Yeah, it kind of surprises me how often I see the Hoth Recon pack as well. I mean, I can see maybe why kids aren't as interested in that one (I really think they lean more towards prequels/Clone Wars for the most part), but that's the one I was looking forward to the most. To be honest, none of the new "TLC" battle packs are particularly abundant around here though. Sure, you can find them, but none of our stores are currently overstuffed with any of them. I think the army builder packs do probably appeal more overall, although I do wonder how often parents/casual buyers really grab these battle packs any more. I'm sure there are some, but once you hit that $20 pricepoint, they can get a "greatest hit" video game for the various consoles - which seem to be more popular with younger kids all the time. Its disappointing, but it seems like the window where kids are interested in "toys" is getting smaller all the time. Heck, our nephews are 6 and 8 years old - and really into Star Wars - but once they got a PS2 for Christmas last year all they really talk about is video games. I guess I stayed interested in action figures as a kid a lot longer than that, but maybe I was strange.
Anyways, back to the topic, I think if Hasbro would put out battle packs just themed like "Troops of the Empire" or something with a VOTC/Tantive Stormtrooper, VTSC Snowtrooper, VTSC Scout, and TAC Sandtrooper, they would sell like hotcakes. They could do the same for prequel troops (or Rebel troops, once they get new/better versions done). I can also say that I'm a sucker for the OT "scene" packs like the Hoth Recon and Shield Generator packs, but I might be in the minority there too.