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Community => Other Toy Lines => Topic started by: Scott on July 29, 2003, 10:38 AM

Title: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on July 29, 2003, 10:38 AM
I saw the Battering Ram set with Uruk Hai and the Catapult with more Uruks last night at Target.

I told myself time and time again that I cannot and will not like these because I don't have room

But holding them in my hands and inspecting them made me drool over the detail that Play Along has put into these little guys

Anyone seen the Helm's Deep Playset...OMG what a masterpiece that is

True too for the Balrog/Gandalf scene which may break me and make me get some of these

I may also just complete a set of the Fellowship and call it good.  Try and finish out the Toy Biz line with some key pieces and be done with it all
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: jadesfire on July 29, 2003, 12:45 PM
I said that same thing, Scott.  I have NO room for another line but I have a feeling when I see the Balrog I'll be moving the school pictures off the coffee table  ;).

Do you remember what the price is on the ones you found?
Have you spotted Eowyn (ROTK) yet?
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on July 29, 2003, 12:55 PM
There was no marker on the shelf and I didn't go to a scanner.

www.KBtoys.com has most of the sets in stock right now
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on July 29, 2003, 10:03 PM
Im having a hard time fighting the urge to buy these. The thing right now keeping me from getting them is the exclusive stuff (SDCC figure pack, Action Figure Express set, a figure from KBToys, and an upcoming TRU set). I dunno though, I may have to bite the bullet and get them...... If I do, it's bye bye Ninja Turtles :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on July 30, 2003, 03:45 PM
Ooh boy, I was tested today big time, the local Target had all of the three and deluxe packs today.  I didn't even look at them, couldn't do it because I know I would end up getting them :'(
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Brian on July 31, 2003, 10:47 AM
I have been considering collect some LOTR figures, although I wasn't sure which line to go with, the Toy Biz one, or these new 3" scale figures.  Are any of you collecting/going to collect these?  Also, is there a good site online that provides information on this line, and what is coming, etc.?  I know there was a great LOTR toy site somewhere, but I can't remember the address now.  Also, does anyone know, is the KBToys deal the only was to get a Gollum figure in the 3" line?  Something about $40 purchase, free Gollum figure...  Anyways, thanks for any help or advice you might have on these toy lines.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on July 31, 2003, 10:50 AM
There are a couple of great LOTR Toy Sites Out There

The Green Dragon (http://www.thegd.com)
Lord of the Rings Guide (http://www.lordoftheringsguide.com)

LOTR Guide has some cool forums, GD has better news

I think you are right mosnab on the Gollum deal, only at KB and only if you order so much AOME stuff

I am passing for now...and probably will on all product.  My wife would be really ticked! :-*

Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Brian on July 31, 2003, 10:54 AM
Thanks for the links OCB, I searched and found the Green Dragon right after posting here, and I'm reading up on some of the stuff today.  I'm not sure my wife would be too pleased either, so I'm not sure if I will collect either line or not, but I would like to collect some of one or the other, not sure which yet.  I thought maybe since I'm just starting now, the 3" line might be easier.  But again, not sure if I can, I know I just picked up my first MOTU figure this week, and I'm not sure if the wife is overly fond of another toy line invading the house alongside Star Wars, and a handful of Marvel Legends :).  Thanks again for the links!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on July 31, 2003, 09:21 PM
Well, bye bye Ninja Turtles, and bye bye Matrix toys.....

I just crossed the line, made the big step, broke down, lost all willpower.....

I just ordered the Action Figure Xpress exclusive AOME Weathertop set. I figured if Im going to break into collecting these, I may as well start with a limited set.

I'll try to take pictures and review it once it arrives
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on July 31, 2003, 11:18 PM
They're making it pretty easy to avoid these up here.  $15 and tax for the basic 3 packs.  Way too much money.  

Which is good and bad.  The scale is nice and manageable to complete the set, but I'd be looking at over $200 or more to do so.  Forget it.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Darby on August 1, 2003, 12:08 AM
I'm resisting the AOME line with all my willpower.

