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Collectibles => The Vintage Collection => Topic started by: Jeff on April 9, 2021, 02:47 PM

Title: 2021 Target TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on April 9, 2021, 02:47 PM
Announced at Fan Fest today:
Rogue One Blue Leader X-Wing (repaint of the new TVC X-Wing ship) with carded General Merrick figure

Target exclusive in USA; TRU in Canada; Fan Channel in UK/EU.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EykSvsXVoAA7BIa.jpg) (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EykUSV2UUAEczrX.jpg) (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EykUSV2VgAA71ep.jpg)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 9, 2021, 02:49 PM
A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.




Until they mentioned it's a Target Exclusive.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Jeff on April 9, 2021, 03:13 PM
io9 has the paid exclusive reveal (https://io9.gizmodo.com/rogue-ones-blue-leader-soars-into-hasbros-star-wars-fig-1846652624).

They are saying its $100 @ Target this Fall.  That is a nice surprise to see they didn't jack up the price $15-20 because it's coming with a carded figure this time.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Dave on April 9, 2021, 03:26 PM
Any thoughts on if this figure will ever be released on a card?   I'd love the figure, but don't need another X-Wing.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Jeff on April 9, 2021, 03:30 PM
Any thoughts on if this figure will ever be released on a card? 

To be clear, he is a carded figure (like the pack-ins have been carded for the playsets).  They said the plan was for the carded figure to be exclusive to the set.  No plans to repack it in the main line.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on April 9, 2021, 03:35 PM
A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.


Until they mentioned it's a Target Exclusive.

I'm generally excited about this. I do wish they would give one carded figure and one un-carded figure in this scenario.

I'm not sure if I need it, but I do wonder if Hasbro will do a partisan X-wing with Two tubes this year.

I don't know that I am too worried about Target. Recent Transformers Target exclusives have been pretty reasonable to get. The Smugglers BMF had issues, but I assume the cost of that lead to less volume in the system. My fingers are crossed that there will be a reasonable amount of Blue One to go around.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Rob on April 9, 2021, 04:00 PM
I love it.  I really wanted them to make him, this is great.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with Antoc Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on April 9, 2021, 06:23 PM
This was easily the highlight of the Star Wars team panel.  The updated X-Wing is a great vehicle with some amazing details.  And I feel like a lot of collectors have been calling for the Blue Leader X-Wing and General Merrick to be released ever since they saw ROGUE ONE.

I'm not sure how I feel about the whole carded figure pack-in with a vehicle.  Yeah, they did that with the playsets.  But the playsets sold for about half the price of the most recent X-Wing release.  So if you wanted to get loose and carded versions of the Han Solo and Ree Yees from the Jabba's Palace Adventure set it was just another $50 to do that.  And the playset have lent themselves to some world building if you bought more than one.  This feels a little bit like Hasbro might be taking advantage. 

And if this does make it to Target stores?  I get the feeling that you might find some swappers who buy the vehicle just for the figure and return it with another figure.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on April 9, 2021, 09:09 PM
Poe's X-Wing at Target was easy to get for $60 within a few weeks... I bought both of the other two for full price but I think I'm going to hold off for a sale on this one. 

Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jedi Idej on April 10, 2021, 03:06 AM
This is a great set but it does suck the figure is exclusive. Wish they did an accessory variant instead, like the Razor Crest off-world jawa, so the figure itself is widely available.

That said, I'm down with the occasional release of a well-made re-deco and figure. I'll even go for a semi- or thrice-annual subscription.

(C'mon, Haslab, time to add a new Y-wing to your portfolio.)


Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 10, 2021, 02:18 PM
It's times like these I feel sorry for carded collectors who are completionists.  Gonna have to get two of these.  It's probably worse with the Razor Crest.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on April 12, 2021, 10:13 PM
It's times like these I feel sorry for carded collectors who are completionists.  Gonna have to get two of these.  It's probably worse with the Razor Crest.

So, I mentioned above that I wish this release would come with an un-carded Merrick and a carded Merrick to solve the problem. I would be happy to pay $120 for that... maybe more? What would the rest of you pay?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on April 13, 2021, 09:21 AM
It's times like these I feel sorry for carded collectors who are completionists.  Gonna have to get two of these.  It's probably worse with the Razor Crest.

So, I mentioned above that I wish this release would come with an un-carded Merrick and a carded Merrick to solve the problem. I would be happy to pay $120 for that... maybe more? What would the rest of you pay?

As cool as it looks, I really don't want another X-Wing. 

I'd really like to only pay $13 for a carded Merrick.  I'd be okay if he came in a white mailer for $13 too.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 13, 2021, 09:55 AM
I'm already trying to figure out how to reorganize my Rebel Alliance hangar table to fit this thing!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on April 13, 2021, 01:59 PM
The TVC TIE Fighter came with a pack-in TIE Pilot.  But that figure wasn’t carded.  This way of presenting General Merrick  is a little bit of a departure from what they’ve done before.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on April 13, 2021, 02:46 PM
That's true Nick, but they've been releasing carded figures in the playsets, so maybe they are going to follow that model from now on.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on April 13, 2021, 05:12 PM
That's true Nick, but they've been releasing carded figures in the playsets, so maybe they are going to follow that model from now on.

And they've done Carded figures (albeit variants) as pack-ins with the Haslab Sail Barge and three carded figures with the Razor Crest too.

I feel for the carded collectors... or really anyone who wants Merrick but not the ship.

I am a sucker for new X-Wing repaints, so I'm not too upset by this one.  My goal will be to try and pick this up when Target is running one of their $25 off $100 coupons - $75 for a new X-Wing repaint and new TVC Merrick is worth it to me. 
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on April 13, 2021, 05:35 PM
My goal will be to try and pick this up when Target is running one of their $25 off $100 coupons - $75 for a new X-Wing repaint and new TVC Merrick is worth it to me.

