague if asked about things in the Q&A's.  But having been to the stores, sales seem to have been solid.  But there's the potential that the leg defect might deter Hasbro from doing big vehicles again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on December 30, 2008, 08:10 PM
So are the legs that Hasbro is mailing out any better than the stock ones? How are they different? It seems to me all you need is some clear tubing to fit over the leg posts to make them more secure. No use on bothering Hasbro for that unless you are customizing a twelve-legged AT-TE.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 30, 2008, 09:33 PM
The legs are different (check our story on the front page Paul, there's some photos), and much more sturdy.  I think some plastic tubing would work fine too though (didn't try it msyelf).  I got my replacement set but I'm gonna need a second set actually I think, as I got another TE and the legs are doing the same thing again.

Beware too.  Mine I thought were ok, but over time I found they were not.

The peg was basically changed slightly.  It's much MUCH sturdier, and honestly I have found you only needed the center set, not all 6, but that was my Walker.  Yours may need all 6?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Theta 288 on December 30, 2008, 10:05 PM
Mine need all 6, but Hasbro doesn't have this offer anymore the last time I checked... at less I'm in the wrong page.

I was thinking to get another one... last time I saw one at WM, was at $70, but for these legs like that...I prefer some Gunships.

Beware for Ebaysellers... they have legs at $9.00 per parts  >:(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 31, 2008, 08:27 AM
I agree with what many of you have seen in your area.  Both vehicles sold well here, and aside from TRU, I don't think there are any left on the shelves locally really (at least at the stores we frequent).  I think the AT-TE might have sold a little quicker as well, although both did well it seems.  I'm wondering if Hasbro might need to keep the pricepoint a little closer to $100 rather than $150 (or only release one "big" vehicle a year) to get the most solid sales.  I mean, some of us collectors even were turned off by the higher price, I'm sure casual buyers were even worse.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 31, 2008, 09:39 AM
Both vehicles seemed to sell great here. I think this bodes well for new items next year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on January 2, 2009, 03:50 PM
I don't know how the legs could NOT be a negative for the future.  Check out the reviews at Target.com and Amazon...especially the ones in the last few days

Target (http://www.target.com/Star-Wars-Clone-AT-TE-Vehicle/dp/B0013TPJDK?node=721728011#GuestReviews)
Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/review/product/B0013TPJDK/ref=cm_cr_dp_all_helpful?%5Fencoding=UTF8&coliid=&showViewpoints=1&colid=&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending)

Sure people bought them...many opened them for Christmas and what did they find?  A giant piece of crap.  I fixed my son's with the tubing...how many Joe the Plumbers know the same trick?  If I shelled out $100+ for an AT-TE I'd be absolutely pissed if the legs fell off constantly and probably would not buy another large ticket Star Wars item again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 2, 2009, 06:24 PM
Yeah, let's hope that Hasbro gets their act together before they **** up the AT-AT & AT-ST.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2009, 11:29 AM
Well it's a no-brainer that the crappy legs on the AT-TE aren't a positive.  But I think it's a pretty pessimistic outlook to think that it means we're not going to see more large scale items anymore in this line because of this.

From what I'm seeing online, the new GI JOE movie is going to have some really big items too.  Right now Hasbro sees the market as being viable for these larger scale items.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on January 3, 2009, 11:51 AM
I'm not saying they won't make them...I'm saying casual buyer people will think twice of buying them whicvh doesn't bode well for the long term viability of said items

I think Nick has a point too...there has to be some HUGE ramnifications internal to Hasbro to the leg debacle I would think.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2009, 03:07 PM
I think a bigger issue will be the economy overall..  Toys have a tradition of not doing well in bad years, and that means if sales aren't what retail had hoped for on some of this stuff, they're less likely to give Hasbro an indication that THEY will bite...  Regardless of consumer thoughts on the matter.

Case-in-point, Christmas wasn't even here and gone yet, and the Falcon saw a pretty wide price slash of 33% at most WM stores that had them.  Most here had them, and most here went to $99 and are still holding in at that price.  33%'s not a huge cut in price, but anything over 20% usually isn't a good sign.

On the contrary, the AT-TE (at least here) is pretty well sold out and didn't really see anything but a 20% cut for a week here or there.  At the same time though, your points are pretty valid Scott, and I think the leg issue will hurt the impression of this toy (and the line in general) and its quality.  Likewise I agree with Nick that internally it's surely got someone in trouble for the design flaw.  I don't know if that'll impact Hasbro's POV on big items or not, but it might.

I think the real thing they'll be looking at is whether Retailers think they're viable...  Right now I'm not so sure, again citing the Falcon.  Which I think that's an outstanding toy, believe me.  I just think the fact there's quite a few around after Christmas and a seemingly national 33% price cut (at least at WM) are things that may hurt the biggest retailer's faith in these big ticket SW items.

GI Joe has a movie coming out...  That's all it could take to get SW stuff, but SW doesn't have that going for it.  It has a cartoon though?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2009, 03:52 PM
Nobody is disagreeing that someone at Hasbro is being held accountable for the crappy design of the legs.  Scott has the relevant point here though that this could scare some parents off in the future, which I think is what Hasbro should be more concerned with.  Star Wars is so popular and fortunate for Hasbro, the brand can probably absorb this sort of thing from time to time, but they certainly need to ensure this doesn't happen again in 2009.

I would think that retailers are going to order whatever large vehicle (or playset) Hasbro offers up next... I don't think the retailers are going to be shy about it until a large item ends up burning them. 

In the meantime, I picked up another AT-TE yesterday for $64.00 at a Walmart out in the sticks... first time I've seen one in about a month anywhere, and the only one on clearance.

How long is the cartoon going to last anyway?  I don't know, I haven't watched one single episode and really don't care to.   :P

As for some Falcons hitting 30% before Christmas, remember all those big fluffy horses and dinosaurs saw markdowns around 50-65% before Christmas. 

 ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Captain Piet on January 3, 2009, 06:46 PM
Nobody is disagreeing that someone at Hasbro is being held accountable for the crappy design of the legs.  Scott has the relevant point here though that this could scare some parents off in the future, which I think is what Hasbro should be more concerned with.  Star Wars is so popular and fortunate for Hasbro, the brand can probably absorb this sort of thing from time to time, but they certainly need to ensure this doesn't happen again in 2009.

I would think that retailers are going to order whatever large vehicle (or playset) Hasbro offers up next... I don't think the retailers are going to be shy about it until a large item ends up burning them. 

In the meantime, I picked up another AT-TE yesterday for $64.00 at a Walmart out in the sticks... first time I've seen one in about a month anywhere, and the only one on clearance.

How long is the cartoon going to last anyway?  I don't know, I haven't watched one single episode and really don't care to.   :P

As for some Falcons hitting 30% before Christmas, remember all those big fluffy horses and dinosaurs saw markdowns around 50-65% before Christmas. 

 ;)

There are five seasons (100 episodes) of the Clone Wars planned.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on January 3, 2009, 06:50 PM
Sams club had a AT-Te out on display for everyone to play with above all the boxes. Everytime I went by it all the legs were falling off. I'd fix them and next time it was even wrose. I wonder if this kept them from sell well at sams club. Currently they are not there anymore.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 3, 2009, 08:23 PM
In the meantime, I picked up another AT-TE yesterday for $64.00 at a Walmart out in the sticks... first time I've seen one in about a month anywhere, and the only one on clearance.

Not that I'm contributing to the thread, but I purchased my second AT-TE at WM the other day for the same price here in the Twin Cities.  Also found one of my local freak Targets which has the BMF clearanced at $97 and some change.

Aren't we supposed to get a "chromed" Royal Starship next year for the 10th anniversary of TPM?  Thought I heard that rumor somewhere....
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 3, 2009, 09:15 PM
I'm not saying they won't make them...I'm saying casual buyer people will think twice of buying them whicvh doesn't bode well for the long term viability of said items

I think Nick has a point too...there has to be some HUGE ramnifications internal to Hasbro to the leg debacle I would think.

I think that right now people are looking for value when they spend their money.  And if parents plunk down $100 for a toy for their kids, they expect the manufacturer to get it right the first time.  The replacement leg program is nice, but it doesn't serve Hasbro's image with consumers positively.  Especially now with the state of the economy.

Someone is definitely going to take a financial hit because of the AT-TE legs.  But the way this impacts consumer confidence in Hasbro products is probably more important in the long haul.

And what about the Falcon's landing gear?  For me that's been a little bit of a pain.  Any little nudge to the Falcon and it can go over and the landing gear comes off.  Sure, it goes right back in and the parts seem to tolerate the process.  But it may be a longterm design concern.

I guess where it's going to be interesting is when you balance all of these things against the sales of both the Falcon and the AT-TE.  Were the sales good enough that these flaws are within acceptable parameters?  And will it permit Hasbro to proceed with more large vehicle projects?  I don't think we're going to know the answer for some time.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 4, 2009, 11:16 AM
Were the sales good enough that these flaws are within acceptable parameters?  And will it permit Hasbro to proceed with more large vehicle projects?  I don't think we're going to know the answer for some time.

Guess we'll be finding out in a few more weeks, no?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 4, 2009, 11:36 AM
Yeah, I was thinking we *might* see some news on this or even pics of something new in February...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 4, 2009, 01:18 PM
Yeah, I was thinking we *might* see some news on this or even pics of something new in February...

I'm really surprised with how tight lipped Hasbro has been in the last few months about new stuff.

I'm guessing they still feel burned over the whole BMF leak from last year. Also there were many reports coming out of Europe about new product. So it's possible Hasbro has clamped down on that leak as well.

Actually though, I'd almost prefer it this way now. It used to be I'd need to know as soon as possible so I could budget for all of the stuff. Now that I've slashed my budget yet again in half, I'm not so worried about these things. Nearly everything from last year was SO easy to find, that I refuse to get myself all excitable about it and think I won't be able to find it.

Gone are the days of "Got to have it now."

I'm going to be a bit more selective now I think (and hope). I feel burned that I went out immediately and bought both a BMF and AT-TE. When, if I'd have waited 3 months I could have saved nearly $90 for the both, almost effectively giving me the AT-TE for free...

I will still buy this stuff, but I'm not rushing out to get it anymore.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 4, 2009, 04:28 PM
Were the sales good enough that these flaws are within acceptable parameters?  And will it permit Hasbro to proceed with more large vehicle projects?  I don't think we're going to know the answer for some time.

Guess we'll be finding out in a few more weeks, no?

I beg to differ.

I think the only thing going on right now as it pertains to vehicles is this:

Hasbro's finance people assessing where they are from a sales vs cost perspective.  Did the profits meet their projections?

I think it's very well possible that the design team may have had at least one or two ideas on tap.  But I think they're probably designs and that's it.  I think that the designs will only get the greenlight to go to the prototype or tooling stage after the finance people have their say.

So what if that happens?  What if something gets the greenlight?  I still don't think we would see or hear anything about a new, large vehicle for at least 6 months or more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 4, 2009, 07:07 PM
That's a good point Nicklab that Hasbro might have wanted to see how things went over the holidays in terms of what retailers still had in their inventory on the bigger items, but maybe they had a decent gauge on things based on how they did over the last summer/fall.  At least I'm hoping that's the case.

Sal, I also am a bit surprised at how Hasbro hasn't revealed much lately either.  And if they're still sore over GH breaking news on the Falcon, I think they ought to get over it.  Knowing that was coming in advance helped me save a bit of extra cash for it, which prevented me from charging it on my credit card.

Looks like they've got a big GI JOE item planned this summer... which is a playset of all things, lol.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on January 4, 2009, 08:45 PM
Actually, Hasbro has stated in their Q&As that they are going to be closely looking at how well the AT-TE and BMF perform through the holiday shopping season.

So, I would be willing to bet that we won't see or hear anything about another big item until SDCC 2009.

If we see something at Toy Fair 2009, then that just means that the item had been given the green light quite a while ago.

I could have sworn that I read somewhere that the BMF was in development for over a year (perhaps it was the latest Star Wars Insider article on it).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on January 4, 2009, 09:12 PM
That sounds about right.  They won't have the real Holiday numbers for a few weeks...then they'll decide to go with another or to hold back...

About the At-Te...I bought one three weeks ago and finally opened it on Wednesday.  The legs seem to be fine.  You really, really. really have to press them in until the little click is heard.  My 4 year old son and I played with it for three hours, and the only time the center legs came off was when he leaned across the toy.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 4, 2009, 09:40 PM
Holiday sales are MUCH bigger than anything else over the course of the year.  Just look at Black Friday itself.  It's called that because that's the day of the year when most retailers are able to get their books back into the black.  And mind you, that's with about 4 serious weeks of retail shopping left before Christmas.  And then the retailers do their post holiday inventory.  I don't think that Hasbro will wind up with solid sales data for the entire holiday season until at least the end of January.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 5, 2009, 01:44 AM
AT-TE's did have shipments that had fixed legs.  I know this because Hasbro's asking for people to check date stamps on AT-TE's if they request new sets of legs.  I had to check mine, and it had the old date stamp.

So they are shipping, apparantly, with fixed legs (it's actually just the pegs that are fixed).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on January 5, 2009, 07:47 AM
I think given the economy and the fact that they had two $100 plus items out at the same time they sold well.  At least they did around my area.  A few stores after Christmas do not seem to have many at all.  I can find them easily enought but it's not like they have stacks of them sitting on the floor like they did when the Queen's Starship was out in 1999. 

I think the chances of getting something like the TurboTank and an all new AT-AT are good or even a rumored new Slave I or AT-ST.   Their comments seem to suggest they still don't want to try a Jabba's SailBarge, Death Star, or an Imperial Destroyer. I think a Death Star vehicle/playset would do well but maybe not? 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on January 5, 2009, 09:35 AM

I feel burned that I went out immediately and bought both a BMF and AT-TE. When, if I'd have waited 3 months I could have saved nearly $90 for the both, almost effectively giving me the AT-TE for free...


I want to feel burned, but I'm happy to have gotten the stuff when I did. Sure, I would have love to have saved a hundred bucks, but these were a new class of item. Who knew?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 5, 2009, 01:26 PM

I feel burned that I went out immediately and bought both a BMF and AT-TE. When, if I'd have waited 3 months I could have saved nearly $90 for the both, almost effectively giving me the AT-TE for free...


I want to feel burned, but I'm happy to have gotten the stuff when I did. Sure, I would have love to have saved a hundred bucks, but these were a new class of item. Who knew?

True enough, but when I couple this plus the set of figures in a wave we could have bought off of HTS for $10 cheaper plus the $90+ I could have saved on GG busts lately if I only would have waited.... well, I can't help but feel a little burned. I'll be a much smarter shopper this year and be a ton more patient. I'm not a carded collector, so that holds no sway over me. So I have no need to rush out and get the figure first before the cards all get damaged from others rummaging through them.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 5, 2009, 02:07 PM
Thinking about this, I think that both of these vehicles sold rather well.  Sure some people will be put off by big items if they only purchased the AT-TE (as a toy not a collectible) because of the legs, and the same type of people might be put off by the BMF Falcon because it's so big, kids can't "fly" it around the room like you could with the previous version.  Still, I think these were successful enough that Hasbro will probably consider some items for the future:

We'll probably see:
-Turbo Tank -- mainly because it would be fairly easy to make and fairly sturdy.
-AT-AT -- Previous versions have done fairly well (minus the last TRU exclusive which I think you can still find)
-Death Star -- If Hasbro ever makes a playset again, it will be this.
-Jawa Sandcrawler -- They keep making Jawas...they need a ride and it would basically be a large box on treads so fairly easy to do for Hasbro

Probably won't see:
Jabba's Sail Barge -- I could be wrong, but I can't see Hasbro putting this together well enough for collectors, and I don't think it would sell as a toy
Sith Infiltrator -- Too bad they didn't make the one that was released the size of the Queen's Starship (but then I would not have the space to display it)
Any large EU vehicle -- anyone who wanted a Lady Luck or the like is SOL

I think we'll also a new AT-ST and possibly Slave 1 at some point...but I don't consider them big vehicles compared to the rest of the list.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 6, 2009, 09:59 AM
Thinking about this, I think that both of these vehicles sold rather well.  Sure some people will be put off by big items if they only purchased the AT-TE (as a toy not a collectible) because of the legs, and the same type of people might be put off by the BMF Falcon because it's so big, kids can't "fly" it around the room like you could with the previous version.  Still, I think these were successful enough that Hasbro will probably consider some items for the future:

We'll probably see:
-Turbo Tank -- mainly because it would be fairly easy to make and fairly sturdy.
-AT-AT -- Previous versions have done fairly well (minus the last TRU exclusive which I think you can still find)
-Death Star -- If Hasbro ever makes a playset again, it will be this.
-Jawa Sandcrawler -- They keep making Jawas...they need a ride and it would basically be a large box on treads so fairly easy to do for Hasbro

Probably won't see:
Jabba's Sail Barge -- I could be wrong, but I can't see Hasbro putting this together well enough for collectors, and I don't think it would sell as a toy
Sith Infiltrator -- Too bad they didn't make the one that was released the size of the Queen's Starship (but then I would not have the space to display it)
Any large EU vehicle -- anyone who wanted a Lady Luck or the like is SOL

I think we'll also a new AT-ST and possibly Slave 1 at some point...but I don't consider them big vehicles compared to the rest of the list.



I'll have to agree with you on all points here.

Though I STILL am holding out hope for Jabba's Sail Barge. In many collector polls it consistently ranks high if not first in most wanted ships, certainly most wanted large ships.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Keonobi on January 6, 2009, 10:05 AM
We'll probably see:
-Turbo Tank -- mainly because it would be fairly easy to make and fairly sturdy.
-AT-AT -- Previous versions have done fairly well (minus the last TRU exclusive which I think you can still find)
-Death Star -- If Hasbro ever makes a playset again, it will be this.
-Jawa Sandcrawler -- They keep making Jawas...they need a ride and it would basically be a large box on treads so fairly easy to do for Hasbro
What about the Twilight?  Based on the projected 4 to 5 seasons of the show, its probably going to get a lot of screen time, I could see them releasing one of these.  It'd probably have to be in the $50-$75 price range.  I'd expect a cockpit for 2-4 figures, plus the docking bay at the back, and maybe a speeder that pops out the bottom or something.  I think this would sell a lot better to the kiddies than either the Sandcrawler or Jabba's sailbarge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 6, 2009, 02:19 PM
A Sail Barge with BMF treatment would be amazing...

I know a lot of skeptics are going to say it's not going to happen, but a lot of those people would have said the same thing not too long ago about the AT-TE or the Falcon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 6, 2009, 03:17 PM
A Sail Barge with BMF treatment would be amazing...

I know a lot of skeptics are going to say it's not going to happen, but a lot of those people would have said the same thing not too long ago about the AT-TE or the Falcon.

I hear ya Chewie, and that's the same statement I'm going by. If they can do a BMF Falcon and the AT-TE, they can give us the Sail Barge.

I think it helped to have it in the CW movie, but it needs some exposure in the show as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on January 6, 2009, 06:36 PM
The Sail Barge is one of my most wanted items without a doubt.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 6, 2009, 07:29 PM
What about the Twilight?  Based on the projected 4 to 5 seasons of the show, its probably going to get a lot of screen time, I could see them releasing one of these.  It'd probably have to be in the $50-$75 price range.  I'd expect a cockpit for 2-4 figures, plus the docking bay at the back, and maybe a speeder that pops out the bottom or something.  I think this would sell a lot better to the kiddies than either the Sandcrawler or Jabba's sailbarge.

I didn't count the Twilight since I was focusing on Legacy vehicles not Clone Wars.  But then the AT-TE is a CLone Wars collection item so my bad on that.

I still don't think you'll see a sailbarge....you cannot compare Jabba's Sail Barge popularity and recognition to the Millenium Falcon's.  Sorry guys.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 7, 2009, 08:51 AM
I noticed that our local WM has 3 BMFs priced at $99 now.  I could kick myself for not saving the $50, but you just never know when this stuff is first released (at least, you don't know for sure).  Personally, I hope we see more big vehicles in the future.  I know many prefer all new stuff (mostly from prequels/Clone Wars), but I hope some more OT ships get the treatment in the future.  The AT-AT would be the largest most likely, but I wouldn't mind seeing other, smaller ships get re-done as well - Snowspeeder (which could be a $20 starfighter assortment vehicle), AT-ST, Slave 1, etc.  I haven't been to our local TRU in a bit, but there's no sign of the AT-TE at Target or WM here.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 7, 2009, 07:36 PM
Although we may see a new, larger AT-AT.  It will still be horribly underscaled.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 8, 2009, 10:59 AM
Although we may see a new, larger AT-AT.  It will still be horribly underscaled.

o doubts there. However if Hasbro pulls a one-two punch and gives a more properly (smaller) scaled snowspeeder, that will help tremendously in offsetting the difference in scale.

Right now, IIRC, the current (and still vintage mold) AT-AT and an Action Fleet Snowspeeder are near about the right scale to each other.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 8, 2009, 11:14 AM
Hmm... given what they did with the Falcon and AT-TE both in the same year, I'm thinking that the line could maybe support a new large vehicle or playset every Christmas season for the next few years... or at least every other year.  Kid interest seems to be near a peak right now in the modern era... and most of the same collectors I've been in contact for the past decade seem to still be in this for the long haul.

So, I would't automatically discount the chances of seeing a Sail Barge.  It would obviously help if it holds a prominent role later on in the CW series, or in the live action TV series.  But even if it doesn't, I think Hasbro has shown they have the ability to pull something like this off that would appeal to both kids and adults. 

I'm usually very optimistic about this sort of thing though.   ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on January 8, 2009, 11:24 AM
Quote
Has the response to the AT-TE and new Millennium Falcon been positive enough for Hasbro to consider doing a 3 3/4" scale Jabba's Sail Barge? (SWC, 10/17/08) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=1301)

     We will not be pursuing a Jabba's Sail Barge. Instead, we have to stick to the most iconic and high-demand vehicles for these upper price points. The Sail Barge, as cool as it is, just would not be popular enough with kids to justify the enormous costs.

Quote
With a renewed focus on Jabba-themed items and higher-ticket items (or a combination such as the forthcoming exclusive Sarlacc and Skiff), what is the likelihood that collectors will see either a full or partial Jabba's Sail Barge vehicle/playset in the coming year or two? If it's not currently on the drawing board, what factors would sway you toward developing and releasing one. (YN, 11/07/08) (http://yodasnews.com/)

     While we have discussed it, there is very little chance we would ever release this one simply because it has too many strikes against it. It is not a vehicle that kids would "vote" for, given a choice between a Sail Barge and more aggressive vehicles, it would take a massive development and tooling effort, and it simply is not iconic enough to command what would be a whopping price point. If we continue the big vehicle program, there is a long list of others we would consider before a Sail Barge.

Quote
A lot of collectors no doubt have a list of figures / vehicles / playsets / creatures etc. that they would love to see made, but is there anything on your own personal lists of wanted items that a) you know will be made and you can reveal to us and b) you can say categorically, is never going to see the light of day? (JN, 12/19/08) (http://jedinews.co.uk/news/news.aspx?newsID=2030)

     Very soon (mid-February) we will be revealing much more about what is coming next year and are going to hold that information until Toy Fare. Please trust us when we say it is going to be a fantastic year for kids and fans alike.

     As for what won't get made, that is a lot easier unfortunately.  One vehicle we would really love to see is the Sail Barge, but the chances of this vehicle ever seeing the light of day are extraordinarily slim.  We can dream, though!  Another one would be a real Krayt Dragon, a virtual impossibility given its massive size.  Even doing a skeleton as a background scenic element is daunting from a costing standpoint (and trust us, we've looked!).  So those are a couple things right there that would be very cool, but will likely never happen.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Morgbug on January 8, 2009, 11:47 AM
party pooper ::)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on January 8, 2009, 11:53 AM
What you call being a party pooper, I call being a realist.

You know the whole reason I started doing the Q & A Compendium, was that so I could do this sort of thing.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 8, 2009, 01:54 PM
I'm sure the chances that we'll get a Sail Barge made aren't too high, but I also don't believe everything Hasbro says in their Q & A's. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on January 8, 2009, 02:07 PM
I'm sure the chances that we'll get a Sail Barge made aren't too high, but I also don't believe everything Hasbro says in their Q & A's. 

Me neither.  I think they're using phrases such as "not popular enough with kids," "not iconic enough," "enormous costs," and "massive development and tooling effort" just to throw us collectors off the trail.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 8, 2009, 08:10 PM
What you call being a party pooper, I call being a realist.

You know the whole reason I started doing the Q & A Compendium, was that so I could do this sort of thing.

Poop on people's parties?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt on January 9, 2009, 12:58 AM
Poop on people's parties?

What party?  The one that Hasbro's never gonna throw for a vehicle that's never gonna come out?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on January 9, 2009, 09:33 AM
Hmm... given what they did with the Falcon and AT-TE both in the same year, I'm thinking that the line could maybe support a new large vehicle or playset every Christmas season for the next few years...

That's my thought/hope.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on January 9, 2009, 03:32 PM
Hmm... given what they did with the Falcon and AT-TE both in the same year, I'm thinking that the line could maybe support a new large vehicle or playset every Christmas season for the next few years...

That's my thought/hope.

I think two in the same year would be cool, one for the PT/Clone Wars and another for the OT. This year could have the Twilight and AT-ST. Next year could have the Turbo Tank and Blockade Runner, and so on. Of course, this would depend on how well the AT-TE and Falcon did.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 9, 2009, 06:43 PM
I think it would be better to not release two large vehicles at the same time.

David, do you really think the AT-ST would be considered a large vehicle?  I figure it's more along the AT-TP size.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on January 9, 2009, 07:19 PM
Just looked at some diagrams online, I thought the AT-ST was a little bigger. Never mind. :-[
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 9, 2009, 10:48 PM
The AT-ST, like the Spider Droid, is mostly "air".  Make the legs detachable, and you've actually got a vehicle you can squeeze into a small box and still make it to-scale.  If done right, Hasbro could even release an accurate ESB and ROTJ model with little effort...  It'd just need a few things to be removable/interchangeable.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 11, 2009, 12:08 PM
AT-TE's and Falcons are on clearance everywhere around me at Targets and WMs.  Does this bode well for the future of large vehicles?  Did they sell enough to recoup their cost?  Do retailers know there's more big vehicles coming so they're trying to make room?  Obviously Joe and TF should have a larger footprint this year - SW still has the CW cartoon so I can't see them scaling back shelf space.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on January 11, 2009, 02:39 PM
AT-TE's and Falcons are on clearance everywhere around me at Targets and WMs.  Does this bode well for the future of large vehicles?  Did they sell enough to recoup their cost?  Do retailers know there's more big vehicles coming so they're trying to make room?  Obviously Joe and TF should have a larger footprint this year - SW still has the CW cartoon so I can't see them scaling back shelf space.

I honestly think the biggest issues with the big vehicles this year has been price point and availability.  People are jumping at the opportunity to buy AT-TEs at $80 and Falcons at $100...maybe this is all part of the strategy.  You don't crowd the shelves and put out a very high price point with an initial release.  When sales or clearance hit, they knock a few bucks off, but maybe that's just going down to something still profitable.  If I was Hasbro and made a ship I wanted to retail for $100, why not offer it at $150, get those early adopters to pay an inflated price, then let it filter down to $100, where people are lining up to get them and thinking they got a huge deal.  There are a LOT of people who fool themselves into buying things based on what they're "saving" instead of whether the total cost is acceptable to them or not.

I think this is one of those issues where it's clear that the action figure section needs to be expanded.  There was a time when Target had an aisle and half of action figures - I don't know why they ever moved away from that.  When you consider how low the margin must be on things like the vehicle section (hot wheels) or some of the other slower moving toys in the department, it seems like they would be much better off trading off some of this dead weight to make more room for some of these lines.  Even the latest Target reset  has an expanded GI Joe set, but that's just 8 pegs of basic figs and a few pegs of comic packs at my store.  An extra aisle would offer much more room for some of these battle packs, smaller ships, and big playsets and vehicles.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 11, 2009, 03:02 PM
AT-TE's and Falcons are on clearance everywhere around me at Targets and WMs.  Does this bode well for the future of large vehicles?  Did they sell enough to recoup their cost?  Do retailers know there's more big vehicles coming so they're trying to make room?  Obviously Joe and TF should have a larger footprint this year - SW still has the CW cartoon so I can't see them scaling back shelf space.

That may just be a localized issue for you.  A lot of the reports I've been seeing locally as well as nationally indicate that sales were good.  AT-TE's sold through well, and Falcons sold too, but they're lingering a little.  I think that's price generated.

I don't know that we're going to see a huge shift in shelfspace for the GI Joe or Transformers movies.  There have been a number of movie based toy lines that have not performed well in recent years.  Transformers actually did reasonably well for the first movie.  GI Joe might be more of question mark for Hasbro.  The Joes have a big fan base, but will that translate to the kids?  Right now I've only seen about 4 feet of shelf space for the Joes at TRU stores.   And that's in an aisle that's totally devoted to military figures and toys.

As for Star Wars at retail?  The line is still one of the best performers in the boys toys category.  And with the success of the cartoon network series Star Wars is going to be more at the forefront.  Especially with kids getting into the Clone Wars line in a big way.  Star Wars may lose it's feature store at TRU stores to another movie, but I expect it to maintain a significant ammount of shelf space.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on January 11, 2009, 06:01 PM
I would assume that the next resets will find big big shelf space for GI Joe and Transformers due to the movies coming out this summer...but I don't think it will be at the expense of Star Wars.  More like the Comic side of the aisles
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on January 11, 2009, 06:08 PM
Yeah, Id guess that GI Joe and TFers will probably end up taking over the Indy space and some of the Marvel space since Marvel will be light on movies this summer (just Wolverine for the most part).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 12, 2009, 01:51 AM
Indy space is vast too...  That could go to several toy lines getting a big push.  My WM's still loaded with Indy falling off pegs in various parts of the store beyond the toy aisle.  It's really sad.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2009, 09:16 AM
I was reading through Adam's Q and A over at GH, and someone asked him what he expected to see at Toy Fair this year, etc.  One thing mentioned is that the BMF maybe didn't do as well as it could have, and we might not see any more OT "big" ships anytime soon.  I can say that the AT-TE does, at this point, seem to have outsold the BMF for certain (and by everyone's accounts here, that seems to be the general consensus) - although both seemed to do ok around here (I haven't seen any AT-TEs for awhile now, and there's a couple BMFs on clearance at WM - but that's about it).

Anyways, I hope that we'll see more OT ships get re-dos in the future at some point though.  They don't all need to be "huge" ships (Snowspeeder, AT-ST would be nice too), but I can't say I wouldn't be interested in newer versions of the Slave 1, AT-AT, and others.  Anyways, do you think the lack of interest is there for OT ships - or was the pricepoint just too high?  Is $100 the max for these "big" vehicles, even if they aren't quite perfect scale?  Not that the prequel/CW ships aren't cool too - I'm personally having a tough time passing them up right now, but I just don't have the budget/display space currently - but I wouldn't mind seeing a new OT ship here or there too.  In general, what do you think we have learned about what works/doesn't work with the big vehicle assortment this year?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 26, 2009, 10:46 AM
I think we learned that the market is there for large scaled items such as this in the $100-$150 range, provided that Hasbro keeps both kids and collectors in mind in the design of such items.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 26, 2009, 11:23 AM
With the freshly released pics of the Turbo Tank, there WILL be at least one more big item in the future.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on January 26, 2009, 11:33 AM
I think the Falcon suffered from a combination of many things... size, price, competiton, no media support, and most of all timing. I think Hasbro should try to only market one large vehicle at a time. I think a $150 AT-AT would do fine at retail. Collectors would be a bit more willing to buy as it wouldn't take up a lot of space, doesn't need much media support due to its relation to storm troopers, and if Hasbro is smart they would have it as the only large item on shelves. I think the timing of the Falcon hurt it due to the high price in the down economy, plus Hasbro had the cheaper and perhaps more kid-friendly AT-TE to tempt parents during the holidays. I hope the Turbo Tank does well so we do get an OT vehicle or two in the future. (Personally, I'd be more than willing to fork over $150 for an At-At and even $100 for a Sail Barge)
I cannot think of any other big Prequel vehicles that I want to own... I could see the Twilight and even the MTT being made, but those seem too risky for the big H.
It's still amazing to think that not even three years ago Hasbro couldn't stop saying that "big vehicles don't sell!", and now we're on our third new one.

I'm quite interested in seeing what this new G.I. Joe playset looks like and how it does at stores. I'm optimistic for the people who want some Star Wars playsets. However, I can't help but think that any playsets that are released will be a disappointment for collectors. I imagine any Hasbro-made playset to contain many spring activated features, spinning battle platforms (think Geonosis Arena) and a few missile launchers, thus killing the chances of a nice display environment for figures. As much as I'd like a Death Star tower playset similar to the vintage toy or a modular Tantive hallway, I think anything Hasbro does make will only dissappoint collectors, flop at retail, and further Hasbro's view of no playsets. Lets stick to vehicles if we want big items.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2009, 11:49 AM
I think those are good points on the Falcon, Greg.  As much as we might like to see them, I think one big vehicle ($100+) at retail a year is probably about the limit.  It might help spacing them out in spring/fall, but realistically, releasing the big item during the holiday shopping season makes the most sense.  Like you said, timing wasn't the best.  Economy in the crapper, spending down, competition from another large vehicle that is currently in media/TV/movies, definitely didn't help.  That said, I did see most of the Falcons sell in our area for the most part - although not quite as quickly as the AT-TE.

I think you have a good idea about the future of the big vehicles. It looks like the Clone Turbo Tank/Juggernaut is coming this year, and it looks cool (at least from the box art).  Then, like you said, currently we don't have quite as many real big vehicles from the PT - although that could change with the CW cartoon - so maybe in 2010 we see the AT-AT.  It makes sense with the big OT vehicles having a year off this year, and then release a brand new AT-AT for the 30th Anniversary of Empire Strikes Back.  Slave 1 could also be a choice, but the AT-AT may have more broad appeal.  Couple that with an all-new Snowspeeder in the "starfighter" assortment, and that would be a pretty good combo for 2010.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 26, 2009, 02:02 PM
Like others have said, I think the Falcon suffered from a few things, but I think the biggest factor is it's iconic to the old guard, not the new, and so the AT-TE outperformed it.  The Falcon's a great toy...  As a kid, I think I'd love it, however I'm thinking as a person who likes the OT too...  So yeah, as a kid I would love it, but kids today think differently...  AT-TE's are more popular with them because there's a TV show and a movie last year that featured it.  It wins... 

THe Turbo Tank has that going for it again, and so I think it'll do fairly well just as the AT-TE did.  The Falcon...  I still have about 8 of them at my local WM, now moved to lawn/garden, for $99.99...  Same ones that were there months before Christmas.  Great toy, great ship, but it didn't have support and so it didn't sell nearly as well.  I agree with Adam that it's maybe not likely we'll see a new large OT vehicle...  If the Falcon can't fly off shelves, I think that says a lot about any other potential OT toy.

I haven't seen an AT-TE now in about 2 months.  Even at full price they moved well.  I only got my 2nd one using a coupon code at Hasbro because, well, I sure wasn't gonna find it at retail for anything less than $100.  That's fairly impressive when you think about it, especially considering how many of the things were at all kinds of stores.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2009, 02:15 PM
Like others have said, I think the Falcon suffered from a few things, but I think the biggest factor is it's iconic to the old guard, not the new, and so the AT-TE outperformed it.  The Falcon's a great toy...  As a kid, I think I'd love it, however I'm thinking as a person who likes the OT too...  So yeah, as a kid I would love it, but kids today think differently...  AT-TE's are more popular with them because there's a TV show and a movie last year that featured it.  It wins... 

THe Turbo Tank has that going for it again, and so I think it'll do fairly well just as the AT-TE did.  The Falcon...  I still have about 8 of them at my local WM, now moved to lawn/garden, for $99.99...  Same ones that were there months before Christmas.  Great toy, great ship, but it didn't have support and so it didn't sell nearly as well.  I agree with Adam that it's maybe not likely we'll see a new large OT vehicle...  If the Falcon can't fly off shelves, I think that says a lot about any other potential OT toy.

I haven't seen an AT-TE now in about 2 months.  Even at full price they moved well.  I only got my 2nd one using a coupon code at Hasbro because, well, I sure wasn't gonna find it at retail for anything less than $100.  That's fairly impressive when you think about it, especially considering how many of the things were at all kinds of stores.

I have the same thinking Jesse.  As a kid, I would have been all about this new Falcon as well (just as I was with the vintage one then I guess) - but I have more of an OT mindset as well.  I can understand why the AT-TE maybe performed better - particularly with parents.  Even with collectors, it has some "army building" potential, and I've seen/heard comments from people that said "I already have a Falcon, this is all-new" - so that might have something to do with it too.

You make a good point that if the Falcon can't sell out, what hope does any other $100+ OT vehicle have?  The timing, etc. has been discussed and probably has something to do with it, but like I said before, I really hope this isn't the end of re-done OT vehicles - big or otherwise.  I think one a year is a better pace, and like I said, I think 2010 is as good as time as any to try another one - probably the AT-AT.  I know that the OT has had its time in the sun with the vintage, POTF2, and mixed in with the current line(s) - but there's a part of me that just misses seeing OT stuff at retail like this.  Not that I mind the PT/CW movies, shows or current vehicles (I still want an AT-TE, and the Juggernaut looks really nice from what we've seen) - I guess it just seems like its all prequel era all the time any more (or EU), and I like seeing a little more OT sprinkled in (although the figures for this year so far look nice).

Anyways, like I mentioned, the AT-TE is all gone around here too (and has been), and I'm getting awfully tempted to order one off of HTS if I can talk the Mrs. into it at some point.  I don't know what shipping would be, but it seems to be the only option now for those who missed it.  The Juggernaut might be even more tempting to me, I always liked that vehicle design for some reason.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 26, 2009, 04:17 PM
I look at a couple of things that were not in the Falcon's favor.  And this comes from listening to family that have some young kids that are into Star Wars.

-PRICE!  The price on the Falcon was too high for most parents to stomach.  And this economy did not help things.  I had family members asking me if I had an old Falcon that they could offer to their kids in lieu of one that was in stores for over $150.  The $100 price point was apparently much more attractive as far as a big toy goes.

-SIZE.  I love the BMF Falcon.  It's got pretty much anything I could've hoped for in a Falcon playset.  But it's size is such that holding it to "fly it around the room" is just not a possibility...even for an adult.  And imagine how that comes across for a kid.  The Falcon is supposed to be one of the fastest ships in the Star Wars universe, but that doesn't really translate to play value when a kid can barely even pick the thing up to move it around.  This is one aspect where the vintage Falcon succeeds since a kid can use that front landing gear as a handle in order to "fly" their Millenium Falcon.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Paul on January 26, 2009, 06:02 PM
I agree on the Victim of price thing.

$149 compared to $100 is a big thing, even if the economy is humming.

Even after seeing all the pictures on websites, I STILL did not fathom the size of that thing until I had it in the den on the floor (because as Nick said, you can't "Fly it")... worth every penny, but not an entry level piece for sure.


Maybe the live action show will have AT-AT's or something OT-ish....
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on January 26, 2009, 10:37 PM
Anyone still want an AT-TE for well below $100? I'm considering selling mine in favor of the new Turbo Tank.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 26, 2009, 10:48 PM
Unfortunately the shipping I think will be horrendous. :(  Otherwise I'd probably take you up on the offer David.  It'd be 3 for me, hah.  PM me if you can get a shipping quote for 15656...  Doesn't hurt to ask I figure.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on January 27, 2009, 09:26 AM
I'm going to have to take everyone's word on the BMF not selling well because it sold very well around here.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 27, 2009, 03:23 PM
I'm going to have to take everyone's word on the BMF not selling well because it sold very well around here.

Yeah, it did pretty well here to it seems.  Like I said, the only place I've seen them is at one of our Wal-Marts, where there is two or three on clearance for $99 each.  Target(s), TRU, and our other Wal-Marts have been sold out of both of the big vehicles.  I'd say they did pretty well here locally, and hopefully elsewhere too.  Its difficult to judge I guess - if its a failure if it didn't sell out 100% in the first six to eight months, then I guess it didn't do as well as expected.  If selling the majority is considered good, then it did ok here too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on January 27, 2009, 03:43 PM
well, i think the consensus was that the Falcon did well, just not as well. They're all sold out in my neighborhood, but then again I haven't been to TRU or K-Mart recently.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on January 27, 2009, 10:42 PM
I am in the it did really well around here camp.  I can find one here and there but it's certainly not rotting on the shelves anywhere around me.  But then again I live near Phx, AZ and they seem to have a ton of SW collectors in this area.  The AT-TE did even better of course.  I don't think there was any of this  Falcon on clearence for $65 stuff around me.  Maybe $125 around Christmas but not much less than that. 

Anyway, I am looking forward to the Turbo Tank and will most likely get it at full price.  Hopefully this time around there won't be another $100 plus item for it to compete against.  Unless of course they want to put the Sail Barge on the shelves.   That would be fine with me  ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on January 28, 2009, 02:54 PM
I think the AT-TE did better, because it's $50 cheaper, and it's an item that collectors (and very lucky kids) can have multiples of.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 28, 2009, 06:29 PM
I think the AT-TE did better, because it's $50 cheaper, and it's an item that collectors (and very lucky kids) can have multiples of.

Great point(s).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on February 2, 2009, 09:35 PM
Not sure if I mentioned this, but it is my belief, and PURE SPECULATION that the Falcon will be the connection between the OT and the Live Action TV show.  Lucasfilm knows this, and gave Hasbro the heads up, knowing that they could use a killer mold for the next few years.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on February 2, 2009, 11:04 PM
Right. Next time we see it, it will be $200 with a big red strip down the center.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 2, 2009, 11:06 PM
I pray, hope and beg that the Falcon does not show up in the TV series.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 2, 2009, 11:45 PM
I pray, hope and beg that the Falcon does not show up in the TV series.

Agreed 100%...  I want to see murderers, bounty hunters, and cool ****, but leave the Falcon out...  I really tire of "main stuff" tie-ins.

I won't be shocked at all if it shows up though, and if it's important to boot.  :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 3, 2009, 09:22 AM
It might not be "the" falcon, but could be another Corilian ship.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 3, 2009, 11:38 AM
Not to get this off topic, but I'm starting to get more interested in the live action series as well - even though it sounds like its a little while off yet.  Part of me would like to see some OT-ish connections, just because it would be nice to get back to that "time" as opposed to all the CW/PT era jazz we've had lately.  I'm not saying its time to have "young" versions of Han/Luke/Leia/etc. - but it would be nice to have some familiar things like minor OT characters/officers, familiar-looking ships (not exact necessarily, but similar).  Anyways, a discussion for another time/forum, but I'm wondering if more people might want to see familiar characters/items - or have no connection at all to the movies (R2/3PO, vehicles, etc. included).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 4, 2009, 05:29 PM
Minor connections yes, but no need for mainline characters. At least not in every story.

The occasional (rare) appearance by say Vader of Fett would be cool.

I'd like to see a Lando 2-3 part story arc. In fact the one where he first gets the Falcon would be awesome to see.

Of course there would be stormtroopers, Imperial officers, star destroyers, etc. So there would be enough background tie-ins. No need for Luke or Han.

A very young Leia could make a BRIEF appearance at the Senate on Coruscant and I wouldn't mind seeing Jimmy Smits reprise his Bail Organa role for a couple of episodes.