I just don't have the space (or the cash, really) to start another line.  I do like them and if they had come out sooner I would have picked them over Toy Biz (only because of space) but now... sigh.  
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 5, 2003, 04:23 PM
Well, finally saw the three packs and animal/rider sets at Target today. These things are absolutely fantastic! Willpower now officially destroyed :) I came back and ordered from KB Toys.

By the way, spend $40.00 or more at kbtoys.com, and you get a free exclusive Gollum figure, as well as a Moria Orc (aka Goblins) three pack (a ten dollar value). You can also use the promotional code SEARSKBTOYS  to save an addition ten bucks :) I ordered the two scene sets today (Saruman's Chambers at Orthanc, and the Bridge of Kazad-Dum with Balrog). Depending on where you live, it basically equates to free tax and shipping when you use the code, along with the free figures! Very good deal!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Boba Binks on August 5, 2003, 08:37 PM
I have seen these at Target stores. They are neat but I am not sure if I will collect these or not. I did pick up Gandalf on Horse.

I think the RPG people will eat these up for their games. Other than that they are neat little display pieces.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 5, 2003, 09:40 PM
I like them because of the size, its a great scale for big dioramas, it doesnt take up a lot of space, and Im a big fan of miniatures. I also wanted to collect a LOTR toy line, but absolutely hate the ToyBiz line (I dont like 6"+ figures, unless they are McFarlane "figures"). Plus, I always whine and moan about scale, so this line is also fairly top notch. The playsets are off, but I can live with it. Hopefully the line will be successful!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Jesse James on August 6, 2003, 05:37 AM
Man, a part of me wants to buy these up...  I have yet to see them though, but I wonder how they compare to 3.75" figures?

I'm thinking customs of really poseable versions of these figures using some of their existing pieces like headsculpts and weapons.  Hmmm....

They sound great.  I really probably should just ignore this though or I'm gonna be broke.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 6, 2003, 07:18 PM
JJ - They are substantially smaller than 3 3/4" figures.

Got my first set today, so I thought I'd give you guys a little review:

San Diego Comic Con Exclusive Weathertop 3 Pack
Contains: 2 Unique Ringwraiths, 1 Uniqe (exclusive to set) Twilight Frodo

(http://207.44.204.78/photos2/data/562/1Invisible-Frodo-figures-med.jpg?1587)

Ringwraiths:
From looking at pictures, these Ringwraiths are different than those available in the standard retail sets. So if you want more unique Ringwraiths, this set is great :) They are also different from the Action Figure Express exclusive Weathertop set, which contains three Ringwraiths (One may be close though).

The Ringwraiths do not have articulation, but come in very awesome poses. The weapons are also removable, as well as are the bases. The sculpts are top notch, and the paint application is superb.

Twilight Frodo:
Same sculpt as standard Frodo, but in clear "twilight" plastic. A very nice sculpt, also has a removable weapon and base. Not too much paint, because its clear, but there is a little, to give the figure depth and dimension. The base on this figure is a little tricky, and wont hold under its own weight (so if you pick up the fig, the base usually falls off). However, once you stand the figure, it will stay put fairly well.

So, on a ten point scale:

Ringwraiths:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: N/A
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 (no other extras are really necessary)

Frodo:
Paint: 10/10 (for the little paint there is
Articulation: 8/10 (Head and arms, legs on this version dont appear to be articulated)
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 (once again, not much call for extra crap)

I had to pay secondary market price on this, so cant make comments on the price value.

Definately glad I broke into the world of collecting these! :)

So far, the only brick-and-mortar store I've seen these at is Super Target. I visited two other Target stores (one finished with the reset, the other almost done), and neither of them had them. Maybe regular Target doesnt have them?

