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Collectibles => The Vintage Collection => Topic started by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 02:41 PM

Title: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 02:41 PM
The first installment of Hasbro's new weekly QnA is due to be posted on their website today!

As a preview, listed below are the questions that we (The JD Staff) submitted last Friday, along with the answers from Hasbro! 

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1.  Are you planning to do more of the Evolutions Sets?  If so, when?  If not, why?  They seemed to sell very well and were popular with both kids and collectors alike - we'd love to see more!

** In a movie year, Evolutions was a way for us to include figures with premium articulation in our line. This year, we're doing more of this style figure in the basic assortment, so we did not see the need for a separate line.


2.  Are you planning any more of the Vintage/Premium Figures?  If so, when?

** Not in 2006, but we're looking at the potential for another wave for 2007.


3.  What are the chances of one more Animated Clone Wars Wave (or box set)?  We still need to get C-3PO, R2-D2, Padme (Ilum Snow Gear), and Darth Sidious to round out our sets!

** Characters in Clone Wars are great - and we're looking at ways of getting more of them in the line for 2007.  However any we do will be in "realistic" styling rather than animated.  We’ve done some polling with fans, and overall the realistic style is preferred.

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If you'd like to ask Hasbro a question, you can find all the details on how to do that HERE (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jim on June 9, 2006, 03:05 PM
Just as I suspected pretty ho hum answers IMO.  Probably the cheesiest aspect is that only 3 questions get answered.  Lame :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Morgbug on June 9, 2006, 03:07 PM
I'm surprised the non-animated versions are preferred, I'd have thought otherwise.  Thanks for the post Jeff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on June 9, 2006, 03:12 PM
Nice to see a few answers, thanks for posting Jeff.  I don't expect any "ground breaking" announcements or answers through this Q and A, but its better than nothing.  Curious that there aren't any more "vintage figures" planned for 2006, I wonder if the rumored VTSC2 wave is on hold until next year - or maybe Hasbro's just being sneaky :).

Edit - Just thinking about this a little more, and depending on the shipping times for the Endor/Naboo stuff, you would almost have to think there is something else in store as far as basic figures for this year.  Although I haven't seen them here yet, the Tatooine wave is becoming more visible the way it sounds, leaving just two more waves of figures announced.  Also, with Hasbro saying that the Naboo/Endor hybrid wave is the "last for the Saga Collection in 2006", coupled with the Q and A response saying that there isn't any more VTSC for 2006 - the later half of the year seems a little light on the figures.  Especially considering all the vehicles that are likely coming in the fall/later:

Endor AT-AT (TRU)
Dagobah X-Wing (TRU)
Vader Starfighter
Mace Windu Starfighter
Hailfire/AAT/etc. repacks
Snowspeeder (rumored Target)
Imp. Shuttle (rumored Target)

That's a lot of vehicles off the top of my head, and a lot of them are larger vehicles - seems strange not to have any figures on the shelves alongside them (aside from Heroes and Villains repacks).  Maybe the rumors of OTC2 are true, or something else entirely.  I was really looking forward to that rumored wave of VTSC2, hopefully we'll still see those this year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 03:52 PM
A few more Hasbro answers posted by Toy News International (http://toynewsi.com/news.php?catid=8&itemid=9622):

Highlights:

- There has been a lot of discussion internally on playsets, but Hasbro continues to see diminished demand for playsets.

- Hasbro will re-release a selection of classic Unleashed figures in the fall with four exclusive figures - two figures at Wal-mart and two figures at Target - in an all-new tube-style packaging.


And a few more Hasbro answers posted by Rebelscum (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_STAR_WARS_Weekly_QA_Session_The_Answers_98864.asp):

Highlights:

- There are a lot of great characters created in the EU and Hasbro plans to include some of these for 2007.

- Hasbro holds the Star Wars license through 2018 and hopes basic figures will continue at least through then.

- The 501st San Diego Comic Con figures will be available on HasbroToyShop.com.

- No plans for a large-scale subscription service for basic figures at this time.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on June 9, 2006, 04:17 PM
I want more animated figures from the Clone Wars, not realistic.  :-[
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 04:20 PM
And a few more Hasbro answers posted by SirStevesGuide (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76):

Highlights:

Er... none.   :P

They asked the same Vintage figure question (see our answer), the same EU figures question (see RS's answer), and the same modular playset question (see TNI's answers).  
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on June 9, 2006, 04:22 PM
Great news about the EU figures, i hope we get alot  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 04:25 PM
And a few more Hasbro answers posted by ActionFigs (http://www.actionfigs.com/index.php?categoryid=12&p2_articleid=162):

Highlights:

- Hasbro understands that beast/creature assortments are desirable, but at this time it appears that new vehicle assortments are in higher demand. Vehicles will play an integral part in future line releases.

- With regards to case ratios, Hasbro is constantly updating them to the needs of our total audience - both kids and collectors.  In other words, you're stuck with what they give you.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on June 9, 2006, 04:32 PM
Thanks for pulling these all together in this thread Jeff, that really makes things convenient.  It looks like many of the sites are asking the same types of questions, but its nice to get some information - new or not - about the line and its future.  The beast assortment is something I've often wondered about too - things like the Rancor, Bantha, Dewback, Ronto, etc. haven't been around in a long time - not to mention "smaller" ones like the Taun Tauns.  I know I'd buy a repacked Bantha if they put it out there :).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 04:38 PM
And a few more Hasbro answers posted by Jedi Temple Archives (http://jeditemplearchives.com/content/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=289):

Highlights:

- The UGH figures will not be rereleased.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on June 9, 2006, 06:05 PM
It would be nice if there was some sort of centralized location to keep track of all the different questions and "answers," to avoid as much repetition as possible.  Ideally, it would be Hasbro's own site, but I guess they're trying to support all of the different sites or something.  (Why are they doing this, anyway?  For a company that's barely given the internet fans the time of day over the years, it sure seems like a lot of trouble for them to go to.  Not that I'm complaining, really--just think it's odd, given their history.  I'll enjoy it while it lasts, 'cause it probably won't last for long.)

Anyway, I know there won't be a lot of repetition around here, 'cause we're good like that, but that's not gonna stop some lazy jerkoff at Dumbtroopers.com or wherever from sending in a bunch of questions that the other sites asked weeks ago. . .

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on June 9, 2006, 06:32 PM
"In a movie year, Evolutions was a way for us to include figures with premium articulation in our line. This year, we're doing more of this style figure in the basic assortment, so we did not see the need for a separate line"

Huh?  The basic ROTS figure had more articulation than a basic TSC figure.  Just goes to show that either they don't know what they're talking about, or they just don't get it...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 9, 2006, 06:44 PM
And a few more Hasbro answers posted by Yakface (http://www.yakface.com/yakshasbroqna.php):

Highlights:

- currently only shipping the black suited Clone Pilot in the H&V waves.

- No plans for the Ultra Titanium version of Padme's Episode I Royal Starship, Darth Maul's Sith Infiltrator, or the Invisible Hand in 2006

- no plans for a VOTC Stormtrooper re-release
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on June 9, 2006, 06:56 PM
Thanks for compiling all this info, Jeff. All these answers are exactly what I expected, more of the same stuff Hasbro always says when asked questions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JediShawn on June 9, 2006, 07:02 PM
That VOTC Stormtrooper question was mine, by the way. It was cool to see it answered, even if it was not the answer I wanted.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: iFett on June 9, 2006, 07:42 PM
And a few more Hasbro answers posted by Jedi Temple Archives (http://jeditemplearchives.com/content/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=289):

Highlights:

- The UGH figures will not be rereleased.

That's a relief, but it doesn't answer the question as to if there will be another UGH "wave"
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jim on June 9, 2006, 08:19 PM
I want more animated figures from the Clone Wars, not realistic.  :-[

I was pretty disappointed with that response.  Even though these figs are essentially statues they are attractive to collectors.  I was hoping for at least the Padme snowsuit but really looking forward to another dozen figs or so (young Anakin, Qui-Gon, R2, 3PO, Palpatine, Obi Clone Armor, Battle Droid and a couple Jedi).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Rob on June 9, 2006, 09:21 PM
The VTSC question was mine (it was a no brainer of course).  I'm thrilled that they confirmed that they're looking at doing more of these.  I just hope that it's not one wave for the whole year.  Obviously they aren't going to do a wave every other month, but one for the first half of the year and one during the second half of the year would be good IMO.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 9, 2006, 10:33 PM
I'm ok without a VOTC Stormtrooper released, provided they just pack it on a regular card, like the SAGA2 Sandtrooper.  No reason on earth they can't do that...

Also, as for the Clone Wars figures, I'm so happy (no offense to you animated fans) that they are going to make them realistic movie style.  Besides, the animated ones (other than Clones and Yoda) all seemed to end up on clearance, including the 3-pks.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 10, 2006, 02:33 AM
"In a movie year, Evolutions was a way for us to include figures with premium articulation in our line. This year, we're doing more of this style figure in the basic assortment, so we did not see the need for a separate line"

Huh?  The basic ROTS figure had more articulation than a basic TSC figure.  Just goes to show that either they don't know what they're talking about, or they just don't get it...

Holy hell thank you Steve for that...

Ever since I read that answer, it's stuck in my head that it's either completely uninformed or it's completely full of BS.  I couldn't believe I was reading what I was with that one...

There hasn't been ONE figure in 2006's basic line that matched many of the 2005 basic figures.  Well there was one...  The Utapau Trooper, who is a 2005 figure painted differently.  I found their answer on the Evolutions sets comical then.

Evolutions figures were bordering on perfection, and easily rivaled the Vintage Collections of figures in terms of quality...  Nothing in 2006 has come close.  Even what Hasbro has done "well" hasn't come close to that (AT-AT Driver, Firespeeder Pilot)...  I honestly don't see what they meant with this because it's not true at all, so I'm a bit disappointed with that.

Put me on the list of people who loathes animated figures too...  Well that's maybe harsh to say, but for me I prefer realistic sculpts for figures that mix well with the basic line.  To me the animated line was just another example of Hasbro putting out too many lines...  The Cartoon was cool to me but not cool enough that I wanted its own toy line based on it ine very detail...  If they do CW figures, I want realistic ones that fit seamlessly with the basic line.  That's me though, I'm sure people liked the animated figures, I'm just glad they lean towards realistic sculpts now. 

And last, put me down as hugely disappointed in no VOTC Stormie re-release however I agree that putting him onto basic cards somehow is fine...  Their reply could've just meant he isn't coming out on the VOTC cardback again and all that, as he is obviously being used for the Sandie...  I just hope that's their basic Stormie they offer us sometime in the figure in the BASIC line.  That's just even better of course.  That was a sort of foggy question and answer really.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on June 10, 2006, 03:04 AM
The VTSC Han,Luke & Scout are about the same as ROTS'.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on June 10, 2006, 03:19 AM
Yes, but they aren't TSC Basic figures. Like Jesse said, the only figures who even come CLOSE to having ROTS quality articulation are Sun Fac, Sora Bulq, Leia Boussh, AT-AT Driver, and the Firespeeder Pilot.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Ryan on June 10, 2006, 03:27 AM
The VTSC Han,Luke & Scout are about the same as ROTS'.

All the VTSC is but that wasn't what they meant. The said the basic line, meaning TSC only. VTSC is a seperate line.

Edit: Diddly beat me to it. :)

So one should call Hasbro out on this one in the next Q&A, I have to say I'm severely disapointed in this answer as well. It is crap like this that made DoctorPadawan's thread (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=9566.0) so damn funny. His responses were exactly like the BS answer we got from them here.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on June 10, 2006, 12:53 PM
3.  What are the chances of one more Animated Clone Wars Wave (or box set)?  We still need to get C-3PO, R2-D2, Padme (Ilum Snow Gear), and Darth Sidious to round out our sets!

** Characters in Clone Wars are great - and we're looking at ways of getting more of them in the line for 2007.  However any we do will be in "realistic" styling rather than animated.  We’ve done some polling with fans, and overall the realistic style is preferred.

Great news!  Sounds like I'll finally be getting the "realistic" Clone Wars R2-D2 that I've always wanted!  Thanks, Hasbro!   :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JediShawn on June 10, 2006, 03:22 PM
And last, put me down as hugely disappointed in no VOTC Stormie re-release however I agree that putting him onto basic cards somehow is fine...  Their reply could've just meant he isn't coming out on the VOTC cardback again and all that, as he is obviously being used for the Sandie...  I just hope that's their basic Stormie they offer us sometime in the figure in the BASIC line.  That's just even better of course.  That was a sort of foggy question and answer really.

I did not think my question would have been chosen. Otherwise, I would have put some more thought into it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nirvana on June 10, 2006, 07:52 PM
I didn't like their responses to any of them. Not like I didn't like the info they provided, just that they were stupid, short ansmwers- over half of them were the same response. They also sounded like noobs, too.

Idiots.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 10, 2006, 08:39 PM
The more I think about it, this whole Hasbro Q & A thing is just a waste of time.  It's not going to help the collecting community and is just a weak attempt by Hasbro to look like they are paying more attention to collectors.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nirvana on June 10, 2006, 09:03 PM
Well said, CHEWIE. Exactly how I feel.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on June 10, 2006, 09:38 PM
Maybe we should just ask really, really  open ended questions like "Are there any new Star Wars figures coming out in the fall of 2007?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: obi-dad on June 10, 2006, 09:48 PM
I could not believe I read
Quote
This year, we're doing more of this style figure in the basic assortment, so we did not see the need for a separate line.

I couldn't wait to find somewhere to reply, but Jesse put it better than I could.   I'd like to see Hasbro try this in front of collectors who could yell out BS when they hear it.   I checked about 4 sites and didn't find one answer that really interested me ... well, I think Yakface had a question about "VOTC Stormtrooper without dirt", which they commented was a great idea, but no current plans and one on modular playsets, to which they replied
Quote
There has been a lot of discussion internally on whether this could be successful in today's market. However, we continue to see diminished demand for playsets. If we ever see the landscape changing, It's something we could take a look at in the future.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: obi-dad on June 10, 2006, 09:50 PM
Maybe we should just ask really, really  open ended questions like "Are there any new Star Wars figures coming out in the fall of 2007?

Or how about, based on your figures from 2006, it appears that articulation is something you don't consider important to kids or collectors....  Is that an accurate assumption?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 10, 2006, 10:42 PM
Quote

Or how about, based on your figures from 2006, it appears that articulation is something you don't consider important to kids or collectors....  Is that an accurate assumption?
Quote

I would like to see each site ask them that.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Kit on June 10, 2006, 10:44 PM
More "no's" then "yes's".  Hmmmm, sounds like the capital one credit card commercial with David Spade.  I have to agree with most of you: disappointed, waste of time, kick in the b****.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Famine on June 10, 2006, 10:54 PM
I didn't like their responses to any of them. Not like I didn't like the info they provided, just that they were stupid, short ansmwers- over half of them were the same response. They also sounded like noobs, too.

Idiots.

Tell us how you really feel.

Kevin
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 11, 2006, 12:06 AM
The more I think about it, this whole Hasbro Q & A thing is just a waste of time. 

Hey, I was surprised to see the bastion of positivity say something like this...

If anything, I thought you'd be glad that of the 10 sites or so I've seen post questions/answers, about half all asked about playsets in some form or another.

Sure, the Hasbro asnwer was "not at this time", but maybe if people constantly bring up playsets when QnAs like this take place, Hasbro will finally notice?

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 11, 2006, 01:21 AM
Well I am pretty positive most of the time, but I really think that after what we've seen from them for 11 years now, they just don't have the interest to make the playsets/large vehicles many of us want.  They have their reasons, which is fine.  They also had reasons why they had been slowly killing the 12" line, and they sold it to Sideshow.  I'd rather see a place like Sideshow get a Sail Barge opportunity, or a shot at a Death Star is all. 

I'm not dissing any site or anyone for trying, I'm dissing Hasbro for giving us the shaft with the vehicles/playsets, and then pretenting like it's "new news" to them that people want them made.  They've known we want them for years.  Constantly bringing it up is a good idea, but I think it should be asked for them to please allow Sideshow do some of these, or maybe even Gentle Giant.  Companies with collectors in mind, and you seem to get what you pay for with more expensive items though them.

Could you imagine Gentle Giant making a Mustafar Playset; what kind of a difference in quality it would be?  Hasbro's version looked like a bleeding cow turd.

Even for a similar size playset, a company like Gentle Giant or Sideshow would be able to create something that at least looked realistic.  So I think it can be done, but not by Hasbro, who refuses to try and make collector oriented playsets.  And when they do try something, they half-ass it and say "playsets don't sell."

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on June 11, 2006, 02:51 AM
Agreed about the no thing,if there is juicy stuff Hasbro isn't gonna spill anything for a long time.So I'd expect alot more nos to come.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jediknight760071 on June 11, 2006, 05:49 AM
Quote
We've done some polling with fans, and overall the realistic style is preferred.

When the **** did we get polled? I smell bull****. I gotta find Coleman at CC and bust some skulls.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nirvana on June 11, 2006, 08:11 AM
I just don't like this. It's not anything we haven't heard, it just them spouting off a bunch of BS and they didn't even bother to take the time to reword their answers differently.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on June 11, 2006, 11:54 AM
Call me confused...wasn't the VOTC Stormtrooper bright white and super clean?  What do people mean by a "VOTC Stormtrooper without dirt?"
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 11, 2006, 12:18 PM
They must have been referring to how the VOTC Stormtrooper is essentially used for the SAGA2 Sandtrooper, with dirt on in (and accessories).

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on June 11, 2006, 12:57 PM
Now, before people go off bashing Hasbro, think about the situation optimisticly: We now know for sure that we will see realistic Clone Wars figures, and that the VOTC/VTSC line will go even farther next year. Would you rather not find out this information until next year? I think not. Sure, it may be a load of crap, but at least we learned SOMETHING.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jediknight760071 on June 11, 2006, 02:32 PM
Now, before people go off bashing Hasbro, think about the situation optimisticly: We now know for sure that we will see realistic Clone Wars figures, and that the VOTC/VTSC line will go even farther next year. Would you rather not find out this information until next year? I think not. Sure, it may be a load of crap, but at least we learned SOMETHING.

---- I was a completely disrespectful and foolish youth----

Oh wait, you're right though...Hasbro always comes through on their Q and A announcements. I've never been boned by that company.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 11, 2006, 02:59 PM
No reason to start calling each other idiots, whether we're joking or not.

Anyways, it is good news I think that the Animated stuff won't be coming back... I understand that some people like those, but it seems like such a small niche.  I'd rather see the 3-3/4" line keep a realistic style...

Was the question asked, "Why doesn't Hasbro focus on the 3-3/4" line, seeing that is what sells and so much space at retail is dedicated to other Star Wars lines that everyone knew would flop (Choppers, Force Battlers, small Unleashed)?"

A question I'd like to see asked is why Hasbro went with the 2" Unleashed... if they want to go away from the 7", why not experiment with a 3-3/4" scale Unleashed, using all army builders?  Galactic Marines, Stormtroopers, Battle Droids, etc.

 :)

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 11, 2006, 03:04 PM
Just a reminder that if you'd like to add a question for Hasbro to our list, please post them HERE (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0).

If you post the questions in here, they might get overlooked or forgotten among all the comments...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 11, 2006, 04:12 PM
Here's a nice summary of all the questions/answers for week 1 (with most of the repeat questions removed):

Week 1 QnA In Review (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1150056225,58311,)

If anyone finds another site that posted answers to questions, let me know and I'll add them to the file.   :)

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jediknight760071 on June 11, 2006, 05:05 PM
No reason to start calling each other idiots, whether we're joking or not.

Anyways, it is good news I think that the Animated stuff won't be coming back... I understand that some people like those, but it seems like such a small niche.  I'd rather see the 3-3/4" line keep a realistic style...

Was the question asked, "Why doesn't Hasbro focus on the 3-3/4" line, seeing that is what sells and so much space at retail is dedicated to other Star Wars lines that everyone knew would flop (Choppers, Force Battlers, small Unleashed)?"

A question I'd like to see asked is why Hasbro went with the 2" Unleashed... if they want to go away from the 7", why not experiment with a 3-3/4" scale Unleashed, using all army builders?  Galactic Marines, Stormtroopers, Battle Droids, etc.

 :)



Well if someone has issues I have a pretty hard time holding back. Someone should let them know.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on June 11, 2006, 08:34 PM
One thing that stuck me is that they keep saying there will be lots of EU in 2007.  I'm wondering if they are refering to the forthcoming Clone Wars 3D Animated show.  I mean, isn't everything non-movie EU?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 12, 2006, 12:39 AM
Quote
Someone should let them know.

Yes, and the someone(s) who will are staff, so unless there's joking going on here the staff are unaware of, everyone needs to refrain from namecalling on our forums. 

Speedermike, TV shows are EU too and that's a good point...  Not all these answers are black & white.  I've learned that with anything Hasbro's said publicly over the years actually... 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 12, 2006, 12:45 AM
I did not think my question would have been chosen. Otherwise, I would have put some more thought into it.

Not really your fault Shawn, more Hasbro's...  If they'd wanted to, they could've said "Hey you know what, we ARE re-releasing him actually, and he'll see life again in the basic line this time for army building" or some other answer...  They simply said "no" and didn't really address anything particular about it.

Obviously their answer is half-bull**** anyway because, as others noted, he is re-released (sort of) as the base figure to the new Tat. Wave Sandtrooper...  new belt, little new tooling, new paintjob and accessories, but not a new figure...  So on one hand they say no, on the other hand  we know he can show up in some form or another...  So I lean more towards them saying no to the "VOTC" version of the figure seeing the light of day...  Whether that means his packaging or whatnot makes him VOTC, I don't know, but it at least gives me some hope he sees release in the basic line with maybe a slightly dirty deco on his shoes to act as some paint variation or something.  Hasbro would be foolish (entirely possible) to not release a SA Stormtrooper en masse at some point in the basic line.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on June 12, 2006, 12:58 AM
Yes, but they aren't TSC Basic figures. Like Jesse said, the only figures who even come CLOSE to having ROTS quality articulation are Sun Fac, Sora Bulq, Leia Boussh, AT-AT Driver, and the Firespeeder Pilot.
You forgot Hoth/Bespin Vader & the Utapua Clone,even though you were listing new figures.Th DS Gunner & Ewok Diety 3PO look like ROTS articulation.The only figures that comes close to near ROTS articulation are Scorch who needed knees & ankles & Cody who needed ankled & ball joint arms.Yeah,sort of sucky year for articulation.

Back on topic,I hope Hasbro will milk something big out that hasn't been heard in rumors (4inches.de reported VTSC 2 but for this year). :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on June 12, 2006, 10:25 AM
Thanks again Jeff (and JD) for collecting all the answers from around the web in one convenient place.  Of course, nothing earth shattering, but I guess its nice to at least get some information.  We could have probably gotten most of these answers on our own though, a lot of "sounds good, maybe some other time" that we've heard before.  At least we know that the vintage style figures will continue, although I wish we were still getting that rumored 2nd wave this year (and maybe we are, Hasbro can be sneaky sometimes).  Also good to hear that we'll be getting new vehicles next year, although I'm curious what that will be for sure.  Other than that, lots of doubling up on questions and also answers that were purposely vague.  Sounds like 7" Unleashed will continue, at least in repack form for now, vehicles seem to be a little bigger priority, more Clone Wars figures sound possible - in realistic style (most likely coinciding with the show I would guess), and Evolutions is a "no" right now - since the basic line offers that quality already this year  ::) - not quite sure where they are getting that, and playsets don't sound like a real firm possibility right now either.  Anyways, I look forward to seeing some more answers this Friday.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jim on June 12, 2006, 11:06 AM
Regarding new vehicles I assume we would get another X-Wing and probably a B-Wing repaint.  Maybe the rumored white Tie Fighter ???  And probably a Skiff. 

The one thing that I am happy to hear is that some older Unleashed is being released again.  I am really kicking myself for not buying them.  Sucks for the people that paid high prices for some of the loose pieces of late.   
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on June 12, 2006, 01:46 PM
I kind of get a kick out of some of these answers from Hasbro.  Not that I am surprised but this one below caught my eye: 

"TheJawa: We understand the idea behind rehashing and reusing older figures in the the sets. But is it necessary to use those figures from way back and not the more modern issue (ie Untimate Bounty Hunter set had older Bossk from 1997 and not 2004)?

HASBRO: When putting together sets, we try to use the most current figure available to us at the time, but sometimes the most current figure isn’t always the one that is available for us."

Translation:  We have a ton of certain figures leftoever in our warehouse that we really want to get rid of since we spent all the money to make the molds, etc.  An example is the the POTF2 Bossk.  The new one sold very well and is quite superior to the old version.  However, since we have tons of of the old ones leftover that is the version we decided to try and get some mula back on. 

I am just kidding around.  It's nice to get some feedback even if some of it is a bit on the B.S. side. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 12, 2006, 02:48 PM
A white TIE fighter with the bigger wings would be very cool... no way could I pass that up...

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on June 12, 2006, 03:09 PM
I know this is not where to post this but:
My next batch questions for them. I give them high kudos for attempting this.
Talking to rabid passionate fans is not an easy thing to do. Their marketing teams is really trying to connect with us.

Dear Re-Hashbro (Could not resist)

1. How about re issueing items fans will really clamour for on your website like:
The Rebel Troop Transport
Mini Rigs (Vehicle Energizer, skiff)
Death Star Playset


2. When is the Toyfare Fans choice going to be announced?
(This is way over due)

3. It seems the Target exclusive formula is not performing that well any more. Like the Lava figures, Demise of Grevious are stacked high as well as Skirmish in the Senate set.
Do you think it has anything to do with the veri inflated price and overly reused figures?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ddschneider1972 on June 13, 2006, 03:20 PM
I've been collecting since I was 7, I read a majority of the fan sites daily (the decent non SCUMmy or SirSleezy ones) and I have seen many many many characters requested by the fans. I have NEVER EVER seen anyone request a Naboo Mechanic...One site even did an article to shwo fans exacly where this guy came form....they  had to point him out because no one was sure where he was in the film, let alone did anyone have a desire for the figure. Was the idea to make that figure by the same genious that decided to make choppers? When will we get "Tatooine man #2"? I know it will be before characters integral to the story like, young Owen and Beru.... 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on June 16, 2006, 03:04 PM
So are we due another installment of the Q and As this week?  Hopefully we'll find some further information on the line(s), and where they are headed this year and in the future.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 16, 2006, 04:56 PM
So are we due another installment of the Q and As this week?

Yes!

Here are Hasbro's Answers to the JD Questions from June 9th, 2006:

1.  Articulation is a popular feature on toys for children and adults alike.  Is it possible we'll see things like elbow, wrist, and knee joints become the standard in the Hasbro basic line on all figures, regardless of their role in the films, since poseable toys are popular?

** We weigh each figure based on their individual needs and the costing of the product overall.  If a character has a significant accessory, or is in a multi-pack, we will evaluate that vs. just premium articulation for the sake of articulation. 

2.  With the HUGE success of the Marvel Legends Build-a-Figure idea, is there any chance that we might see that implemented in the 3.75" Star Wars line to get figures (such as Hermi Odle or a new Probot) or maybe playsets (like a Jabba's Dais or Moisture Evaporator)?  

** Not at this time.

3.  What's the story with the Saga Wave 7 Endor Rebel Soldiers that debuted on your website recently - are they shipping at the same time in the same case, are they randomly packed, or will they be a running change?

** They will be a running change.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CorranHorn on June 16, 2006, 05:22 PM
So are we due another installment of the Q and As this week?

Yes!

Here are Hasbro's Answers to the JD Questions from June 9th, 2006:

1.  Articulation is a popular feature on toys for children and adults alike.  Is it possible we'll see things like elbow, wrist, and knee joints become the standard in the Hasbro basic line on all figures, regardless of their role in the films, since poseable toys are popular?

** We weigh each figure based on their individual needs and the costing of the product overall.  If a character has a significant accessory, or is in a multi-pack, we will evaluate that vs. just premium articulation for the sake of articulation. 


Well there we have it, Hasbro has no intention of putting forth the best quality product for both kids and collectors alike. We collectors will get them with the VTSC type figures, because we've already shown we're willing to pay for it, but kids are **** outta luck, groovy...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 16, 2006, 05:56 PM
I'm waiting for Jesse to come in today and see that answer to the articulation question...  :P
Title: Re:
Post by: CHEWIE on June 16, 2006, 06:19 PM
Here's one from Scum that I really liked... and Hasbro had a somewhat decent answer in my opinion for once on this subject.

Rebelscum: Why are many much-desired items (Darth Maul's Sith Infiltrator, the AT-TE and Twin Pod Cloud Car, Playsets etc.) passed over in favor of a ton of new Star Wars lines like Attacktix, Unleashed Battle Packs, Galactic Heroes, Jedi Force, Force Battlers, Mr. Potato Heads, Star Wars Transformers, Star Wars Customs, Star Wars Miniatures? In the past, it's been said that producing things such as are not cost-effective for today's market, but that hardly seems logical.

Hasbro: We look to products that will produce the greatest return on our resource investment. Vehicles and figures are more popular play patterns for the kid audience than playsets, and the lines you referenced are squarely kid-targeted. We are looking to introduce some new 3-3/4” vehicles next year (and re-introduce some high demand ones this Fall).


At least they were confronted why they make such horrible items like the Force Battlers and Choppers, and should be making some better and new vehicles instead.  I think they are starting to realize that there might be more of a market than they thought, if they'd just use common sense.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CorranHorn on June 16, 2006, 06:28 PM
Jeff: I expect Jesse to have a field day with that bull**** answer.

Quote
Hasbro: We look to products that will produce the greatest return on our resource investment

Really? Then they must be getting a great return on their investment of Choppers, Force Battlers, Mini Unleashed, and SW Transformers. Any store I go to has tons of these items sitting on the shelves for months. This is in a large metropolitan area - Chicago - so if things are that bad here, multiply it across the country and you've got crap everywhere. And if the other lines are so kid-targeted why do we always see kids avoiding them like the plague when they're in the toy aisle?!?!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JediShawn on June 16, 2006, 06:41 PM
"Yodasnews: Will we ever see army builder figures packed consistently in cases, regardless of the relevance they may have to the particular "wave" of figures? A considerable amount of collectors love army builders, and to have a few Super articulated Clone Troopers, Stormtroopers (plain white VOTC mold, not dirty like the Sandtrooper #37 from the Saga Collection), Scout Troopers, ect packed in a case would be great.

Hasbro: You bet. This year in fact you'll see more mixing, especially later in the year, and troop builders will be key. However, we haven't created a specific clean Sandtrooper version yet.

YN: Will we see any more Ewoks? Maybe even an Ewok Battle Pack? Maybe a Tusken Raider Battle Pack? Perhaps a Stormtrooper (not Clonetrooper) Battle Pack?

 H: Those are already on our radar, but there is no timetable for them. We have a lot of ideas and not enough space to put them all, but eventually there will be more Ewoks. Probably Ewoks before Tuskens, if that helps..

YN:  Why do we not have the entire line of Star Wars 3" 3/4 product here in FRANCE in our supermarket. Why should we rely on specialized toy shops or the internet to be able to get a complete collection and pay overpriced items ( I mean US customers paid what $8 max when in FRANCE, in US currency, each fig costs $ 13 MINIMUM!) Also why do our neighbors country (Germany and Great Britain ) have the VOTC line in their stores and we could get the George Lucas in Stormtrooper Disguise ?

H: It's up to retailers in EU regions to decide whether to carry the full or a partial line. There are very large collecting bases in both the UK and Germany, so that is why you see more offerings, including many exclusives in these countries. The best I can say is to let your retailer know, that you would like to see them carry more Star Wars collector lines."

The first question is mine. I thought I asked a far better and more understandable question, although they seem confused by my Stormtrooper and Sandtrooper questions.
Title: Re:
Post by: Diddly on June 16, 2006, 06:44 PM
Here's one from Scum that I really liked... and Hasbro had a somewhat decent answer in my opinion for once on this subject.

...

Hasbro: We look to products that will produce the greatest return on our resource investment. Vehicles and figures are more popular play patterns for the kid audience than playsets, and the lines you referenced are squarely kid-targeted. We are looking to introduce some new 3-3/4” vehicles next year (and re-introduce some high demand ones this Fall).[/i]

This answer makes no sense. They don't even answer the question! If vehicles and figures are popular for kids, then why bother making **** like Customs and Attacktix?

Hasbro: You bet. This year in fact you'll see more mixing, especially later in the year, and troop builders will be key. However, we haven't created a specific clean Sandtrooper version yet.

WHEN DID THEY ASK ABOUT A CLEAN SANDTROOPER? Come on, Hasbro!
Title: Re:
Post by: Nicklab on June 16, 2006, 07:23 PM
Here's one from Scum that I really liked... and Hasbro had a somewhat decent answer in my opinion for once on this subject.

...

Hasbro: We look to products that will produce the greatest return on our resource investment. Vehicles and figures are more popular play patterns for the kid audience than playsets, and the lines you referenced are squarely kid-targeted. We are looking to introduce some new 3-3/4” vehicles next year (and re-introduce some high demand ones this Fall).[/i]

This answer makes no sense. They don't even answer the question! If vehicles and figures are popular for kids, then why bother making **** like Customs and Attacktix?