I'm thinking the same thing, but I'm wondering if this is going to be gone quickly and thus I need to pre-order.  I'm hoping the price point and exclusivity is enough that these will be around for the six months that might be necessary to take advantage of one of those coupons.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: GrandMoffNick on April 13, 2021, 05:45 PM
I feel opposite of many. I love this X Wing but probably would have passed for $75 by itself. With a $25 TVC figure included I have an excuse to buy it.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on April 13, 2021, 05:57 PM
I feel opposite of many. I love this X Wing but probably would have passed for $75 by itself. With a $25 TVC figure included I have an excuse to buy it.

I could be tempted to take the figure off your hands for $25 if you don't want it.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: GrandMoffNick on April 13, 2021, 07:15 PM
I feel opposite of many. I love this X Wing but probably would have passed for $75 by itself. With a $25 TVC figure included I have an excuse to buy it.

I could be tempted to take the figure off your hands for $25 if you don't want it.

I didn't express myself well (I seldomly do). I would have wanted the X Wing on it's own but would have passed but been disappointed to do so. With the figure it makes me feel like I need the fig so much I'll buy the set and be happy I was "forced" to buy the x wing.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on April 13, 2021, 07:19 PM
I’m with you Dave.  I want the figure.  I want Hasbro to stick to recording stuff for pack-ins and not this new figure in a ship not everyone wants BS.  This is a bad trend imo.

That said, I’m happy there’s a Merrick figure.  I’m just bummed he’s basically a $75-$100 figure.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: GrandMoffNick on April 13, 2021, 07:23 PM
Sounds like a good way to make $ and how is it a new thing (excluding the carded part)? Guess my memory is bad.

I am or was missing multiple pilots back in the day after skipping repaint vehicles
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on April 13, 2021, 09:58 PM
New for things currently, maybe.  It’s been a while since they’ve done a new figure as a pack-in, much less so one for what will be a $100 vehicle.

As far as making $....  I’m not so sure there is gonna be a deep market for a ship sans the figure at anything but a steep discount.  Not saying I wouldn’t try, but let’s say you get the ship for $75...  I can’t see anyone getting much more than $50 for the ship and I think that’s generous really.  How many XWings can people want ya know?  Space being finite and all.  I don’t see many wanting to squad build it so opportunity may be pretty slim to unload the XWing.  Either way ya slice it, if you don’t want the ship, I think you’re just going to be paying a steep price for a new figure.  That sucks. 

They could wind up producing tons of the XW tho and it goes on steep discount like the Jabba Palace did, so you never know.  I just don’t like the idea of $100 ships with new figures in them, be it 1999 or now. 🤷‍♂️
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 15, 2021, 02:49 PM
I don't know, I can see not wanting the X-wing because of space, but I'm actually pumped about this ship and the figure, so I guess I'm the target (no pun intended) audience here. I'd be happy to buy the ship off of anyone, but I'm also going to buy one full set as well. Not building a squad, but I wouldn't pass up having two blue squadron X-wings.

What I've heard many times is that the 3.75" figure line has never been super profitable, but Hasbro/Kenner made their money from the ships and playsets. The figures help support that and sell more vehicles. The problem is that now most collectors absolutely will not buy a vehicle unless it's on deep discount—and I mean like last-chance clearance. They even start cursing out Hasbro that they can't find it on clearance anywhere, balk when the clearance price is too high, and demand that other collectors find the ship on clearance for them. The fact is, there won't be a line if the fanbase is only buying things on clearance. I'll buy extras at discount, but I always tend to get at least one at full price.

The other problem is actually finding the ******* thing and/or being able to order it.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on April 20, 2021, 04:29 AM
I think that’s a reason this is exclusive but you wait and see everyone pitch a conniption over the price and somehow think Hasbro should offer it less for weird reasons like it being a repaint (like depreciating costs of the molds somehow gets passed onto the consimer).

I mean I’m not happy about it but I’ll still buy the ship at full price most likely cuz I want the figure and that’s that, ya know?  If I can sell the ship then cool.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: tmanthegreat on April 20, 2021, 11:22 AM
Just seeing this about Blue Leader’s X-Wing... I like it! Now if only I can find one come this fall.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on April 20, 2021, 04:44 PM
I don't know, I can see not wanting the X-wing because of space, but I'm actually pumped about this ship and the figure, so I guess I'm the target (no pun intended) audience here. I'd be happy to buy the ship off of anyone, but I'm also going to buy one full set as well. Not building a squad, but I wouldn't pass up having two blue squadron X-wings.

What I've heard many times is that the 3.75" figure line has never been super profitable, but Hasbro/Kenner made their money from the ships and playsets. The figures help support that and sell more vehicles. The problem is that now most collectors absolutely will not buy a vehicle unless it's on deep discount—and I mean like last-chance clearance. They even start cursing out Hasbro that they can't find it on clearance anywhere, balk when the clearance price is too high, and demand that other collectors find the ship on clearance for them. The fact is, there won't be a line if the fanbase is only buying things on clearance. I'll buy extras at discount, but I always tend to get at least one at full price.

The other problem is actually finding the ******* thing and/or being able to order it.

I agree with all this.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Merrick's x-wing may outsell the recent releases of Poe's X-wing & Luke's X-wing as there will be some people trying to build up a blue squadron display. Maybe we need a new mold of a Y-wing to add a second blue squadron ship release.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 21, 2021, 08:34 PM
I mean I’m not happy about it but I’ll still buy the ship at full price most likely cuz I want the figure and that’s that, ya know?  If I can sell the ship then cool.