I'd like to see how the Rebellion started. (And NOT the Force Unleashed way...) Include young Mon Mothma and Garm Bel Iblis and this would be a great story arc.


There are plenty of minor characters to draw from. Important ones that could help further the story and background of the saga without having to bring in the "heavies" of Luke, or Han for instance.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 4, 2009, 06:21 PM
I'm all about an OT bridge that deals with the Rebellion and such, but not so much with characters like Yoda, Han, Chewie, Lando, Luke and Kenobi.  I love the characters, but don't want them to show up again until the old school films.

As for the founders of the Rebellion, that does have a lot of room.  Leia?  I can buy that completely.  She was involved as an Imperial senator and was important to the story before ANH.  Same goes for Bail Organa, Captain Antilles and the main droids.  Show them as much as you want because that makes sense.

Empire?  Of course Vader and Palpatine... and Tarkin would be fine too.  And a ton of new moffs, senators, goons, etc.  Stormtroopers galore.

Jabba?  Sure, in a limited capacity.  Though I think a new Hutt would be even better that has no relation to Jabba. 

Boba Fett?  I don't really care either way.  Maybe a small role.  But I don't really care.

I think that Lucas should look at introducing as many new characters as possible...Hell, create a whole new cast of main characters for the TV series with a main outcast Jedi, a smuggler or something, some survivors of the Confederacy that fight the Empire too, etc.  Could even throw in Shaak Ti too.  Love her.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on February 5, 2009, 09:16 AM
It´s time for a bigger at-at walker, with a cockpit for 4 action figures, more accesories from Hoth and Endor battles.

Just do it Hasbro (you know funny life is very challenging)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 9, 2009, 12:15 PM
I was just reading through the GH Q and A this week, and one of the questions discusses the "big" vehicle possibilities of the future.  It obviously look like the Juggernaut is on the way (and we'll probably learn more this weekend at Toy Fair), but do you think it is possible there's another "surprise" on the way like the Falcon was supposed to be last year?

Personally, as much as I'm all for re-done OT vehicles - and hope we see them over the next few years - I sort of hope there isn't a surprise big vehicle on the way.  If we're going to see two again, I would just as soon know now.  I have to really budget for these bigger items in particular, and still haven't been able to pick up an AT-TE for that reason (although I'd still like to at some point).  I'm interested in the Juggernaut as well, and plan on starting to save now to hopefully afford one - but if we get news of a re-done AT-AT, Slave 1, or whatever else from the OT - I'd likely want to pick that up as well.  Plus, I sort of lean more towards OT overall, so if I had to choose, I'd likely go for the OT offering.  I'd almost rather we only see one of these a year, or at least spread them out spring/fall (although spring might not have the sales power to support that).  I can understand the need for "surprises" and keeping customers wanting more, but for these big ticket items, I'd almost like more of a heads up personally.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on February 9, 2009, 12:20 PM
I was just reading through the GH Q and A this week....but do you think it is possible there's another "surprise" on the way like the Falcon was supposed to be last year?

I just got done reading it as well and it will be interesting to see what pans out.  As Adam stated - the AT-TE seems to have sold quite well, but the BMF?  Who knows - same thing in my neigbhorhood.  I do hope we get a nice XL OT suprise later on in the year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 9, 2009, 02:14 PM
I'd like something from the OT that could actually be done to-scale, so I'm pulling for basically smaller stuff.  The only larger ship I think I'd want an improvement on is Slave-I...  Beyond that, all the fighters, the AT-ST, Snowspeeder, speederbikes, are all fairly small and doable for well less than $100...  I'm not into the Sand Crawler, the AT-AT, etc., as they'll just never get done right.  The Falcon was at least iconic so undersized, it's still great.  These things aren't feasible to-scale items though.

The only thing I think they could do if they wanted is Jabba's sail Barge...  And the only reason I bring up the Barge is that the Nikto's deck cannon is made to attach to a railing, so that means there's a chance it'll be attaching to something...  Someday.  I think the level of action around the Sail Barge makes it at least possible as something they'd try, but I really don't hold any hope out for that.  I'd take it above an AT-AT or Sandcrawler though, for certain.

If they busted out a scale AT-ST, I'd be giddy...  Regardless (well, within reason anyway) of price I'd need a minimum of two I think.

The way the Falcon did though, I'm not hopeful for any OT surprise mega toy.  My WM still has 6 or 8 for $99.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 9, 2009, 05:39 PM
I'm with you Jesse, I'd really like to see some of the smaller ships get re-dos as well (the Snowspeeder in particular).  Like you said, the AT-ST/Snowspeeder/Speeder Bikes are all possible - and could probably all fit into the $20-$25 "starfighter" assortment if worked right.  The Slave 1 seems like a good possibility, and like I've said before, 2010 would be a good time with the 30th Anniv. of ESB.  Honestly, I'd probably be up for any new/redone OT ships, but I can see the issue with something like the AT-AT or Sandcrawler never being to scale.

As for the Falcon, I'm still curious to see what Hasbro will say about its sales.  There were a couple at our local WM for $99 a few weeks ago, but those are now gone.  I haven't found a single Falcon or AT-TE in our local stores (3 WMs, 3 Targets, 1 TRU) for awhile now, so hopefully that means sales have been good.  The AT-TE, as others have said, may have sold a little better/quicker though overall.  I still wonder if $100 is the real breaking point for a lot of people, casual buyers/parents in particular.  Like some have said before, if the Falcon - arguably one of if not the most well-known ship from Star Wars - has slower sales, what hope do a lot of other ships have.  Plus, we've discussed the timing/economic/competition issues as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 9, 2009, 05:58 PM
And the only reason I bring up the Barge is that the Nikto's deck cannon is made to attach to a railing, so that means there's a chance it'll be attaching to something...  Someday. 

Didn't you hear?  Nikto's deck cannon fits the updated mini-rig line.

(http://www.pomse2001.dk/Desert%20Sail%20Skiff%20Vehicle02.JPG)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 10, 2009, 04:06 AM
I think that gun will fit nicely on the Skiff from the Sarlacc BP.  I highly doubt you'll see a sailbarge in the near future.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 10, 2009, 12:08 PM
And the only reason I bring up the Barge is that the Nikto's deck cannon is made to attach to a railing, so that means there's a chance it'll be attaching to something...  Someday. 

Didn't you hear?  Nikto's deck cannon fits the updated mini-rig line.

(http://www.pomse2001.dk/Desert%20Sail%20Skiff%20Vehicle02.JPG)

And it'll cost $90.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 10, 2009, 03:17 PM
I wouldn't rule out a Sail Barge or new AT-AT... after all, if 2-3 years ago we were betting money that a bigger Falcon would come out in 2008, I don't think too many people would have have been "takers."
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 10, 2009, 06:48 PM
A Sail Barge is not really comparable to the Millenium Falcon.  You're talking about one vehicle that is more of a set than anything else and plays into about 15 minutes of action in ROTJ and gets minor involvement in the Clone Wars movie.  It's not really comparable to the Millenium Falcon which plays a central role in all three OT movies.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 10, 2009, 07:49 PM
True, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't sell.  Especially if it was only $100.  Not that it's not a risky item, but I wouldn't put the nails in the coffin just yet.

Who knows, the Sail Barge could also hold a prominent role later on in the Clone Wars series or live TV series.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 10, 2009, 08:38 PM
I'm not banking on a Sailbarge either...  I'd say maybe parts of the deck or something, are more likely, as just pack-ins.  I am not counting on much more, but still it's interesting to see that the deck cannon IS made to mount to a railing.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 10, 2009, 09:55 PM
The Millenium Falcon is FAR more marketable than the Sail Barge.  The Millenium Falcon is much closer to being a household name than the Sail Barge.  That means that it has huge name recognition as well as a visual appeal.  People know precisely what the Falcon is when they see it.

And that's where it ties in with the mass market.  There are a lot more kids whose parents buy them toys than there are collectors.  That is where Hasbro makes their money.  Kids are the primary market.  Can you sell the Sail Barge to kids?  That is a point of great debate.  Can you see the AT-TE or Turbo Tank to kids?  That seems far more likely.

The sales performance of the Falcon has yet to be discussed by Hasbro.  They certainly aren't going to cite numbers to collectors because of the competitive nature of the toy industry.  But I get the feeling that the $100 threshold is all that the market can truly bear right now.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 10, 2009, 10:03 PM
Yeah, the Falcon's more iconic.  But you'd be hard pressed to find a ship that isn't more iconic than the Falcon.

The Sail Barge is a strong candidate for a number of reasons, the least of which is that it's the doable big ship that hasn't been made before in any context.  I'd buy one, you'd buy one, and kids would love it.

Additionally, Hasbro's been teasing that the new Jabba would be "worth the wait," which combined with that deck cannon leads me to think that it's a definite possibility.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 10, 2009, 11:06 PM
The Millenium Falcon is FAR more marketable than the Sail Barge.  The Millenium Falcon is much closer to being a household name than the Sail Barge.  That means that it has huge name recognition as well as a visual appeal.  People know precisely what the Falcon is when they see it.

Is anyone actually saying that the Sail Barge is as iconic as the Falcon?  Not that I see.

If it does get made, I think we'll be happy.  That's why some of us like to discuss these sort of things.  Not that we think they're necessarily coming, or that we care to debate which vehicle is more iconic than the other.   
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 10, 2009, 11:36 PM
Additionally, Hasbro's been teasing that the new Jabba would be "worth the wait," which combined with that deck cannon leads me to think that it's a definite possibility.

I definitely wouldn't rule out the Sail Barge anyway, but those are good points Rob that make me think it's even something that Hasbro might have planned as a special surprise.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2009, 01:38 AM
I think that cannon that's coming with the Nikto is probably intended for the skiff more than anything else.  As soon as I get the Nikto I'll try out the cannon on one of the skiff rails.  I bet it's going to be a perfect fit.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on February 11, 2009, 10:29 AM
And the only reason I bring up the Barge is that the Nikto's deck cannon is made to attach to a railing, so that means there's a chance it'll be attaching to something...  Someday. 

Not to go off topic - but there has been a couple of Optimus Prime toys that have been released without a trailer yet there is a peg spot for a trailer.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on February 11, 2009, 11:17 AM
I would bring up the AT-TE Gunner and Turbo Tank driver from 2005, but those figures can now support the sail Barge theory.  :P

Anyway, I'm gonna say the deck gun attaches to the skiff. It was just re-released and the Nikto is a Skiff guard. I wouldn't be surprised if the Nikto came with a railing, but that would look rather stupid I think. Anyway, I think the Skiff had gun turrets/stations on it in a few video games, so that seems likely.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2009, 11:36 AM
Anyway, I'm gonna say the deck gun attaches to the skiff. It was just re-released and the Nikto is a Skiff guard.

Yes, he is.  But I'm pretty sure he was on the sail barge when he fired that deck cannon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on February 11, 2009, 11:41 AM
I'd love a Sail Barge, and I think it very well could be on its way. Hasbro's lied about big items in the past. :)

Not to change the subject, but I really want a Tantive IV if the big vehicles keep doing well. It could have the bridge and conference room from ROTS, and of course the hallways, plus they could take stuff from Battlefront II. I think it could be pretty cool. Does anyone else want the Tantive IV?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2009, 11:45 AM
Something like the Tantive wouldn't work as a vehicle IMO, a playset maybe, but the scale would have to be shrunk way too far to make it interesting I think.

I don't think Hasbro has this in them either.

(http://michaelfright.homestead.com/files/INSIDER_PICTURE.JPG)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 11, 2009, 01:41 PM
Just to reiterate that I don't personally think a Sailbarge is likely.  A part of it, maybe, for the deck cannon to attach to...  Could it be intended for the skiff?  Anything is possible, but this wave's a ways off, so I think it maybe is intended for something else in the future.  A part of the barge?  Maybe.  A toy barge?  You never really know...  I don't think it's likely though.

And yes, I want my Tantive IV just like that.  I bought a chunk of land near my house specifically for it.  I expect it will come with the only release of a new Fleet Trooper, making army building impossible.  And he'll have a massive mullet sculpted on him which will blow.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CorranHorn on February 11, 2009, 01:44 PM
And yes, I want my Tantive IV just like that.  I bought a chunk of land near my house specifically for it.  I expect it will come with the only release of a new Fleet Trooper, making army building impossible.  And he'll have a massive mullet sculpted on him which will blow.

BAHAHAHAHAHA! Good stuff!  :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 11, 2009, 01:53 PM
With this news for how well things were in 2008 for the brand from www.starwars.com -

Driven by the popularity of the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated television series, the Force remained strong in 2008 as Star Wars catapulted to the Number 1 spot of all traditional toy licenses, according to The NPD Group, Inc., Lucasfilm Ltd. announced today. U.S. toy retail sales for the brand in 2008 exceeded $450M.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars was the single most popular licensed toy property in 2008 according to data released by the NPD Group. It was also, as a result, the top boys' toy license of the year.

During the 2008 holiday season, U.S. retailers reported the strongest sales for Star Wars toys and products in the 31 years since the first Star Wars movie was released theatrically, even as the overall retail economy faced significant challenges.


If there's ever been a time for a Sail Barge, Death Star or whatever... the popularity and demand may never be higher than it is now.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on February 11, 2009, 02:00 PM
I believe all $99+ items going forward will be Clone Wars related.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 11, 2009, 02:20 PM
I believe all $99+ items going forward will be Clone Wars related.

That still doesn't rule out the Sail Barge as it was in the cartoon movie. Though it will need to make an appearance in the tv show in a SIGNIFICANT ACTION SCENE, to really be worth doing in Hasbro's eyes/mind.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on February 11, 2009, 02:33 PM
A Sail Barge is not really comparable to the Millenium Falcon.  You're talking about one vehicle that is more of a set than anything else and plays into about 15 minutes of action in ROTJ and gets minor involvement in the Clone Wars movie.

The AT-TE is a Clone Wars (animated) themed vehicle - not Legacy vehicle (movie) and it was only in two episodes and has no more than just a few minutes of screen time so I think we have a pretty good chance of a Sail Barge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 11, 2009, 03:28 PM
I believe all $99+ items going forward will be Clone Wars related.

Such as?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Keonobi on February 11, 2009, 03:41 PM
I believe all $99+ items going forward will be Clone Wars related.

Such as?

Not really a Hasbro product, but since the first 4 Episodes were released in a $20 set, the first season would be almost $100.   >:(

I can't think of anything in the TV show so far that would fit at that price point.  Unless they did something with the Twilight.  Maybe a pack with the Twilight and the Clone Wars Y-Wing....  I could see that going for $100.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: ruiner on February 11, 2009, 03:42 PM
I believe all $99+ items going forward will be Clone Wars related.

Such as?

Re-releases of the AT-TE.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 11, 2009, 06:21 PM
I still think you'll see a Death Star before you see Jabba's Sailbarge.

Hell, they gave us a new Cloud Car pilot and never put out a Cloud Car for him to fly!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2009, 06:26 PM
I still think you'll see a Death Star before you see Jabba's Sailbarge.

Hell, they gave us a new Cloud Car pilot and never put out a Cloud Car for him to fly!

Yeah but the Cloud Car never exploded on screen.   :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2009, 07:22 PM
A Sail Barge is not really comparable to the Millenium Falcon.  You're talking about one vehicle that is more of a set than anything else and plays into about 15 minutes of action in ROTJ and gets minor involvement in the Clone Wars movie.

The AT-TE is a Clone Wars (animated) themed vehicle - not Legacy vehicle (movie) and it was only in two episodes and has no more than just a few minutes of screen time so I think we have a pretty good chance of a Sail Barge.

The AT-TE has screen time in ATTACK OF THE CLONES, REVENGE OF THE SITH, the CLONE WARS movie and multiple Clone Wars episodes.  It's also an action oriented vehicle that lends itself to toy play value. 

The Turbo Tank has significantly less screen time but is being made as well.  Why?  It's an action oriented vehicle that lends itself to play value for kids.  It may very well wind up in the Clone Wars series at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on February 11, 2009, 07:45 PM
The AT-TE has screen time in ATTACK OF THE CLONES, REVENGE OF THE SITH, the CLONE WARS movie and multiple Clone Wars episodes.

Very true my friend, but I'm just trying to point out the marketing on these items.  How much screen time in the actual movies did the AT-TE have?  Two minutes maybe - at most?  The Turbo Tank - what 5-10 seconds in ROTS?  I also DO NOT count the Clone Wars as a movie...That was just a messy mess of four animated episodes slapped together so Lucas could buy a new fleet of golf carts.  Not trying to butt heads with you Nick - just trying to make a few points.   ;)

CLONE WARS = Animated
LEGACY = Movie

It's also an action oriented vehicle that lends itself to toy play value.

Anything can have play value if Hasbro puts their minds/hearts/souls into it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2009, 08:15 PM
The AT-TE has screen time in ATTACK OF THE CLONES, REVENGE OF THE SITH, the CLONE WARS movie and multiple Clone Wars episodes.

Very true my friend, but I'm just trying to point out the marketing on these items.  How much screen time in the actual movies did the AT-TE have?  Two minutes maybe - at most?  The Turbo Tank - what 5-10 seconds in ROTS?  I also DO NOT count the Clone Wars as a movie...That was just a messy mess of four animated episodes slapped together so Lucas could buy a new fleet of golf carts.  Not trying to butt heads with you Nick - just trying to make a few points.   ;)

CLONE WARS = Animated
LEGACY = Movie


It's all good.

The thing you're discounting is that when it comes to the vehicles, there really is no distinction between the movies and animated media.  There's a difference in the figures, but that's where it begins and ends.  There's no difference with the vehicles.  Both the animated and movie style figures work with the vehicles.  We're even seeing that train of thought with the deluxe line.  The Clone Wars figures retain their animated look, but the Can Cell looks like it's a reissue of the ROTS Deluxe piece.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on February 11, 2009, 08:16 PM
I don't imagine that Lucas is a golfer...maybe he built, developed, and staffed two new animation studios with the cash.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on February 11, 2009, 08:21 PM
I think that Hasbro knocked out the better big vehicles rather quickly. I don't see a Sail Barge or Twilight being released soon but I do see them as more likely candidates. I could see an AT-AT coming in 2010/2011. I'm quite surprised that Hasbro is cranking out the Turbo Tank before any AT-TE repaints. After thinking about it some, I don't think the
Sail Barge is out of the realm of possibility for the 30th Anniversary of ROTJ. (2013) Source material/screen time seems to have less to do with the vehicle choices. It seems to weigh more heavily on who uses it. Clearly Clone Trooper related stuff sells best, no matter what it is. That thinking leads me to believe the AT-AT will be out fairly soon. Overall, the big vehicle well seems a litte skimpy now... Twilight, Sand Crawler, Sail Barge, AT-AT, and MTT are the only ones that stand out as possibilites to be made without getting more into the playset category (Star Destroyer, Death Star) I don't know if this means we might get a new big vehicle every Christmas or if more repaints are due after this Turbo Tank release.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2009, 08:54 PM
If the Twilight continues to play a prominent role in the Clone Wars series, I think it's got a better than average shot at being made.  Certainly better than the Sail Barge.

Now don't get me wrong.  I'm not a Sail Barge hater.  I'd like one just as much as the next collector.  But I think if you try to look at this through Hasbro's eyes, the Sail Barge doesn't have as much mass appeal as some other items.  Hasbro has to be a little ruthless about how they approach things.  They're in this to make money with the Star Wars master toy license.  The development, tooling and marketing costs of a Sail Barge might seriously outweigh the profit potential of a Sail Barge at retail.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2009, 10:26 PM
I could see an AT-AT coming in 2010/2011.

If the line is still performing strongly, I'd expect them to try something like that for the 30th anniversary of ESB next year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 12, 2009, 09:19 AM
I still think you'll see a Death Star before you see Jabba's Sailbarge.

For the love of God, please.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on February 12, 2009, 09:57 AM
If they ever make a Death Star I will have something to post about in the "Excited by Toys" thread.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 12, 2009, 11:48 AM
Personally, I think it's a no-brainer that there needs to be some kid interest in the higher ticket items... but I don't think that just because something isn't Clone Wars related or as iconic as the Falcon, that it won't generate interest.

Really though, like someone said earlier in the thread, with a new Jabba apparently coming, the Nikto with the gun attachment, maybe a Sail Barge IS coming?  Maybe this is why Target is holding onto the UBP's in their planogram too, so there's a Sail Barge theme already present with the skiff and Sarlacc Pit?  Just a thought.

And knows... maybe in the Clone Wars, there will be a Tatooine trilogy of episodes where there are several sail barges in "Jabba's Fleet" and one of them is manned by clone troopers or something... I mean why not?  I doubt that ROTJ is the first time Jabba ever took his Sail Barge for a cruise to the Sarlacc Pit... sounds like he's been down that road before with other handfuls of prisoners who've pissed him off.   ;)

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 12, 2009, 02:51 PM
While I am sure this item will be cool, I am just not that excited over this one. I think there were better choice to put before it but I understand the CW tie in need. I would have really loved to see a killer play set of a Destroyer Bridge. That way you could use it for either OT or PT. (I understand the aggressive kid appeal factor need so this is purely the illogical, selfish collector in me speaking. I would really geek out on a detailed "setting" more than a vehicle.)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 22, 2009, 07:58 PM
Honestly, I think I'd rather have an Ebon Hawk than a Sail Barge.  Although since it's been so long since the KOTOR release, I dobt it's a priority.

Maybe if more KOTOR figures are made it will spark some interest.  Hell, the HK-47 is the first BAD I'm actually going to try and build!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EpicGon on February 22, 2009, 08:21 PM
Hasbro it´s time your sculptors try a new and bigger rebel transport.

This would be a great challenge for you! Do it Hasbro, make sw collectors smile.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: David on February 22, 2009, 09:31 PM
Hasbro it´s time your sculptors try a new and bigger rebel transport.

This would be a great challenge for you! Do it Hasbro, make sw collectors smile.



That's not a bad idea! I forgot all about that ship. They could also take some creative liberty with the interior.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 23, 2009, 12:46 AM
The Rebel Transport has been mentioned in the Q&A process.  Specifically referencing the vintage Rebel Transport which was half vehicle/half carrying case.  Hasbro said that it's not on their "parking lot" of things to do.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 23, 2009, 09:54 AM
Too bad. The Rebel transport is awesome.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 23, 2009, 12:21 PM
Vintage ones are out there, and they're not priced too crazily.  Most of them just need a good cleaning.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 23, 2009, 04:05 PM
Vintage ones are out there, and they're not priced too crazily.  Most of them just need a good cleaning.

That's how I got mine.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 23, 2009, 05:07 PM
I'm sure it would be cool, but the Rebel Transport isn't too high on my list.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Keonobi on February 23, 2009, 05:10 PM
Plus asking for a new Transport would only be greeted by Hasbro's new favorite phrase that they prefer to focus on more "aggressive" products.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 24, 2009, 08:55 AM
I was just listening to the audio from Hasbro's Toy Fair presentation (at JediInsider), and they (I think Derryl DePriest) does say that there is only one big vehicle this year.  He mentions how last year he denied the existence of the Falcon, and he said this year "trust me, there's just one".  They then go on to introduce the deluxe/$60 pricepoint vehicles, which is maybe why there is just one.  Who knows what to believe with all Hasbro's secrecy/misdirection the last couple years, but it sounds like the Turbo Tank is the only "big one" this year.  That's fine with me, because I think having two out at once last year made it a little difficult for many people to grab both if they wanted to.  Hopefully we'll see an OT offering in the assortment next year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 24, 2009, 09:14 AM
Vintage ones are out there, and they're not priced too crazily.  Most of them just need a good cleaning.

That's how I got mine.

Same here. It would be interesting to see what Hasbro could do with an update though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 16, 2009, 04:36 PM
So there are some rumblings around another(R) place that the big AT-AT might be shelved.  At least until the economy gets better.

And based on the shelfwarming of some of the current large vehicles that are out now, I can understand why this might be happening.  I still see the Falcon and AT-TE at TRU stores with alarming regularity.  And the Turbo Tank hasn't exactly been flying out of stores.  And on top of that I've scarcely ever seen one at a WalMart store.  It seems very clear that the retailers are playing things very close to the vest.  And at this point I can't see them taking another chance on a large vehicle like a Big AT-AT.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: efranks on November 16, 2009, 06:20 PM
I have seen Falcons at a couple of TRU stores recently but nowhere near as many as I have AT-TEs.  What I'd like to know is how TRU and some discount chains have been blowing out the AT-TE for $50 or less this year if it was really such a great seller last year.  Just seems odd.

I haven't seen a lot of Turbo Tanks moving at my local Target, which is the only store in town carrying them.  They have sold a couple, but not like they sold the AT-TE last year.  I think the lack of the Tank in the cartoon may play a role.  The AT-TE is showing up in nearly every episode this season already...where's the tank?  Still seems like kind of an odd choice to me since the only exposure to the Tank was one scene in ROTS, 4 years ago.

I've seen people posting about how the AT-AT "has" to come out, that it's an iconic ship and will sell, blah, blah, blah.  But honestly, the previous release of the vintage/POTF2 version was about $100 and it's still rather large.  Could Hasbro go much larger and hit the $100 price of the AT-TE/Tank or would they have to go Falcon price at $150?  No matter how iconic the AT-AT is, does it rise to the standards of the Falcon?  Even in a better economy $150 is a significant investment and could the AT-AT pull that kind of money?

The Falcon makes an excellent playset.  The AT-TE and Tank do also, to a slightly lesser extent IMO, but would an AT-AT?  Maybe, but I'm not sure what they'd do with it to take it up a notch.

I really think that if Hasbro wanted to do another larger vehicle and have it sell, they should tackle the Twilight.  Make it large enough to be a fun playset with a cockpit and docking bay, but make it so that a 4-8 y/o kid can still pick it up and play with it like a spaceship.  Probably couldn't get it large enough to fit a Jedi Starfighter in it, but you could get the new Freeco speeder and/or a couple BARC speeders in it...room for two cockpit seats and a console for R2 to plug into.  Maybe a spot for the holo table that came with Yularen to plug into the floor for briefings, sick bay for droids and humans.  Firing missiles, maybe some sounds.  Throw in an Anakin figure and price it $100-$125 for Christmas? 

I've seen Slave I kicked around as an option.  I'm not sold on that.  We've seen the cockpit and the loading ramp.  Sure it would be nice for a larger version that could realistically get 2 people into the cockpit and have a spot for a Carbonite block, but we mostly see Slave I chasing Han in ESB and blasting away at Obi-Wan in AOTC.  That's all it really needs to do, anything else becomes more of a playset and that's not really the ship for it IMO. 

The Republic Gunship is another one mentioned.  While I could argue in favor of a larger ship; hold more of the hundreds of Clones we own, split the doors, better scale with the turrets, etc., this is a large ship that's already running us $70 now.  Bigger may be too big.  I'm actually fine with a few more tweaks to this version (split door, fasten in that floor panel) and then maybe one per year with new nose art.

   E...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 16, 2009, 07:42 PM
Good points eFranks.  I think if they do make a larger AT-AT it would most likely be in the $150 range.  With them releasing an updated AT-AT driver in the newest ESB wave, I think it makes it a higher probability, although with the economy the way it is, I can see them holding off...possibly make a new Veers and it will definitely happen.

I have not seen a BMF Falcon in a long time, an AT-TE in just as long...although I do not frequent the TRU in town.  I would think they'd have them in stock more than Wal-Mart because they are primarily a toy store and Wal-Mart and Target are not.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on November 16, 2009, 07:53 PM
I have sort of enjoyed getting one "big" new vehicle each year, and in particular was hoping for a new OT remake.  Like others have said though, to make an AT-AT redo worthwhile, it would probably have to be more in the $150 range...which may be a bit high.  The Falcons and AT-TEs at TRU here do seem to be selling pretty well, and those AT-TEs go like crazy when they are on those $50 sales.  It is actually one of the times I've seen a bit of a shopping frenzy for Star Wars aside from the Midnight Madness stuff.

Like others have said, the Turbo Tank seems to be a bit of a slower seller (at least so far).  I've seen some go, but they definitely aren't selling like crazy.  I was hoping we'd see a "BMF" treatment for the Slave 1 or AT-AT next year, but I could see why retailers would maybe be a bit sketchy on trying out more of these right now.  I can see the point made about some of those other vehicles not being as "playsety" as the Falcon or AT-TE, but seeing what Hasbro has been able to do with OT redos lately (figures, beasts, and vehicles), I'd just like to see some more updates to those OT favorites.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on November 16, 2009, 10:40 PM
I am on record as being 100% in support of the Twilight as the next Big Ship offering. Could not agree more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on November 16, 2009, 10:57 PM
The thing an AT-AT has going for it that others don't quite as much, is it's a lot of air, and not as much toy as one imagines.  The Turbo Tank with long thin legs on it...  Is it that bad an idea then?  Not really, but that's basically what a beefed up AT-AT would be IMO.  The other thing it has going for it is it looks like any other Clone tank...  Kids I think will enjoy the AT-ST for instance, regardless where it's from, because it looks clonish.

That said...

AT-AT's aren't iconic.  Iconic's a word thrown around this hobby entirely too much, and the AT-AT is not.  And that's my FAVORITE vehicle of the OT without a doubt.  I love it.  But I don't think it's where Hasbro should focus their attention.  It's just not iconic.  If anything from the OT's iconic it's the Falcon first, maybe X-Wings or TIE Fighters second...  beyond that, none of it's iconic. 

Same with environments...  The Death Star's iconic.  Jabba's Palace isn't, but there'd be an army of people fast to step up and say, "Yes it is!  You just don't understand!", and all that jazz.

I love my AT-ST...  If they give us updates to existing stuff like that, that are that good, I'm ok with never seeing the AT-AT updated ever.  As far as that goes I'd gladly live without the Twilight and other very large items, if it means some of the smaller things are going to get done to the extreme like the AT-ST.  That's just me though.

But to the point, if they are going to do anything large scale, I'd think the Twilight would be where the smart money is...  That's something in the $100+ range again.  There's very little (nothing really) I'd think has any support for it quite like that does.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on November 17, 2009, 12:07 AM
While I like the Twilight I do not think it's that safe of an investment for the Big Vehicle slot. I think the AT-AT is a safer bet of the two. It's as aggressive as a AT-TE to appeal to kids and has major collector appeal. (I would buy two!) Not to mention it is one of the most memorable OT vehicles.

Between the TT slow sales and the Joe Command center I can see Hasbro shelving the big boys until 2013 when the economy picks up.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on November 17, 2009, 09:24 AM
I think Hasbro was evasive in the latest At-At question. When something is not in the works, like the Taun Taun, the are pretty adamant about it. With items in the works, they tend to be coy.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 17, 2009, 12:32 PM
I've been thinking about this topic again lately.  What do you think the future will hold for "big items" in the Star Wars line?  We're about a week out from Christmas now, and I can't say that I'm seeing those Turbo Tanks move off the shelves any quicker.  Either that, or they are stocking them like crazy.  The AT-TEs and Falcons seem to have done very well at TRU here, although a lot of that may have been due to the half off sales.

We've had rumors of both an AT-AT or a Slave 1 for next year, but recent rumblings make it sound like these might be less likely (depending on how the Turbo Tank does).  I'm one who loves seeing these re-dos of the OT ships, and hope we get lots more (can't wait for the Snowspeeder and Cloud Car), but I'm wondering how well they will do at retail.  Like it has been discussed before, even the Falcon sat (and hit big clearances in some areas), and I don't know that there is a more recognizable "big" ship in all of Star Wars.

Any OT offerings would likely have to have big sales from us - the collectors - because (aside from kids of collectors/fans) I sort of doubt how many kids have an interest in OT stuff anymore.  I hate to even say it, but maybe the exclusive route (as the AT-ST and Dewback got this year) might be the way to go.  I know we all hate exclusives, but I'm just wondering if there are many other solid options for retail-wide big, $100 (or more) vehicles.  Like I said, I hope we see more (I'm up for about anything OT), but I don't want the next offering to kill the whole range and opportunity to get more big vehicles.  Unless something new is introduced in the Clone Wars, I'm not sure anything there is too solid aside from possibly the Twilight (which has been discussed here as well).  Sure, there are a few droid/seperatist options, but I just don't see those selling well with the kiddos in particular.

I've said it before, I wasn't collecting at the very beginning of the POTF2 lines - but it sure seems like many to possibly most collectors were buying up all the OT ships then when they were essentially just the vintage ships spiffed up a bit and repackaged.  Now when we're getting all-new versions of these ships, I don't know that even half of us are biting.  It may be a sign of some of us getting older, running out of room, or even just being pickier...but something has changed in that aspect of things.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on December 17, 2009, 01:47 PM
I think the Turbo Tank was a foolish move on Hasbro's part anyways. That thing was seen for about 2 seconds in ROTS, and no one even interacted with it.

The AT-AT would have a better chance because several minutes of Empire Stikes Back were spent with the rebels acting like "holy ****! Here come some Imperial Walkers! Our weapons can't take those things down! We're royally ****** now! Holy ****! It stepped on Luke's speeder! Oh man! Luke's climbing up underneath one to take it out!" The direct interaction makes a big difference. Think about it, the AT-ATs probably had just slightly less screen time than Boba Fett.

Jesse, I agree with you about the AT-AT not necessarily being iconic, but on the other hand, it is highly recognizable by the general public. Even my mom knows the AT-AT by name. I don't think she would be able to name many more OT vehicles than that, or even a single thing in the prequel trilogy.

I think in a retail showdown, the AT-AT would far outsell the Turbo Tank. I never even considered buying a Tubo Tank, but I would gladly buy 2 larger AT-ATs.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 17, 2009, 01:53 PM
In my area, the big vehicles seem to be selling pretty well and that includes the Turbo Tank... trying to find one at TRU or Target on any given day is a task, and that's by looking at 5-6 stores until you find one.  At Wal-Mart, you do see more of them, but that was the case with the Falcon and AT-TE as well.  Those 2009 offerings apparently did well enough to warrant the Turbo Tank; and I can't see a trend that the 2009 big offering is going to be a bottleneck for this format. 

So from my view, I think we'll see another big vehicle of some sort in 2010, and my personal opinion is that a "big one" should not be an exclusive.  If it is, you can chalk up maybe an additional 25%-50% price tag on it.  Not something I think anyone wants to see.  And I think Hasbro has made it clear they're not interested in making the Twilight, so if they make that, whatever.  I'd get it just because I like larger vehicles for display, but I wouldn't be all bonkers over it like I would some other items. 

As for collector habits changing, sure some people have.  Look at the market of 10 years ago - seems like most collectors that I associated with were in our early 20s... now most I know are in their 30s, and there have been some major life changes for most (such as having kids, much less room for our own toys, changes in priorities, etc.)  I know it's affected me a lot, but I'm not going to pass up something like a new AT-AT,  Sail Barge or Death Star because of that.  I'm in this for the long haul (at least as long as Hasbro continues to make collector oriented items - if they were to abandon us, then I'll happily abandon them).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on December 17, 2009, 02:28 PM
I don't know if this can realistically be used as any sort of "measuring stick" but not only are the Millenium Falcon or the AT-TE NOT available on HTS, but also, as of writing this, they are out of stock on both the Turbo Tank and the G.I. Joe PIT MOBILE HEADQUARTERS. 

The first 2 missing from HTS isn't a shocker to me, but the last 2 being sold out is hopefully a prett good sign.  Granted these items were both 20% off and had free shipping going for them, but hey - they are selling.

If they were sitting around collecting dust in a warehouse I would like to think that HTS would have them up for sale.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on December 17, 2009, 02:30 PM
...As for collector habits changing, sure some people have.  Look at the market of 10 years ago - seems like most collectors that I associated with were in our early 20s... now most I know are in their 30s, and there have been some major life changes for most (such as having kids, much less room for our own toys, changes in priorities, etc.)  I know it's affected me a lot, but I'm not going to pass up something like a new AT-AT,  Sail Barge or Death Star because of that.  I'm in this for the long haul (at least as long as Hasbro continues to make collector oriented items - if they were to abandon us, then I'll happily abandon them).

Man, you hit things right on the mark there. I just bought and moved into a new home last month. I'm already running out of room. However, I'd happily buy a "reasonably" priced NEW AT-AT.  

As for the Sail Barge and Death Star, those are tops on my list. More so the Death Star as I see that as a scalable, modular playset. Well, playsetS really. I don't want an all-in-one DS playset. I'd rather have several from the different major scenes.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on December 17, 2009, 02:32 PM
As I said in the rumor thread though, I really do not think the AT TE and BMF have been in production this year at all.  So stock being sold at TRU and the like is over 2 years old.  That right there should be a red flag...the second being that it takes 50% off sales to even move those items.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on December 17, 2009, 02:46 PM
As I said in the rumor thread though, I really do not think the AT TE and BMF have been in production this year at all.  So stock being sold at TRU and the like is over 2 years old.  That right there should be a red flag...the second being that it takes 50% off sales to even move those items.

Yeah, I agree they haven't been made recently and you are right, they probably are two years old - but even so with that being the case the sales that did go through did warrant Hasbro to go ahead and make future large items ie Turbo Tank and the Pit - and, just saying, by looking at a small sample (HTS's supply) perhaps they are selling well enough again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on December 17, 2009, 02:56 PM
I think the Turbo Tank was a foolish move on Hasbro's part anyways.

I think LFL shares the blame too - at Toy Fair, Hasbro kept saying how they were told by LFL that the new Clone Turbo Tank (which again, was always intended to be based on the size in the animated series and not the massively sized Juggernaut from the movies) would be a "major player" in the animated series, which is what prompted them to give it a try (not the seconds of screen time in the movie).

I don't know if plans changed at LFL for Season 2 or if the wires got crossed, but the Tubro Tank was hardly a "major player".  Yeah it got used a few times in the first few episodes or here or there, but not anywhere near as much as it was hyped it would be...  so is that Hasbro's fault for believing LFL when they said it'd be prominently featured or is it Hasbro's fault alone for choosing that tank in the first place?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 17, 2009, 03:02 PM
Personally, I love the Turbo Tank and from what I can tell, it's not doing bad at retail whatsoever.  To each his own, I guess. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 17, 2009, 04:19 PM
I agree with Jeff...  I've heard there is more Turbo Tank focus in episodes that haven't aired yet and things, so if that's the case, and those got pushed back for some reason, that threw a big fat grenade into the plans Hasbro had.

Hasbro said a while back leading into Christmas that the Turbo Tank wasn't selling as well as they had expected.  So that's pretty much fact at that point...  I wonder if it's changed?  The TT's went from front endcaps at my local WM's to back ones earlier in December and that was a little disturbing I thought.  You'd think you would want them out front.

Target's TT's are just chlling where they always have...  TRU I see the same basic number each time I'm in the store but I'm not in TRU as much as the others.  I can't say they're selling here then, but I'm curious if Hasbro has any update on it themselves.

I don't see AT-TE's anywhere but TJ Maxx now though.  Those have been gone here for a bit.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth Broem on December 17, 2009, 05:54 PM
Obviously the problem with big ships is the price themselves.  I think the interest was there for both the AT-TE and Falcon but they were both released at the same time during a bad economy.  I thought they sold pretty well despite those conditions.  But I am sure many would not pull the trigger on a $175 Falcon.  Yeah, even $100 is a sticker shock for the AT-TE.  But many of us bit the bullet because we really wanted those two items.  I would probably be inclined to do the same with an all new AT-AT.  I might cringe at whatever price it is but still buy it at the regular price. 

Here is the problem with the Turbo Tank.  It just does not have near the demand as those other three items would have.  Naturally you were going to get the interest from OT collectors for a new Falcon with all the bells and whistles after 30 years of the vintage mold.  It was time for an update.  Overdue in fact.  Of course there was a huge demand for the AT-TE built up since AOTC came out.  Then it got the push it needed with the Clone Wars series coming out.   I just don't feel the NEED to rush out and plunk down $100 on the Turbo Tank.  Although I admit I want one and I am glad they made it. 

However, after hearing people get an AT-TE for $15 or the more likely $50 just simply by waiting a few months well that's what I'm going to do with the Turbo Tank.  Hell the Falcon is over 50% off to.  So, why would I run out and buy the TT for $100?  We all know it will get clearanced for half off and people like me know it and are just going to wait it out  I know I should not because supposedly Hasbro will not make more big ships in the future.  Well the hell with that because they act like they are not going to make them anyway.  The only other big item I would really want is the either the Jabba's Sail Barge or Death Star Playset/Dioramas.  Secondary would be the Blockade Runner and Droid Transport MTT.  But they always act like it's impossible to bring those items out.  So, where is my incentive to rush out and pay $100 for the TT?  Geez, they won't even make a Death Star Playset/Dioramas.  If they won't come out with basically THE most iconic vehicle/playset of the entire saga why would they make a Sail Barge or anything else regardless? 


 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 17, 2009, 08:49 PM
That's a good point.  It has been discussed here before, but releasing the Falcon and AT-TE at the same time probably didn't help them any - and the economic situation couldn't have been much worse.  Everyone was tightening their belts (collectors included), and they put out $250 worth of ships at the same time.  If the "BMF" had come out during the big OTC push with the release of the DVDs, it might have done very well (not that it did terrible last year either necessarily).

The Turbo Tank, as has been mentioned, just didn't have the demand for it either.  I'll admit, it does look like a fun toy, and I'm one of those waiting to see if it will hit $50 or lower next year and I might grab it - but if not, I won't feel like I missed out.  Now if we see an AT-AT or something like that, I'll be saving up as soon as we hear about it.  Same with anything else OT.  Also, I want to make clear from my earlier post, I don't want to see all these things - especially large items - go the exclusive route either.  They are a pain, and particularly at WM really hit and miss around here (still no Dewback locally, after no A-Wing last year) - but I'm just wondering if that is what will have to happen for a lot of Original Trilogy items from here on out - at least ones that don't "fit" into a regular assortment.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greedo The Green Menace on December 17, 2009, 09:28 PM
The turbo tank seems to be doing quite well in my area (Canada) I've seen several being bought up by parents and theres only a couple left at most of my local stores. Our Toys R Us was sold out for a good little while there.
As for the AT-AT, that's probably something I'd buy right off, wouldn't even wait for a sale.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 18, 2009, 12:03 PM
The whole Turbo Tank "not in demand" thing has to be a regional thing... this vehicle is moving just as well as the AT-TE did last year in my area. 

As for the AT-AT, I think we need to consider that while collectors seem to be dying for it, maybe the kids are not as much as we are... regardless though, I think we're at a point where there's several large scaled items, that if made and were fairly representative of what we see on screen, would do fine at retail.  I don't see doom and gloom for these items or a signal that what came out last year or this year bombed. 

So unless we hear it straight from Hasbro that there's not going to be a "Big One" next year and beyond, I'll continue to be optimistic on this subject and will pay full price for items like this (after all, I've been pushing for them for years and will continue to do so as long as I am interested in this hobby).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 18, 2009, 12:18 PM
As for the AT-AT, I think we need to consider that while collectors seem to be dying for it, maybe the kids are not as much as we are... regardless though, I think we're at a point where there's several large scaled items, that if made and were fairly representative of what we see on screen, would do fine at retail.  I don't see doom and gloom for these items or a signal that what came out last year or this year bombed.