Translation from corporate speak:

CORPORATE STATEMENT:  Hasbro: We look to products that will produce the greatest return on our resource investment.

REAL WORLD SPEAK:  Attacktix, Jedi Force and Galactic Choppers were cheap to make, so we were bound to make money on even marginal sales of these lines.

The bottom line is that Hasbro is a business and will approach these things as such.  The things that may seem as perfectly reasonable to all of us aren't always the best business decision for Hasbro.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 16, 2006, 07:44 PM
Well the way I read that statement was:

(1) They are re-releasing some in demand vehicles this fall (like the Hailfire Droid, AAT, and AT-AT)

(2) They are going to try and make an all new vehicle or two for 2007

We already know those sublines like Choppers and Force Battlers are targeted at kids, and they said that.  In their answer they seemed to be hinting that they still think that the 3-3/4" line should be targeted towards kids too... hell if I know for sure what they mean though.

I just hope how they said to introduce a new vehicle, it might be an AT-TE.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on June 16, 2006, 09:08 PM
At least Hasbro came out with some honestly.  They don't feel like articulation is needed, they will give us a new vehicle or two but 1st some repacks (although these are cool repacks).

They stated their intent to screw us until 2018. :o
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JediShawn on June 16, 2006, 10:09 PM
I think Hasbro gave some great details and far better answers this week, with the announcement of more army builders being shipped later this year, the Curved end of the Cantina, possible electronics on new Starfighters, Commander Bacara's Marines in early 2007, and more Vintage-style figures, both Prequel and Original Trilogy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 17, 2006, 02:38 AM
Oh Jeff and Jason...  You know me too well. ;)

Actually it's about what I would have expected for the question...  The point is though that the question is asked, and similar questions will be asked again, and again in the future I'm sure.  The answer is a bit of bull**** though in that it simply doesn't answer the question in any real way.  Articulation's popular with young and old alike, so hows about we focus less on stands and miniatures as pack-ins and other random junk, and instead let's focus on a better toy.

It never addresses though, that "standards" can improve.  Knees, wrists, elbows...  It simply glossed over that part...  Not to mention that past precedent shows us figures with "articulation for the sake of articulation" (Cantina Wave among many 2005 figures) didn't seem to have any outside influence from the character or his/her accessories. 

There are some good answers this week though for certain...  Some bull**** ones too.  The big H is hardly reliable for anything different. :)

The army builder remixes are interesting to me...  I hope that means good stuff for figures like the Sandtrooper or Utapau Clones...  I mean, the Clones weren't TERRIBLY hard to find, but they sold fairly brisk too.  I don't see any here anymore unless a case with them just happens to float out.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on June 17, 2006, 03:52 AM
It would be nice if there was some sort of centralized location to keep track of all the different questions and "answers," to avoid as much repetition as possible. 

Anyway, I know there won't be a lot of repetition around here, 'cause we're good like that, but that's not gonna stop some lazy jerkoff at Dumbtroopers.com or wherever from sending in a bunch of questions that the other sites asked weeks ago. . .

JD question from June 9:

Quote
3.  What are the chances of one more Animated Clone Wars Wave (or box set)?  We still need to get C-3PO, R2-D2, Padme (Ilum Snow Gear), and Darth Sidious to round out our sets!

** Characters in Clone Wars are great - and we're looking at ways of getting more of them in the line for 2007.  However any we do will be in "realistic" styling rather than animated.  We’ve done some polling with fans, and overall the realistic style is preferred.

Galactic Hunter question from June 16:

Quote
GH: Can we expect to see more Hasbro action figures from the Clone Wars Animated Series? If so, what is the rough timeline?

HASBRO: We do have plans for some of these characters in 2007, but we won't be announcing the specifics just yet.  However, any we do will be in "realistic" styling rather than animated.  We done some polling with fans, and overall the realistic style is prefered over the animated style so we are going to stick with that.

(http://images.dvdtalk.com/images/smiles/banana.gif)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on June 17, 2006, 08:28 AM
Not that happy with this weeks answers, no Lars family planned  :-[
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 19, 2006, 04:36 PM
It's a mix...  Their answers on articulation are still a bit of BS to me, plus I'd like to know how they can give an answer with a straight face like, "Well when a toy has a large accessory like the Cantina U Bar Piece...", when they're trying to explain why they short figures in poseability.  I mean, great if your'e gonna give us that, but when was the last time a LARGE accessory was a pack-in?  A year and a half ago or so?  The Outlander Wave maybe? 

Anyway, there was some cool stuff in this week...  Some not so cool stuff...  It's been an interesting mix of up and down with them.  Sometimes you can clearly see you're getting the corporate run-around in their answers and other times you actually get a nugget of joy (Galactic Marine in '07 is probably the biggest news to come out of them in ages). 

I liked the news on army builder remixes towards the end of the year too.  I was thinking that, perhaps there would be some repacking done to satiate demand and hopefully it's done wisely...  Sandtroopers are in incredibly short supply, and to be honest the Utapau Clone is not warming pegs in the slightest...  I see at most 2 anymore, but man that is a Clone that's sold well this year.

The vehicles question has me somewhat intrigued too...  Could be some great stuff there, could be some disappointment... 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 23, 2006, 04:17 PM
A new week, a new batch of answers (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1151093678,4098,)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on June 23, 2006, 04:24 PM
bull****ing****

They announce the Galactic Marine last week who is also in the same god damned poll and waffle on Willrow Hood

Throw a dawg a bone ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 23, 2006, 04:33 PM
They announce the Galactic Marine last week who is also in the same god damned poll and waffle on Willrow Hood

Throw a dawg a bone ::)

No doubt... I guess maybe that means... he's the winner?!?   :D   :P

It was worth a shot though just to point out to them that ICMG needs to get made sooner rather than later.   ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Morgbug on June 23, 2006, 04:37 PM
Quote
Aha - a trick question! Toy Fare will unveil the winners of the Fan's Choice poll in their issue that will be hitting stands the week before Comic-Con. Check the issue in a few weeks to see if Willrow Hood is a winner.

Have they confirmed there will be multiple winners or is there a single winner? ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on June 23, 2006, 04:39 PM
. . .Just what I was getting ready to ask.

I've always been under the impression that there was to be just one winner, but that answer makes it seem like there will be several.  Great news for Willrow if true.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on June 23, 2006, 04:41 PM
Yeah, there must be more than one winner, because I don't know why else they would say that's a "trick question". ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on June 23, 2006, 04:42 PM
After all the months of voting, I think he'll win. And their answer just seemed to hint that he won (or will be made). If he DIDN'T win or he WASN'T going to be made, they would have said something like "He's not in our plans for 2007" or "He might be made eventually, but we're going to focus on other characters before we make him".


Just bein' optimistic! :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jim on June 23, 2006, 05:18 PM
Reviewing the different questions from the other sites this is what I came up with .  Any question that was answered:  "you will have to wait for Comic-Con for the answer" tells me that it will be made.  So heres what will most likely be announced  there.

1. More concept figs
2. Multiple Fan Choice winners
3. More Clone Commando Figures (repaints?)





Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on June 23, 2006, 06:30 PM
Any of those 3 would rock! 8)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on June 23, 2006, 08:26 PM
Also, the mention the 2008 animated series a few times.  We knew it was a no brainer, but they are obviously gearing up for a huge line of figs for that show.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jim on June 23, 2006, 09:10 PM
Has it been confirmed with the Q&A's if they will re-release more 7" Unleashed figures?  Maybe similar to the HOF line? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 23, 2006, 09:48 PM
Has it been confirmed with the Q&A's if they will re-release more 7" Unleashed figures?  Maybe similar to the HOF line? 

Confirmed by Hasbro in the week 1 QnA results from Toy News International (http://toynewsi.com/news.php?catid=8&itemid=9622):

Quote
Hasbro will re-release a selection of classic Unleashed figures in the fall with four exclusive figures - two figures at Wal-mart and two figures at Target - in an all-new tube-style packaging.


The Target ones are rumored to be Boba Fett and General Grievous.
The Wal-Mart ones are rumored to be Darth Vader (Version 1) and Yoda/Emperor.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ddschneider1972 on June 23, 2006, 11:36 PM
I have a question for next week:
Dear Hasbro,
After Comic-Con will 75% of your answers be "You'll have to wait and see at C4!"
-Dan
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on June 24, 2006, 08:38 PM
Hasbro:  "We cannot comment about that at this point in time"

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 25, 2006, 02:41 AM
Another nice wrap-up Jeff, it condenses it conveniently for certain...

Go Wilrow...  As it stands, a lot of the figures in the fanls are getting made anyway (or several, maybe not a "lot"), so I can see them saying F it and just bumping a whole lotta the finalists (if not all of them) up as possible new figures...  As it is they have implied at the very least that the "fan demand" gathered in the vote was valuable to them...  I'm smellin' ice cream baby!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 30, 2006, 11:57 AM
I just got our answers for this week...

ATTENTION JesseJames:

DO NOT READ THIS WEEKS ANWERS... or, at least make sure you have paramedics standing by when you do.   :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 30, 2006, 12:01 PM
I just got our answers for this week...

ATTENTION JesseJames:

DO NOT READ THIS WEEKS ANWERS... or, at least make sure you have paramedics standing by when you do.   :-X

Do I sense a new Rebel Fleet Trooper brewing?

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 30, 2006, 12:02 PM
Do I sense a new Rebel Fleet Trooper brewing?

Quite the opposite, unfortunately.   :'(
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 30, 2006, 12:05 PM
DAMNIT!!!   :-\

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on June 30, 2006, 12:10 PM
Hahahahaha!  I just read that on the main page and came here to see JJ's response!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on June 30, 2006, 04:05 PM
I have to say that this week Hasbro's answers are my favorite.  The RFT is pretty darn good.  Which RFT is that, He-Man Fleet Trooper or swirling action one?

That ball elbow joint answer really hurt me, deep down, where it counts.  In other words, deal with it boys and girls.

So if they are not going to share info on upcoming stuff what is the point of this Q&BSA?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on June 30, 2006, 05:43 PM
I feel the same way.  I was for it at first, then totally against it, then changed my mind and hoped they'd address some of the questions that I have, yet it's looking to really be a complete waste of our time, which is sad because I know a lot of people are hoping they will shed some light.

We pretty much already know the answers to most of the questions before they are even asked unfortunately.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on June 30, 2006, 06:08 PM
I think the answers have been something of a mixed bag.  We've gotten some answers, but they're not crystal clear.  They're vague answers that pertain to the line in general. 

We've gotten some good answers with regard to the vehicle line.  There has been a lot of speculation as to whether or not Hasbro would ever make another new vehicle sculpt.  Thankfully we got a positive response to that, and there seems to be some buzz as a result of that.  But we got a less favorable response with regard to playsets and the articulation issues.  Predictably, the answers are related to cost and profitability.  I applaud Hasbro for being honest in this case.  They didn't give us the answers we wanted, but then again they aren't lying about things either.  Frankly I'd rather get the truth and know the reasons why than be lied to.

One thing that I think has been a bit of a trap with the Q&A's?  Character selection.  I think Hasbro is very hesitant to announce ANY characters in the line that haven't been finalized.  They did confirm the Galactic Marine, but in that case it's a figure that could be on the pegs as soon as November or December of this year, so the development process is over and it's most likely in production now.  But thinking further ahead, it seems that the Basic Figure line is much more fluid than we might think, and Hasbro is rightfully cautious to hold back that kind of info.  The Galactic Marine is probably on retail order sheets at this time so the information is already out there.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on June 30, 2006, 06:26 PM
The answers to the articulation issue actually don't surprise me much...  A ball/socket joint as Hasbro does it is an injection molding process that is more complex than the simple angle-cut articulation, that's without a doubt...  The disappointment in their answer is they basically are telling you "F you" by saying they won't strive to make the line as good as it can be.  That's how I read it...  As it costs more, my sympathies go out, but at the same time we're seeing clearly an issue where Hasbro will cut corners to save themselves at the cost of the line's overall quality.  They were honest about that at least, but still that's the answer we're getting and as the consumer of this line, we really have every right in the world to cite their bull**** response as nothing but poor work on their part.

On the issue of the Rebel Fleet Trooper, it's pretty well known that Hasbro loves the smell of their own farts so are any of you surprised?  I mean, Cantina Han makes a reappearance how often even after VOTC Han's available.  The "Imperial Trooper" from the OTC line was obviously another instance where Hasbro had something better to offer but chose to do the opposite...  TIE Pilot pack-in anyone?

Obviously they feel their work is pretty flawless no matter what...  I disagree on the Fleet Trooper.  Purdy to look at sure, but poseable (the point of that question)?  Not even close.  Nowhere in the ball park of today's modern line...  For them to imply otherwise is just their usual rhetoric, but at least the point's been made to them that not everyone agrees with them.  The Fleet Trooper's unposeable arms, barely poseable legs, bent ankles, caved in chest, glued-on helmet, half-assed holster, and other flaws don't make it nearly a high quality figure to me...  But Hasbro would say "but it is a nice sculpt".  I'd say it's a fair sculpt (nice is giving it too much credit I think), but for poseability they simply aren't even in the ballpark with that one. :)  As an army builder, I think it deserves some better work from Hasbro.

But believe me, I wasn't surprised. :)  None of the Q&A's have been a huge surprise actually...  I think the biggest was maybe the Galactic Marine announcement, and that was about it.  The rest has been fairly routine.  At least the implication in the answer is new troops may be on the horizon...  They didn't discount the RFT either, and I'm sure deep down they recognize flaws when they see them, they just don't enjoy admitting to it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on June 30, 2006, 10:55 PM
As is usually the case with Hasbro's half-hearted attempts to "reach out to the fan community", it's taken three weeks for it to become completely useless, rampant with the canned "We can't talk about that yet!" and "No plans at this time" answers to rather long and involved questions.  It's the equivalent of asking about a complex calculus theorum and the professor saying, "YES!  NEXT QUESTION!"  ::)

I'm exaggerating here, but it's sad that Hasbro's real Q&As lately are starting to resemble those fake ones I was involved in last fall.   :o
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 1, 2006, 12:56 AM
It'd be a shame to let this little nugget of a question (and answer) from Sandpoopers to go unnoticed this weekend:

Sandpoopers sez:

What is Hasbro planning on doing to make purchasing their product more fan/collector friendly? (ST, 6/30/06)--have to be logged into their forums to read (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=5183.msg73217)

Hasbro replies:

Can you please elaborate?

I say:

There's just so many jokes in there, I don't even know where to start.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on July 1, 2006, 01:23 AM
I guess having SW toys at KB, KM, TRU, WM, Target...  And then at Entertainment Earth, etc...  And then stores I've never been in like those Meijers stores and stuff...  I guess that's not enough?  ???

If they're looking for Hasbro to step up to the plate themselves I don't think they've been around the last couple years while Hasbro has run their own shop then either...  They're hardly a great source nor will they ever be.

I don't know if Hasbro was being funny with their reply or serious.  They need emoticons as much as the rest of the internet community I suppose.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on July 1, 2006, 03:03 PM
Yeah, that Sandpoopers question is a bit odd.  I think that this year, more than any other, the product has been out there and ready to buy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on July 1, 2006, 03:19 PM
Yeah, that Sandpoopers question is a bit odd.  I think that this year, more than any other, the product has been out there and ready to buy.

Well, consider the source of the question  ;D .  Hasbro has actually done a lot to get product out.  Between the presence at retail plus online stores INCLUDING Hasbro's own online store, this seems like something of a wasted question.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on July 1, 2006, 03:22 PM
Not these guys: Boba Fett,AT-AT Driver,Scorch,Utapua Clone,Cody,Firespeeder Pilot & Sandtrooper.Well,from what I hear & my life. :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 1, 2006, 03:53 PM
I guess having SW toys at KB, KM, TRU, WM, Target...  And then at Entertainment Earth, etc...  And then stores I've never been in like those Meijers stores and stuff...  I guess that's not enough?  ???

I dunno. . .  I think there oughta be a Hasbro Rep employed at all of those stores who pops up from under the counter and gives me a hummer whenever I buy, say thirty-dollars worth of Hasbro Star Wars product.

Now that would be collector-friendly.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on July 1, 2006, 04:51 PM
LOL.We'd all have a lot a hummers then.Maybe bring up the points for a figure thing again.That'd be worth the price instead of coins & holos. ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Ryan on July 1, 2006, 07:20 PM
LOL.We'd all have a lot a hummers then.Maybe bring up the points for a figure thing again.That'd be worth the price instead of coins & holos. ::)

You do realize he wasn't talking about the SUV, right?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on July 1, 2006, 11:05 PM
The hummer idea is not bad but I have never seen a Hasbro Rep at a store or anywhere else that did anything for me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on July 2, 2006, 03:54 AM
Quote
LOL.We'd all have a lot a hummers then.

I'm already in for this plan... 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 3, 2006, 11:46 PM
I don't know if anybody caught it, and I don't know if anyone cares anymore (thanks to MR's FX sabers), but in this week's Q & A, Hasbro revealed more about their new, spring-loaded role-play lightsabers that will be coming out this fall.

They're called "Force Action Light Sabers," and there's gonna be four of them--Vader, Obi-Wan (which I assume is Episode III and IV version), Luke's (dad's) blue saber, and a generic green Jedi saber.  The first three are due in October, and the green one will follow in November.

I've always been a fan of the role-play stuff, so I'm looking forward to seeing how different these are from the current sabers.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on July 4, 2006, 01:56 AM
I noticed it actually but RP stuff doesn't tickle my fancy much so I guess I just glossed over it.  It's interesting though if they've figured out how to combine a completely collapsing blade with a light/sound mechanism as good and strong as the ones currently used.  Kind of a breakthrough for them considering how long they've milked the current sabers they have afterall.

If they look really nice (the hilts aren't TOO huge) I'll maybe get one to replace my Vader one I bought to mess with the kids.  Makes a great "get me a beer" stick.  :)  (j/k...  well, sorta)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on July 4, 2006, 11:51 AM
I'll pass on the role play stuff, but I know a lot of people enjoy it.  Give me more attention to the 3-3/4" line and I'm happy.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on July 6, 2006, 09:50 PM
I'll pass on the role play stuff, but I know a lot of people enjoy it.  Give me more attention to the 3-3/4" line and I'm happy.

 :)

Chewie, right on.

But the current trend with all Boys action toys these days is role play. Its a new staple of EVERY figure line. They are more popular than evr before. Just look and you will see.
I do not mind the sabers at all, its the choppers, mini unleashed, the now defunct force battlers. Those things are the real waste of tooling dollars that would be better spent on 3.75 stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 10, 2006, 10:13 AM
I don't know if anybody caught it, and I don't know if anyone cares anymore (thanks to MR's FX sabers), but in this week's Q & A, Hasbro revealed more about their new, spring-loaded role-play lightsabers that will be coming out this fall.

They're called "Force Action Light Sabers," and there's gonna be four of them--Vader, Obi-Wan (which I assume is Episode III and IV version), Luke's (dad's) blue saber, and a generic green Jedi saber.  The first three are due in October, and the green one will follow in November.

I've always been a fan of the role-play stuff, so I'm looking forward to seeing how different these are from the current sabers.

RS  (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Force_Action_Lightsabers_99198.asp) now has images of the first three Force Action Lightsabers, boxed and loose.

The hilts look better, but the blades look dinkier.  And for Kenobi, they went with the Episode I and II hilt, but have Episode III Kenobi pictured on the box holding his Episode III saber.  Odd.

Eh, those kids won't notice.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on July 10, 2006, 10:18 AM
HUH???


The hilts are regular size, but the blade could suit a 12" inch figure! I thought the original concept was cool, but now I realize they are total and utter crap.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on July 14, 2006, 04:10 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 6/30 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1152907321,75646,).  :)

And, just a note that Hasbro is skipping the QnA again next week (because of Comic-Con and the live QnA).  We should be back on the weekly track though during the week after SDCC (7/28).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on July 14, 2006, 04:17 PM
Thanks for the heads up Jeff.  The first two questions were ones I was really looking forward to them answering someday.  Not the answers I hoped for, but nice to see the questions addressed.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on July 14, 2006, 04:42 PM
Weren't we supposed to get double the answers this week since they skipped last week? Or is that another case of Rebelscum lying to us?

Interesting questions this week anyhow, and some actual answers for once.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on July 14, 2006, 07:34 PM
I loved the question about sub-contracting out the playsets.  It was subtly snotty; almost a way of trying to make Hasbro agree that they're not capable of making product of that type!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ddschneider1972 on July 14, 2006, 08:24 PM
Will someone ask this question next time:
Why did you let an intern design the new packaging?
...and not even a graphic design intern?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on July 15, 2006, 02:00 PM
I'm waiting on them to actually answer a question with something other than a variation of "Wait and see" or "Stay Tuned!" or 'Wow that's a lot of questions in one that we are going to deftly ignore!"   ::)

I can't remember who said it earlier in this thread, but I wonder what they're going to say (if anything) in the post-SDCC Q&As considering that at least half of their answers so far to things have been "Wait until SDCC."

They are toys, Hasbro, not classified government secrets.  The world will not implode if you say that the rest of Delta Squad will definitely be made and that a V-Wing and Sith Infiltrator are on the list too. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 15, 2006, 04:46 PM
I'm waiting on them to actually answer a question with something other than a variation of "Wait and see" or "Stay Tuned!" or 'Wow that's a lot of questions in one that we are going to deftly ignore!"   ::)

Have you seen their new answer to questions about the whereabouts of specific figures? 

Quote
". . .we won't be able to answer specific questions like this in the future ("When is character X going to be made?" or "Will character X be made?") unless we are close to announcing a specific wave or product."

They used that canned-response no less than three different times this week.

Good stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on July 15, 2006, 04:47 PM
And it can't be a "Trade Secret"...Hasbro has an exclusive contract for 3 3/4 in Scale figures (and most other sizes too).  I'm sure there is a legitimate answer for it, but I it would take somebody with a business degree to explain it to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ddschneider1972 on July 15, 2006, 04:49 PM
I can't remember who said it earlier in this thread, but I wonder what they're going to say (if anything) in the post-SDCC Q&As considering that at least half of their answers so far to things have been "Wait until SDCC."

Well, Doc, they'll be saying "we'll answer that at Toyfare '07", followed by "We'll answer that at C4", followed by "We'll answer that at Nerd Prom '07*"

*San Diego Comic Con
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 15, 2006, 05:10 PM
Here, check this out:

---

Why does Hasbro not want to discuss specifics in regards to possible upcoming products when Hasbro has no competition for making Star Wars action figures? (SSG, 6/16/06) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76)

Excellent question. We manage the flow of information for a variety of business reasons. One advantage to the plan is that we always have upcoming news and collectors don't get bored. When the public knows the line too far in advance, there's a tendency for items new to the shelf to seem old if the line list has been out there for months (case in point last Toy Fair, when our line list was well-known, and the criticism was that there was "no new news.").

---

Of course they don't have any direct competition or anything.  It's just that it's better for business to do it this way, because it keeps people interested.

I wish they'd blow their wad for next year's stuff, too, but that's just not how it works, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on July 15, 2006, 06:22 PM
I wish they'd blow their wad for next year's stuff, too, but that's just not how it works, unfortunately.

Well (and this might be the only time I ever say this), Hasbro's answer makes sense, even if it is a bit frustrating to have them constantly avoid actually answering any of the questions the various sites are asking them. 

While I greatly appreciate your collecting everything in an easy-to-read and easy-to-navigate form, Matt, just going over the list it looks like the questions are becoming more and more repetitive and the answers are becoming less and less congenial (the "we will no longer answer questions like this in the future" comment comes across as really, "We ain't tellin' ****, so stop askin'" to my eyes).  With Hasbro basically saying they won't answer any questions regarding upcoming products specifically, I'm wondering what the point of asking them anything is at this point.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 15, 2006, 06:36 PM
While I greatly appreciate your collecting everything in an easy-to-read and easy-to-navigate form, Matt, just going over the list it looks like the questions are becoming more and more repetitive and the answers are becoming less and less congenial.

Would you believe the list is just as much about keeping track of the all repetition (for both Hasbro and the different websites), as it is keeping track of any real news?  If it wasn't, I'd never have put all the similar questions and responses in there in the first place.

(By the way, anyone know if Hasbro has any plans to release any new playsets anytime soon?)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on July 15, 2006, 07:44 PM
This Q/A thing is just supposed to show goodwill to the collecting community IMO.  Which is fine. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 15, 2006, 08:05 PM
Oh, I think it's great--I honestly do.  It's literally been years since they last tried to have any kind of an open back-and-forth with the online collecting community (anyone else remember Jen@Hasbro?  No?  Well, that's how long it's been.)  So that they're doing this comes as a pleasant surprise, even if they've been less-than-forthright and redundant with their responses.  That's what's funny about it, to me--it'd be like a politician holding their own press conference, and saying "okay, go ahead, ask me anything," and then responding to most of the questions with "no comment."  What's the point, then?

But, the way I look at it, a half-assed effort is still better than no effort at all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on July 16, 2006, 12:44 AM
I think the half assed effort is a complete waste of our time to put it bluntly.  I understand some people have enjoyed it, but really don't think it's benefited anyone, which is too bad with all the work the various staffs have put into bringing news to the community.  Staffs and forum members have worked harded on this than Hasbro has in my opinion.

At first, I thought the whole thing was silly.  Then I had a change of heart regarding playsets, thinking if they shed some positive light in that direction, then I'd be happy to at least get some good news.  Now I am realizing once again that all this hype is just a red herring.

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Kit on July 16, 2006, 06:06 AM
I like the fact that as each week progresses, hasbro tries to make the answers sound more human by responding with "Excellent question but, or interesting idea but....".  It's almost like talking to a customer rep. over the phone with scripted answers. ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on July 16, 2006, 12:26 PM
If the staffs at some of these other sites would spend more time looking at what the other sites asked instead of if the other site was "flaming" them in the forums, we could actually get away from every week a question being asked about Playsets, Freakin Republic Commandos or the 2 film frame waste of plastic Tonnika Sisters, as many sites that there are asking questions, if there was some co-ordination, we could actually get some answers every week.  Ask the questions in a manner that "Wait till Geek-Con"  type answers are not possible.

I'm glad the staff here actually thinks before they submit the questions.

If I was the hasbro Janitor/intern that they let answer these questions, I'd give the canned answers too.  My stock answer would be this:

"The status of (insert Random Prequel Jedi/Clone/Alien/Pod Racer) has not changed since last week.  Thank you for your diligence and inability to accept my answers from last week, and the previous 3 weeks when other sites asked the same damn question.  Please ask the question again next week, as I am sure you will."

Has anybody thought of running with a series of questions with follow ups etc?  Almost interview style?  Alot of the answers that they seem to be giving have just begged for follow ups, if nothing else to pin them down to an answer, or let them talk themselves into a corner.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 16, 2006, 11:57 PM
I think the half assed effort is a complete waste of our time to put it bluntly.  I understand some people have enjoyed it, but really don't think it's benefited anyone, which is too bad with all the work the various staffs have put into bringing news to the community.  Staffs and forum members have worked harded on this than Hasbro has in my opinion.

At first, I thought the whole thing was silly.  Then I had a change of heart regarding playsets, thinking if they shed some positive light in that direction, then I'd be happy to at least get some good news.  Now I am realizing once again that all this hype is just a red herring.

 :)

You're just bitter that they're not doing any $200, five-foot-long "Random Death Star Corridor" playsets. . .

:)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on July 26, 2006, 05:12 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 7/7 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1153948132,39400,).  :)

- Battle Droids and Flimsy Plastic?
- better accessories in 2007?
- a new Speederbike?


Again, just a reminder that Hasbro skipped two weeks (7/14 and 7/21) due to comic con so the next update should be on 8/4.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on July 26, 2006, 08:42 PM
Great questions put forth by the JD readers, as always.  I'm finding the Battle Droid comment to be a little dubious though.  IIRC, the first Battle Droid to use the "thin and accurate" sculpting was the 2000 POTJ Security Battle Droid, and the plastic on its legs was fairly sturdy and not the rubbery plastic we're used to these days.  The POTJ Boomer Damage version was alright (plastic-wise; it was the pose that made standing impossible) and things went completely to hell when the Saga 2002 versions came out.

I think that, all things considered, a truly SA, high-quality plastic Battle Droid (with different ranks and interchangable backpacks and accessories) is rapidly climbing to the top of my want list along with that properly-scaled Grievous (and thank you to Jared and/or Matt for asking Hasbro about that at the SDCC, btw).

I think that a new Speeder Bike is a necessity in the 30th anniversary year, what with a "new" Endor Luke, the VTSC Scout Trooper, and the rumored V30AC(?) Endor Leia coming out.  Heck, throw out a single carded Paploo and there's 4 Speeder Bike sales right off the bat for some people.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on July 26, 2006, 10:26 PM
Y'know what would be a wierd idea? Put a properly scaled speederbike on a regular card and count it as a "figure." It would be odd, but it would sell like mad.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 26, 2006, 10:34 PM
Sandtroopers asked another good one this week:

What details can you tell us about the planned television series - which known and unknown characters will be in it?

We won't be able to talk about the series for a long time yet, and then we'll let Lucasfilm lead the charge with news.

---

Asking Hasbro--who won't even confirm their own products that are more than a few months out--to announce a bunch of stuff that Lucasfilm hasn't even announced yet. 

That is comedy gold, folks.

What's next?  Asking them how the final Harry Potter book ends?

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Rob on July 26, 2006, 10:59 PM
I got a sneak-peek...

They're going to ask who will win the Superbowl in 2009.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on July 27, 2006, 10:34 AM
Although I do enjoy reading the Q and A each week, I'm starting to wonder how accurate things are.  I'd have to look back at the exact question, but didn't at some point Hasbro say that the BARC trooper "wouldn't be in the foreseeable future" - and now it has been announced to be coming this year.  Biker Scout/BARC differences aside, we're still getting a figure based on that character.  I think there are other examples of this, but its just interesting that they say "not in the foreseeable future" mere weeks before they are officially announced :).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 27, 2006, 10:53 AM
There was a question just a couple weeks ago about if there would be any more Republic Commando figures, which Hasbro flat-out answered "No."  End of story. 

And then, a few days later, there they were in San Diego.

They'll give an answer like that, and then there have been plenty of other vague, "wait for ComicCon"-type answers, which were then never addressed at ComicCon.

Just goes to show that you can't put a whole lot of stock in much of what they're saying most of the time.

They did reveal this week, though, that a moisture vaporator accessory would soon be available. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on July 27, 2006, 02:24 PM
They did reveal this week, though, that a moisture vaporator accessory would soon be available. . .

Maybe they should use it to dry off the piss in their brains ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on July 27, 2006, 02:27 PM
HA!  Where did they mention the moisture vaporator? (Which site?)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on July 28, 2006, 12:08 PM
It's literally been years since they last tried to have any kind of an open back-and-forth with the online collecting community (anyone else remember Jen@Hasbro?  No?  Well, that's how long it's been.)

I was curious about how the current Q & A's compared to the old ones with Jen@Hasbro, just in terms of how things have changed since then (and how some things have stayed the same), so I did some digging around and found a couple of them.  They're kind of interesting to read, so I thought I'd link 'em here.

Report from chat with Jen and Steve Sansweet, February 1998 (http://us.geocities.com/snag5/haschats.txt)
Interview with Hunter's Guild (Mark from Rebelscum), July 1998 (http://members.aol.com/HunterESB/inquest01.html)
Rebelscum chat transcript, July 1998 (http://www.rebelscum.com/jenchat.asp)
Interview with Hunter's Guild, November 1998 (http://members.aol.com/HunterESB/inquest02.html)
Q & A with Rebelscum, late 2000 (http://www.rebelscum.com/hqna.asp)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on July 29, 2006, 02:13 AM
I got a sneak-peek...

They're going to ask who will win the Superbowl in 2009.

Oh good, that was on my mind too...  :)  I hope they start getting Car Comparison questions in too because I've been looking at a couple sedans but just not sure which way to go...  Hasbro, can you help?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on July 30, 2006, 12:16 PM
What's next?  Asking them how the final Harry Potter book ends?

Hermione dies.  :P

Matt, since I'm too lazy to look, do you have (or even remember) the one panel that Jen was at where she said, "We don't care what fans want!"?

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 4, 2006, 07:38 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 7/28 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1154734509,1394,).

Willrow!   :o

We're holding you to that answer Hasbro!  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Angry Ewok on August 4, 2006, 09:13 PM
Sandtroopers was pretty dishonest to their community a while back, failing to deliver their questions to Hasbro - blaming it on Hasbro for not answering questions when it was THEIR fault for not sending the questions in time, in the first place... When they finally did get some questions sent away, it was **** like this...

"What is Hasbro planning on doing to make purchasing their product more fan/collector friendly?"

Anyway…

“We WILL do Willrow eventually”

This is awesome news.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on August 6, 2006, 04:36 PM
Okay, it's reasonable for Hasbro to replace the holos with the coins in '07, but did they really need to replace the holos and the stands for the coins in '07? This makes me upset, because the stands are great. They are mostly what separates the TSC from any other line. I really wish that there are still going to be SOME sort of stands in the 30AC...


:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on August 7, 2006, 09:11 AM
Pawlus had a good point about coins - it usually leads to the end of a line.  Let's hope that we don't see the same thing happen next year that the old folks will remember from the original POTF days.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 9, 2006, 04:34 AM
I'd like the dropping of stands, coins, holos or anything else for just simply BETTER figures.  Using the pack-in as a sale gimmick is pretty unproven in anything but the fast food world...  I don't know why Hasbro insists on continuing with it at all but whatever...  All I know is the kids I buy for have them sitting in a junk drawer because they're, and I quote, "dumb and pointless".

Yes Hasbro, keep reigning in those kids with your clever marketing...  It's hitting home guys.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 9, 2006, 11:32 AM
Pawlus had a good point about coins - it usually leads to the end of a line.  Let's hope that we don't see the same thing happen next year that the old folks will remember from the original POTF days.

It's interesting--the parallels between POTF and next year's line.  Both will have debuted two years after the "last" theatrical movie, both will have cardbacks which were quite a stylistic change over their previous versions (although ROTJ to POTF is nowhere near as radical a change as SAGA2 to 30AC), and both will have coins (or medallions  (http://threads.rebelscum.com/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=UBB48&Number=805461&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=9&o=&fpart=1) ;) ) as premiums.

I don't think the coins will cause 30AC to tank like POTF did--there's so much other ancillary stuff out there now to keep "Star Wars" going (at least for a few years), and there was virtually nothing else out there for Star Wars in the mid-to-late eighties.

But, then again, I'm not Adam Pawlus, so what do I know.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 11, 2006, 03:40 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 8/4 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1155325016,53466,).

Yeah... there's not much to see this week.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on August 11, 2006, 04:48 PM
Yeah, you gotta love it when they pick a question that they don't answer.  LOL. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 11, 2006, 05:08 PM
They can't all be "Wilrow Hood Will Get Made!" kinds of questions I guess. :)

Yeah this week is meh...  Oh well, maybe next time.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 11, 2006, 06:23 PM
Hasbro Weekly Q and A...Why are we doing this again... :-\?

Are we just gauging Hasbro to confirm that they answer questions the way we expect them to answer?

Hasbro Predictability Factor...High ::)

--Urb
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on August 11, 2006, 06:55 PM
Do not get me wrong.  I actually think it's kind of nice that they do these Q and A sessions.  If nothing else we know for certain that they read collectors feedback.  It's just some of the answers have sort of been answered already by them in a slightly different form.  It's kind of funny to reread them again.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on August 11, 2006, 08:14 PM
Just wanted to give some Props to Matty B for all of the work in compiling all of the Q&A stuff in the Master GNTesque Thread....its a great resource and a lot of work went in to it, thanks :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 16, 2006, 03:23 AM
Matt's definitely been compiling a nice collection, so my thumbs up to him too...  It's been hard for me to keep up with all the Q&A's lately just because life is busy so it's nice they're all condensed into one area to breeze through real fast.  Thanks man.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 18, 2006, 10:31 AM
Just a quick note:

Due to a holiday-shortened work week for our friends at Hasbro, the Star Wars Weekly Q&A submission that we sent on August 11th will be not be answered until August 25th.

So, no new answers this week.  Guess that means Matthew gets out of updating his mega thread this weekend (and at this point I'll add my name to the list of those who thank you for your efforts on that thread  :)).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on August 18, 2006, 10:36 AM
Add me to that list as well.  Thanks so much Matt for compiling everything in one - easy to navigate resource.  I can't imagine the work that goes into updating that thing, and its so great that you set it up and continue to maintain it.  Thanks again.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 18, 2006, 01:05 PM
Thanks, guys, for the kind words.  I'm glad that others are finding it helpful.  I started it because I thought it was a pain in the ass to have to go to ten or fifteen different sites just to read the same ol' regurgitated responses, but I had no idea it would turn into the behemoth that it has. 

It's a lot of work, but I like doing it, as long as people are getting some good out of it.  That said, I certainly don't mind all of the "off-weeks" Hasbro has been taking with it. . .   ;D

And if there's anything you guys would like to see, or ways you think it could be made better, please feel free to let me know.  I'm always open to suggestions.

Thanks again.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 18, 2006, 02:14 PM
Since you've opened a suggestion box Matthew, I think maybe a chronological list of the Q&A's is not a bad idea either however it'd be an undertaking unto itself unfortunately I think.  :(

You've certainly made things easier...

By the way, FFURG.com has Q's and A's now but they'll be customs focused for the most part, just so you know if you hadn't already added them to your list.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 18, 2006, 02:50 PM
Since you've opened a suggestion box Matthew, I think maybe a chronological list of the Q&A's is not a bad idea either however it'd be an undertaking unto itself unfortunately I think.  :(

You know, I've thought about doing that a couple of times, but I don't know that it would be all that different from what some of the other sites (Nicklab and TheJawa.com (http://www.thejawa.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=5900.0), in particular) have been doing.

But what do you other guys think?  If you had the choice, would you rather read the Q & A's broken down by date, or by category?

Quote
By the way, FFURG.com has Q's and A's now but they'll be customs focused for the most part, just so you know if you hadn't already added them to your list.

Where you been?  I've had FFURG's questions in there for a few weeks now.  I'm on top of this ****, baby!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 18, 2006, 04:58 PM
Ah good, I just wasn't sure.  I hadn't read the update because of time constraints lately...  I've hardly had time to come into the collecting areas of the forum actually.   :-\

I just wanted to make sure you knew about FFURG's status on the list since I wasn't sure if you ever visited there. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 18, 2006, 08:58 PM
Ah good, I just wasn't sure.  I hadn't read the update because of time constraints lately...  I've hardly had time to come into the collecting areas of the forum actually.   :-\

That's really a good point that you've brought up, because something that's always bugged me about the archive is that it's next to impossible to scroll through it and determine what the new additions are at a glance.  I've thought about putting the new questions in a different color, but the thing is already too rainbow-lookin' as it is, and it'd be a pain in the ass to have to go through the next week and remove all of the tags from the (then old) questions.

Maybe I could try a separate reply just for that week's additions.  They'd be on Page 2, so they wouldn't get in the way of the categories, and it'd be easier to find out what's new that way.  And it wouldn't be that much more trouble to do.

I think I'll give that a try next week, and see how everybody likes it.  But I gotta say, I have pretty much zero interest in going back and reorganizing the past answers chronologically.   ;D

Quote
I just wanted to make sure you knew about FFURG's status on the list since I wasn't sure if you ever visited there.

Usually don't, but I've been checking in the last few Fridays.  They've been asking some pretty good questions so far--much better than what a lot of the other sites have been asking.

Love,

Gregg
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on August 21, 2006, 09:02 AM

But what do you other guys think? If you had the choice, would you rather read the Q & A's broken down by date, or by category?


Only because you asked, I prefer chronologically.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 21, 2006, 07:23 PM
I'd say by date, this way I do less digging. Is it easier to do it this way? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 22, 2006, 12:27 AM
Only because you asked, I prefer chronologically.

Noted. . .

I'd say by date, this way I do less digging.

. . .and noted.

(CTRL + F is your friend)

Quote
Is it easier to do it this way?

It certainly would be.  But I'm really attached to the categorical sorting, and I prefer it to chronological sorting for several reasons, so it's worth the extra work to me.  Thanks for your input, but since I'm the one doing it, that's how it's gonna be.   :)

That said, I'll try doing it by date for the next round (in a separate reply), and we'll see how that turns out. 

There's still no way I'm going back and reorganizing everything chronologically, though. 

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 22, 2006, 01:30 AM

There's still no way I'm going back and reorganizing everything chronologically, though. 

 Did someone ask you to do that?
 You're doing well, keep up the good work.

The DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 22, 2006, 01:39 AM
Did someone ask you to do that?

No, just emphasizing the point that if someone's waiting around for a chronological Q & A archive, they're gonna be in for a long wait, that's all.

Quote
You're doing well, keep up the good work.

Thank you.  Your approval was the utmost concern when I started this project, so I'm glad to see that you're satisfied.  Makes it all worth it. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 22, 2006, 01:52 AM
Have another Matthew (snip) judgement impaired?!

How'd you know?

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 22, 2006, 01:57 AM

Q's

- When are the questions submitted for the week's round of questions?
- Are they(questions to hasbro) all submitted or is there some kind of 'cool guy' editing process?
- If the former question is a yes answer then who is selecting the questions presented to Hasbro?
- Is there an equal opportunity method for question selection?
- If there is a quota for how many questions can be asked per week and we're over it with good, edited questions, do those that miss out fall off for good or are they revisited again in coming weeks as possible questions?

 :-\ ???

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 22, 2006, 02:02 AM

Q's

- When are the questions submitted for the week's round of questions?
- Are they(questions to hasbro) all submitted or is there some kind of 'cool guy' editing process?
- If the former question is a yes answer then who is selecting the questions presented to Hasbro?
- Is there an equal opportunity method for question selection?
- If there is a quota for how many questions can be asked per week and we're over it with good, edited questions, do those that miss out fall off for good or are they revisited again in coming weeks as possible questions?

 :-\ ???

DS


. . .the ****?!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 22, 2006, 03:00 AM
Matt, god willing I ever get any time I'll work at a chronological wrap-up of the past ones for you and just hand it off to you to insert.  Personally I think if they can run side-by-side both ways that'd be ideal of course, but it's really up to you and good work either way it goes.  It's your project and we're not going to jump in on it really...

Jon, your questions (they're more or less deviating from the current discussion I thin, Matt) go like this:

Quote
- When are the questions submitted for the week's round of questions?

We submit questions every Friday for the following week, and this is the format at every site out there.  We get the answers the same day if I'm not mistaken (for THAT week's round).

Quote
- Are they(questions to hasbro) all submitted or is there some kind of 'cool guy' editing process?

We pick the questions each week ourselves, as there are limits set by Hasbro.

Quote
- If the former question is a yes answer then who is selecting the questions presented to Hasbro?

No single staffer hand picks anything, it's pretty much collaborative by us all, just chiming in on what we think is good for this particular week or whatnot.

Quote
- Is there an equal opportunity method for question selection?

???  As opposed to?  We get questions in and we just weed through looking for what we think are the best and send them off.

Quote
- If there is a quota for how many questions can be asked per week and we're over it with good, edited questions, do those that miss out fall off for good or are they revisited again in coming weeks as possible questions?

There is a limit...  Some sites have been abusing it and asking more than we were told we were allowed to ask (we've tried to respect Hasbro's guidelines, others clearly have been asking more though).  The Q&A thread's q's for any given week aren't deleted or anything, they're still there and potentially up for asking too...  Bearing in mind however that we do keep our eyes on what other sites are asking and things, and try to adjust ours accordingly to avoid duplication and such, and to get out the questions to Hasbro we think they'll A) Answer in the first place, and B) that really are asking something tough of them that the collectors deserve answered.

IE: We won't ask about playsets, vehicles, etc...  Some places are asking about them still, but the "point" of it is moot at this point and it's a waste of an answered Q.  We look things over pretty closely though to dig up the best Q set we can for each week and so far I think we've done fairly well considering some of the Q's (and their A's) we've read around the various sites.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on August 23, 2006, 12:57 PM
And I'd say you guys have done a bang up job in picking the questions. 

Some of the sites out there (and I won't name names) have really wasted their opportunity to get questions answered from Hasbro by asking ridiculous questions that either A.) everybody know the answer to already or B.) the request is so obscure Hasbro replies with "no comment."

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 23, 2006, 01:32 PM
Matt, god willing I ever get any time I'll work at a chronological wrap-up of the past ones for you and just hand it off to you to insert.  Personally I think if they can run side-by-side both ways that'd be ideal of course, but it's really up to you and good work either way it goes.  It's your project and we're not going to jump in on it really...

Jon, your questions (they're more or less deviating from the current discussion I thin, Matt) go like this:


Jesse--

Thanks for the involved reply. I would ask how my Q's could possibly be deviating from the current discussion though considering it is a Hasbro Q and A thread so, where else would I ask those questions?

One more Q for JD staff only then?  Since Hasbro took a 'week off' from us are Q's backdating to the 9th of August going to be considered for the next QandA submittal?

The DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 23, 2006, 01:47 PM
Just a quick note:

Due to a holiday-shortened work week for our friends at Hasbro, the Star Wars Weekly Q&A submission that we sent on August 11th will be not be answered until August 25th.


Sorry for the DP...

So, am I getting this right? We DID send Q's on the 11th that won't be answered until Friday? I looked and only saw 2 Q's that I asked on the 9th(for between the 5th and the 11th)-- were you able to pull more older q's so we could have enough for that week's round?<asked under the assumption that my Q's won't make the cut because we couldn't really ask a Q from that guy ;)>

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 23, 2006, 04:50 PM
So, am I getting this right? We DID send Q's on the 11th that won't be answered until Friday?

Yes, the questions we submitted on 8/11 will be answered by Hasbro on Friday (8/25).  They skipped last week due to the Holiday in RI.


One more Q for JD staff only then? Since Hasbro took a 'week off' from us are Q's backdating to the 9th of August going to be considered for the next QandA submittal?

I looked and only saw 2 Q's that I asked on the 9th(for between the 5th and the 11th)-- were you able to pull more older q's so we could have enough for that week's round?<asked under the assumption that my Q's won't make the cut because we couldn't really ask a Q from that guy ;)>

We don't just look at the recent questions asked when we plan out our submission, any questions in that whole thread (that haven't been asked by us or another site) are fair game.

I copy each question out of there and have a running back-log list of questions from both from the staff and from the forums.  That is where we draw our questions from on a weekly basis.  As Jesse said, we try try to weight the questions to find the most "bang for the buck" from Hasbro.


And since, you asked, I can tell you right now that your two questions were NOT part of the 3 that were sent to Hasbro last week.  It has nothing to do with "who" they came from, but rather other reasons why we did not choose them yet...

 - Your first question was WAY too long for Hasbro to answer.  Hasbro has asked that the questions are a few lines long max and we want to honor their request.  Not only that, but it was a question that involved sales data and Hasbro has shown in previous weeks that they don't really answer those.  Add in the whole "I think you're doing something wrong" aspect of the question and Hasbro won't take it seriously.

 - Your second question involved Beast Packs.  Questions about the beasts have been asked by other sites, and the answer is always something like "Though we understand that beast/creature assortments are desirable, at this time it appears that new vehicle assortments are in higher demand."  As Jesse said in his post above, we try to avoid duplication so we tend to skip questions if the topic has already come up.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on August 23, 2006, 04:53 PM
Jeff is to nice a guy to say that your questions suck.

Since mine suck too, I will not say it either.

 8)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on August 23, 2006, 05:52 PM

We don't just look at the recent questions asked when we plan out our submission, any questions in that whole thread (that haven't been asked by us or another site) are fair game.

I copy each question out of there and have a running back-log list of questions from both from the staff and from the forums.  That is where we draw our questions from on a weekly basis.  As Jesse said, we try try to weight the questions to find the most "bang for the buck" from Hasbro.


This is what makes JD.com  my favorite site.  You guys pay attention to the community as a whole and not just our little corner.  I think of the sites that have the ability to ask questions about 75% of them piss the opportunity away asking questions that have been covered before (sometimes twice).

Since this Q&A thing definately has a short shelf life, we need to see what we can get out of it.

I also appreciate the thread that has all the questions keeps me from having to figure out which sites asked questions this week....

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 23, 2006, 08:53 PM
Jeff is to nice a guy to say that your questions suck.

Since mine suck too, I will not say it either.

ORLY? Didn't you just say it in that first line?

I recently added several questions that you may now legitimately  feel 'suck' for your enjoyment ::)

So, my question about beasts is the same as the others? Since I don't have the time to look up backdated info..the other Q's on this matter cited examples mirroring my Q? they suggested pack-ins too? If all that were true then I guess someone DID ask the same thing and I'm good with that explanation then.
 
I can understand editing for EXACT same questions..though I just feel other 'speculation editing' kinda sucks really. Why? because we don't work for Hasbro or speak for them..so how can we really honestly edit for them?(though predictable as they are we can't guarantee 100% what they say) I've noticed that say 30 questions go before Hasbro a week(all sites)..they seem to give an honest, non-vague, non-blow-off answer to only a few. If we left the editing up to Hasbro the program would be dead in a week because ..for good PR they would only select a few Q's that they would want to answer (after several submitted). Folks would tire of the rejection of it real quick.

While I feel MWB has done a nice job in here. I honestly am no longer amused with this ****** program. BTW --I know I'm not alone on this. Many others including staff have countless times expressed their disdain for Hasbro's replies. To me..it seemed like a novel idea to Hasbro at first and now that so many Q's have been asked and are now edited..coupled with 'Hasbro answer conditioned' editors what they assume Hasbro won't like..the program seems to be falling to ****(by Hasbro design!?!).

I also feel it 'self-full and egotystical' the comments I see here criticizing other websites about a Q asked that's been asked before ect. Sure we wanna be a great site but to the low expense of Hammering others because they don't have a cool editor and they actually, humanly missed a duplicate Q? Perfection or Alienating? What because our site is so awesome that we didn't make that mistake? I guess we as a site can all pat ourselves on our backs then.

I think the focus should be towards Hasbro being ridiculous here. Everyone should have the equal opportunity to have their Q asked/forwarded..if there was something in the Q that could be worked/edited than that should be worked with the poster to get his/her Q in. I've seen 'questions' submitted (passed the cool editing program)that really read like statements. I think that really Sucks IMO--it is after all a QandA thread and not a Statement and response thread.

You should ask yourselves though.. "Hasbro weekly Q and A"
How many 'answers' does Hasbro provide? You can't count ducks and dodges either.

Thoroughly disgruntled with Hasbro and weak support responders--
The DS

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 23, 2006, 09:08 PM
So, my question about beasts is the same as the others? Since I don't have the time to look up backdated info.

(http://images.dvdtalk.com/images/smilies/lol.gif)

Yes, because it takes all of, what, ten seconds to click into the archive thread, scroll to the "Beasts and Creatures" section, and read the three or four questions about beasts that the other sites have already asked?

Quote
While I feel MWB has done a nice job in here and appears to be 'groomed' for staff work in the future

(http://images.dvdtalk.com/images/smilies/rotflmao.gif)

It'll never happen, and even if it did, I'd never want to be staff here, because then I'd never get to say things like what I'm about to:

Jon, you're a ******* idiot.

I'm out.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 23, 2006, 09:48 PM
Everyone should have the equal opportunity to have their Q asked/forwarded..if there was something in the Q that could be worked/edited than that should be worked with the poster to get his/her Q in.

Um... it is an impossibility to have every question that is posted get forwarded for an answer from Hasbro.  We only get to submit 3 questions per week, and our back-log (not counting all those questions you just dumped in there tonight) is up to 50+ questions.

Everyone has equal opportunity to have their question considered, all they have to do is post it in the thread.  Like I said earlier, ALL questions posted in that other thread are copied and pasted into my back-log file.  From there, it is up to us (the Staff) to select the 3 questions for the week. 

Once again, we try to pick 3 questions that we think the majority of our JD readers will enjoy and will have a good shot at getting answered.  I know we don't know 100% what Hasbro will or won't answer, but after 8 weeks, we've got a pretty good idea when a question will get a "no plans for that right now" type answer.


And the questions that we don't pick?  They stay in the back-log file.  Just because we didn't use your beast pack question last week (or this week) doesn't mean that we will never use it....
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 24, 2006, 01:04 AM
About "deviating from the current discussion", Jon...  What I meant is that everyone's talking about Matthew's gathering of Q&A's from around the net and how they should be formatted and other crap of that ilk and you then asked something wholely separate of that discussion.

I didn't say off-topic, just deviating from what everyone was back-and-forth on at that time, thus more answering Matthew than you.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 24, 2006, 10:55 AM

you're a ******* idiot.

I'm out.

 :) It takes one to know one, actually. Have a beer.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 24, 2006, 11:13 AM
:) It takes one to know one, actually. Have a beer.

Have another Jon, and..while your at it I should point out that you blew it in that..after my last comment it WAS an O RLY moment and you missed out with that weak sarcasm instead; judgement impaired?! C'mon..I expect more from you ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 24, 2006, 11:46 AM
Deja vu? I think I heard those words before..LOL
(but I didn't have 2 seconds to look it up)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 24, 2006, 12:13 PM
#1 - DROP THE PERSONAL ATTACKS.

All parties have been warned via PM.  There are "vacations" on the way for some folks if it continues...


#2 - YES, WE KNOW THAT YOUR SPECIFIC BEAST PACK QUESTION WAS NOT ASKED YET.

Like I said...

Just because we didn't use your beast pack question last week (or this week) doesn't mean that we will never use it....

We have 50+ question in our back-log.  Just because we didn't get to your question in the one submission we've made so far since it was asked doesn't mean it will NEVER get asked. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 24, 2006, 12:17 PM
I made it easier and deleted my q's.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 24, 2006, 12:31 PM
Ok I took a couple secs to look up the beasts section and found that ..

My Q IS different than the others
-I saw nothing that mentioned with figure pack ins
-I didn't see any with the examples I left

Seeing as how it only took me a couple seconds to click and look that I actually indeed have a different statement I wonder if blinders are on?

Okay, you looked at the beasts section, but did you actually read and understand the responses?  Here they are again.  Pay particular attention to the last two responses:

Beasts and Creatures

Any plans of re-releasing Jabba the Hutt with his throne? (JI, 8/04/06) (http://jediinsider.com/index.php?catid=8&itemid=9707)

Good question. He's a great iconic character whom we haven't done anything with in a long time. We have no plans right now.

Are there any plans to make any beasts available again like the Dewback, Tauntaun, Rancor, or Bantha; either newly-sculpted versions or re-releases of previous versions? (SWC, 7/14/06) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=806)

We're looking at beasts as an '07 possibility, more-so as exclusives, but there are no specific plans right now.

Will we be seeing more Beast/Creature assortments in the foreseeable future? (AF, 6/09/06) (http://www.actionfigs.com/index.php?categoryid=12&p2_articleid=162)

Though we understand that beast/creature assortments are desirable, at this time it appears that new vehicle assortments are in higher demand. Vehicles will play an integral part in our future line releases.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yes, your beasts question was "different," but it wouldn't have gotten any different a response from the others.  It sounds like we may or may not be getting some beasts next year.  If we are, Hasbro certainly isn't ready to divulge that info yet. 

Since Hasbro is vague at best with even the most general of questions, there wouldn't be any way they'd give a good response to your very-specific question.

You might try asking it at Sandtroopers.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on August 24, 2006, 12:34 PM
I can't respond to this in a way I'd like because it would lead me down a dark path.. but thank you for your efforts in the explanation, Matt.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 25, 2006, 02:37 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 8/11 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1156530840,45518,).

- "RotS Sneak Preview Astromech Sculpt" for R2-D2?
- Anymore Heroes & Villains or Greatest Battels rehashes in 2007?
- When can Han get a holster like Garindan?

 :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 25, 2006, 02:55 PM
This is gonna be a good Q & A week--they've already confirmed the Artoo repaint, and the new SA Mace, too. 

Good stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on August 25, 2006, 03:28 PM
and the new SA Mace, too.

I assumed that Hasbro would be making this next year, but now seeing it confirmed is just great. I'll be buying multiples! :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on August 25, 2006, 05:04 PM
I am actually impressed that they decided to cut the bull**** and give out straight answers.  My opinion of them has change, not a lot, but it is something.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 25, 2006, 08:22 PM
Here's an interesting reply:

-------------------------------------------------------

As 2007 is the 30th anniversary of Star Wars, will we see a larger percent of Original Trilogy characters who have never been made before, compared to previous years? Characters like CZ-3, Hermi Oodle, Yarna Gargan, Tonnika Sisters, etc, would make great 30th anniversary presents! (RS, 8/25/06) (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_9th_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_99716.asp)

Tough one to quantify, but I think that collectors will be very happy with the selection of new OT figures next year, including at least two that you mentioned.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Anyone want to take any guesses?

(Here's (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/The_411_Get_Ready_To_Drool_99045.asp) RS's rumor list, for reference.)

Since he's on the list, I'll say Hermi and the Tonnika Sisters, which have been rumored for a while.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Rune Haako on August 25, 2006, 08:46 PM
Jawa w/ Droid is on the list.

Jawa w/ CZ-3?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 25, 2006, 08:55 PM
That's a good point.  With the rumored Vintage Jawa also on the list, I forgot about the basic one. 

I wouldn't be surprised to see three of them, then--Hermi, CZ-3, and the Tonnikas, possibly with that curved cantina piece they've been teasing us with.  The only one that really seems unlikely for next year is Gargan, but you never know. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on August 26, 2006, 01:10 AM
You know what, i think you all know i am hoping for Yarna, and i think she is one of the two.


Please let it be Yarna! Please let it be Yarna! Please let it be Yarna! Please let it be Yarna! Please let it be Yarna! Please let it be Yarna!  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 26, 2006, 02:40 AM
I'm guessing Hermi and CZ3 only because they're who I want the most...  Hermi's tops and CZ3 is about as interesting an OT droid as can be made at this point (not much to pick from in the droid column these days). 

I want my apple eater though, and now.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on August 26, 2006, 10:33 PM
I like the question choices this week from Most of the sites.  Finally we have gotten past the weekly "when will Clone Commander X be made"....of course somebody had to ask the weekly Tonnika Sister question...I thought JD and GH asked the best questions, which made it easier to get a better answer.   
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 27, 2006, 01:43 AM
I thought the Q's this week were better overall too for the most part, Paul...  There are of course a couple here and there that fall short, and some that make you laugh some because they basically try to act condescending towards Hasbro in the Q&A but ultimately get told to eat it in their replies. 

Overall though there was a lot of good Q&A time this week I think.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JesseVader08 on August 27, 2006, 01:56 AM
Interesting answers this week.

I just thought I'd say thanks to Matthew for his work on organizing the answers, and even listing it all chronologically for those that were interested in this format. 

Thanks.  8)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on August 27, 2006, 11:29 AM
I'd have to say that Hermi and CZ-3 would be the two that are going to be made. I guess it could be the Tonnika sister(s), and judging by Hasbro's "joke" at Comic-Con, I'm guessing it WON'T be Yarna.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on August 27, 2006, 01:35 PM
Keep in mind that CZ's been  on a rumor list with some backup to it too...  The 2nd accessory sets were to have him in there somewhere.  I'm hoping he makes it.  An actual unique new droid would be nice.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on August 28, 2006, 11:13 AM
The questions definitely got better last week.  I think people are finally starting to move away from the "why won't you make big, expensive Playset X/Vehicle Y"-type questions, and are starting to ask things that maybe aren't as easily answerable.  I don't know.

I just thought I'd say thanks to Matthew for his work on organizing the answers, and even listing it all chronologically for those that were interested in this format. 

Thanks.  8)

Awww, shucks.   :-*

It was technically more work, but doing it chronologically gave me a new way of looking at things and I think it even saved me some time in plugging the answers into the categories.  And it's definitely easier to find out what's new, now.  Thanks to everyone who suggested it--I should have been doing it this way (side-by-side) since the beginning. 

Thanks again, and if anyone else has any other suggestions, please let me know.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 1, 2006, 12:08 PM
Here's some questions we get to look forward to today, thanks to SSG:

Quote
Does the Star Wars team still have interest in seeing every original Kenner vintage figure redone in the modern line in some way (be it basic figure or otherwise), such as: Sim Aloo, Warok, Lumat, human B-wing Pilot, Hoth Rebel Technician / Tauntaun wrangler, black Bespin Security Guard, Woof (vintage Klaatu with the sheepskin), etc.? If so, any specific timeline for them?

Quote
Now that we have a new definitive Biker Scout, can we expect to see a more accurate Original Trilogy speederbike soon?

Didn't JD ask those same exact questions like a month ago, and get like the typical, noncommital "no plans at this time" response?

 :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 1, 2006, 12:23 PM
Didn't JD ask those same exact questions like a month ago, and get like the typical, noncommital "no plans at this time" response?

Pretty much... two months ago on one of them.

Do you plan on getting to the remaining figures from the Kenner Vintage line that have not yet been given a modern sculpt update? (These include Jabba's Palace Klaatu, Lumat, Romba, Warok, Black Bespin Guard, Imperial Commander, Death Squad Commander, B-Wing Pilot, and more). (JD, 6/30/06) (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1151683548,32668,)

We're still working out all the details for the 2007 line, so we will not be announcing the specific figures until the Fall. Be sure to ask again in a few months!

With the all new SA Biker Scout (Kudos to you Hasbro, that's some super fine work you did), fans are now anxious to know if an all new Speederbike is in the works? The original's sculpt is detailed, however the bike isn't particularly sturdy and it's a bit oversized. A smaller (properly scaled) bike with maybe a clear stand for a hovering effect would be incredibly popular given how many Biker Scouts a lot of us own I'd imagine. (JD, 7/26/06) (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1153948132,39400,)

Interesting idea. We don't have a new one in the works, but if we do a new bike, we'll take your feedback into account.


Maybe they are taking Hasbro at their word and just doing the "ask again in a few months" bit?   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 1, 2006, 12:35 PM
Pretty much... two months ago on one of them.

It was more of a rhetorical question than anything, but thanks, anyway.   :-*

I doubt they'll be asked anyway, as SSG has had some major problems in getting their questions in.  They've missed the last three sessions in a row.  Duplicate questions or no, I hope they get their stuff in today.

Funny though, on the duplicates--in one thread over there, JediTricks was blathering on about how he never goes to JD unless it's to read the Q & A's, to make sure they don't all ask the same questions. . . 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 1, 2006, 01:15 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 8/25 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1157130730,47982,).

- Battle Damaged Vader's TIE?
- More knee articulation?
- Is it brown or blue?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 1, 2006, 01:46 PM
Watch as JediInsider pisses away what could have been a good question and answer:

Any plans for a VOTC Jango Fett figure? (JI, 9/01/06) (http://jediinsider.com/index.php?catid=8&itemid=9767)

Prequel Vintage is an interesting concept (if not an oxymoron) but we're not there yet…we'd like to continue to concentrate on classic Kenner figures that should be updated first. At some point we can see doing what you suggest, but it's not anytime in the near future.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how not to word a question to these guys. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on September 1, 2006, 04:53 PM
Hasbro must think that we are as stupid as they are based on the average question  that they get. :-\

I like Hasbro's answer to the Solo coat.  "Well if we can sell two of the same figure then we will; blue, brown, cherry it is all the same to us here at Hasbro...green" ;D

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 1, 2006, 07:32 PM
Didn't JD ask those same exact questions like a month ago, and get like the typical, noncommital "no plans at this time" response?

Pretty much... two months ago on one of them.

Do you plan on getting to the remaining figures from the Kenner Vintage line that have not yet been given a modern sculpt update? (These include Jabba's Palace Klaatu, Lumat, Romba, Warok, Black Bespin Guard, Imperial Commander, Death Squad Commander, B-Wing Pilot, and more). (JD, 6/30/06) (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1151683548,32668,)

We're still working out all the details for the 2007 line, so we will not be announcing the specific figures until the Fall. Be sure to ask again in a few months!

With the all new SA Biker Scout (Kudos to you Hasbro, that's some super fine work you did), fans are now anxious to know if an all new Speederbike is in the works? The original's sculpt is detailed, however the bike isn't particularly sturdy and it's a bit oversized. A smaller (properly scaled) bike with maybe a clear stand for a hovering effect would be incredibly popular given how many Biker Scouts a lot of us own I'd imagine. (JD, 7/26/06) (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1153948132,39400,)

Interesting idea. We don't have a new one in the works, but if we do a new bike, we'll take your feedback into account.


Maybe they are taking Hasbro at their word and just doing the "ask again in a few months" bit?   :P

Well, here are the results:

Does the Star Wars team still have interest in seeing every original Kenner vintage figure redone in the modern line in some way (be it basic figure or otherwise), such as: Sim Aloo, Warok, Lumat, human B-wing Pilot, Hoth Rebel Technician / Tauntaun wrangler, black Bespin Security Guard, Woof (vintage Klaatu with the sheepskin), etc.? If so, any specific timeline for them? (SSG, 9/01/06) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76)

It's not a stated goal for the next few years, but it will probably happen eventually more organically... i.e next time we do an Ewok, for instance, it could be an update on original figures. But we haven't just slotted all these into a future line.

Now that we have a new definitive Biker Scout, can we expect to see a more accurate Original Trilogy speederbike soon? (SSG, 9/01/06) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76)

I think the previous Speeder Bike was pretty good. But there is always room for improvements. The real question then becomes, is it better to make an improved bike or a similar sized vehicle that has never been done before...

Mmmmm. . .  I got nothin' clever to say here.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 1, 2006, 11:07 PM
I do...  They must like me better because they actually answered my speederbike question with enthusiasm.

So eat that SSG.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 19, 2006, 10:35 AM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 9/8 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1158676228,25932,).

- Confirmation on Commander Appo and the Combat Engineer Clone
- How do you choose those main characters?
- Why carded collectors feel the pinch
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 19, 2006, 12:00 PM
Interesting response on the whole yearly release quota thing. I think it's a complicated answer for - "because we know a fixed number of customers will buy every single one."  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 19, 2006, 03:09 PM
Quote
Why was the POTF2 Millennium Minted Coins series from 1998 so named? Was it in relation to the Millennium Falcon, or was it in relation to the Y2K Millennium fever? (RS, 9/19/06)

The latter.