If you're having trouble selling the X-Wing, then your old buddy Lando is here. ;)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on April 21, 2021, 08:35 PM
I don't know, I can see not wanting the X-wing because of space, but I'm actually pumped about this ship and the figure, so I guess I'm the target (no pun intended) audience here. I'd be happy to buy the ship off of anyone, but I'm also going to buy one full set as well. Not building a squad, but I wouldn't pass up having two blue squadron X-wings.

What I've heard many times is that the 3.75" figure line has never been super profitable, but Hasbro/Kenner made their money from the ships and playsets. The figures help support that and sell more vehicles. The problem is that now most collectors absolutely will not buy a vehicle unless it's on deep discount—and I mean like last-chance clearance. They even start cursing out Hasbro that they can't find it on clearance anywhere, balk when the clearance price is too high, and demand that other collectors find the ship on clearance for them. The fact is, there won't be a line if the fanbase is only buying things on clearance. I'll buy extras at discount, but I always tend to get at least one at full price.

The other problem is actually finding the ******* thing and/or being able to order it.

I agree with all this.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Merrick's x-wing may outsell the recent releases of Poe's X-wing & Luke's X-wing as there will be some people trying to build up a blue squadron display. Maybe we need a new mold of a Y-wing to add a second blue squadron ship release.

The Y-Wing would be a dream come true. That's really my most wanted resculpt ship, followed very closely by the B-Wing. If Hasbro ever wants to try smaller ships in Haslab, I'd be all over those two.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on April 21, 2021, 10:38 PM
I’ll keep ya in mind man.  I def won’t want to keep the ship, and only want Merrick.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 11, 2021, 01:41 PM
Does anyone have a photo of General Merrick's astromech?  I think it's the one with the red body and R2-D2's head, but I'm not 100% sure.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on May 11, 2021, 10:50 PM
I was thinking the same.  There were or are several with that body and a unique dome tho.  Silver and black and a silver R3 came to mind.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on May 12, 2021, 09:51 AM
Does anyone have a photo of General Merrick's astromech?

I have no idea so I'm just going to grab one of the Disney droids from that Rogue One Droid Factory 4-pack and call it good.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 12, 2021, 09:57 AM
Does anyone have a photo of General Merrick's astromech?

I have no idea so I'm just going to grab one of the Disney droids from that Rogue One Droid Factory 4-pack and call it good.

I'm starting to think the same thing.  If you've seen my room tour video, I have plenty of astromechs on my Rebel Hangar table.  I just realized I'm going to have to do some serious rearranging on that table to fit this X-wing!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: P-Siddy on May 12, 2021, 10:34 AM
Does anyone have a photo of General Merrick's astromech?  I think it's the one with the red body and R2-D2's head, but I'm not 100% sure.

This is the best I can come up with:
https://www.thesandcrawler.net/news/2021/14/04/merrick-astromech (https://www.thesandcrawler.net/news/2021/14/04/merrick-astromech)
and this:
http://from4-lomtozuckuss.com/blue-leader-paging-r2-r9/ (http://from4-lomtozuckuss.com/blue-leader-paging-r2-r9/)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on May 12, 2021, 11:30 AM
Thanks P-Siddy.

So to be movie accurate, it would need to be a red body, with red legs and R2-D2's dome.

I am planning a trip to Disneyland this fall.....
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 1, 2021, 11:20 PM
Found this in the TVC Facebook group. (https://www.target.com/p/-/A-81959539)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on September 2, 2021, 11:44 AM
Yesterday it just wasn't available, now it's listed as Sold Out.  Did a pre-order window open and shut while I wasn't looking??
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 2, 2021, 12:42 PM
I don't think so Rob....still just a placeholder.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on September 2, 2021, 12:59 PM
I can't imagine this will be that hard to come by when it is officially launched.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 8, 2021, 10:32 AM
Has anyone else noticed that the product page for this has pretty much rolled back to a headline and nothing else?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on September 8, 2021, 10:34 AM
It seems to be gone from the app. 
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 8, 2021, 10:37 AM
It sounds like we're probably in for a big drop in pre-orders tomorrow.  All of them are likely to be announced in the livestream in at 11:00 ET
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 8, 2021, 10:42 AM
Let's ******* hope so. Anything's better than just sitting around.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: P-Siddy on September 8, 2021, 11:44 AM
According to Patrick, I guess it's in-store only.  ::)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 8, 2021, 11:48 AM
Scalpers will be sending thank you cards to Hasbro.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 8, 2021, 11:55 AM
Pretty cool to see Chopper in the packaging art.  I wonder which release that is?

But what's in that packaging photo might show a lack of depth of fan knowledge with the current Hasbro Star Wars team.  R4-G9?  Really?  They couldn't put a more accurate droid in that photo?  Or a Rebel ground crew figure?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on September 8, 2021, 05:45 PM
According to Patrick, I guess it's in-store only.  ::)

I would not be surprised if limited stock gets posted as a "surprise" during Target's Fall Geek Out (https://www.target.com/c/collectors-toys/-/N-54vro) event. Star Wars will have "reveals" on Friday 9/24.  Might be worth checking in that day.  Same goes for the Black Series 6" Arvala-7 Mud Deco Mando/Grogu 2-pack.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 9, 2021, 11:17 AM
According to Patrick, I guess it's in-store only.  ::)

I would not be surprised if limited stock gets posted as a "surprise" during Target's Fall Geek Out (https://www.target.com/c/collectors-toys/-/N-54vro) event. Star Wars will have "reveals" on Friday 9/24.  Might be worth checking in that day.  Same goes for the Black Series 6" Arvala-7 Mud Deco Mando/Grogu 2-pack.

That's what I'm hoping too.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 9, 2021, 12:12 PM
According to Patrick, I guess it's in-store only.  ::)

I would not be surprised if limited stock gets posted as a "surprise" during Target's Fall Geek Out (https://www.target.com/c/collectors-toys/-/N-54vro) event. Star Wars will have "reveals" on Friday 9/24.  Might be worth checking in that day.  Same goes for the Black Series 6" Arvala-7 Mud Deco Mando/Grogu 2-pack.

