I really don't buy that, Shawn.  One of the biggest toy companies in the world expecting their toys to fail?  Especially after they extended the license for over ten years?  I think it's simply that you have different sculptors working on different characters, with decisions made on how feasible extra joints would be, or look on the figure.

The funny thing about VTSC, and it was the same with VOTC, is that if I don't absolutely love it at first (like the Stormie or Scout, which have nothing to dislike), they grow on me.  The Luke pilot was kinda 'meh' to me at first, but I'm starting to appreciate his poseability.  Take the POTJ helmet and give it to this Luke and he looks even better.

I agree that it would be difficult to not end up with several of the same parts, but imagine the cool trade threads that would result?  I think instead of this they could offer a pack-in Ewok with varying paint schemes.  Just use a small sculpt with minimal articulation to justify the cost.

I'm just about halfway through "The Godfather Returns" by Winegardner.  Mostly takes place between the first 2 movies, and is a good read so far.  Lots of Fredo characterization.  I'll probably read DaVinci Code next.

On a nitpicky note, it's nice to see them getting IMperial uniform colors right finally, and doing so routinely.  Ozzel was all wrong, Tarkin and Motti weren't quite perfect (though Motti's close), but Piett, and now Veers and Jerjerrod seem spot-on to their colors, so that's a major plus to me.

I've seen you mention this before, but I'm still not convinced this pale grey is correct.  I really think it is a hybrid green/grey.  In fact, look at the pic on the front of the Jerjerrod card and compare it to the figure in the blister.  It's really not close at all.  But I'd like to see more reference pics anyhow.

Wow, S_A_Longhorn, I worked at the 281/Bitters GNC store for years in the mid to late 90's.  I still love and miss San Antonio.  There wasn't a Hooters there when I worked there though, but damn, Texas could make beautiful girls!

I got one of each of the 5 VTSC.  Here is my Tusken on Bantha:

I'm going to need at least 3 of those 3PO's for dioramas in which he's sitting.