Also, Toys R Us.com has an upcoming exclusive set (making the number of exclusives 4 so far). It's a Helm's Deep 10 pack, with exclusive King Theoden on Horseback. Looks like a great set, especially if you want to build a Helm's Deep set :)

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00009AA40/qid=1060211427/sr=1-10/ref=sr_1_10/103-6909182-2789420?v=glance&s=toys

The AFX exclusive Weathertop set is still available to order at www.actionfigureexpress.com

The exclusive Gollum is still available for free with $40.00 purchase at www.kbtoys.com

This convention exclusive (will it be at WW Chicago?) set is currently only available on the secondary market. The packaging didnt say anything about SDCC, so maybe you can snag it at WWC.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Darby on August 6, 2003, 07:24 PM
I saw these for the first time today at Target, and after taking one look at them, I was like, "Wow, so not collecting these."  They are significantly smaller than I imagined (I knew they were small, but yikes) and made no impression on me sculpt wise.  The sculpt and paint deco on a lot of the figs I saw left a lot to be desired.

That said, the two Uruk Hai sets (battering ram etc.) left me wondering WHY ON EARTH Toy Biz has yet to make a Helm's Deep Armored Uruk.  A gaggle of kids and Soccer Moms exploded when they saw these, leading me to believe that kids will find this line a much better (and cheaper) alternative to Toy Biz.

I did buy one Gandalf on Shadowfax to put on top of my computer.  Gandalf inexplicably has red hair.   :-\
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 7, 2003, 08:38 PM
Well, on with the reviews! :)

I don't have the Moria Orc pack, Im waiting for my free one from KBToys:



3 Packs:

Ringwraiths:
Contains two black cloak Ringwraiths, 1 Twilight Ringwraith. The two black cloak Ringwraiths are the same as those from the convention exclusive pack.

Ringwraiths:
Same as the above review, outstanding figures, and actually do have a little arm articulation! The ones above do too, but I just noticed. Both swords are unique sculpts!

Twilight Ringwraith
No base with this guy, his robes flair out and make a base (solid on the bottom). This is probably the best painted figure of them all. Incredible paint job, nice arm articulation, and superior sculpt. Cool sword as well!

Ringwraiths:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 (no other extras are really necessary)

Twilight Ringwraith:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 (no other extras are really necessary)



Weathertop:

Contains Frodo, Sam, Ringwraith

Ringwraith:
Unique sculpt, bringing the total so far to three unique Ringwraiths! A more interesting pose as well, showing more under armour.

Frodo:
Same sculpt as Twilight Frodo. Sting sword has little engraving on the blade. Above average paint job. Base is tricky to get to stay on. Articulated head, arms, waist

Sam:
Really neat sculpt with a cool backpack, has a removable sword. Good paint job. Really back heavy though, and the base kind of sucks (we wont stand on it properly) so he ends up falling over if not propped up. Articulated head, arms, waist

Ringwraith:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 (no other extras are really necessary)

Frodo:
Paint: 8/10
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 8/10 because the base sucks

Sam:
Paint: 8/10
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 7/10 for being backheavy, doesnt fit right on base
Accessories: 8/10 for a bad base



Rohan:
Contains Eomer, Eowyn, Rohan Soldier

Eomer:
What a great sculpt! Very nicely done armour! Intricately detailed sword, standard articulation. The armour is painted very well. Probably the second best figure so far (just under Twilight Ringwraith)

Rohan Soldier:
Decent figure with an umcomfortable looking pose. Nice armour and sword and has a cool arm shield. Leans a little bit, because of the pose.

Eowyn:
This figure blows. Not only is it kind of a weird choice, but the sculpt and paint arent so great either. Her hand that should hold her sword is a stubby mit, I had to cut into it to jab the dang sword in there.

Eomer:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: 9/10
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 10/10 for a great base and sword

Rohan Footsoldier:
Paint: 9/10 for being a little sloppy in areas
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 8/10 for leaning
Accessories: 8/10 for a disapointing base

Eowyn:
Paint: 6/10 for being bland and poorly done
Articulation: 8/10
Sculpt: 4/10 for a hand that cant hold the damn sword and loose arms
Accessories: 8/10 for moderate accessories



Rider Sets:

Ringwraith on horseback:
Very awesome figure! Looks like it was taken right out of the movie! The horse is great and looks just as cool as the Ringwraith. Nice removable sword! Figure is permanately attached to horse, and the horse to the base

Ringwraith on Horseback:
Paint: 10/10
Articulation: 7/10 for one arm
Sculpt: 10/10
Accessories: 8/10 for cool accessories, but figure not removable from horse, nor is the horse from the base



Gandalf the White on Shadowfax:
A very cool figure, with a nice pose taken out of the movie. Not really many complaints on this. You can take the horse off the base, but it wouldnt do any good (the horse stands on its hind legs). The bad thing on this is the attempted weathering on Gandalf's hair, which makes it look red.