That is what I was thinking as well when talking of perhaps OT items needing to be exclusives at this point.  The AT-AT would maybe be something "on the edge" that could be retail-wide like the Falcon was, but beyond that I'm not sure if others (talking big items here) could do that (unless Hasbro changed their tune and decided to do some sort of Death Star).  Like you mentioned, I don't know that kids would care too much about the AT-AT or other OT items for the most part - so it would largely depend on collectors.  And, no matter how awesome it would be, it seems like many collectors are passing on more and more of this stuff lately (due to changing interests/space or price issues/etc.), so there might be a lot "left over" if it was available everywhere.  It is hard to say for sure though.  Like I said, I think more collectors bought all the vehicles back in the POTF2 days than do now, no matter how improved they might be.  A sign of having rooms upon rooms of this stuff maybe, or the higher prices/burn out issues, but it is something to consider with future "big" offerings.  I'm anxious to see what Toy Fair brings.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on December 22, 2009, 10:29 AM
Interesting response from the latest round of Q&A:

Another rumor is that the ARC-170 Shadow Fighter has doomed the $69.99 Deluxe Vehicle Assortment. This is true to an extent, since the slow rate of sale of the ARC-170 Shadow Fighter has not given the Y-Wing a lot of daylight to shine. Still, when the Y-Wing has gotten out there, it has not done as well as the Turbo Tank. We don't think it's because the Y-Wing isn't a great vehicle, but more to do with there currently being less discretionary purchases above $50 in '09 than we saw in '08 when both the Millenium Falcon and AT-TE were successful.

Maybe people just don't want to pay $70 for a crappy repaint?

In another question someone asked about new mid sized vehicles for next year, and they alluded to ANOTHER repainted Gunship. (What is that, six or seven now?) This seems senseless to me, as we still need the updated Geonosian Starfighter from the "original" CW non-animated line. They have the perfect excuse to make this now, with that 4 part ARC from earlier this season.

It wouldn't hurt to give us Dooku's Solar Sailer too...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on December 22, 2009, 11:14 AM
$70 was just simply too expensive for the repainted ARC or the new Y-Wing, I think.  I also took that as a bit of a signal from Hasbro that the $100 Turbo Tank has done ok this year in their eyes.   
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: efranks on December 22, 2009, 04:07 PM
I think this new $70 price point is a little out of hand.  There was no way I was going to pay for an ARC-170 at that price for a repaint with no updated sculpt or action, and it didn't even come with a figure.

The Y-Wing, while it's all new, maybe could be justified, but I still think it's overpriced by about $20.  I was very unhappy last year with the Walmart Gunship at $50 but I'd love to have that price back now that TRU's exclusive was $70 also.  I bought both Gunships (Walmart and TRU versions), but passed on the Tank and Y-Wing as well as Target's exlusives, TIE, X-Wing and Rancor. 

Of those three Target exclusives, the X-Wing is the only one I'm kicking myself over.  I was out of money and had been passing on the two at my store and then the week I had the cash, they'd both sold over the weekend.  So unless I spot one this week while I'm travelling, I'll probably not pick that one up either.

For 2010 I wouldn't mind seeing the AT-AT.  I know a lot of people like it, I'm in the camp that thinks it is an iconic vehicle for the Original Trilogy, and if Hasbro was going to pick a vehicle to give the $100 - $150 treatment, the AT-AT fits the bill.  But, I won't buy it.

I wouldn't buy a super-sized Slave I either.  I really like the AOTC Jango/Target Boba versions, and have both.  It's a ship that has one exciting scene in AOTC and then one kind of boring scene in ESB.  I think what we have suits the purpose with the only possible upgrade being a storage spot for Han in Carbonite. 

I'd prefer to see new vehicles in the smaller scales.  The Cloud Car and Snowspeeder are excellent.  I'd like a new ROTJ Speeder Bike, I'd like the Geonosis Starfighter to come back (maybe with an update or two).  I'd like the AT-RT to be around, even if they took out the walking feature.  I think we're overdue for seeing Luke's landspeeder in stores.  How about an updated Naboo Fighter?  Something to give the Jedi Starfighters a rest.

   E...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on December 22, 2009, 06:57 PM
On the issue of prices, I try to think of how it compares with the 1:18 military figures and vehicles I collected...  Their planes are scaled exact to the figures, so they make for pretty huge toys.  The Y-Wing is pretty huge...  And if it were an OT Y-Wing it actually would be considered to-scale I believe, according to the numbers on that ship's supposed dimensions anyway.

1:18 planes cost a low $50 to $75 more or less...  It depended.  My Avenger Torpedo Bomber was, I think, $75 at full price and that's the biggest plane I have, and plus it came with a crew of three unique figures, it was made of generally higher quality plastic than a lot of Hasbro's vehicles come molded in, it had elaborate paint application and decaling applied, and it's probably comprised of at least double (possibly triple or more) the number of individual parts that the CW Y-Wing is comprised of.  It also features full cockpit details, etc., etc., etc.  I can gush for hours on the positives about this.  Oh!  And its wings even fold up so it fits compactly in an Aircraft Carrier's hangar deck.

OK, so that was $75 a few years ago...  The only argument against it that can be made is the license, but for $75 you got totally what you paid for there. 

The Y-Wing looks like a sweet toy to me...  It has a couple neat features, but Hasbro tends to make very simplified molds.  The Falcon for instance is very cool, but the interior's comprised of as few pieces as possible.  It's like an insert into a shell rather than many separate pieces.  The Y-Wing, ARC-170, and most of their other items are like this...  Streamlined to save costs.  This is something I consider when evaluating the item's cost to its "value" as a toy.

Comparing the Y-Wing to the 1:18 plane then though, and they're not far removed from one another, they're similarly priced but the level of quality comparison isn't even in the ballpark.  The licensing issue is the only arguable point then (and some of the planes I have, are actually licensed, sometimes double licensed as the manufacturer's name plus the specific pilot's plane can hold licenses).   

Do I then feel the Y-Wing is worth it?  Eh...  I think it's cool, but $70's steep.  If it had been OT and done to scale (say the YW, or an X-Wing or B-WIng or some other ship that hasn't been done to-scale), I'd probably be more willing to cave and say it was worth it to ME, but that's just to me and because I'm biased to the OT design, not because I feel I can compare the two and say they are equal.  I just would be so giddy to get a to-scale version of a large OT fighter that I'd have blinders on I think.

I think the CW Y-Wing rocks as a toy...  So does the ARC-170.  Neither really is "worth it" to me though, as far as their full retail price.  I think $50's more fair.  And even then, that's steep IMO, but falling into my realm of value meeting the quality that's being delivered.

That's just sort of my outside opinion as I didn't buy the YW, mostly because it's underscaled according to what the EU is claiming that ship's size to be.  I still think it's a cool toy though.  Would a kid rather have 3 mid-size vehicles or 1 deluxe vehicle though?  Sometimes when you quantify it in terms like that, it starts looking less cool as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on December 23, 2009, 12:04 PM
Excellent points on the big vehicle topic guys.  I gathered from Hasbro's answers this round as well that the deluxe line doesn't seem to be flying off the shelves.  They cite that the Y-Wing is still getting out there, but then they also mention how the Turbo Tank is doing better than the Y-Wing.  I have to admit, although it has definitely been more scarce, the Y-Wing hasn't been impossible to find by any means either.  I picked one up at Target with a discount/gift card, so I ended up paying about $52 for it.  Like others have said, $50 would seem about right for this item.  Still a little high maybe, but I don't think we would have seen nearly as many complaints if the "deluxe" vehicle line was priced around there.

I'm curious if we'll see this continue next year at all or not (not to mention the "BMF" sized vehicles).  They did mention a couple times this round that collectors don't seem as interested in vehicles as well, so maybe - outside of the starfighter assortment and some exclusives - we may not be seeing as many of those (at least new ones) either.  I'm thankful that the Snowspeeder and Cloud Car are both confirmed, with all the doom and gloom answers regarding anything collectors are interested in these days.  Definitely looking forward to those, and still hoping we'll see some more OT ship re-dos.  Like Jesse, I wouldn't mind seeing an OT Y-Wing re-done (as well as most of the others).  Probably a longer shot, but I'll admit the CW one made me want an new OT one even more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: tmanthegreat on December 23, 2009, 01:36 PM
Jesse James brings up some interesting points in his post regarding the prices, and I will have to agree with him.  I have the CW Y-Wing and it is a good attempt by Hasbro, but falls short of what it could have been, especially for the price.  While it was a ship that I had to get, it was by no means a bargain for the $70 I spent on it.  Large vehicles do not need to be cut out completely, however. What Hasbro needs to do is simply adjust their prices better for what they make or simply make fewer of the larger more detailed items and cater those items towards the collector market that is getting them.  

I am first and foremost a collector of the 1:18 scale military items Jesse James mentioned above and the ratio of detail versus the price point have always been greater than what Hasbro has offered.  Really one cannot compare a 1:18 scale P-51D Mustang made by 21st Century Toys to the similar-priced Hasbro X-Wing and never mind the larger 1:18 scale aircraft and vehicles.  It only seems that in recent years Hasbro is addressing the detail issue on their vehicles, so we get items like the new AT-ST and retooled TIE Interceptor that start to better approach the scale and level of detail that is seen in the military collecting world.  Greater levels of detail will necessitate higher pirces, but that would make the items more worth it in the end.  

What is all the more interesting is that the companies that produced the 1:18 military items were much smaller than Hasbro and catered to a very limited collector market.  That limited focus did spell the demise of two companies that produced the models - most notably 21st Century Toys - but that company was tiny with nowhere near the staff, organization, or market clout that Hasbro possesses.  Far more people buy and collect Star Wars items than 1:18 scale aircraft and tanks, however, the 1:18 manufacturers traditionally kept their prices low on more complex models and with a fraction of the resources that Hasbro possesses and only a fraction of the conusmers.  

That said, I really see no reason why Hasbro cannot continue to make larger, better scaled, and highly detailed toys/models even if they were produced on a limited scale and geared more towards collectors.  They would be able to spare the resources and still turn a profit.            
  
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on December 25, 2009, 12:31 AM
I would not be surprised if Hasbro tried to get one more vehicle out as part of the $70 price-point line. Specifically, I'm thinking another Gunship repaint might show up since that vehicle can also fit into this packaging footprint.

They could also put an X-Wing in that packaging as well - perhaps a Red-5 X-Wing since the only Red-5's that have come out are the version with the fixed Luke figure and the Dagobah dirty version. An ANH version that could be used with the VOTC Luke or Smiley Luke would be nice.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Force Guy on December 25, 2009, 12:57 AM
Definitely the Death Star.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 25, 2009, 02:12 PM
Another rumor is that the ARC-170 Shadow Fighter has doomed the $69.99 Deluxe Vehicle Assortment.

Everyone saw this coming they should have delayed the SKU instead they opted for a Kamikaze run. I got the ARC for $45 at a Toy show and its really sharp but not $70 sharp. $45 was pushed it to the limit. I got the Y-wing for $60 after coupons and while it was done nicely the price was too high for what was there. That thing should have had lights/sounds, figure and way more deco. A $50 price point seemed more fitting for this SKU.

Not really sure what other vehicles could have found there way here but it would seem they would have to be a Starfighter type of vehicle like the ARC or Y-Wing. I will not miss this slot, I prefer to pay $100 or $150 on something that rocks. All signs point to an AT-AT which I would gladly buy two of. I would not mind a new Slave One but it fan iconic not mass iconic like the AT-AT is. Plus it can easily translate to the CW crowd.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 4, 2010, 02:37 PM
This might already have been discussed here, not sure.  But according to a new report at Bantha Skull, there's another "Big One" on the way for 2010... and it's priced at $99.99 with the DPCI 087-06-1503

So looks like both Hasbro and their retailer partners agree that there's still a market for this sort of thing in spite of the economy.

Let's hope it's something most of us collectors will enjoy, and that the kiddos will too!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 4, 2010, 03:27 PM
I so WANT it to be an AT-AT, but I'm worried that $100 is too little for a significant update.  To be a minimalist about it, Hasbro could almost keep the head size and leg size/length, and just upscale the body to look more proportional.  Some think it's a new Slave 1, and that just seems so unlikely to me.

Edit: I thought I'd do a little rough MS Paint messing around, so I took the POTF2 AT-AT and upscaled the body and legs 125% of what they were, to get an idea of proportion.  Here's the rough:

(http://threads.rebelscum.com/photogallery/data//1451/POTF2atatleft.jpg)

(http://threads.rebelscum.com/photogallery/data//1451/atatnew1.JPG)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on January 4, 2010, 04:26 PM
Sigh...$100 would be a perfect price point for a large scale Separatist shuttle for the TCW line, or the Twilight.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jayson on January 4, 2010, 04:42 PM
Not a lot of "fun factor" for a separatist shuttle nor all that iconic for parents during gift giving season when this would probably be scheduled.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: IncomT65 on January 5, 2010, 07:23 AM
Let's hope it's something most of us collectors will enjoy, and that the kiddos will too!

Aren't we all still kids?  ;D

What Daigo_Bah shows, doesn't look bad at all, but if Hasbro decides to redo the behemoth of Hoth, I'd still prefer a retooled head as well. The vintage/POTF2 one looks fat compared to the real thing  ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 5, 2010, 02:08 PM
I know we've only seen one real shot of the new AT-AT, and we're all looking forward to Toy Fair, but I was just thinking about what could be made beyond this as we look further into 2011.  I'm still hoping that this "one big vehicle per year" program can continue, as it really seems like something neat for both kids and collectors to have in the line (that "big" Christmas present, if you will).  I'm wondering what are some realistic options for this line going forward.  It really seems like from Hasbro's responses that droid/Seperatist vehicles aren't terribly likely.  There are some other vehicles from both CW and the movies that are sort of borderline in being "worth" $100 (like the Twilight, new OT X-Wings/Y-Wings/B-Wings, etc.)  One thing I'm surprised we haven't seen is an upscaled Gunship.  I know they can sell the heck out of those repaints (and have), and that might be a big reason why we haven't seen a new one - but it seems to fit all the other criteria.  It is large enough to fit that pricepoint (especially decked out with features), has a huge presence on the animated series (nearly every episode), and also is recognizable from the movies.  That might be an option for the future.  As always, I'm always up for more OT re-dos as well, so if they want to do the Slave 1, one of the fighters (again, maybe not big enough for $100), or the Sail Barge (wishful thinking), I'd be fine with that too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 5, 2010, 03:28 PM
Nice post!
I love the big boys to look forward as well to but I am not sure how many are left that are viable. I am in that camp of wishful thinking of a Sail Barge, that is my most wanted Big vehicle. That is the vehicle I would love to see next and one Hasbro has interest in so there is a smidge of hope. After all they said the Cloud Car would never happen and it's now coming.

I personally do not see them redoing a Gunship at this point in time. As Brian pointed out there is a lot of money to be made on the current one still. Plus, on top of  all of that they just reinvested in it this year with new guns, canon missiles, side doors and Gun pods. I am quite happy with this vehicle as it's stand now and would not even want a larger scale one due to the room factor and it's just not enticing to spend $100 for a semi current vehicle that I have 6 of. The 6 are manageable scale and I really like all of them but I need to ditch 1-2 of them it's just too much of one thing.

Here are some of my thoughts on what could work at $100-150:

- Sailbarge/Jabbas Palace combo. The interior could take some liberties to resemble Jabbas Palace more. seen in CW animated and ROTS this could work. Without the Trooper factor it makes the suits uneasy.
- Star Destroyer - While we could never get one to scale or even close there is a lot of potential to do one with CW crossover appeal. This would at least have to be $150+ to do it right in a sizeable scale that could meet kids/collectors happy. This should be the FLAGG of SW.
- The AOTC huge laser station tank thing that shot down the Trade Federation Ship center "Balls". This can make an appearance in the CW cartoon, it was seen in the movie and is Clone related. Throw in the mini battlefield command port station Yoda was commanding in and this could be a cool combo
- Rebel Troop Transport: Not likely but like the Sarlacc concept above can it open up to resemble Echo Base? F@#k it just repaint the old one and add some new parts to it.

I see the Twilight and Slave one in a $80 or less category. I really do not see them as $100+ vehicles nor do I see the demand. While I would not mind a new Slave One it's lower on my totem pole of what I would love to see resculpted. I do see this one more likely as it has Jango redeco possibilities and if the STAN sighting holds true this was developed and we may see it at TF as the big surprise caveat. After all its first appearance was ESB....

Here is my smoking peace pipe dream for the new line of play sets called "Modlarz" (Love that 00' flare in the name)
- Dagobah Play set with all the film fix'ns: Think of this bad boy as two levels. L1 Swing Vine/Training area, l2 Cave with Electronic sound/lights, L1&2 X-wing swamp sink action, Launching R2 and Yoda's crib complete with a bed that has a flipping action to have Yoda in it then when he croaks push the Force trigger to flip the trap door bed for his disappearance into the Force!
- Bespin playset 9Carbo Chamber/Duel area/Droid factory and Dining Room. Too lazy to type more.
- Death Star. The most touched upon play set discussion that I do not even need to type about.
- DS
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 5, 2010, 04:04 PM
I'd actually like to see them beef up the X-Wing, Y-Wing, B-Wing, and Gunship to-scale.  I'd love that actually, but I'm not hopeful.  The current CW Y-Wing is actually about right for an OT Y-Wing, but I just don't hold much hope they'll ever get these up to the standards of the big wing TIE or whatnot.

Hell, X-Wings and Y-WIngs alone would have me scrambling to afford all I wanted I think. 

But for $100 they'd better be damn special too...  for $70 I'd be a little forgiving on most aspects but the scale of it (which would have to be pretty spot-on).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 5, 2010, 04:12 PM
I don't really have any interest in up-scaled X-Wings, Gunships or Y-Wings.  I would think that after the $65 pricepoint disaster, Hasbro's not looking to that scale much in the foreseeable future anyway, but who knows.

I am however strongly in favor of an expansion of the $100-$150 line, with large vehicles and some playsets done right.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 6, 2010, 11:03 PM
Yeah, I'm fine with the longer X-wings in the modern line and the Y-wing while small is fine. I wanted the new CW Y-wing, but I refuse to pay that much for it.

I like others would really rather see a modular Death Star playset(s) and Sail Barge. Hell the Sail Barge can be used as a toy chest to store toys when not in use by kids. The packaging can even make that statement to hit the point home further.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 7, 2010, 09:52 AM
I wanted the new CW Y-wing, but I refuse to pay that much for it.


You're not missing much at any price.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 7, 2010, 04:58 PM
I bought the Y-Wing for $45 at Wal-Mart.  At that price, I think it's reasonable. 

Also, in regards to a Sail Barge (and even a Death Star playset), I think the chances are improving with each $100 item Hasbro makes that doesn't flop.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Lestat on February 22, 2010, 11:39 AM
I don't know if this has been asked before but does anyone know when the new AT-AT comes out?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JesseVader08 on February 22, 2010, 12:13 PM
August 2010.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dan on February 22, 2010, 04:42 PM
It is a tad ironic that the big items are hitting at what has to be the eventual "tail" of the line. I wanted playsets, death star dioramas, bigger ships, and just about everything else you could dream up. But that was 5-10 years ago. Now, I'm cutting back spending, selling off portions of the 15 years worth of excess, and trying to turn the collection into a size that can be managed, displayed (in rotation), and enjoyed, rather than catlogued and boxed away.
It is amazing how much work collecting can be, and how much more work it can be to scale down the collection! But, I will happily replace my AT-AT's this summer. I love Empire, and am glad to see all the product being produced. I just don't know how much of it I am going to end up with, as I don't need a 3rd Dengar, 4-Lom, Zuckuss, or slave 1, or 10th (or more) Fett.
For those that are looking for them, I hope they make the sail barge, death star, and whatever else can be contrived from plastic. I just don't know how much more you can possibly have, and still manage to enjoy (that's not a slam, I just realized I had past that point myself some time ago).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on February 22, 2010, 07:09 PM
I'd love to see an updated Sandcrawler, though I doubt it will ever happen.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on February 22, 2010, 08:43 PM
It is a tad ironic that the big items are hitting at what has to be the eventual "tail" of the line. I wanted playsets, death star dioramas, bigger ships, and just about everything else you could dream up. But that was 5-10 years ago. Now, I'm cutting back spending, selling off portions of the 15 years worth of excess, and trying to turn the collection into a size that can be managed, displayed (in rotation), and enjoyed, rather than catlogued and boxed away.
It is amazing how much work collecting can be, and how much more work it can be to scale down the collection! But, I will happily replace my AT-AT's this summer. I love Empire, and am glad to see all the product being produced. I just don't know how much of it I am going to end up with, as I don't need a 3rd Dengar, 4-Lom, Zuckuss, or slave 1, or 10th (or more) Fett.
For those that are looking for them, I hope they make the sail barge, death star, and whatever else can be contrived from plastic. I just don't know how much more you can possibly have, and still manage to enjoy (that's not a slam, I just realized I had past that point myself some time ago).

I think your opinion echos the thoughts of a lot of collectors.  My collection is far beyond what I ever dreamed it would be.  While I haven't slown down as much as some, I am definitely thin on space and would have paced myself more had I known some of these bigger items would eventually be made.  Hasbro maintained a no/few playsets policy for a long time, frequently answering that they could not make big remodeled ships and playsets profitable.  Yet, here we are in 2010 with plenty of new awesomeness to collect.

I'll continue to pick up most of what's released, but I am buying less than I used to.  :-\
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 22, 2010, 09:53 PM
That's why I've cut a lot of vehicle-buying out...  It's just too much.  Figures at least are easier to store.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 23, 2010, 08:45 AM
It is a tad ironic that the big items are hitting at what has to be the eventual "tail" of the line. I wanted playsets, death star dioramas, bigger ships, and just about everything else you could dream up. But that was 5-10 years ago. Now, I'm cutting back spending, selling off portions of the 15 years worth of excess, and trying to turn the collection into a size that can be managed, displayed (in rotation), and enjoyed, rather than catlogued and boxed away.
It is amazing how much work collecting can be, and how much more work it can be to scale down the collection! But, I will happily replace my AT-AT's this summer. I love Empire, and am glad to see all the product being produced. I just don't know how much of it I am going to end up with, as I don't need a 3rd Dengar, 4-Lom, Zuckuss, or slave 1, or 10th (or more) Fett.
For those that are looking for them, I hope they make the sail barge, death star, and whatever else can be contrived from plastic. I just don't know how much more you can possibly have, and still manage to enjoy (that's not a slam, I just realized I had past that point myself some time ago).

Wow Dan, it's like you crawled inside my head with your response. I agree with everything you posted.

I'm going to use some of the time between now and the Vintage release to go through my stuff and sell what I know I don't want anymore. I've got a huge basement filled with stuff, but it's all in tubs and boxes so I can't enjoy looking at it. I need to get my collection to about 30-40% of the size it is now.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 23, 2010, 12:32 PM
I'm with others, I think Dan is hitting on something that a lot of us have given some thought to lately.  I know it has been discussed before in the forums in various ways, but I think a lot of us are either running out of room, moving on to other things, or just content with what we have.  I know that I personally am enjoying the quality of stuff we're getting probably more than ever, and I'm pretty psyched about the upcoming Vintage Collection as well and all its nostalgic goodness - but at the same time I'm constantly assessing what I want/need in my collection, as it has just become so much to keep track of and display/store these days.

I'm someone who doesn't necessarily want to collect stuff to just put in storage, I'd rather display as much as I can (when possible).  I'm restricted to one room (our office) in our house, and between Star Wars and some "other" lines (primarily Marvel/DC), it is getting to be pretty full.  I still enjoy it all, and don't really "regret" anything I purchase these days - but I don't necessarily need our office/collection room to look like a Toys R Us or a kids playroom.  I've thought about cutting out anything prequels/CW outside of the figures, but then things like the AT-TE (for $50) and neat ships like the V-19, CW starfighters, etc. come along.  I try to swear off "other" lines, then things like Indy, 25th Joes, Marvel Legends/Universe, and DCU and MOTU Classics come along.  That, along with trying to display not only Hasbro 3 3/4" stuff, along with things ranging from glasses to 7" Unleashed to Galactic Heroes makes it a bit crowded.  I have to say, along with budgetary concerns, the main reason I'm constantly trying to figure out what to collect is the simple fact that I don't have that much room anymore.  I really like a lot of the stuff coming out these days (not just SW, but toy lines in general have improved so much over the past few years I think)...but it is just hard to buy when there is nowhere for it to go.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on April 27, 2010, 10:13 PM
I read from one of the QnA's that the older non BMF Falcon is being re-released this year.

I read that statement as a re-release (or additional shipments) of the BMF in the old blue & white packaging for e-tailers. I'm hoping that's the case, as putting out the old mold again would be ridiculous.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 28, 2010, 11:02 AM
I read that statement as a re-release (or additional shipments) of the BMF in the old blue & white packaging for e-tailers. I'm hoping that's the case, as putting out the old mold again would be ridiculous.

JI: In one of the Q&A's last month you said the AT-ST would be re-released with a Hoth deco this year for the Empire Strikes Back anniversary. Are there any plans to re-release the BMF Falcon with some Empire Strikes Back love?

Hasbro: The Millennium Falcon (new, bigger version) will not be re-released to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of EpV. However, the original version (in original blue/white packaging) will be released in limited quantities for web-retailers later this Fall.


Ridiculous it is   ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 28, 2010, 11:04 AM
I would not buy a clone wars version of a new Salve One. I'll wait for the OT version.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on April 28, 2010, 11:05 AM
Although that answer is worded really strange, I think that Hasbro is actually talking about the BMF being re-released for online retailers.  I know it says "original", but I think they were trying to say "we're not releasing the BMF in new packaging, but the original Legacy (blue/white) one will be available online again this Fall".  That's how I read it anyways.  It would be silly to release the old vintage/POTF2 mold again, but they've done stranger things I guess.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 28, 2010, 11:16 AM
Ya I kinda read it the other way, but I suppose it can be read the other way as well.   :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 28, 2010, 11:39 AM
I agree with Greg and Brian - they must be talking about re-issuing the 2008 blue/white box Falcon.

Not only would putting out the old mold Falcon be "ridiculous" or "silly" like they said, it would also be impossible.

Hasbro's BMF press release included the news that the classic Falcon mold cracked, which is what caused them to go BMF in the first place...  let's see if I can find the quote - ah, here we go (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1215029188,36194,):

"Last year, the toy’s steel production mold – which was used to create hundreds of thousands of MILLENNIUM FALCON toys – suffered a crack that rendered the tool damaged beyond repair."

So, if they are telling the truth and they don't have that old mold anymore, re-releasing the vintage/PotF2 Falcon is pretty much not going to happen...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on April 28, 2010, 12:06 PM
That's three large vehicles in one year then - if everything pans out with the Slave I.  I sure hope this isn't overkill and will lead to the death of these larger beasts.   :-\
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 4, 2010, 05:55 PM
We all now Hasbro is famous for semantics with their wording. If you read carefully it states: NO LARGER SCALE UPDATES OF MOVIE VEHICLES. That means no larger resculpts of ships already made. So the Sail Barge is still in play as well. As you pointed out since the Slave 1 can be considered CW it's pretty much a done deal.

The speculation on a Sail Barge or other large Movie vehicle never produced can live.......for now.

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on May 4, 2010, 08:56 PM
Kind of a silly question asking about a new Imperial Shuttle - come to think about it.  I consider that thing to be a done deal and they nailed it with the 80's mold IMO.  Sure they can tweak it, but I'm perfectly fine with the several I already own.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on May 4, 2010, 10:02 PM
I've had peole ask me about a new Shuttle, but I've never really thought it was likely considering the ship's not really that recognizeable, it's sort of boring...  Part of me marvels it has a toy to begin with.  It's one of those things that updating it really is only a fan wank if they ever even considered it.  WOuld kids ever care? 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jayson on May 4, 2010, 10:28 PM
I too would be happy if they passed on revisiting the Imp. Shuttle as I'm content with the Vintage/Saga/TSC version. I much rather have them focus on something that actually did something other that taxi around old codgers and/or pitiful little bands.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on May 4, 2010, 11:12 PM
I personally, if they did OT stuff, would really rather see fighters redone...  I can't say I would even want a Sail Barge at this point.  I've got enough really huge stuff in my collection that I'm pretty content.  Big fighters though, that look good with the big wing TIE?  Those are few and far between in this line to me, and the Imperial fleet, which should be smaller, actually looks quite beefy next to all the Reb stuff.  Kind of sad really.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on May 4, 2010, 11:37 PM
I can't say I would even want a Sail Barge at this point. 

Says the guy who only ever really considers buying a ship if it's true to scale.   ::)   :P

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on May 4, 2010, 11:50 PM
True, but that was one at one point that I was kind of interested in... Just for the display purposes and things though.   And to be fair, my love of these actually looking less comical next to the figures they go with is partly why I'm really more interested in larger fighters, and less interested in HUGE vehicles like we've gotten the last few years I guess too, so they go hand-in-hand a bit. 

Now...  Eh.  I've got the Falcon, and that's center-piece enough for me I guess.  I kind of wanted a Sail Barge because there's so much action on it, you've got a good home for every goon of Jabba's...  I lost my luster for that since the AT-TE and Falcon though I think.  I cannot see how I can display too many more big things like that, when fighters I tend to do a bit of hanging with and there's still display room there for me.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on May 5, 2010, 10:14 AM
I'm with you there on the space for all this big stuff Jesse.  I think the big vehicles are great, but it really is becoming a challenge to get everything out and displayed.  That's the reason why I'm always toying with either getting rid of the PT/CW era stuff, or just packing some of it up.  Then I look at the AT-TE, or even things like the ARC 170 or Gunship, and I just can't put them away.  Plus, a lot of the starfighter and deluxe line vehicles from that era are pretty spiffy.

As far as the Imperial Shuttle, I don't see a reason to redo that ship either.  I actually kind of like the previous version (I have the Target exclusive one from a few years ago), and don't have a need for a larger or changed one.  I'd still like to see more OT re-dos, and I think the starfighters Jesse mentioned would be great candidates.  I'm also in for a Slave I if that happens, although I hope we get an ESB repaint of it if we're getting the CW version first (which sounds likely).  Otherwise, they are starting to cover a lot of the rest pretty well.  We got the Falcon, a new AT-ST, a new AT-AT/Snowspeeder/Cloud Car on the way, the big winged TIE, and a pretty nice Landspeeder from the SAGA line.  I do hope we see some of the rest get redone too, as well as more of the beasts (particularly the Taun Taun)....but I'm not sure if there is much left that would qualify as "$100 big" projects, aside from something like the Sail Barge or Death Star.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 5, 2010, 11:41 AM
Kind of a silly question asking about a new Imperial Shuttle - come to think about it.  I consider that thing to be a done deal and they nailed it with the 80's mold IMO.  Sure they can tweak it, but I'm perfectly fine with the several I already own.

They can make the cockpit bigger ala the BMF. I, for one, would love an updated shuttle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 6, 2010, 12:19 AM
Good point.  A 4-person cockpit (more to the point a three person, one wookie cockpit) and it would be perfect.

If it isn't made....I won't lose any sleep though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Blaster under the pillow on May 6, 2010, 04:27 AM
Due to space considerations, I have to cycle through what I display on about a monthly basis, but the Falcon always remains out.

I was wondering whether they will actually release anything larger than the Falcon. Do you think we've reached  a sort of limit in terms of size, or do you think they could still go larger?

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on May 6, 2010, 08:43 AM
I am no master of scale and size - but wouldn't the sail barge be biggerthan the BMF?  That, and of course the Death Star    :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on May 6, 2010, 01:01 PM
I would think the Falcon about maxes out the size of anything they'll ever do... that thing is huge and could actually be the perfect size for some amazing playsets if they ever changed their stance on that subject.

Regarding a Sail Barge - I'm still game.  Since Jesse has backed out on that, I'll make up for it and buy two if they actually do it.   :-*
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 6, 2010, 02:55 PM
I really do hope to see a Sailbarge one day. I hope that STAN's rumor/intel is true that they worked up a mock up in CAD. To me it's one of the last two iconic ship I want to see made. Sailbarge and Tantive. I also would love a scale Skiff as well, the vintage mold is too small but I can live with it. I see a Star Destroyer and DS as playset/dios.

A am cool with a new Slave One but like others I am getting concerned about room. The shelves I have can only accommodate so much. If they start with a Jango style slave one then repaint if ESB style that is going to eat some space up. I have a lot I cannot display already including a second AT-TE. I was planning on 3-4 AT-AT's alone. I may have to cut it down to three. The Third one I would keep boxed as I want one of the TRU Vintage packaged one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on August 6, 2010, 12:44 PM
Well, I got a chance to open the new AT-AT over the past week or so, and I'd have to say that Hasbro is 4 for 4 on the "big vehicles" so far (although I don't have the Turbo Tank, those who do seem to really like it).  It got me to thinking about this again, what could Hasbro do next for the "large item" category - say for 2011 or beyond?  Sure, there are still things available like big Seperatist vehicles, but those seem really unlikely.  There's also the Twilight, but for some reason Hasbro doesn't seem real big on it either.  Then, there's always the Sail Barge as well - which Hasbro also says is pretty unlikely.  Is there any one "big item" that would have enough cross appeal for them to give it a try at this point?  I'd still like to see more OT vehicle re-dos (like the starfighters now), but I don't know that those are quite bit enough to warrant the $99.99 pricepoint.  I do think the Death Star would have some potential, as we know collectors would be into it and I even think kids could be as well.  But, we all know how "playsets" is sort of a cursed word these days - so maybe it wouldn't have much chance either.  I'm just wondering if there are still reasonable options out there for this area, it has been kind of neat having one big item each holiday for the Star Wars line.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 6, 2010, 01:29 PM
Good question, Brian.  I've been thinking about what I would like to see and the possibility of us actually getting it:

- Sith Infiltrator - Doubtful (it should be the size of the Queens Starship and Hasbro thinks we were lucky to get the POS we did)

- Death Star - Possibly...but playset is a bad word (like you mentioned)

- Imperial Shuttle - Maybe

- Sail Barge - If done it will be in 2013

- Twilight - You'd think they would've done it already...it depends on what role it has in the future of the CW series

I don't see a whole lot of larger vehicles they could do.  I'd like to see a Tantive IV and a Star Destryoyer (they could do them similar to the Lego Versions and I'd be happy), but I don't see them being done.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 6, 2010, 02:53 PM
For some reason Hasbro said recently "no" to the Twilight...  It seems to have fallen out of favor in the cartoon a lot.  Makes no sense why that is, and was never any explanation why it just up and disappeared, but I think without the toon for that one, it's toast.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 6, 2010, 04:21 PM
While I'm definitely hoping for a Sail Barge and Death Star playset (heck, a huge Bespin Freeze Chamber too!).

I'd also love to see a Republic Shuttle (the one Palpatine travels to Mustafar in) and also the Federation Landing ship from Episode One... how cool would it be for the front to open and an AAT Federation Tank slides out?  Ha Ha... yes, totally out of scale, but I'd love it.

(http://www.actionfleet.com/e/actionfleet/eE1AFTradeFederationLandingShip.jpg)

Kinda like that, only bigger... I know it will never happen, but I think it would be sweet.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 6, 2010, 05:27 PM
I can't see an AAT being made for the 3 3/4" line.

The republic shuttle from ROTS would be awesome though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on August 6, 2010, 09:20 PM
I can't see an AAT being made for the 3 3/4" line.

I think you mean the MTT (troop transport).  The AAT (tank) has been released several times since the first version from a decade back.

(http://www.rebelscum.com/episodeI/ep1vehTFtankloose.jpg)

Anyways, I was talking about the landing craft so an AAT could come out (an MTT coming out would make the landing craft way too big).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 7, 2010, 02:13 AM
Yeah...that's what I meant.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 7, 2010, 02:40 AM
- Sith Infiltrator - Doubtful (it should be the size of the Queens Starship and Hasbro thinks we were lucky to get the POS we did)

This has got to be the weirdest thing in the vehicle conversation.  Maul's one of the most popular characters in the prequel trilogy, and they put out a ridiculous ship for him.  I would think it would sell well... even if they didn't make it massive, something the size of a Y-Wing or what not, big enough to put the figure and speeder into.

Not enough screen time?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 7, 2010, 03:03 AM
Who knows what the brain-trust at Hasbro thinks sometimes, Rob.  Although the small infiltrator did sell pretty good.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Biffette on August 7, 2010, 07:21 PM
I'm almost certain the reason Hasbro balked at the Twilight was because of the association with the super-popular vampire movies.  Perhaps in a few years when the movies are all done and gone we'll get that vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on August 7, 2010, 08:25 PM
I'm almost certain the reason Hasbro balked at the Twilight was because of the association with the super-popular vampire movies.  Perhaps in a few years when the movies are all done and gone we'll get that vehicle.

That's actually more plausible to me than any of the other lame excuses they have given.

Here's hoping for a renewed presence in Season 3.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on August 7, 2010, 08:36 PM
I think if the $70 vehicle assortment had been more successful then we might have one day gotten a larger Sith Infiltrator and possibly even a Twilight.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on October 29, 2010, 10:02 PM
From the Q&A at 16bit.com (http://www.16bit.com/hasbroswqa-101029.asp):

QUESTION:  [snip]...does Hasbro have plans to reveal another big-ticket ($75+) exclusive and/or non-exclusive vehicle in 2011? [/snip]

ANSWER:  Yes, there will be one new ship next year, and it will be less than $99.99 - that we have been focused on. It will be Clone Wars related, and that's all we'll say until Toy Fair.

Thoughts/Guesses?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on October 30, 2010, 02:00 AM
Either a Clone Shuttle or Twilight...  I cannot fathom anything else unless it's something yet to be revealed in the series.  The weird deal with the Twilight is that it's been oddly written out of the series lately.  Kinda like they missed their golden chance with that one when it was brand new and in steady use in the show.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on October 30, 2010, 04:47 PM
It has to be some type of a shuttle.  IIRC they ditched the Twilight after season 1 so it doesn't really have much relevance anymore.  Kinda wished they would have kept that as their ride though.  That ship really grew on me.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on October 30, 2010, 05:08 PM
Either a Clone Shuttle or Twilight...  I cannot fathom anything else unless it's something yet to be revealed in the series.  The weird deal with the Twilight is that it's been oddly written out of the series lately.  Kinda like they missed their golden chance with that one when it was brand new and in steady use in the show.

It's okay, the Twilight sucked. I'm glad it wasn't made. I'm hoping this new ship is a clone shuttle, preferably the one with the flip-down ramp under the cockpit. While there are plenty of vehicles in TCW, it's hard to identify ships that fit with Hasbro's "requirements."
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Captain Piet on October 30, 2010, 06:41 PM
Republic Shuttle is a solid bet. I'd like a Twilight though as well.
Can we please have both?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on October 30, 2010, 09:09 PM
Either a Clone Shuttle or Twilight...  I cannot fathom anything else unless it's something yet to be revealed in the series.  The weird deal with the Twilight is that it's been oddly written out of the series lately.  Kinda like they missed their golden chance with that one when it was brand new and in steady use in the show.

I can't recall exactly which one it was, but I listened to a ForceCast somewhat recently where they had Dave Filoni on and they asked him about the Twilight.  I don't remember the exact wording, but he basically said that he/they weren't crazy about the design, and thought they could use something better from now on.  It made it sound like it wouldn't be back, at least anytime soon, but I could be wrong.  I do think a Clone shuttle is fairly likely, I can't think of much else we'd see in that larger scale from CW unless it is something we haven't already seen.  Honestly, I think I'd rather see one of the OT starfighters redone instead, but oh well :).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on October 30, 2010, 09:16 PM
I'm on record as a BIG proponent of the Twilight, but even I'm not holding my breath for it anymore. As time goes by it seems increasingly unlikely.

If you want clues, it's always helpful to survey the Lego offerings, and they do have a big-ass Separatist shuttle out there. B-o-r-i-n-g but a possibility.

Thing is, there are some really cool ships out there they could create that have actually figured into the series. I love that Republic ship with the rotating section around the canopy, like a B-Wing prototype almost.

Or even one of the heavy attack cruisers!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: speedermike on November 1, 2010, 04:36 PM
With the focus on clones, my guess is the attack shuttle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on November 2, 2010, 11:07 AM
Attack Shuttle is my guess too... and it's a welcome addition if it's indeed coming.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: jedi_master_sal on November 3, 2010, 01:51 PM
"NU" class attack Shuttle.


http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Nu-class_attack_shuttle

(http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080720002547/starwars/images/c/c0/Republicattackshuttle.jpg)

I REALLY want this one. It's one of the last few SW ships I really have any desire for.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on November 4, 2010, 10:36 AM
That shuttle would be a pretty good choice.  I always liked the design of that ship, and it could make for a cool toy.  Plus, I'm not sure what else could be done from CW that is very likely - at least that we've seen so far.  Sure, there are Seperatist ships, but those just don't seem too likely to get made.  One thought I had - and I'm sure it probably won't happen - is a possible re-do/upsizing of the Gunship.  I know it has been done, and repainted/re-released several times, but it is does fit the bill as far as being recognizable, used in CW a lot, and also clone-centric (which Hasbro/kids like).  Again, maybe not too likely, but I could see it happening at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on November 4, 2010, 11:14 AM
I'm not a fan of a larger Gunship design - kinda like the smaller R2.  I must have at least 10 various Gunships and I don't feel like ditching them and starting over again, but ya it could happen.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Greg on November 4, 2010, 02:47 PM
I'm not a fan of a larger Gunship design - kinda like the smaller R2.  I must have at least 10 various Gunships and I don't feel like ditching them and starting over again, but ya it could happen.

I share the same point of view. The current Gunship is fine (how big does it really have to be) and it could be sold for $70 as-is, as proven by the TRU exclusive. I'm really hoping for the NU Attack Shuttle at this point. The more I see it, the cooler it looks.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on November 4, 2010, 02:49 PM
I actually would probably buy a larger Gunship as anything larger is bound to actually be to-scale then.  I can't imagine them doing a new Gunship though, honestly.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on November 4, 2010, 03:45 PM
I'm pretty sure they alluded to another iteration of the Gunship coming from the Geonosis arc in a Q&A awhile back, but I'd be shocked if this was anything other than a repaint.

I'll take the Malevolence though.  ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on November 4, 2010, 05:39 PM
Wonder if they'd consider an AT-TE dropship?  Not that I really want one, but it could fit the bill in terms of the size...

(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080719010605/starwars/images/9/90/LAATc_TCW.jpg)

It could be cool, but if they were to invest that kind of tooling, I'd prefer something else actually.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on November 4, 2010, 07:30 PM
That's pretty massive!  I can't see them ever doing something like the especially since it's basically just a flying tow truck.  My AT-TE's are locked in storage, but are there any odd connector points on the vehicle or legs?  I know that Hasbro puts pegs on the back of Optimus Prime semi toys for some reason, but they seemed to have ditched the trailer idea.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on November 4, 2010, 08:11 PM
This would be exciting for me, and crazy cool.  I think the fact that it's more an accessory and not the complete toy presents some challenges (no chance it would come with an AT-TE).

I've always thought the MTT was a missed opportunity:

(http://img272.imageshack.us/img272/3858/mtt1tp.png)

Little chance for it either.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on November 5, 2010, 03:39 PM
It would make a great case.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on December 28, 2010, 09:07 AM
After seeing the new slate of Lego releases, which I find are often a great tip-off for items forthcoming in the 3.75" line, I have concluded that I really, really want next year's "BIG" item to be this:

7930  Bounty Hunter Assault Gunship US $49.99

Sorry, I can't link to a pic at work, but this thing is freaking sweet. And it actually has some personality; it's not just something straight off the Republic assembly line. They could pack in a couple of extra figs or maybe even a custom speeder bike and this thing is good to go.

I would be way more excited about this than any of the various shuttle options.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 26, 2012, 11:01 AM
On the subject of the "Big Ones"...