Whew!  Ya know I was getting antsy that nobody had asked this yet.  :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 19, 2006, 03:20 PM
I've been on pins and needles for the last eight years, waiting to find out about that! 

Now I can finally sleep at night.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on September 19, 2006, 04:02 PM
I have not said much about the questions being asked but rather the answer given but that MMC question is pretty stupid.  What's next?  Why was POTF called POTF and not power of the hungry wookies? :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: iFett on September 19, 2006, 04:03 PM
From GH:

Galactic Hunter: Have we seen the last of the Holiday Edition action figures? Was the Holiday Darth Vader the end for that series?

HASBRO: I doubt it will be the last…but we will not have a Christmas-themed figure next year at least.

-So does this mean there is a Christmas themed figure for this year?-
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 19, 2006, 04:43 PM
Yeah that was worded...  funny.  The way I read that, there is one this year but not next year (since they'd have plans that far ahead, it makes sense), however it could've been a miscommunication and meant THIS year there isn't one?

Either way, as is said in the X-Mas figure thread, that's something I'd like to see die a quiet death now as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 19, 2006, 04:48 PM
I think they meant that there won't be a holiday figure this year.

With only three months to go until Christmas, I think we would have heard about something by now, if there was one. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 20, 2006, 08:05 AM
Good questions again from the JD.Com team.  I noticed at least 2 other sites that are STILL asking about specific figures (some of them twice).  If they are going to piss away a question like that, they should be forced to give their questions to other sites who actually ask decent questions.  It truly boggles the mind.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on September 20, 2006, 09:11 AM
Yeah, more great questions from the JD team.  Although there are still a lot of "no comment" type of answers, it does seem like we can read between the lines a little with some of Hasbro's answers.  I noticed in one of the answers this week, they did say there would not be a VTSC Jawa coming next year - as was rumored.  However, when asked about figures such as Jedi Luke, VTSC Bespin Luke/Han, they simply gave a "wait and see".  Maybe that will mean something, maybe not, but I sure hope we see all three of those figures next year in some capacity.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 20, 2006, 09:26 AM
There was a also a specific question regarding the possibility of the VTSC Death Squad Commander. The answer was interesting because they said they have to figure out a way to make the saga mold better first. ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 20, 2006, 11:57 AM
There was a also a specific question regarding the possibility of the VTSC Death Squad Commander. The answer was interesting because they said they have to figure out a way to make the saga mold better first. ???

Is the person that answers the questions a sculptor/designer or just a marketing/cheerleader person.  I realize everytime one of us whines about a figure or blasts it that these guys are basically hearing how terrible we think THEY are etc.  But the way they really latch onto to certain sculpts and think they are the best ever really concerns me.

No one wants to do their best and be told it could be better, but look at it subjectively...no Saga Sculpt lives up to the VOTC/VSTC standard (unless it was once released as VOTC/VSTC).

A DST based on any Saga sculpt should start with the DS Gunner boots and be all new  all the way up.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 21, 2006, 04:16 AM
Yeah there is no DST figure save for the original back in 1998, so I dunno what the thought was there... 

Look at it this way though guys.  I personally asked about a new, to-scale Speederbike now that we have a new Biker Scout that's all spiffy and whatnot...  I got a very favorable response back on that, and that the idea was an interesting one, etc...  I was geeked.  :)

Then SSG asked like the last round of Q's about a new Speederbike because, well, I can only assume they don't pay attention, don't care, or it simply slipped past their radar on the Q's and they duplicated...  They got an ok response but they also got a reply that implied the current Speederbike is "decent"...  Obviously that's coming from 2 different mindsets it seems.

I think wires just get crossed is all...  I don't know what was up with a DST there, but there's nothing to compare to so I'm assuming they just misread the question on some level and thus the answer.

BTW thanks for the kind words on the Q&A...  It's actually fairly hard in its own way to get in the good Q's and get back equally good answers.  Duplication is already rampant in the Q&A, the question quality wavers as Hasbro make it clearer and clearer what they will/won't answer, so it is nice to know the efforts being made are appreciated.

Hasbro's been pretty good about the Q&A too themselves, despite some utterly **** answers from time to time...  The Q&A has still been a positive I think.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 22, 2006, 04:47 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 9/15 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1158957874,48773,).

- Why is Jerjerrod so angry?
- Is it time for a transforming Droideka yet?
- ANH McQuarrie figures only or ESB and/or Jedi concepts too?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 22, 2006, 07:32 PM
The answer for Jerjerrod is the kind of thing I wish they KNEW annoyed collectors. 

Did it enhance the figure?  No.

Did it make it more interesting for the kiddies?  Every time I see Endor Wave, he/3PO are who I see so I'm gonna say no.

Did it really leave the collectors wanting a GOOD version of him?  I think so...  for those who wanted the character made in the first place.

On the bright side, the figure can have his legs repositioned doing the "Boil & Freeze" I do believe...  The face, well, with some snappy painting one could fix it but it's nothing "simple" like the boil & freeze and that's really something many won't want to do.  I'm disappointed honestly.  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on September 22, 2006, 09:30 PM
I assumed Jerjerrod was angry b/c of the time it took Hasbro to turn him into an action figure :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on September 22, 2006, 09:34 PM
No Jawa sort of sucks.
A SA Jerjerrod, would be a figure taht would move Hasbro!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 23, 2006, 11:37 AM
The answer for Jerjerrod is the kind of thing I wish they KNEW annoyed collectors. 

Did it really leave the collectors wanting a GOOD version of him?  I think so...  for those who wanted the character made in the first place.


Not only that, but that decision seems to be an old way of thinking. I would think it should have been proven by now that accuracy above all else is what helps to make figures well liked.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 24, 2006, 01:55 AM
Well, Hasbro, you have confirmed that there will be a new Qui-Gon next year. You've also confirmed that there will be a new Mace Windu, as well. Now can you tell us if a brand new Luke Skywalker (in his Death Star 2 outfit) is coming next year? (YF, 9/22/06) (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=790)

You have asked the right question, but you'll have to wait until closer to a specific wave before we can reveal more 2007 figures. Does that help?

After hearing news on both super articulated versions of Mace Windu and Qui-Gon Jinn, what are the chances of seeing a super articulated version of Luke Skywalker in his Death Star II costume? We now know this Luke was among the top 25 in the Fan Choice poll results but not the winner, yet this iconic version of Luke from the last half of ROTJ has long deserved a high-quality figure, and it'd even have several additional applications (such as a removable vest, and removable Endor helmet & poncho), so when can fans expect to see this? (AF, 9/19/06) (http://www.actionfigs.com/index.php?categoryid=12&p2_articleid=162)

You will have to wait and see if a new Luke is part of the line next year.

When will we see a Luke Skywalker in Death Star 2 outfit figure? In the fan's choice poll, "super articulated final duel costume Luke" made the top 25, and fan's want this figure over any other Luke Skywalker from Return of the Jedi (no Jabba's Palace vest). What are the chances we'll see one next year? (F, 6/30/06) (http://www.figures.com/databases/action.cgi?setup_file=fignews2.setup&category=actionfigures&topic=77&show_article=442&nl=1)

We can't answer this before the results of the Fan's Choice Poll are revealed prior to Comic-Con.

As the Fan's Choice Poll revealed, collectors are clamoring for a Super Articulated Luke Skywalker in his Death Star II outfit, the 2003 Saga figure (Throne Room Duel Luke) was a let down and fans badly want a version of this figure done right a la Ep 3 Pilot Obi-Wan or Count Dooku. When can we expect to see this figure, assuming he has not won the Fan's Choice Poll? (SSG, 6/30/06) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76)

We can't answer this before the results of the Fan's Choice Poll are revealed prior to Comic Con.

You said VOTC/VTSC figures are based on fan popularity. Does this mean that an SA Jedi Luke (with removable soft goods cloak and grey tunic) is a good bet for this line? His popularity with fans is obvious since he made the Top 25 in the poll. (AFI, 6/23/06) (http://www.actionfigureinsider.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=3510&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=36)

Very good question. A SA Jedi Luke is at the top of our list of potential candidate for the next line of vintage figures.

Attention all other sites: 

Please stop asking about a new "Luke Skywalker in Death Star II outfit" figure.  Everybody wants one, including Hasbro, who have even hinted about it on several occasions.  It's more a matter of "when" as opposed to "if."  It's gonna happen, sooner or later.  And if not next year, then it's a shoe-in for 2008--Jedi's 25th anniversary. 

So please quit asking questions about this guy and save those questions for "original" things like big vehicles, big playsets, and Darth Bunghole or whoever from the latest Exhausted Universe cash-grab.

Thank you.











P.S.


Of all the figure that have been released in the modern era(1995-2006), are there any you'd personally like to see resculpted? (YF, 6/23/06) (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=312)

Personally, of all the figures in the modern era, I'd like to see a really great resculpted Jedi Luke.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on September 25, 2006, 05:40 PM
I'm amazed how quickly redundancy actually took over the Q&A as it has...  It's just a surprise I wouldn't have expected out of an open Q&A thing going on with the H.  I suppose it's part of why it took them a while to open up to the fans more, and that I shouldn't have been surprised due to what has been asked at Q&A's at conventions in the past, I still just was a little shocked that questions seemingly dry up fast around the net.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CorranHorn on September 25, 2006, 06:13 PM
I'm amazed how quickly redundancy actually took over the Q&A as it has...  It's just a surprise I wouldn't have expected out of an open Q&A thing going on with the H.  I suppose it's part of why it took them a while to open up to the fans more, and that I shouldn't have been surprised due to what has been asked at Q&A's at conventions in the past, I still just was a little shocked that questions seemingly dry up fast around the net.

I'm not too surprised actually as it became clear early on that some sites weren't getting a lot of thought out questions. Just like the DS2 Luke questions Matt just posted, there was a similar occurence with SA Mace questions early on from several sites, including I believe a couple of sites which asked the question more than once. Then you had many of the sites asking the "when are we going to get this" questions and it wasn't until a few weeks in that we started to see well rounded questions out of more than 2 or 3 sites. I wasn't too surprised when Hasbro's rep for the most part stopped answering the "when are we getting figure A or vehicle B" questions as that's rather exhausting and doesn't exactly give us juicy info.

In fact it's been my observation that a couple of sites are just asking the same questions near verbatim the week after other sites have posed them - especially annoying when it's a question Hasbro went into depth earlier and don't seem to want to answer again. This leads to one of two scenarios, either the sites aren't paying enough attention to what is being asked elsewhere and that's only likely in a couple of cases where the site in question thinks of themselves as the only ones around asking the questions. Or the other possibility is that the site or the people providing the questions for the site has a narrow view of where their readers go to and expect that the questions they ask are being seen for the first time by their readers.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 25, 2006, 10:23 PM
It boggles the mind really.

I would almost like to see Hasbro go Soup Nazi on some of these guys and not let them ask questions for a week or two.  I'd accept it if JD was asking questions like "How many fingers am I holding up?" or "If Teflon is a non-stick surface, how does it stick to the pan?"....

As stated above, everybody wants certain figures, but Hasbro and the self-important question answerers have clearly stated they will not be aswering those questions.  I don't know, I'd almost be embarrassed at this point if any of the answers came back as...."Can't tell you now" or "We will not release that information".....

Makes me appreciate the staff here more every week.  (Even if they haven't asked my question yet).

I know I stray to the other sites on Fridays just to see what the questions are.  I only knew of SSG, GH, Scum and here before this whole question thing...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 26, 2006, 12:23 AM
This one had me scratching my head this last week:

Quote
Any plans for a VOTC Bespin Luke or Han Solo figure in 2007? (JI, 9/19/06) (http://jediinsider.com/index.php?catid=8&itemid=9805)

We can't address any more specific character questions for the line next year. You'll have to wait and see...

Why was that so befuddling to me?

Because the same site asked the same exact question two months ago.

Quote
Any chance of seeing a VOTC Bespin Luke Skywalker or Han Solo figure in 2007? (JI, 7/26/06) (http://jediinsider.com/index.php?catid=8&itemid=9693)

You'll have to wait and see what the 2007 vintage line has in store.

So are they asking the same exact question because they think that, since Hasbro has let slip a few moments of candor with regards to some other figures in past weeks, that now's the time to ask again about the Bespin dudes?  Or are they just idiots who aren't keeping track of their own questions?

I know I stray to the other sites on Fridays just to see what the questions are.  I only knew of SSG, GH, Scum and here before this whole question thing...

Yeah, I hear ya.  If only we had a feature here which compiled all the questions in one place, so that one wouldn't have to travel to a dozen different sites just to read all the questions. . .   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 26, 2006, 09:23 AM


Yeah, I hear ya.  If only we had a feature here which compiled all the questions in one place, so that one wouldn't have to travel to a dozen different sites just to read all the questions. . .   :-\

Oh your fine work is not lost on me.  I just get bored at the office on Friday afternoons and have instant gratification syndrome.  It has become more of a morbid fascination now, just to look at the train wrecks across the Web.

I'll stay in my own backyard (JD.com) from now on....
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 26, 2006, 01:27 PM
I'll stay in my own backyard (JD.com) from now on....

No worries, Paul--just giving you a little **** in my roundabout, passive-aggressive way.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on September 27, 2006, 10:27 PM
You know that is part of the reason that Hasbro has to always mess with us.  B/c of the way this questions are made and the fact they are often repeated (between sites do not even get me started on within sites) it tells them we are unorganized and fragmented as a community which translates to more $$ for them.

It is practically a license to dick us around with repaints, repacks and rehashes b/c we will take it.

I have not been in a toy run in about 2 weeks and I feel so relaxed about it.  I guess I am almost done with this hobby. :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 29, 2006, 02:31 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 9/22 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1159554509,46595,).

- a possible fan poll for "greatest hits" repacks?
- what was the deal with those 2003/2003 bases?
- a whole EU wave next year?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 29, 2006, 04:48 PM
Hasbro taketh away:

Quote
How about one good playset in 2007. Please Hasbro. (YF, 9/29/06) (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=823)

We've discussed playsets to death, I think. There won't be any in 2007. Sorry!

. . .and Hasbro giveth!

Quote
But if you follow my distracting hand movements over to the new vehicles, I think you'll be very happy.

I've heard rumours about a 3 3/4 scale Sith Infiltrator? First of all, is it true? And secondly will it be scaled like the 'real' ship [ideally with space for a couple of probe droids and a Sith speeder or is it going to be a modified TIE fighter with room for one pilot? (YF, 9/29/06) (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=823)

Yes, it is true. It will be develoepd for the $19.99 Starfighter Vehicle line, so liberties will be taken with scale but there will be cool features and will be designed for one pilot. We can't wait to show fans the final product…it's a sensational vehicle.

(LOL, by the way, on the playset answer.  If that's not a sign to quit asking about them, I don't know what is. . .)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on September 29, 2006, 05:50 PM
So...the Infiltrator will be for the $19.99 line?

 :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on September 29, 2006, 08:12 PM
I thought that was clear from the last time the Infiltrator question was asked.

Here I have to agree with Matt.  For ***** sake stop asking about damn playsets!  We all want them and they are not going to make the damn things so move on and be unhappy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: iFett on September 29, 2006, 09:04 PM
The Infiltrator is going to suck ass at a $19.99 price point IMO.  It does deserve a window box which I highly doubt a $20 vehicle to fit in + it's obviously going to be highly underscaled.  Besides the Queen's Starship, this is the second best ship to release from Ep1.

I'll still buy the ship because I'm Hasbro's bitch though...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on September 29, 2006, 10:16 PM
The Infiltrator's a big ship with five seconds of screen time from an almost eight-year-old movie.  I think we're lucky to be getting it at all at this point--even at the price and size it's gonna be.  It should have been released in 1999 or 2000.

(This Hasbro apologist cannot wait for the deluge of complaints when the first pics show up sometime in the next few months. . .) 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 30, 2006, 08:11 AM
Finally some answers to questions that I actually care about...

1.  Death Star Trooper is definately coming and will be all new (I am both scared and excited at the same time)

2.  Letting the fans help decide the Greatest Battles assortments of repacks (but I fear we will be given a list of pegwarmers to choose from, not actually get a blank slate to choose from)

3.  It sounded like the realized the VOTC2 Biker Scout was not packed to the proper ratio.  And mentioned fixing that for the 2007 versions.  Do we take that to mean the Vintage-esque is definately coming back in 2007.

Maybe JD.com should ask 3 playset questions next week, just so we can keep up the quota.....

I thought it was interesting the only figure they will admit is a failure was the Cruise Missle trooper. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on September 30, 2006, 08:49 AM
They've said there'll be more VOTC when this thing started. :P
I really hope they have lots of VOTC/Clones to choose from when they let us.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on September 30, 2006, 02:14 PM
I forgot another nugget of news...WM, Target and TRU exclusives will be available on their Websites, albeit in limited numbers.

And a big thank you to MATT...I controlled my urges to look at other sites (and was very busy yesterday) so I was able to just check the compiled list.  You save me hours of clicking...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on October 1, 2006, 02:29 PM
The Infiltrator is going to suck ass at a $19.99 price point IMO. 

I agree. That's why I'm using my re-bigulator on it when I get it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 6, 2006, 01:24 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 9/29 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1160155228,60770,).

- Remote Control?
- SA Porkins?
- "Team Star Wars" R2-D2?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on October 6, 2006, 02:06 PM
Well you have to admit those were unique questions this time. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 6, 2006, 10:03 PM
Another week, another round of questions that have been asked  or that they have said not to ask....it boggles the mind...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on October 6, 2006, 10:12 PM
Quote
The Infiltrator is going to suck ass at a $19.99 price point IMO.

Agreed.

I know what you're saying though Matt, and I agree with the points made (it's old, from an old film, etc.) but this vehicle snob is going to easily turn his nose up at a $19.99 Infiltrator.  It's gotta be way undersized to be at that pricepoint.

Not that it bothers me really, I don't really care about that ship anyhow, I just know it's something I will have complaints about.  Vehicles are something I have come to view much the same way 12" Figures became...  They're something Hasbro rarely does well, though I do believe they have a better track record on ships than they did the 12" line overall. 

The Infiltrator is too big for the $20 mark though so I'm pretty sure this'll be a pass for me.  They've made some cool features in undersized ships though so I'm sure this'll have something neat to it.  The Gunship and ARC Fighter both were good toys, just way undersized which kills it for me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 13, 2006, 10:26 AM
Just a quick note:

Due to the holiday-shortened work week for our friends at Hasbro, the Star Wars Weekly Q&A submission that we sent on October 6th will be not be answered until October 20th.

So, once again, no new answers this week.  Might be a good time to review Matt's mega Q&A thread (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12930.0) to think up some new/follow-up questions to ask Hasbro (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Famine on October 13, 2006, 04:32 PM
Just a quick note:Due to the holiday-shortened work week for our friends at Hasbro,

Haha. Friends. Ha.

Ha ha.

Kevin
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 13, 2006, 07:12 PM
Perhaps I can help alleviate everyones withdrawl.

Hasbro's answers to burning Questions from other sites:

No Playsets next year.

Stop asking about specific figures.

Playsets are not planned for next year.

That is a good idea we'll take it under consideration.

Playsets are not in next year plans.

Didn't you ask that question last week?

Next year playsets? Not Planned.


(Just a little sarcasm on a Friday afternoon)



Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 20, 2006, 09:57 PM
I've waited a week for canned answers to repeat questions.......Was there another Holiday in Rhode Island this week that the rest of the country didn't get to take?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 20, 2006, 11:05 PM
It must have been a busy Friday at the big H... I've seen nothing from them yet and I don't see anyone else posting Q&As this week either.    :-\

Last time it happened, the answers showed up Wednesday of the following week, so maybe we'll get a double-shot next week?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 22, 2006, 09:06 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 10/13 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1161565479,56329,).

- more "Ephant Mon" sized figures possible?
- bad news on that Preview Sculpt R2-D2  :'(
- Felucia Battle Pack Confirmed!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 23, 2006, 09:53 AM
And thanks to Matt's hard work we have the following tally:

Playset Questions:  4

Specific Figures Questions:  4

But at least they weren't all the same question.....

And this weeks proof that Hasbro is WAY out of touch with what is happening at retail....this Q and A...

...Nearly every Target, Toys R Us, and Wal-mart is stuffed with those figures which move much slower and have no room to put out the newest TSC wave, Endor 2/The Phantom Menace. Now Hasbro is saying this "greatest hits" style of assortment will be continuing next year. Why are new-product case assortments still such a problem, what is Hasbro doing to deal with the problems beyond simple case revisions, and - understanding that there is some need for older figures to keep a continued presence on shelves - how will the current problems of the "greatest hits" assortment be addressed? (SSG, 10/22/06)

Just as Collections 1 and 2 in prior years had dediciated space on the pegs, so too will the two basic figure assortments next year (and they also do now, by the way, sit side by side with separate assigned space in the planogram). Retailers replenish figures based on the sell through rate of the assortment, so when stores sell down on 85770 (TSC), they will reorder more. The 87181 (Greatest Hits) have no effect whatsoever on this replenishment. Inventory is managed to keep ample stock on both assortments, independent of how you see them put back on the pegs at the end of the day. One more thing, too - you couldn't be further off regarding the sales of the Greatest Hits figures. They have been a runaway hit and the reason why we are creating a new assortment for next year to keep this going.

Maybe I'll go take a picture of Every Wal Mart and Target in town and let them see that "Bob Minimum Wage" doesn't give a rat's ass about assortment numbers, he puts stuff on the Star Wars pegs from the Star Wars box...I worked at retail in college, I know they want the stuff to be on the right shelf, but managers hate empty pegs more than incorrect assortment sorting...

If the TSC peg is clogged with the Peg Melting H&V wave then it won't scan as empty will it?


Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on October 23, 2006, 11:23 AM
I do not think Hasbro is wrong about the greatest hits selling well.  Hasbro sold them ;D, it is the stores at retail that cannot sell the damn things.  Big H sold of as many assortments as it could.

One of my local Targets has 18 pegs of Greatest figs packed with figures on the shelves below. :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 23, 2006, 11:46 AM
Even though there are tons of H&V figures on the pegs at your local store, they still may be selling quite well...

I think back to the "Hulk Hands" from a few years ago.  Those damn things were in HUGE numbers everywhere I went.  I would have sworn it was the worst selling toy ever based on how many I kept seeing, but they ended up being the #1 toy seller that year. Sure, the local TRU had 100 on the shelf, but they were selling 10 pairs per day and stocking 20 every other day.

Out of curiosity on the H&V, I started checking my local Target every other day.  Despite the fact that each day there were 20-24 figures on the pegs, the actual figures on the pegs kep changing.  One day there would be Pilot Obi-Wans and Shocktroopers, the next they'd be gone replaced by Yoda and Vader and Droidekas.  Then, the next time, the Yodas would be gone and replaced by something else. Etc, etc, etc.  The mix kept changing every few days.

As near as I could tell, that Target stocked at least 7 cases (84 figures) of H&V over a 2 week period.  The whole time though there were 20-24 figures on the pegs.  If you weren't looking closely at the content of the pegs and just seeing the full pegs, you would think they haven't sold anything in 2 weeks, when really they had sold about 85-90 figures.

Even if only half of the Targets (650 out of 1300 stores) are selling the H&V as well as my local Target (let's say 40 figures per week), that works out to a crap load of H&V figures being moved each week (nearly 26,000 H&V figures sold each week).   And that's just Target and not even counting TRU and Wal-Mart! :o

Maybe they really are selling better than we can see...

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 23, 2006, 01:14 PM
You might be right there Jeff, but my concern then is why aren't the Endor and Naboo waves being mixed in to the rotation.

My main rant was that Hasbro claims that the pegs are "segregated" so that HV and Greatest Hits lines are not clogging the TSC portion of the pegs.  It was mostly my experience that I see the ROTS re-releases filling the TSC pegs as well as their own.  Whether they sell through or not I don't know, when I see prequel stuff it is the visual equivilant of Charlie Brown's Teacher talking...just noise.  I am going to start keeping track, just to see.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on October 23, 2006, 01:24 PM
That's the same situation here, the figures (Greatest Battles/H&V and the regular basic line) are pretty much all on the same pegs.  Target and TRU seem to have their pegs labeled differently, and are sometimes stocked correctly, but customers take care of that throughout the day I think.  Wal-Mart doesn't even try, they're just all piled together - usually on the shelf below the pegs :).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 27, 2006, 11:44 PM
The Hasbro Q&A for JD from 10/20 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1162006334,58272,).

- More 7" Unleashed in 2007?
- Willl we see the Imp army builders from the 30th Anniversary Tins again?
- Comic Packs Wave 2?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Mikey D on October 28, 2006, 09:25 AM
Quote
Star Wars 7" Unleashed - Have the Target and Wal-Mart exclusive reissues sold well enough to keep the line going into 2007? If so, will we see new Unleashed sculpts or will we see more repacks & repaints (if it's re-issues, any chance you could work the Stormtrooper piece into the mix for 2007)? (JD, 10/27/06)

There will be additional 7" reissues next year, but along the lines of the same "greatest hits" format. But there will be some twists, including a version of the figure you mention. Stay tuned!


So it's almost a guarantee that the following list is accurate:

Quote
This is from today's R2DToys Newsletter:

BRAND NEW UNLEASHED for 2007!!

Anakin Skywalker Unleashed New US Box!
Obi-Wan Kenobi Unleashed New US Box!
Shadow Trooper Unleashed New US Box!

So more pegwarming Anakins and Obi-Wans and a repainted figure of one of the hardest, if not the hardest, Unleashed to find.   ::)  **** you, Hasbro.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on October 28, 2006, 11:06 AM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 10/13 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1161565479,56329,).

- more "Ephant Mon" sized figures possible?
- bad news on that Preview Sculpt R2-D2  :'(
- Felucia Battle Pack Confirmed!
They said "that" figure, maybe we'll see itas another version. If not I'll be pissed off like hell.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on October 28, 2006, 04:43 PM
I don't understand Hasbro.  They cancel the 7" Unleashed line because the sales were supposedly poor.  But than act like they are doing everyone a favor by rerelease figures that were supposedly not a good seller.  Sorry, I don't understand it.  You might be able to sell BRAND NEW NEVER BEHORE SCUPTED versions.  Dear God.  HELLO HASBRO!!!  HELLO!!!!  (in my best Biff voice from Back to the Future)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: MetalJedi on October 28, 2006, 05:44 PM
Hasbro will never be understood for their bad decisions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on October 28, 2006, 05:54 PM
Fett seems to be selling but's that's because it's a Fett. :P
Yeah, I would much prefer new sculpts. Those would of sold quicker, up to the point of being HTF.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on October 28, 2006, 08:28 PM
Just noticed this, which I thought was kinda funny:

1.

Quote
The Target computer system is showing an Imperial Shuttle (DCPI #087-06-0483) coming with a $59.99 price tag. Is this a repack of the old FAO Schwarz exclusive, or is it something from another line? (SWC, 8/04/06) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=823)

No comment.

2.

Quote
Is there any word on when the Target-exclusive Imperial Shuttle will be out on shelves? The product's DPCI# is 087-06-0483 and it's saying its $59.99. (SWC, 9/29/06) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=863)

No comment.

3.

Quote
There have been rumors that you may have a Star Wars item at certain stores -- more specifically Target -- that will be released on Black Friday (day after Thanksgiving), can you confirm or deny this? (SWC, 10/22/06) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=874)

I cannot address this issue for any retailer. Sorry.

4.

Quote
After responding "No comment" to several past queries, can you now tell us anything about the rumored Imperial Shuttle with Darth Vader and Royal Guard figures that is supposed to be a Target-exclusive? (SWC, 10/27/06) (http://www.swcollector.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=880)

Nope! (SWC note: Target.com has already confirmed this exclusive.)

SWCollector.com:  You Can't Say We're Not Persistent!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on October 28, 2006, 09:20 PM
There is persistance and then there is blantant stupidity. ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on October 28, 2006, 10:54 PM
They need a two question session Penalty.  The can't ask another question till Nov 17th.

And now for my weekly recap or should we call it the re-cRap:

Specific Figure Questions:  4 (but one was a Tonnika Sisters question...so bonus for that mistake)

Playset Questions: NONE, I am so proud of the community, means next week is Playset-o-rama...


New Annoyances: 

1.  Micro Machine and Action Fleet questions.  They have said no, the horse is dead, stop beating it.
2.  Complaining and nitpicking figures during the Q&A...great way to ensure the sessions end sooner than later.  Everybody likes to be told they suck at their job by their clients/customers.
3.  Big H contradicting themselves yet again.   In one question we get..IF the product shows up in the retailers computer, it is pretty much a done deal....in another they cannot confirm something that is on a retailers website.

Will we get questions/answers next week?  Or does Rhode Island take Halloween off as a holiday?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on October 30, 2006, 09:42 AM
Yeah, the likely (re)release of Anakin and Obi-Wan in the 7" Unleashed line next year is really a head scratcher.  Not surprising, mind you, but I think we're probably seeing the end of this line at this point - which is a shame.  Even if they want to "test the waters" with re-released figures instead of new ones, there are a lot better choices out there that could probably sell out (Yoda, Han, Stormtrooper, etc.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on October 30, 2006, 02:16 PM
Quote
Do some other Star Wars sites/forums get exclusive official polling rights with Hasbro, or do all sites get equal input?  If we are all equal which figures does Sandtroopers.com get to have in our poll?  And what other sites will be included in this polling survey?

I honestly had trouble believing this got through...  Look I'm not a Rebelscum fan, but I think it was fairly obvious the how's and why's...  Why ask? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on November 3, 2006, 03:01 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 10/27 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1162583907,82982,)...

No Bespin in 2007? :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on November 3, 2006, 03:12 PM
I am really hoping that the "no Bespin in 2007" comment isn't including the rumored VTSC figures of Han and Luke.  I was really looking forward to those, even though they weren't confirmed :).  Maybe they just mean there won't be a Bespin "wave" in the basic line.  Maybe...maybe? :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on November 3, 2006, 03:17 PM
That's how I took it - no Bespin wave.  But maybe he meant no Bespin Han, too, which would be okay by me (I'd prefer a SA Hoth Han myself).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on November 3, 2006, 03:32 PM
Oh, I'd take a SA Hoth Han Solo any day as well, but I've just always been a fan of the Bespin get up for Han - although I think the POTJ figure is pretty good too, at least compared to its time.  I guess we'll see what they meant by the "no Bespin" comment though, eventually.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: P-Siddy on November 3, 2006, 04:08 PM
No Willrow Hood in '07??? What the heck?? I agree with the post about Bespin. There are so many cool figures to pull from there... hasbro can release tons of Vaders, Hans, or Lukes as long as they release some of the others like Piett (Escape from Bespin), Luke and Leia (Medical Frigate), etc. It's a little disappointing, so hopefully they'll get around to it in '08

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on November 3, 2006, 06:56 PM
Perhaps there is a silver lining though.  They said something to the effect that it will be worth the wait when they revisit Bespin.  I am assuming that could be a hint for you Willrow Hood fans.  Or maybe not.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: David on November 3, 2006, 08:37 PM
im surprised they didnt say: yes, there were bespin figures this year: Vader, Chewbacca, and Aurra Sing  ::)  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Roton7 on November 3, 2006, 11:47 PM
Even though I'm not a huge fan of ICMG, maybe what they meant by "it'll be worth the wait" is that Willrow will be included in the future Bespin wave.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on November 4, 2006, 09:24 AM
Seems like this week is riddled with Marvel Legends questions which has already been answered 2-3 times...

I do like the idea of Build-A-______ be it figure or playset though.  I'd see it as a way to get a dais or Cantina U or bigger things like Hermi or a Vaporator

It would also be a way to make sure people buy all of a wave
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on November 4, 2006, 01:41 PM
THis weeks proof that Hasbro doesn't know dick about "retail"

At FFURG, we're quite excited about the new fan poll at Rebelscum for next year's Greatest Hits (GH) as it will give customizers an opportunity to obtain many figures that are currently quite scarce on the secondary market. You've stated in previous Q&As on other sites that the Greatest Hits are a separate collection from the main collection of new releases. Does it concern Hasbro that the pegs in stores are full of GH figures that aren't moving, leaving no room for other waves of new figures? We're concerned that if there's no room on the pegs, we won't see much of the 2007 GH waves. Is it simply the result of having this year's GH figures be such recent releases from EP3? Do you feel 2007 line of GH figures, with the entire saga to draw from, will do better than the current 2006 GH? (FFURG, 11/03/06)

Actually the situation is the reverse, which is why we like to remind folks that what they see (or would like to believe) does not reflect the real, national situation for Star Wars. But it does give us a chance to explain. Flow of new stock in to retail is automated based on stock levels and the need to replace sold inventory. The Greatest Hits figures are flying even faster than the main collection, due largely to a huge amount of kids engaged in the brand (a very good thing). However, since they are separately managed from a stock perspective (there are two different assortments set up, like Coll 1/Coll 2), with dedicated pegs, the abundance or lack thereof of Greatest Hits has nothing to do with the stock levels of the regular Saga assortment. And thanks for the support on the Fan's Choice vote!