This is where I would love to have a LIKE button in the forum.  Thanks for sharing that information Jeff!


Thinking about this particular vehicle, I've got to wonder something.  And this is probably the result of WAY too much time reading posts in The Vintage Collection Facebook group.  Is it possible that some people could wind up buying as many as 3 of these to check some boxes in their own collections?

-1 to open
-1 to take out the General Merrick figure for display as a carded figure
-1 to keep completely sealed

Just writing that down I can see all sorts of collecting OCD spilling out.  I will personally be content with one of these X-wings.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 9, 2021, 12:29 PM
Same Nick.  I just want one for my Rebel Hangar diorama and I have the sinking feeling its going to be nigh impossible to get one.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 9, 2021, 12:35 PM
Same Nick.  I just want one for my Rebel Hangar diorama and I have the sinking feeling its going to be nigh impossible to get one.

I get where you're coming from, Matt.  A lot of people seem discouraged about this, but I think that with smartphones we're going to be able to get this vehicle.

1 - At $104.99 it isn't going to be flying off the shelves
2 - While Brickseek has failed to be a useful tool in tracking down Star Wars product at Target, the Target app IS good at doing that.  Once we have the product listing information you can search via the Target app to find these in your area.  And I think you might be able to secure it for in store pickup.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 9, 2021, 12:43 PM
Online shopping and the app didn't help me get the latest BMF Falcon.

My hope for that one is that my company is expanding to the Florida Space coast and my wife really wants us to move.  She's tried to sweeten the deal with Disney annual passes and buying a boat.

I had to remind her that I don't need her to cosign on the boat payments.   :D

I know you're trying to keep me positive Nick, and I really appreciate it, but I'm mired in the we're 20 minutes from pre-order time and I usually stress the **** out!   ;D
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Pete_Fett on September 9, 2021, 05:11 PM
Thinking about this particular vehicle, I've got to wonder something.  And this is probably the result of WAY too much time reading posts in The Vintage Collection Facebook group.  Is it possible that some people could wind up buying as many as 3 of these to check some boxes in their own collections?

-1 to open
-1 to take out the General Merrick figure for display as a carded figure
-1 to keep completely sealed

Just writing that down I can see all sorts of collecting OCD spilling out.  I will personally be content with one of these X-wings.

This was my plan - to get three for those exact three reasons.

If they were releasing him in a wave and I would be able to get him separately, this would NOT be an issue. By getting three, I'm already taking a hit on the numbers of any single TVC figure I collect. (I get minimally two of every figure to open). So I will be okay with the idea that there is a MOC one sight-unseen in the un-opened X-Wing box, one that I will keep MOC from one opened X-Wing and then a third that I will open to put in the cockpit of the fighter. I don't what I'll do with the spare X-Wing, may hang it from the ceiling in my basement or I may offer it up for $30 - $40, I'm sure there's someone who will find that price (even without the figure) a good deal.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Muftak on September 9, 2021, 05:40 PM
Thinking about this particular vehicle, I've got to wonder something.  And this is probably the result of WAY too much time reading posts in The Vintage Collection Facebook group.  Is it possible that some people could wind up buying as many as 3 of these to check some boxes in their own collections?

-1 to open
-1 to take out the General Merrick figure for display as a carded figure
-1 to keep completely sealed

Just writing that down I can see all sorts of collecting OCD spilling out.  I will personally be content with one of these X-wings.

This was my plan - to get three for those exact three reasons.

If they were releasing him in a wave and I would be able to get him separately, this would NOT be an issue. By getting three, I'm already taking a hit on the numbers of any single TVC figure I collect. (I get minimally two of every figure to open). So I will be okay with the idea that there is a MOC one sight-unseen in the un-opened X-Wing box, one that I will keep MOC from one opened X-Wing and then a third that I will open to put in the cockpit of the fighter. I don't what I'll do with the spare X-Wing, may hang it from the ceiling in my basement or I may offer it up for $30 - $40, I'm sure there's someone who will find that price (even without the figure) a good deal.

Devils Advocate here...if the only option to get this is as shelf stock and not shipped from the warehouse, you can never be sure that the figure wasn't removed and the box returned to the store without opening it up.

Pilfered packages are gonna be a real issue I expect, as the loose carded Merricks wind up going for big bucks on ebay.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: GrandMoffNick on September 9, 2021, 05:42 PM
My plan is to buy it and then open it in front of the cashier.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Pete_Fett on September 9, 2021, 05:43 PM
Devils Advocate here...if the only option to get this is as shelf stock and not shipped from the warehouse, you can never be sure that the figure wasn't removed and the box returned to the store without opening it up.

Pilfered packages are gonna be a real issue I expect, as the loose carded Merricks wind up going for big bucks on ebay.

yep, this is a big reason why I'm disappointed I won't be able to order these off the website and have it shipped directly to me
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: JediJman on September 10, 2021, 10:24 AM
Well, this is a no-brainer from a marketing perspective.  It was just a matter of time before they figured out that the collecting community would shell out big bucks for carded figures hidden inside of something much more expensive.  At $105, you'd have to sell 7x TVC carded Merrick's to equal one X-Wing sale.  As several people here stated, no one needs another X-Wing, so they're tying in more shelf presence, a big ticket item for the holidays, and more overall profit for the brand. Offering this in any other form or separately at a later date just dilutes sales of other future releases. 