I bought 4 of the AT-TEs... two at full price... opened one, have one in the box still.  The other two, I ended up selling off one because I didn't have room.  Traded one for a Turbo Tank.  So I have two, which is enough.

Turbo Tank... I currently have 3 of that sucker...  bought one at full price, one on clearance, and have the other I traded for... my son plays with one of mine sometimes for his Cobra Troopers.  I might just give it to him.

AT-ATs... I have 3 of this behemoth... bought one at full price, one about half price at K-Mart, and another for just $12.48 at Target (http://www.yakfaceforums.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=129&t=5120&start=330)... probably the best deal I've ever gotten. 

Falcon... bought one at full price.  I wonder if they'll repack this at some point in Vintage packaging?  Sounds like a $200.00 exclusive for TRU at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2012, 01:41 PM
Yeah, I'm curious if we'll see any of the "big" ones re-released over the next several years with the 3D releases.  The AT-TE would be a good candidate with the "big" AOTC/ROTS offerings a little bit slimmer.  I could see the Falcon making another appearance before all is said and done too, and like CHEWIE mentioned, a vintage packaged exclusive sounds like something they would do (although if it was up to $200 now I wonder how many would buy it).  I could definitely see it coming out during one of the OT runs.  Although it doesn't technically qualify as one of the "big ones", I think that Slave I is going to get the ESB treatment sometime in the next few years too (maybe for ESB's release).  They could even make it a "big" vehicle for that year if they added in a few things (Boba Fett, Carbonite Han, etc.)

I do kind of like the idea that we have (at least) one big vehicle from each movie in the Saga.  So far, we'll have the MTT for Phantom Menace, the AT-TE for Attack of the Clones, the Turbo Tank for Sith, the Falcon for A New Hope, the AT-AT for Empire, and that leaves Jedi (Sail Barge?).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dan on January 26, 2012, 02:01 PM
I would love to see what a Hasbro BMF sailbarge would look like to wrap up the line (if I am still in it then), but they will probably bring back the shuttle- it is pretty ROTJ specific.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CloneF13Y35 on January 26, 2012, 02:32 PM
Like some others have said, I'd like to see them do a Tantive IV similar to the recent Attack Shuttle, where folded up it's a flying vehicle but unfold it as a playset. Build in the main hallway where the Imps break in and fight it out, have a place for R2 and 3P0 to wander around and get into a 'new' escape pod, have the place wherfe Leia recorded her message in R2 and was later captured, finally have a 'main hold' area where Vader can interrogate Capt. Antilles. Yeah, I'd get that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 26, 2012, 03:05 PM
Here's what I *think* makes sense for Hasbro to do to coincide with the other films coming to theaters again...


AOTC - This kind of stumps me... the AT-TE could be re-released, but I think a re-release would be better served in vintage packaging as a TRU exclusive, and they should focus on something new... perhaps a new Geonosis playset in the $100 range that blows the old one out of the water? 

ROTS - Tantive IV... it can sort of double as a playset, plus it would appeal to the OT folks... I'd also love to see a larger AT-AP.

ANH - Sandcrawer... as much as I don't really care about this one, I think they might do it and I'd buy it because it's cool, but it's not up there on my list like some other big items are.  Basically, I'd rather see a Death Star playset.  I think the Death Star would be more popular anyway.

ESB - I'd just love to see a new Freeze Chamber playset, and also the Slave I...

ROTJ - Sail Barge!  And maybe release the vintage Imperial Shuttle again as an exclusive somewhere like they did around 2005/2006 at Target, and pack it in vintage packaging.


I really think it could just be a matter of time before we see Hasbro explore the playset idea again... maybe wishful thinking, but I really never thought we'd see the MTT get made.  Does anything (including Hasbro) actually think the MTT is more in demand than a Death Star playset? 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Diddly on January 26, 2012, 04:58 PM
I wouldn't rule out a redo of the Republic Gunship... The old one was horribly underscaled, and now they want us to pay ~$70 for the same sculpt. I'd consider buying a bigger one that included the bubble turrets.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 26, 2012, 05:12 PM
Right on - that was slipping my mind.  I think that would probably be their approach for a big one next year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on January 26, 2012, 05:47 PM
I want to know when Retail is going to say "No" to more Big Ones...the last few really haven't been doorbusters
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 26, 2012, 06:00 PM
Maybe not in our eyes, but apparently they have to be selling well enough for them to keep making these things.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scott on January 26, 2012, 06:20 PM
Like Jesse said...almost every single one of them has been clearanced and the amount and severity of clearance keeps growing.

I'd imagine the CW repaint Slave I would be the ESB one.  I really don't see an underscaled Tantive ever being made...Sandcrawler seems like a good choice and I suppose the Sailbarge but that thing would be gigantic so that seems unlikely IMO
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on January 26, 2012, 07:01 PM
I think you'll see the re-release of the AT-TE for AOTC...possibly a retooled gunship as well.

For ROTS, I'd like to see Palpatine's shuttle.

ANH would most likely be a re-release of the Falcon.  Frankly, I'm surprised we haven't seen it in vintage packaging already.

Slave 1 would be a good one for the release of ESB, with a re-release of the AT-AT perhaps.  I'd like to see what they would do with a Star Destroyer, but anything they did would be horribly underscaled.

For ROTJ?  You guys who have been screaming for the Sail Barge might actually get your wish with the MTT being released this year.  I'd prefer a nicer Imp Shuttle, with a properly scaled cockpit.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on January 26, 2012, 07:55 PM
Yeah, the Gunship is where they would go with AOTC.  An upscaled one that would also some interaction with CW, which carries all sorts of auxillary stuff in it.

ROTS - ?

SW: Sandcrawler!!!

ESB: Slave 1

ROTJ: Sail Barge
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2012, 08:50 PM
Totally forgot about the Gunship....good choice there.  I could see them re-doing and upscaling the Gunship, and...as mentioned...with the crossover with CW it would be a really nice choice.  You can fill it full of clones, pack in some lights and sounds and lots of launchin' stuff.  That would be a nice vehicle.  I hope we do see that one.  All the other choices sound pretty good to me too.  I'd really like to see some sort of Death Star, even if it is underscaled and all that (because we know it will be).  Just having a nice, fun playset like that would be cool though - I always wanted the vinty one.

It does show that we've had a decent run of large vehicles though, because it is tougher to think of good choices here and there.  Honestly, a lot of it has been covered pretty well, which is nice.  I wouldn't mind seeing upscaling of some other previously made ships too (or instead, if there isn't a good "big" candidate), like the already mentioned Gunship, or an all-new X-Wing or Y-Wing for the OT.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 26, 2012, 11:53 PM
Maybe not in our eyes, but apparently they have to be selling well enough for them to keep making these things.

Exactly... and who knows, as long as they're not losing their pants on these bigger items, they might see it as a bonus to fill out the line - they can probably absorb it pretty easily and it seems right now that retailers are on board with one big item each year now in this line.   

I applaud Hasbro for taking risks like this, and it makes me respect them a lot more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 27, 2012, 03:00 AM
Looking at the possibilities for the future of big items to accompany the 3D releases, there are obviously a bunch of possibilities.  Here's what I'm thinking:

ATTACK OF THE CLONES
I think what people would think of as obvious here is a new Republic Gunship.  It's right in the midst of the action and the main characters are directly involved.  Plus the Gunship remains a very strong seller on the secondary market.  I think there's the potential here for Hasbro to cash in with an existing tool.  The same goes for the AT-TE.  It's an awesome Episode II vehicle.  Again, it's another existing tool.

But the new MTT makes me think that perhaps Hasbro is planning to go out with some memorable new items.  So what would be a new item that would wow collectors?  My out of the box prediction would be for the LAAT/c

(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080719010605/starwars/images/thumb/9/90/LAATc_TCW.jpg/603px-LAATc_TCW.jpg)

I could also see a possible reissue of Slave I in the AOTC deco.  I'd also be interested to see if Hasbro can retool the AOTC Jedi Starfighter with a functional droid socket.

As for anything beyond Episode II?  I think we have to wait and see how this TPM-3D line performs first.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on January 27, 2012, 09:39 AM
Technically, the AOTC Jedi fighter didn't have a full astromech droid in it.

One thing they could do is make it so you could swap a Build A Droid astromech head for the one included with the fighter. That would allow for some customization.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 27, 2012, 10:58 AM
Here's an extremely unlikely possibility, but I'd go bonkers for a Trade Federation Core Ship...

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/4/40/Trade_Federation_Core_Ship.jpg)

Or a Techno Union Warship...

(http://images.wikia.com/starwars/images/6/6d/Hardcell-class.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt R. on January 27, 2012, 11:04 AM
AOTC - Ultimate Gunship (converts from standard ship to AT-TE carrier [removable troop carrier part])

ROTS - ?

ANH -  Jawa Sandcrawler

ESB - Slave 1 or Rebel Transport

ROTJ - Jabba's Sail Barge
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on January 27, 2012, 01:06 PM
ROTS could be the troop transport walker on Felucia or whatever that Republic thing was on Mygeeto.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on January 27, 2012, 01:28 PM
I just kinda wish that Hasbro horse thing (buttercup?) that came out a few years back came out back in 00-01 instead.  Wasn't it that thing that changed Hasbro's mind on larger items at retail?  Imagine all the cool big ass stuff we'd have by now. 

Better late then never though.  :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on January 27, 2012, 01:49 PM
ESB - Rebel Transport

Ooooh.  Gimme Gimme Gimme.  That was one of my favorite ships as a kid.  Imagine a bigger version with various interior rooms/stations.  Maybe a gunner chair and an escape pod?  Awesome.  And it seats 30 figures?  Then I would have to buy more figures.  Hasbro, are you listening???
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on January 27, 2012, 02:27 PM
Like Jesse said...almost every single one of them has been clearanced and the amount and severity of clearance keeps growing.

Anybody ever talk to Hasbro about the Attack Gunship?  I wonder what happened to a lot of these that were at retail. 

I know Amazon really clearanced them out, but it seems like all of Target's stock was pulled back (by Hasbro?).  I don't recall these even hitting 30% off before being removed from the shelves.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dan on January 27, 2012, 02:44 PM
I saw them at Targets for 30% off, but then they all vanished. Now they are back at every Target I have been, at full price!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on January 27, 2012, 03:14 PM
Hopefully they have someone thinking through the pricing on these things.  Like Dan, I've seen them back at the full $80 price @ Target, but I nabbed mine from Amazon with no tax/free shipping for $30.  There has to be some kind of happy medium there.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Siths Herald on January 29, 2012, 08:05 PM
Like Jesse said...almost every single one of them has been clearanced and the amount and severity of clearance keeps growing.

Anybody ever talk to Hasbro about the Attack Gunship?  I wonder what happened to a lot of these that were at retail. 

I know Amazon really clearanced them out, but it seems like all of Target's stock was pulled back (by Hasbro?).  I don't recall these even hitting 30% off before being removed from the shelves.

Most of the stores on the west side of Minneapolis still have a few of them... at $80.  Not worth it to me.  I got mine on Amazon and am very happy with what I got for their price.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on January 30, 2012, 01:40 AM
Hasbro was, at one point, a little more liberal in saying what did ok and what didn't, and as I recall in 2008 the Falcon and AT-TE both did well...  The CW was at its height, it sort of makes sense.  Then 2009 rolled around and the Turbo Tank came out, and I seem to recall Hasbro saying it didn't do as well as hoped and the whole, "We'll see if we do a big ship at Toy Fair for next year", schtick...  Then the AT-AT was like they were trying to make a statement...  Then this year things were scaled back to a lower price point and that seemed to be a point they were trying to make...  Maybe the AT-AT was only so-so...

Now the shuttle.  Yeah I saw them clearance at WM and sell ok.  My Target never put them on clearance at all so they've always been the full price here, and I'd say they sold so poorly on Amazon.com, even clearanced, that they really just said to hell with it and unloaded it.

That brings us to now...  I think if TPM3D's toy line falters before summer is up, and that the MTT ***** the proverbial bed, then I think we'll maybe see a scaled down AOTC3D's release.  I could see a "Big" Gunship, as it wouldn't take a lot to make that ship more special by upsizing it a little to make it to-scale...  I could likewise see Hasbro's team say, "Well it sells great on the secondary market now, so why mess with perfection?" and just crank out more of the old mold at a higher price.

I'll say it now though, I have a bit of faith that a new Gunship mold will be done.  ;)

I think a lot is riding on the TPM3D's toy line's performance this Summer though.

I think a lot of the ideas collectors wish for aren't too likely in toy form these days, but you never know too.  A year ago I'd probably have not believed they'd make an MTT, and now they are.  To me it is a mistake...  Ride the Maul bone and make a bigger Infiltrator since you know Maul is your cash cow with this film.  Not much else is, but Maul will make you money.  Like Vader's TIE sells, now was the chance to make an Infiltrator that kids would've had to have had this holiday.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 30, 2012, 02:23 PM
Like many, Maul is one of my favorite parts of TPM, so I've been thinking about picking up the Sith Infiltrator now that it is being re-released (or get the previous version cheaper).  I was looking through some pics online of it (I passed on it last time), and although it might be a good toy, it really is ridiculously sized.  I can see why they went the route of the MTT (and it is a never before done vehicle as well), but I wouldn't have minded seeing a re-done and upscaled Sith Infiltrator.  Anyways, I'm not upset with the choice, I think the MTT is cool too, but it will be interesting to see how it does.

It is interesting/scary how much may be riding on this TPM 3D lineup of stuff.  Banking so much on a movie whose previous toyline and promotions really hurt some companies last time around is sort of risky.  I'm still not entirely convinced how much kids are going to buy into this stuff, and if so, the movie will likely be out of theaters in a few weeks and forgotten by May (particularly since it isn't a "new" movie).  Add to that the quality of the largely pushed "Movie Heroes" line, and it may spell trouble.  It will be interesting to see how the year shakes out and things shape up going into AOTC 3D next year.  Some of our stores (WM in particular) had stuff out early, and while the vintage seems to have sold out for the most part, I don't know that Movie Heroes has even been touched yet.  I hope the movie does well and everything, but we'll see how the toy line does as well.  I bet Hasbro sort of wishes Lucasfilm had started with A New Hope ;).  Understandable why they went this way with the numerical order and everything, but it may have been a little safer bet.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on January 30, 2012, 03:22 PM
From what I've seen, Hasbro isn't overdoing the TPM merchandise though... we might see more new stuff with Toy Fair, but I am not expecting to see much more TPM stuff.

Vintage - We get a wave of TPM figures in the TVC line... okay, nothing wrong with that.  We are way overdue for new TPM figures, and they've been selling like crazy at Wal-Mart, the TRU stores that put them out are selling fast with their Buy 2 Get 1 Sale, and I assume they'll do okay at Target.  And if anything, this is a much stronger "Wave 1" than the ESB wave that launched the new vintage line - we get a lot more "new" stuff in this initial wave.

Movie Heroes - This is going to suffer from the bad quality of figures... the first wave only has three "TPM Specific" figures... but again, the quality of most of the figures is the problem.  Wave 2 looks a bit better, and does focus on TPM, but there's some "new" stuff here so I don't think it's that big of a disaster - however those should have been in Wave 1.

Clone Wars - Well, this is Clone Wars.  Doesn't look like this is a focus for Hasbro this year, at least not in terms of making "new" figures, looks like they think they need to focus that on vintage, which in the long run is probably a smart decision.

The weakest link, I think is the Wave 1 vehicles... those podracers could spell bad news for that line... the Wave 1 deluxes are an absolute joke too... what's new about them?  Nothing.  And I think the MTT is a great idea, and better than Maul's ship because Maul's ship never does anything in TPM except land in the desert.  It's a cool design, but at least the MTT saw action in the film, and has cross over appeal for the rest of the prequels and the Clone Wars - plus some people will army build it for dioramas.  I can't see that happening with a $100 Sith Infiltrator, which would probably be better served as a $50-$60 toy.

Anyways, I think any downfalls we see with Star Wars from what we've seen revealed so far has more to do with repacking older figures at higher prices than special attention being given to TPM... the devotion to that film actually isn't overwhelming. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on January 30, 2012, 05:57 PM
That's true, I guess I'm thinking of it as a "TPM" push, but it is more the "Movie Heroes" push that is more accurate I guess.  I don't think there is any problem with the all TPM Vintage Collection wave either, and it is a very strong wave overall.  Plus, like you mentioned, we haven't gotten much from this movie in a long time.  I'm sort of guessing to that aside from those "Discover the Force" re-releases later this fall (Aurra Sing, etc.), we won't see any other TPM in the Vintage line this year.

The main culprit is the Movie Heroes, and the combination of repacking pretty old stuff for higher prices.  A lot of that stuff could sit, so it will be interesting to see what happens there.  If it isn't shipped like crazy, it should be fine....we'll see.  The only place I had seen stuff early really so far here was WM, and I haven't gone shopping since the "release date" of today, but I don't think anything had sold so far from that line locally.  The Vintage stuff flew off the pegs though, it seems.  The problem with Movie Heroes too is that so much of it (but not quite all) has been offered so much lately, so even a lot of kids already have it.  I guess it all depends how much TPM captures (or re-captures) kids imaginations, or how much of the first wave will have to get off the pegs before we see more.  I'll be interested to see at Toy Fair what the future waves for that line will be made up of, if it will still have a TPM focus or if it will cover the whole Saga (which I think it is supposed to).  If we get the entire Saga's characters included, if they put stuff in there like the crazy action featurey Lukes and Hans that we got in the Blue/Gold Saga line, etc., that could spell trouble too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: darth broem 2 on January 30, 2012, 07:47 PM
1
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 16, 2012, 09:08 PM
One thing I noticed from some of the info wrap ups from SDCC is that Hasbro said there won't be a "big" vehicle for 2013 - and the future of that line depends on how the MTT does.  I was a little surprised that we wouldn't at least see a re-release of the TRU Slave I or something, but maybe they mean just no "new" big vehicles or something.  If it is up to the MTT's success to see if we get any other big vehicles in the future, I'm not sure when we'll see something new.  It at least seems like things like the Sail Barge and/or Death Star are on their radar though.  I could see some sort of DS release, about the time ANH 3D hits theaters.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 16, 2012, 09:55 PM
Since Slave-1 is a repaint, I don't think they'd consider it a "new" vehicle. They didn't seem to lump the new AT-AT into the "no new big vehicles" statement, as it's just a repaint.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 17, 2012, 02:07 AM
Agreed, plus it's not that huge actually, but I take that (and it's kind of loose so it could go either direction) to mean no NEW BMF, but in our interview they did just say no biggie item next year...  Leaves it sort of open.

I think ESB Slave-I will happen at some point.  The thing was tooled with that in mind even.  It'll happen.  Just don't count on a new biggie next year.  Maybe the year after but I'm not so sure how that MTT is gonna do.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 17, 2012, 08:07 AM
I'll be surprised if AOTC 3D is released and there's not a Republic gunship reissue at least.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on July 17, 2012, 08:36 AM
I'd say it will be released.  It won't be regarded as the tentpole that they hoped TPM was, but Hasbro was coy enough about it to make me think that LFL will be announcing AotC3D at C6.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 17, 2012, 09:20 AM
That makes complete sense.

I can't wait two years from now when they get to the OT. I'll be curious to see if there's a bigger jump in ticket sales.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Phrubruh on July 17, 2012, 09:24 AM
Hopefully they do a better job at the 3D conversion then they did for TPM. 95% of the TPM was not in 3D.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 17, 2012, 09:57 AM
I'll be surprised if AOTC 3D is released and there's not a Republic gunship reissue at least.

Yeah - AotC 3D would be the perfect reason to re-release the Gunship AND the AT-TE if they really felt they needed a BIG vehicle out there.  No need to waste the tooling dollars on somehting new, better to re-issue those two and build up a BMF cash base to tool up something new from the OT.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 17, 2012, 10:25 AM
Hopefully they do a better job at the 3D conversion then they did for TPM. 95% of the TPM was not in 3D.

I'm very dubious about 3D conversion technology. If it ain't shot in 3D, it shouldn't be shown in 3D. However, I was very impressed with the 3D Lawrence of Arabia footage in Prometheus, so I'm holding out hope that it's getting better all the time, especially by ANH.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Diddly on July 17, 2012, 01:34 PM
I skipped the AT-TE in favor of the Falcon back in 08, so I definitely would buy a rerelease. I'm happy with my lone Gunship, the "shark" one from the 2D Clone Wars cartoon. That one was like $50 back in 2006, I shudder to think of how much a repaint would cost now. Didn't they rerelease one a few years back and charge like $75?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 17, 2012, 02:09 PM
The only AOTC BMF I'd want (other than a dirty/damaged AT-TE) would be a NEW Republic Gunship.  There were "rumors" (guesses?) that was happening IIRC...  tough to recall who threw what at a dartboard anymore.

I've hoped for a while they'd redo it though as I do love the Gunship design, but I really wanted a to-scale one, even moreso since they made those big turrets and they look so comically bad on the smaller-scale Gunship.

I think people assumed because it had been reissued so much, they surely would resculpt it (as they often like to do).  I just was hopeful that would happen, but seems to be out the window unless it was a smokescreen at SDCC.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on July 17, 2012, 06:19 PM
I believe Hasbro's last reference to the Gunship was in a Q&A where they sounded pretty optimistic about getting another one out, although at the time I think the speculation was that it would be a TCW item with Geonosian deco. No doubt they will have backed off that now, but I can see it coming in the vintage line at some point, sure.

I don't think they've ever really lost money on those things, they all seem to hold value pretty well in the secondary market too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 17, 2012, 08:59 PM
I agree with Jesse, the only "new" BMF item from AOTC that I'd really like to see would be a larger Gunship as well, but at the same time I could see them just re-releasing the AT-TE, the Slave I, or the original Gunship (which itself is a pretty nice toy, even if underscaled).  Like Jeff said, I'd rather they save the tooling bucks for a big OT item in the future.  I've even seen a few rumors that next year may see the release of both AOTC 3D (in Feb) and ROTS 3D (in the Fall), so maybe we'll see a bit of a duo focus for the line next year if that comes to pass.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 18, 2012, 09:13 AM
Padme's yacht! With pop out spring action cannons and launchable swoop bike!

The thing I like least about the old gunship is that dropping troop platform. I only have a the used space doors version...without a canopy (parts like that rarely come up on ebay). Besides the doors, they added some flip out missile pods to the top cannons, but still kept that detaching floor.  :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 18, 2012, 10:32 AM
Yeah, the detachable floor is pretty pointless. The vehicle is already—by design—made to be very easy to get out of. What would be the use of a floor that drops out? Is there a rancor beneath it?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 18, 2012, 01:33 PM
From a realistic standpoint or a toy standpoint? :)  I can bull**** the former for you all day Lando.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on July 18, 2012, 01:43 PM
A new Gunship, a little larger and with the turrets could be a cool item for next year.  Or just the old mold, with a great paint scheme with the turrets would be fine for my interests.

For next year's big items, I think this would suit the bill well enough:

AT-TE - repack, with sturdy legs, new/realistic weathering, AT-TE Gunner
Gunship - repack, with two turrets, Clone Pilot
Slave One - repaint w/ ESB paint scheme, with carbonite block, Boba Fett and Han Solo

Then I suppose we could see the Turbo Tank repackaged for ROTS... but I still want to see a Sail Barge and Death Star playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 18, 2012, 03:10 PM
From a realistic standpoint or a toy standpoint? :)  I can bull**** the former for you all day Lando.

Of course!  ;)

Well, I can think of a few cons for the realistic standpoint...

1. Structural weakness
2. Impractical...There are doors a few feet away
3. Once it's down, how is it reattached?

I can understand bottom-opening doors, but the floor falling out as a solid piece seems like a bad move.
 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 18, 2012, 03:36 PM
My major complaint was that as a toy, you have to be careful not to put your hand under that part of the vehicle, because you might pop the floor loose.

I also detest that control handle on the new AT-AT because sometimes it pop loose without much effort.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on July 18, 2012, 03:59 PM
From a realistic standpoint or a toy standpoint? :)  I can bull**** the former for you all day Lando.

Of course!  ;)

Well, I can think of a few cons for the realistic standpoint...

1. Structural weakness
2. Impractical...There are doors a few feet away
3. Once it's down, how is it reattached?

I can understand bottom-opening doors, but the floor falling out as a solid piece seems like a bad move.

I can come up with half a dozen reasons why you'd have a floor exit just on the fly.  Might make for easier cargo or vehicle loading, especially if the platform has repulsors.  Maybe grappling lines are safer or more efficient running striaght out from the bottom.  If you're carrying speeders, you could unload those in motion with a floor release, rather than having to stop and let it out the side.  Maybe it's an emergency release  - why do school busses have a back door if no one uses it? I think you'd need a better coupling, but maybe you can use these for space docking, possibly even between two gunships bottom to bottom.  Maybe there is added machinery/grapplers that come out of the bottom to haul large containers or other vehicles.  Is it safer for the clones to jump out the bottom than the sides if they are sky/space jumping?  Clearly opening doors would make more sense if it is a frequently used entrance/exit, but that's less critical if it is an emergency door. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 18, 2012, 04:15 PM
The main purpose I could see for a "pop out floor" from the rear is rapid deployment of cargo in the back...  the Gunship would be more than a troop transport I think.  Versatility woudl be very important...  Specializing the vehicle would limit its usefulness.  This could be said for many SW vehicle designs...  AT-AT's might have a variety of "fits" for their belly holds for instance, for carrying more than just soldiers into war.

It's the same argument that could made for the AT-AT having multiple means of deploying what is in its belly...  A zip-line-only method of deploying soldiers limits that vehicle's abilities on the field, but I digress.

With the Gunship, I would see the ability to drop the entire floor out of the back as sort of a rapid deployment of equipment, more than men...  A gunship hits the ground, or even just comes in low and drops the floor...  Perhaps it's designed to slide a bit and the ship wouldn't even have to stop.  Tied to it are cargo containers of medical supplies, munitions, food, etc.

Sort of akin to rapid deployment of cargo out the back of airplanes today...  fly in low, and shove it out the back with small chutes to slow it down as it slides across the ground.  There's everything from tanks to bundled cargo could be delivered that way.

I think that's the most plausible reason though...  speed.  It makes an interesting play feature on the toy though...  That was one vehicle I think Hasbro got pretty right from top to bottom, as toys go.  My only beef has always been its size...  I'd like a new, larger one, for that reason.  Including a lot of the same features would be cool too, like the deploying side doors, and the ability to lock the to-scale gun turrets on the sides.  I'd dig both. 

Having atmosphere and non-atmosphere doors would be a nice plus too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 18, 2012, 04:25 PM
Oh yeah, it is an awesome toy...I can pretty much overlook the scale issue just based on how cool it is.

I'm not debating the opening in the floor (and it's probably not best to discuss the practicality of how the toy's floor operates), I just think it would make more sense to have an opening hatch, rather than basically losing the floor altogether. Something similar to the torpedo hatch doors on the ARC fighter make more sense to me.

I think speeder bike deployment is supposed to happen via a hatch in the back. At least according to the cross sections book. If they give us a larger version of the gunship, I would love to have that feature.

****, now I want a new gunship...thanks alot guys!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 18, 2012, 06:16 PM

I think speeder bike deployment is supposed to happen via a hatch in the back. At least according to the cross sections book. If they give us a larger version of the gunship, I would love to have that feature.


That feature of the Gunships was shown in the Umbara trilogy.  The Gunships deployed AT-RT's from that rear ramp as they were landing their troops.  I didn't recall seeing speeder bikes deployed that way, but it would definitely make for a cool play feature.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 18, 2012, 06:43 PM
Here's the cross sections pages (http://img.phombo.com/img1/photocombo/72/Ep2-014.jpg). You can see the speederbike deployment on the second gunship. I'd love to see something similar to the speederbike deployment on the BAT-AT.

Edit: I forgot to add the link. Fixed.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 18, 2012, 06:49 PM
I'll be surprised if AOTC 3D is released and there's not a Republic gunship reissue at least.

I think we are more likely to see a re-release of the AT-TE.  That was very popular.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: iFett on July 18, 2012, 08:02 PM
IF AOTC gets any push next year I can fully see the AT-TE again at retail once more...at a much higher price though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: darth broem 2 on July 18, 2012, 10:39 PM
I'm hoping for a Gunship myself.  I'm sure it will be $75 this time around though. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 19, 2012, 12:48 PM
I missed the Turbo Tank.  That's the one I want re-released.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on February 9, 2013, 06:05 PM
I've seen a few tweets suggesting that the postponement of the 3D films means any chances we had of "big" stuff to go with them is gone too...

Also saw a few tweets that indicated that Hasbro pretty specifically said retail can't handle a $200 Sail Barge (re: #bringonethebarge petition).  :(
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jayson on February 9, 2013, 06:14 PM
Tell that to TRU with their $250-$280 Vintage BMF  :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on February 9, 2013, 06:20 PM
Maybe general retail can't, but how about exclusives?  As Jay mentioned, the Falcon is TRU...and now that Amazon is in the game, who knows?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 9, 2013, 07:51 PM
I think with teh Falcon you already had it tooled you're just trying to capitalize on the nostalgia...  Exclusives usually mean lower production runs.  I just don't see it for new stuff if it's big.  Small new stuff seems to do well, especially if they can repackage and repurpose it.  I think the Speederbike, for instance, will be back at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Captain Piet on February 9, 2013, 08:40 PM
I've seen a few tweets suggesting that the postponement of the 3D films means any chances we had of "big" stuff to go with them is gone too...

Also saw a few tweets that indicated that Hasbro pretty specifically said retail can't handle a $200 Sail Barge (re: #bringonethebarge petition).  :(

So make it online pre-order re: Mattel's Castle Grayskull.
I swear, Hasbro just does not seem to want to put an effort in at all.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 9, 2013, 08:44 PM
I've seen a few tweets suggesting that the postponement of the 3D films means any chances we had of "big" stuff to go with them is gone too...

Also saw a few tweets that indicated that Hasbro pretty specifically said retail can't handle a $200 Sail Barge (re: #bringonethebarge petition).  :(

You look at today's presentation and it's VERY CLEAR.  We need to look at 2013 as a year to essentially reset the line and Star Wars as a whole.  Until Episode VII gets into production and the Disney hype machine can get things rolling, I think we're looking at a pretty bleak year.  Meaning no large vehicles.  Especially when you don't have media to support the release of that large vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on February 9, 2013, 09:52 PM
You look at today's presentation and it's VERY CLEAR.  We need to look at 2013 as a year to essentially reset the line and Star Wars as a whole.  Until Episode VII gets into production and the Disney hype machine can get things rolling, I think we're looking at a pretty bleak year.  Meaning no large vehicles.  Especially when you don't have media to support the release of that large vehicle.

That's exactly what Hasbro was saying.  Without the movies, there was no media support for the movies.  And now with the movies coming out soon, they are gearing things up for that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 9, 2013, 09:57 PM
I've been told that's an edict that's going beyond just Hasbro, and coming from Disney/LFL...  Every licensee is pretty much being refocused from previous plans to put efforts into the new films.

Seems everything but the new films is sort of in a limbo state, including Clone Wars, 3D movies, etc.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Captain Piet on February 10, 2013, 11:13 AM
And that's all well and good except for the fact we have a fifth and sixth season of a Clone Wars TV show.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 10, 2013, 11:32 AM
That's all well and good, but where does a Sail Barge figure prominently into Clone Wars seasons 5 or 6?

This isn't about busting chops or hating on people who want big vehicles.  I'd love a Sail Barge.

This is about the fact that right now the market won't support it, and Hasbro doesn't have high enough confidence in the Star Wars brand to invest in the design, tooling, product safety testing and eventual marketing of a big vehicle.  With a company the size of Hasbro this isn't a casual undertaking.  A piece like this is a centerpiece that you build a line around.  And engineering a vehicle line this is more complicated than pressing a big Castle Greyskull.  The two items really are not that comparable.

And then you look at other things in the line:

BLACK SERIES 3.75" FIGURES - Only 19 being offered in 2013
CLONE WARS ANIMATED 3.75" FIGURES - DISCONTINUED
SAGA LEGENDS - Basic figures reduced to 5 POA, price point deliberately lowered to draw in higher volume sales
STARFIGHTER VEHICLES - Stripped down to smaller / simpler sculpts to meet a reduced price point

The only big chance Hasbro seems to be taking is on the BLACK SERIES 6" figures.  And that seems to be tied in to a scale that has been more attractive to general toy collecting.

The line simply does not seem healthy enough to support a $150 - $200 vehicle.  Perhaps in 2015 or beyond, following the Episode VII release we'll be in a position where Hasbro can take a chance on something like the Sail Barge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 10, 2013, 11:45 AM
Yeah, with the 3D releases postponed (cancelled?), I think it might be some slim years until Episode VII hits, whether that will end up being 2015 or later.  Like mentioned, our chances of big vehicles might be put on hold until then.  Too bad though, I really thought we'd have a shot at a Death Star of some sort when ANH 3D hit theaters.  Now, who knows.  Unless we see Death Star Three in the new movies ;).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Captain Piet on February 10, 2013, 12:31 PM
That's all well and good, but where does a Sail Barge figure prominently into Clone Wars seasons 5 or 6?

This isn't about busting chops or hating on people who want big vehicles.  I'd love a Sail Barge.

This is about the fact that right now the market won't support it, and Hasbro doesn't have high enough confidence in the Star Wars brand to invest in the design, tooling, product safety testing and eventual marketing of a big vehicle.  With a company the size of Hasbro this isn't a casual undertaking.  A piece like this is a centerpiece that you build a line around.  And engineering a vehicle line this is more complicated than pressing a big Castle Greyskull.  The two items really are not that comparable.

And then you look at other things in the line:

BLACK SERIES 3.75" FIGURES - Only 19 being offered in 2013
CLONE WARS ANIMATED 3.75" FIGURES - DISCONTINUED
SAGA LEGENDS - Basic figures reduced to 5 POA, price point deliberately lowered to draw in higher volume sales
STARFIGHTER VEHICLES - Stripped down to smaller / simpler sculpts to meet a reduced price point

The only big chance Hasbro seems to be taking is on the BLACK SERIES 6" figures.  And that seems to be tied in to a scale that has been more attractive to general toy collecting.

The line simply does not seem healthy enough to support a $150 - $200 vehicle.  Perhaps in 2015 or beyond, following the Episode VII release we'll be in a position where Hasbro can take a chance on something like the Sail Barge.

I wasn't referring to the sail barge, but the media support. There is current media in the Clone Wars and Hasbro doesn't support it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on February 10, 2013, 06:34 PM
Big items of the future may be in doubt, but there will be Biggs Items of the Future.  ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 10, 2013, 09:13 PM
I got together with the folks from SWAN today.  And their impressions from Toy Fair were very similar to my own.  They had some additional notes.  Most noteworthy is that word has come down from Hasbro corporate to ALL the licensed groups:  CUT COSTS & REDUCE YOUR NUMBER OF SKU'S.  With that kind of corporate edict you can completely understand the current state of the Star Wars license and why they will not offer a new large vehicle in 2013.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 18, 2018, 09:28 PM
Well not a lot of updates to this for a long time, and not Playset specific, but I thought I'd post in here an article I did with a review.

https://www.jedidefender.com/index.php?id=2651

(https://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NovaUbiquitousDisplay2018/001_tn.jpg)

The review was from a sample we were sent by Nova, for their Ubiquitous Display system.

It's sort of like the GTP Space Walls, but different.  I'd say the name explains it all fairly well, but they are a more customizable system.  A bit more versatile way to make scifi/industrial/military looking backgrounds for your action figures.  They're scale-neutral.  They're interesting and while the concept isn't new, I would say it's not been this polished.

The sets are entirely injection molded plastic, no resin or 3D prints, and in general just the kind of thing I think collectors might enjoy having as a display option.

Check out my review please, and feel free to chat up the topic here till we maybe make a thread otherwise for it.

PS: I took pictures with 6" figures for reference only.  I don't really collect them but I wanted to show they're quite at home in this system even though I obviously focus on 3.75" figures throughout it.

Any questions or concerns about my photography skills can be addressed by donating to the "Buy Jesse a nice camera fund". :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on February 18, 2018, 09:48 PM
Great review, you  just convinced me that I need at least 1-2 sets.  Which, I really can't afford right now due to the Sail Barge.  I'll guess find a way.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 19, 2018, 06:53 AM
Well not a lot of updates to this for a long time, and not Playset specific, but I thought I'd post in here an article I did with a review.

https://www.jedidefender.com/index.php?id=2651

(https://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NovaUbiquitousDisplay2018/001_tn.jpg)

The review was from a sample we were sent by Nova, for their Ubiquitous Display system.

It's sort of like the GTP Space Walls, but different.  I'd say the name explains it all fairly well, but they are a more customizable system.  A bit more versatile way to make scifi/industrial/military looking backgrounds for your action figures.  They're scale-neutral.  They're interesting and while the concept isn't new, I would say it's not been this polished.

The sets are entirely injection molded plastic, no resin or 3D prints, and in general just the kind of thing I think collectors might enjoy having as a display option.

Check out my review please, and feel free to chat up the topic here till we maybe make a thread otherwise for it.


Cool stuff!  I had seen some similar Japanese starship interior pieces (on the HLJ site, IIRC), but never thought about the potential for crossing that stuff over to Star Wars.  Probably because the walls didn't have that telltale Imperial interior look to them.

But seeing this in the context of your review?  These spaces could pass for a more unaffiliated starship interior.  A diorama of Han Solo's  freighter in TFA, the Eravana, might be well served with pieces like this.


Beyond that?  It's interesting to see the comments in this thread from 5 years ago, my own included.  ESPECIALLY about the Sail Barge!  I would jump at the chance to get a $200 Sail Barge like someone mentioned, compared with the $500 we're faced with now.  Who knew crowd funding could be such a force?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 19, 2018, 12:04 PM
A Jesse James review.  My day is now a better day!   ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 19, 2018, 12:19 PM
Thanks for the review Jesse! I might have to pick up one of the sets for my Alien display.

I noticed is has a USB connector for the LED lighting. I've been looking at a few options for running LED lights in my displays, but I'm trying to find something modular and battery powered. Are there battery packs that the USBs can plug into?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 19, 2018, 02:35 PM
Thanks for the review Jesse! I might have to pick up one of the sets for my Alien display.

I noticed is has a USB connector for the LED lighting. I've been looking at a few options for running LED lights in my displays, but I'm trying to find something modular and battery powered. Are there battery packs that the USBs can plug into?

a lot of 501st guys have battery powered fans in their helmets.  Look around whitearmor.net and you may find something that will work for you.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 19, 2018, 09:33 PM
A Jesse James review.  My day is now a better day!   ;D

Hah, thanks man.  I know I don't do much like this, but I'm also not sent a review sample too often either, haha.  When I saw the Ubiquitous I went and asked them about it directly and we got to talking about the concept and everything.  They're a cool company, think outside the box I feel. 

Thanks guys for the positive remarks, I appreciate that.  Obviously I'm not a skilled photographer like Jayson is, and this was my first light box set up and everything.  I'm trying to improve that angle of anything I do wind up reviewing though.  I'd like to maybe do some reviews of some of these smaller toy lines like Vitruvian HACKS and such for our readers because that stuff is different, but high quality.

With a return to TVC I wouldn't mind reviewing cool figures again when I have time, but time is something we all wish we had more of it seems. 

On the lighting, Lando, these are all self-contained I THINK.  I cannot say that definitively because the company sent me the non-lighted kit, however it is done with micro-USB cables that I believe connect to a "battery box panel", essentially.  A single panel has the Nova name embossed on it (this is in the instruction manual which is very generic and for all the different sets they make).  This panel has a box screwed into the back with 4 micro USB ports it appears, and the instructions explain how to route their micro USB cables between the interior and exterior panels. 

You then just plug the other end into each light unit's port for the cables.  I'm assuming when you get the lighted kit then, there is some pre-wired LED panel in there since all these "cases" that hold them in are screwed into the back of even the non-lighted system.  I took one apart (they're screwed in) and it just is missing the wired LED panel from inside.

The "Nova" embossed panel and any of the micro USB cables are the only things my set didn't come with.  And of course none of the wired innards of the light panels are there when you take them apart.

You can light the non-lighted system if you know how to wire LEDs, which I do and it's not too horrible, but their system seems very compact and perfect for their design, obviously.  I've never done wiring with micro-USB cables, rather just a battery box and LEDs to it haha.

If you're hell bent on a lighted set up I really recommend their kit.  It seems to run about $100.  It also is remote controllable, and you can change the LED colors with the flip of a button.  Red, purple, green, white...  a rainbow of colors and things.  Pretty slick stuff really.  I'm glad you guys liked it and thanks for the kind words again.  I appreciate that. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 20, 2018, 01:20 PM
In light of the Sail Barge, what's the next big item you'd like to see?

High on my list is a properly scaled Imperial Shuttle.

U-Wing is high up there as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 20, 2018, 01:48 PM
Give me a bigger Sandcrawler.

I'd love an expansive Cloud City or Death Star play set.  If this format allowed for a re-release of the big Falcon I'd be all for it.  I'd also be down for a modern take on the Ewok Village.

As for non-OT... maybe a larger version of Maul's Sith Infiltrator?  I don't really care too much about non-OT vehicles though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on February 20, 2018, 02:17 PM
The Ghost for sure, since we already have the Phantom they could scale it to fit around. Plenty of great interior playset potential too, with the living quarters, cockpit, and various common areas.

The Twilight would be second on my list for sure, though I realize that would have limited appeal.

Also from Clone Wars the Jedi T-6 Shuttle for sure, and the Mandalorian fighters.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on February 20, 2018, 02:24 PM
As a playset guy, I'd love to see them make Death Star and Cloud City playsets. My ideal would be 3 3/4"-scale versions of the Micro Collection Death Star World and Bespin World. (I think choosing those old sets as the blueprint for new playsets would solve the "that's not the way I want it to look!" sentiments.) Bonus points for including the "Emperor's Throne Room" and "Bespin Cell" that were never produced...someday they could even finish out the series with a Hoth World too even though I'm not as excited to see that.

After those I'd jump up and down to see an "Imperial Outpost" playset based on the old 1985 concept.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on February 20, 2018, 02:47 PM
Give me a bigger Sandcrawler.

I'd love an expansive Cloud City or Death Star play set.  If this format allowed for a re-release of the big Falcon I'd be all for it.  I'd also be down for a modern take on the Ewok Village.

I'm more in line with Rob and Muftak.  To me the value in these big kickstarter items isn't in ships necessarily, but more in playsets and display value.  I really view Jabba's Skiff as more of a playset / display piece than a ship.

Along those lines I really don't see a whole lot of interesting ships other than the Death Star and a Sandcrawler.  I'd be more jazzed about an Ewok Villiage / Imperial Bunker playset, a Mos Eisley cantina, a Rebel war room / hanger, or something along those lines.  In fact I think if they made a Jabba's Palace instead of a Jabba's Sail Barge I might be almost as equally interested in that.

I really want a large ship/playset to display my other figures/ships with.

Ultimately I don't think I'm really that interested in a larger more accurate X-Wing, or TIE, or Imperial Shuttle, or U-Wing, or Landspeeder.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 20, 2018, 03:34 PM
Yeah... I Jabba's Palace or Mos Eisley Cantina would be aweome, and probably have far fewer moving parts... so maybe slightly more reasonably priced.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on February 20, 2018, 03:39 PM
When I was younger, I always wanted a Hoth Echo Base set. Like huge, with the hangar. Doubt that would ever happen.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 20, 2018, 04:35 PM
Y-wing done to scale. Hands down my biggest vehicle want. Followed by the B-wing. Neither of those should break the bank.