Gandalf the White on Shadowfax:
Paint: 8/10 for red haird Gandalf
Articulation: N/A
Sculpt: 9/10 because it could use improving
Accessories: 9/10 for a cool staff and removable base



Aragorn on Horseback:
Nice looking sculpt, cool sword and nicely done horse. Base is decent, but horse cant be removed and the base with him is pretty warped.

Aragorn on Horseback:
Paint: 9/10
Articulation: 7/10 for one arm
Sculpt: 9/10
Accessories: 9/10 for a warped base



Sharku on Warg:
A VERY cool figure! Sharku looks absolutely fantastic, and is a good contender for best figure if he was a stand alone. The Warg is also cool, but the paint job is kind of weak. Sharku has two weapons, both removable! No articulation. You can take the Warg off the base though, and it stands pretty well without it.

Sharku on Warg:
Paint: 8/10 because the Warg is weak. Sharku would get a 10/10 though
Articulation: N/A
Sculpt: 10/10 because its top notch all around, well balanced and looks cool
Accessories: 10/10 for having two kick ass weapons and a removable base (and the ability to display the figure and have it look right without said base).

Overall, Im very happy with the entire line! I hate the Eowyn figure, Sam's drunken pose and constant falling pissed me off, and last I checked, it was Gandalf the White, not Gandalf the Red. Other than that, top notch stuff!

Stay tuned for more! My next review will cover Kazad-Dum, Orthanc Chambers, Moria Orc 3 Pack and Gollum.

Also coming soon, Weathertop 8 Pack (Action Figure Express), Helm's Deep 10 Pack (Toys R Us) and as soon as I find the damn things, the Siege Ballista and Battering Ram sets! :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on August 8, 2003, 10:28 AM
Adam, your enthusiasm for this line is slowly sucking me in, got to stop reading these posts :-*  Sounds great!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 8, 2003, 04:59 PM
I'm really happy with the line so far :)

The Balrog from the Kazad-Dum set looks like it will be underscaled though :( I should have one soon

Eowyn still sucks though......
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Ben on August 8, 2003, 09:00 PM
I cracked and bought the Ringwraith on Horse set. It's pretty wicked, but it's hard to screw up something as simple as this.

I like the Frodo/Sam/Ringwraith set. That'll probably be my next purchase. I wanted to buy Gandalf, but he isn't exactly white. Is it so hard to paint a Gandalf the White figure white? It's taken two companies and neither of them can nail it.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 8, 2003, 09:17 PM
Yeah, I wasn't impressed with the red in Gandalf's hair either. I think their goal was to give his hair dimension, but they could have used a less obtrusive color, like gray. I think part of it may have to do with the peach color in his face as well, which could have blended into the hair. Just an explanation though, not an excuse...

And damn that drunken Sam. He wont stand on his own (at least with his base flat on a surface). Also a bit of a problem with Aragorn's horse leaning, but it may just settle and not be very noticeable.

Im actually warming up to the Rohan Soldier though! But the one thing that really sucks is that his head wont turn to the left, so you're going to have an army of right handed Rohan soldiers who also only fight on their right side. He does have nice arm and waist articulation though, and a little handywork might get his head to turn left.

I just wish they'd release character packs and army builder packs. Like the upcoming Elf pack; it will have Haldir in it, which means I have to build a Haldir army if I want an elf army. The only true army builder pack in Series 1 (or 2 for the matter)is the goblin (moria orc) pack. Luckily other packs will have generic army builders, like the TRU exclusive set will have a lot of generics in it. The ballista and battering ram have generic Uruks. Maybe once the line gets in full swing, there will be more completely generic packs. I'm not happy with the fact that there arent any regular Aragorn, Legolas or Gimli figures planned for the first 4 series (although there is a Legolas and Aragorn in Helms Deep armor with the Helm's Deep set). But, they will probably come out with this stuff eventually. I want to build a nice Amon Hen.