I'll buy one for a Merrick, but I'll definitely watch for repacks and wait for a sale.  I wish they would go back to those little transparent windows on the box so you could see the figure inside.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 10, 2021, 02:55 PM
Maybe it's just me...I don't care about the TVC card, but I do like having the pilot packed with the vehicle.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 24, 2021, 09:38 AM
I had been hoping that the General Merrick X-Wing would go live today, but no such luck.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 24, 2021, 09:54 AM
I had been hoping that the General Merrick X-Wing would go live today, but no such luck.

Same.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on September 24, 2021, 10:13 AM
It’ll probably be soon.  This Target event runs a few days.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 24, 2021, 11:03 AM
I would keep an eye out on the weekly Target ads, along with any news of a toy aisle reset.  The box for this X-Wing is large enough that it's going to need more space than what's currently allocated in stores.  That could mean an endcap display.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on September 24, 2021, 11:06 AM
I had been hoping that the General Merrick X-Wing would go live today, but no such luck.

Didn't they say that this would be in store only and not online?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 24, 2021, 11:26 AM
They mentioned that they wanted to avoid another pre-order debacle.  But with this Target Fall Geek Out promotion it seemed like the possibility was there that Target might drop this one without announcing it in advance.

In actuality, I think that Target might want to make this an in-store only item simply because of the shipping costs.  Once you get over a certain price threshold you get free shipping.  Shipping a box that's big enough to hold the Blue leader X-Wing might be kind of expensive, even for Target.  That could be some of the reasoning here.  But as always with exclusives, they're designed to spur foot traffic into actual stores.

Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 24, 2021, 12:40 PM
Three days ago one of the folks in the TVC Facebook page picked up the Merrick X-Wing in Austin.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 24, 2021, 06:45 PM
I’ve seen reports of it turning up in the UK. But that’s the first time I’ve heard about a US store sighting.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 29, 2021, 11:18 AM
Here are some observations I've been able to make about the Blue Leader X-wing over the past couple of days:

-The DPCI number is valid
-The barcode for this X-Wing is circulating on social media.  Having it handy on your smartphone might be helpful
-Scanning the barcode with the Target app does not yield any search results.  So that doesn't look like it's going to be helpful in terms of tracking when a specific store gets the X-Wing in stock
-If you scan the barcode with an in-store scanner you'll see the product listing
-There appears to be a Star Wars endcap in the toy section now.  The lower shelf seems to be set up for a box the size of the X-Wing
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 29, 2021, 11:30 AM
Here are some observations I've been able to make about the Blue Leader X-wing over the past couple of days:

-The DPCI number is valid
-The barcode for this X-Wing is circulating on social media.  Having it handy on your smartphone might be helpful
-Scanning the barcode with the Target app does not yield any search results.  So that doesn't look like it's going to be helpful in terms of tracking when a specific store gets the X-Wing in stock
-If you scan the barcode with an in-store scanner you'll see the product listing
-There appears to be a Star Wars endcap in the toy section now.  The lower shelf seems to be set up for a box the size of the X-Wing

Awesome, thanks!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 29, 2021, 05:22 PM
Looks like this was found in Massachusetts! Anyone got that Antoc Merrick barcode? I haven't seen it anywhere. I have the numeric stuff, but nothing for the Target employees to scan.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on September 29, 2021, 06:34 PM
Check it out here:  https://www.instagram.com/p/CUbCeH_MtIW/?utm_medium=copy_link
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: GrandMoffNick on October 3, 2021, 10:42 AM
Managed an in store pick up today. Box was so mutilated I was sure Antoc was gone but thankfully was wrong.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 3, 2021, 11:06 AM
The product listing is back on the Target website as well as the app:  Star Wars The Vintage Collection Antoc Merrick's X-Wing Fighter (https://www.target.com/p/star-wars-the-vintage-collection-antoc-merrick-39-s-x-wing-fighter/-/A-81959539).

I tried using the barcode at another store yesterday, and again there were none of these in stock at any Target in the NYC/NJ area.  I'm hoping that the app will at least show some accurate inventory status so that I might be able to buy online and do an in store pickup.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on October 3, 2021, 03:26 PM
These popped online at about 2am cuz normal right?  And yeah, sold out.  I’m just waiting and hoping they wind up hitting in some capacity.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 3, 2021, 06:44 PM
The product listing is back on the Target website as well as the app:  Star Wars The Vintage Collection Antoc Merrick's X-Wing Fighter (https://www.target.com/p/star-wars-the-vintage-collection-antoc-merrick-39-s-x-wing-fighter/-/A-81959539).

I tried using the barcode at another store yesterday, and again there were none of these in stock at any Target in the NYC/NJ area.  I'm hoping that the app will at least show some accurate inventory status so that I might be able to buy online and do an in store pickup.

Nick, I owe you one brother!  I looked at the link and it showed one X-wing in a target clear across town!  I drove over, looked around, asked a sales associate and 45 minutes of them looking in the stock room I have this bad boy in my collection!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 3, 2021, 08:36 PM
Glad to hear that it worked. Enjoy!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 3, 2021, 09:48 PM
 I sure hope a lot more of these show up.  They’re already over $200 on eBay.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 4, 2021, 12:17 PM
My review of the X-wing and the Antoc Merrick figure. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BkWa14zTKo&t=1s)

I also made sure to spread Nick's message of using the Target website.   ;D
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on October 4, 2021, 01:58 PM
My review of the X-wing and the Antoc Merrick figure. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BkWa14zTKo&t=1s)

I also made sure to spread Nick's message of using the Target website.   ;D

Nice review. I completely agree with you about needing a new U-Wing! You might try a little bit of fun tack inside the helmet to keep it from getting too wobbly. I have him posed standing with the other pilots with his helmet under his arm.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 4, 2021, 02:58 PM
My gripes in the review are very minor.  I'm still figuring how I'm going to display this, but it looks great!