Really Hasbro?  you think the pegs aren't CLOGGED with Not-so-Greatest Hits and Heroes and Pegwarmers figs? 

I say we all take pictures at every retail outlet in town and send them in.  I'll even put up a "bounty" for the person with the MOST pictures.  I believe in calling bull**** when you have to and this is one of those "have to" moments for me.

The pegs may be "dedicated" but the stocker is not...they just fill Star Wars Pegs A and B with whatever is in the box...which oddly is all "B"...and we are taking it in the "A"....
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on November 4, 2006, 04:30 PM
Around here, the bulk of the GH stuff sells.  3-PO and Padme sit, but I expect them to vanish the close we get to the holidays, when parents are looking for any SW character to fill a stocking.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on November 4, 2006, 04:53 PM
If only we could "tag" individual carded figs to see if they do indeed move and get replenished by a fresh card, or if the same old figures sit there.  I can't imagine Hasbro wishing to lose money, so they have to be somewhat accurate about the sales figures.  Surely, though, they're aware of how quickly figures like the Biker Scout, DS Gunner, AT-AT Driver, etc sell and want to put more army builders out there...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on November 4, 2006, 05:04 PM

Really Hasbro?  you think the pegs aren't CLOGGED with Not-so-Greatest Hits and Heroes and Pegwarmers figs? 

I say we all take pictures at every retail outlet in town and send them in.  I'll even put up a "bounty" for the person with the MOST pictures.  I believe in calling bull**** when you have to and this is one of those "have to" moments for me.

The pegs may be "dedicated" but the stocker is not...they just fill Star Wars Pegs A and B with whatever is in the box...which oddly is all "B"...and we are taking it in the "A"....

Exactly, Paul.  The pegs at the local WMs, TRUs, and Targets might have space set aside for the regular assortments and the "Greatest Hits" assortments, but to the stockperson making minimum wage or slightly above that, all they signify is space for SW figures.  The only time I have EVER seen the figures separated according to Collection designation was at the Episode I Midnight Madness at Wal-Mart where Collections 1, 2, and 3 had their own areas.  Within a few days, that had even fallen by the wayside. 

The fact of the matter is that the GB/H&V assortments are pegwarming.  There are some figures that sell but the majority sit.  Dedicated space or not, more H&V/GB get put out than the regular figure assortments, taking up space that could be used to get actual new figures in the basic line on the pegs.  All the stores see are full pegs of SW figures and NOTHING gets put out because there just isn't room.

The thing that gets me is that this is about the third or fourth time that Hasbro has used this "Your situation is not necessarily indicative of retail nationwide" when the whole reason we are so worried is because the internet communities are nation-wide and this is what ALL of us are seeing!  It's not just Paducah, Kentucky that is seeing a thousand Mace Windus, Threepios, and Padmes, Hasbro: it's every town east, west, north, and south of Paducah that are seeing the same thing, every time we walk into a retailer!

At this point, I have absolutely no faith in Hasbro's ability to make a sound choice when it comes to the marketing of this line.  They make one silly comment after another when their strategies are questioned, treat the people who buy their products as if they should be kissing their feet for the honor of seeing 50 million Padmes at Wal-Mart every day, and insult people by releasing what can only be termed as a substandard product (I'm looking in the general direction of those "dirty" Stormtroopers in the upcoming Tantive IV BP) when they know full well what people want. 

I have to ask:  Does Pawtucket exist in a different plane of reality than the rest of the world?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JesseVader08 on November 6, 2006, 03:57 AM
WTF is with AFT and SSG asking 6 questions each and Sandtroopers asking NINE questions?  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on November 6, 2006, 04:10 AM
Question envy maybe?  Like people who have to have a big truck or the most expensive sports car they can find to compensate for inadequacies? :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 6, 2006, 04:36 AM
All three sites have had issues recently with getting their questions answered (due to both questioner and questionee error), so Hasbro gave them extra answers to make up for it.  I believe everybody should be caught up at this point.

My own opinion--I think most of the questions those sites ask are garbage anyway, so nine bull**** Sandpooper questions, for instance, is pretty much equal to three good questions from JD or GH.   ;D

But, the way I look at it, the more questions asked and answered, the better--no matter how bad they are.

And speaking of Sandpoopers, some followup (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12758.msg266133#msg266133) whining, which I loved:

Quote
Using Star Wars collector sites to run a fan poll is a great idea. It's also an opportunity for a specific site to introduce itself to thousands of potential members the site may otherwise never have a chance to reach.  In the future will you allow other collector sites to have this exclusive opportunity? It's a win-win situation for everyone and Hasbro doesn't run the risk of offending anyone.

It's interesting to me that one of the only (if not the only) SW sites which requires people to register just to be able to look at their forums is somehow upset that they're missing out on "thousands of potential members" by not being part of the Greatest Hits voting process.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on November 6, 2006, 09:22 AM
I'll have to get my weekly recap/box score/post-game up later today. 

I agree about the volume of questions being good, I just fear that eventually the customer (dis)service folks that answer these questions on a weekly basis will grow tired of the weekly "When is Clone Concept #3212.1 Coming" or "Why do you like that other website more than you like us" questions and pull the plug.


Question envy maybe?  Like people who have to have a big truck or the most expensive sports car they can find to compensate for inadequacies? :)

SIR!! I have the truck to carry my Armies around (and I'm a Texan, it came with my birth certificate)...the sports car is so I can beat the scalpers to the stores....problem is once I find the stuff, I can only fit 2 figures in the car (4 if I take them home loose)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 6, 2006, 11:55 AM
When perusing the Archive, which flavor do you guys prefer:  Categorical, or Chronological?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on November 6, 2006, 05:10 PM
Chronological.  Only because I make an effort to read it (your QnA thread) every week.  I suppose if one were looking for an answer to a specific question, then categorically would be the answer.

But for me, chronological is the only way to go.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Biffette on November 7, 2006, 01:33 AM
I used the categorical to catch up when I joined.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on November 7, 2006, 03:14 AM
Matt, I've actually found I use both a lot...  Actually for site purposes too, it's been helpful.  I'm a big fan of chronological though more than anything I'd say, but I've enjoyed both...  It's gotta be a ton of work though I'm sure, and you've done great with it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on November 7, 2006, 07:58 AM
I like the Chronological one myself.  Because I can jump on it Fridays and see what's new in questions from around the Web...without having to scour them myself.  Concise, Convenient and Complete!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on November 7, 2006, 09:20 AM
I've used both as well, but lately I find myself using the chronological just to check the current week's answers.  Thanks so much again for all the time and effort put into creating and maintaining both, its much appreciated.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on November 7, 2006, 10:42 AM
Yes, Matt deserves a promotion.

To what, I have no idea.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 7, 2006, 06:31 PM
Not fishing for compliments here, fellas--just trying to gauge the interest in the archive.

At any rate, the feedback is appreciated, and more is certainly welcomed.

After all, the future of the Q & A archive may depend on you!


















(Not really.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Oboewan on November 8, 2006, 09:13 AM
I, for one, look forward to reading the Archives when they are updated and referring back to them from time to time.   I greatly appreciate the compilation of having the entire gammut of questions in one place rather than having to go to 12 different sites to see what the Questions and Answers are!

Thanks for making it avialable to us!

Oboewan
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 8, 2006, 11:34 AM
I, for one, look forward to reading the Archives when they are updated and referring back to them from time to time.   I greatly appreciate the compilation of having the entire gammut of questions in one place rather than having to go to 12 different sites to see what the Questions and Answers are!

Thanks for making it avialable to us!

Oboewan

Thanks, I guess, but that doesn't really answer my question at all.  Just wanting to know what you guys like more--the categorical side, or the chronological side.

A simple "categorical" or "chronological" would more than suffice.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on November 8, 2006, 12:50 PM
Chronological is best.

(Insert "thank you for doing it" comment here)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on November 8, 2006, 04:56 PM
Chronological....(now I have to go change my IP so I can log back in and ROCK THE VOTE)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on November 10, 2006, 10:00 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 10/27 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1163213532,68703,)...

- Galactic Marine details! (to be fixed soon)
- Two Droids for Ilum!
- Clean Tantive Stormtroopers!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on November 10, 2006, 10:47 PM
Good news on Ilum and Tantive BP's.  I noticed on FFURG's questions they said that the moisture vaparator will come with Luke next year.  That will be cool (especially if there's something newish about him).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on November 12, 2006, 09:28 PM
C'mon.  How are they going to get a moisture vaporator in there with Luke that will be ANYWHERE near the proper size?  I'm sure it will be tops about 5 inches tall, when it should be about 10.  I don't mean to sound crabby, but it's just going to be silly. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on November 13, 2006, 03:57 AM
Wow, what a week of already-asked-questions getting re-asked by sites...  That and smarmy attitudes seemed to come through on some q's I noticed.  But the rampant re-asking of questions other sites already asked is just really nuts this week...  Hell one site re-asked its own question I think.  I saw a couple in there that JD had already asked though and yet they still got re-asked with absolutely no new information given.  Incredible, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised honestly.

The Vaporator's cool news to me because I've always looked at them as varying in design, looks, and then of course height...  That said, I don't expect this to be to-scale to the one Luke's working on in the cut footage either.  More importantly to me, I hope the Luke's that definitive Tat Luke we've REALLY been in need of.  The Farmboy Luke to end all Farmboy Luke figures...  This last one with poncho and hope chest is hands down the worst one since the original POTF2 figure and the VOTC one is riddled with flaws even to the staunchest of softgoods fans.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on November 13, 2006, 10:18 AM
Yeah, we are getting a lot of repeats at this point it seems.  Great job with the questions here again at JD - good job guys.  A few other things I noticed from the Q and A this week:

*15 planned comic packs for next year
*"Final 22" running from approx. December until the end of March 07, then 30AC starts
*V-Wing and Sith Infiltrator are the "new" vehicles next year, so I guess the rest are repacks/repaints

I'm a little disappointed that we might not be seeing the new line until March or so next year.  Maybe that won't be accurate, but we'll see.  I guess it might be good from the aspect that this "last wave" won't be as tough to find as it has in past years.  Also a little disappointing that we already know of the only two new vehicles we're getting next year.  Not surprising I guess, and at least there is something new on the way.  Lots of comic packs too the way it sounds, I didn't think there would be that many.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 13, 2006, 11:46 AM
Wow, what a week of already-asked-questions getting re-asked by sites...  That and smarmy attitudes seemed to come through on some q's I noticed.  But the rampant re-asking of questions other sites already asked is just really nuts this week...  Hell one site re-asked its own question I think.  I saw a couple in there that JD had already asked though and yet they still got re-asked with absolutely no new information given.  Incredible, but I guess I shouldn't be surprised honestly.

There was, however, one question that's never before been asked, which has actually inspired me to come up with something new for this week:

The Worst Question of the Week Award!

Quote
What are the chances of seeing a relaunch of the Collector Fleet series (the larger, electronic starships of the Rebel Blockade Runner, Imperial Star Destroyer, & the very-rare Super Star Destroyer from '96), with new entries such as ROTS ships like the Venator Class Star Destroyer and The Invisible Hand? (SSG, 11/10/06) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=76)

They don't fit any of the strategies we have, so there are no plans for their re-introduction.

Congratulations, SSG, you've wasted a question on the revival of a line that failed miserably at retail nine years ago!  A line which did so poorly in 1997 (back when SW was really hot again and everything was selling--up before the Episode I bust) that only two of the four items ever saw a wide release at retail.  The third was nearly-impossible to find, and the fourth was outright cancelled. 

So yeah, let's ask about more of those boring Collector's Fleet ships.  You never know, they may have just been ahead of their time.  Maybe next week we can ask when Hasbro might return to the days of the super-buff, six-points of articulation figures.

Crossing my fingers!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on November 13, 2006, 05:15 PM
I remember these things warming the shelves at $5 a pop.  I like mine but that is it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on November 14, 2006, 02:53 AM
Quote
I'm a little disappointed that we might not be seeing the new line until March or so next year.

Not me!  :)  A long drawn out period to find everything, do a little army building hopefully, and if you find it all fast you can get some downtime after the holidays on massive spending sprees...  That's not a bad deal to me.  I like the idea of figures at the end of the line/year shipping a while though into the following year...  I mean, just thinking of last year here, I was really SOL on finding everything I wanted for the most part.  I got my ass out of bed for a sale on Black Friday at K-mart last year and had I not braved that nightmare I wouldn't have any of the holo figures, the Wookiee Gunner, etc...  Bly/Gree seemed to ship early in good numbers but those last handful were a bitch to find.  I'm thinking the final 22 may fall in that same category unfortunately if they're not shipped a while longer.

While I think there's a lot of hate to the final wave(s) here of figures, I know I'm planning to build some armies on the Clones and droids, and there's not a lot I'm passing on...  I've been dreading the thought of tracking these down but not now so much.

Quote
The Worst Question of the Week Award!

Genius, and something I'm going to look forward to.  I've been sort of plotting out my own version of this in my mind every week, but it sure is something worth talking about.

I gotta say, the Collector Fleet one was definitely a question hardly anyone must've given a **** about...  The line did tank miserably and probably because if you're going to buy something like that, you may as well buy a model and do a better job than Hasbro did.  For the price you were kind of ripped off on those at the time.  They were sort of poor quality and I speak from experience that the stands didn't hold them up too well, at least the Destroyer anyway.

They were a bad concept best left dead.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on November 14, 2006, 09:18 AM
Quote
A long drawn out period to find everything, do a little army building hopefully, and if you find it all fast you can get some downtime after the holidays on massive spending sprees...  That's not a bad deal to me.  I like the idea of figures at the end of the line/year shipping a while though into the following year

Oh, I agree with that as well.  Its more just that I'm looking forward to that new line/figures next year - but I could definitely use a more spread out break as well.  It seems like spending has been crazy lately, and with Christmas just around the corner that won't help things any.  Plus, I too am hoping this wave won't be as difficult to find.  I'm not looking for all of them, but there are some (BARC Trooper in particular) that I really don't want to miss.  Hopefully this will make it easier for everyone to find what they're looking for, and have a few months to spread the spending out.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on November 17, 2006, 03:38 PM
The Hasbro QnA for Week 19 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1163795489,42087,)...

- 2007 Vintagey offerings?  (notice how they ignore the second half of the question?)
- A return for the 2005 TRU Jedi Starfighters?
- Where do babies Mace Windu Battle Packs come from?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Morgbug on November 17, 2006, 04:04 PM
Thanks Jeff.

Matt,
Just to be weird, but I prefer the categorical over chronological.  I've become far more selective of late, so it's nice to skip to what I want rather than skimming everything.  Regardless, it's a wonderful resource and the effort is appreciated.

Brian/Jesse,
I'm all for the break and think it a wise move by Hasbro (yeah, I actually said that).  As Jesse mentions, post Christmas is a traditional downtime for toys and it's typically worse north of the border (to beat a point to death further, if possible).  So having that gap means we have a good shot at being in on the start of 30AC and might have an opportunity to see the last 22.  Historically Canada gets shafted on the last wave or two of every line since POTF2 so a big gap could prove beneficial in getting the last product to us.  Of course that could backfire with retailers deciding nothing is selling as Endboo sits and sits on the pegs. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on November 18, 2006, 04:55 AM
I'm geeked on the past Jedi Fighters getting re-issued...  I know that's a sore spot, but those really went fast around me so I'm looking forward to getting at least one of them...  A local bud has the other for me.

I think a lot missed out on those though, not just me, so rather than seeing the same obi/ani fighters in red and yellow, it'd be nice to see their later scene fighters re-issued, especially considering they were in them just as much it seemed and we have Obi's astromech for that fighter.

I think this was a great Q&A round overall but there's the normal stuff mixed into it that's easy to make fun of...  Especially how they answer the usual "I know more about your job than you do, so tell me why you suck" questions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on November 18, 2006, 09:49 AM
I laughed when I read about the electronics issue, and "what we can afford"...  Excuse me?  (one of the) world's largest toy companies?  I just love it when this toy manufacturing giant tells its most loyal customers that it's going to cut corners because they can't afford it and it's for the kids ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on November 18, 2006, 10:28 AM
New hope has be to me with this questiona nd answer:

"With the Max Rebo Band being potentially revisited in the near future, is there a movement toward "finishing" the band? (Meaning Umpass Stay, Ak-Rev and maybe Gargan?) Also, are we ever likely to get Tech Mo'r from the Cantina Band updated with an instrument that he can sit at whilst playing? (GH, 11/17/06)

At least one of those figures is slated for next year in the main assortment. The rest will have to bide their time patiently waiting for their turn on stage, confident in the knowledge that we hear the music, too. We hear the music…"

Oh please let it be Yarna please let it be Yarna!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sprry75 on November 19, 2006, 02:33 PM
The Worst Question of the Week is a good idea, but a little unfair.  It will invariably be the fortieth incarnation of some fuckass Action Fleet question *cough* SSG *cough* or some dip**** "We're so cool" Sandtroopers question.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 20, 2006, 12:33 PM
The Worst Question of the Week is a good idea, but a little unfair.  It will invariably be the fortieth incarnation of some fuckass Action Fleet question *cough* SSG *cough* or some dip**** "We're so cool" Sandtroopers question.

(http://images.dvdtalk.com/images/smilies/sad.gif)

You're right--the WQotWA* was indeed going to go to SSG for the second-straight week for their asking of yet another question about the long-dead-at-retail Action Fleet and Micro Machines lines.  But I guess I'll take this opportunity to not be as repetitive as they've been, and give the honor to someone else instead:

The Worst Question of the Week Award!

Quote
I love the Galactic Heroes line and would love to see them in a larger scale. Any chance we would see them in a 4" or 6" scale? (YN, 11/17/06)

We haven't considered that, preferring to keep our product development focused on the main scale.

Look, I love the Galactic Heroes as much as anyone else, but is there really a desire out there to see bigger versions of them?  They'd lose all their charm.







*WTWaW?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on November 20, 2006, 05:22 PM
That is one of the most retarded things I have heard.  If you make the damn things bigger then they will look stupid.  I swear this is why Hasbro messes with us, b/c weekly we prove to be collective morons that collect toys.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on November 21, 2006, 02:45 AM
I don't know that it's THAT bad of a question when you think it through.  Hasbro might be able to use a scaled up Galactic Heroes line to legitimately compete with the Sideshow superdeformed figures.  But somehow Hasbro would blow it and not be able to cash in on the kitsch factor that the Sideshow SD figures have, and it would probably wind up more like the silly Galactic Mpire figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on November 21, 2006, 08:54 AM
I don't know that it's THAT bad of a question when you think it through.  Hasbro might be able to use a scaled up Galactic Heroes line to legitimately compete with the Sideshow superdeformed figures.  But somehow Hasbro would blow it and not be able to cash in on the kitsch factor that the Sideshow SD figures have, and it would probably wind up more like the silly Galactic Mpire figures.
The superdeformed figures are made by Medicom, Sideshow just imports them
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 21, 2006, 11:32 AM
I don't know that it's THAT bad of a question when you think it through.

It wasn't that bad of a question, but Sprry75 shot my SSG wad for me, so I had to go with something else. 

This'll probably sound really gay, and I don't know how it would work, but if they ever decided to "blow up" the GH figures, I think some plush versions might be kind of cool.  It probably wouldn't be all that great for the human characters, but some big plush versions of the small and/or furry characters would be a hoot.  Yoda, Chewie, Wicket, a Jawa, maybe Artoo. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on November 21, 2006, 04:28 PM
I have a blow up Padme, she is great! :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on November 21, 2006, 05:06 PM
(http://www.lifestyleslive.com/images/Ed_Photo.jpg)

HI-OHHHH!!!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on November 21, 2006, 07:52 PM
I don't know that it's THAT bad of a question when you think it through.

It wasn't that bad of a question, but Sprry75 shot my SSG wad for me, so I had to go with something else. 


What, there wasn't anything at Dumbtroo.. I mean Sandtroopers to make fun of this week?  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 2, 2006, 03:02 AM
I hereby defend JD's question on the Gellagrub. :)  That Q went in before the BP images surfaced so we don't deserve the worst question of the week award, plus it garnered Hasbro's response that the grub isn't on their priority list at the moment.  Bummer on that.

That said...  Lots of playset and 7" unleashed questions this week...  who'd have thought that? ::)

Kudos to Scum getting in a question that basically asked what questions they're sick of answering or hearing asked.  That was funny just to read it posed to them.  Then to read in Matt's wrap-up all the questions that clearly were what Hasbro was talking about.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on December 2, 2006, 10:46 AM
Yeah, JJ, I thought that was a pretty intuitive question for Scum to ask.  It's too bad that whoever is answering these still doesn't have a clue about store pegs and the popularity or lack thereof of the kids lines ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on December 2, 2006, 11:34 AM
I think they know but just do not want to admit it to everybody.  Or like it's been said before the stores bought the supply so it's all good for them at the moment. 

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on December 8, 2006, 05:08 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 12/1 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1165615405,87807,)...

- Can we pleeeeease get an Eopie re-release?
- X-Wing Video Game Titaniums?
- Are we making a difference in your lives?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on December 8, 2006, 08:25 PM
I thought specific Q's about beasts were not allowed by our staff because Hasbro was getting too many beast related Q's? Oh and look, there goes yet another one on the Hasbro QandA thread. I see--

The other 2 Q's are nice--I'm actually impressed with Hasbro's answers lately and am less critical of them because of it.

Since the Titanium Question and Beast Question are "questions of a specific nature" has it been decided by Jedidefender that those get forwarded now?

Since Hasbro answered them did they change their stance on it too?

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 11, 2006, 02:00 PM
It's time for the latest installment of the:

Worst Question of the Week Award!

Only there's not gonna be a Worst Question of the Week Award anymore.  I've decided that something such as a "Worst Question Award" projects a way-more negative vibe, in this season of peace on Earth and goodwill toward men, than I'm interested in, so no more WQotWA.  Sorry.

However, there's still a need to point out the, shall we say, more-wanting questions that are still being asked, week-in and week-out, so I give you. . .

The Best Question of the Week (with a dose of heavily-implied sarcasm) Award!

Are there any special plans to keep this line alive and well after the 30th Anniversary celebrations are done next year? (ST, 12/08/06)* (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=5183.msg92496#msg92496)

You bet!

---

Good question, Sandtroopers!  We had been considering packing it in after next year, but then your question came along, and we thought "hey, maybe this whole 'Star Wars action figures' thing has legs after all."  So we decided to keep the line going, at least for the time being.  So thank you, Sandtroopers, for saving the line!  Your inquisitive nature has proven to be a beacon of enlightenment throughout the Star Wars collecting community.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on December 11, 2006, 03:15 PM
That IS the best question of the week.  I think that particular site might run away with the whole Question Superbowl.....

Some disturbing revelations was that Hasbro now considers "Star Wars Transformers" as a "CORE" line...right along side Galactic Heroes and 3 3/4in figures...with Unleashed "Mini's" being the 4th in the Quartet of Star Wars Goodness.....

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on December 15, 2006, 02:46 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 12/8 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1166211744,25883,)...

- Who are those Endor Rebels?
- Gray DS Trooper in 2007?
- Any Poncho for Concept Fett?

And, a note:  Due to the upcoming Holidays, Hasbro will be taking a Q&A break. Look for the Weekly Q&A to resume on January 12th!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 15, 2006, 02:53 PM
We're just a couple of sites in at this point, and I can already tell that I'm gonna have a hell of a hard time choosing the BQotW(wadoh-is)A after it's all said and done. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 16, 2006, 11:32 PM
We're just a couple of sites in at this point, and I can already tell that I'm gonna have a hell of a hard time choosing the BQotW(wadoh-is)A after it's all said and done. . .

I'm betting you and I are on the same page with one question in particular...  I couldn't believe it was posted when I read it.  I knew the answer before I finished the question.  It really beat a dead horse.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on December 17, 2006, 11:44 AM
The playset question?  I can't believe someone had the balls to ask that again...and then go on and on about how other companies do it so it must be right.

 ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 17, 2006, 01:10 PM
It was another week where some interesting stuff was revealed or hinted at, at least, but then there's some just routine badness every week too anymore...  I'm all about sticking it to Hasbro when they deserve it, but at this point I think certain things have been explained sufficiently as to why they don't do them and there's no sense wasting a question on it weekly.

Unleashed are a similar bird...  Why ask at this point?  They said they're expensive to tool and risky investments at that, so that's that...  Makes sense.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on December 17, 2006, 03:16 PM
I'm all about sticking it to Hasbro when they deserve it, but at this point I think certain things have been explained sufficiently as to why they don't do them and there's no sense wasting a question on it weekly.

I'm right there with you, Jesse.  God knows I spend a great deal of time (on these very forums) taking the piss out of Hasbro, but the lack of reading comprehension with so many repeat questions week after week continues to baffle me.  You might not agree with the answers Hasbro gives, but if they've stated (and you'll have to correct me on this ballpark figure, Matt) 12 times that they have no plans to do playsets, no interest in doing playsets, and that retail isn't buying into playsets, why keep asking?  At this point, it's less to do with beating the dead horse than it is ripping it open with a machete and playing with the entrails while singing showtunes in a muumuu.

I love the 7" Unleashed line as much as anyone, and I wish that it would have continued, but Hasbro has, for reasons legitimate or not, decided they aren't interested in it as an ongoing thing.  I have accepted that fact and I have moved on, as have many others.  The "WE NEED PLAYSETS HASBRO IS DUMB" crowd needs to do the same.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 17, 2006, 08:21 PM
You guys are stealing all my thunder!

The Best Question of the Week (with a dose of heavily-implied sarcasm) Award!

I know the Q&A has had a lot of new vehicle and playset questions and you have told us why you don't make them, but fans are not convinced by these reasons because, they walk down the toy aisles seeing other large toy companies and small companies (who have less funding and resources than Hasbro, make new molds without the issues Hasbro has with making new molds) filling the shelves with new vehicles and playsets for their toy lines, which the retailers obviously don't mind selling in their shops and are being bought; many items could be listed in one store alone. GI Joe being an example of the outcome of this. I would of thought as a toy maker, Hasbro would want to constantly put out new product not just new packaging to keep it fresh, to be Innovative and up to date in your chosen business. For example Hasbro has said no to build-a-figure suggestions, but the next Buffy wave of figures will have it so it must be a good idea. This is the point most fans don’t get Hasbro turned it down; though the company will experiment with items like Choppers and Playskool etc.

As well as fans, Kids want new Vehicles and Playsets to put their favourite figures in, as we all did when we were kids. Collectors will only buy so many Jedi Starfighter repaints before they've had enough and most kids will only want one of each different vehicle, again as we all did when we were young, because we wanted new ships not the same we already had but in a different colour.

Sorry if this sounds more like a rant than a question, but this is the frustration many fans have, we feel let down compared to other fans and kids. You have given us some great figures and battle packs but what about the rest? My question boils down to how come you give reasons, saying you can't do something or you say retailers have an issue with shelf space, when other Toy companies are doing it and retailers are stocking it?
(YF, 12/15/06) (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=1169)

Just because other companies are doing something does not mean it is a successful business model, or that even if it successful for them does not mean that it would be successful for Hasbro or for Star Wars to pursue. We cannot speak for other Hasbro brands, because they have different strategic objectives and make a decision to allocate their resources against the objectives that are going to be important for them to gain momentum with kids. However, we are committed to making new vehicles and that has been well-discussed, as vehicles are an important part of the play pattern. The development of playsets in an inordinately expensive, time-consuming and resource intensive endeavor that has not proven, in Star Wars, to be worth the investment. It literally means that we would be doing less of other things like figures or vehicles, and we do not think that this tradeoff is worth it.

----

"Hasbro, we know how to run your business better than you do, and we know that making playsets is like making a license to print money, and we know that your entire business philosophy actually revolves around us (even though you've repeatedly said it doesn't), and although we know that this question has been asked (and answered) multiple times throughout the Q & A sessions, we're gonna ask it again anyway, because we're naive enough to think that if we ask it just one more time, that maybe you'll snap out of your non-playset-making coma, and fulfill all of our wildest playset fantasies, no matter how many times you've said that they're bad for your business, because the pirate ship from the pirate movie is selling really great at my K-Mart down the street, and surely something like a $50 "gray hallway with sliding door" playset from a thirty-year-old movie would sell just as well in today's market, so we know that you're actually just lying to us, because you know that you'd make a ton of money with such a playset, but you won't make any because you just like being mean to us collectors more than you like making a profit on something."
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on December 17, 2006, 11:21 PM
There's a bitchfest/jerk-off-over-playsets-fest over at the Yakface Forums (http://cgi.denpetersen.com/YAK1/viewtopic.php?t=1169&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0), and I'm trying to convince them to stop beating the dead horse and accepting the fact that Hasbro doesn't want to make playsets and that nobody wants to buy them.

Then I get great replies like this:

Quote
That is a little defeatists!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on December 18, 2006, 12:11 AM
Do people not have any idea how basic economics in this world works?

Profit Margin= (Price Sold to Retailers - Costs/Revenue)

#1 Retail has a huge say in how much peg/shelf space you are going to have
#2 The costs to make any new thing is huge...damn huge.  Ships, figures, playsets, unleashed, choppers etc etc etc
#3 Every company that sells stuff on the face of the earth does so with a profit margin in mind on its products.  If its under x% we don't make it and if its over x% we do
#4 Do you think a multibillion dollar company like Hasbro doesn't have this raw data?  Doesn't know exactly how many greatest hits and battles figures they've sold to Joe Completist and knows what their costs are to make an item. 
#5 Hasbro paid out the NOSE for the right to make Star Wars **** and that **** is a fixed X per item, it is exactly why other companies can make playsets and vehicles and Hasbro can not.
#6 Retail also needs to maintain a healthy profit margin over and above what Hasbro sells it to them for...with the added costs of new tooling and the above mentioned license fee, we're probably talking $50-$100 per little box of love.  I go to quite a few toy stores around here, I don't see many $50 items on the shelf.


Its asinine that this **** keeps coming up over and over.  Unless and retailer specifically asks for these things no matter what the cost, they are not going to happen.  In the end they have to sell said **** as well.  Do you think Casual Kid or Soccer Mommy is going to pick up a scaled and accurate Star Destroyer Bridge playset for $100?  No ******* way.  I probably would but I make up only a small portion of the buying public.  Well chosen this week Matty B, I realize it was probably a tough call though

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 18, 2006, 12:30 AM
Do people not have any idea how basic economics in this world works?

From the above-linked Yakface thread:

Quote
What I would idealy like for a playset is for the custom work that the customizer that did the star destroyer bridge (pictured in this thread) and death star levels, done by the same customizer, but packed up and shiped to hasbro for them to make a master mold to produce on a mass scale.

Think I'm gonna vote "no."

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Dan on December 18, 2006, 08:15 AM
Look, this site continues to carry the torch for a figure that defines obscure and uninteresting. And I signed the petition, because I'll support some fans getting something they want, even if it isn't something I am very interested in myself. It's part of supporting the community we have created.

I continue to kick the playset horse myself in some of these threads. I would like to see some products to showcase the thousands of figures I have bought in the last 10 years. I don't care much for play features, but some well made backdrops for my characters would be very welcome. They don't need to be huge or complicated, something like the backdrops they have been inserting into the ship boxes with windows (dagobah x wing, snowspeeder).

This is not 1977. These items do not have to be carried in a catalog, shipped to thousands of retail stores, and advertised on television. Hasbro has a sales website capable of carrying something like this, or it could be a shared internet exclusive like some of the multipacks. I think there are creative ways to look at making something to see how it does.

I just think the tone of this thread is not something the mods should be supporting. It is bashing- pure and simple. The message is clear, anyone asking for playsets or something like it is an idiot. But don't forget to sign the ICMG petition on your way out the door.

It's a hobby of toys- smearing someone elses ideas does not make you smarter or better then them. There is no right way to collect, and no wrong way either.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Gatillo on December 18, 2006, 08:56 AM
Agreed.  To be honest I would like some playsets too.  It is not about action feature, lights or sounds but just about adding something to a diorama or just having one period.

But Hasbro has said it a million times that playsets are not in their plan so the question is not needed.

Plus that whole send Yak a mold idea is weak at best.  Hasbro is not here for us but for them.  They may throw us a bone here and there but do not get any ideas about our influence over them.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on December 18, 2006, 11:51 AM
Do people not have any idea how basic economics in this world works?

Profit Margin= (Price Sold to Retailers - Costs/Revenue)

#5 Hasbro paid out the NOSE for the right to make Star Wars **** and that **** is a fixed X per item, it is exactly why other companies can make playsets and vehicles and Hasbro can not.


This is the one thing that Hasbro is dealing with that I think they're afraid to mention in the Q&A's.  They paid hundreds of millions of dollars along with selling off 10% of Hasbro to GL to get the Star Wars license.  The cost that those business deals have incurred is why Star Wars can't have the vehicles that GI Joe or other toy lines are capable of having (Hasbro owns GI Joe as an intellectual property and doesn't have to pay the licensing).  Perhaps we should redirect these sorts of questions to the appropriate people like Jim Ward of Lucas Licensing?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 18, 2006, 12:00 PM
The thing that gets me more than anything about lousy questions being asked is not the fact that the question was asked, but that the question was picked from a pool of questions to be asked in the first place.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 18, 2006, 12:39 PM
Look, this site continues to carry the torch for a figure that defines obscure and uninteresting. And I signed the petition, because I'll support some fans getting something they want, even if it isn't something I am very interested in myself. It's part of supporting the community we have created.