The good news is, there will be 4 series by the time ROTK is released! :) 4 Series of 3 packs, 4 Series of Riders, 2 weapons/warrios sets, 4 small playsets, 1 large Helm's Deep set.

Oh, did I mention Eowyn sucks?  ;D
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 8, 2003, 09:20 PM
Did I miss the scene where Eowyn gets all of her fingers on her sword bearing hand cut off, and she galavants around with just a mit and a thumb stub?

(http://207.44.204.78/photos2/data/519/148100__owyn_01-copy.jpg?6006)

What sucks more, as you can see on her left arm (your right side in the picture), her sleeves hang down from each arm, so unless you want gravity defying sleeves, you can only put her in one pose (which in fact, is NOT the pose pictured)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on August 8, 2003, 09:22 PM
Damn you Adam! (And Brent!)  I caved and bought Gandalf, Frodo pack and Ringwraith pack, nothing more I tell you!  Nothing!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 8, 2003, 09:28 PM
You want them aalllllllllllllllllllllllll! AAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLL I TELL YOU! :)

Except Eowyn. She sucks.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 10, 2003, 10:14 PM
Here is an absolutely fantastic set! Even if you dont want to collect the whole line, any LOTR fan would like this:

http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2441159/ctid/17?_ts=y&ls=default

A Fellowship of the Ring 9 Pack! WITH BILL THE PONY! :)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/123264.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on August 11, 2003, 12:53 PM
Yep, definite must buy right there Adam, nothing else damn it!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on August 11, 2003, 12:54 PM
Damn, maybe this

(http://www.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/121110.jpg)

Helm's Deep (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2289479/ctid/17?_ts=y+y+y&ls=toys)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 11, 2003, 03:13 PM
Well, naturally, if you get the Helm's Deep set, you need to get lots of Orcs, Elves and Humans to go with it ;) And the Orcish siege weapons of course.

You'd probably be best off just collecting the whole line  ;D
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on August 11, 2003, 03:24 PM
[jedimindtrick]You will not tempt me any more[/jedimindtrick]
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 11, 2003, 05:55 PM
Haha I'm a toycollector, minda tricks dont work on me, only toys....
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 13, 2003, 11:59 PM
Today I received my exclusive Gollum (KBToys), Moria Orc set, Kazad Dum playset and Chamber at Orthanc set.

Dont feel like going into a big long review, but Ill make a few quick comments:

Gollum:
Great figure, very tiny. Stands pretty well on his base and has a very cool paint job, although he's just a bit too dirty for my liking. A very neat figure. Packaged collectors beware, KB stuck a nice big sticker right on the package, it pretty much covered the entire bubble.

Moria Orc Set:
The best standard figure set of the collection. Three fantastic army builders, all in good solid poses, good articulation, and superb paint jobs. One of them done so well I could remember where it was exactly in the movie. A really awesome set, by far my favorite.

Kazad-Dum:
Very cool, but very small. If you want proper scale, wait for the full Balrog figure to come out, and make your own. The Balrog is not a complete figure, and is built into the background wall (although a very convincing effect).  Other than scale, this is a truly phenomenal set though. The paint on the Balrog is truly exceptional, and the Moria Orc and Gandalf figures (both unique and exclusive to this set) are very cool. Its a great set if you can get past the scale issues.

Chambers at Orthanc:
An awesome set! Looks to be very well scaled, and features Saruman's throne and the Palantir. Comes with a great Saruman figure, Gandalf and Grima Wormtongue, so you can recreate scenes from FOTR and TTT. Saruman can hold both staffs and Gandalf can be balanced on his arm to make the duel scene from Fellowship.