I'd also like to have some diorama options. Definitely a carbon freeze chamber and the Emperor's throne room.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 20, 2018, 06:16 PM
I think a concept like Haslab would be the appropriate avenue to address things that just wouldn't work at retail because of either size, niche appeal, or price point.  The one that really seems to fit that bill in my opinion? A Death Star playset.  And maybe some kind of large starship like a Star Destroyer or the Blockade Runner.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 20, 2018, 07:47 PM
I agree, but given the retail offerings of the past five years, it seems like any larger vehicle with a realistic sculpt/proportions could be on the table. The Y-Wing could probably be about the same size as the Naboo cruiser toy, but we keep getting the same, small version.

I think a playset would be good as long as they keep it to simple scenes rather than putting everything in. A Death Star playset would be cool, but we'd probably end up with very miniature versions of the key areas. If the scale is too obviously crunched down, it would look weird. Kind of like having a playset that has the hangar, trash compactor, overbridge and chasm in one overall package, and with everything undersized.

The thing that's very cool about the sail barge is that it's a playset that's not trying to be several locations in one. So in that vein, I'd rather have something like the carbon freeze chamber as a standalone. Or the detention block as a standalone. Or the overbridge as a standalone. They could be assembled together, or displayed separately.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 20, 2018, 09:21 PM
Give me a bigger Sandcrawler.


Don't forget, hopefully coming via Disney parks.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on February 20, 2018, 09:26 PM
Someone asked Hasbro at TF about a Sandcrawler, and not sure of the exact quote, but they effectively dismissed it. I look forward to the Disney one, because I'm a Jawa fanatic.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on February 20, 2018, 10:21 PM
I thought that the Disney crawler would be out by now.  I'd love to get that as well.  I've got enough droids and Jawas for it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on February 21, 2018, 01:31 AM
I'd want the Ghost and a Death Star playset if this pans out.  Honestly, they could redo all the ships to be more properly scaled I suppose, but personally I don't want to replace all those!  Just give me modern versions of older stuff we don't have or something completely new.  The only exception to that for me would be a larger-to-scale Jawa Sandcrawler, just because there's so much they could do with it similar to the barge.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 21, 2018, 06:14 AM
I agree, but given the retail offerings of the past five years, it seems like any larger vehicle with a realistic sculpt/proportions could be on the table. The Y-Wing could probably be about the same size as the Naboo cruiser toy, but we keep getting the same, small version.

I get where you're going with this.  And I agree, the OT version of the Y-wing does seem a little small.  But we do also have something else to go on with the Y-Wing, and that's the Clone Wars version of the vehicle.  That one was significantly larger than the vintage sculpt that was the basis for the POTF2, OTC and 30AC releases.  But when you look at the difference between the two, like in this Banthaskull comparison shot (http://www.banthaskull.com/forums/showthread.php?2400-TCW-Y-Wing-fighter/page8)?  I think that Hasbro could find a way to bridge the gap and upscale the Y-Wing to a degree.  Heck, even make a version where you can remove the armor plating and strip it down to Rebel Alliance specs!

As for other potential big items? 

A Hoth base is definitely intriguing.  To really make it something unique and worthy of a Haslab treatment... you would have to include the Ion Cannon!  I think it's only been touched on a couple of times in the past 40 years, and that was in the vintage era Micro Collection and the more recent Action Fleet line.  And even that's almost 20 years old.

A Cloud City playset is also really interesting to think about, too.  Although I think that Hasbro could probably do a Cloud City playset in a similar fashion to the way they did the TLJ flagship playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 21, 2018, 10:04 AM
This is what excites me so much about the Haslab concept. The sail barge is amazing, and I really hope I'm able to figure a way to work it out (like others, I won't go into debt over it), but the potential for future ideas is so fun to think about.

Obviously, the Death Star is an obvious choice. I always wanted one as a kid and I'd be interested to see what they would do today. I also think it would maybe be a little tougher to please everyone with that though, as everyone wants something different. Other than that I'd really be down for modern versions of other vintage playsets, particularly Dagobah and the Ewok village. The Echo base set is a neat idea too.

As far as vehicles, I'm not sure. I usually lean more towards OT stuff, but for me they have covered some of the big ones pretty well. The BMF, AT-AT, Snowspeeder, large wing TIE, Slave 1, Landspeeder, AT-ST, and X-Wing have been done pretty well. I'd like to get a Sandcrawler, and the Y-Wing can be improved. I guess you could upscale things like the Imperial Shuttle. As for newer stuff, I'd be in for the Ghost, Poe's X-Wing, and the Gorilla Walker.

Of course, the more of this type of stuff we get, the more challenging it is going to get these things displayed. Again, we may be entering the age of even more specialized collecting. Not many (any?) of us have unlimited space for all this.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on February 21, 2018, 11:57 AM
Someone asked Hasbro at TF about a Sandcrawler, and not sure of the exact quote, but they effectively dismissed it. I look forward to the Disney one, because I'm a Jawa fanatic.

While I do not have any other evidence than anecdotal, I have long been convinced that Hasbro assists (or is sub-contracted by) Disney with the manufacturing of the 3.75" scale Droid Factory offerings and also the other items they've released in the past like the Star Tours Box Sets, carded Star Tours Droids and even the Star Speeder. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if the Disney Characters as Star Wars Characters line that used to be available wasn't produced out of the same factories that Hasbro uses - how else do you end up with a product like Jedi Mickey Mouse and a ROTS Jedi Starfighter in the same box?

So the primary reason why the Hasbro reps dismissed the Sandcrawler is that they are working on a Sandcrawler to be specifically released at Disney Parks as part of the Droid Factory line. They can't comment on that because they are acting as a sub-contracted designer/manufacturer for Disney Parks and the Hasbro brand will not appear anywhere on the product.

My guess is that Disney is waiting for the launch of the new Star Wars land in 2019. There will probably be a new assortment of droid parts AND the Sandcrawler all at the same time.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on February 21, 2018, 12:03 PM
That makes sense. Hopefully the Disney crawler is huge. Definitely looking forward to that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: darth broem 2 on February 22, 2018, 08:00 AM
A Death Star and Star Destroyer immediately come to mind for me. I can come up with many more, but those 2 items would be at the top of my list. Others are:
Jabba's Palace
Luke's homestead
Sarlacc - Pit of Carkoon
Echo Base
Mos Eisley Cantina/ Docking Bay 94
6 Inch Scaled X-wing Fighter
Skiff
Sandcrawler
Imperial Cargo Ship from Rogue One
Scariff Playset
Okay I will stop. I know most of those are not practical, but I would be interested.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on February 22, 2018, 09:22 AM
Quote
Imperial Cargo Ship from Rogue One
Scariff Playset

These would be good. I loved the look of the cargo ship.

Other ideas from the new films:

U-Wing (for real this time)

TIE Interceptor (ditto)

Kylo Ren's Shuttle

FO Troop Transport

Resistance Bomber

AT-M6

Resistance X-Wing (to scale, or at least not flimsy)

Blue Squadron X-Wing (this is almost certainly coming, if you pick up what Steve Evans is putting down)

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on March 25, 2018, 09:36 PM
I'm wondering if we'll see some large scale sequel trilogy vehicles, as well as a full selection of SA figures for that trilogy? If so, I'd be tempted for sure.

(https://lumiere-a.akamaihd.net/v1/images/at-m6-walker-main_99ddc753.jpeg?region=0%2C0%2C1560%2C878&width=768)

^ That could be on the horizon as a future Haslab project, especially if they have a presence in EP9.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on March 26, 2018, 09:14 AM
Could be the walker that breaks the camel's back on collecting Sequel stuff.

Were those walker supposed to be larger than the AT-AT (it looks like there's an original AT-AT in the middle there) or do they just have smaller ones as well?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on March 26, 2018, 09:43 AM
The Incredible Cross Sections books actually have dimensions on the various walkers.  They're also listed over at Wookieepedia.  The AT-M6, per the book, is just over 36 meters tall.  And the AT-AT is listed at 22.5 meters tall.  During the battle on Crait it does appear that the First Order is using their own version of the AT-AT.  And those seem to be dwarfed by the AT-M6.

Given how tall walkers like the BAT-AT and AT-ACT are?  I don't know how Hasbro could feasibly package an AT-M6.  Unless they can find a way to detach the legs for assembly by the customer.  The box would just wind up being too big.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on March 26, 2018, 11:29 AM
Yeah, I think if the AT-M6 ever gets made, it would need to be through Haslab, where the size of the box is less of a concern.

I'd buy one or two, then probably find myself in a feverish downward spiral of trying to track down all the SA Sequel stuff I could find.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on March 26, 2018, 01:12 PM
Didn't the BAT-AT's legs need to be snapped on?  I don't think that would be an issue for packaging, snapping them on is all they'd need to do.

As for how big this thing would be... it would certainly need to dwarf the BAT-AT.  Count me in for one.

I do question the collector market for the AT-M6 though considering how divisive the sequel trilogy seems to be.  And if it were a Haslab project, it would need to be open worldwide.  No more of this US/Canada only approach. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on March 26, 2018, 01:20 PM
I also think the AT-M6 would be a bit down the list, considering it didn't really do much in the movie. Looks cool. For me, the Resistance Bomber would be a better choice. Lots of action, play value and would be a good hefty vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on March 26, 2018, 01:28 PM
Yeah, I imagine they aren't rushing them out, but if they went the Haslab route, I'd get one. General release would (I guarantee) be an absolute disappointment. The BAT-AT was such a great collector piece that unfortunately we'll never see on store shelves again.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on March 26, 2018, 03:00 PM
The Incredible Cross Sections books actually have dimensions on the various walkers.  They're also listed over at Wookieepedia.  The AT-M6, per the book, is just over 36 meters tall.  And the AT-AT is listed at 22.5 meters tall.  During the battle on Crait it does appear that the First Order is using their own version of the AT-AT.  And those seem to be dwarfed by the AT-M6.

Given how tall walkers like the BAT-AT and AT-ACT are?  I don't know how Hasbro could feasibly package an AT-M6.  Unless they can find a way to detach the legs for assembly by the customer.  The box would just wind up being too big.

You're assuming that the AT-M6 would be to scale.  The AT-ACT is horribly underscaled.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on March 26, 2018, 04:46 PM
True, I think the closest we'd get is a heavily modified BAT-AT.

To be honest, I don't understand why they made the AT-ACT a larger walker in the first place. Was the AT-AT not awesome enough for Rogue One? I didn't even realize they were different until recently. In the theatre, I assumed they were just AT-ATs with cargo areas. It's a very minor issue I take with Rogue One, but honestly I don't see the two types of walkers on the screen at the same time, so I feel like it's more a marketing thing than anything else. It's like "this walker is MOOOAAARRRRRR AWESOME!!!" Whatever.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on March 26, 2018, 05:09 PM
Wait a minute, they slightly altered something just to sell more? I'm outraged and stunned
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on March 26, 2018, 05:50 PM
Wait a minute, they slightly altered something just to sell more? I'm outraged and stunned

Kind of like the Jedi (We have no possessions) Starfighter?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on March 26, 2018, 07:08 PM
The Incredible Cross Sections books actually have dimensions on the various walkers.  They're also listed over at Wookieepedia.  The AT-M6, per the book, is just over 36 meters tall.  And the AT-AT is listed at 22.5 meters tall.  During the battle on Crait it does appear that the First Order is using their own version of the AT-AT.  And those seem to be dwarfed by the AT-M6.

Given how tall walkers like the BAT-AT and AT-ACT are?  I don't know how Hasbro could feasibly package an AT-M6.  Unless they can find a way to detach the legs for assembly by the customer.  The box would just wind up being too big.

You're assuming that the AT-M6 would be to scale.  The AT-ACT is horribly underscaled.

I was talking about RELATIVE scale.  At least the AT-AT relative to the AT-M6...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on March 27, 2018, 05:16 PM
I understand what you mean Nick, but if you take the Legacy AT-AT and put it next to the AT-ACT, the AT-ACT is horribly underscaled.  It was my understanding, that the AT-ACT should be the same size, or larger that the AT-AT.  Looking at the AT-M6, it is much larger than the AT-ATs in the picture from TLJ....there's no way we'd get one on the scale with the Legacy AT-AT.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on March 27, 2018, 07:04 PM
Totally.  If Hasbro was to try making an AT-M6 to scale with the BAT-AT, it would be the size of a Rotweiler!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on March 27, 2018, 08:32 PM
ATACTs are significantly taller than ATATs but I’m not sure if they’re broader.  I think so, but not sure.  The ACT didnt make a ton of sense to me in the film except maybe it’s ability to Ford deeper water without submerging itself comes into play somehow?  Larger walkers were always a part of the EU and that was fine by me but I just never really saw a good explanation why the ACT was so.

It also was odd that they almost seemed to surprise the Rebels...  I mean that’s pretty hard to miss but yet they did sort of appear out of nowhere.  Rogue One still kicks ass.🤷‍♂️
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on March 27, 2018, 11:26 PM
Jesse,  I believe some of the ideas they had about Scarif was, originally it's where they were building the Death Star....so the AT-ACTs were used to move cargo about.  I'm also not too sure about the width, but I agree that they were a bit taller.

I'm sure someone's done a size comparison somewhere.....TO THE INTERNET!   ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on March 29, 2018, 09:22 PM
Score of scores today. I got a BMF, missing the three front missels, two landing gear and the remote. For $50 today. $50!!!  This thing is awesome!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on March 29, 2018, 10:08 PM
Score of scores today. I got a BMF, missing the three front missels, two landing gear and the remote. For $50 today. $50!!!  This thing is awesome!

I’ll give you sixty bucks for it!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on March 30, 2018, 12:23 AM
Yeah, that thing is like one of the crown jewels of my collection.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on March 30, 2018, 10:37 AM
Yeah, that thing is like one of the crown jewels of my collection.

Okay, okay - $70.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on March 30, 2018, 02:49 PM
Great find Qui-Gon!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on April 4, 2018, 06:41 PM
I predict the next Haslab item will be either:
Rebel Blockade Runner...not to scale, but good enough.
or
Y-Wing (movie scale).
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 4, 2018, 09:22 PM
The YWing done to scale, would have me ordering a minimum of 3.  Maybe a 4th to custom.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 5, 2018, 06:30 PM
Definitely.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on April 5, 2018, 07:11 PM
I can't see them doing a Blockade Runner... it's just too large a ship to make sense in anything even remotely resembling 3.75" scale.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 5, 2018, 09:56 PM
Agreed. I think it would just be kind of dumb.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on April 5, 2018, 11:04 PM
I think the next BIG thing will be a DS of some sort. There will be an incentive for Hasbro to try and 'outdo' the Barge, I suspect.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 5, 2018, 11:10 PM
But hallways!  ;D #Trolling

Seriously, as much as I love me some Rebels, the Tantive IV never struck me as a toy I wanted.  It is, for all intents and purposes, just hallways guys shoot at each other in.  While I want them, I think that's something far more suited to GTP to pull off.

The barge I think works for so many other people because it's something almost designed to fit on a shelf as a large display, but it's all encompassing, the scale isn't absurd at all...  it's got everything going for it.  It's really quite shelf-like in its displayability.  While I think the idea of stackable interlocking hallways works for that, I think it isn't an avenue Hasbro will want to explore.  They'll want something more like a large "shape" that has lots of environments to it.  As such, my interest in anything like that will depend a lot on what it looks like. I can personally see myself not supporting quite a lot of designs that could come out.

That said if they did random interlocking "scenes" from anything in a customizable format, I'm in, but I don't expect that.  I'd be surprised by that.

Scale ships, that is 1/20-ish (scale's arguable on so much) scale, would have my attention for sure.  A Slave-I would be large, but not Barge Large I don't believe.  Y-Wing and X-Wing would definitely be doable as the Hero X-Wing is actually larger than 1/20 scale.  I'm interested and would wholeheartedly get behind those, but I also don't believe that's where Hasbro wants to go.  I could be wrong.  It'd be like UCS Lego type stuff but for Hasbro.  Any OT starfighter would have my full support.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 5, 2018, 11:17 PM
I want the Ghost.  Something the Phantom could attach to.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 5, 2018, 11:21 PM
If I were a betting man, I'd say they're going to try and re-do the vintage Rebel Transport with HasLab at some point.

It's too niche/boring for regular retail with all the new media choices out there but it's something that will attract a lot of collector interest since it's a Kenner item that hasn't been redone yet and would slot into the "Vintage Collection" aesthetic nicely.  Maybe 2020 for ESB 40th?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 5, 2018, 11:39 PM
I think a Tantive IV makes a lot of sense but I question the demand.  It could work out great if the sides came off to reveal the iconic hallways, detachable escape pod, landing gear with an improvised loading ramp, etc.  They could design something epic that is 42" or so if they do their homework... it would absolutely need a couple exclusive pack in figures though.... candidates could be BAD C-3PO and R2-D2 on POTF cardbacks.

That being said, I think they should make a Death Star while the iron is hot and if that goes well, consider the Tantive or a Bespin playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on April 5, 2018, 11:41 PM
I'd LOVE a Rebel Transport. Always loved that ship.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 6, 2018, 12:20 AM
What would you pay for a rebel transport?  It's cool and all but I have doubts on the overall demand... the original was basically a figure case disguised as a ship for kids....

A modern one aimed at adults would probably need a different approach.... with an elaborate interior.... could be really cool if done right though of course, and I'd probably be up for it.  It's low on my priority list though compared to some other items.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on April 6, 2018, 12:29 AM
The Rebel Transport having a TVC basis is an interesting argument for it, and something I hadn't considered.  Man I wish they'd do the mini-rigs, but do them like to-scale.  Just re-release the Atgar laser tower as the radar laser cannon, fill in some other stuff.  I'd love a new tripod cannon.  Kind off on a tangent, just thinking about TVC things that we never got a modern update on in that packaging.

Anyway, yeah, there is no dead end here I don't think, and anything is fair game to get done.  Just certain directions and ideas, I just don't see them going certain ways.

The ghost is cool and I'd be happy for people who got one, but I can't see them doing that to-scale and for me that'd be a deal breaker on it.  It's a lot smaller than the Falcon I believe but still massive so I'm not banking on that in the slightest.  Even Slave-I I think is doable but unlikely.  They'll consider the last one good enough I'm sure.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 6, 2018, 06:37 AM
I'd be into a revamped Rebel transport.  That ship has turned up in Rebels, Rogue One, TESB, ROTJ and even TLJ.  Granted, the only time we ever saw the interior was in Rebels, but it is a workhorse of a ship for the Rebellion.

I think if the exterior got re-done to reflect the lines of the ship as it's seen on screen that would be a good first step.  Then the interior.  Could they do that dorsal cockpit pod in such a way to make it look right?  Who knows.  But if they could incorporate a modern mini-rig?  That would be fantastic!  Something like the MLC-3, but if it would incorporate design elements like this echo base gun from this deleted scene?  That would be a selling point I'd be into.

(http://starwarz.com/tbone/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/987.jpg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 6, 2018, 08:23 AM
I feel like the TVC Slave 1 is actually pretty great, and pairs up well with the BMF. The entry ramp could be more accurate for sure, and the interior stinks, but that might be more of a job for customizers than Haslab.

I do think Hasbro will use this angle to create more press-worthy items though, so we may not see the logical items we would expect like Y-Wings and other slightly-more-to-scale smaller ships. Don't get me wrong, I'd love it if they started pumping out definitive versions of Star Wars ships, but I just wonder if each campaign will need to make a bigger and bigger splash. I guess it depends on how much the marketing team gets involved and fouls it up.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 6, 2018, 08:58 AM
HasLab is probably going to take a break from Star Wars for a while.  I would expect that they almost certainly would not do another Star Wars campaign until the Sail Barge is delivered next year.

And from what I understand the concept is going to be used for other brands like Transformers and Marvel, so I would expect one of those licenses to roll out a campaign some time in the next few months.  My guess is that they would do that around SDCC.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on April 6, 2018, 09:15 AM
I want the Ghost.  Something the Phantom could attach to.

Seconded! I bet this is something they had in some stage of development at one point too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on April 6, 2018, 09:17 AM
Maybe go smaller.  An updated Skiff?  How cool would a TFA replacement dish for the BMF be?  Or maybe go with the AT-M6? 

I think we will be disappointed when the next HasLab is not Hasbro.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on April 6, 2018, 09:39 AM
HasLab is probably going to take a break from Star Wars for a while.  I would expect that they almost certainly would not do another Star Wars campaign until the Sail Barge is delivered next year.

And from what I understand the concept is going to be used for other brands like Transformers and Marvel, so I would expect one of those licenses to roll out a campaign some time in the next few months.  My guess is that they would do that around SDCC.

I could see one at a time per line...

Maybe go smaller.  An updated Skiff?  How cool would a TFA replacement dish for the BMF be?  Or maybe go with the AT-M6? 

I think we will be disappointed when the next HasLab is not Hasbro.

I don't know that they'd do small stuff... 8,810 orders for the sail barge is a ton, but the margin is probably pretty solid on each one...

Could you imagine them selling a really nice Skiff for like $60 or $70 shipped and having to ship 25,000 orders while only profiting $20 or $30 each?  At some point in the scale and price of an item, the amount of work going into shipping to individual customers outweighs the margins they're making.  It's not the same case when you're just shipping pallets full of cases of smaller stuff to distribution centers.

All that said, I do think The Ghost is the kind of item that makes sense... if they think the demand is there. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darby on April 6, 2018, 09:45 AM
The Ghost would be great, and maybe makes the most sense, if it shows up in future TV. I'd wager a updated Skiff will hit retail next year, to go along with the Barge. A re-release of the POTF mold is possible, but let's see something new.

Love all the ideas on the transport. Probably way down the list, but I'd buy it. The next SW HasLab will be TF next year, almost certainly, and it will be something massive like the DS or so left field no one will guess. But it's fun guessing.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 6, 2018, 11:24 AM
Pitch meeting at HasLab:

"Call up a Hammerhead Corvette....I have an idea!"
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 6, 2018, 11:52 AM
Hisstank is asking people if they'd go for a Haslab USS Flagg, but I'd hope if they do GI JOE to go with a new Terror Drome... I doubt GI JOE would get anything for a while, would depend if the new movie renews interest enough...

My son (soon to be 11) used to love GI JOE but the lack of media, and buddies who are interested in it now has zapped his interest.  He still says he wants a new Terror Drome though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on April 6, 2018, 12:32 PM
The Ghost would be great, and maybe makes the most sense, if it shows up in future TV. I'd wager a updated Skiff will hit retail next year, to go along with the Barge. A re-release of the POTF mold is possible, but let's see something new.

Love all the ideas on the transport. Probably way down the list, but I'd buy it. The next SW HasLab will be TF next year, almost certainly, and it will be something massive like the DS or so left field no one will guess. But it's fun guessing.

I would want to see a Twilight over a Ghost, I loved the design of the Twilight. Plus the Clone Wars figures were at least available, and the mains needed for the crew have even been done as realistic VC versions. They could get reissued for the occasion.

I'd also be seriously ready to go with the Rebel Transport in the Sail Barge treatment.

An $80 VOTC Skiff at retail next year would be very interesting.

My gut tells me the next thing HasLab throws at us is a Death Star Playset (as opposed to a Death Star Replica or a Death Star Modular Diorama) followed by a Blockade Runner not-to-scale vehicle.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 6, 2018, 01:15 PM
I would absolutely be into a Ghost vehicle.  Especially if it can interact with the previously released Phantom.  But then there's the figure question.  If you release the vehicle, you're going to need to support it with some figures.  Would Hasbro make realistic Rebels figures, like they eventually did with the core characters from Clone Wars?  It's a question worth examining.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on April 6, 2018, 01:17 PM
I would absolutely be into a Ghost vehicle.  Especially if it can interact with the previously released Phantom.  But then there's the figure question.  If you release the vehicle, you're going to need to support it with some figures.  Would Hasbro make realistic Rebels figures, like they eventually did with the core characters from Clone Wars?  It's a question worth examining.

I doubt it, they didn't even make that much product in the animated line... especially compared to CW.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 6, 2018, 01:32 PM
I think Rebels is pretty much dead to Hasbro. 

IMO, the only way we'd see a Ghost would be if the made a live action movie with these characters and vehicles.  Rebels would have to have a much bigger following than it currently does.


Some items I'd love to see the big scale treatment are below, though maybe not in this particular order:

- Death Star diorama playset inspired by vintage micro collection
- Cloud City diorama playset inspired by vintage micro collection
- Hoth diorama playset inspired by vintage micro collection
- Imperial Landing platform w/ Endor bunker diorama playset
- First Order AT-M6
- Tantive IV ship/playset
- Tatooine Cantina diorama playset
- Rebel U-Wing
- Maz's Castle diorama playset
- Scarif Citadel diorama playset

...most of these obviously have zero chance of ever happening.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on April 6, 2018, 02:35 PM
While I'd be down for some of these items, I'd love to see Haslab focus on figures as well to do those obscure high-demand figures that collectors would want but probably wouldn't see the light of day at retail (or heavily peg-warm).  Give us some of those Padme outfits, give us the #15, 16 17, 18, 19, et al Cantina background characters, give us Jabba's denizens and skiff/barge guys, how about the rest of the Imperial dignitaries?  Maybe give us a deluxe carbonite block with light up features? Partisans, Rebel pilots, etc.  The possibilities are endless. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 6, 2018, 03:13 PM
A scale carbon-freeze chamber is a huge want for me.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on April 6, 2018, 03:41 PM
I think Rebels is pretty much dead to Hasbro. 



REBELS is done from the standpoint of having current entertainment support.  I think everyone is on the same page on that.  But in the era of HasLab?  THAT type of campaign is where a project like that CAN happen, given enough fan/collector support.  That's provided Hasbro feels that there might be sufficient interest for them to put their necks out for another Star Wars HasLab campaign...

As for other large items?  It seems like there are factors that need to be taken into account:  if it's older, does it have a degree of recognition and fan interest to make it of interest now?  Otherwise, it would seem as though current entertainment support would be necessary for most larger vehicles or playsets to move forward.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CHEWIE on April 6, 2018, 09:09 PM
I think the core problem with Rebels was that it was going up against SW films at the same time, and the 5poa approach didn't exactly enamor that many people.   I always compare it to Clone Wars, which on the other hand came out after the prequel trilogy when kids and fans were starving for more Star Wars media - Hasbro was able to give it a lot more attention too.  There's just a lot more SW media now and Rebels kind of took a back seat.

As for Haslab on Rebels items, as cool as a Ghost would be, I think there's a lot more demand for OT based ships and playsets.  Not that there's not a good following for Rebels, I just would not expect to see a Haslab effort towards trying to make that happen.  Who knows though? 

Regarding other Haslab offerings, if the target is adults then I don't think current entertainment matters too much; it's probably the degree of recognition and fan interest that matters like you mentioned.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on April 6, 2018, 11:08 PM
if it's older, does it have a degree of recognition and fan interest to make it of interest now?
Regarding other Haslab offerings, if the target is adults then I don't think current entertainment matters too much; it's probably the degree of recognition and fan interest that matters like you mentioned.

This is how I feel too.  That's why I speculated something like the Rebel Transport.  Things that are tied to the OT, especially iconic unmade things (like the Sail Barge was) or things tied to Kenner toys (like the Rebel Transport, Death Star or Cantina playsets) seem like a higher chance to end up at HasLab where they are clearly targeting the older, adult collectors with $500 to burn.

I'm just one guy, but I'll sacrifice space in my collection room and $ from my wallet for something OT, not sure I'd pull the trigger on a Ghost or a Twilight or Kylo Ren's shuttle.   :-X
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 7, 2018, 02:06 PM
I'd LOVE a Rebel Transport. Always loved that ship.

Me too. Great combination of carrying case and playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on March 5, 2019, 04:00 PM
Was anything learned at Toy Fair about what HasLab has in store for the next big item, or when that item was going to be announced?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on March 5, 2019, 04:26 PM
Was anything learned at Toy Fair about what HasLab has in store for the next big item, or when that item was going to be announced?

Most of the Haslab spin seemed to indicate Hasbro was waiting for total success on the Barge (ie product shipped to backers) before doing another just for proof of concept purposes.

As for 'what's next', I've seen and heard so many rumors I don't know what to believe anymore - giant size things like a 3.75"-scale Death Star playset or 6"-scale Resistance X-Wing (to go with the TIE), all the way down to some sort of exclusive figures that don't stand a shot at retail - Cliegg Lars, background cantina aliens like Tzizvvt, or even concept stuff like Heater/Jabba, etc.

I'm selfishly hoping they stick to 3.75" Star Wars, but it would not surprise me if the next one involved 6" Star Wars or another line entirely (Marvel, GI Joe, etc). 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on March 5, 2019, 08:35 PM
If I had to put money on the next Haslab project, I would look at the Transformers team.  Steve Evans just moved over to that unit within the past couple of months, and he seemed to be shepherding the Sail Barge.  So why not have him explore the Haslab concept with the Transformers IP?

My guess for a Transformers Haslab offering?  A very SIZABLE Unicron.  I think that would be an amazing item to offer through Haslab.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on March 6, 2019, 09:24 AM
I wouldn't be a buyer, but if it's GI Joe, make it a USS Flagg.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on March 6, 2019, 09:30 AM
I would be in for something like the Ghost or the Twilight.  Some kind of Rebel Cruiser or Playset would work for me as well.  If its a 6" Xwing, I would pass. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on March 6, 2019, 10:45 AM
I'd like to see the Ghost....especially since it showed up in Rogue One.  Seeing as the phantom was made and it looked like it was supposed to connect to something bigger means they have the blueprints sitting around somewhere.

I'd also like to see what they could do with a Death Star, or the Gorilla Walker from TLJ.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 6, 2019, 01:31 PM
Can't remember if I mentioned this before, but I would love an updated version of the Imperial Outpost playset proposed right before the line was canceled in 1985. THAT would be something!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on March 6, 2019, 03:43 PM
Have we talked about how there's a Haslab tab (yuck yuck) at Hasbro Pulse now?  Maybe it was always there but I didn't notice it the first few times I went to the site.

https://hasbropulse.com/pages/haslab
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 7, 2019, 05:33 PM
So the barge has been out for a few months now, and it’s like 18 months since it was announced.  Anyone else feeling like Hasbro might be set to announce a new Haslab item at Comic Con?  I could be totally off the mark, but if they want to keep some momentum going, I feel like something should happen relatively soon.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 7, 2019, 06:23 PM
So the barge has been out for a few months now, and it’s like 18 months since it was announced.  Anyone else feeling like Hasbro might be set to announce a new Haslab item at Comic Con?  I could be totally off the mark, but if they want to keep some momentum going, I feel like something should happen relatively soon.

If they're going to announce something new Comic Con would be the place to do it.

I'm hoping for something Death Starish.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 7, 2019, 11:17 PM
It would be great to see a Death Star, but the last time Hasbro talked about HasLab they were still saying the next project would be non-Star Wars.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 8, 2019, 12:52 AM
It would be great to see a Death Star, but the last time Hasbro talked about HasLab they were still saying the next project would be non-Star Wars.

We don’t need that kind of negativity in here.  :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 8, 2019, 09:36 AM
I got the sense that the next Haslab project might be with another one of Hasbro's IP's.  To me that probably means either Transformers or Marvel, at least while GI Joe is on hiatus.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CorranHorn on July 8, 2019, 10:13 AM
Best guess for a big item would be from Transformers - Unicron or Fortress Maximus.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 11, 2019, 11:46 AM
The next HasLab project has been revealed! (https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/sesame-street-cookie-monster-full-sized-talking-puppet-hasbro-haslab-131316875.html) It's not what you think!!!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 11, 2019, 12:18 PM
Whelp, looks like I have more money to spend at Galaxy's Edge in October.   ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 11, 2019, 12:19 PM
This is weird. I wasn't sure it was real until I cross referenced it. I knew it wouldn't be Star Wars but wouldn't have guessed Sesame Street in 1000 guesses
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CorranHorn on July 11, 2019, 12:33 PM
Certainly did not see that coming, but it’s cool nonetheless. Would be cooler if it had sound so we could hear Cookie Monster’s voice. My daughter has a small talking Cookie Monster and we love it, at full size and chatty  this would blow her mind.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 11, 2019, 12:46 PM
Both my sons love their small talking and eating cookie monster. But I wouldn't have guessed there is a market for $300 Cookie Monsters that you wait a year to get. Good for those fans I guess......
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 11, 2019, 04:01 PM
That's the way to cookie monster crumbles. This is a red flag that Hasbro isn't renewing the Star Wars license. You just don't kill momentum like that. The Khetanna was a final milking of love letter to collectors.

This based on a rumor I read from C. Little.  :P
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on July 11, 2019, 04:13 PM
I’m still not sure this isn’t a joke. Total WTF...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 11, 2019, 04:39 PM
I honestly don't know why anyone is surprised that this is not a Star Wars offering.  Hasbro stated that the next Haslab offering might be from some other licensed property, and this makes it perfectly clear.  The fact that it's not either a Transformers or Marvel offering is a little bit of a surprise to me, but I was almost certainly not going to be backing another project that wasn't a Star Wars item.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 11, 2019, 04:44 PM
I have zero surprise it's not Star Wars. But I certainly thought it would be a collector heavy toy line. Admittedly I don't know if Sesame Street has a lot of toy collectors.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 11, 2019, 04:56 PM
This paragraph is hilarious to me for some reason.

Because to bring the dream of a full-size Sesame Street product to life, we consulted with leaders and influencers in the Muppet fan community to voice fan opinion about character choice, product development, offering, and messaging—making this a by-the-fans, for-the-fans project, every step of the way.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 11, 2019, 05:24 PM
I wouldn't have guessed there is a market for $300 Cookie Monsters that you wait a year to get. Good for those fans I guess......

Well, 10+ years ago, Master Replicas made a 1:1 Kermit the frog (limited edition 2500).  They are still very much in-demand with Muppet collectors and often sell for around $500-600 when they hit eBay (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Kermit-The-Frog-Photo-Puppet-by-Master-Replicas-Muppets-MIB/264292619520?hash=item3d89115500:g:SAoAAOSw7QBcvGfp).  So maybe making 3000 Cookie Monster figures for $300 is not out of the question?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 11, 2019, 05:44 PM
Shame on me for not doing my Muppet related research before commenting.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 11, 2019, 07:04 PM
I guess we'd be wise to order one and then sell it and spend the money on Haslab's next next project....a life-sized doll of Pink Power Ranger Amy Jo Johnson.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 11, 2019, 10:42 PM
I guess we'd be wise to order one and then sell it and spend the money on Haslab's next next project....a life-sized doll of Pink Power Ranger Amy Jo Johnson.

Lol! I worked with her on Power Rangers. I had to lift her into the arms of a monster. The only way I could get her up there was to lift her from her behind. She actual said to me, "just push me up by my butt," But, she didn't say "butt."  And I did. :)

True Story.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 11, 2019, 11:32 PM
That's the way to cookie monster crumbles. This is a red flag that Hasbro isn't renewing the Star Wars license. You just don't kill momentum like that. The Khetanna was a final milking of love letter to collectors.

This based on a rumor I read from C. Little.  :P

Think you could call him Little C. but that C doesn’t mean “chicken” anymore.  Guy has serious compensation issues on a routine basis... over action figures.

The world doesn’t revolve around 40 + y/o Star Wars collectors today, and for some it was their first time realizing this it seems (by the comments online I’ve seen).  There is some seriously funny outrage out there tonight.  Worthy of a couple chuckles.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 12, 2019, 01:41 AM
Yeah, people are losing their **** that this isn't a Star Wars project. I'm not surprised that it isn't Star Wars, but I am surprised it's Cookie Monster. I'm not getting him, but it seems like a cool project that should generate some PR for Hasbro, which is really the point for them, I think.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 12, 2019, 10:21 AM
I guess we'd be wise to order one and then sell it and spend the money on Haslab's next next project....a life-sized doll of Pink Power Ranger Amy Jo Johnson.

Lol! I worked with her on Power Rangers. I had to lift her into the arms of a monster. The only way I could get her up there was to lift her from her behind. She actual said to me, "just push me up by my butt," But, she didn't say "butt."  And I did. :)

True Story.

Not all heroes wear capes!   :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 12, 2019, 12:25 PM
The word "entitlement" comes to mind with a lot of the reactions to this news.  That kind of sums up my feelings just from observing some of the reactions.  Some of the funniest responses were saying things like "Clearly Hasbro is not renewing the Star Wars license!"  Really?  People took that from this news?!?!

And again, I thought that Hasbro would probably gear the next Haslab project to another boys toys license:  Transformers, Marvel, maybe even use it to re-launch GI Joe.

Sesame Street was a bit of a surprise as the license goes.  I had no idea that Hasbro even had that particular license.  But going back 10+ years I remember a lot of friends were *REALLY* into the Palisades Muppets line.  Some of those pieces still go for pretty good money on the secondary market.  And with Sesame Street/The Muppets?  That market segment of really young kids is still a pretty good target market that is into toys and hasn't been swayed as much yet by video games.

I would definitely like to see another Star Wars Haslab project.  But I wasn't banking on it happening again any time soon.


Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 12, 2019, 01:27 PM
I’m relieved to not be laying out for another huge purchase right now.  Space is limited and Comic Con exclusives are expensive.  Even though I don’t want the Cookie Monster, I think it’s awesome.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 12, 2019, 03:01 PM
The group losing their mind because this isn't Star Wars are laughable until they become nauseating.

I will say I think Hasbro could have done themselves a favor by making this type of line more obviously a possibility for Haslab. This reaction can't come as a shock to them. The group that expects nothing but what they want (with Disney too) has been bad mouthing them for quite some time now. Even if it's a bunch of crazies.

Most of the community of collectors I interact with were sure this would be from the SW, Marvel, Joe or Transformers lines. So as Hasbro why not nip that at the bud at least a little a little sooner?

Serious question. Does anyone know if the Sesame Street / Muppet collecting community thought at Haslabs inception that something like this was a possibility?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Scockery on July 12, 2019, 03:08 PM
And again, I thought that Hasbro would probably gear the next Haslab project to another boys toys license:  Transformers, Marvel, maybe even use it to re-launch GI Joe.


GI JOE's fate seems to depend on if Hasbro can get another movie made. The Snake-Eyes movie seems to be stalling.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 12, 2019, 04:11 PM
Does anyone know if the Sesame Street / Muppet collecting community thought at Haslabs inception that something like this was a possibility?

Considering 99% of Hasbro's Sesame Street stuff is toddler toys or plush items (sold under the Playskool brand), I'll have to guess they were not expecting this to be an option.

I will admit (based on some insider knowledge I have) that I was expecting one of two things to be next and this was obviously neither of those two projects.  It's a surprising choice for sure, but it's kind of cool that they went in a direction no one was expecting and are taking the Haslab idea to a completely different audience than just "action figure dudes".
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 12, 2019, 04:51 PM
I know it's only a day, and I know the target number is 2k smaller than the barge, but at 159 backers this one seems off to a slow start to me. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 12, 2019, 05:11 PM
I didn’t expect this either and had no idea they had a SStreet relationship at all but hey it’s not for me so whatever.  I mean if I were stupid rich tho I’d buy this and put it in the car to use the HOV lane.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 12, 2019, 05:54 PM
I know it's only a day, and I know the target number is 2k smaller than the barge, but at 159 backers this one seems off to a slow start to me.

Good news / bad news?   

I wonder if as a Star Wars collecting community we want this to succeed, fail, or don't really care. 

I assume the barge was considered a huge success.  I wonder if failure/success of a giant Cookie Monster would have any impact on the potential of future Star Wars items.

I could argue that a failure of this item may push Hasbro back towards Star Wars, but I could also see where a failure could have them throw in the towel that these big things aren't worth the internal hassle.

I wonder if success may in general allow them to staff their HasLab team at a higher level to crank these unique items out at a faster clip.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 12, 2019, 11:49 PM
Personally I want it to succeed because obviously some want it and stuff so I’d want them to get the thing they want...  I think any speculation otherwise is sorta meh.  But I’ve seen lots of irrational stuff about all this too.  People citing this as proof the license is ending, that Hasbro hates “us” (their use of “is” not mine), that it was done because of Disney sucking somehow, or that they don’t want OT fans to get another toy, or that it’s all because Hasbro can’t run a company right but collectors could and on and on and on.

Some people are being more normal when it’s pointed out they’re being unreasonable at best and completely batshit nutty at worst...  others are full tilt leaning into the rage over this which is kind of funny but definitely childish.

I mean Marvel and GIJ and Transformers groups should be taking a healthy steamer on Star Wars fans feeling they deserved the first and second goes at this experiment.  They have some right to disappointment.  I wouldn’t agree they’re right to hope it fails though, since some folks do want it. 🤔🤷‍♂️
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 12, 2019, 11:59 PM
I feel the same way. It isn't for me, but I hope it gets made for those who want it. I can't say the thought wouldn't at least cross my mind for a second if it was from the Muppet Show  ;). That said, it was definitely a surprising choice.

I didn't really think it would be a Star Wars item two times in a row either, and was just kind of excited to see what they would try next. Still wondering if this strictly has to be an expensive/large item each time, or if they could do smaller things too? Like, for example, since it seems like GI Joe is kind of not a mass retail thing right now, if they wanted to try a 6" line of Joes, like 6-12 a year or something, could they sell a subscription to something like that? Or any other license. Could we get an exclusive single figure (like the Imperial Dignitary) that would maybe struggle at retail? To be honest, if it wasn't Star Wars, I'd kind of like to see some sort of Joe resurrection (3 3/4", 6", or a vehicle).....or a Black Series style, face printed, Indiana Jones figure.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 13, 2019, 01:39 AM
I can't see how this succeeding would hurt us as SW collectors. I doubt they'll cancel the next SW item (whenever that is to come) to make Grover in response to 3000 Cookie Monsters selling. And I feel there's way too much "guessing" to assume SW moves up again if Cookie Monster fails.

I would be willing to bet a lot of the people that think this failing or succeeding directly benefits or hurts us SW people are the same entitled people that want everything their way and can't wait to say I told ya so.

I won't lie. I'm disappointed in Cookie Monster. But just for me personally. It does little for me. Something from Joe, Marvel, etc would have been more fun to see even if I didn't buy in as I find that interesting. But that also isn't going to make me begrudge a fellow toy collector something they love. So here's hoping at least 3000 people own a $300 blue monster this time next year.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 13, 2019, 10:26 AM
I didn’t expect this either and had no idea they had a SStreet relationship at all but hey it’s not for me so whatever.  I mean if I were stupid rich tho I’d buy this and put it in the car to use the HOV lane.

I read this and just had to laugh.  I saw a story on the news recently about a guy who worked for a funeral home who got pulled over for driving his van alone in the HOV lane.  The reason he gave to the officer was that the occupant in the back of the van WAS a person... a little while ago.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 13, 2019, 07:28 PM
I've been super busy at work, so I'm only just now finding out about this! All I can do is laugh, I literally CAN NOT WAIT to jump over to a certain other site and laugh from all of the entitlement comments that I'm sure to find stating how dare Hasbro not have this item be another Star Wars item.

Like many of you, I was not expecting it to be another Star Wars item, never expected it to be a Sesame Street item, but hey, if they can get the backers, kudos to Hasbro. The item itself does look impressive.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 13, 2019, 09:10 PM
For what it's worth?  I've taken my kid to Sesame Place in PA a couple of times.  And people there go CRAZY for Cookie Monster!  He's by far one of the most popular characters there.  Does that mean people are going to plunk down $300 for a life size Cookie Monster?  Who knows?!?!  But part of me wants to make some popcorn and search the term #Haslab on Twitter just for the entertainment factor.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 13, 2019, 09:18 PM
Well, that site did not let me down, the best comment I read went (and I'm paraphrasing) - "as a supporter of the first HasLab Project - the Sail Barge, my wanting the next project to be Star Wars and being upset that it's not Star Wars isn't entitlement, it's that I want more Star Wars" - when you read stuff like that you wish you could tap the person on the shoulder and hand them a dictionary already open to the word "entitlement" and ask them to read the definition.