The difference between Willrow and playset questions is that Willrow's been asked about a handful of times, and playsets have been asked about literally dozens of times.  On top of that, there's somewhat of a glimmer of hope that Willrow will see the light of day sometime in the next couple of years, whereas playsets have continuously gotten shot down, time and time again.  Hell, the last time the site in question asked about playsets, they got a very candid (and hilarious) "we think we've discussed playsets to death" response, but they still went on to ask another repetitive playsets question, which received another repetitive playsets answer.

Quote
I continue to kick the playset horse myself in some of these threads. I would like to see some products to showcase the thousands of figures I have bought in the last 10 years. I don't care much for play features, but some well made backdrops for my characters would be very welcome. They don't need to be huge or complicated, something like the backdrops they have been inserting into the ship boxes with windows (dagobah x wing, snowspeeder).

Just 'cause I think a particular question is horrible doesn't mean that I'm against whatever the subject of the question was.  Believe it or not, I'd like more playsets and new vehicles, too, and I agree that they've gotten the shaft in the modern line.  But I'm sick of reading these tired questions about them, so I can only imagine how tired Hasbro is of having to answer them.  Regardless of what you think of those answers, Hasbro is performing a nice service to the collecting community with these Q & As, and if all you can muster up is a question that's seemingly been asked (and answered) every other week, then it's probably time to do something else.  Think of some better questions, or if you can't do that, don't submit those questions at all.  Take a break until you can brainstorm up some better ones.  One good question is better than three garbage questions, any day of the week.

Quote
I just think the tone of this thread is not something the mods should be supporting. It is bashing- pure and simple. The message is clear, anyone asking for playsets or something like it is an idiot. But don't forget to sign the ICMG petition on your way out the door.

It's a hobby of toys- smearing someone elses ideas does not make you smarter or better then them. There is no right way to collect, and no wrong way either.

It is a little negative, which is why I changed the verbiage a few weeks ago.  If the mods still deem it bad for the site, I'll be happy to stop doing it--at least in an official capacity, anyway.  But yeah, as long as dumbass questions keep being asked, then I'll keep pointing them out, in some way, shape, or form.

And I will point out that any "bashing" that's been done has been focused more on the question itself, less on the site that asked it, and not at all on the individual who asked it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sprry75 on December 18, 2006, 10:20 PM
Quote
I know the Q&A has had a lot of new vehicle and playset questions and you have told us why you don't make them, but fans are not convinced by these reasons because, they walk down the toy aisles seeing other large toy companies and small companies (who have less funding and resources than Hasbro, make new molds without the issues Hasbro has with making new molds) filling the shelves with new vehicles and playsets for their toy lines, which the retailers obviously don't mind selling in their shops and are being bought; many items could be listed in one store alone. GI Joe being an example of the outcome of this. I would of thought as a toy maker, Hasbro would want to constantly put out new product not just new packaging to keep it fresh, to be Innovative and up to date in your chosen business. For example Hasbro has said no to build-a-figure suggestions, but the next Buffy wave of figures will have it so it must be a good idea. This is the point most fans don’t get Hasbro turned it down; though the company will experiment with items like Choppers and Playskool etc.

As well as fans, Kids want new Vehicles and Playsets to put their favourite figures in, as we all did when we were kids. Collectors will only buy so many Jedi Starfighter repaints before they've had enough and most kids will only want one of each different vehicle, again as we all did when we were young, because we wanted new ships not the same we already had but in a different colour.

Sorry if this sounds more like a rant than a question, but this is the frustration many fans have, we feel let down compared to other fans and kids. You have given us some great figures and battle packs but what about the rest? My question boils down to how come you give reasons, saying you can't do something or you say retailers have an issue with shelf space, when other Toy companies are doing it and retailers are stocking it? (YF, 12/15/06)

Bwah-hah-hah!

What a retarded, dickheaded question.  Not just because it beats the living **** out of a dead, dead, dead horse; and not simply because of its brilliant logic ("the next Buffy wave of figures will have it so it must be a good idea"); but because it has to be the most egregious collection of poorly worded sentences in the history of the internet.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 19, 2006, 05:01 PM
Quote
The message is clear, anyone asking for playsets or something like it is an idiot. But don't forget to sign the ICMG petition on your way out the door.

Bob, don't get me wrong on this and I see your point in a way...  However I completely agree with Matt about the differences in a figure and a playset...  Figure tooling and playset tooling aren't even in the same design teams at Hasbro.  Figures aren't considered "risky" since they can offset them usually via other means (repacks, repaints, etc., etc.), and even dull figures DO seem to sell at some point...  You can slip a less than interesting character in as a fan wank, into a case of army builders, main characters and whatnot, and that cost incurred is diminished on the duller character.  Case-in-point is Lushros Dofine or his ilk...  Hasbro have said these figures usually get a lower production run, but at the same time they're able to be made because other figures are going to make up that slack...  Be it a clone, a stormtrooper, random army builder or what have you.

A playset doesn't have that...  plain and simple. 

Believe me I'm all for people getting what they want.  I for one would love to-scale ships ALL the time, and I'm sure most everyone here (that know me anyway) knows that about me...  I also have the common sense to realize a scale AT-AT isn't going to happen and I'd even be shocked if we got a new sculpt at all on that vehicle.  Or insert any other vehicle you want in there...  An AT-TE could happen if TE's play a major role in a TV series...  What are the odds ont hat happening though, honestly? 

Same with playsets...  The only chances we've been given by Hasbro are if it's prominent in the series, and even then I doubt it happens.  A new playset/ship has to meet a certain price ranger for it to have the diminished risk, plus it has to be appealing on top of that, and Hasbro's said again and again that playsets and larger scaled vehicles are not in the cards for the most part... 

Wilrow though, supposedly is...  So there's a big difference.  It's comparing apples and oranges really.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jayson on December 19, 2006, 07:09 PM
"Hasbro, we know how to run your business better than you do, and we know that making playsets is like making a license to print money, and we know that your entire business philosophy actually revolves around us (even though you've repeatedly said it doesn't), and although we know that this question has been asked (and answered) multiple times throughout the Q & A sessions, we're gonna ask it again anyway, because we're naive enough to think that if we ask it just one more time, that maybe you'll snap out of your non-playset-making coma, and fulfill all of our wildest playset fantasies, no matter how many times you've said that they're bad for your business, because the pirate ship from the pirate movie is selling really great at my K-Mart down the street, and surely something like a $50 "gray hallway with sliding door" playset from a thirty-year-old movie would sell just as well in today's market, so we know that you're actually just lying to us, because you know that you'd make a ton of money with such a playset, but you won't make any because you just like being mean to us collectors more than you like making a profit on something."

Wow.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on December 19, 2006, 08:38 PM
I see that Playmates/Simpsons and Zizzle/POTC are brought up at Yak...

Hasbro originally paid $600 million dollars to Lucasland for the rights to produce toys...I can guarantee Playmates or Zizzle did not pay anywhere near even $100 million for the rights to make toys.  As Nick pointed out, that is a huge reason why stuff is not getting made (see new Unleashed, 12" figures etc)  Things like Choppers and Transformers are cross promotional across all Hasbro lines, Transformer and SW Attacktix, Star Wars Transformers, Marvel Galactic Heroes etc are all part of a grand Hasbro scheme to dominate the toy shelves.  Large Boxed dioramas with low profit margins due to high license, tooling and plastic costs just do not make business sense.  Its pretty black and white to me and has been stated as such by Hasbro ad naseum.  Plus the track record of playsets at retail is pretty horrible.  The Queen's Starship, the Arena and the Mustafar Volcano all saw clearance...the Carbon Freeze Chamber didn't even get to retail because nobody wanted it and then was clearanced out on line as well.

Me, I'd love a Attackus style Millenium Falcon or Dagobah playset made of plastic in the $20-$50 range but I'm not going to hold my breath

RE Willrow Hood, I think Matt and Jesse stated it perfectly...I do agree with you though Dan that people shouldn't be belittling what other people want, although I would agree that badgering and continually asking over and over again when its already been stated several times in the last 6 months is going a little bit overboard

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on December 19, 2006, 09:56 PM
I see that Playmates/Simpsons and Zizzle/POTC are brought up at Yak....

I saw the CEO of Zizzle on The Big Idea with Donnie Deutsch on CNBC last night.  As you mentioned they have the POTC license.  Prior to them getting that license they had only ONE product on the market.  It's been profitable, but Zizzle is still very much in the startup phase and is depending on POTC to succeed in a big way.  Their CEO has a good history in the toy business, but the POTC license is still a gamble for them.  They no doubt have a direct percentage of their sales going back to Disney to pay for this license, or have some major financing set up to do so.  But there should be no doubt that POTC could make or break Zizzle financially in the blink of an eye.

But if you look at Zizzle and their product line, they don't have a lot of big ticket items on the shelves.  And they also *NEED* to have a pirate ship as part of their line.  It's inherent to the story to have a pirate ship.  There also aren't a lot of other vehicles in the line, so that's going to bring their tooling costs down.

Hasbro originally paid $600 million dollars to Lucasland for the rights to produce toys...I can guarantee Playmates or Zizzle did not pay anywhere near even $100 million for the rights to make toys.  As Nick pointed out, that is a huge reason why stuff is not getting made (see new Unleashed, 12" figures etc)  Things like Choppers and Transformers are cross promotional across all Hasbro lines, Transformer and SW Attacktix, Star Wars Transformers, Marvel Galactic Heroes etc are all part of a grand Hasbro scheme to dominate the toy shelves.  Large Boxed dioramas with low profit margins due to high license, tooling and plastic costs just do not make business sense.  Its pretty black and white to me and has been stated as such by Hasbro ad naseum.  Plus the track record of playsets at retail is pretty horrible.  The Queen's Starship, the Arena and the Mustafar Volcano all saw clearance...the Carbon Freeze Chamber didn't even get to retail because nobody wanted it and then was clearanced out on line as well.

I think that those of us who have some understanding of the business end of the toy industry are probably going to be more accepting of these facts.  But I think that even if Hasbro were to communicate these facts to the fan sites via the Q&A's, there is still going to be this group that is outraged at the situation and will continue to complain.  I don't think it's a knock on fans or collectors, but on people who will continue to disregard the facts on any range of issues because they don't look into the facts at hand.  And it is that ignorance that is continuing to drive this line of questioning in Hasbro's Q&A's. 

I can only imagine the level of frustration at Hasbro regarding this topic.  How many times can they answer the same question?  And while we know from the press clippings that Hasbro paid over half a billion dollars to Lucasfilm for the license, it's not a good PR move on Hasbro's part to outwardly say "We paid over half a billion dollars for the Star Wars license.  As a result we have to maximize the profitability in the line, and that means we have to cut some items that have been loss leaders.  Unfortunately that means playsets.  Sorry."

Me, I'd love a Attackus style Millenium Falcon or Dagobah playset made of plastic in the $20-$50 range but I'm not going to hold my breath

Same here.  I think those pieces look fantastic, but they remain out of my price range.  However I think it's entirely possible for some ingenious collectors/customizers to get take Attakus' cue and find some materials that are similar to what's in the Attakus set and get to work.  I think some kind of grey and/or black linoleum of some kind might make a good source of material for your own Death Star display.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 19, 2006, 10:11 PM
Wow.

I know, right?

That's the same thing I said when I read yet another whiny "why won't you guys make any more playsets" question:

"Wow."
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 19, 2006, 10:13 PM
Personally I don't mean to really bust anyone's bubble via this thread either.  I have my own quirks in this hobby that get my dander up...  Hell imagine how I feel about articulation even.  Hasbro's not actually given an answer on that question that says, "it's risky and cost-prohibitive to make all figures SA".  Quite the contrary, Hasbro's actually said they simply won't add additional articulation to figures they feel don't need it...  I've taken that to mean it's just a corner they cut where they feel they can.

Dumb as I think it sounds, because to me it shows an inferior quality in the product offered, Hasbro have simply said they won't do SA across the board because they don't want to...  No real major cost issues involved and whatnot that dominated their decision, no major aesthetic issues...  Simply their choice.

The playset thing though...  They've given actual cost reasons, every time.  They're too risky, too costly, take up too much shelf space, etc., etc., etc...  They've beat the topic to death equally in return to it being asked semi-routinely in Q&A.

I feel the same about Unleashed though...  I know there's some guys who LOVE the 7" line and want new figures.  I wish those guys the best that they could have new figures, but the fact is Hasbro said they're abnormally expensive toolings and costly production pieces that have done traditionally poor at retail despite the claims of collectors (a key thing to remember here of course).

I know everyone says, "I'd buy it!  Regardless of price!", and I'm sure some would, but I haven't a doubt in my mind that the truly vast majority would not put their money where their mouth is...  

And while I agree that Matt's quote sounds harsh in it's wording, I think it also rings a little true to it as well Jay...  Telling Hasbro time and again in the Q&A that Joe Collector knows more than the guy with the sales sheets at Hasbro really does sound condescending and this last question even had a tinge of lecturing in it...  

I'd love a cool stackable playset myself, to the point I've worked on my own at times, and I think I'd pay a good price for one I felt was worth the price...  But at the same time, I completely believe Hasbro's reasoning on WHY they aren't doing it.  There's proof throughout the line, and not all the dismal financial failures have been "crap" that isn't what the collectors wanted...  Some of it's been pretty good stuff, and it still sat and saw price reductions.  Hasbro's got the reasoning why not to do it I'm afraid and I can't disagree...  Collectors DON'T put their money where their mouths are, and that alone makes them less than reliable on everything they feel will sell.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on December 19, 2006, 10:27 PM
Dumb as I think it sounds, because to me it shows an inferior quality in the product offered, Hasbro have simply said they won't do SA across the board because they don't want to...  No real major cost issues involved and whatnot that dominated their decision, no major aesthetic issues...  Simply their choice.

Actually I think they have addressed this sufficiently.  They've said that a higher level of articulation leads to increased tooling.  That in turn leads to a higher cost.  Figure costs get averaged across the line, and bringing up costs across the whole line would probably lead to a price hike.

And with the figures that they tend to give minimal articulation I have seen them cite the aesthetic of the figure and whether or not increased articulation is character appropriate.  If it wasn't in the online Q&A's, then it has certainly been at shows where Hasbro has been exhibiting.  Certainly a Padme figure in some ornate gown isn't going to be very action oriented by virtue of the scenes that the costumes were derived from.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Oboewan on December 20, 2006, 11:25 AM
I feel the same about Unleashed though...  I know there's some guys who LOVE the 7" line and want new figures.  I wish those guys the best that they could have new figures, but the fact is Hasbro said they're abnormally expensive toolings and costly production pieces that have done traditionally poor at retail despite the claims of collectors (a key thing to remember here of course).
that alone makes them less than reliable on everything they feel will sell.

As one of those 7"Unleashed guys, I kind of feel that Hasbro killed that line all on their own with the Force Battlers... I remember a number of times when I'd be in the store looking for Unleashed and see a kid look at the unleashed and say "I want this one mommy" only to be told "but THIS one has battle features" and after a bit of talking to her son, they end up getting the Force Battler (I have an even worse opinion about them than the SW transformers).   While I'd love some "new" unleashed figures, I'm won't be too bumbed with repacks even though I have all the originals.  Why?   1. The new Sideshow 12" line will feed my "larger figure" needs and 2.  I don't collect with intent to resell or stash for retirement.  If they redo some of the Unleashed I paid secondary market prices for, it's not going to bother me that my loose stormtrooper I already have won't sell for as much as it would otherwise.  It'll be 18-20 bucks I can spend elsewhere.

As for playsets,  I haven't been to enthralled with the few playsets Hasbro has given is "the modern era" in the first place- I'd rather they spend time and money on improving the 3 3/4 figures and vehicles instead.   

Oboewan

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 21, 2006, 12:22 AM
They've addressed articulation to an extent, and the Q&A online sure has been a lot more clear and concise than Hasbro ever was in the past, but at the same time their answers have contradicted themselves in the past and present between the Q&A online and at conventions and other avenues of contact with collectors, so that alone leaves me skeptical...  That plus we've seen their own actions with the line contradict their explanations of cost and balance issues by making figures vastly more complex when many times it seems overkill or unnecessary, or what have you...  That's not my point in this discussion though.  I think there is some explanation there though from Hasbro, I agree, I just partially disagree with their logic in many instances while I also see some contradictions.  For instance at one time the style of articulation was cited as a cost issue...  then that was backtracked upon by them in a Q&A and it was cited as an issue of construction costs due to the # of parts, etc.

And I think that same concept I'm getting at with the issue of articulation applies to other questions too...  Hasbro do seemingly say one thing while do another at times...  And I'm sure there's some skepticism too and I feel for that collector who wants to ask the same thing again and again, but at this point it's not worth it...  It's why we don't ask the articulation question here, again and again and again...   Or the playset question, or the Unleashed question, or the ICMG question, or whatever...  It's not always what you want to hear, and sometimes you can point out good (or bad) points that are quite contrary to Hasbro's data or opinions, but when you know what their answer will be it's just not worth asking it again.

I do think they've been a little more thorough on the issue of articulation than in the past though for sure...  Enough that I'm content.  I think though that with the direction the line's taken that articulation is something Hasbro can improve upon since they're definitely making and pushing out the door a lot of product that the margins are MUCH improved on for them...  And thus a boost for the line in quality (hopefully).  Seems to be the way it might be going, but then again I thought the same thing a little over a year ago and that turned around on me so, oh well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on December 21, 2006, 06:54 AM
I want a decent playset as much as the next guy, but for the issue is HASBRO has pretty much said "Stop asking this question"....

The reason that question wins in my opinion is because the person asking the question within the body of the question, admits that Hasbro has answered the question, basically tells Hasbro they know more about the toy business than they do, and goes about it with a sense of entitlement.   The only thing that would have made that question a lock for the Super Bowl of questions is that it left out, Action Fleet, Tonnika Sisters, Unleashed (7 inch) and Jedi Points.

It just seems that this Q & A thing has a shelf life, so everytime a question is asked a second or third time it is one less decent question we get before Hasbro re-allocates resources.  And I am all about the follow up or asking an old question if new information has surfaced, but until then, I will continue to laugh every Friday when I see questions that were asked in week 1 by one website asked again by another (and no not one site is better than another in this aspect, but I think some try harder to research it out).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on December 21, 2006, 12:30 PM
I think if anything, the responsibility has to fall upon the sites that are submitting the questions.  There has been a lot of redundancy in the Q&A sessions.  And it is the sites that are submitting the questions that are responsible for going through all of the questions in an effort to see what's a valid question and what has already been asked and answered.  Obviously some sites are run with less of a focus on the nature of the questions asked, whereas other sites are progressing through the Q&A sessions, building upon previous responses.  It would certainly be constructive if the webmasters of these sites got together in a chat and coordinated their efforts in the Q&A process, but that's pretty unlikely at this point.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 21, 2006, 04:19 PM
It just seems that this Q & A thing has a shelf life, so every time a question is asked a second or third time it is one less decent question we get before Hasbro re-allocates resources.

I can't believe it's lasted as long as it has--I thought for sure it'd go on for a couple of months before they tired of it, but here we are, half-a-year later, with no signs of slowing down.  And if they can make it to Toy Fair (which they should, with at most five sessions between now and then), then the Q & As could conceivably continue throughout a good chunk of 2007, as the Toy Fair news and the new line showing up should give all the sites plenty of new material to ask about.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 22, 2006, 11:40 AM
It just seems that this Q & A thing has a shelf life, so every time a question is asked a second or third time it is one less decent question we get before Hasbro re-allocates resources.

I can't believe it's lasted as long as it has--I thought for sure it'd go on for a couple of months before they tired of it, but here we are, half-a-year later, with no signs of slowing down.  And if they can make it to Toy Fair (which they should, with at most five sessions between now and then), then the Q & As could conceivably continue throughout a good chunk of 2007, as the Toy Fair news and the new line showing up should give all the sites plenty of new material to ask about.

Thanks, I was wondering the same thing about how long this can go on. But still, even after toyfair, there's only so many variations on the same questions that can be asked.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on December 22, 2006, 08:04 PM
The good thing is the line's routinely changing, updating, etc...  It opens up new avenues for questions.  While it's not always appreciated, sometimes the obscure question asked "just for fun" is the direction to go instead of repeating yourself again and again...  Like Nick said though, that's the responsibility of the staffer(s) handling the Q&A to mix it up, handle the "quality control", and basically not make it a routine... 

I've talked with some staff at other sites about the Q&A actually, and how goes the routine there...  I've ran into a number of consistancies among ours and others, as well as some shared opinions on the Q&A across the net in general...  It's tough, but workable.  I'm still debating how finite the Q&A actually is...  :)

For instance this week's we dug for some stuff on new figures pictured.  Last week I believe it was battlepack stuff we'd just seen, and so on...  Deviating from the basic line at times has helped too, but you gotta know when not to ask about sub-lines that you've seen clear-cut answers to as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on December 23, 2006, 01:31 AM
While it's not always appreciated, sometimes the obscure question asked "just for fun" is the direction to go instead of repeating yourself again and again... 

(snip)

Deviating from the basic line at times has helped too, but you gotta know when not to ask about sub-lines that you've seen clear-cut answers to as well.

(strokes imaginary beard as if in deep thought)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sprry75 on December 23, 2006, 09:46 AM
You stroke your beard when you're deep in thought?  Huh.  Weird.  I'll hafta try that sometime.

I can't wait until Toyfair; I hope they have a stackable Death Star for the 7" Unleashed scale.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 23, 2006, 10:29 AM


I can't wait until Toyfair; I hope they have a stackable Death Star for the 7" Unleashed scale.

Don't forget the 7" unleashed scale Turbo Tank and the SA Tonika Sisters.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 2, 2007, 08:17 PM
I received a message at Yakface recently regarding this thread stating "you might find this interesting."  Seeing this started with a question that was submitted from Yakface and that I spent about two years here religiously, it's interesting to see what my friends here are saying.  I do find the responses here quite interesting and after reading the last few pages, it's clear that some people don't care for a couple of the questions that have been asked to Hasbro and have decided that the solution is to resort to bad mouthing other fan sites in the community over it.  What's that all about?

If any site sends in a question that has been asked before/asked somewhere else/worded differently/etc. - WHO CARES???  There's no reason to have a heart attack over it.  Believe it or not, sometimes questions are asked again in a different manner to make it clear to Hasbro that these are issues that some collectors DO care about.  And we all know from some of their answers sometimes they reveal nothing with a simple "no" and other times they give a more informative answer giving an explanation for why they approach something they way they do.  You never know what kind of response you are going to get from them.

Regardless, if the same question is asked, why is it that big of a deal?  Why resort to bashing another site over it?  Remember that the members of the other sites are fans too and love this hobby just as much as you do.  If someone thinks the Q&A is that big a deal to go bashing other parts of the community over it, then you're taking the Q&A way too seriously and need to find something more important to get worried about.  The Q&A's are fun to read, but that's about it.  Very little is going to come about from them, no one is going to get a special figure made out of it, figures are not going to magically show up on your doorstep, you're not going to become any smarter by reading what Hasbro feeds you, etc.  You can approach the Q&A any way you want in the questions asked and hope to get more out of them, but the Q&A is little more than a publicity thing for Hasbro.  Simple as that.

Instead of bashing a site or its readers for questions that are being asked, why not instead put your heads together and come up with some original ideas of your own to ask Hasbro, and maybe you will get that burning question that you have answered instead of ripping other sites?  And if you don't have that "burning question" then chill out if someone else DOES have a question. 

CHEWIE haters (and I know who you are  :)), you may commence with bashing ME now in this thread if you like, because I want to see Hasbro make playsets.  I want them to be good playsets.  I want them to be big playsets.   I want to set them up in my Star Wars room.  I want to take pictures of them.  I want to create scenes from the movies.  I want to buy more playsets than I need.  I want to take them apart and put them back together.  I want to customize them.  I want to put a picture of one as my avatar.  I want to set one up in my office at work.   I want to use them in photonovels.  I also want an AT-TE.  I also want a Turbo Tank.  Why do I want these things?  Because I love this hobby and it's FUN.  So is it ok if a Star Wars FAN site ever asks about one of THOSE again, or will people here ridicule them because they didn't "go research every question" that has been asked before?  Wow, the NERVE of fans and fan sites to ask a question that wasn't approved of by everyone here first!

We'll probably never see big playsets like some fans want.  But at least we know we'll see Hasbro try some other things in the future that are definitely gambles - what will be the next "great idea" that Hasbro gets to follow up such "hits" like Star Wars Transformers/Unleashed/Choppers/Attaktix?  We know it probably won't be playsets, but at least playsets are part of the 3-3/4" line, which is the bread and butter of Star Wars.  Heck, they said that large vehicles don't sell either.  But they went ahead and decided to rehash the AT-AT and Imperial Shuttle this year.  Guess what, both sold great!  Maybe Hasbro was WRONG about large vehicles.  Could it possibly mean they have miscalculated the playset market as well???

Anyways, this reponse wasn't directed towards everyone in this thread.  But if you do feel it was directed at you, you may be onto something.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sprry75 on January 2, 2007, 08:56 PM
I don't hate you Chewie, I don't even know you.  But the question is old.  By asking it again, in the way you asked it, you weren't only beating a dead horse, you were doing it in a condescending, I-know-more-about-your-business-than-you-do kind of way. 

I want playsets, too.  I'd pay a hundred bucks for a cool Death Star, or fifty bucks for a cool cantina, or fifty bucks for a cool Jabba's Palace.  But Hasbro says they're not going there.  I get it.  No need to nag them about it, much less pretend that I know better than they do. 

And nobody's having a heart attack about any question, we're just bitching on a web forum.  If it weren't for bitching nerds, the internet would lose most of its purpose.

My bitch, though, is that I think these Hasbro Q&As are cool, and if the questions get annoying (and yours was annoying), then they'll likely say to hell with it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 2, 2007, 09:47 PM
Sprry75, I don't know you either, or have any hard feelings towards you.  But it wasn't my question, and I'm not the one who submits them to Hasbro.   ;)

The playset question that was asked was submitted by a reader.  What I did, was reply to Hasbro's answer, in saying that I'd support more playsets and show some examples of what I'd like to see Hasbro make.  I'd also be fine with them allowing another company to take over the playsets (like what Sideshow did with the 12" line, which I believe they might have addressed in a Q&A sometime in the past).  If they are unwilling to do that, then that looks like they do think there is potential in playsets, which contradicts what they are telling us.

Overall I've been very happy with the Star Wars line and rarely complain.  But sometimes I think they suffer from a lack of creativity and fail to take advantage of the license they have.   

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Angry Ewok on January 2, 2007, 09:53 PM
I received a message at Yakface recently regarding this thread stating "you might find this interesting."  Seeing this started with a question that was submitted from Yakface and that I spent about two years here religiously, it's interesting to see what my friends here are saying.  I do find the responses here quite interesting and after reading the last few pages, it's clear that some people don't care for a couple of the questions that have been asked to Hasbro and have decided that the solution is to resort to bad mouthing other fan sites in the community over it.  What's that all about?

If any site sends in a question that has been asked before/asked somewhere else/worded differently/etc. - WHO CARES???  There's no reason to have a heart attack over it.  Believe it or not, sometimes questions are asked again in a different manner to make it clear to Hasbro that these are issues that some collectors DO care about.  And we all know from some of their answers sometimes they reveal nothing with a simple "no" and other times they give a more informative answer giving an explanation for why they approach something they way they do.  You never know what kind of response you are going to get from them.

Regardless, if the same question is asked, why is it that big of a deal?  Why resort to bashing another site over it?  Remember that the members of the other sites are fans too and love this hobby just as much as you do.  If someone thinks the Q&A is that big a deal to go bashing other parts of the community over it, then you're taking the Q&A way too seriously and need to find something more important to get worried about.  The Q&A's are fun to read, but that's about it.  Very little is going to come about from them, no one is going to get a special figure made out of it, figures are not going to magically show up on your doorstep, you're not going to become any smarter by reading what Hasbro feeds you, etc.  You can approach the Q&A any way you want in the questions asked and hope to get more out of them, but the Q&A is little more than a publicity thing for Hasbro.  Simple as that.

Instead of bashing a site or its readers for questions that are being asked, why not instead put your heads together and come up with some original ideas of your own to ask Hasbro, and maybe you will get that burning question that you have answered instead of ripping other sites?  And if you don't have that "burning question" then chill out if someone else DOES have a question. 

CHEWIE haters (and I know who you are  :)), you may commence with bashing ME now in this thread if you like, because I want to see Hasbro make playsets.  I want them to be good playsets.  I want them to be big playsets.   I want to set them up in my Star Wars room.  I want to take pictures of them.  I want to create scenes from the movies.  I want to buy more playsets than I need.  I want to take them apart and put them back together.  I want to customize them.  I want to put a picture of one as my avatar.  I want to set one up in my office at work.   I want to use them in photonovels.  I also want an AT-TE.  I also want a Turbo Tank.  Why do I want these things?  Because I love this hobby and it's FUN.  So is it ok if a Star Wars FAN site ever asks about one of THOSE again, or will people here ridicule them because they didn't "go research every question" that has been asked before?  Wow, the NERVE of fans and fan sites to ask a question that wasn't approved of by everyone here first!

We'll probably never see big playsets like some fans want.  But at least we know we'll see Hasbro try some other things in the future that are definitely gambles - what will be the next "great idea" that Hasbro gets to follow up such "hits" like Star Wars Transformers/Unleashed/Choppers/Attaktix?  We know it probably won't be playsets, but at least playsets are part of the 3-3/4" line, which is the bread and butter of Star Wars.  Heck, they said that large vehicles don't sell either.  But they went ahead and decided to rehash the AT-AT and Imperial Shuttle this year.  Guess what, both sold great!  Maybe Hasbro was WRONG about large vehicles.  Could it possibly mean they have miscalculated the playset market as well???

Anyways, this reponse wasn't directed towards everyone in this thread.  But if you do feel it was directed at you, you may be onto something.

Lame.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 2, 2007, 10:54 PM
. . .and it appears that my New Year's Resolution to stop being such a butthole on the internet will have lasted approximately 46 hours.

Oh well.  There's always next year.

CHEWIE haters (and I know who you are  :))

Did you seriously just refer to yourself in the third-person?

Who do you think you are?  Slothus?!

(http://images.dvdtalk.com/images/smilies/lol.gif)

More later.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 2, 2007, 10:56 PM
That was actually a very kind response Matt, I think you might have kept your resolution still.  ;D

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 2, 2007, 11:00 PM
That was actually a very kind response Matt, I think you might have kept your resolution still.  ;D

 ;)

Nah.  Like I said, more later.

And if any of your resolutions was "work on my reading comprehension skills," you're already failing miserably.

;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on January 2, 2007, 11:13 PM
Heck, they said that large vehicles don't sell either.  But they went ahead and decided to rehash the AT-AT and Imperial Shuttle this year.  Guess what, both sold great!  Maybe Hasbro was WRONG about large vehicles.  Could it possibly mean they have miscalculated the playset market as well???

Both of those used vintage molds which have already paid for themselves many times over now.  NEW large vehicles (like...gasp...new playsets) are cost prohibitive which is what they said.  This is why the Turbo Tank and AT-TE are probably never going to happen, oh and don't forget the astronomical licensing fees attached to every Star Wars item too (when comparing to other properties etc)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 2, 2007, 11:28 PM
I received a message at Yakface recently regarding this thread stating "you might find this interesting."

Interesting.

Quote
Seeing this started with a question that was submitted from Yakface and that I spent about two years here religiously, it's interesting

Interesting.

Quote
to see what my friends here are saying.  I do find the responses here quite

Let me guess.  Interesting?

Quote
interesting

Interesting!

I was prepared to go into great detail with a response here, but there's too much sanctimonious bull**** to wade through to begin with, so I'll spare everyone (and myself) the time.

So instead, just one question.  I think I've asked this before around here somewhere, but didn't get a response, because there really is no response to it, I guess:

If you ran a company, would you risk taking a huge loss on something just to make a small percentage of your customer base happy?

No, really, would you?

Be honest.












Didn't think so.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 2, 2007, 11:32 PM
Heck, they said that large vehicles don't sell either.  But they went ahead and decided to rehash the AT-AT and Imperial Shuttle this year.  Guess what, both sold great!  Maybe Hasbro was WRONG about large vehicles.  Could it possibly mean they have miscalculated the playset market as well???

Both of those used vintage molds which have already paid for themselves many times over now.  NEW large vehicles (like...gasp...new playsets) are cost prohibitive which is what they said.  This is why the Turbo Tank and AT-TE are probably never going to happen, oh and don't forget the astronomical licensing fees attached to every Star Wars item too (when comparing to other properties etc)

That's very true... I just wonder why they won't try using the old Death Star mold and give it as an exlusive to Target ir something?  With a new paintjob, I think it would be pretty cool.  Maybe it could be priced like the Imperial Shuttle was... around $60.00 with a couple figures packed in (like a VOTC Stormie and a TIE pilot or something) I think they'd do ok.