Very awesome sets! A few more days and the two siege weapons will arrive, then it's a short wait for Series 2! :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: MisterPL on August 14, 2003, 10:19 AM
Okay, I found Armies of Middle Earth sets at TRU last night. I can see this line snowballing and I know how I am. I'm totally resisting.

However, had this been a 3 3/4" line ala Star Wars, my Toy Biz figures would be on eBay so fast, you'd all feel the gust through your keyboards.

These look pretty good. I like that they're offered in army-building sets as well as scene specific ones. This is how Star Wars should have been since POTJ. Unfortunately the feet have pegs that fit into the bases, not vice versa. Even though these remind me more of game pieces than action figures, I noticed them creating an undeniable stir in the Boys' Toys aisle.

Now get away from me, vile temptress. I got no room for you!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 14, 2003, 11:59 AM
Well my collection is now up to date :) Got the siege weaponry today!

Orc Battering Ram:

Includes 4 Uruk Hai, battering ram, pike, shield, sword and crossbow. The figures have arm articulation, and hold the battering ram pretty well. The detail is fantastic, complete with little arrows stuck into the battering ram. Great paint jobs, and four Uruks is a great deal!

Siege Ballista:

My favorite piece so far. The ballista itself has all kinds of cool features, from heigh adjustment to turning wheels. It does not actually launch the spear, but makes a great display piece. It includes two Uruks, one is really cool looking, but the other is absolutely astonishing. His armor detail is beyond comparison, his helmet features the white hand of Saruman. It is an incredibly menacing looking figure, and probably the best of the entire line. This set also includes extra weapons: a shield, sword, pike, crossbow and interchangeable tip for the ballista spear.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on August 16, 2003, 11:24 PM
TRU rolled these out in force today.  Wow. :o  Everything that could be there, was there.  The only problem is if I spent $15 I might as well have spent $600 :-\  Nice stuff, the scale could be a lot of fun, but with horse packs at $9.99 and 3-packs at $14.99 and the playsets unmarked (you can't afford it if you have to ask) this just won't be happening for me.  
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 22, 2003, 01:28 PM
Got the Toys R Us exclusive Helm's Deep 10 pack today! VERY cool set! You get Theoden or horseback (he's also removable, but cant be posed any other way), 4 elves (two bowmen, two swordsmen) 3 orcs (crossbowman, captain, swordsman) and 2 Rohan soldiers (same as the Eomer three pack). This is my favorite set so far, the elves are especially cool! Its also a fantastic way to build an army! The set retails for $25

And for our friends in the north, Canadian WalMarts are going to get an exclusive package, so I may have to nag some of you guys to pick one up for me ;)

My ActionFigureExpress.com exclusive Weathertop set should ship soon.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Darby on August 22, 2003, 01:56 PM
BigDumbWookie, are the Uruks in the TRU set the same as in the two big accessory sets (ballista and battering ram)?  The one I want most is the captain, I guess, with the white hand on his helm.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on August 22, 2003, 02:25 PM
Adam,
I should be able to pick it up for you with no problem.  But you should probably give me an idea of what to look for.  These things just fly out of Wally world and to a lesser extent TRU.  
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 22, 2003, 03:39 PM
Morbug - Ill get in touch when it's released, as of right now, not sure when that will be. You guys are lucky though, the figures from the three packs are going to be (or are currently) released in single packs.

Spuffy - The Uruk captain (pointing, like he is commanding his troops), is the same one from the ballista set, with the hand of Saruman on his helmet. The crossbowman Uruk is also from the ballista set. The swordsman Uruk will be available in a Series 2 3 pack with Ugluk and Mauhur
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on August 22, 2003, 03:47 PM
Yes, that's correct Adam.  I've already seen the singles and they sell for $4.99 + tax.  Anything there you need?

BTW, our three packs sell for $14.99, so the price is reasonable for the singles, relative to our sets.  

Mighty, mighty tempting this is.