I would like a proper U-Wing, but if Hasbro were ever to make one, it will be a Haslab project in order for it to be accurate.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on October 4, 2021, 03:19 PM
I would like a proper U-Wing, but if Hasbro were ever to make one, it will be a Haslab project in order for it to be accurate.

Absolutely, and it would be magnificent.

(https://c.tenor.com/BCx2HrDsyLcAAAAC/robocop-id-buy-that-for-a-dollar.gif)

^ This is the pricepoint the majority of the collecting community would want to pay, at clearance, so Haslab would need to be the route we take.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 5, 2021, 01:15 PM
My gripes in the review are very minor.  I'm still figuring how I'm going to display this, but it looks great!

I would like a proper U-Wing, but if Hasbro were ever to make one, it will be a Haslab project in order for it to be accurate.

I've actually been thinking about this a bit recently.  The 5th anniversary of Rogue One hasn't gone completely unnoticed by Hasbro.  And a lot of fans seem to genuinely love that movie.  Then we can factor in the upcoming Disney+ ANDOR series.  Given his use of the U-Wing in Rogue One, you have to think that maybe that type of ship will surface in the series.  The fact that it's a Rebel Alliance troop carrier gives you the indication that it could turn up in other live action entertainment, and it already has made it into animation on a few occasions. 

As for the size?  I don't think it necessarily needs to be a Haslab project.  I could see a slightly scaled down version of the U-Wing being released in a box that's similar to the one that the TVC Slave One was released in.  And the potential to repaint it for multiple releases could give it some mainline viability.  I would pay $150 for a U-Wing with the correct cockpit and something of a troop bay.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 5, 2021, 02:21 PM
Would buy a u-wing.

On the X-Wing… Target says out of stock, not sold out.  Do we have any indication about whether or not this is supposed to show up online at all again or is the in store stock out last hope?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: JediJman on October 5, 2021, 02:24 PM
Would buy a u-wing.

On the X-Wing… Target says out of stock, not sold out.  Do we have any indication about whether or not this is supposed to show up online at all again or is the in store stock out last hope?

I wish we had a Target insider in the group.  I think the "normal" ways of checking stock either online or in-store via price checker are showing no stock on these and other collectibles, but the employee scanners show different information.  I bet there will be more of these - it should be the big ticket SW item for Christmas.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 5, 2021, 03:17 PM
During my 45 minute wait for the two associates to find the X-Wing in the bowels of the stock room, I noticed there were new figures on the pegs.  I grabbed an IG-11 and a Teebo (Need a second for the alternate headdress.)

The associate that got the X-Wing for me noticed I grabbed the new figures as well and mentioned he had just pulled them out because they're getting ready to gear up for Christmas.  I would not be surprised if the X-Wing shows up a lot more as they reset the toy aisles for Christmas.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 6, 2021, 12:50 PM
No idea if it’s nonsense, but someone at RS is claiming that someone from Target said they underestimated demand and have ordered more x-wings.  If that’s even true, I have no idea how long they would take to arrive.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Muftak on October 6, 2021, 07:00 PM
No idea if it’s nonsense, but someone at RS is claiming that someone from Target said they underestimated demand and have ordered more x-wings.  If that’s even tue, I have no idea how long they would take to arrive.

Ordered more? Who, the local store management? Checking the nearest distribution center?

This was an exclusive item made specifically for this order. If more were being made, the word would come from Hasbro like it did for the Bad Batch 4-pack and the Walmart Jabba's Palace.

I guarantee this nugget was dropped by a red shirt trying to placate a weirdo star wars fan so they could go about their day.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 6, 2021, 10:02 PM
Yeah I got the impression they meant that Target as a company was trying to have more made.   I have no idea. 

That said, I hate that there’s no update on this from Target or Hasbro.  $200 is a ton to pay for an X-Wing, but if these have really come and gone already $200 will look like a bargain pretty soon.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 8, 2021, 03:35 PM
I saw a hint of one of these being in stock at a single store.  But it was over an hour's drive away, and the inventory indication in the Target app said "Limited Availability".  As much as I really want this particular X-Wing, it wasn't worth driving 2 hours round trip just in the event that it *MIGHT* be in stock.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jedi Idej on October 10, 2021, 01:37 PM
I checked online this morning and saw 1 in stock at a Target a little over 50 miles away. It just so happens I'll be in the vicinity on Tues for work so I bought it. (Pick-up only.)

I'll open it up in front of the attendant. Hopeful that everything is there but expecting it's a return without the Merrick.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 10, 2021, 03:39 PM
Nice!

I’ve been checking the app every time I pick my phone up for a week and haven’t seen any hint that any store near me has any.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jedi Idej on October 13, 2021, 12:29 AM
Blue leader and x-wing secured. Oh, happy days.

As an added bonus, angle the cardback and we can now picture Joe Dirt in the Star Wars multi-verse.

I hope more of these are being produced to satisfy demand.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on October 13, 2021, 11:45 AM
Nice! I saw your post before and was worried it would end up being a return with a swapped figure. Glad it worked out for you!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jedi Idej on October 13, 2021, 05:50 PM
Thanks. Obviously not a biggie in the scheme of things, but in our little collecting world, it was good to scratch off my list.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: P-Siddy on October 14, 2021, 11:13 AM
A local Target had these listed as limited stock, so I called to make sure of quantity and rushed over.  Toy manager pulled it from the back, but I confirmed everything was intact.  Nice to be done with this.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 15, 2021, 12:11 AM
I found it this evening too.  The app said Limited Stock and there it was.  About $90 after tax with the $25 off.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 15, 2021, 08:55 AM
Checked the Target app this morning and I finally had success!  I was able to buy the X-Wing and get it held for in store pickup.  The only catch is that I have to drive 45 minutes to pick it up.  But the $25 off a $100 purchase took some of the sting out of that. 
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on October 15, 2021, 10:35 AM
Got excited this morning when the Target app showed the X-Wing "in Stock" at a recently visited Target store...  then realized the store is the Oahu-Kapolei store which I visited on vacation this past August.  Just 3986 miles away from me!  But hey, if any JD'ers are on vacation in Oahu, go get those X-Wings! :P
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: JediJman on October 15, 2021, 12:42 PM
I don't understand why these exclusives are so hard to find in MN.  Seems like lots of success away from their home market, but new stuff is impossible to find here in the twin cities where we have 50+ stores around the metro.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: P-Siddy on October 15, 2021, 01:05 PM
I don't understand why these exclusives are so hard to find in MN.  Seems like lots of success away from their home market, but new stuff is impossible to find here in the twin cities where we have 50+ stores around the metro.