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: David on January 2, 2007, 11:52 PM
I do too. Hell, Im all for large vehicles and playsets especially new ones. Ive got my Battle Arena set up in front of my mainly MOC collection.
You guys pointed out the AT-AT and Imperial Shuttle, but you forgot about the Republic Gunship repaints. Theyre big and are kinda playset-ish. They did so well I had to pay 70 bucks for mine at a scalper-owned store. And the ARC-170 was at my Target for a couple days last April, and then it was gone forever. It was fairly large.

I think a Death Star playset like you described would be fabulous. I'd certainly buy it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2007, 12:09 AM
Given the great bitch it is to complete a loose Death Star via Ebay (It most certainly can be a pain to try), the age of the set, etc...  I would be surprised if the mold even exists in tact, much less useable, for the vintage Death Star...  Could they re-release that?  If the molds exist and they're in good shape I'm sure they could but I'd question how happy anyone would be with it...  Let's face it, expectations are high and I can see the complaints on that even if it were possible, which I highly doubt it is.

That said, here's my thoughts on this...

Nobody was criticizing Yakface as a site, or its staff, so that's really an exagerration of the truth.  Nothing pertained to the site as much as it was to one question, so there's no bashing going on here of anything but a question that got asked.  So the real offense is probably reserved for the guy who asked it...  Though at the same time I scratch my head why it would've been asked.  I personally would've pointed out the answer(s) from the past on that exact question to the asker and told him/her to step it up in the creativity department if they wanted one to get through, and tone it down on the "Hasbro U R Dumb 4 not listening to us" department.

Quote
Instead of bashing a site or its readers for questions that are being asked, why not instead put your heads together and come up with some original ideas of your own to ask Hasbro, and maybe you will get that burning question that you have answered instead of ripping other sites?

How do you know the people you're citing haven't had their questions asked in the past?  But more than that, like I said it's not a rip-fest on Yakface or any other site at all, and I am a tad annoyed it's trying to be portrayed that way.  It's definitely a rip-fest on that question.  And if that offended the guy that asked it, well that's definitely too bad for him but at the same time I agree with everything people have said against that question...  It was a bad question that has a clearly stated (and repeated) answer, and it really is overkill...  Plus it was a rather snottily worded question at that, which is just pointless on any level.

Next I disagree COMPLETELY that you don't learn anything from the Q&A's with Hasbro...  I'm not ignorant on the in's/out's of the Toy Industry at large or how manufacturer's partner with retail and their relationships and such, but I'd be short-changing the Q&A if I said there wasn't anything I had learned here and there, or if I didn't see clear signs from Hasbro that they ARE taking things said/asked in the Q&A with some interest.  Some questions we've asked in the past got favorable responses as something they maybe weren't thinking of for the line but would look into for the future...  Sometimes you have a good week with Q's, sometimes you have an average week.  It just depends what you get out of them and sometimes it's really good stuff.  

But Hasbro's been quite fair about sharing the how's and why's of their methods and decisions.  Sometimes it doesn't make sense, sometimes it sounds false even or like a cookie-cutter corporate response and it very well may be, but I think there's a lot of positive information to learn about their business and their point of view in the Q&A's and sometimes there's just cool things you didn't know on any given week, or new info on new figures that crops up...  You just never know.  I definitely think higher of the Q&A than it being just a publicity thing for Hasbro though.  It's been more interesting for us collectors than that.  Some weeks it's better than others, for all of us really, but it's definitely been cool.

In closing this, it needs to be clearly understood that this current focus of the discussion is about the Q&A, and in particular it's about a single question right now that got asked for the umpteenth time.  Nothing about Yakface, how they do their site or news, or any of that stuff...  I like Yakface fine as a site and go there sometimes.  This is about the question asked through their site by someone, and that's a whole other ball of wax...  The only one who has a right to have his feelings hurt right now is the guy that asked it, and even then he I'm sure has a thick enough skin to not care if people liked his question or not...  It's part of the Q&A every week at all the sites though, so it's gonna get talked about here, and that's a question that's been criticized BEFORE the last Q&A session though, so ridicule of that question was simply an inevitable product of asking it.

PS:

I want a cool playset like the next guy, and if I ran the show I'd make all vehicles to-scale (and if they were too big I'd either make a portion of them like the head of an AT-AT, or the gun turret of an AT-TE), but I'm also willing to accept the answers Hasbro gave, for the very simplified question Matt asked above me...  If you were a big corporation would you make high-risk, high-priced items that retail was even sketchy on picking up, or would you stick with what clearly works year-in-and-year-out because it is proven and profitable? 

I'd also add, the only big ticket items we've seen that did so well supposedly are exclusives (AT-AT, etc.) this past year...  Shorter production runs and whatnot.  New tooling investments alone would bump the risk up incredibly and I don't expect to see TE's on every retailer's shelf in the near future...  or a giant Death Star, or whatever it is.  Hell the $40 pricepoint didn't even do outstanding in 2005, one of (if not the) best years in SW retailing...  It's still a risk, regardless of what I perceive of the market myself.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2007, 12:21 AM
Jesse, nobody at Yak (including me) thinks that JD was coming down on us for that question.  My post was 100% regarding my personal thoughts regarding the question, and why I still defend the question being asked (though I do admit I wish it had been worded differently).  Even if you disagree, I hope you can respect that.  I think Hasbro is selling us short on playset opportunities.  That can be debated until we're old men (and very well might be!).

Anyways, I'll laugh my ass off if another site asks about playsets next week.  ;D

;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2007, 12:27 AM
They might, and I'd be as critical of the question...

I respect the opinion that anyone wants playsets, but it's asking something you know the answer to that is where the harsh criticism comes into play...  Not the idea that anyone wants more playsets, most of us probably do like Scott and I, but that you know what you're going to be told when you ask it for the 30th time but ask anyway.  What's the point?  It's a bad question with nothing being learned, gained, and I'm sure it's as tiring to answer it as it is for anyone too...  Are questions really pushed back then, deservedly, for a question that has been answered repeatedly?  I don't believe it is.

EDIT:  By the way, I cited the differences in criticizing the question and critizing Yak because you implied that a couple times CHEWIE, and it just wasn't true at all...  To me the question and Yak as a site are two different topics all together and Yak as a site has nothing to do with this.  If there's a criticism at all it's with the question even being asked and not just being dismissed with a link to the asker that shows the answer he/she would get...  That's a fair criticism for anyone who dislikes the question I think, but it's nothing against the site either and there need not be any confusion on that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2007, 12:59 AM
Jesse, basically from my perspective, it was implied by the tone of the thread that we were idiots for submitting the question and even bigger idiots for discussing their response.  I wasn't the first person to get that impression. 

Personally I don't see any reason to blame a reader for their question if they feel it has not been aswered with a legitimate answer in the past.  What would you and everyone who was upset with the question have said if Hasbro had said "Guess What - we ARE making a Death Star playset and had been holding details back until now!" - would you still be critical of the question, or instead be doing cartwheels in the streets? 

Anyways, I do understand that it was nothing against the site.  No worries, no worries. 

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on January 3, 2007, 01:28 AM
I think it's the discretion and responsibility of the site that's submitting the questions to weed through them in an effort to get the most pertinent question answered.  That's my own take and I'll stand by that.  Now if that question was the best of the bunch, then that's that.  I don't know who's responsible for the Q&A submissions over at Yakface, but this question in particular might serve as a wakeup call for trying to elevate the level of the questions that get submitted.

My issue with the question we're talking about is the complete disregard for everything that had been asked and answered previously about playsets.  Now perhaps the person asking the question isn't quite as tapped into the collecting community as a lot of people here.  Because many of us know that these questions have been asked and answered before.

But then you get to the ammount of attitude that's dished out in the question.  To me that's where this particular question crossed the line.  I think we can exercise a reasonable level of civility in the process.  This question didn't have that.  It basically said that we (collectors) know the toy business better than Hasbro and drew some very inappropriate comparisons.  I honestly would have liked to see Hasbro lay out the numbers for this guy to show how far off-base he was in his assumptions, but that would have been a PR blunder.

And I think that it's here where the staff of a website should get involved in the process once again.  Since some of them do have direct contact with Hasbro they're more likely to have an understanding of the business aspects.  Elaborating on Hasbro's answers with forum members wouldn't be a bad thing for any website to do.  For instance, does this forum member know that Hasbro owns GI Joe as a intellectual property, and therefore doesn't have any licensing costs to factor into their unit costs?  My guess is no.  Does this forum member understand that Hasbro paid hundreds of millions of dollars for the Star Wars license, and that business deal impacts every Star Wars item that Hasbro produces?  And does this forum member know that Zizzle is a very different business from Hasbro, owing it's entire existance to it's Pirates Of The Carribean license?  It is all of these factors that should be presented to this forum member in an honest dialogue.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 3, 2007, 01:54 AM
Personally I don't see any reason to blame a reader for their question if they feel it has not been aswered with a legitimate answer in the past.

Exactly.  I'd put it more on the site, than the individual.  After all, all the individual can do is write the question, but the site has to select it for that week's submittal.  At that point, it's out of the individual's hands, and it becomes a "site question" rather than a "userXYZ question."

If I could be allowed to quote my December 18 self:  any "bashing" that's been done has been focused more on the question itself, less on the site that asked it, and not at all on the individual who asked it.

And even if Yakface never, ever reads any other site's Q & A's, that still doesn't change the fact that the last time they asked about playsets, they received an atypically-candid response:  "We've discussed playsets to death, I think."  If that wasn't a subtle hint to quit asking about them, I don't know what is.  "But we don't like that response, so let's go ahead and ask them again, anyway."  Anyone have the definition of insanity handy?

We can beat Hasbro over the head about playsets all we want, but the reality is, they've been beating us over the head about them this whole time:  Playsets aren't economically feasible for them right now.  It's time for some sites to wake up and smell the ******* coffee.

Quote
What would you and everyone who was upset with the question have said if Hasbro had said "Guess What - we ARE making a Death Star playset and had been holding details back until now!" - would you still be critical of the question, or instead be doing cartwheels in the streets?

Terrible argument.  In other words, "I guess what we'll do is just keep on keepin' on, asking the same ol' questions, week-in, and week-out, and when the response finally changes, we're gonna look like a bunch of geniuses."

It would easily be possible to be elated about an answer, and at the same time, be amazed that a site blew yet another question that had literally been asked about dozens of times before.  That the response suddenly changed doesn't make the question any less ******.

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2007, 02:14 AM
Like I said though CHEWIE, the tone of the thread is focused on a question and the Q&A as it is around the internet and it's not just a one-site deal...  JD isn't attacking anyone, or critical of another site in general...  No way at all and this thread didn't imply that in the slightest.

This thread is critical, harsh, mean even in its tone of a question your site asked...  To Nick that's your responsibility, and he makes his case why that is...  To me I'm not saying anything negative about the site or the staff (nor were the other staffers here), but I am right in line with EVERYONE criticizing the question.  The question is just simply bad because it's been answered before, extensively, to death.  If anyone else is criticizing the site, I don't personally see it that way at all, but like I said the only way you can tie the question (which is the topic here) and perceived bashing of the site together is that it was asked at all...  Maybe that's all there was to ask that week though, and so you ran with it so who am I to judge that.  I am being harsh in my criticism of the question though, through and through.

The implication that this was a JD bashing of Yak is and was unappreciated...  It wasn't true, the staff here don't care about that one way or the other and anyone not on the staff with that opinion is entitled to it I guess but I don't see anyone pushing that agenda here...  I do see a lot of people who couldn't help but do the old ::) when they read the SAME friggin' playset question, again, last Q&A go-round...  I personally couldn't believe it was asked again.  It just seemed like a wasted slot, and got the same response.

About the hypothetical argument that Hasbro turns around and pulls a playset out of their ass some week...  Like Matt said, that's a bad argument anyway.  Hypothetical arguments are pointless anyway, but let's add to it that the cartoon comes out next year and just blows away the public...  They do a CW Playset that's really cool...  Q&A repetition didn't impact that, it was just in the cards for it to happen like playsets happened in 1999 and 2002...  Just was their time.

Like I said though, and I reiterate here.  The Q&A thread we're in is harping on the question right now, that's the focus.  I dont' know who took it wrong other than yourself CHEWIE, and maybe it was taken just too personally because you like the question, but Yak's not part of the equation here other than they were the vessel by which this Q got asked at all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2007, 03:42 AM
Jesse, I never said that JD was attacking Yak and said in a previous post that nobody at Yak thought that.  When you said "The implication that this was a JD bashing of Yak is and was unappreciated" - I think what I was saying was misinterpreted.   I did say that bashing was going on, but I never implied it was by JD staff (which is what I refer to when I say JD).  So there's no reason to be defensive on the JD-Yak front.  All is fine.

There was some bashing going on that in my opinion was directed at Yakface for allowing the question to be submitted.  If you don't think the tone of thread was implied that way, then that is your opinion.  You're seeing it from a JD perspective.  And I have mine.  I have said several times now that I didn't think that JD was coming down on Yak, and I mean it.  Just the tone of the thread was (not by staff members) hostile.  I hope I don't have to say again that I don't feel JD was being critical of Yak and am sorry that you received that impression. 

Now, I'll say again that I didn't like how that playset question was worded when it was sent to Hasbro.  That was the only bad thing about it in my opinion, it came off as rude.  And I hate seeing that, I wish it had been at least edited down some.

This has sparked my curiosity some and I've looked back at some of the questions that I've missed.  Here's a great one from here at JD not too long ago -

----------------------------------------------------------------

3. What's been the biggest learning point that you've taken away from participating in the first 20 Q&A sessions? Has there been anything in particular that made you sit back and think, "wow, those crazy collectors are really after product X?" Have there been any specific products set into motion for 2008 or beyond based on the collective Q&A input?

** Interesting question. If anything, it has been that our intuition and interest in expanding into the EU definitely struck a vein of fan interest and the large number of EU-related questions have enabled us to think as broadly as possible about the prospects and think about other opportunities. Another thing we have taken away is that beyond the EU, we think that we have been constructing the whole line in a way that touches upon many, if not all, of the specific sub-classes of figures and themes that fans like at least as far as the figure and vehicle selection goes that fans have been asking about. If fans are asking detailed questions that is good for us and helps us think more deeply about things. Of course, the hardest thing about the Q&A is holding ourselves back a bit in our answers and not "spilling the beans" about the exciting things we have coming out. We prefer to keep things as close to the vest as possible so we have new things to talk about, and not have the line gradually revealed all the way until the end of 2008 .

----------------------------------------------------------------


Maybe read that answer over again, and see that Hasbro said that asking in more detailed questions is good for them and helps them think more deeply about things.  Plus they mention that since EU was mentioned so many times, they are thinking as broadly as possible about how to incorporate the EU line.  Hmmm.... what's so different about bringing up playsets again in a Q&A when EU has been done several times and they admit it has gotten them more serious about it?  What if because they saw a lot of interest in the playsets in the Q&As, they started to take it more seriously?

The more you look into it, the more it appears that if you do want playsets, you're wasting an opportunity to maybe have them think as broadly as possible here.  Ask once and you get a "NO" and then drop the subject without addressing it in another fashion when your readers are still asking about it?   If we drop it when there is clearly still interest there by collectors, Hasbro might see it as "See, we don't need to make laysets for them because they're not even asking about it anymore." 

But if they hear it enough, they might take on a new attitude and at least go to the drawing board and see what might be accomplished, put forward a project plan and put out a couple examples for fans to vote on.  Then put it out there as an exclusive to limit production enough to cover their costs/profit margin.  That is what I meant when I said what if Hasbro announced in a Q&A that a playset was in the works because of the overwhelming interest by the fans... I think at that point people would be GLAD that the question was asked.  People can say this would never happen all they want, but I've been around boards for almost 10 years and have seen people say all kinds of things would never happen, that eventually did.

I don't believe in giving up on something that I want to see happen, especially when I know there are people out there who want the exact same thing.  When there is something you want to see done, see if you can do something about it... what other opportunity to we have to express to Hasbro that many of us want playsets?  Do they have a suggestion box that I'm not aware of?  We have their ear with these Q&A's at least to some degree.  I want to see fresh, creative, original questions as much as anyone, but if someone brought up ICMG or something else they haven't seemed interested in before, I'd respect that person and the site enough to not ridicule them for the question being answered. 

I work in market research and we do a lot of focus groups/data collection.  There are opportunities for respondents to use open ended qualitative responses to explain what they want to see in a product.  Time and time again, our clients find answers that surprise them thought this methodology and discover breakthroughs in their research.  Maybe Hasbro just isn't open minded enough, or maybe they have it all working like a well oiled machine.  They must do a lot of research, but I don't think they've figured out the kid/collector mix they have in their market just yet.  Getting better, just not there yet.


Before I call it a night, Bob Dylan SW fan's post earlier regarding this clearly represents my point of view.  -

Look, this site continues to carry the torch for a figure that defines obscure and uninteresting. And I signed the petition, because I'll support some fans getting something they want, even if it isn't something I am very interested in myself. It's part of supporting the community we have created.

I continue to kick the playset horse myself in some of these threads. I would like to see some products to showcase the thousands of figures I have bought in the last 10 years. I don't care much for play features, but some well made backdrops for my characters would be very welcome. They don't need to be huge or complicated, something like the backdrops they have been inserting into the ship boxes with windows (dagobah x wing, snowspeeder).

This is not 1977. These items do not have to be carried in a catalog, shipped to thousands of retail stores, and advertised on television. Hasbro has a sales website capable of carrying something like this, or it could be a shared internet exclusive like some of the multipacks. I think there are creative ways to look at making something to see how it does.

I just think the tone of this thread is not something the mods should be supporting. It is bashing- pure and simple. The message is clear, anyone asking for playsets or something like it is an idiot. But don't forget to sign the ICMG petition on your way out the door.

It's a hobby of toys- smearing someone elses ideas does not make you smarter or better then them. There is no right way to collect, and no wrong way either.




 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2007, 05:07 AM
I'm all about the people keeping hope alive for what it is they want...  I want super articulation, or at least an increased standard, across the board...  It happens in some ways but fluctuates so I'm not 100% content, but I keep my hope alive...  That said, like I mentioned earlier in this thread, I don't ask a question weekly about an increase in articulation because I know the answer to that question. 

Now, I was gonna quote something here but it's so incredibly extensive and long-winded that it'd screw this page completely...  It's the Playset portion of the Q&A Archive that Matt puts together around the forums.  There are questions from every site (including here) on playsets...  There's almost every variation on playsets within this grouping you could imagine from little interlocking playsets to subcontracting playsets to another better company for it...  You name it and it seems asked in here.  Please, check it out as there's a lot:

Categorized Playset List Of Q's & A's From Hasbro (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12930.0)

Now, honestly...  Totally serious here...

Did the question asked at Yak innovate on ANY of those ideas at all?  A single one of them?

I think when Hasbro answered our question about EU and in-depth questions and such, they're talking apples and oranges in comparison to playsets...  Playsets don't have the variety to discuss even.  They are what they are...  EU, as per my interpretation of the answer, is something so broad that they get this or that brought to their attention from a source they didn't think of...

Looking through the Q&A archive though, I don't see how you can get more involved in asking a playset question and get them to stroke their beards in contemplation and think about the topic at this point.  I'm sure if that question existed and got asked, it really wouldn't get this kind of a reception when people talk about the Q&A...  I'm sure it'd get some interest and discussion going, it would have put some light on at Hasbro.

But we're here talking about this specific question that was asked, and there was not one innovative thought in that question, it didn't make anyone think "wow, that's a good idea that Hasbro is sure to listen to!".  It just fell flat...

Hell, take away the condescending attitude, and I think it still sucks...  It didn't ask a single variation on anything already answered.  It's just repetition, and repetition gets old when you've laid out a clear answer to the query.  It just isn't a go for them.  The closest to positive Hasbro has ever said, is that "If ______ is important in the cartoon, maybe", which is hardly a positive towards getting playsets.

The irony of it all is that in this thread I think even the people who think the question sucked, also feel that they would love a nice playset in the vein of what I've heard you talk about in the past.  I mean, how many of us were stoked when we saw the Attakus resin dioramas?  I know I was...  Then I saw the price and realized that was a pipe dream.

Nobody's squishing people's toy dreams by criticizing this thread, I think people are just being realistic as to the question's validity at this point.  It has none...  If I see it expanded upon so it's really innovative, I'd gladly applaud the sly wording and innovative thinking.  That question just basically told Hasbro that they are mistaken, and that they should abandon their data and listen to whoever the guy was that asked that question.

Anyway, that's about it...  I don't know what more to say that makes sense on the matter other than I hope at least that future playset questions somehow take a turn nobody thought of yet in all those myriad of questions I linked to above...

About Bob's quote though, there was a lot of response to his quote...  namely, this one point:

A figure is feasible at this point, no matter how obscure.  Hasbro's track record is past precedent for that, and they have said in the Q&A themselves that even our obscure support of the ICMG is something they are "looking into".  It's a low-risk action figure like any other they can mix in with army builders and main characters to make sure it doesn't hurt them in the long run...

Playsets aren't figures though...

Nobody here wants to squash playset dreams, and most of us want a cool playset too...  I know I sure do.  But the question is just so dead...  If we were told by Hasbro that the ICMG wasn't going to happen ever, because he's just too obscure a character and they won't waste money on him or something, we'd have quit asking them to make him as one of our questions any given week...  We'd still be pushing for one here, but ICMG would really have a death nail in him at that point.  The Playsets seem to be at that point, and I see no way of rewording the question to make Hasbro suddenly agree to make this stuff.  Thus I see questions pertaining to it as fairly wasteful when something else could've been asked.  That's me though, and I still want a playset, I just don't hold out hope for getting one...  Nor do I hope to see SA a standard for this line either.  Just not gonna happen.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on January 3, 2007, 11:54 AM


3. What's been the biggest learning point that you've taken away from participating in the first 20 Q&A sessions? Has there been anything in particular that made you sit back and think, "wow, those crazy collectors are really after product X?" Have there been any specific products set into motion for 2008 or beyond based on the collective Q&A input?

** Interesting question. If anything, it has been that our intuition and interest in expanding into the EU definitely struck a vein of fan interest and the large number of EU-related questions have enabled us to think as broadly as possible about the prospects and think about other opportunities. Another thing we have taken away is that beyond the EU, we think that we have been constructing the whole line in a way that touches upon many, if not all, of the specific sub-classes of figures and themes that fans like at least as far as the figure and vehicle selection goes that fans have been asking about. If fans are asking detailed questions that is good for us and helps us think more deeply about things. Of course, the hardest thing about the Q&A is holding ourselves back a bit in our answers and not "spilling the beans" about the exciting things we have coming out. We prefer to keep things as close to the vest as possible so we have new things to talk about, and not have the line gradually revealed all the way until the end of 2008 .

----------------------------------------------------------------


Maybe read that answer over again, and see that Hasbro said that asking in more detailed questions is good for them and helps them think more deeply about things.  Plus they mention that since EU was mentioned so many times, they are thinking as broadly as possible about how to incorporate the EU line.  Hmmm.... what's so different about bringing up playsets again in a Q&A when EU has been done several times and they admit it has gotten them more serious about it?  What if because they saw a lot of interest in the playsets in the Q&As, they started to take it more seriously?

The more you look into it, the more it appears that if you do want playsets, you're wasting an opportunity to maybe have them think as broadly as possible here.  Ask once and you get a "NO" and then drop the subject without addressing it in another fashion when your readers are still asking about it?   If we drop it when there is clearly still interest there by collectors, Hasbro might see it as "See, we don't need to make laysets for them because they're not even asking about it anymore." 

But if they hear it enough, they might take on a new attitude and at least go to the drawing board and see what might be accomplished, put forward a project plan and put out a couple examples for fans to vote on.  Then put it out there as an exclusive to limit production enough to cover their costs/profit margin.  That is what I meant when I said what if Hasbro announced in a Q&A that a playset was in the works because of the overwhelming interest by the fans... I think at that point people would be GLAD that the question was asked.  People can say this would never happen all they want, but I've been around boards for almost 10 years and have seen people say all kinds of things would never happen, that eventually did.

Chewie, I understand your rationale here.  Hasbro saw just how much interest there was in the EU and they've responded in kind by saying that they're planning on supplementing OT and PT characters with some from the EU.  And to their credit, the people that have been asking for EU figures for years are getting their wish (to an extent).  But when we compare that interest in EU figures with playsets, we're really comparing apples and oranges.  The figure line is broad enough that Hasbro can afford to take some chances with it.  And the costs are low enough that they can at least afford to give things a try.  Plus it's not that hard of a sell for them to get retail involved.

Then we look at playsets.  Sure, the collector interest is there.  But is there kid interest too?  And vice versa, is there a playset design that's geared towards kids that will appeal to collectors as well?  And then there's the costs.  The costs for design, engineering and tooling are considerably higher than those for a figure.  Then factor in getting a retailer on board that is going to make space in their planogram for such an item.  These are the challenges that Hasbro and collectors alike are facing when it comes to playsets.  I think that it's this kind of honesty that we need to have in this kind of discussion.  Now I want playsets as much as any other diorama oriented collector.  But I'm also honest enough to lay out those facts.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2007, 12:16 PM
Jesse, I think we both want just about the same things made in the hobby.  I know you want actually some more large items like the AT-TE if it comes out to be "in scale"; while I'd be happy with a downscaled version because I think it's the only way it could ever be made. 

I think really we just disagree on the validity of the playsets question.  That's a great list compiled of playset questions (thank you), I hadn't realized that there were that many that had been asked.  I'm not sure why it's an invalid question or why this time when something was asked about it that it created such a negative vibe or if that happened the other times it was asked by other sites or not.  I think too big of a deal was made over the question. 

With the number of times it has been brought up to Hasbro though, it at at least has to be getting the point across though that there's interest out there for them.  Hasbro just isn't being creative enough in my opinion to make the idea work.  I don't know how they can prove that playsets don't sell when they are unwilling to actually put a GOOD playset out on the market.  Until that happens, there will always be a number of fans who will and have every right to debate Hasbro on this.  But it's not worth getting into an argument over, it's water under the bridge. 

Nicklab, you make good points and I understand exactly what you're saying.  But I look at the tooling that was required for a Gunship or the ARC-170, and see perhaps even less tooling to go into a simple modular playset.  All you really need is a floor (which is essentially just a sheet of plastic), a few walls that snap on the sides, and a ceiling.  It could be just a few pieces of plastic that interlock.  Throw in a couple accessories and an exclusive figure or any army builder and package it nicely, and I don't think TRU or Target would turn their nose up to the idea of carrying it.  I just don't think it would be that expensive.  Just my opinion.   :)

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Angry Ewok on January 3, 2007, 04:50 PM
You keep saying you understand, but it still seems like you don't "get it"...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on January 3, 2007, 05:18 PM

Nicklab, you make good points and I understand exactly what you're saying.  But I look at the tooling that was required for a Gunship or the ARC-170, and see perhaps even less tooling to go into a simple modular playset.  All you really need is a floor (which is essentially just a sheet of plastic), a few walls that snap on the sides, and a ceiling.  It could be just a few pieces of plastic that interlock.  Throw in a couple accessories and an exclusive figure or any army builder and package it nicely, and I don't think TRU or Target would turn their nose up to the idea of carrying it.  I just don't think it would be that expensive.  Just my opinion.   :)

 ;)

Remember the EPISODE I playsets?  Specifically the Theed Hangar and the Theed Generator playsets?  Those playsets were almost exactly what you're describing.  And those weren't exactly flying off of shelves, and I also can't seem to recall much critical collector acclaim about those sets.

For what a number of collectors seems to be clamoring for, it only seems that what Attakus is doing will fit the bill.  And those pieces cost thousands of dollars.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 3, 2007, 05:27 PM
Quote
it at at least has to be getting the point across though that there's interest out there for them.


Or it's simply something they roll their eyes at week-in-and-week-out because they know they've answered WHY they don't do what they do.  To them, they think the playsets they've done were pretty sharp with play features, detail and the like.  We may not agree on that, but that's how they feel...  And telling them "but that sucked" seems to only inspire a reply like, "Well we think we did a good job".

But anyway, nobody's here to dispute the right to ask a question to Hasbro if someone has the means to do so...  Again that's not the point of this thread, and this particular question that is the focus of the thread right now.  Everyone here is just sharing their really different opinion of what the question-asker asked, and how they basically wasted a slot in a Q&A one week by asking something there are clear answers on already.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 3, 2007, 06:03 PM
Nicklab, I think the EPI one playsets were actually pretty bad but I wouldn't be surprised if Hasbro uses that as an example of playsets not selling, you are right they didn't sell...  The hangar area somewhat looked like something from the film but was terribly constructed and had a huge handle on it. It was ridiculous looking.  I'm not sure that anything from EPI can really be fairly used as an example, the whole line seemed to do poorly from a combination of higher prices and a weak film as compared to the other movies.  Basically everything from EPI when it is released is a slow seller even now.  And those playsets from Naboo aren't really fan favorite areas as compared to a Death Star or something Imperial. 

The Attakus set is awesome though,  I wonder how hard it would be for Hasbro to just make a section of something like that (like where the wall section is).   

Anyways, whatever guys.  I hope none of you have hard feelings towards me now.  We just disagree on this. 

 ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sprry75 on January 3, 2007, 10:39 PM
Chewie, I'm sorry to say that after all of this I have actually come to hate both you and Yakface.

And I hate playsets now, too. 

I'm going to limit my collecting to Micro Machines and 7" Unleashed.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 3, 2007, 11:00 PM
The impression I got when reading the question was not a redundant playset query, but rather as a way to get more explanation from something that doesn't seem completely accurate.  I'd agree that SW choppers and SW Transformers gathering dust in Hasbro warehouses or on retail shelves seems worse than the tried and true playset formula that's been around since the beginning.  I think 4 playsets per store instead of dozens of those other gamble toy lines makes more sense, but I guess I need to understand the specific monies involved.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 4, 2007, 01:43 AM
Hasbro's said (of the Choppers and stuff, which I too hate so don't get me wrong here I'm not defending the product, it blows) that the choppers and things are a means of keeping kids attention...  They're the pretty twinkling lights to keep their eyes focused on THIS toy line instead of drifting off as they so easily do to video games or whatnot.  That really is the motive though and those toys may be a risk unto themselves but they're a risk to keep a market's interest in your brand by any means. 

A wholely separate argument then is whether or not that is a good business sense move on Hasbro's part.  I don't personally get it, but hey sometimes you hit a home run like Galactic Heroes that shocks you, or Darth Tater and such.

And Hasbro's answered the playset formula too...  It seems obvious to us, maybe because we grew up in the eighties with the original line or GI Joe, or MASK, or the other playset-large ticket-centric lines, but to Hasbro they claim the market isn't there for playsets anymore, and that it takes more than collectors to keep playsets "out there" without eating it on them...  Hasbro says kids are/were the target on playsets, and that kids just don't have the attention spans to get into those bigger items in the line anymore because their interest wavers too fast. 

Add to that the issues with shelf space in today's retail market that were NOT as big an issue in 198(_), and there's a whole other consideration really...  It spells a bad formula for playsets these days.  I mean, I look at Zizzles ship and building sets thinking how awesome they are and how if I were a kid I'd be dying for that line and the playsets and stuff...  But they also sell like poo, at least around me.

Taking it a step further...  I LOVE the 21st Cent. Toys XD line, something that has had pretty big feet under it since its inception...  It's really a great line, very collector-oriented, the line changes with the collector's wishes (for the most part)...  Back a few years ago they tried playsets, and when I say "playsets" I mean they tried what any collector would give his left nut for in this hobby for a Star Wars "playset", not something half-assed thing with play features, midget scale, and lacking detail...  They did a destroyed 3-level French Farmhouse that makes the Hasbro figure sculpts weep due to the detail this thing had.  There's a cheaper "European Fountain" set that's simply gorgeous, a destroyed governement building section with wall section, and an outstanding Barn to go with the farmhouse set...  These things featured openening doors, multiple levels, and pack-in figures to boot...  All for fair prices too, nothing over $40 mind you, and the bigger sets are BIG.  They're great display stuff. 

There was a second line planned that never saw daylight because the first line tanked...  Why?  I guess cost, maybe size...  This in a toy line that really aims at collectors even though they want the kid market too.  They love collectors in that line though, no doubt, but playsets just tanked at retail... 

My point here is that these sets were everything collectors wanted, they were fairly complex (comprised of more parts than just 2 walls slapped together, even the fountain was made up of a number of parts), and collectors really wanted them too, but they didn't do well at retail...  I think Hasbro faces that same issue with their playsets, and they know it more than we think we know the contrary I'm afraid.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 4, 2007, 10:43 AM
If you haven't already (and if you can stomach it), I'd strongly recommend checking out TF.N's podcast from 12-22.  Almost the whole show is an interview they did with Hasbro's Derryl DePriest.

Direct MP3 file (http://www.theforce.net/podcast/files/Forcecast-122206.mp3) (also available at iTunes)

The interview starts around four minutes in, and lasts a good forty-five minutes.  He gives quite a bit of insight into Hasbro's approach to the line, and hints at a couple of upcoming things, too.