The other comments that had me laughing were the ones that equated the 2nd HasLab project NOT being Star Wars as a sign that Hasbro clearly has NO interest in Star Wars anymore and probably isn't going to be renewing their license. Oh, that's what it means? Wow, well thank you very much Carnac the Magnificent!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 13, 2019, 10:15 PM
I kid you not when this broke I was at work and I can’t get online much or even on my phone much and I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why people were flipping their wigs about Cookie Monster.  It was kind of unreal.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 14, 2019, 09:59 AM
Star Wars isn't the only license Hasbro owns, so I can't blame them for broadening the projects reach. The only real bummer is that it could be years until we get another SW Haslab item unless they decide to run different items concurrently.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on July 14, 2019, 03:55 PM
I do feel like Marvel and Transformers fans have a right to feel a little disgruntled. There are so many good options for either of those properties. Stuff that would enhance existing toy lines too, as opposed to being a weird one-off thing like this.

I also think Hasbro could have saved themselves some headaches by just coming right out and saying definitively early on that the next project would 100% for sure NOT be Star Wars. Even the most thick headed fan boys would have gotten the message.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 14, 2019, 04:37 PM
I also think Hasbro could have saved themselves some headaches by just coming right out and saying definitively early on that the next project would 100% for sure NOT be Star Wars. Even the most thick headed fan boys would have gotten the message.

The thing is, I am sure Steve Evans was saying exactly that last summer--that it definitely was not going to be a Star Wars project next time. That was what I understood, anyways. ???

In my head, HasLab projects have been pitched for the past 18 months by every team in Hasbro to their powers-that-be, and this is the first one that looked like it was worth investing the (admittedly meager) upfront costs to pay off.

(On the same track, I speculate Star Wars got lucky with Mark Bordeaux's passion for the stuff and he did a lot of upfront design work "for fun" without compensation.)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 14, 2019, 05:13 PM
I agree with what Muftak is saying but still think it would have saved them some grief to make it clear something like SS was a possibility.

Maybe even they didn't think that at first?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 14, 2019, 05:29 PM
I also think Hasbro could have saved themselves some headaches by just coming right out and saying definitively early on that the next project would 100% for sure NOT be Star Wars. Even the most thick headed fan boys would have gotten the message.

Dude....how long you been in this hobby?

Could you imagine a Hellicarrier if they had gone with Marvel?  Or a Galactus?  That would've been cool too!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ben on July 15, 2019, 09:30 AM
If Cookie Monster isn’t your style, maybe a brand new Unicron?

https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron (https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron)


https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/07/15/haslab-war-for-cybertron-unicron-crowdfunding-revealed-391400 (https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/07/15/haslab-war-for-cybertron-unicron-crowdfunding-revealed-391400)

$575.  :o
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 15, 2019, 09:44 AM
If Cookie Monster isn’t your style, maybe a brand new Unicron?

https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron (https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron)


https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/07/15/haslab-war-for-cybertron-unicron-crowdfunding-revealed-391400 (https://news.tfw2005.com/2019/07/15/haslab-war-for-cybertron-unicron-crowdfunding-revealed-391400)

$575.  :o

This is PRECISELY what I thought Hasbro might do next if they were doing a Transformers project.  It leaves me wondering if maybe the folks at Hasbro wanted to see some people wig out with the Cookie Monster announcement first?  I did get many a giggle out of it, I have to say! 

Unicron is such a natural fit for this kind of project.  And in light of that, what things would Hasbro consider doing for their other major licenses down the road?  If it's GI Joe, a new USS Flagg seems like a natural choice.  But what about Marvel?  What would they do there?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 15, 2019, 09:50 AM
If Cookie Monster isn’t your style, maybe a brand new Unicron?

https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron (https://hasbropulse.com/collections/haslab/products/transformers-war-for-cybertron-unicron)

Well, that didn't take long to announce the next thing.  8000 backers seems like a lot but I guess that's about where the Sail Barge ended up in final orders so I guess Hasbro is hoping this will perform the same as the barge did?  It'll be interesting to see if this one makes it.


I will admit (based on some insider knowledge I have) that I was expecting one of two things to be next and this [Cookie Monster] was obviously neither of those two projects.

Unicron was one of those two projects I had heard was coming...  the other is Star Wars based. ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 15, 2019, 09:55 AM
8000 seems insane to me. But 8000 probably seemed insane to Transformers' fans when Barge ended.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 15, 2019, 10:02 AM
I will admit (based on some insider knowledge I have) that I was expecting one of two things to be next and this [Cookie Monster] was obviously neither of those two projects.

Unicron was one of those two projects I had heard was coming...  the other is Star Wars based. ;)

I would be a little shocked if they went to the well again with Star Wars.  Especially in light of the comments they made last year which seemed designed to tamp down expectations.  But with the Skywalker Saga coming to a close, maybe they want to strike while the iron is hot?  I'll guess it's a Death Star playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 15, 2019, 10:16 AM
It's not to scale....easy pass.  Right Jesse?!   :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 15, 2019, 11:23 AM
It's not to scale....easy pass.  Right Jesse?!   :D

I was breathlessly scanning the page to see how big this sucker was, hanging on the schoolyard rumors of a 6-foot tall version from my childhood. I knew it couldn't be that big, but 4 foot (like the barge) seemed to be in reach.

"Over 27 inches."

27 inches??? That's only 3 inches taller than Fort Max! If they couldn't hit 3 feet, why bother?

(On the Star Wars side of things, based on this I am now capping out my expectations for a Death Star at 30" tall)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 15, 2019, 11:38 AM
I’m not a transformers guy, but what do you fanboys think?  Is this something you’re likely to spring for?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 15, 2019, 12:30 PM
I don't collect Transformers either... but 8000 at $600 for a line that's collected less than Star Wars (as far as I know at least) seems like a tall order.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 15, 2019, 12:59 PM
So 2021 Death Star will be $800.

Then real Haslab or wife question becomes reality
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 15, 2019, 02:32 PM
Honestly, this is more what I expected to be next with the whole HasLab thing. I have a few Transformers, primarily vintage or from the recent Siege line, but I can't say I'm interested personally. I just don't have the budget for this stuff often (actually relieved in a way that we get a break before the next Star Wars one, unless that gets announced next), and I'd rather save for a Star Wars project.

I don't collect Transformers either... but 8000 at $600 for a line that's collected less than Star Wars (as far as I know at least) seems like a tall order.

I've been kind of curious about this as well. Is Star Wars still the big dog among a collector fan base - at least for things offered at retail? It is difficult to tell these days. Some exclusives, particularly online, sell out quickly...but the retail environment, at least locally, seems bleak. Same things always on the pegs, regardless of scale/line, and nothing seems to be moving (3 3/4" in particular). Transformers may not be there, but what about something like Marvel Legends? Honestly, that seems like the biggest game in town as far as Hasbro lines. I don't see why every project necessarily has to be a big/expensive item. I get that it is things like this that won't make it to retail (and also grab headlines). I mentioned it before, but it could possibly be a good outlet for the return of GI Joe (3 3/4", 6", whatever), since apparently it isn't retail viable without a movie.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on July 15, 2019, 04:22 PM
Outstanding...I worry too that it might be too ambitious in its numbers, but it’s a great choice and insanely cool looking toy. I am rooting hard for this one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 15, 2019, 04:46 PM
Outstanding...I worry too that it might be too ambitious in its numbers, but it’s a great choice and insanely cool looking toy. I am rooting hard for this one.

The skiff set a high bar for others to follow.  Hopefully this also doesn't create a challenge if the price goes up for the next Star Wars item and they expect a $600 Death Star to sell as many units as the barge.

Hopefully they worked out a bunch of bugs with the barge and know how to distribute this internationally a lot better as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2019, 10:45 PM
It's not to scale....easy pass.  Right Jesse?!   :D

Honestly if it’s like the BB8 set yeah probably lol.  Of course that’s assuming it happens anyway but while I love the Jabba Palace thing, I didn’t love that BB8 and passed happily...

I’m not saying it would be like that...  and I’m not saying I know anything...  but I am saying if it turns out like that style, it’s not my cup of tea really.  🤷‍♂️
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2019, 10:47 PM
Btw regarding Transformers, the fan base for those is all about shelling out insane money for stuff.  Huge collector base around the world.  Japan is probably even bigger than US.  I wouldn’t judge it to be a small collector group.  They have lines of insanely expensive stuff just like Star Wars does.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 16, 2019, 01:13 AM
I think Unicron is a great choice for a HasLab project. Interesting that Hasbro is going to have multiple projects running at once, but their choices of project certainly do not have much overlap in terms of collector community so they should be good. Now if they were to introduce a Marvel or GI Joe project now, I think there would be quite a bit of fighting between collecting communities if neither project got backed because it might be viewed as overlap between the collecting communities affecting the ability for backers to take on both projects.

Unicron was one of those two projects I had heard was coming...  the other is Star Wars based. ;)

I REALLY hope you're not implying that a 3rd project announcement is on it's way and it's going to be a Star Wars project.  :(

I could honestly use a little break.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 16, 2019, 02:07 AM
I REALLY hope you're not implying that a 3rd project announcement is on it's way

I make no claims that another HasLab announcement is imminent, just that there is definitely at least one more Star Wars idea in the HasLab parking lot as a potential project. 

Actually, there are probably at least two Star Wars ideas in the parking lot since a Death Star Playset is so obvious a choice that it must be in the parking lot already as well.  :-X
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 16, 2019, 09:43 AM
They should make Unicron bigger for each 2,000 or so people that back the project. That would swell the numbers.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 16, 2019, 12:33 PM
I REALLY hope you're not implying that a 3rd project announcement is on it's way

I make no claims that another HasLab announcement is imminent, just that there is definitely at least one more Star Wars idea in the HasLab parking lot as a potential project. 

Actually, there are probably at least two Star Wars ideas in the parking lot since a Death Star Playset is so obvious a choice that it must be in the parking lot already as well.  :-X

Send me a PM with what you know.  I have a TS clearance...promise I won't leak it!  :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 16, 2019, 01:35 PM
As somebody who has been paying attention to these things, I think the other upcoming Star Wars HasLab initiative is supposed to be a BS scaled X-Wing Fighter.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 20, 2019, 01:43 PM
Does anyone know if Elmo or Grover or whoever is checking in with Cookie Monster? I'm a little worried about his mental health right now.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 20, 2019, 03:16 PM
As somebody who has been paying attention to these things, I think the other upcoming Star Wars HasLab initiative is supposed to be a BS scaled X-Wing Fighter.

Please no.  Nothing big that is 6" scale.  That TIE Fighter was cool, but almost nobody bought it even when it was clearanced out for $50.  I passed on simply because it was so big and I didn't have a place for it.

I love the smaller vehicles/beasts they do like speeder bikes, landspeeder, etc., but I don't want an X-Wing or anything large.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 20, 2019, 03:43 PM
I'm with Dave. I love the TIE, but if I'm going to devote that much space to something else, let it be a never before made 3.75 scale item
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on August 15, 2019, 12:18 PM
Checking today I see it's not exactly going gang-busters for the two current projects.

Unicron = 31.8% backed (2546/8000) with 16 days left
Cookie Monster = 15.4% backed (462/3000) with 10 days left

For comparison, the Sail Barge was at 60% (3002/5000) with 13 days to go.  The number of orders for Unicron isn't tracking that far off what the Sail Barge did, it's just Unicron's much higher 8000 threshold that makes the overall % look bad.  Unicron succeeding is still possible if it gets the same kind of push as the Barge did in the final two weeks. 

I wonder if Hasbro has plans for a 'kicker' for Unicron to get the buzz going again?** (Like adding Carded POTF Yakface did for the barge.)  I saw they added a 'plush cookie' to the Cookie Monster HasbLab project but I don't think that'll move the needle enough for him to make it to 3000.

edit: **today they announced Unicron has a removable head with an alternate 'damaged' faceplate you can use to replicate the end of the 1986 movie.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on August 15, 2019, 03:23 PM
They should have bumped his size for each 1k of backers.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on August 19, 2019, 03:45 PM
Not looking good for Cookie Monster.  Only picked up 25 more backers this weekend.  Down to six days to get 80%+ of the backing necessary.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 20, 2019, 12:21 AM
Poor Cookie Monster.  Perfect HOV lane companion.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on August 26, 2019, 08:32 AM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on August 26, 2019, 09:13 AM
Schaudenfreude...

 :-[
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 26, 2019, 10:16 AM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......

I doubt it.  The Jabba's sail barge did very well.  If anything this should have Hasbro focusing more on Star Wars.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on August 26, 2019, 11:19 AM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......

I doubt it.  The Jabba's sail barge did very well.  If anything this should have Hasbro focusing more on Star Wars.

That's what I was thinking/hoping
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 26, 2019, 11:31 AM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......

I doubt it.  The Jabba's sail barge did very well.  If anything this should have Hasbro focusing more on Star Wars.

A year ago I thought Hasbro was rediscovering Star Wars and leaning into it pretty hard.  Now it looks like they're getting ready to let it fade away...


Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on August 26, 2019, 11:53 AM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......

I just hope Star Wars doesn't get the product manager that pitched Cookie Monster internally at Hasbro.  They clearly had no sense of what the market wanted.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 26, 2019, 12:19 PM
So does a somewhat embarrassing fail for Cookie Monster mean anything for future Star Wars Haslab releases?.......

I doubt it.  The Jabba's sail barge did very well.  If anything this should have Hasbro focusing more on Star Wars.

A year ago I thought Hasbro was rediscovering Star Wars and leaning into it pretty hard.  Now it looks like they're getting ready to let it fade away...

I feel like that this has a lot to do with Steve Evans being brand manager, then not.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on August 26, 2019, 02:36 PM
Steve is a professionally savvy, career minded chap...he's got a wife and kids to feed, and not just until the SW license expires!  ;) :D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on August 26, 2019, 05:52 PM
Why have Unicron's numbers gone down?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 26, 2019, 06:31 PM
Cancelations?   Deleting duplicate or illegitimate orders?

If I remember right, this happened during the barge too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on August 26, 2019, 07:34 PM
It was down to 1500 but now it's over 4000 again
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 26, 2019, 08:25 PM
Oh, well that's obviously not what I was thinking... weird.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 27, 2019, 01:49 AM
I don’t think it’ll really have a major impact.  Hasbro conferred with the community they targeted that CM at and those people clearly didn’t put their $ where their mouths were since I guess people seemed on board then never showed up.  That’s fine and Hasbro has to look outside Star Wars nerds for $, I just am not sure the communities are that strong.

Hell, Unicron is lagging and that’s a strong community internationally but in the US?  Eh, maybe not so strong.  I wonder where a GIJoe item would land, or Unicron had it not been so expensive (it’s a lot more than the barge numbers isn’t it?).

How many big things will Star Wars fans back too?  The barge got by but I already have seen a lot of people saying they wouldn’t again because they feel Hasbro cheated them by not giving them absolute pristine boxes, or whatever.  And I’ve seen loads of those people not just a handful here and there. 

I’m not sure I’d back another too.  I’d have to really care about what it is because honestly this barge is ok but I’m not that into it haha.  I was happier with the tank honestly. Or the new skiff. 😕
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 27, 2019, 11:48 AM
Personally I think their aiming too big with the choices for Haslab. 

Do a Yoda’s hut, or a Hoth Rebel Transport, or an Imperial Dignitaries 5-pack, or Vader on a funeral pyre... or the Tonnika Sisters... there are tons of affordable but somewhat pricey,  smaller and mid-sized things they could do that collectors want but probably wouldn’t do well in stores.  Not every project needs to be $500 or $700 and enormous. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 27, 2019, 12:38 PM
I'm curious as to the financial impact of Haslab projects failing. I'd assume that the loss is factored into the decision to create a prototype and promotion for the campaign.

But, I don't think that this failure, or potentially the other, will effect the Haslab project overall. As long as Star Wars projects succeed, there's incentive to keep up with them.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 27, 2019, 12:40 PM
I'm curious as to the financial impact of Haslab projects failing. I'd assume that the loss is factored into the decision to create a prototype and promotion for the campaign.

But, I don't think that this failure, or potentially the other, will effect the Haslab project overall. As long as Star Wars projects succeed, there's incentive to keep up with them.

I bet it's not too bad.  They had some team of people working on designing and building the prototype, but there's a marketing value in all that as well. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on August 27, 2019, 12:54 PM
Personally I think their aiming too big with the choices for Haslab. 

Do a Yoda’s hut, or a Hoth Rebel Transport, or an Imperial Dignitaries 5-pack, or Vader on a funeral pyre... or the Tonnika Sisters... there are tons of affordable but somewhat pricey,  smaller and mid-sized things they could do that collectors want but probably wouldn’t do well in stores.  Not every project needs to be $500 or $700 and enormous.

This. My feelings exactly. I get that the large items are splashy and headline grabbers, but imagine how those smaller projects would succeed. Just using your Yoda's hut as an example, I would be all over that...as I'm guessing most old school collectors would be. It isn't something they would probably do at a retail level, and it wouldn't have to be so expensive.

I've often thought the same thing for GI Joe stuff. A lot of talk is Joe has stated "dead" for now because war/army stuff is a tougher sell these days. Unless they have a hidden plan on the comeback of GI Joe, why not throw an item up on Haslab to see how it goes. It doesn't necessarily have to be a $900 U.S.S. Flagg either.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on August 27, 2019, 02:16 PM
I agree with most on here.  The failure of Cookie Monster isn't the doom for Haslab projects.  The Barge worked and we'll see how Unicron does.  I just figure that the market isn't there for a life-sized Sesame Street character.  I don't think it hurts Hasbro in the long run to invest in a prototype and see if enough people are interested in the project.  It's better than the alternative of devoting resources to mass-produce something only for it to not sell.

I also think Rob is right, too.  I think that Hasbro could aim for small-sized figures that might be fan-favorites but would peg-warm at stores.  Give us dignitaries, Cliegg Lars and the other background characters (Cantina Patron #36) instead.  For $15/20 a pop, I think they'd do well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on August 27, 2019, 03:20 PM
Personally I think their aiming too big with the choices for Haslab. 

Do a Yoda’s hut, or a Hoth Rebel Transport, or an Imperial Dignitaries 5-pack, or Vader on a funeral pyre... or the Tonnika Sisters... there are tons of affordable but somewhat pricey,  smaller and mid-sized things they could do that collectors want but probably wouldn’t do well in stores.  Not every project needs to be $500 or $700 and enormous.

I think there is a sweet spot of customer needs and economic realities at Hasbro. 

My guess is anything under a certain price point ($125-ish) would not have the return and needs to be considered a retail / fan channel item.  And anything that gets price prohibitive will limit collector's abilities to buy it.  I get the sense that $300-ish is about the right range.  Go much higher than that and its too hard for most to obtain.

Another thing to consider is that if they're building things for the collector market there is a finite pool.  How many Yoda's Huts or 5-pack of Imperial Dignitaries would you buy at any price?   Probably just one unless you're speculating or customizing, but the vast majority of us collectors would only buy one.  If you can't sell those lower valued items in a fan channel also then you're probably wasting your potential return on investment.

I think if they're going to do mid-priced items they're going to have to bundle them somehow, either via subscription or just bundle them to get to a sensible price point - e.g. $150 purchase gets you Yoda's Hut and an Imperial Dignitaries pack.  Even if they do that they may run in to collectors that only want one of the items and thus split the purchase.

The Barge hit the price point, was unique, and wasn't divisible.  I think they need to find the next thing like that.  Death Star, Star Destroyer, or whatever and make sure it hits that price point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on August 29, 2019, 04:00 PM
Looks like they added 35 or so days to the transformers project, I wonder if that does the trick...  I’d think that if you were going to do it you’d have done it by now...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on August 29, 2019, 08:33 PM
Hm, I bet some people wish they had given an extension on the barge too. This seems like a purely face saving move after Cookie Monster crashing and burning. But if it helps get it made, more power to ‘em.

I could see this making people skeptical about deadlines for future projects too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on August 30, 2019, 07:29 AM
I don't blame them but also agree this may cause some people to just assume they'll get another month on future offerings.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 31, 2019, 12:40 PM
Great points raise about the impact of extending the Unicorn campaign. I can see both sides. However, if the end result is a great project being fully funded, then I would say that the decision of extending the deadline is a good thing.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on September 26, 2019, 04:06 PM
Unicron is still slowly crawling forward.   5700 of 8000 backers signed up with 10 days to go.

I'm sure Hasbro is going to find a way to get this made either way, but still a ways to go to hit 8000.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on October 1, 2019, 09:23 PM
6859 with 5 days to go. They just announced an exclusive digital comic or something to sweeten the deal. Does not seem like much of a bonus to me but good luck I guess.

BTW,  nice of you to email about Unicron Hasbro, but where was my email alerting me that 6” exclusive Luke was up earlier this week? Premium members should have had first crack at that too.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: CorranHorn on October 1, 2019, 09:39 PM

BTW,  nice of you to email about Unicron Hasbro, but where was my email alerting me that 6” exclusive Luke was up earlier this week? Premium members should have had first crack at that too.

I was just thinking the same thing. I get all these emails about Unicron and non-SW exclusives, but when it is time for SDCC Fett or Yavin Luke, my inbox is bare. Wtf Hasbro Pulse you know what I buy!!!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on October 7, 2019, 04:46 PM
Unicron hit 8,000 today.  I don't know how much ******* had to happen behind the scenes to make it happen, but it's happening.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on October 7, 2019, 05:09 PM
Japanese TFers fans (and resourceful International fans) were able to order via Takara Japan (https://takaratomymall.jp/shop/g/g8000000001310/?mm190726tf) and those orders counted in the HasLab totals. That helped open it up across the world instead of just USA/Canada.

There could still be some chicanery going on, but at least this one was more global than the Barge was.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on October 7, 2019, 05:13 PM
Unicron hit 8,000 today.  I don't know how much ******* had to happen behind the scenes to make it happen, but it's happening.

Yeah, this seems highly suspect.

Right now it reads as "funded at 281%".  Does that mean they actually sold 22,480 units when they had to extend the date by a month and as of the deadline they were just barely making their 8,000 benchmark?

Not sure in they've got the Enron accountants working for them or how they got there...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on October 7, 2019, 05:15 PM
Unicron hit 8,000 today.  I don't know how much ******* had to happen behind the scenes to make it happen, but it's happening.

Yeah, this seems highly suspect.

Right now it reads as "funded at 281%".  Does that mean they actually sold 22,480 units when they had to extend the date by a month and as of the deadline they were just barely making their 8,000 benchmark?

Not sure in they've got the Enron accountants working for them or how they got there...

I'm sure the 281% thing is a programming screw up of some kind.  They've got a screen grab over at RS showing about 8,300... but now the website just shows 8k.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 10, 2020, 12:13 PM
I’m not an X-Men Marvel collector, but what do you think of the latest HasLab Kickstarter - X-Men legends Marvel's Sentinel (https://hasbropulse.com/products/x-men-legends-marvel-s-sentinel) for $350?

It looks like its a giant figure with a standard 6" figure that accompanies him.

The numbers are piling up pretty quickly, so it looks like there are quite a few fans of this.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 10, 2020, 04:47 PM
How long ago did that go live?  Already past 50% with 45 days to go seems like a shoe-in.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 10, 2020, 05:29 PM
There are plenty people "army building" this too. I've read numerous people getting 2 or 3 or 4.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 10, 2020, 06:30 PM
Looks really cool.  If I were collecting X-men, this would be a must have.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on July 10, 2020, 06:51 PM
The fan reaction is great.  About 3700 now when it was just over 1700 this morning. Stimulus money? Great timing Hasbro.  ;)

While large, the size makes the postal rate more reasonable than Jabba' barge to send to Haslab buddies overseas.

I was thinking earlier that $350 was crazy money to spend on a 26" figure and glad we don't have that in Star Wars. Now I'm shaking my fist at Lucasfilm for not giving us an iconic mega-large character that can be made into a super cool action figure. And no, Warbot does not count.









Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 10, 2020, 07:12 PM
I was thinking earlier that $350 was crazy money to spend on a 26" figure and glad we don't have that in Star Wars. Now I'm shaking my fist at Lucasfilm for not giving us an iconic mega-large character that can be made into a super cool action figure. And no, Warbot does not count.

$500, 3 foot diameter, 10 feet long...

(https://lumiere-a.akamaihd.net/v1/images/space-slug-main-image_258e5c1b.jpeg)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on July 10, 2020, 10:58 PM
Nope, I wants my Clone Wars Zillo Beast!  ;D
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 11, 2020, 05:48 PM
And funded/backed in one day....wow. Now on to what essentially amounts to “stretch” goals for the Sentinel. I am a Legends collector/fan, but not sure if I’m in for this as cool as it looks. Space is always a premium, and I’d rather save those larger display areas for Star Wars.

Side note, is this evidence that Marvel is that much bigger then Star Wars or Transformers? I realize there is a price difference, and the army building aspect, but one day is pretty impressive. I guess Marvel is likely larger on a general population scale, but for some reason it still seemed like Star Wars was the biggest collecting game in town (just looking at it nostalgically). Not the case it seems.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 11, 2020, 08:47 PM
Interesting to see a giant Cookie Monster failed miserably and this got 7000+ in one day.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on July 11, 2020, 10:20 PM
I personally feel it says something, Brian.

I love me some 3.75” figures, but this smoked the Barge for barely less really and in a scale that’s supposedly not cool...  I dunno.  Seems cool to someone.

I’m sure there will soon be the “spin” news posts on this but that’s pretty impressive turnaround on this backing.  I think the upcoming TVC one will be telling on how with it TVC collectors are (or aren’t).  I’m in no group that is as miserable, so it’ll be interesting.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 11, 2020, 10:46 PM
I personally feel it says something, Brian.

I love me some 3.75” figures, but this smoked the Barge for barely less really and in a scale that’s supposedly not cool...  I dunno.  Seems cool to someone.

I’m sure there will soon be the “spin” news posts on this but that’s pretty impressive turnaround on this backing.  I think the upcoming TVC one will be telling on how with it TVC collectors are (or aren’t).  I’m in no group that is as miserable, so it’ll be interesting.

After watching the barge on the secondary market, the demand clearly goes beyond the number of people who bother to back it.  Depending on what is, I’m going to be tempted to buy a second one to pay for the one I keep.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 12, 2020, 07:03 AM
No matter what the TVC project is, it will not have this kind of showing out of the gate. The recent "saveTVC" petition online garnered 8k signatures total, and that wasn't a purchase, just a signature.

The Barge also brought 8k sales. I think we can see where our ceiling lies. Marvel Legends is showing their active fanbase runs much deeper.

Hopefully HasLab has made their plans based on the data that is out there. It's not going to be this easy for the TVC campaign...because if there is one more piece of data readily available, it's that there is absolutely no consensus as to what big item we want next.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 12, 2020, 12:23 PM
Regarding 8k and the barge... that was the number of people, in the US only, who were able and willing to plunk down $540 for a massive, space-hogging item that they wouldn’t receive for a year. 

There are surely tons of TVC collectors who either couldn’t afford that, had no where to put it, or weren’t allowed to buy it because they weren’t in the US.  Also, reading comments in YF’s Instagram, I see a lot of younger TVC collectors who don’t care about the OT at all and just want clone wars stuff. 

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 12, 2020, 12:28 PM
I don't think it's apples to apples.
$500 vs $350
Vehicle vs figure
Really big vs big
No secondary market data vs knowledge that you could have bought two barges from Haslab for price of one now.

That being said you are kidding yourself if you don't think this speaks volumes to where the SW and Marvel toy collecting communities are respectfully.

I'm certainly not absolving Hasbro's decisions over past X years when it comes to SW but I hope this makes some of the loudest yellers think a little.

This Sentinel is like the 3rd or 4th version of him/it. We can't even get our community to spend full retail on brand new vehicles that are really well done (tank, troop transport, etc).

Certainly gives me some perspective.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 12, 2020, 06:45 PM
I know the two figure lines are very different with Marvel having a historically limited (none?) 3.75" line while Star Wars historically was largely 3.75" and only recently picked up the larger 6" format.

I was thinking through different "big figure" options for Star Wars in a 6" scale, or anything $350-ish in the 6" scale. 

I really couldn't come up with anything in the 6" scale that I would be willing to pay that much for, mostly because of space constraints.  I passed on the 6" TIE Fighter, and still haven't ordered the Snowspeeder, even though I've got just about every 6" figure released.

Maybe its just that for me (and I assume a lot of long time collectors) that when I think of awesome Star Wars toys I immediately gravitate to the 3.75" line.  I'd be 1000% more interested in cool HasLab 3.75" items like the Tantavie IV, Death Star / Star Destroyer playset, etc. than anything that comes to mind in the 6" realm. 

I know we're technically in The Vintage Collection thread, but is there a $350+ item that you would pay for in the 6" scale for Star Wars?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 13, 2020, 01:09 AM
I wouldn’t buy because I don’t collect 6”, but what about a 6” scale Rancor?  $350 is probably way too high for that... but I can’t think of anything comparable to the Sentinel figure in SW...  plenty of vehicles, but like you’re saying regarding space issues... 6” vehicles is tricky.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Diddly on July 13, 2020, 01:43 PM
I think there is a lot to take from this one, many points already made, but I think the biggest thing is that Marvel has remained virtually the same scale for the last 20 years, while Vintage/3.75 inch are seen as an "old fogey" type of line. Let's face it, people like us who visit collectors forums are a dying breed, and younger fans/collectors have moved to or started with the 6 inch line. They're more concerned about getting 6 inch style Clone Wars and Rise of Skywalker figures than they are getting vehicles we've wanted for 30 years.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 13, 2020, 02:45 PM
I think there is a lot to take from this one, many points already made, but I think the biggest thing is that Marvel has remained virtually the same scale for the last 20 years, while Vintage/3.75 inch are seen as an "old fogey" type of line. Let's face it, people like us who visit collectors forums are a dying breed, and younger fans/collectors have moved to or started with the 6 inch line. They're more concerned about getting 6 inch style Clone Wars and Rise of Skywalker figures than they are getting vehicles we've wanted for 30 years.

You're probably not wrong, but the secondary market prices on some of these older 3.75" figures (https://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=25145.0) and the fact that you can't find this stuff in stores at all tells me that people ARE collecting them, at least in the quantities that they're being produced at.

As an nearly 40 year old with disposable income, I'd rather they make figures $20 a piece and start giving us never-before-made characters again... sell them directly through Pulse... whatever they've gotta do, I just don't need another K2SO and another Chirrut and another Hoth Leia... We've got more Lukes, Leias, Hans and Vaders than we know what to do with.  Give us interesting and obscure, but most importantly NEW.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on July 13, 2020, 05:10 PM
I think there is a lot to take from this one, many points already made, but I think the biggest thing is that Marvel has remained virtually the same scale for the last 20 years, while Vintage/3.75 inch are seen as an "old fogey" type of line. Let's face it, people like us who visit collectors forums are a dying breed, and younger fans/collectors have moved to or started with the 6 inch line. They're more concerned about getting 6 inch style Clone Wars and Rise of Skywalker figures than they are getting vehicles we've wanted for 30 years.

That’s a really interesting point, and probably a longer discussion thread, but something I’ve been curious about too. Really there is no way of knowing for sure, and it doesn’t impact what we are interested in one way or the other, but are the older school fans and collectors truly a “dying breed” (for lack of a better term). The most recent Black Series Fan Choice Poll really started me thinking about this again. Cody is a fine choice, sure, but I was a little surprised he won. I guess those polls have often been a little wonky, but that coupled with a lot of what I see on social media really points to the “Clone Wars Generation” inheriting things now. Not that I have a problem with that, it’s just interesting to me.

I basically enjoy most to all that we see from Star Wars, even if I’ll always look at the OT as my Star Wars in particular. I enjoy Rebels, CW, PT, ST, Solo, R1, and definitely the Mandalorian. I’ve just noticed as my daughter moved into middle school last year, a lot of kids that age (and older), really have next to no idea about the OT stuff outside of “Darth Vader” “Chewbacca”, and “Stormtroopers” unless their parents are fans. Heck, I work with a number of people in the 20-30 range who haven’t even seen those movies. I do wonder if 3 3/4” is indeed the “old people scale”, because you see very little of it. Some Fortnite, and Spinmaster is trying some stuff with DC, but that’s about it. Anyways, just getting old I guess...

Back on topic, the closest 6” scale approximation to the Sentinel I can think of is something like the Rancor. That would be crazy to see.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 13, 2020, 05:56 PM
I'm 42. Been playing with or collecting 3.75 Star Wars pretty much since I was born. Buy dumb variations your average person wouldn't notice. Etc.

With a few exceptions (source material I love with no other option) I won't touch anything non Star Wars that isn't 5 inches or bigger. Not sure what that means exactly, but I think it says something.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EdSolo on July 14, 2020, 09:05 AM
This is my $0.02 on all of this.  The Barge is a very cool item, but hardly an item that I think fandom had been clamoring for.  I also think people held back on signing up because the number required for it get made.  I had quit Hasbro for years by the time they made the Barge, but I purchased one just because of the playset aspect and I liked the concept of large items actually seeing the light of day in this fashion.  I didn't get on board until the goal had been met.  I still haven't unpacked the thing because I really don't have room to display it.

As for Marvel, I can see a large scale sentinel being a highly desired item for that collecting base.  As people have mentioned, multiple purchases for this type of item for just display seems likely.  No one was buying multiple barges for display, only resale.  While the Barge got the exclusive Yakface, the Sentinel is getting additional add ons based on total sales, which certainly helps.

For Star Wars, I don't think making a Haslab 6" item would be the way to go.  Like others have mentioned, items like the TIE Fighter in that scale wasn't the best mover.  I think if Hasbro had went with a Death Star playset or some type of large version of the vintage Star Destroyer set would have been a much better mover than the Barge.  I personally hope for a Death Star playset.  I would sign up on day one for that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 14, 2020, 10:53 AM
Like others have mentioned, items like the TIE Fighter in that scale wasn't the best mover.  that.

Not only was it not the best mover, but you could get them for like $60 eventually - which I did despite not collecting 6".  I hung it up at my office at the time because it seemed fun.  Now, I've got this monstrosity at my house, no where to put it, and they only get about $75 on the aftermarket.  Which is fine, I didn't pay a lot for it... I just don't want to meet up with anyone to sell something like that during the pandemic.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on July 14, 2020, 09:22 PM
I think if Hasbro had went with a Death Star playset or some type of large version of the vintage Star Destroyer set would have been a much better mover than the Barge.  I personally hope for a Death Star playset.  I would sign up on day one for that.

This.  I can't think of any "Figure" that would command this kind of price point.  Maybe a Sarlacc pit?  Certainly not a rancor.  But a 3.75" modular playset with added incentives at higher quantities?  I'm all in on that.  You could do a Death Star Playset, Star Destroyer, Cloud City, Echo Base, Mos Eisley Cantina, etc.  I think it would have to be that or some kind of really big, high demand 6" scale ship like the Twilight or Razor Crest to match the sentinel.

I'm a big Marvel fan, but not really an X-Men guy, so no interest in the Sentinel.  I can see the appeal and the extras really help, but it's not for me.  I'm really surprised at the numbers on this.  Sure, some people are army building, but I can't imagine too many people have the money or space to pick up that many duplicates.  Now if they were offering a 6" scale Quinjet?  I'm listening...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 27, 2020, 11:42 PM
Paging Adam Pawlus! (https://www.thathashtagshow.com/2020/07/27/did-the-vintage-collection-death-star-space-station-get-leaked-by-entertainment-earth/?fbclid=IwAR1--pXsGPCraOl45qd15WEb5tmm-hKHWD5zZVMYDxx8YtfyOCSD7p7nkjI)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 28, 2020, 11:43 AM
I don't get it... why would they re-do the vintage one and slap a TVC logo on it?!

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on July 28, 2020, 11:54 AM
Yeah seems odd. I was thinking Retro but then why the VC logo?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 28, 2020, 12:36 PM
Just sayin', if we're doing a Death Star play set, let's do a new and improved one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on July 28, 2020, 12:45 PM
Paging Adam Pawlus! (https://www.thathashtagshow.com/2020/07/27/did-the-vintage-collection-death-star-space-station-get-leaked-by-entertainment-earth/?fbclid=IwAR1--pXsGPCraOl45qd15WEb5tmm-hKHWD5zZVMYDxx8YtfyOCSD7p7nkjI)

That's weird that its a vintage box with TVC logo.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 28, 2020, 02:32 PM
Just sayin', if we're doing a Death Star play set, let's do a new and improved one.

++++++1

I have no interest in buying a reproduction of the vintage one.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on July 28, 2020, 08:10 PM
Stranger is that this is EE's LEGO booth. Out of place but intentionally included. Maybe just Entertainment Earth's own creation of the DS playset using LEGO? A collaboration between Hasbro and LEGO for a LEGO Death Star playset? Or Entertainment Earth just trolling?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EdSolo on July 29, 2020, 06:29 AM
Paging Adam Pawlus! (https://www.thathashtagshow.com/2020/07/27/did-the-vintage-collection-death-star-space-station-get-leaked-by-entertainment-earth/?fbclid=IwAR1--pXsGPCraOl45qd15WEb5tmm-hKHWD5zZVMYDxx8YtfyOCSD7p7nkjI)

That's weird that its a vintage box with TVC logo.

I would bet they had it printed up themselves using the original picture from the vintage Death Star.  It fits the line since all the vintage collection vehicles are made to look like the 70's/80's packaging.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on July 29, 2020, 01:19 PM
I won't turn down a Razorcrest. If it's an OT item I'm guessing it's the Cantina.

A sure fire launch would be the Razorcrest with two Blurgs, Quill, IG, multiple childs (in pram, in backpack for IG to wear), Karga and Moff Gideon, plus special edition Mando.

I've been thinking more about a Haslab Razor crest.

I'm convinced there's no way they would do a decent retail version. The biggest recent 3 3/4" releases were the TFA and Solo Falcons and those offered very little for $100-$130.

When I was a kid my cousin had the GIJoe Cobra Rattler. The engines had roughly 5 pieces and I would disassemble and reassemble engines for maintenance every time I got my hands on it.

Hasbro could add an amazing amount of features if they made a Razorcrest with many pieces and panels that could be disassembled to mimic looting by Jawas. Maybe this could be a stretch goal? Maybe that would also include Quill's trailer to hold a bunch of looted parts.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 1, 2020, 12:42 PM
Just sayin', if we're doing a Death Star play set, let's do a new and improved one.

++++++1

I have no interest in buying a reproduction of the vintage one.

I have 2 of the original and have to admit that I'd buy more. But, what would the cost of an official reproduction be? $100 feels way too much.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on August 1, 2020, 09:49 PM
Just sayin', if we're doing a Death Star play set, let's do a new and improved one.

++++++1

I have no interest in buying a reproduction of the vintage one.

I have 2 of the original and have to admit that I'd buy more. But, what would the cost of an official reproduction be? $100 feels way too much.

I think they would sell at $100 with a retro figure or two packed in there.  Most of these vintage sets are incomplete.  Upgraded trash and a trash monster would be cool too.  If its TVC, wouldn't they have to change the peg sizes?  I don't think the newer figures would fit on the older footpegs.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on August 1, 2020, 10:07 PM
Death Star is a lot of parts...  $100 would be a pipe dream imho.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on August 1, 2020, 10:18 PM
They should have done the Palitoy Death Star with Tarkin right out of the gate instead of the boardgame--it would've been nearly the same materials, and made a lot of collectors happy!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 2, 2020, 05:03 PM
They should have done the Palitoy Death Star with Tarkin right out of the gate instead of the boardgame--it would've been nearly the same materials, and made a lot of collectors happy!

Yes! Wish I had thought of that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on October 29, 2021, 02:20 PM
Since this has been our previous home for discussion on "other" Haslab items (Cookie Monster, Unicron, Sentinel, etc.), thought I'd track the progress of the three big projects and compare/contrast them -

#1 Black Series 6" Rancor - $350
Backers: 3886/9k (43%)
Time Left: 38+ days
Exclusives: none
Unlocks: 4 tiers, but nothing announced yet

#2 GI Joe 3.75" Skystriker - $230
Backers: 4555/10k (46%)
Time Left: 39+ days
Exclusives: none
Unlocks:
  13k = +1 exclusive 3.75" figure
  16k = +1 exclusive 3.75" figure
  18k = +2 exclusive 3.75" figures

#3 Ghostbusters Proton Pack - $400
Backers: 5044/7k (72%)
Time Left: 44+ days
Exclusives: Pulse Premium Members who order in first 48hours get four 1984-inspired green ecto-plasm goo attachment accessories
Unlocks:
  9k = Class I Classic Bundle (contents unknown)
  11k = Class II Ghostbusters: Afterlife Bundle (contents unknown)
  13k = Class III Spengler Special (contents unknown)
  15k = Class IV Supernatural Stand (contents unknown)

Wow, there must be a lot of merch-hungry Ghostbuster fans out there to pass 5k backers so quick.  It'll really be interesting to see how far this goes and I'm sure will help Hasbro sell a LOT of neutrino wands (https://hasbropulse.com/products/ghostbusters-plasma-series-spengler-s-neutrona-wand-premium-collectible) in the process (another $125 each).


Is it just me, or is the Rancor coming across like the weakest of the three Haslab projects?  I am just a dabbler in the 6" line so I'm not going to back the Rancor anyway, but it comes across as the lightest offering.  The Skystriker has a TON of accessories and room for more with all the unlocks.  The proton pack has lights and sounds.  The Rancor has... "it's really big".  Hm.  I guess "it's really big" worked for the Sentinel, but that wasn't up against two other Haslab projects at the same time.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on October 29, 2021, 03:09 PM
I'm (nearly) all in on Star Wars 6" figures but have virtually no interest in The Rancor.  Maybe if there were a pile of figures that were packed in (Maliki, Oola, etc.) I might consider it, but its too big and too expensive.

I didn't even realize that HasLab was running a Proton Pack kickstarter.  Pretty cool, but spendy, plus no wand??  And it appears there isn't a classic wand available either.  I own no Ghostbusters stuff but am much more interested in getting this proton pack than The Rancor.

After the choice of The Rancor by HasLab I have no ability to handicap their next choice.  This just seems dumb...  I'm torn on if I want it to succeed or not.  I'd like it to be successful for those in the collector community that want it, but I also want it to fail so that they might stay focused on 3.75" items as those have been very successful.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on October 29, 2021, 03:39 PM
Dave nailed my thoughts on Rancor. Force them to error on side of 3.75 stuff going forward. I also have almost all the 6" stuff but would much rather find space for huge barge than huge Rancor. The 3.75 Rancor is fine.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on October 29, 2021, 03:48 PM
I'm (nearly) all in on Star Wars 6" figures but have virtually no interest in The Rancor. 