I don't think these will be too hard to find in the long run (build up to Christmas).  There were 2 yesterday at a local store and the toy manager said they were getting 12 more on the next truck (today) and apparently people can order these store pick-up now!  Patience is key.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on October 15, 2021, 01:47 PM
I just got back from my excursion to get one.  It’s been a frustrating process because the Target app isn’t just showing that this X-Wing is out of stock.  In a list of close to 20 stores the inventory status shows up as “Not sold in this store”.  Only one store had a status that showed up as out of stock.  And one other store had a Limited Availability status when I expanded my search out.  That’s just ridiculous in a metro area that is home to over 8 million people and dozens of Target store locations. 
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on October 15, 2021, 05:07 PM

Meanwhile here's a report I wrote for the JD TVC thread based on a guy in know from the MN toy posse.

A guy I know in local toy group found one X-wing yesterday at the Edina, MN target. The store did have a shelf tag yesterday as seen in a picture he shared. This inventory did NOT show in the app that I checked multiple times yesterday morning  including before store opened.

Today I went to that Target and four other Targets nearby (Roseville,  Midway, Richfield and Bloomington). Zeros stores had shelf tags for the x-wing. I had employees scan a pic of the upc. Some said the item had no location, while others said it would be in the collectible toys by electronics.
I found the shelf location where my friend found it in Marvel aisle away from the regular Star Wars items. The spot has four shelves with zero shelf  tags, but filled witha Mandalorian gift pack, cards for Pokemon, Magic and some other random stuff.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 16, 2021, 11:42 AM
I found it this evening too.  The app said Limited Stock and there it was.  About $90 after tax with the $25 off.

Glad to hear you found one Rob!

Got excited this morning when the Target app showed the X-Wing "in Stock" at a recently visited Target store...  then realized the store is the Oahu-Kapolei store which I visited on vacation this past August.  Just 3986 miles away from me!  But hey, if any JD'ers are on vacation in Oahu, go get those X-Wings! :P

Jeff, I think that’s an opportunity for a road trip!  Have they finished the bridge yet?  ;)
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on October 16, 2021, 03:32 PM
Glad to hear you guys are finding this. If they start showing up in larger numbers (which I sort of feel is likely), I'm tempted to get a second one to make into another member of Blue Squadron. I think a headswap and adding a stripe on the wings should do the trick.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jesse James on October 16, 2021, 11:57 PM
Local friend drove over into Ohio to get some and got me one.  I’m glad to get Merrick and annoyed at Target’s completely weird rollout on this.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on October 26, 2021, 08:13 PM
I got in on the 2pm listing on target circle last week thanks to the yakface patreon. It arrived today in great shape though the box is long enough to put a guitar in it.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Jeff on October 26, 2021, 10:14 PM
I received mine in the mail today thanks to a friend (thanks again, Rob! :)).

Even though I had no need for yet another giant sized X-Wing, I love it. Not sure what it is about this X-Wing sculpt or the tweaks they keep making to it, but I'll probably keep buying them every time they release a new one.  Bring on more Blue Squadron pilots!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Rob on October 27, 2021, 12:11 PM
My pleasure!  With the Clone Wars stuff you sold me, I'm about 200 favors away from being even. 
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 27, 2021, 12:28 PM
I love it when collectors help collectors.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on October 27, 2021, 02:11 PM
This seems to be popping in and out of stock for very, very small windows today.  I've seen it twice now but missed it both times.  Hopefully there is more to come.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Ryan on November 10, 2021, 12:53 PM
During my 45 minute wait for the two associates to find the X-Wing in the bowels of the stock room, I noticed there were new figures on the pegs.  I grabbed an IG-11 and a Teebo (Need a second for the alternate headdress.)

The associate that got the X-Wing for me noticed I grabbed the new figures as well and mentioned he had just pulled them out because they're getting ready to gear up for Christmas.  I would not be surprised if the X-Wing shows up a lot more as they reset the toy aisles for Christmas.

Hopefully that will be the case. I still prefer to find things in the wild rather than buy online but I don't see a spot on the shelves for this guy at my local Targets yet. $100 is high, but it's been awhile since I've bought an X-Wing and am totally down for this, especially for the figure.

Rogue One was my favorite disney movie & I'd love to see Hasbro keep doing more Rogue One with Andor coming out soon.  I'd 100% be down for a Haslab U-Wing as mentioned earlier in the thread. Or more Blue Squadron, more of the Rogue crew is a TVC format or even just repaints/rereleases of the Shoretroopers and other army builders.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on November 10, 2021, 01:32 PM
I watched Rogue One again the other day and boy do we need all the Blue Sqaudron pilots.  I hope Hasbro/Disney makes this the next troop builder 4-pack or starts to work these guys in to the Vintage lineup.  They should be able to kitbash these guys pretty good with new heads, helmets, and paint on existing body tooling.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Ryan on November 10, 2021, 02:47 PM
In the same vein, I'd also love to see TVC U-Wing Pilot:

(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/b9/fc/7f/b9fc7f6914c88966bec454f1f0d775ac.jpg)

I feel like they could mostly reuse the X-Wng pilot body, and change out the chest piece, and then just tool the new helmet.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 10, 2021, 02:51 PM
In the same vein, I'd also love to see TVC U-Wing Pilot:

(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/b9/fc/7f/b9fc7f6914c88966bec454f1f0d775ac.jpg)

I feel like they could mostly reuse the X-Wng pilot body, and change out the chest piece, and then just tool the new helmet.