Anyone needing the convention three pack with Frodo and two wraiths can pick it up at Legendsactionfigures.com, a Canadian store.  $29.99 or so in Canuck bucks and shipping is pretty reasonable.  So around $20 US plus ship.  
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 22, 2003, 03:57 PM
Ouch, that's a pretty high price. If you decide you want to collect them, I'd be glad to help out, if it would be cheaper for me to buy them and ship them to you. I think Play Along Toys has mentioned reworking the Canadian prices as well.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on August 27, 2003, 03:18 PM
Picked up the Battle at Helms Deep set today! This thing is enormous! :) Im still unloading it from the box, but it looks so cool!

It comes with exclusiver versions of Helm's Deep Armor Aragorn and Legolas (where's Gimli? :() and also a torch bearing berserker :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on September 2, 2003, 11:31 PM
Adam, have you figured out what the Canadian Walmart exclusive is?  They have restocked and I have no clue what I'm looking for. ???  Little help :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 3, 2003, 04:01 PM
As far as I know, its not out yet.

From what I hear, its a huge set, like 18 figures and a battering ram and other accessories
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on September 4, 2003, 12:17 AM
 :o

LOL, ok, that shouldn't be too hard to miss. :D
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 4, 2003, 11:21 AM
Not an exclusive, but they are also planning on releasing Army Buckets, with upwards of 30 army building troops, like an Uruk bucket, Rohan bucket, etc
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Morgbug on September 4, 2003, 04:47 PM
is the "they" Walmart Canada, or the manufacturer?  IOW, is this another Canuckian exclusive?  
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 4, 2003, 06:33 PM
They as in Play Along Toys
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:42 AM
Frodo with Fell Beast (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515739/ctid/17/ls/default?_e=3f6b2&_v=3F6B2342RuAVa68F6CCAE5B0)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124529.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:45 AM
Elf Soldiers Action Figure 3-Pack (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515339/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124519.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:46 AM
The Lord of the Rings: 3" Arwen and Frodo Action Figures on Horseback (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515699/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124528.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:47 AM
Shagrat Gorbang and Orc with Mace Action Figure 3-Pack (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515379/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124520.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:47 AM
Aragorn in Gondorian Armor, Royal Guard and Gondorian Bowman 3 Pack (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515299/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124518a.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:49 AM
Faramir Action Figure on Horseback (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515659/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124527.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:49 AM
Eowyn and Merry Action Figures on Horseback (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515619/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124526.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 11:50 AM
Aragorn in Gondorian Armor Action Figure on Horseback (http://www.kbtoys.com/genProduct.html/PID/2515579/ctid/17/ls/default)

(http://images.kbtoys.com/g/toys/big/124525.jpg)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Ben on September 19, 2003, 11:57 AM
OK, this is now officially the greatest toy line ever.
If it isn't, it's getting pretty close.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Brian on September 19, 2003, 12:41 PM
I've really been having trouble deciding which line to collect, Toy Biz, or Armies of Middle Earth.  Since I don't have any LOTR collectibles so far, I'm starting from scratch and could go either way.  I have always wanted a few TB figures, but the AOME are appealing due to a space issue with my collections, and being able to get three figures for about the same price as one 6" figure.  I'm not sure what to do, but both lines are looking great lately...and easy to find thanks to KBtoys.com.  Do any of you prefer one line over the other?
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 19, 2003, 01:58 PM
I just got my Series 2 stuff! :) Havent had a chance to open it yet, but everything looks much better than Series 1, and Series 1 was fantastic.

There are tons and tons of great pictures at KBToys of upcoming sets. The Fell Beast set looks great, and should be near perfectly scaled. It also has a Ringwraith rider (you can see his arm if you look closely).

AOME is shaping up to be an unbeatable toy line.

Mosnab, since you are just getting started, I'd definately recommend AOME. It's smaller, just as much detail, and you dont have as much catching up to do.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 01:59 PM
There are tons and tons of great pictures at KBToys of upcoming sets. The Fell Beast set looks great, and should be near perfectly scaled. It also has a Ringwraith rider (you can see his arm if you look closely).