Funny, because I collect literally no 6", and keep thinking the Rancor would look pretty freaking great on my basement coffee table. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on October 30, 2021, 01:10 PM
I have a complete 6” collection, literally every figure ever made and every variant except for the Bly one. So I am for sure all in on getting this Rancor. But I think they do themselves a disservice not announcing the stretch goals up front. Oola or Malikili could be great motivators for those on the fence.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on October 31, 2021, 11:41 AM
I'm 3.75" only for Star Wars (I collect 1:10 in various other licenses though). The Rancor looks cool, but I have no interest in backing it. Since it's a digital design, it would be freaking cool if they shrink it down for the 3.75" crowd eventually. We'd buy it for sure, Haslab or not.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EdSolo on November 1, 2021, 06:11 AM
I'm largely out of collecting Hasbro and have sold off most of my Hasbro stuff.  However, I did back both the Barge and the Razor Crest.  I don't have any of the newer Mando figures, but I did by the retro figures so my Razor Crest will look semi vintage.

As for Haslab, the Proton pack looks really neat, but nothing I would spend my money on.  I think all of us who grew up in the 80's have affection for that movie.  If money and space were no objects, I would probably back it out of nostalgia.  However, I think it will need all the stretch goals filled to be really worth it.  I like the idea of being able to switch between the new movie and the classic movie modes, especially if the new movie is decent.

The Rancor will be a pass for me.  The only 6" figures I picked up were the Greedo, Jawa, and Obi-Wan that looked like the vintage figure counter parts.  I don't have space for a giant Rancor even though I like the creature.  It took me over a year to break out my sail barge after I got it, and I still haven't pulled out the loose figures to populate it.

Skystriker - this is the winner in my opinion.  I had a ton of GI Joe stuff back in the 80's, included the GI Joe base.  I would set up GI Joe and Star Wars together.  By the time I was getting GI Joe stuff, my vintage Death Star was pretty much destroyed, but I still had the elevator.  I had a blue futon type chair that I would unroll and use as a landing strip.  I would set the Death Star elevator up next to it, so the pilot could take the elevator up to the top of the landing pad and board his jet.  This version looks great, very reminiscent of the original.  The extras that come before hitting stretch goals definitely make it worth it. Only thing missing is a ladder to get in the cockpit.  Those Luke pilot figures with ladder may be a good substitute if the ladder is the right length.  Then the stretch goals give you some cool bonus figures.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 5, 2021, 04:02 PM
Update time

#1 Black Series 6" Rancor - $350
Backers: 4477/9k (49.7%)
Time Left: 31+ days

#2 GI Joe 3.75" Skystriker - $230
Backers: 4998/10k (49.98%)
Time Left: 32+ days

#3 Ghostbusters Proton Pack - $400 - FUNDED
Backers: 7081/7k (101%)
Time Left: 37+ days
Exclusives: Pulse Premium Members who order in first 48hours get four 1984-inspired green ecto-plasm goo attachment accessories


When it was announced, I would not have guessed that the proton pack would be the first to unlock and so quickly at that.  There must be a lot of ghostbusting people out there starved for nice things.  Interesting to see the Skystriker and Rancor kind of hanging around 50%.  Skystriker has definitely slowed but Rancor got a nice little boost with the reveal today. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on November 5, 2021, 08:10 PM
Not being a 6" collector, I'm tempted to buy the rancor as a standalone display piece just for its wow factor. But with so many nice big stuff for TVC, I really need to keep my focus on the heritage line.

Prior to the announcement of the rancor, I was expecting the Haslab project to be the Mandalorian Gauntlet Fighter https://www.starwars.com/databank/the-gauntlet. I would seriously go ape**** if that was produced.



Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 27, 2021, 11:57 PM
Not sure if this was talked about already… but would you buy a large scale AT-M6, say… $450?

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 28, 2021, 01:03 PM
Not sure if this was talked about already… but would you buy a large scale AT-M6, say… $450?

Not really.  I personally am satisfied with all the different flavors of AT-AT, Big AT-AT, AT-ACT, etc. that we've received over the years. 

I'd rather they do something all new that we don't have any modern version of - Ghost, Hoth Troop Transport, etc.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 29, 2021, 11:30 AM
Lots of good ideas, I still would like a TVC Heavy Shuttle from Rogue One.  I highly doubt it could get a decent retail release and not many outside the collecting community would want it.  Stretch goals could be members of the Rogue One crew we either have not received yet or specially carded versions of ones we do have.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 29, 2021, 03:26 PM
I'd pay good money for a new Y-Wing or B-Wing, and I'd buy several of them (and probably wouldn't be alone). I feel like Haslab could start producing some smaller—but still big—items from time to time. A Y-Wing in a decent scale would probably be around the size of the Naboo Starship toy.

The Transformers Victory Saber was $175, so I can't imagine they couldn't run a TVC Haslab that runs cheaper than the $350-500 range.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on November 29, 2021, 05:51 PM
Yup, I've been wanting a new y-wing for some time. Scaled to the TVC x-wing this would make a good Haslab item. No electronics... offer them in different deco... I'm in for a few.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on November 30, 2021, 03:40 AM
Give my left nut for a 1/18 UWing.  Not truncated but a true 1/18.  It’s mostly wing so like a tie fighter it’s reasonable, and it should be bigger than the larger ships they’ve done already (that are undersized) so it wouldn’t make them look off or anything.

I’m to the point though, big ships kinda need to be pretty damn special because the barge and RC will be absolute hogs together in anyone’s collection.  Something would probably have to go, or go into storage ultimately.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on November 30, 2021, 06:45 AM
For sure our first modern OT Y Wing would get me to bite.

It's a bit of a sea change at all that a one man fighter now qualifies as a Big Item, but I get it, things have dramatically changed.

I think a proper U Wing would be too big for me unless it was going to be the anchor of a Rogue One collection, which it would certainly could, I just don't want to commit to a Rogue One permanent display. This would be the kind of HasLab that would hang on its stretch goals and the whole package for me to bite.

The At M6 holds no interest for me...if they had done anything other than just stand in the distance, maybe...but there just isn't anything exciting about it for me, I would pass.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 30, 2021, 10:46 AM
I hear you guys, I guess I just hope that HasLab doesn't become a way for them to do re-sculpts of existing vehicles.  I iike it for big stuff that just can't get done in the regular line. 

Y-Wing's and B-Wing's should just get made the same way the X-Wing and Slave I were over the last few years.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 30, 2021, 11:00 AM
I hear you guys, I guess I just hope that HasLab doesn't become a way for them to do re-sculpts of existing vehicles.  I iike it for big stuff that just can't get done in the regular line. 

Y-Wing's and B-Wing's should just get made the same way the X-Wing and Slave I were over the last few years.

I agree.  While the current U/Y/X/B-wings are scaled down and not perfect, they're pretty darn good as toys. 

I would be far more interested in a totally new expensive item like The Ghost vs. an expensive Y-Wing.  I can easily find room for an all new item while I'd have to think quite a bit about buying a better, larger iteration of something I've already got.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 30, 2021, 12:07 PM
Give my left nut for a 1/18 UWing.  Not truncated but a true 1/18.  It’s mostly wing so like a tie fighter it’s reasonable, and it should be bigger than the larger ships they’ve done already (that are undersized) so it wouldn’t make them look off or anything.

I’m to the point though, big ships kinda need to be pretty damn special because the barge and RC will be absolute hogs together in anyone’s collection.  Something would probably have to go, or go into storage ultimately.

I'm holding out hope that the ANDOR series will prominently feature the U-Wing.  I've heard it said in a lot of the BTS features that Lucasfilm actively works to have a library of digital models on hand, and re-using the U-Wing would seem to make sense in Cassian Andor's story.  But then there's the matter of how does Hasbro do it?

Like you said, a lot of the U-Wing is WING.  I think the main hull of the ship can be upsized to something like the current, bigger version of Slave I.  That would almost certainly allow for the two seat cockpit and the troop bay.  Putting the wings on when the customer assembles the ship seems like a reasonable thing to do.


I also had an idea for a Haslab, unrelated to this - the LAAT/C (Republic Gunship AT-TE carrier) with an AT-TE.  Clone Wars still has such a strong fandom, and it's crossing over into The Vintage Collection with greater regularity.  This could be one of those dream releases that Haslab was designed to take on.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 30, 2021, 01:45 PM
I'm holding out hope that the ANDOR series will prominently feature the U-Wing.

Ditto for me.  That would be a great excuse for Hasbro to do an all-new HasLab U-Wing.  Toss in pre-release TVC versions of Baze and Bohdi as a couple of the Tiers.

I also am hoping for the same on The Ghost.  If it makes an appearance in the Disney+ Ahsoka show, perfect time to get a HasLab Ghost going.  Tiers could be pre-release versions of TVC Sabine and TVC Hera.   ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on November 30, 2021, 02:29 PM
I would be super excited to back a Ghost. My son used to use my BMF as the Ghost when he would play Rebels with the figures he had, to have one finally get produced would be a big deal in our house.

I would also back a Twilight in a second should it reappear and become relevant at some point.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 30, 2021, 03:06 PM
I also had an idea for a Haslab, unrelated to this - the LAAT/C (Republic Gunship AT-TE carrier) with an AT-TE.  Clone Wars still has such a strong fandom, and it's crossing over into The Vintage Collection with greater regularity.  This could be one of those dream releases that Haslab was designed to take on.

I would welcome this, but they will need to re-release the AT-TE if the Haslab would just be the Dropship.  I can't see them doing a Haslab for two vehicles.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 30, 2021, 04:21 PM
If they do a U-Wing, my only request is rigid plastic that won't bend and sag for those wings. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ryan on December 1, 2021, 04:08 AM
I think a better scaled U-Wing (with rigid wings like Rob mentioned) would be my number one request for the next offering. I could get down with a scale X-Wing or Y-Wing through Haslab, but I would have prefer them updated main line. Even if that meant the scale was a bit off.

Outside the U-Wing I think the next items on my list would be realistic versions of either The Bad Batch shuttle or The Ghost from Rebels. Nothing in the Sequel Trilogy would really excite me enough to back it, or give up the space in collection room.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on December 1, 2021, 06:49 AM
I honestly think that the U-Wing should be a mainline / fan channel release.  When I see the TVC Slave One in stores, I get the sense that the U-Wing would work in a mainline release.  A mainline release, like a Rebellion, is built on hope!

As for my LAAT/C / AT-TE Haslab idea?  I think it has to be offered with BOTH vehicles.  The AT-TE was originally released in 2008.  And frankly, I think it would need to be retooled or reinforced in order to work with the carrier.  It's a dream idea, but one that I think could get support from both TVC fans as well as what appears to be a very strong Clone Wars fan base.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on December 1, 2021, 08:14 AM
Oh totally would go ape**** for a TVC U-Wing! Yeah, I'd say I would back Y,B or U wings in a Haslab and definitely support them being added to the main line, but they NEED to be scaled up from their current molds.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on December 1, 2021, 08:52 AM
Put me in the camp that thinks upscaled U/Y/B Wings would be cool but is just fine with what we have at least from a Haslab perspective.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on February 10, 2022, 11:22 AM
Was talking with a friend this morning and wanted to ask the questions here too...  seeing what you get for $230 with the Jabba's TBOBF Throne Room, how are you guys feeling about a Death Star Playset?

- Would you want to spend $1k on a similar set that was like 4 of the Throne Room sets stacked on top of each other (thinking along the lines of the Kenner DS set)?  I'm hoping it'd be way less than $1k since there wouldn't be 4x the accessories of the Throne Room, but still it's gonna cost a LOT if they go this route.

- Would you want any DS Playset to be more modular and something in-between the $50 walls and the $230 Throne Room - like $100 trash compactor, $60 Conference Room, $250 full Detention Cell level with cells, etc?  Then you can pick and choose what to buy/skip.

- Have you come to the realization that this stuff is just trending too expensive and not worth it anymore?  Like $50 for a Tantive Hallway is one thing, but $250+ for a diorama is crazy?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on February 10, 2022, 11:31 AM
I’d like less accessories and less detail and a lower price for the jabba play set.  I’ll buy it but wish they would cut some things out and make it less expensive.

I’m okay paying a bunch for a Death Star play set but the value needs to be there. Details can be simplified but I do want at least a few of those options you mentioned.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 10, 2022, 12:19 PM
Based on a response from Emily during the fan site Q&A, it sounds like this high end playset concept is being tested on the palace diorama.  They want to see how it performs, including the Hasbro Pulse direct sales model, before committing to more big projects.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 10, 2022, 12:57 PM
If they keep them sized to fit on a 12" deep shelf, I'd buy almost anything like this.  Echo Base, Hoth, Cantina, Death Star... Bring it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 10, 2022, 01:20 PM
I like the Jabba's Palace playset even if I think the $230 is a bit on the high side.  I would love to see what they could do with a Death Star playset similar to my Kenner Death Star playset.  Modular floors similar to the floors of the Kenner set could be incredible, but it will be expensive.  Perhaps release them a floor at a time could be a little easier on the wallet....granted is was 44 years ago, but the original Death Star playset retailed for $12.  No way we're getting this for less than $250 per floor unless Hasbro finds a way to balance price and detail.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on February 10, 2022, 01:21 PM
Was talking with a friend this morning and wanted to ask the questions here too...  seeing what you get for $230 with the Jabba's TBOBF Throne Room, how are you guys feeling about a Death Star Playset?

- Would you want any DS Playset to be more modular and something in-between the $50 walls and the $230 Throne Room - like $100 trash compactor, $60 Conference Room, $250 full Detention Cell level with cells, etc?  Then you can pick and choose what to buy/skip.


Modular sets are the Way. Keep them adjustable and modular to fit the needs of many different customers.

I would really like a death star hangar that can be modded to fit one TIE and a tech crew, but also maxed out  by stacking and stretching the build to fit an an imperial shuttle and a formation of troops. Plus I want all the other stuff Jeff mentioned.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ryan on February 10, 2022, 04:58 PM
But as long as they keep bring out quality pieces at at least somewhat fair prices, I'm down. Judging kind of off my Lego buying habits and some electronic purchases, I'd have a real hard time justifying much more than $500.00-$750.00 the purchase of a single toy, no matter how cool. Haslab items might be enough to entice me if there are other great pack-ins, but at the end of the day $1000+ for a hunk of plastic is in the shape of the Death Star would be a real tough one to swallow for me. That's not a hard no, it just would mean that piece would instantly have to be worth of being one of the centerpieces of my entire collection.

I definitely agree with the modular sentiment, it makes it easier to stomach and I can skip the parts that whether don't fit on a shelf or are the least important to me.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Brian on February 10, 2022, 09:25 PM
Was talking with a friend this morning and wanted to ask the questions here too...  seeing what you get for $230 with the Jabba's TBOBF Throne Room, how are you guys feeling about a Death Star Playset?

- Would you want to spend $1k on a similar set that was like 4 of the Throne Room sets stacked on top of each other (thinking along the lines of the Kenner DS set)?  I'm hoping it'd be way less than $1k since there wouldn't be 4x the accessories of the Throne Room, but still it's gonna cost a LOT if they go this route.

- Would you want any DS Playset to be more modular and something in-between the $50 walls and the $230 Throne Room - like $100 trash compactor, $60 Conference Room, $250 full Detention Cell level with cells, etc?  Then you can pick and choose what to buy/skip.

- Have you come to the realization that this stuff is just trending too expensive and not worth it anymore?  Like $50 for a Tantive Hallway is one thing, but $250+ for a diorama is crazy?

This is exactly what I’ve been thinking about lately. I preordered the Throne Room today as soon as it was available, but I’m really starting to consider the prices (and storage/display footprint) of everything I get. We all keep saying it, but prices are creeping with all lines, all properties, all companies and it is really forcing us to make tougher choices.

Just the last couple weeks I saw some of the newer MOTU Revelations Masterverse figures, and the inclination is to grab them right away. Then I consider that I spent the last year plus grabbing most of the Origins line. And years before that a pretty good run on Classics. How many lines covering the same characters do I really need to collect?

Same could be said for Star Wars. Although I’m not a completist, I buy some or most of each of their lines. Black Series. Vintage Collection. Retro. I love them all, but don’t have room for everything. Most of my Black Series is packed away other than one shelf of about a dozen figures representing the OT, and the same for Mando. Things would be so much easier if I only collected one thing 🙄

But yes, price is definitely becoming a factor…and getting worse. As excited as I would be if they announced some form of Death Star playset like this, I would be holding my breath waiting for the price. I know I personally couldn’t just drop $800-$1000 on a toy.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: EdSolo on February 11, 2022, 06:44 AM
If I were still in the game, I would have definitely purchased this item.  I like to see it set up with the other Jabba display from a few years ago.  I would want it more for a Jabba display as opposed to a Boba Fett display.  $1000 would be steep for a Death Star.  $230 seems to be a lot for this set.  It does have a bunch of accessories, but I'm not sure it justifies the price.  With the current rate of inflation, we might be seeing increases of this nature.  Unfortunately, once Hasbro raises prices, that becomes the new normal regardless of the economy.  I think figure prices have gone down only once since the POTF2 days.

I think any Death Star playset would come through Haslab.  They are going to want a winner after the Rancor fiasco.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on February 11, 2022, 11:03 AM
Based on the size (large, and movie set-accurate) of the Jabba's Throne Room, I could see individual rooms from the Death Star coming in this range. Places like the control room with the red computer, the detention block area, the conference room, etc. I can easily see each one of those areas being a $200 Pulse set. Sure, give them a similar footprint to make them stackable for those who want to build a Death Star tower, plan that in, why not?

But they are missing out on serious scratch if they don't try to do a Death Star Hallway in the $50 retail range and make it in a very similar vein to the Tantive IV Corridor from last year, leaning more into the modularity. Make it able to be open or enclosed, infinite in series, able to do 90 degree turns or 4 way junctions. Then make sure that set can connect between the big ones so crazy people can build them out like the enormous train displays of the previous generation. I have no doubt these would sell 'til the molds break--I have been selling modular Cardboard Galaxy Death Star hallway pieces for over 2 years now and they always sell out when I put a batch up.

However they put out a Death Star set, I will turn up with money in hand.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on February 11, 2022, 11:25 AM
Based on the size (large, and movie set-accurate) of the Jabba's Throne Room, I could see individual rooms from the Death Star coming in this range. Places like the control room with the red computer, the detention block area, the conference room, etc. I can easily see each one of those areas being a $200 Pulse set. Sure, give them a similar footprint to make them stackable for those who want to build a Death Star tower, plan that in, why not?

I'm not sure I want a 100% movie accurate representation of the Death Star.  Maybe its the nostalgia for the vintage DS where you get elements of the Death Star all kind of wrapped together in a fun playset that isn't close to movie accurate. 

I like the elevator tying together a few different levels from DS1 and DS2 - Trash Compactor on bottom, Detention Center one floor up, maybe a chasm, or random troop area on the third floor, and the DS2 Throne Room on top. I think they need to keep it around 20" in total height so it can fit in display cabinets.  It'd be nice if it were totally modular and they offered different options, with a mirroring capability so you could have an elevator on each end and connect two sets in the middle.  If that were the case you could make additional modules like a conference room, gunner station, etc.  If they're smart they'd make the elevator modular too so you could make the set as short or tall as you wanted.

Heck, I'd be okay if they combined elements of a Star Destroyer with the Death Star and OT and PT - mixing in Vader's meditation chamber, a flight control pit, TFA interrogation chamber, Kylo Ren's quarters, etc..

But they are missing out on serious scratch if they don't try to do a Death Star Hallway in the $50 retail range and make it in a very similar vein to the Tantive IV Corridor from last year, leaning more into the modularity.

Totally agree.  Death Star / Star Destroyer / Scarif hallway is a no brainer.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2022, 11:32 AM
Emily from Hasbro was already fielding questions about "What's Next" for this deluxe playset concept.  And she gave a great answer - they want to look at locations that are connected to strong story moments that might be populated with multiple characters.  The palace (Jabba's, Bib's or Boba's) fits that bill.  And it sounds like the Cantina is a prime candidate, too.  From a design standpoint, they were saying that the depth of the playset is a consideration that factored into the planning of the palace playset.  They were cognizant of the depth of standard shelving and designed it accordingly.

If I were to bet on this range of playsets going forward?  I would say the Cantina is in a prime position.  It's so beloved by Star Wars fans, and it's transcended the fandom to become an iconic cinematic moment.  And then it has turned up again in The Mandalorian twice.  And given Obi-Wan's line to Luke on the streets of Tatooine that "This place can be a little rough", I get the distinct impression that it could come into play in the upcoming Obi-Wan Kenobi series.

Other scenes that fit that criteria?  A Star Destroyer bridge - see every Imperial figure you own, Darth Vader and the bounty hunters to fill it out.  Someone mentioned the throne room from the second Death Star.

I agree with Muftak about sections of the Death Star.  That's one place where I think the $50 playset range can offer up a lot of different scenes, offer up an army builder figure, and have the playsets interact with one another.
-DETENTION BLOCK HALLWAY - make the POTF2 version look like trash and take this one, complete with a cell.  Pack-in figure - Imperial Navy Trooper
-DEATH STAR CORRIDOR - Basic corridor with the light panels and a blast door.  Pack-in figure - Imperial Stormtrooper

Those two seem like the no-brainers.  Do they go with a location like the DS Overbridge?  Or a gunners station?  Those are a departure from the hallway concept that worked for the Tantive IV.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2022, 11:43 AM
The best part about a potential Cantina playset is that they'd probably revisit that scene for new figures to go with it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2022, 11:59 AM
It sounds like the palace is going to be that kind of a centerpiece for planning the basic figure line going forward.  It's an opportunity to make some figures that work in conjunction with that location, between ROTJ and TBOBF.

That's something that did actually happen, albeit to a limited extent, following the release of the Sail Barge and the Jabba's Palace Adventure set.  We got 8 figures that work in conjunction with those settings.  There were a couple of figures released that work with the Carbon Freeze Chamber.  We got those Rebel Fleet Troopers that would fill out the Tantive IV hallway.  And there are the TVC deluxe releases that will work with the Nevarro Cantina, as does the Walmart exclusive Death Star Droid.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2022, 01:02 PM
There was a Death Star droid in the Navarro Cantina?   I haven’t watched it in awhile and am fuzzy on the details.  I wouldn’t mind grabbing an extra to put there if that’s the case.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 11, 2022, 01:51 PM
There was a Death Star droid in the Navarro Cantina?   I haven’t watched it in awhile and am fuzzy on the details.  I wouldn’t mind grabbing an extra to put there if that’s the case.

Chapter 7 of The Mandalorian (season 1).  The droid is tending bar when Greef Karga brings Mando in to the Client.

There's another one in Chapter 16 walking around on Moff Gideon's light cruiser.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 11, 2022, 02:03 PM
Brilliant.  Thanks!  I should start paying more attention for stuff like that since Hasbro doesn’t do a lot of background stuff these days.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on February 11, 2022, 02:27 PM
I want the cantina owned by Maz Kanata just so we can get those aliens.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on February 11, 2022, 02:34 PM
I want the cantina owned by Maz Kanata just so we can get those aliens.

1000% yes!  Hasbro will never do it, but that would be fantastic. 

Maybe Hasbro's logic will allow us to get an Ewok Villiage.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on February 11, 2022, 02:52 PM
The best part about a potential Cantina playset is that they'd probably revisit that scene for new figures to go with it.

*nods in agreement*

Mos Eisley Cantina with TVC pack-in Garouf Lafoe.  Then work Tzizvvt, Solomahal, and Reegesk into the TVC basic line.  Then give us a EE exclusive TVC Ackmeena.  Then give us a fan channel carded figure 3-pack of Baniss Keeg, Arliel Schous, and Yerka Mig.  Then give us an Amazon 4-Pack of TVC carded Ponda, Greedo, Momaw, and Takeel in Kenner deco colors.  And a Hasbro Pulse 6-pack of Cantina Band Members using the new TVC Figrin D'an figure as the base.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 12, 2022, 04:21 PM
Basically agree with all the thoughts presented so far…

I’d love a Cantina in some form or other.  The Palace was a must buy when I saw it, and far more appealing to me as a display for Jabba goons than the barge is.  It makes me seriously consider selling my barge to be honest. 

The Navarro cantina is something of a letdown to me, but a Mos Eisley Cantina in a similar format to this Palace would be slick.  I too would like something like a Destroyer bridge like this.  So far all the playsets they’ve done have hit clearance… pretty steeply too.  While it’s cool for stocking up, it’s making me wonder how this Palace is gonna turn out.  I think if they do smaller runs it may sell out and that would be kinda funny to me given how much fit throwing I’ve read about the price. 

It’s a really nice looking “centerpiece” type or product though.  Much more than just a playset, but a real eye catcher on a display wall. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on February 12, 2022, 06:27 PM
I saw a social media post from Jayson that the preorders for the Throne Room were already 1/3rd of the way to the sold out milestone.  I'd love to hear what those numbers are, but I also understand the need to protect sources.

I think that looking at movie scenes where we already have a number of existing figures from that source material could point us in some interesting directions.  There's a great database at the Galactic Figures site that breaks movie scenes down with characters that can be slotted into those.
https://galacticfigures.com/MovieScenes

Clearly, the Cantina is one of the top scenes in terms of the number of distinct characters that have been made into figures.  And from the standpoint of a locale that is key in moving the story forward, the Cantina is as strong of a setting as you're going to get.  Next would probably be Jabba's palace and the Sail Barge.  But with a bunch of these settings where there's a large number of characters that have existing figures, they're just talking - the Jedi Council chambers, Yavin briefings, the Home One briefing from ROTJ, etc.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on February 13, 2022, 07:56 AM
I saw a social media post from Jayson that the preorders for the Throne Room were already 1/3rd of the way to the sold out milestone.  I'd love to hear what those numbers are, but I also understand the need to protect sources.

Over on Rebelscum someone has been looking at the Pulse order page's source code and gleaned the available quantity was 19,750 with around 7,500 preordered so far. I think that is where numbers are coming from at this point. 20,000 sounds like a realistic MOQ for the set judging by where successful HasLabs have been landing recently.

When I shored up what my OT collection was going to be back in 2008 I broke them down by scene to make themed shelf displays for them all. I wound up with basic scenes: Cantina. Tatooine Desert, Hoth, Cloud City, Death Star/Star Destroyer, Home One, Yavin, Jabba's Palace. I wound up skipping Dagobah and Endor because I just didn't have enough figures for those spots to justify the space. But some of those other environments wound up being pretty big because so many figures needed to fit there. A Cantina playset designed with all the released figures in mind will be really big as a shelf display--I solved this by doing the bar as one shelf and the booths and alcoves on a different one.

The weird thing about this Throne Room is most of the display space in the set is behind the throne. It will look weird, but probably you can keep most of the "floor" figures on display in the Barge if you have that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on February 13, 2022, 05:41 PM
I would consider that fairly insanely low for a Star Wars item that required massive tooling investment (if that is the case).  That’s much more in the realm of what “boutique” toy line runs are like.  And they often do sell out.  Would be curious how it compares to the other sets out.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on February 14, 2022, 02:09 AM
I would consider that fairly insanely low for a Star Wars item that required massive tooling investment (if that is the case).  That’s much more in the realm of what “boutique” toy line runs are like.  And they often do sell out.  Would be curious how it compares to the other sets out.

Really?  I don't know if I'd say insanely low for a big ticket item like this. I know these are Haslab numbers, but 20k seems like it's right in the range of other big new development projects.

Marvel Galactus 32k
Razor Crest 28k
Marvel Sentinel 22k
-------TBOBF Throne Room 20k -------
GIJoe Skystriker 16k
Transformers Unicron 10k
Khetanna 9k

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 14, 2022, 11:34 AM
I feel like the Sarlaac would be a great environment, since it "connects" with the Sail Barge and Skiff(s), with all the figures related to that. It also appears in new media (BOBF), and Return of the Jedi's 40th anniversary is next year.

My other choice would be the Emperor's throne room, since we just got a new Emperor for that, along with the window. It's super toyetic (all of Luke and Vader's 3rd act action was here), and it could be an avenue for them to "complete the 96" by including Sim Aloo, who would absolutely tank of pegs by himself.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on February 14, 2022, 12:46 PM

My other choice would be the Emperor's throne room, since we just got a new Emperor for that, along with the window. It's super toyetic (all of Luke and Vader's 3rd act action was here), and it could be an avenue for them to "complete the 96" by including Sim Aloo, who would absolutely tank of pegs by himself.

I agree the Emperor's Throne Room would be a great set to get out there, but I fear at even the $250 pricepoint we wouldn't get much of the Room.

It doesn't really go with a lot of figures, but I can attest to its play value as when I made my tiny Cardboard Galaxy version, my then 8 year old son commandeered the prototype so he could have Vader and Luke fight all day long, going up and down the stairs. Something about the dual level design makes it extremely toyetic and inviting for play!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on February 14, 2022, 12:48 PM
Unfortunately the Throne Room probably only has five figures that interact with it during the movies.  I'd love to see this element built in to a Death Star playset, but I'm really not that interested on its own.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 14, 2022, 12:52 PM
I feel like the Sarlaac would be a great environment, since it "connects" with the Sail Barge and Skiff(s), with all the figures related to that. It also appears in new media (BOBF), and Return of the Jedi's 40th anniversary is next year.

I'm in for this if the Sarlaac has tentacles that can hold my TVC Slave One over it.   :D

Unfortunately the Throne Room probably only has five figures that interact with it during the movies.  I'd love to see this element built in to a Death Star playset, but I'm really not that interested on its own.

I really like this idea!  I still this the different modular pieces could be lower in price compared to the Jabba/Boba Fett throne room because of the more sterile/utilitarian environment but it would probably be the same price if not more.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: JediJman on February 14, 2022, 12:52 PM
Unfortunately the Throne Room probably only has five figures that interact with it during the movies.  I'd love to see this element built in to a Death Star playset, but I'm really not that interested on its own.

+1  I want playsets that let me stash a lot of different figures in there.  Cantina, Sandcrawler, Rebel Briefing, Ewok Village, Echo Base, etc.  Jabba's Throne room is ideal, though even that I'm a little less interested in because of the barge.  I wouldn't want a big playset for Dagobah or Emperor's Throne Room or Ahch-To Island because I'm only going to dedicate a few figures to something that takes up a big chunk of space.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 14, 2022, 12:55 PM
Remember that guy (I think he was somewhere in South America) that made that huge 3.75" scale Sandcrawler?  I'd love Hasbro to do something like that!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 14, 2022, 01:01 PM
Remember that guy (I think he was somewhere in South America) that made that huge 3.75" scale Sandcrawler?  I'd love Hasbro to do something like that!

Michael Fright!

https://michaelfright.com/star-war-model-sandcrawler/

He also made a Rebel Blockade Runner that was scaled to 3.75" scale that he hauled around on a flatbed semi. 

https://michaelfright.com/worlds-largest-starwars/
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 14, 2022, 01:38 PM
Thanks Rob!  I knew I could count on you to dig this up!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on February 14, 2022, 01:41 PM
Remember that guy (I think he was somewhere in South America) that made that huge 3.75" scale Sandcrawler?  I'd love Hasbro to do something like that!

Michael Fright!

https://michaelfright.com/star-war-model-sandcrawler/

He also made a Rebel Blockade Runner that was scaled to 3.75" scale that he hauled around on a flatbed semi. 

https://michaelfright.com/worlds-largest-starwars/
Legend.

How about an Endor Bunker?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 14, 2022, 01:49 PM
Unfortunately the Throne Room probably only has five figures that interact with it during the movies.  I'd love to see this element built in to a Death Star playset, but I'm really not that interested on its own.

+1  I want playsets that let me stash a lot of different figures in there.  Cantina, Sandcrawler, Rebel Briefing, Ewok Village, Echo Base, etc.  Jabba's Throne room is ideal, though even that I'm a little less interested in because of the barge.  I wouldn't want a big playset for Dagobah or Emperor's Throne Room or Ahch-To Island because I'm only going to dedicate a few figures to something that takes up a big chunk of space.

I don't know, just looking at my throne room setup, I have the Emperor, Mara Jade, the Dignitaries, Xizor, two Royal Guards, Luke and Darth Vader.

Luke and Vader are in three mini-scenes: clashing lightsabers, Luke on the ground while Vader throws the Emperor, and the Darth Vader unmasking (which admittedly doesn't happen in the throne room).

And that's all on a small shelf. If I had a larger display for the throne room, I would probably use it as more of an Imperial display, when my son wasn't having Luke and Vader battle it out.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on February 14, 2022, 01:53 PM
Remember that guy (I think he was somewhere in South America) that made that huge 3.75" scale Sandcrawler?  I'd love Hasbro to do something like that!

Michael Fright!

https://michaelfright.com/star-war-model-sandcrawler/

He also made a Rebel Blockade Runner that was scaled to 3.75" scale that he hauled around on a flatbed semi. 

https://michaelfright.com/worlds-largest-starwars/

Rob, thank you for this link. I thought his work had been lost to the ages, but it seems like I can reacquaint myself with this stuff. I'm going to check out his comment section first, to see what others are saying.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on February 14, 2022, 02:00 PM
Reading those comments it seems like the bots really appreciate his blog!

What a blast from the past!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on February 14, 2022, 06:35 PM
 :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 14, 2022, 01:29 PM
Anybody got insight in to when Hasbro may take another shot at a Star Wars Haslab item (hopefully 3.75") now that the Reva lightsaber has not funded. 

Jeff, Jayson - anyone have any inside scoop on timing?  Maybe around conventions this summer, or are we going to have to wait until a bit in the future.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on July 14, 2022, 02:17 PM
Anybody got insight in to when Hasbro may take another shot at a Star Wars Haslab item (hopefully 3.75") now that the Reva lightsaber has not funded. 

Wasn't the Boba Fett's/Jabba's Throne supposed to be a Haslab that wasn't?  I thought there were pics that has Haslab printed on them, but they decided to go the way they did with it.  If it was supposed to be one, perhaps there will be a bit of a delay until that one is released.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 14, 2022, 03:10 PM
Wasn't the Boba Fett's/Jabba's Throne supposed to be a Haslab that wasn't?

Yeah, there was a lot of speculation that it was a Haslab that was promoted to a regular release.  Hasbro's official line is that it was always meant to be a Hasbro Pulse exclusive product.  However, a lot of the non-US order info kept calling this a "crowd funded" item.  Here was a pic form Jayson's twitter:

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FLWfzNQaUAElM8B.jpg)

Your guess is as good as mine on the real story.  I've heard so many different excuses - some people think Hasbro moved it to Pulse as a safety net after the Rancor failure; others think it got promoted based on how successful the other TVC Haslabs were and the fact it's OT in nature.  It does seem like it started out as a crowd funding idea though or else why would all the non-US marketing stuff say that?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 15, 2022, 10:18 AM
Looking at the past five HasLab projects:

Project  Status
Black Series Reva (The Third Sister) Force FX Elite Lightsaber  FAIL
G.I. Joe Classified Series Cobra H.I.S.S.  Funded!
Marvel Legends HasLab Ghost Rider: Engine of Vengeance  FAIL
HEROSCAPE AGE OF ANNIHILATION: Vanguard Edition  50% with 13 hours left
Transformers Generations HasLab Deathsaurus  81% with 27 days left

That's not exactly a smashing success rate.  Hasbro went 7-for-8 on the first 8 projects (RIP Cookie Monster) but they are tracking to go 4-for-8 on the last 8 projects (RIP Rancor, Reva Saber, Ghost Rider, and probably Heroscape).

Seems like it's time for another Star Wars 3.75" HasLab if you ask me...  Hasbro could use a HasLab win and I could use a Mos Eisley Cantina, Death Star, or Krayt Dragon or something...

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on November 15, 2022, 11:29 AM
The first HasLabs out of the gate (Cookie Monster aside) were all the gimmes.

This latest wave has been HasLab proving it's worth to Hasbro. Imagine if HasLab didn't exist and they went ahead and did the Ghost Rider Car as a standard release and lost a ton of money on the deal because the value proposition on that one was horrible. They are saving a ton of money throwing these ideas out there  with minimal development involvement and seeing that nothing is sticking.

I don't think they are trying to have a perfect record, they have this minimal-risk option now to see if they can grab a bunch of money, without the years long development and retail risk. I hope they are breathing a sigh of relief when they don't have to ship 20,000 $500 lightsabers on an untested (and ultimately disliked) character at Lucasfilm's insistence, and then only selling 1,000.

There are still a couple 3.75" Star Wars gimmes: If they want something to succeed, the Cantina is there for the making. I'd love to see a Death Star but that is such a dicey proposition, no two fans have the same idea what it should be. The Cantina translates much easier as a massive display/playset.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 15, 2022, 12:07 PM
Did Ghost Rider even come close?  I wasn't tracking that one.

Sometimes I think they're too insistent on a really high price point when some of their ideas and the execution just isn't worth it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 15, 2022, 12:53 PM
They are saving a ton of money throwing these ideas out there  with minimal development involvement and seeing that nothing is sticking.

I don't think they are trying to have a perfect record, they have this minimal-risk option now to see if they can grab a bunch of money, without the years long development and retail risk.

See, that is what annoys me.  HasLab should be "fans keep asking for X, how can we do that" not "would you guys buy this if we make it?"  I want HasLab to be a pathway to dream projects, not a free focus group for Hasbro.

HasLab projects should be "gimmies" in the sense that they are things a fan base has been asking for. It should be a chance for collectors to put their money where their mouth is.  "You guys keep saying you want X, but it'll cost $xxx to make it - do you still want it?"  The Sail Barge fit that to a T and seemed like the perfect way to launch HasLab.

3.75" Mos Eisley Cantina or Death Star playsets are excellent candidates to continue that spirit.   Reva's lightsaber or Ghost Rider car were not.

I feel like the Rancor is a great test case of that.  It was totally a "would you guys buy this if we made it?"  It was designed to make Hasbro money, hence the repacks of Jedi Luke and Gammorean.  If it was a "fans keep asking for X, how can we do that" type thing designed for fans, then it would have included 'obvious' figures like 6" Oola and 6" Malakili from the start.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 15, 2022, 01:00 PM
I feel like the Rancor is a great test case of that.  It was totally a "would you guys buy this if we made it?"  It was designed to make Hasbro money, hence the repacks of Jedi Luke and Gammorean.  If it was a "fans keep asking for X, how can we do that" type thing designed for fans, then it would have included 'obvious' figures like 6" Oola and 6" Malakili from the start.

Spot on. 

If they want it to make gobs of money they should do what they did with Jabba's Palace and make it a commercial release throw in a bunch of worthless doodads and crank up the price.

If they want it to be collector dream projects (and still make money) it needs to be totally focused on fanboy/girl wants without worthless pack-ins.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 15, 2022, 04:26 PM
Cantina play set with Tonnika Sisters.

30,000 backers easily.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on November 15, 2022, 07:34 PM
Would people be interested in TVC vehicles from concept art? Nothing large; maybe a bundle of 2 or 3 different mid-size ships and figures.

I like what Galoob did with their Phantom Menace Alpha Action Fleet line.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 15, 2022, 10:46 PM
If it’s McQuarrie concept art, I’d be all about it.  Not so interested in more recent concept stuff.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 16, 2022, 10:06 AM
Cantina play set with Tonnika Sisters.

30,000 backers easily.

I could see Hasbro releasing the Cantina the same way they're doing the Jabba's / Bib's / Boba's throne room.  I think the longer duration of that sales model would be a better fit for the Cantina.

As for a new Haslab project for Star Wars?  I absolutely agree - it needs to be something that fans are clamoring for.  Or something that they didn't realize that wanted.

The right timing might have saved both the Rancor and the Reva lightsaber.  But then the Rancor rollout was like a case of watching a monkey trying to **** a football.  Hasbro couldn't get out of their own way.  SOMEBODY at Lucasfilm should have told them to wait for 6 months.  And the stretch goals were both uninspired and a clear illustration of how cheap Hasbro has become.

I honestly don't know what Hasbro might consider for a future Haslab campaign.  My own ideas?

THE VINTAGE COLLECTION
-SOLO Millennium Falcon - based on the TLC / TVC BMF Millennium Falcon.  Update the existing Falcon with SOLO deco, some breakaway panels to show the damage incurred during the Kessel Run.  Add the escape pod.  And update the interior to reflect the important spaces seen in SOLO.

-Imperial Lambda class shuttle.  This ship was a star of Return of the Jedi.  But more recently it got some serious play in THE MANDALORIAN.  And while it's been reissued twice in the modern era, the tooling is still straight out of 1983.  The cockpit needs to be completely redone, as does the rest of the interior.

-The Ghost.  This seems like more of a longshot since REBELS is more of a niche than the films or the live action Disney+ shows.  But if it turns up in the AHSOKA series?  That might give it a serious shot.


THE BLACK SERIES
I'm struggling to think of a dream item for The Black Series that might be a fitting offering for a Haslab campaign.  Some people have pitched an X-Wing, but it would be absolutely enormous!

I think if anything, Hasbro might want to look to the action figure photography movement for some kind of a scene / setting that would showcase figures in iconic moments.  Lightsaber duels come to mind for me.

-MUSTAFAR DUEL SCENE - the battle of the heroes scene seems like a possibility.  If it could be the lava river (it should light up) with the bank and the hoverplatform and panning droid?  That plus scene specific versions of Darth Vader and Obi-Wan Kenobi would be excellent.  Stretch goals might be Vader in flames, the Emperor, the medical capsule and Shock Troopers.

-DEATH STAR DUEL SCENE - The rematch from ANH.  Vader vs Obi-Wan.  Include Imperial hallways, the blast door, as well as the empty cloak and Obi-Wan's lightsaber. 

-CLOUD CITY DUEL SCENE - the gantry.  Vader vs Luke.  Include scene specific Vader and Luke - Vader's shoulder scorched from where Luke hits him, and Luke beat up.  Include the gantry.  Stretch goal could be a background.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 16, 2022, 10:50 AM
To me Ghost is a perfect Haslab candidate.  A big, risky item that fans clearly want and they’d need to secure preorders for to get funding.  Obviously it depends on the production threshold, but I think it would make it’s number pretty easily unless they set it absurdly high.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on November 16, 2022, 11:15 AM
Does the Ghost have a TVC crew? Do they come with it?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 16, 2022, 11:26 AM
Does the Ghost have a TVC crew? Do they come with it?

Clearly none of the Ghost crew has been produced in TVC.  But we know that Sabine Wren plays a part in the upcoming AHSOKA series.  And at Star Wars Celebration a teaser trailer for AHSOKA showed a live action Hera Syndulla.  I think she's being played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead.  But whoever plays her, where Hera goes, so goes the Ghost!  I think that both of them are likely to be in TVC for the AHSOKA series.  So that's a first step.  As for the rest of the crew? Well...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 16, 2022, 11:33 AM
Imperial Shuttle would be great, and you could make an argument for buying more than one.

There's a seller online that created some modular Ewok village parts, where you could mix and match and create an Ewok village that fits your own display area. I'd love to see Hasbro create some scene builder things like that. Smaller, but with the option to buy many of them to create customized displays. Kind of like the Spacewalls, which were awesome, but pretty much went nowhere once they partnered with Hasbro.

I like the idea of a Haslab Millennium Falcon, but I don't think Solo would get people to jump. But maybe a larger, fully new Millennium Falcon, at the same quality level as the Razor Crest and Khetanna could be an option. I love the Legacy Collection Falcon, but I would back a larger and more detailed Falcon in a heartbeat.

I'm also a big fan of a slightly smaller Haslab that could support army building. An all-new Y-Wing, (more) properly scaled would be a dream come true, and I would buy at least four. It's large, but the back part would be pretty cheap since it's all open. I'd jump at a B-Wing as well.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 16, 2022, 12:05 PM
To me Ghost is a perfect Haslab candidate.  A big, risky item that fans clearly want and they’d need to secure preorders for to get funding.  Obviously it depends on the production threshold, but I think it would make it’s number pretty easily unless they set it absurdly high.