Totally agree, and I'd love to see him packed with a U-Wing (or at least released around the same time as one)!
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on November 12, 2021, 11:55 AM
In the same vein, I'd also love to see TVC U-Wing Pilot:

(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/b9/fc/7f/b9fc7f6914c88966bec454f1f0d775ac.jpg)

I feel like they could mostly reuse the X-Wng pilot body, and change out the chest piece, and then just tool the new helmet.

Totally agree, and I'd love to see him packed with a U-Wing (or at least released around the same time as one)!

I'm holding out hope for a TVC U-Wing.  I think that ship will almost certainly turn up in the ANDOR series on Disney+.  And Blue Squadron pilots?  Bring them on!

What gives me some hope for a TVC U-Wing is how Hasbro handled the T-70 X-Wing.  They released 3 of those basic versions in the TFA and TLJ toy lines.  But then Hasbro released a completely revamped TVC T-70 X-Wing in THE RISE OF SKYWALKER deco.   That pointed out to me that Hasbro is willing to revisit vehicles that had been recent releases with vastly improved versions.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: StBrianOfMinneapolis on November 12, 2021, 05:31 PM
I watched Rogue One again the other day and boy do we need all the Blue Sqaudron pilots.  I hope Hasbro/Disney makes this the next troop builder 4-pack or starts to work these guys in to the Vintage lineup.  They should be able to kitbash these guys pretty good with new heads, helmets, and paint on existing body tooling.

Yeah, I would have much rather had a blue squadron pack then the rebel fleet troopers. Hopefully blue squadron is next.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 15, 2021, 11:18 AM
I watched Rogue One again the other day and boy do we need all the Blue Sqaudron pilots.  I hope Hasbro/Disney makes this the next troop builder 4-pack or starts to work these guys in to the Vintage lineup.  They should be able to kitbash these guys pretty good with new heads, helmets, and paint on existing body tooling.

Yeah, I would have much rather had a blue squadron pack then the rebel fleet troopers. Hopefully blue squadron is next.

That'd be a great use of the troop builder concept. I hope they keep putting those out.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Ryan on November 19, 2021, 05:23 AM
According to Taret’s website oly 1 in 19 store In the Denver Area will carry this, and the one is nowhere close to me. Have any of you not iced your local store getting the X-Wing when target.com list the store as not carrying the item?
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Nicklab on November 19, 2021, 08:48 AM
Target has a promotion on Disney items, and the Blue Leader X-Wing qualifies.  It’s buy two, get one free.  And it’s in stock on the Target website right now.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on November 19, 2021, 09:09 AM
According to Taret’s website oly 1 in 19 store In the Denver Area will carry this, and the one is nowhere close to me. Have any of you not iced your local store getting the X-Wing when target.com list the store as not carrying the item?

In Minneapolis (Target HQ) I've yet to see a store that has shelf tags for this.  It seems to be popping up online and in backrooms where you can order it for pickup.

I did a ship to store a few weeks ago to get mine.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Pete_Fett on November 20, 2021, 06:18 PM
Been able to score four of these and I think that's going to be where I call it. So far I'm going to keep one completely MIB, two I opened so I could take out the TVC carded figure - for now I have left them both carded and on the fourth I have opened up everything.

I typically get two of every figure to open, and sometimes even more if the figure has a vehicle, like this guy, but that would just be silly.

My hope is that they indeed do what StBrian suggested and they do a Blue Squadron pack and General Merrick is included. That way, I can get a couple of those and outfit the three Blue Squadron X-Wings each with a unique pilot.
Title: Re: TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: tmanthegreat on December 4, 2021, 02:26 PM
I’m happy as I managed to find this X-Wing at a local Target this morning 8) I don’t usually do too well finding these type of limited exclusives, but according to Target.com, the particular store was the only one in my area that had the item and there turned out to be two left. While I was tempted to get both, I only needed one so the other can be taken by another collector…
Title: Re: 2021 Target TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Ryan on February 1, 2022, 02:02 PM
Anyone happen to see these in store lately? It seems to have disappeared from Target.com (at least when searched, the page itself is still live). None of the stores remotely close to me ever got this in or had a shelf spot for him.

I really wish this would have been up on Target.com for ship to home instead of just ship to store.
Title: Re: 2021 Target TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Dave on February 1, 2022, 02:07 PM
In Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Targets, I never saw this on the shelf and never saw a shelf tag for it.  I got mine via ship to store.

I'm really surprised this never hit in reasonable numbers ahead of Christmas.
Title: Re: 2021 Target TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: JediJman on February 1, 2022, 02:09 PM
In Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Targets, I never saw this on the shelf and never saw a shelf tag for it.  I got mine via ship to store.

I'm really surprised this never hit in reasonable numbers ahead of Christmas.

Ditto.  Same thing with the wave 2 Holiday themed Black Series figures - I haven't heard of anyone finding those locally.
Title: Re: 2021 Target TVC Blue Leader's X-Wing with General Merrick
Post by: Matt_Fury on February 1, 2022, 02:23 PM
It definitely had some odd distribution.  I was able to find one in Colorado Springs (of course it was way across town) via the website, but I saw on the TVC facebook page a few days ago that there were about a dozen on a shelf at a Target in Anchorage, Alaska!

You would think that in the age of the internet and online shopping, Target could figure this one out.