Sorta like the pictures I posted above Adam  :-*
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 19, 2003, 02:14 PM
What I meant was that there were more in addition to what you posted

Some people....  ::)

 ;D
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on September 19, 2003, 02:16 PM
Ahh, gotcha :-*  Truly amazing...some of this stuff looks so nice it boggles the mind
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 19, 2003, 03:31 PM
That Fell Beast will be enormous...... I hope they release a properly scaled Balrog. Im going to start building a scaled Bridge of Kazad Dum this weekend, should be kind of cool! :)

Got all of my Series 2 stuff opened, and it is all great. Other than the typical problems with the bases, these are really cool, and even better than Series 1. Merry, Pippin and Boromir rock, and details on the Orcs and Uruks is top notch. Haldir is a super figure, and all of the horse and rider sets are great! Plus, all of the riders are removable in this series. Gimli and Legolas come off their horse, and Gimli actually has a fairly decent pose off his horse, even those he's kind of bowlegged (but he does crouch and bend a lot when he fights, so it kind of fits)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Ben on September 19, 2003, 10:58 PM
Does anyone have a problem with keeping Aragorn/Brego standing? Mine keeps falling over.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 21, 2003, 08:30 PM
Does anyone have a problem with keeping Aragorn/Brego standing? Mine keeps falling over.

It's been a problem with a lot of them. Boil the figure, situate into a full upright position, and dunk it in an ice bath. I havent had any troubles with mine since.

The Series 2 Warriors and Battle Beasts are great, but my god, they are all royal ******* when it comes to fitting them on their stands. No problems with them falling though. All riders are also removable! :) Although it hardly does any good. Guess it will come in handy when more Rohimmin and other soldier horsemen come out, so you can swap figures and horses and diversify your army

Army Buckets should be on the way, maybe sometime next year! :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 27, 2003, 02:51 PM
Now THIS is why everyone needs to collect AOME:

(http://store3.yimg.com/I/actionfigurexpress_1761_278967)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: JediMAC on September 27, 2003, 03:12 PM
Now THIS is why everyone needs to collect AOME...[/img]

Damn, that's another beautiful playset for this line Adam!  I agree that this line is excellent, probably due to it's smaller scale which allows for some of these great playsets that it's had so far.  I'd say behind the Muppets line, this is probably my second favorite "other" toyline that I see in the toy aisles.

But I still ain't gonna bite though!  Only SW for me...   :-*
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on September 28, 2003, 09:28 PM
From the looks of things, there is also going to be a Pellennor Fields set which will also include a Fell Beast and Ringwraith, along with Eowyn and Theoden. Cool stuff! :)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: MisterPL on November 20, 2003, 03:16 PM
Is anyone having trouble finding the Ringwraith on Horse (the one posed in full gallop)? I've found a lot of the "just hangin' out" version, but I noticed the "running" version seems to be HTF in my neck of the Shire.
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on November 23, 2003, 10:59 AM
That seems to be a pretty popular one, but I ordered all mine online a few months ago. Very anxiously awaiting wave 3 now!
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: MisterPL on November 24, 2003, 10:04 AM
I was just wondering if it was short-packed for some silly reason. It looks great. (The whole line looks great. Must... continue.... resisting...)
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on December 5, 2003, 04:45 PM
Ive been seeing a lot of Dark Rider on Horse #2 lately. Do you need one?

Has anyone seen any of the 4 exclusive Toys R Us 2 packs? They are a horse/rider packed with a single figure from one of the three packs. If anyone sees them, I could definately use a hook up
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: MisterPL on December 8, 2003, 04:20 PM
Ive been seeing a lot of Dark Rider on Horse #2 lately. Do you need one?

No thanks. But I'll keep an eye out on those TRU sets for you. I went today but didn't notice any.  :(
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: Scott on January 13, 2004, 09:03 AM
http://www.toymania.com/news/messages/4502.shtml

New images of the next few waves :-*
Title: Re: Lord of the Rings: Armies of Middle Earth
Post by: BigDumbWookiee on January 22, 2004, 07:01 PM
If anyone wants to get into collecting these, for not a bad price, let me know. I've decided to sell my collection, and am willing to cut a deal. Just email me at aclowe@tds.net and Ill send you a list of what I've got.