Bingo.  The Ghost would be perfect for this.

You've already got a TVC Ashoka that you could tweak and card, but then add in Hera, Sabine, and Chopper (maybe Zeb if he is still around too, and I guess ideally we'd see Kanan and Ezra in a TVC style).  You could release slightly different versions of these figures later to the general masses and double dip.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Keonobi on November 16, 2022, 09:11 PM
How about a TIE Defender? Though it would likely lead to some folks buying multiples, then again it might be harder to get the balance right from a value proposition perspective on a smaller ship.

Similar to The Ghost, The Twilight is another option that probably missed its timing from a supporting media point of view.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 17, 2022, 07:03 AM
I'd happily back either a Ghost of TIE Defender.

There are so many possibilities with the Ghost.  Ghost crew on special cards and also release them in the main line on regular cards.  Make it compatible with the Phantom that was released when the show was airing?

A TIE Defender could have a lot of potential.  Special carded Thrawn?  Maybe some other Imperials from Rebels in TVC format? 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 17, 2022, 10:20 AM
-The Ghost.  This seems like more of a longshot since REBELS is more of a niche than the films or the live action Disney+ shows.  But if it turns up in the AHSOKA series?  That might give it a serious shot

To me Ghost is a perfect Haslab candidate.  A big, risky item that fans clearly want and they’d need to secure preorders for to get funding.  Obviously it depends on the production threshold, but I think it would make it’s number pretty easily unless they set it absurdly high.

Yeah, if Ghost turns up in the Ahsoka show with Hera/Sabine, I think that's a gimme.  Rebels was really popular, Ghost was in so many episodes and featured heavily, Ahsoka would give it a reason to come back around.

They can do TVC realistic versions of Chopper, Hera and Sabine from Ahsoka as the tiers and then re-issue slightly tweaked versions of those same figures in the mainline for the double-dipping they enjoy so much.  Then they can do Zeb as a $26 "deluxe" world building guy with some excuse about how he's bigger or whatever (I think they pulled that with the 6" line Zeb too).

Make it compatible with the Phantom that was released when the show was airing?

I don't know if I like that.  I'd hate to compromise the scale/size of Ghost to accommodate the old Phantom.  I'd rather they just build a new one into a HasLab Ghost.  There are probably plenty of people who didn't buy that tiny Phantom and would skip this if it has a gaping hole/spot where it was supposed to go.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 17, 2022, 10:56 AM
I just wonder how big the Ghost would have to be. Could they do it justice? I know it's roughly Millennium Falcon sized, but there are a bunch of areas to create, including sleeping quarters, cargo hold, cockpit area. I guess it could work, but it would need to be much larger than the Razor Crest I'd think. Plus you'd need the Phantom, and that thing wasn't even small, since they could fit several people in there. That alone would probably need to be around the size of the Imperial Troop Transport.

I'm all for the Ghost, but I just worry about how many corners they'd have to cut to actually make it, and would that turn people off so it doesn't end up backing? I don't think TVC can risk a Haslab failure.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 17, 2022, 10:58 AM
Make it compatible with the Phantom that was released when the show was airing?

I don't know if I like that.  I'd hate to compromise the scale/size of Ghost to accommodate the old Phantom.  I'd rather they just build a new one into a HasLab Ghost.  There are probably plenty of people who didn't buy that tiny Phantom and would skip this if it has a gaping hole/spot where it was supposed to go.

Good point.  The original was a fun toy, but pretty basic.  If the scale and price allowed it would be great to get at least a retooled version (or all new) that had a lot more detail on it.

Agreed they would have to take some liberties on scale and areas that they included.  An actual to scale Ghost with sleeping quarters, cargo hold, etc. would be way too big.  I'm fine with that though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 17, 2022, 11:52 AM
How about a TIE Defender? Though it would likely lead to some folks buying multiples, then again it might be harder to get the balance right from a value proposition perspective on a smaller ship.

Similar to The Ghost, The Twilight is another option that probably missed its timing from a supporting media point of view.

I think the TIE Defender is an excellent idea!  And one that could be done at a lower price point than the larger vehicles.  Include the pilot from the start.

Stretch goals?
-Service gantry
-Removable hyperdrive (as seen in REBELS)
-Vult Skerris figure


I also really like the idea of the Twilight as a Haslab.  Love for Clone Wars only seems to keep growing.  And that ship would be BIG!


As for a ship that doesn't need to be done as a Haslab campaign?  How about a blue & white repaint of the CLONE WARS Y-Wing?  It played such a pivotal role in the finale of CLONE WARS, "Victory & Death".  And it turned up again in TALES OF THE JEDI.  It could also be a way for Hasbro to FINALLY get TVC Captain Rex in his phase 2 armor right.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 17, 2022, 03:51 PM
I might be the only one but the TIE Defender was a design that never did anything for me.  I thought it was clunky and silly looking and felt like a boring attempt to just do more TIE's. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 17, 2022, 05:17 PM
I might be the only one but the TIE Defender was a design that never did anything for me.  I thought it was clunky and silly looking and felt like a boring attempt to just do more TIE's.

I'm in the same boat.  We've got plenty already - standard TIE (in a variety of flavors), Darth Vader's, TIE Bomber, First Order TIE. 

If they're going to do a new TIE I would prefer it was the Moff Gideon's Outland TIE, but I think the price point is off.  I can't imagine paying much more than $100 for a fancy TIE and HasLab items seem to be $250 minimum.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on November 17, 2022, 05:51 PM
I can't imagine paying much more than $100 for a fancy TIE and HasLab items seem to be $250 minimum.

Considering the recent round of X-Wings were $100-110 (with only Poe's X-Wing new; Luke and Merrick's were repaints) and the Mando N-1 is rumored to be around $140, there is no chance a TIE Defender would be less than $150 in the current environment.

With that in mind, and the fact that the GI Joe Skystriker was a $230 HasLab project, I think it's realistic for Hasbro to try and go $200-250 for something like a newly scaled/tooled B-Wing or a Y-Wing or TIE Defender.  Which is CRAZY.  But that's where we are, I guess.  :-\

I don't think I'd bite on a $200-250 Y-Wing when the version I already have isn't terrible.  I'd prefer the HasLabs to stick with things we don't have yet.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: McMetal on November 17, 2022, 06:06 PM
Man, I would still love to get the Twilight one day but for sure I would back the Ghost. Lots of great Tier options there.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 17, 2022, 11:14 PM
Agreed Jeff.  Haslab shouldn’t be for updates to popular OT vehicles that have sold well in various forms for 40 years.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 18, 2022, 11:33 AM
After this week's episode of ANDOR, I'm kind of wanting a Fondor haulcraft!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jesse James on November 19, 2022, 10:03 PM
I’d be cool with a TIE Defender but it’s kinda obscure at this point imo.  I mean I love it but Rebels isn’t very current and TIE Fighter even less so.  I dunno what is good to rally behind besides Cantinas and Death Stars… Cantina in the realm of the JP is what I’d probably prefer right now, just personally.  But I’m open to whatever they’d throw at us I guess.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 21, 2022, 05:44 PM
I'd much rather go all-in on a re-release of the TIE Interceptor. I only have one of those from the new tooling, and I'd like a couple more.

The first time we saw the TIE Defender was in that Rebel Assault game in the '90s, right? I kind of felt like "toss another wing on there" was in full effect with that design, but Rebels definitely did make it seem cooler. No one can convince me the TIE Crawler isn't a crappy design though.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on November 22, 2022, 02:30 PM
On a related note, I've been thinking lately about the lack of small / medium vehicles in the line.  Not the speeder bikes, but the landspeeders and starfighters.  And it's gotten me thinking about vehicles that would be good offerings in The Vintage Collection.

There are a number of vehicles that have been made over the years in various 3.75" figure lines, but not in the level of detail that TVC seems to be capable of producing.  Jedi starfighters come to mind.  So do some OT vehicles like Darth Vader's TIE or an update to the Y-Wing or A-Wing.

And then there are some vehicles that have never been made before.  One that came to mind is the Clone version of the Z-95.  And of course, Mando's N-1 starfighter,

I'm curious what other vehicles people might want to see if Hasbro should bring back vehicles in a meaningful way.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on November 22, 2022, 03:43 PM
I'm curious what other vehicles people might want to see if Hasbro should bring back vehicles in a meaningful way.

As much as I love the hyper detailed Razor Crest, Imperial Assault Combat Tank, and to some degree the Imperial Troop Transport - I hope they don't go back and redesign all the Jedi Starfighters, etc. and "re-release" them at a $100 price point.

I'd rather see as many all new vehicles as possible.  I'd rather see a Fondor Haulcraft, a Quad Jumper, or Rebel Transport, or something a little more obscure introduced then an upgraded something I've already got.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 22, 2022, 04:05 PM
I'd much rather go all-in on a re-release of the TIE Interceptor. I only have one of those from the new tooling, and I'd like a couple more.

The first time we saw the TIE Defender was in that Rebel Assault game in the '90s, right? I kind of felt like "toss another wing on there" was in full effect with that design, but Rebels definitely did make it seem cooler. No one can convince me the TIE Crawler isn't a crappy design though.

Sure, but that's an easy update to a really good existing mold.  That's not a "big items of the future" / Haslab style thing.  They could do that so easily if they wanted to bother.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 22, 2022, 10:59 PM
I’m still holding out hope for an Imperial Cargo Shuttle from Rogue One that would have the rest of the Rogue One crew as stretch goals.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ryan on November 23, 2022, 02:36 AM
I’m still holding out hope for an Imperial Cargo Shuttle from Rogue One that would have the rest of the Rogue One crew as stretch goals.

Ooooo. That'd be a great one I hadn't really considered. If they put it out, they'd have the orange crates from the hovertank to pack-in as well. Hasbro would also be able to rerelease any of the crew members individually in the main line down the road. Just give them a slightly different accessory or cardback in the Has-Lab version and some people would even double dip.

For me, I'd be most likely to back a project from the OT, Rogue One, Andor, The Mandalorian, or the 3-D Animated series. I'd be much pickier projects from Solo, the Prequel, or Sequel trilogies.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 23, 2022, 07:17 AM
For me, I'd be most likely to back a project from the OT, Rogue One, Andor, The Mandalorian, or the 3-D Animated series. I'd be much pickier projects from Solo, the Prequel, or Sequel trilogies.

I'd back one of those walkers from TLJ...imagine it being scaled to the Legacy AT-AT?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on November 23, 2022, 09:56 AM
It’d be the size of a horse.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 23, 2022, 01:41 PM
I'd much rather go all-in on a re-release of the TIE Interceptor. I only have one of those from the new tooling, and I'd like a couple more.

The first time we saw the TIE Defender was in that Rebel Assault game in the '90s, right? I kind of felt like "toss another wing on there" was in full effect with that design, but Rebels definitely did make it seem cooler. No one can convince me the TIE Crawler isn't a crappy design though.

Sure, but that's an easy update to a really good existing mold.  That's not a "big items of the future" / Haslab style thing.  They could do that so easily if they wanted to bother.

Yeah, I got off topic because I was looking at the interceptor and got all gushy about it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 23, 2022, 10:22 PM
It’d be the size of a horse.

And I would be ok with that.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 25, 2023, 01:59 PM
Looking at the past five HasLab projects:

Project  Status
Black Series Reva (The Third Sister) Force FX Elite Lightsaber  FAIL
G.I. Joe Classified Series Cobra H.I.S.S.  Funded!
Marvel Legends HasLab Ghost Rider: Engine of Vengeance  FAIL
HEROSCAPE AGE OF ANNIHILATION: Vanguard Edition  50% with 13 hours left
Transformers Generations HasLab Deathsaurus  81% with 27 days left

That's not exactly a smashing success rate.  Hasbro went 7-for-8 on the first 8 projects (RIP Cookie Monster) but they are tracking to go 4-for-8 on the last 8 projects (RIP Rancor, Reva Saber, Ghost Rider, and probably Heroscape).

Seems like it's time for another Star Wars 3.75" HasLab if you ask me...  Hasbro could use a HasLab win and I could use a Mos Eisley Cantina, Death Star, or Krayt Dragon or something...

Since the last update:
- Heroscape = FAIL
- Deathsaurus = Funded!
- Dragonfly = Funded!
- The Ghost = Funded!

Looks like HasLab's win percent is 72% (13/18 - RIP Cookie Monster, Rancor, RevaSaber, GhostCar, Heroscape).  And, by my count, the Dragonfly HasLab pushed Hasbro over $75million in funds raised from campaigns over the years (not counting any added tax or shipping).


After a third successful 3.75" scaled Star Wars HasLab, what do you think Hasbro does next?

- do they get bolder with big money non HasLab things (like the $230 Throne Room playset) and offer a few more direct to Pulse?
- do they go right back to the HasLab well with another 3.75" SW next year?
- do they give non-3.75" SW another HasLab try?  And if so, what do you pick that is popular enough for what it'll cost?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 25, 2023, 04:11 PM
The Rancor could've been successful if they hadn't botched the campaign so badly.  Marvel has had two large scale figures in the Sentinel and Galactus and they were smashing successes.

The Reva Saber was never going to make it because Force FX sabers are just s niche market to begin with.  That would've been better as a straight pre-order like Jabba's Boba Fett's Throne Room.

That being said, it's obvious that TVC is a winner for Haslab...they're three for three!  I would expect something in TVC for the next couple of Star Wars Haslabs.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 25, 2023, 04:25 PM
After a third successful 3.75" scaled Star Wars HasLab, what do you think Hasbro does next?

- do they get bolder with big money non HasLab things (like the $230 Throne Room playset) and offer a few more direct to Pulse?
- do they go right back to the HasLab well with another 3.75" SW next year?
- do they give non-3.75" SW another HasLab try?  And if so, what do you pick that is popular enough for what it'll cost?

I don't really understand the calculus they use(d) to decide what goes the route of HasLab and what goes straight to market (e.g. BoBF Throne Room).

I think a Death Star, if its done in affordable modular bits, would be a no brainer for a direct to market item.  It they wanted to do a fully integrated big ass expensive playset they could always go HasLab.  I'm just not sure anyone at Hasbro has the balls to make bets anymore on something without HasLab to backstop their decision making process.

I honestly think they should just stick with 3.75" things.  There are plenty of cool things they could do and there is no reason to deviate.

The Rancor might have worked if they provided more value from the get go, but by the time they tried to recover from their disastrous rollout it was too late. 

All of the 3.75" items funded without much effort.  Keep it simple and keep making TVC items we want.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 25, 2023, 04:36 PM
Just because TVC Haslabs are three for three does not make it a good idea for Hasbro to try and do a TVC Haslab every year.  I would be hard pressed to support a Haslab while still waiting on another to arrive and that would happen if they try a TVC Haslab every year.

Space them out a bit, try another Black Series next year (mid sized vehicle of some sort).  Then after the Ghost has shown up at the homes of everyone who has backed it, think about dropping a TVC Haslab after that...or do something smaller scale using the pre-order route first.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 25, 2023, 05:02 PM
Agreed that they don't need to do a TVC HasLab on an annual basis.  But I also don't believe they should be doing SW HasLab annually either, especially if they don't have good ideas that are likely to fund from other areas of SW collecting. 

Doing an every other year HasLab TVC would be great as far as I'm concerned.  And they don't have to be $500.  Maybe a HasLab every other year and a direct to market on the odd years would be great.

There are plenty of good ideas that could fill the next decade.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 25, 2023, 06:22 PM
Yeah, every other year is ideal.  Also imagine getting items this large every single year?! 

After this one I'll be hard pressed to find space for things that size.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 25, 2023, 06:32 PM
I'd love to see a playset with modularity to it so people can choose to go broad, or longer and narrower.  Something like a Death Star or Ewok Village would be great.  Finding a shelf large enough for The Ghost is going to be a challenge.  I've got 18 months to figure it out, but right now I'm not sure where to put it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 26, 2023, 09:13 AM
Also imagine getting items this large every single year?! 

I don't need something as large as the Ghost every year.  I do think if they manage it right, they can alternate Hasbro Pulse exclusive and HasLab exclusive yearly to crank out a lot of high demand items.  Put the $100-$250 items at Hasbro Pulse with a long-lead pre-order.  Put the riskier $250-$500 items at HasLab.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Mister Skeezler on July 26, 2023, 10:09 AM
I'd like some slightly smaller, slightly cheaper items that encourage multiple purchases, like Hasbro did with the HISS tank. Something like the Y-Wing or B-Wing would be great, but I'm sure there are plenty of other options. That I could see annually. I'd easily buy 3-4 Y-Wings if they were to-scale (or at least much closer) and around $175-$250.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on July 26, 2023, 11:53 AM
I think every 3 years for a large vehicle / item on par with the BMF Falcon, Sail Barge, Razor Crest or Ghost might be a manageable schedule for collectors.  Maybe even something like the unproduced POTF2 Death Star!  I know some pics of that have been circulating around social media in the past day or so.

But I think getting 1 ship per year that's a bit beyond the size of a starfighter would be welcome.  Something that's priced between $150 and $250, give or take.  Things like a larger U-Wing or Luthen's Fondor Haulcraft come to mind.  Maybe Ahsoka's T-6 shuttle.

As for large items that could make a future Haslab?  These come to mind:
-Death Star playset (large)
-Imperial Lamda class shuttle - redone from the ground up
-Millennium Falcon - SOLO deco
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 26, 2023, 12:47 PM
-Millennium Falcon - SOLO deco

Here I am trying to figure out how to downsize the number of BMFs I have open (ANH, ESB, SWGE/ST) and Nick's over here trying to add one more to my collection.   ;D

At least if they go that route, it'd increase the chances of them finally giving us TVC versions of L3-37, Rio, Val, Beckett, Qi'ra, Dryden Vos, etc.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 26, 2023, 01:13 PM
Maybe even something like the unproduced POTF2 Death Star!  I know some pics of that have been circulating around social media in the past day or so.

I have been obsessing over a sketch Jayson did of a potential Death Star Haslab mockup he saw, which has led me to looking up all the Death Star prototypes over the years...so that was probably my doing!

But for the record, I would much rather have the POTF Imperial Outpost as a future project if we are picking between cancelled playsets.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 27, 2023, 08:44 AM
I have been obsessing over a sketch Jayson did of a potential Death Star Haslab mockup he saw

Do you have a link to share?  Interested to see which rumored version this is...
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 27, 2023, 09:15 AM

Do you have a link to share?  Interested to see which rumored version this is...

He posted it here:

https://forum.rebelscum.com/threads/the-ghost-8-561-backers.1151891/page-9 (https://forum.rebelscum.com/threads/the-ghost-8-561-backers.1151891/page-9)

It's about the middle of the page.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on July 27, 2023, 09:29 AM
He posted it here:

https://forum.rebelscum.com/threads/the-ghost-8-561-backers.1151891/page-9 (https://forum.rebelscum.com/threads/the-ghost-8-561-backers.1151891/page-9)

Ah, the mega-set version.  If Hasbro finally finds the guts to do that version as a HasLab, it'd set the collecting world on fire - the size of that thing, the high price tag it likely has.

If they did announce it though, I'd be right there with my $1,000 to back it.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on July 27, 2023, 02:21 PM
Why would you need Vader's meditation chamber?  That was on his Star Destroyer.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on July 27, 2023, 02:25 PM
I'm sure he has to meditate all over the galaxy. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on July 27, 2023, 02:32 PM
Why would you need Vader's meditation chamber?  That was on his Star Destroyer.

In the scenes cut from the beginning of Return of the Jedi, the first place Vader goes upon his arrival at Death Star II is his meditation chamber.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on July 27, 2023, 04:20 PM
Why would you need Vader's meditation chamber?  That was on his Star Destroyer.

In the scenes cut from the beginning of Return of the Jedi, the first place Vader goes upon his arrival at Death Star II is his meditation chamber.

Isn't the "Meditation Chamber" the first place everyone goes after a long flight?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2023, 04:46 PM
They could certainly cut a few sections out to save a few bucks.  Sure I'd spend $1000 on the mega set, but I'd prefer if they scaled it back a bit to something in the $400-600 range, or made it modular so you could buy it in chunks over a few years. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jedi Idej on August 3, 2023, 10:27 AM
Something like the Y-Wing or B-Wing would be great

Yes! I hoped this would be a Haslab project a couple of years ago, in scale with the x-wing. (1:18 would be over 4'.) There could be different color options.

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: P-Siddy on September 2, 2023, 08:50 AM
After the Ghost, I'd really like Hasbro to have mini-Haslabs that focus on never-before-made figures multipacks that wouldn't sell well at retail.  Have a focus on Jabba's Skiff/Barge guards, Cantina denizens, characters that interacted with the Razor Crest, characters that interacted with The Ghost, Jedi, Ewoks, Partisans... the possibilities are endless.  Make the packs on cards (like the 3 packs we've been getting) but put them in the $100-150 range (for 4-5 figures).  They could do this a couple times a year, once during a big Haslab campaign, and I think collectors would be for that.  But I know I'm only dreaming.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Ryan on September 3, 2023, 02:30 AM
After the Ghost, I'd really like Hasbro to have mini-Haslabs that focus on never-before-made figures multipacks that wouldn't sell well at retail.  Have a focus on Jabba's Skiff/Barge guards, Cantina denizens, characters that interacted with the Razor Crest, characters that interacted with The Ghost, Jedi, Ewoks, Partisans... the possibilities are endless.  Make the packs on cards (like the 3 packs we've been getting) but put them in the $100-150 range (for 4-5 figures).  They could do this a couple times a year, once during a big Haslab campaign, and I think collectors would be for that.  But I know I'm only dreaming.


I do like that idea, too. It would be a good way to get some of the deeper cut figures on our wishlists. It's not the TLC/TAC days anymore. I feel like this may be one of the only remaining avenues to get some of the more unique background characters.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on September 3, 2023, 06:22 AM
Add my voice to the choir that's saying the perfect Haslab project doesn't exist.  Because at this point the fandom is so generationally segmented that it's quite difficult to get to a consensus on a large project.  And I tend to bristle when I see someone throw out "Everyone would back this", because in reality it's something that THEY would back, but one person cannot possibly speak for the entire collecting community.

The concept of mini-Haslab "Figure Dream Packs" has been circulating on social media for some time now.  When I first heard the idea pitched over at the TVC FB group I was repulsed - figures should either be mainline offerings or MAYBE a store exclusive.  But if you look through the character lineups of the past 3 years or so, the focus is SO narrow.  The line doesn't have anywhere near the richness in terms of the range of characters now that it had in those 30AC and Legacy Collection days.  So in that respect I'm warming up to the idea a bit more. 

But I also think that Hasbro could be smarter and do coordinated releases - like the recent run of Tuskens!  Releasing Tusken Boba Fett along with the Warrior, plus the Tusken troop builder 4-pack was the right way to portray that setting from TBOBF.  On that note, the one playset that I've seen a lot of consensus building around has been the Cantina.  And I think something along the lines of the Throne Room could be the way to go.  And if Hasbro was going to release a few Cantina aliens?  Coordination of that release with a possible Cantina seems like it would be the way to go.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on September 3, 2023, 09:15 AM
After the Ghost, I'd really like Hasbro to have mini-Haslabs that focus on never-before-made figures multipacks that wouldn't sell well at retail.  Have a focus on Jabba's Skiff/Barge guards, Cantina denizens, characters that interacted with the Razor Crest, characters that interacted with The Ghost, Jedi, Ewoks, Partisans... the possibilities are endless.  Make the packs on cards (like the 3 packs we've been getting) but put them in the $100-150 range (for 4-5 figures).  They could do this a couple times a year, once during a big Haslab campaign, and I think collectors would be for that.  But I know I'm only dreaming.


I’m 1000% behind this.

Haslab doesn’t have to be $500 items.  It could be things that they wouldn’t put in a store, to test out sales before hand.  Let’s see if an Imperial Dignitaries 5-Pack would sell or not!
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Muftak on September 3, 2023, 10:23 AM
After the Ghost, I'd really like Hasbro to have mini-Haslabs that focus on never-before-made figures multipacks that wouldn't sell well at retail.  Have a focus on Jabba's Skiff/Barge guards, Cantina denizens, characters that interacted with the Razor Crest, characters that interacted with The Ghost, Jedi, Ewoks, Partisans... the possibilities are endless.  Make the packs on cards (like the 3 packs we've been getting) but put them in the $100-150 range (for 4-5 figures).  They could do this a couple times a year, once during a big Haslab campaign, and I think collectors would be for that.  But I know I'm only dreaming.


I’m 1000% behind this.

Haslab doesn’t have to be $500 items.  It could be things that they wouldn’t put in a store, to test out sales before hand.  Let’s see if an Imperial Dignitaries 5-Pack would sell or not!

You say you are 1000% behind the idea, but at what pricepoint does your enthusiasm wane? 5 figures for $150 is premium for sure, but really not that far off from the World Building pack prices, so i am kind of skeptical that it would land there as a low-run, all new tool figure pricepoint. Would $50 or $60 apiece figures still be appealing if they are doing 5,000-10,000 figure runs?

And fanboys love stretch goals, how would that even be approached on such a set?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: GrandMoffNick on September 3, 2023, 10:37 AM
Muftak said exactly what I was thinking. Nothing but new tooled figures would be amazing but no chance they are close to only $30 each.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on September 3, 2023, 11:02 AM
IMHO, the figure multi-pack idea should be HasbroPulse exclusives, not HasLab. 

They could do an all-new fan-channel exclusive Sim Aloo on a ROTJ card to "complete the 96" and then do a troop builder 4-pack of Dignitaries on HasbroPulse with 4 new heads and the same robed body.  Nothing is stopping them from doing that but their own internal budget and their skewed view of what collectors "want".

If they can do a Jabba Goon 4-pack with two new human guards, a new Tessek, and a repack Ree-Yess, then they can do a Cantina carded 4-Pack with all-new Tzizvvt, Wuher, Hammerhead, and a repack Ponda Baba.  Nothing is stopping them from doing that but their own internal budget and their skewed view of what collectors "want".

HasbroPulse is a perfectly good avenue for things that would be "retail poison". 

ps.  I'm spinning this off to the general HasLab thread since it really has nothing to do with The Ghost. ;)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on September 3, 2023, 12:24 PM
Good idea about spinning off!  And the more I think about the concept, the more I think the model should be based on the Jabba's / Bib's / Boba's palace than a Haslab.  Lock people in a year in advance for a premium item like this, but don't model it like a crowd funding project.  Because then I think you might diminish the Haslab brand.

So then it would boil down to:
-How many figures do you include in this kind of offering?
-What is the pricing for a special run of figures like this?

Hasbro Pulse does seem to be the ideal setting for something like this because it's direct from Hasbro.  And that changes the financial structure of the whole program since it *might* allow for higher costs per figure, but Hasbro would be getting the full retail price on each transaction, and not the wholesale price that mainline figures will earn them from the retailers.

I'm thinking these might be "Magic Numbers":
-PRICE - $120
-6 FIGURES
-$20 / figure

I also think these should be made with a theme, and possibly in conjunction with a major release, like a significant vehicle / playset / Haslab release.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on September 3, 2023, 02:37 PM

You say you are 1000% behind the idea, but at what pricepoint does your enthusiasm wane? 5 figures for $150 is premium for sure, but really not that far off from the World Building pack prices, so i am kind of skeptical that it would land there as a low-run, all new tool figure pricepoint. Would $50 or $60 apiece figures still be appealing if they are doing 5,000-10,000 figure runs?

And fanboys love stretch goals, how would that even be approached on such a set?

It definitely depends on what it is.  There’s no reason figures in this format need to cost significantly more than they would at retail.  The idea is that they start with guaranteed sales so it’s easy to green light obscure stuff that way.  I’ve been collecting one of everything for nearly 30 years, so it would have to be pretty damn extreme for me to pass on figures in any format.  That said I’m an outlier and if it was way overpriced it just wouldn’t successfully fund.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 3, 2023, 04:24 PM
Hasbro could do the figure packs you're thinking of without a Haslab....it could be an exclusive pre-order like the Jabba's Boba Fett's Throne Room.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on October 30, 2023, 02:44 PM
Looking at the past five HasLab projects:

Project  Status
Black Series Reva (The Third Sister) Force FX Elite Lightsaber  FAIL
G.I. Joe Classified Series Cobra H.I.S.S.  Funded!
Marvel Legends HasLab Ghost Rider: Engine of Vengeance  FAIL
HEROSCAPE AGE OF ANNIHILATION: Vanguard Edition  50% with 13 hours left
Transformers Generations HasLab Deathsaurus  81% with 27 days left

With the Ghostbusters PKE Meter/Ghost Trap 2-pack hitting it's base funding goal this afternoon (after only ~70 hours), I thought I'd pull this up for an update.  After the rough patch above (3 fails out of 5 projects in 2022), HasLab has had a much better run in 2023 - 4/4 so far.

Project  Status
G.I. Joe Classified Series G.I. Joe Assault Copter Dragonfly (XH-1)  Funded! (248% of goal)
Star Wars The Vintage Collection The Ghost  Funded! (272% of goal)
Marvel Legends HasLab Giant-Man  Funded! (139% of goal)
Ghostbusters Plasma Series HasLab Two in the Box! Ghost Trap and P.K.E. MeterBase Package Funded with 42 days left to hit tiers...

Note quite an apples to oranges comparison of course (BS6 in 2022, TVC in 2023; Modern Marvel character in 2022, Classic Marvel character in 2023) but nice to see HasLab have a bit more success this year. 
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on October 31, 2023, 09:21 AM
When was the Skystriker?  Was that already two years ago?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on October 31, 2023, 09:47 AM
When was the Skystriker?  Was that already two years ago?

Yes - Rancor, Skystriker, Proton Pack were all Dec 2021.  Time flies when you're having fun!

HasLab by year:

2018 - 1/1 Funded: Sail Barge
2019 - 1/2 Funded: Unicron (FAIL: Cookie Monster)
2020 - 2/2 Funded: Razor Crest, Sentinel
2021 - 4/5 Funded: Galactus, Victory Saber, Skystriker, Proton Pack (FAIL: Rancor)
2022 - 2/5 Funded: HISS Tank, Deathsaurus (FAIL: Reva Saber, Ghost Rider, Heroscape)
2023 - 4/4 Funded: Dragonfly, The Ghost, Giant-Man, PKE/Trap
Title: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: P-Siddy on December 30, 2023, 07:07 PM
Someone posted a list of their desired Haslabs on anotheR Site, which Jayson made the comment that one will be the next Haslab.

List below:

Episode I: Naboo Royal Starship
Episode II: LAAT/C Gunship Carrier
Clone Wars: Twilight
Episode III: Turbo Tank
Bad Batch: Havoc Marauder
Solo: Lando's Millenium Falcon
Obi-Wan Kenobi: Inquisitor Shuttle
Andor: Luthen Rael's Fondor Haulcraft
Rogue One: U-Wing
Episode IV: Mos Eisley Cantina
Episode V: GR-75 Medium Transport
Episode VI: Imperial Lambda Class Shuttle
Mandalorian: Mandalorian Gauntlet Assault Craft
Book of Boba Fett: Boba's Rancor
Ahsoka: Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle
Episode VII: First Order Troop Carrier

Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: P-Siddy on December 30, 2023, 07:21 PM
Personally, I think it would be down to one of these (as much as I'd like the cantina):
Bad Batch: Havoc Marauder (The Marauder would finish off the Bad Batch (since I believe Hasbro said they'd finish the team)).
Andor: Luthen Rael's Fondor Haulcraft
Rogue One: U-Wing
Mandalorian: Mandalorian Gauntlet Assault Craft
Ahsoka: Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle


Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: Muftak on December 30, 2023, 09:14 PM
That someone was JD regular Nicklab.

For my money, it's the Havoc Marauder. I suspect Hasbro has left the Bad Batch team AWOL in TVC in hopes of fitting them into the budget via crowdfunding like they did with the Rebels crew. Hunter was an exception because his armor can be repurposed.
Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: Nicklab on December 31, 2023, 05:59 AM
Someone posted a list of their desired Haslabs on anotheR Site, which Jayson made the comment that one will be the next Haslab.

List below:

Episode I: Naboo Royal Starship
Episode II: LAAT/C Gunship Carrier
Clone Wars: Twilight
Episode III: Turbo Tank
Bad Batch: Havoc Marauder
Solo: Lando's Millenium Falcon
Obi-Wan Kenobi: Inquisitor Shuttle
Andor: Luthen Rael's Fondor Haulcraft
Rogue One: U-Wing
Episode IV: Mos Eisley Cantina
Episode V: GR-75 Medium Transport
Episode VI: Imperial Lambda Class Shuttle
Mandalorian: Mandalorian Gauntlet Assault Craft
Book of Boba Fett: Boba's Rancor
Ahsoka: Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle
Episode VII: First Order Troop Carrier



LOL, that was me!  I threw a lot of $**t at the wall, and something might have stuck.  So when Jayson confirmed that Hasbro was looking at one of these as a possible Haslab I wasn't terribly surprised.

Out of the whole list I think you can narrow this down to 5 or 6 that have better odds than the others.  As for when it might happen?  Your guess is as good as mine.  One thing that I will say from the outset is that it would be nice if Hasbro delivered the Ghost before launching another TVC  Haslab campaign.

Beyond that?  I'm of the opinion that vehicles that have been made before in the modern era might get struck from the list.  That would eliminate:
Episode I: Naboo Royal Starship
Episode III: Turbo Tank
Solo: Lando's Millenium Falcon
Rogue One: U-Wing
Episode VI: Imperial Lambda Class Shuttle


So then I think it might come down to relevance.  Which of these has NOT appeared in entertainment within the past 2-3 years?
Episode II: LAAT/C Gunship Carrier
Clone Wars: Twilight
Episode V: GR-75 Medium Transport
Episode VII: First Order Troop Carrier


That would leave:
Bad Batch: Havoc Marauder
Obi-Wan Kenobi: Inquisitor Shuttle
Andor: Luthen Rael's Fondor Haulcraft
Episode IV: Mos Eisley Cantina (also appears in season 1 and 2 of The Mandalorian)
Mandalorian: Mandalorian Gauntlet Assault Craft
Book of Boba Fett: Boba's Rancor
Ahsoka: Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle


So what are potentially the weakest selections on that list of seven?  I would eliminate the Inquisitor shuttle and Boba Fett's Rancor.  We never see the interior of the Scythe class shuttle.  And after the failure of the Black Series Rancor Haslab, I can't see Hasbro offering ANOTHER Rancor Haslab.  Beyond that?  What might be an item that Hasbro would NOT want locked behind a Haslab paywall?  For me that's the Cantina.  I could see that being offered like the TVC Jabba's / Bib's / Boba's throne room.  But I do see the potential where Hasbro might consider offering a Cantina denizen figure dream pack as a lower cost Haslab.

With all of that criteria taken into account I think it would narrow the field to include:
Bad Batch: Havoc Marauder
Andor: Luthen Rael's Fondor Haulcraft
Mandalorian: Mandalorian Gauntlet Assault Craft
Ahsoka: Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle

What other possible criteria could cut a vehicle from Haslab consideration?  I do see the potential where Hasbro might not want to lock the Gauntlet behind a Haslab paywall.  And that's because Gauntlets show up in multiple media, and they're numerous.  There are a number of them in the Mandalorian fleet in The Mandalorian season 3.  Would Hasbro want to deny themselves the potential for multiple sales per customer?

So, I think it might come down to these three:
-Havoc Marauder (The Bad Batch)
-Fondor Haulcraft (Andor)
-T-6 Shuttle (Ahsoka)

The third and final season of The Bad Batch is reportedly coming towards the end of 2024.  Would there be sufficient support for a Havoc Marauder?  That's unclear.  Especially since Hasbro has only offered one member of Clone Force 99 in The Vintage Collection.  Everything else in TVC has been another Clone, and not a member of the Bad Batch.  Would Hasbro do what they did with the Ghost and offer the team in conjunction with a Haslab campaign?  The precedent is there.  And if Hasbro waits to launch the campaign after they deliver the Ghost, then the Havoc Marauder might be more topical.

That would leave the Fondor Haulcraft and Ahsoka's T-6 as the remaining ones to consider.  We've just come off of the AHSOKA series season one, and I think the support would be there.  And if we're looking at the criteria of what might be timely after the Ghost gets delivered?  ANDOR season 2 looks like it's coming in 2025.  The Fondor haulcraft is likely to return.  So the potential for it to be topical is substantial.

I'm interested to hear what other people think.  Because my methodology could be off here.  And it's definitely worth people voicing their own opinions here in the spirit of dialogue.
Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: P-Siddy on December 31, 2023, 09:27 AM
That someone was JD regular Nicklab.

Cool!  My friend texted screenshots, but it didn't have the poster's name on it.
Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: Nicklab on December 31, 2023, 10:47 AM
Credit goes to Jayson for tipping people off to what Hasbro might be considering.  But he didn't narrow it down because no doubt he doesn't want to burn his source(s).  I just threw out a bunch of ideas that *MIGHT* be plausible.
Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: Dave on December 31, 2023, 07:18 PM
I've got some items on this list that I hope they do with the Fondor Haulcraft at the top of the list, although I don't need a $350+ version.  Maybe something more in the $200 range. 

Although I have a feeling it will be the Cantina.  I'd be pretty excited about that if its done well, and not just a bunch of pillows and bar glasses.  I've got a pretty nice one that I've put together from all the bar pieces over the years, so this isn't at the top of my list, but I think Hasbro would be wise to keep their offerings largely in the OT.

I'm not sure Ahsoka's T-6 Jedi Shuttle or the Bad Batch Havoc Marauder are that high on my list.  Neat ships, but I'm not sure I would drop $400 on these and find space in my collection for them.

Either way, I'm assuming we're still 18 months from a new Star Wars TVC HasLab campaign.  Or are they going to finally get smart and drop their attempts at BS and role play items?  Maybe that will mean they'll try and do TVC more often?
Title: Re: Re: Future HasLab Ideas
Post by: Qui-Gon Jim on January 2, 2024, 07:12 AM
I think the Lambda-class shuttle is the most likely item from this list.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on January 2, 2024, 06:05 PM
Someone posted a list of their desired Haslabs on anotheR Site, which Jayson made the comment that one will be the next Haslab.

I moved this over here since the speculation is more about what Jayson said and this is a bit more active part of the forums these days...

Crazy how we all just plunked down $500 and we're already champing at the bit to get started on the next mega-$ project for Hasbro to sell us. :)
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on January 2, 2024, 06:43 PM
What do people think on timing for the next Star Wars HasLab, and do you think they'll try something non-TVC?

I personally don't think they're dumb enough to try non-TVC, but I guess their track record for smarts is limited.

My guess is that it'll be about 18 months from now (SDCC 2025?) that they'll start the next HasLab and it'll be something TVC.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 3, 2024, 10:32 AM
Someone posted a list of their desired Haslabs on anotheR Site, which Jayson made the comment that one will be the next Haslab.

I moved this over here since the speculation is more about what Jayson said and this is a bit more active part of the forums these days...

Crazy how we all just plunked down $500 and we're already champing at the bit to get started on the next mega-$ project for Hasbro to sell us. :)


Good call on the move. 

As for the timing of the discussion?  Blame short attention spans!  Plus, it seems to be something that Hasbro might already be developing at this time as they gear up for manufacturing the Ghost.  The design work is done on that, but they have yet to reveal the packaging.  Plus they’re probably in final testing to make sure the production process goes smoothly. 

As for the timing?  Who knows when a new campaign will launch.  But I’m curious - the Transformers and Marvel teams have also had multiple successful Haslab campaigns.  Did any of those launch before a successful Haslab campaign was delivered?
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on January 3, 2024, 11:23 AM
What do people think on timing for the next Star Wars HasLab, and do you think they'll try something non-TVC?

They've done one Star Wars HasLab in 5 of the last 6 years (missed 2019) so I'm guessing 2024 will have one. 

Just because TVC is 3/3 and BS 6" is 0/1 isn't a reason to never try BS 6" again.  2024 will be 3 years since the failed Rancor.  I'd like to see what they would come up with in a new attempt.  I'm not buying the 6" stuff, but I'd like to see where they go next to see what lessons they've learned from the failed Rancor and the 6" successes in other brands.


But I’m curious - the Transformers and Marvel teams have also had multiple successful Haslab campaigns.  Did any of those launch before a successful Haslab campaign was delivered?

- GI Joe Classified 6" HISS Tank (Aug 2022) ran before the GI Joe 3.75" Skystriker shipped (Jan 2023)
- GI Joe Classified 6" Dragonfly (Jul 2023) ran before the HISS Tank shipped (coming soon)
- Galactus (Aug 2021) ran just about when the Sentinel was being shipped (Sep 2021)
- TFers Deathsaurus (Nov 2022) ran just before the TFers Victory Saber shipped (Dec 2022)

Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Rob on January 3, 2024, 01:39 PM
I know we talk about this all the time, but I'd love to see more frequent, smaller Haslabs... do stuff you wouldn't normally do at retail and see how it goes even if it's not a massive real-estate hogging vehicle...

Do an Imperial Dignitaries 5-Pack for $100...

Or some stuff from ROTS that got glossed over because they basically killed the 5-POA line right when the movie released...

I only have so much space left for Ghost-sized things anyway, and I bet I have more room than most people.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Dave on January 3, 2024, 03:50 PM
I know we talk about this all the time, but I'd love to see more frequent, smaller Haslabs... do stuff you wouldn't normally do at retail and see how it goes even if it's not a massive real-estate hogging vehicle...

Do an Imperial Dignitaries 5-Pack for $100...

Or some stuff from ROTS that got glossed over because they basically killed the 5-POA line right when the movie released...

I only have so much space left for Ghost-sized things anyway, and I bet I have more room than most people.

I totally agree. 

I'd much rather have a pile of $150 items that fit in my display than mega ships like The Ghost.  I too am still trying to figure out where that beast is going to fit.

If they think a Blurrg or pirate snub fighter aren't going to get enough sales at retail, they could come up with enough of those small to mid-sized ships/beasts that I think they could sell all day long for $50-$150 either via Fan Channel or HasLab.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Nicklab on January 4, 2024, 10:20 AM
I'm hopeful that the Epic Hero series is going to be able to offer some lower cost vehicles that might flesh out the line.  Does anyone really think that Hasbro might offer a TVC version of Vane's snub fighter from TM season 3?  Which is one of the reasons why I'm hopeful for that line.  Maybe it can offer us vehicles that might be on par with or a little better than the ones released in the REBELS line?

As for $150 - $200 vehicles?  I have some hope there.  The U-Wing is on my list of vehicles that might work in that range.  And so is the Imperial Gunship that's been in REBELS, TM season 3, and AHSOKA.
Title: Re: Big Items of the Future!
Post by: Jeff on January 4, 2024, 10:51 AM
As for $150 - $200 vehicles?  I have some hope there.  The U-Wing is on my list of vehicles that might work in that range.  And so is the Imperial Gunship that's been in REBELS, TM season 3, and AHSOKA.

Yeah, the $130 Mando N-1 shows that they haven't given up on new vehicles.  The price is unfortunate, but that's the world we live in now I guess.  I'm hoping that the N-1 sold well enough to bring us more new ships. 

That REBELS/Ahsoka Imperial LAAT Gunship would be a great candidate for a Hasbro Pulse 'open order' item (like the Boba/Jabba Palace set) since Ahsoka is still fresh.  Open up a pre-order window to determine demand and then it comes a year later (which is what you guys were wanting with a kind of HasLab that isn't a HasLab thing).  You could toss in a TVC carded Night Trooper/Pilot.

U-Wing would be a good candidate too, especially if it shows up in Andor Season 2.