Of particular interest (and the reason I bring this up here) is that about thirty-four minutes in, the discussion turns to vehicles and playsets, which goes on for another seven minutes.

Anyway, it's worth checking out, unless you're one of the blessed who knows more about the toy business than Hasbro does.

;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on January 4, 2007, 11:53 AM
A tough read to be sure

Chewie- what angle are you going to try next for argument?

apples and oranges (doesn't follow fallacy)--  failed

hypothetical situation (purely fantasy what if)--  failed

so what's next ..assumed authority? What, you going to get a celebrity to come in here and argue with us or against Hasbro ..to lobby for a playset?

Though 'interesting' it's obviously a 20:1(or higher ratio ::)) thread against you here. I suppose you could smack your head against the wall enough times to see if that turns up a playset from Hasbro and..miraculously, if it happened, you could be a sudden genius as Matt mentioned.

One thing is clear though--
 
YOU ARE NOT GOING TO FINALLY GET YOUR ******* PLAYSET FROM HASBRO     ....anytime soon

So, smack your head against the machine a few more times, it's entertaining in the least.







You've been very patient with him so far in your more than adequate replies, Jesse. I'm not so patient though...while I would like a new playset as others would... I know the reality.

Let's move on then?


Slothus
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: megaman on January 4, 2007, 01:35 PM
Nicklab, I think the EPI one playsets were actually pretty bad but I wouldn't be surprised if Hasbro uses that as an example of playsets not selling, you are right they didn't sell...  The hangar area somewhat looked like something from the film but was terribly constructed and had a huge handle on it. It was ridiculous looking.  I'm not sure that anything from EPI can really be fairly used as an example, the whole line seemed to do poorly from a combination of higher prices and a weak film as compared to the other movies.  Basically everything from EPI when it is released is a slow seller even now.  And those playsets from Naboo aren't really fan favorite areas as compared to a Death Star or something Imperial. 

The Attakus set is awesome though,  I wonder how hard it would be for Hasbro to just make a section of something like that (like where the wall section is).   

Anyways, whatever guys.  I hope none of you have hard feelings towards me now.  We just disagree on this. 

 ;)

go away.  nobody likes you here.  everyone is sick of hearing your retard opinins, and your photo-novels and all your customs are overrated!!! 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on January 4, 2007, 02:42 PM
Personally, I'd rather read Chewie's opinions as compared to poorly written posts that have nothing to do with the topic at hand.

With that said, I'd like to throw my two cents in on the QNA matter. 

Hasbro has stockholders to appease unlike some of the other toy companies that can afford to invest in large playsets (Zizzle for example).  Every dollar Hasbro spends in capital (tooling new toys) will be scrutinized and thefore, must be justified before it can be spent.

They must ask themselves, how can we maximize our investment dollars?  What will give us the most bang for our buck? 

Why do you think we see so many reissues of figures and ships?

Those tins that are so eloquently packaged with rehased figures on all of the retailers' shelves cost absolutely nothing in regards to capital.  The tins were most likely purchased from a third party vendor and you know the story with the figures. 

You have to admit, it's a smart strategy.  Maxmizing your return with minimal investment (and risk) is a very simple, yet effective way to run your business and make your shareholders happy.

There's ALWAYS a reason why companies do what they do.  There's a reason why the mid scale assault vehicles are $19.99.  Hasbro has been in the business long enough to know what their consumers want.  Yes, there is demand for SW playsets, but the demand does not warrant the investment. 

They know this - I guarantee it. 

With a privately held company, there's only a handful of people to please - and more often than not, smaller overhead expenses (A LOT smaller).

In a nutshell, believe it or not, they can get away with taking bigger risks. 




Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on January 4, 2007, 02:50 PM
Seriously.

Anyways, are we having a Q&A this week?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 4, 2007, 02:52 PM
Same here!  What's with the actual hostility to Chewie?  Both his and Jesse's discussion is good stuff (and a few other people too), but a few people insulting him and claiming "nobody" likes him?  I think he's great and his customizing skills are enviable!  Geez, this is a discussion about toy-producing questions and answers.  While we (the collector sites) may have SOME influence over Hasbro decisions, face facts that they make decisions and then let out a little info as they see fit.  We're not going to run the department as much as we'd like.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on January 4, 2007, 02:56 PM
are we having a Q&A this week?

Nope.  No new answers until next week...

And, a note:  Due to the upcoming Holidays, Hasbro will be taking a Q&A break. Look for the Weekly Q&A to resume on January 12th!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: speedermike on January 4, 2007, 05:54 PM
About all this playset hubbub...maybe we should ask Hasbro if they would ever consider sharing some playset designs that they have created, but will never be made.  Just like Lucasfilm shows preproduction art from the films, Hasbro could show us some "what If" stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: David on January 4, 2007, 10:20 PM
more stuff to complain and badger about in the QnA's? not a good idea.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on January 5, 2007, 01:48 AM
Thank you to Daigo-Bah, Spuffy, ruiner, Nicklab, and Jesse, and anyone else I might have missed who was being cordial with me in discussing the topic earlier.

This might sound odd, but I'm going to write something personal here now. 

After getting home from work tonight, talking with my wife for a few minutes, and getting online to surf the net for a bit and then get back to real work for my job, I noticed how much I neglect the more important things in life like my family. 

Then I came back here and thought about all the comments that I let get under my skin here in this thread, saw earlier today the troll posting comments about me in several threads, thought about how serious I take customizing, how I go on toy runs every chance I get, etc.  And I realized I've let this hobby consume most of my life, and I've taken it too personally.  For the last 11 or so years now, this hobby has almost always been the defining thing in my life, the thing that keeps me really going (especially when my closest collecting buddy, Mike, died in 2001.  I had been friends with him since 1st grade).  But I've fallen in love with it too much, to the point where it's affected my health and my job.  For those of you that are aware of my sleeping disorder, my doctor has indicated that it could be attributed to my Star Wars fetish for customizing/photonovels.  That when I try and sleep, my mind obsesses with it.  I was too embarrassed to admit before.  But I don't feel embarrassed about it now.  It's the truth.

For my age I feel I am really immature when it comes to having such a love for Star Wars, I look at so many things through the eyes of the child I was in the early 1980s.  It's fun trying to recapture that feeling through this hobby, that's the reason I think a lot of us do it.  And for those who question my ideas, I guess you don't understand my reasoning.  I'm a kid when it comes to just about everything.  Here I am, almost 30 years old and even my two best friends, I've been best friends with since we were 7 years old back when we loved and played Star Wars together.  I guess I'm trying to hold onto my childhood too long.

My wife and I are expecting our first child this June.  Because of that, my life will be changing a lot obviously.  I won't have the time I have had the past two years to customize and create the photonovels that mean so much to me.  I'm not going to be able to afford all the figures I am wanting to get.  And you know, that's probably a really good thing for me.  Maybe once I have a kid, I'll experience "living through your child."  I think I need that desperately.  I won't push away time with my kid for the hobby.  I probably do that too much already with my marriage.

Sorry for so much personal stuff and going off topic like I did.  I just felt like I should maybe tell a little more about myself to those that don't know me here, beause I feel like not too many really do.  If you take the time to read that, maybe you'll understand my intentions/motivations more when it comes to wanting things like playsets, making photonovels, and why sometimes I've let things get under my skin too often. 

thank you,

Justin

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JediMAC on January 5, 2007, 04:19 AM
I want some new playsets diorama sets too, goddamnit!  WTF am I supposed to pose my Cantina and Jabba's Palace denizens in?  ******' Hasbro ratbastards.  >:(

I think I'm just going to put them all on that bitchin' Black Pearl playset.  Talk about kickass (and affordable)...



(good luck with the Mrs. and future CHEWIE Jr., CHEWIE)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 5, 2007, 10:54 AM
Chewie, please don't scare me with thoughts of leaving/reducing the hobby!  Just remember that this hobby is a therapeutic (or supposed to be!) method of helping to deal with life issues.  I do think your custom time will diminish soon due to upcoming child (congratulations!), but you'll still be able to do it and perhaps get more enjoyment out of it.  I'm close to 35 years old now, married for almost 10, and have 2 girls (6 and 2 years old), so self-time is tough to find, but I need it and so I make it happen here and there. Trust me, you don't have to give up something for another thing, but a little adjustment will make each aspect more enjoyable. ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on January 5, 2007, 11:19 AM
******* Christ.  Can we get back on topic, please?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: DoctorPadawan on January 6, 2007, 02:21 PM
******* Christ.  Can we get back on topic, please?

Ask and ye shall receive Matthew...

Could someone (anyone?) ask Hasbro about the Saleucami Clone Trooper/BARC Speeder Bike two-pack if the questions haven't been submitted yet?  Not so much about who's getting it, when, and all that other stuff that Hasbro won't reveal, but more about the concerns of leg warpage due to the thighs on the figures being so close together and the straddle portion of the bikes being so wide apart.  I know Hasbro's all about making things nice in the package, but if it's going to be damaging to the toys inside, it'd be nice to know what we were getting ourselves into beforehand.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on January 12, 2007, 02:07 PM
Ok, we've waited patiently...need some questions and answers.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on January 12, 2007, 05:11 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 1/5 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1168639598,73495,)...

- Who sculpts all these figures anyway?
- Remember the 1978 Stormtrooper blaster?
- The end of 3.75" Titanium Figures?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 13, 2007, 12:35 AM
Interesting- 10 to 12 freelance sculptors!
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 13, 2007, 03:32 AM
Yeah I thought that was interesting too...  GH did a story once a little bit ago about a guy that had sculpted the VOTC Chewbacca which really is one of the finer sculpts of the modern line I think...  I find the who's behind the scenes to be interesting because sometimes you can almost tell the same guy did this or that...  That Chewbacca definitely has a look that makes you notice that same "style" almost in other figures I think. 

I would've thought they had more sculptors in-house to tweak the sculpts too really.  The times of keeping them inside the company seem to be gone though for most toy manufacturers.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Scott on January 13, 2007, 11:31 PM
Can I nominate whoever had the question about Multi-Colored Stormtroopers for "Question of the Week"...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on January 14, 2007, 01:35 AM
Yeah, those sound cool. I'm pretty sure there was different colored stormies, unlike the camo BDs.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on January 14, 2007, 08:27 AM


I don't know what is scarier about that question, that it was asked or that Hasbro has taken it under consideration.  Will Hasbro and Lucas please leave the OT alone and stop trying to make it fit the PT world.

There were some pretty good questions and answers though this time around.

However, Hasbro contradicts themselves again.  When asked about the Comic pack vader and his arms, they said there was not time to modify any of the figures in the first wave, does that mean Han in Stormtrooper has been done and was just waiting for release and they chose blue highlights as the way to do it?

Do we surmise from the answers that the Bothan we are getting will be in a Rogue Squadron Comic pack? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on January 14, 2007, 11:35 AM
I wonder how FFurg qualifies their statement about the Marvel 2-packs being hit of miss. They haven't been out long enough to justify that statement.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on January 14, 2007, 01:14 PM
Yeah, the no modifying the comic pack figs was interesting, considering Han; they must have already done the tooling for him (or for the upcoming clone head Stormtrooper, which I assume is the exact same body).  And somewhere, they also mentioned how with the Naboo/Endor wave, some figs actually got pushed back from it til next year or later - maybe that Qui Gon they talked about was supposed to be there.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on January 14, 2007, 01:51 PM
  And somewhere, they also mentioned how with the Naboo/Endor wave, some figs actually got pushed back from it til next year or later - maybe that Qui Gon they talked about was supposed to be there.



I think they're specialy talking about TAC wave 2 which was to be Saga2 wave 8.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on January 14, 2007, 02:12 PM
Yeah, the no modifying the comic pack figs was interesting, considering Han; they must have already done the tooling for him (or for the upcoming clone head Stormtrooper, which I assume is the exact same body). 

Right, it sure isn't the OT Tin Sandtrooper body.  I've tried the head swap and it didn't work.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 14, 2007, 03:54 PM
Can I nominate whoever had the question about Multi-Colored Stormtroopers for "Question of the Week"...

That's a "winner" for sure.  Ugh, what a terrible idea.  [insert barfing emoticon]
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on January 14, 2007, 04:06 PM
Here, here.  We already got the Blackhole Stormtrooper.  Are people expecting a red Stormtrooper now?  I know that whenever I've been at a Con and I've seen this guy in red Stormtrooper armor, I've been somewhat uncomfortable with the whole idea.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CorranHorn on January 14, 2007, 07:33 PM
I wonder how FFurg qualifies their statement about the Marvel 2-packs being hit of miss. They haven't been out long enough to justify that statement.

That was my question, and thus my statement which I based on posts I've read on various boards since the time the figures were first shown online several months back. Taking a look at the threads related to the comic 2-packs here on JD alone, you can see how there are those who really like the idea of "Marvel-colored" figures or hate it. And really since when does a product need to be released for collectors to have a strong opinion of it?

Yeah, the no modifying the comic pack figs was interesting, considering Han; they must have already done the tooling for him (or for the upcoming clone head Stormtrooper, which I assume is the exact same body). 

That was what I got out of Hasbro's answer as well. The Stormtrooper mod must have already been in place for them to get that into production a lot quicker than they could have with a modified Vader.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 14, 2007, 08:30 PM
Yeah, those sound cool. I'm pretty sure there was different colored stormies, unlike the camo BDs.

And I nominate this for most missed point from a post ever. :)

I don't think OCB was nominating that question because it's "cool", and right now EU doesn't imply a vast array of rainbow colors for Stormtroopers.  Quite the opposite actually where the Clone's individuality given them by the Jedi is seemingly "taken" from them after Order 66 (or a little while past), and thus the all white Troopers from the OT...

I'd sooner Hasbro concentrated on actual EU designs before they went into rainbow OT Troopers, but a big part of me really feels this was inevitable if LFL wasn't opposed to the idea...  It's dumb though.

I'd rather see them do a Storm COmmando ala Rogue Squadron, or the original Zero-G Stormtrooper design than the all-too-easily-imaginable red, blue, purple. plaid, vertical striped, horozontal striped, and the holiday edition candy cane Stormtrooper variants.  ::)

About the FFURG question, I don't have anything to do with the Q&A there Anthony but I think what CorranHorn's notion was, was that the fan-reaction to the packs was mixed...  And it was of course.  I know I hate them, yet other people I speak to think they're cool to have a set of...  Some just wanted the Han.  Not a home-run concept I think, but one that some like it, and some hate it (and while they're not out long I can say that, in my area anyway, they are pegwarming some...  at least 2 packs seem to be for me that is).  But yeah I can see the question though I can easily see Hasbro saying, "They were just released so we're not sure yet".  I haven't read every Q&A yet to know the answer, haha. :)

I think the Marvel Comic sets are REALLY aimed at collectors though...  I have a hard time seeing the kids get pulled into them much, but stranger things have happened to so what do I know?  But that point I think sort of influences the importance of early fan reaction as opposed to waiting a month to see if these are stagnating on pegs.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on January 16, 2007, 05:21 PM
Hasbro has informed us that due to their busy schedules as they get ready for Toy Fair 2007 and the launch of the 30th Anniversary collection, they will be reducing the Q&A sessions to an "every other week" schedule.

So, there will be no answers this week.  The answers to the questions that we submitted on 1/12 will instead be available on 1/26.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Sems Fir on January 16, 2007, 06:24 PM
Yeah I thought that was interesting too...  GH did a story once a little bit ago about a guy that had sculpted the VOTC Chewbacca which really is one of the finer sculpts of the modern line I think...  I find the who's behind the scenes to be interesting because sometimes you can almost tell the same guy did this or that...  That Chewbacca definitely has a look that makes you notice that same "style" almost in other figures I think. 

I would've thought they had more sculptors in-house to tweak the sculpts too really.  The times of keeping them inside the company seem to be gone though for most toy manufacturers.

I apologize for bringing up an old question / answer, but Hasbro's reply could fall under the mmmm....okay catagory.  It's true that there's not that many sculptors in house that work on the Star Wars toy brand (yes, I do know how many sculptors are in house), but stuff still does get done inside as well as outside.  Those two inch figures are all done overseas and not in the states.  Pretty much every figure that Hasbro develops gets tweaked for approval.  Since the company let most of the sculptors go and there's numerous toylines and not enough bodies to sculpt freelancing is the way Hasbro goes.  Overall, it's cheaper for them to outsource than pay a staff's family healthcare.  It's a shame as there was so much talent that went by the wayside all for the bottom dollar.

Robert
www.behindthetoys.com (http://www.behindthetoys.com)
LEAD EDITOR
BLACK S. U. N.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on January 16, 2007, 06:29 PM
Hasbro has informed us that due to their busy schedules as they get ready for Toy Fair 2007 and the launch of the 30th Anniversary collection, they will be reducing the Q&A sessions to an "every other week" schedule.

So, there will be no answers this week.  The answers to the questions that we submitted on 1/12 will instead be available on 1/26.

Hmm, that sounds really suspicious. Are they going to go back to the weekly format once Toy Fair/Launch of TAC is over with? If not, I''m thinking that this Q&A could be on its last leg, which I believe a few people around here were predicting a few weeks ago.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 16, 2007, 07:37 PM
I'm not shocked by their decision for some pretty obvious reasons.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on January 26, 2007, 09:06 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 1/12 has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1169863101,30054,)...

- Tantive Rebel Trooper Close-Up?
- 2007 Wave 3 Vader: new or repack?
- Death Star Trooper: new or kit-bash?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 27, 2007, 02:45 AM
Guess we beat ourselves on our own first question.   :-X  hehe
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: MetalJedi on January 27, 2007, 03:10 AM
Quote
The best way to manage the line, as we have been doing very successfully for the past two years, is to stick with a balanced approach. We balance our cases to ensure that we have the best mix at retail for both kid-targeted figures and collectors, ensuring the best retail "turn" on the pegs. Producing solid case packs of "niche" characters is a sure way to doom the productivity and would lead to these types of figures being dropped entirely, which nobody wants to see.

Yeah, solid cases of troop builders would definately "doom" the line since they would never sit on the shelf longer than 24 hours(if that).  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on January 27, 2007, 04:16 AM
Kind of a boring week overall...  So far anyway.  Win some and lose some...

I thought the question about angle-cut articulation on the knees was a simply silly one though considering that articulation style was pioneered by another toy company and abandoned because it sucks...  It works far better on the arms while it limits the knees.  Then again I think the knee joint is no less important than the elbow really...   I just feel the angle-cut works better for the elbow joint since it allows for wider range of realistic posing while the angled knee really is only good for 2, and perhaps 3 good poses...  It was a failure for 21st's toy line initially and it was a failure when implemented on Star Wars figures too (Sith Training Maul, Fleet Trooper, etc.)

Then again I'm also of the opinion that I don't think you should get short-changed on ANY figure's articulation...  Ball/socket knees and elbows (sometimes angle-cut elbows to save) with wrist joints should be standard...  That's hardly super articulation (or "super articulating every figure" as Hasbro put it, which isn't what anyone has asked for really), that's just what the new standard ought to be at this point...  Drop the ankles if the feet are a "neutral" sculpt (IE: Not like Cody's ankles) and you're doing great.  I love SA as much as the next guy of course but I'm ok with the Saga Death Star Gunner too...  To me, he's pretty much just as perfect as a VOTC Stormtrooper really.

Anyway though...  The other question that caught my eye was the one asking if the 501st Stormtrooper from the Rose Parade was going to be released.  That was pretty commonly known (from StarWars.com) that it was a gift to the 501ster's so I thought that was a wasted slot, but whatcha gonna do I guess?  I guess that was just not known to everyone maybe.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on January 27, 2007, 10:50 AM
Something else I got out of the Q and A this time is that there are 15 Comic packs and 25% of those will be Marvel.  That bascially means that once the Luke and R2D2 pack hits, we will be done with  with Marvel Comic Packs. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on January 29, 2007, 03:14 PM
Something else I got out of the Q and A this time is that there are 15 Comic packs and 25% of those will be Marvel.  That bascially means that once the Luke and R2D2 pack hits, we will be done with  with Marvel Comic Packs. 

Good point , Paul!
Nice to know that at least ;D.

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 29, 2007, 10:23 PM
Something else I got out of the Q and A this time is that there are 15 Comic packs and 25% of those will be Marvel.  That bascially means that once the Luke and R2D2 pack hits, we will be done with  with Marvel Comic Packs. 

Damn, I was hoping for that green rabbit from the early part of the Marvel comic series.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Slothus on February 5, 2007, 05:24 PM
There's been hints of this Q/A to be cancelled soon. When can we expect that I wonder.

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Diddly on February 5, 2007, 10:41 PM
I assumed it was over when they moved to this "every other week" formula. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on February 5, 2007, 11:08 PM
Hasbro sent out a Q&A schedule and that went through May 11th.

After that though, you get into Celebration IV at the end of May and then SDCC in July.  Don't know if they plan to go past that date or not, I guess we will have to wait and see how long it lasts...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on February 5, 2007, 11:11 PM
There's been nothing to imply it will continue or close up one way or the other...  Either way I think it's been a positive thing since it started in general, I'd be disappointed to see it go, but given the downward turn it takes some weeks I could easily see WHY they'd want to close shop on it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on February 7, 2007, 12:04 AM
I think it would be absolutely foolish for Hasbro to discontinue these.  It would come across in the most negative light, and I don't think they want that kind of backlash from their most loyal supporters  ;D.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on February 8, 2007, 06:57 AM
I have to admit that the Q and A is actually pretty decent.  In the beginning I did not think it would be.  But Hasbro has been good with it really.  There have been quite a few interesting things we have learned along the way.  Especially between big announcements.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on February 9, 2007, 09:49 PM
Due to Toy Fair complications, there will be no Q&A Answers today...

All questions that were supposed to be answered today will be held over to the next round and answered on Friday, March 2.

Looks like there will be no Q&A answers in February...  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on February 10, 2007, 01:51 AM
That's definately a whole lot of suck...  Especially since some questions may get answered after Toy Fair and things...  It kind of blows but what are ya gonna do? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 2, 2007, 05:32 PM
The Hasbro QnA for JD from 2/2 (Pre-Toy Fair) has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1172874570,75175,)...

- Gree Again?
- 2007 - Year of Luke?
- Indy?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Artoo on March 2, 2007, 10:02 PM
Damn you Lucafilms!!!!!
It looks like it'll be a year before we find out. I really hope if the license does go to a kid company it's Hasbro. There's only been 1 dud figure this year, which means the Indy line would be awesome. I'm really craving for Indy figures & not that crap Disney gave us.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on March 3, 2007, 01:49 PM
Would you consider doing a fans choice ballet for the Titanium 3" vehicle line? I ask this because the reissues with paint variations and "battle damage" give the impresson that Hasbro has reached the end of the line as far as new ideas. I believe there are plenty of vehicles to be made and maybe the fans need a contest forum to shed light on new vehicles. (ST, 3/02/07)* (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=5183.msg102573#msg102573)

This is an interesting idea and certainly, given the large fan passion for Titanium, a valuable tool for our input.  We'll look into this.

---

I don't know about you guys, but I think a Fan's Choice Ballet could be an interesting experiment.  It's about time someone brought some high culture into toy collecting.  Bravo, Sandpoopers.  Bravo.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on March 4, 2007, 09:06 AM
Yep, I kind of agree with that question.  There are tons of other vehicles they could do instead of repainting the X-Wing 8 times (yes I exagerated but still).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on March 4, 2007, 10:52 AM
I was wondering if anyone else had caught that.  Could we see something in the future like Sith Lake?  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 4, 2007, 11:37 AM
There are tons of other vehicles they could do instead of repainting the X-Wing 8 times (yes I exagerated but still).

Don't underestimate Hasbro and the quest for cash.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 4, 2007, 11:40 AM
The Nutcracker is my favorite ballet, but I can be open-minded  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on March 4, 2007, 02:54 PM
Hasbro confirmed no Yarna for us this year.  :-[
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 5, 2007, 01:19 AM
Would you consider doing a fans choice ballet for the Titanium 3" vehicle line? I ask this because the reissues with paint variations and "battle damage" give the impresson that Hasbro has reached the end of the line as far as new ideas. I believe there are plenty of vehicles to be made and maybe the fans need a contest forum to shed light on new vehicles. (ST, 3/02/07)* (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=5183.msg102573#msg102573)

This is an interesting idea and certainly, given the large fan passion for Titanium, a valuable tool for our input.  We'll look into this.

---

I don't know about you guys, but I think a Fan's Choice Ballet could be an interesting experiment.  It's about time someone brought some high culture into toy collecting.  Bravo, Sandpoopers.  Bravo.

I hope it's not so much ballet as it is a musical...  Star Wars nerd version of Cop Rock.  Tell me you wouldn't want tickets to that one?

This go-rounds questions were different...  Lot of things I know I'm personally very much disinterested in...

Someone needs to counter AF's one question about ball/socket heads too.  Yeah, let's just take the line a step backwards in quality...  I know there's a "problem" with getting the helmets off some figures, but it's still possible...  So I'd take the ball/socket head over doing away with the feature.  ::)  Just be careful with your toy's for god's sake.

And Scum, a playset-ish question?  Come on already...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 5, 2007, 08:41 PM
I thought the same thing when I read the question about doing away with the ball/socket heads.  I was like, "Noooooo! Hasbro, don't think that statement is indicative of what we all think!"  Ball/socket heads have made customization so easy...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on March 6, 2007, 10:09 AM
Some people are just never happy.  I love the ball sockets as it allows for cooler head poses.

Figures can now ponder.


Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on March 6, 2007, 10:21 AM
I like the ball sockets too, and hope that they don't go away anytime soon.  Like ruiner said, some people just aren't ever happy.  They want articulated figures, but without any joints showing.  I don't think we'll be seeing "skin" on 3 3/4" action figures anytime soon ;).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 6, 2007, 03:54 PM
There's always Gentle Giant if you don't like how a figure looks, ya know?  Toys are supposed to have articulation...  GI Joe didn't sell well as a fluke.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on March 6, 2007, 03:57 PM
Exactly right Jesse.  I think many of the Star Wars figures we see now - using the VOTC figures as an example - are a great blend of good articulation and a nice sculpt.  Sure, we're not going to mistake it for a real person standing on our shelves, but we're not supposed to.  That's what busts and statues are for, if you don't want articulation "lines".
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on March 14, 2007, 04:01 PM
Hasbro has totally screwed up GI JOE stuff in my opinion.  So much potential yet terrible execution... I think they should go for more realism like in the 21st century line with their sculpts (and a lot of the designs too).

Looks like with their 25th anniversary line they could have a good thing coming though.

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 16, 2007, 07:30 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1174087119,84197,)... and man is it chock full o'tidbits!

- no blue coat V30AC Hoth Han... and LFL squashed the extra "Hood Up" head :(
- Torture Rack Han Solo = confirmed  :)
- TFU figures officially delayed... but apparently it's not a big deal.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 16, 2007, 07:51 PM
Aargghhhh!!  How can they not include the hood-up head?!  I would MUCH rather that head than the other hood, and it's much more iconic of the outfit with more screen time!  When did he ever have just the hat without the hood?  They should release it on a ball-jointed neck, and if we desire to have a hoodless Han, we can replace the head with a VOTC/VTSC one.  On a side note, LOVE the mention of the torture rack  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on March 16, 2007, 08:25 PM
Also, way to throw folks into a tizzy about there not being as much VTSC this year.  Same as 2004?  Weren't there lots of those?  Why even telegraph that?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: obi-dad on March 16, 2007, 09:31 PM
- no blue coat V30AC Hoth Han... and LFL squashed the extra "Hood Up" head :(
- Torture Rack Han Solo = confirmed  :)
- TFU figures officially delayed... but apparently it's not a big deal.

Hey, if the Torture Rack Han Solo is true, then how about some of those other figures from that one rumor list (from some company's upcoming inventory list)?   I'm sure I read in a Hasbro QnA that they were just all wishfull thinking/rumors.  But I don't recall reading anywhere else about rumors for the Torture Rack, besides that posting, and that turned out to be true.  How many other figures will turn out to be coming out this year?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 17, 2007, 02:09 AM
Also, way to throw folks into a tizzy about there not being as much VTSC this year.  Same as 2004?  Weren't there lots of those?  Why even telegraph that?

To make sure they sell them all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 17, 2007, 02:36 AM
I agree with Anton...

Call me a skeptic, but I think that was a slight bit of hogwash on Hasbro's part to make sure people are "clamoring" for them.

Consider this...  2004 was 3 lines of VOTC.  2007 is 1 line of VTAC.  I think they will produce PLENTY of these for everyone.  Just maybe not in the skads they produced for VTOC in 2006, which was pretty absurd in numbers when you look at it.  VTOC was hardly difficult to find though, and a lot of what was hard to find, was hard to find because the first wave screwed the second wave.

I think what we're seeing is Hasbro's attempt at early buzz, ala the R2-Potatoo figure, so they don't linger TOO much.  With all the rethinking of the due date for the Lucas Trooper figure, it's pretty obvious Hasbro was aware that way too many vintage figures were imade last year and in the pipes for a very long time.  Good for us since they clearance a lot of places, bad for them and retail.

I'm not concerned and I think we'll see something like a fairly minimal difference in production numbers.  Big maybe on paper, but in terms of demand for a $10 figure it'll come to nothing we'd notice much, just less clearance sales.

I can already see the people freaking out over this...  People who don't know much better about ploys like that, scalpers, etc.  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on March 17, 2007, 02:59 AM
I'm just glad nobody else asked about Force Unleashed this week. . .   :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 17, 2007, 03:06 AM
Yeah we dodged a bullet on that one.  ::)

Eh, some weeks you just never know who's gonna duplicate.  Then it turns out we almost all do.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on March 17, 2007, 09:00 AM
Too bad about the hood up Han, maybe they can eventually include that one when they do the blue coat version.

I also think hasbro confirmed Bom Vindim from the RS Q&A.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on March 17, 2007, 09:33 AM
I can already see the people freaking out over this...  People who don't know much better about ploys like that, scalpers, etc.  ::)

I won't be freaking out...I am just going to order 6 cases to ensure I get my dozen Snowtroopers...not freaking..more like building a safety net.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 17, 2007, 10:35 AM
I'm just glad nobody else asked about Force Unleashed this week. . .   :-X

At least we had the bit about the 2 stormtroopers in our question, so our answer was slightly different from the rest...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on March 17, 2007, 12:56 PM
I'm just glad nobody else asked about Force Unleashed this week. . .   :-X

But didn't you enjoy the form letter response?  I know that we asked about the character rundown for the wave at The Jawa, but they weren't even willing to dish on that.  So we still have to refer to that Jedi as the "Samurai Jedi".  Uck.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Since1978 on March 17, 2007, 05:11 PM
I also think hasbro confirmed Bom Vindim from the RS Q&A.
I'd say him or Brainiac was confirmed - I just wish somebody would ask about the Saurins, to make sure they stay on the radar at Hasbro.

'78
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Since1978 on March 17, 2007, 05:26 PM
Anyone notice this question:

"You've announced previously that in 2008 you'll be revisiting Bespin for a wave figures. Will you include Willrow Hood in that wave? If not, do you realize collectors will storm the Hasbro parking lot and smash the windows out of all your cars? Rhode Island is a small state... we'll find you. I mean, to do a Bespin wave at this point and NOT include Willrow? You may as well just spit in all our faces."

I think it was creature cantina that posted that - I don't mind their answer as ICMG is something I'm not into - what shocks me is that a site even allowed something like this through.  I don't see any emoticons in the post, so it's hard to say whether they're kidding or not.

But that seems like another question that continues to get asked over and over.

Where do y'all put suggested questions on here?

On another note, I do have a question now about filling the gap in 2007 for the FU figures.

While wave eight may be moved forward in their release date, that says we'll only get 52 figures this year - will there be anything to fill the overall gap left by moving FU to 2008?  Will the first wave of 2008 be moved forward to 2007?  Perhaps another "repaint" continuation wave like 2005 or 2006?  Seems like Hasbro would be remis to leave that big a gap in the basic releases for the year.

Of course, this may be the common follow-on question in two weeks.

'78
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darby on March 17, 2007, 05:42 PM
I'm sure we'll see another group of repaints - but that would leave eight holes in that coin folder... hmm.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: obi-dad on March 17, 2007, 06:05 PM
Hey, if the Torture Rack Han Solo is true, then how about some of those other figures from that one rumor list (from some company's upcoming inventory list)?   I'm sure I read in a Hasbro QnA that they were just all wishfull thinking/rumors.  But I don't recall reading anywhere else about rumors for the Torture Rack, besides that posting, and that turned out to be true.  How many other figures will turn out to be coming out this year?

Guess I'm quoting myself here, but since no one replied to this, wondering what other think of this.  The posting had:

Quote from: Jeff link=topic=14790.msg284706#msg284706
Unconfirmed/Rumored Waves for 2007:

Wave ? - Expanded Universe Based

Roron Corobb
Yoda with Kybuck
Anakin Skywalker (Tatooed)
Darth Revan
Darth Malak
General Grievous (Pre-Cyborg)
Concept Luke Skywalker


Wave ? - Empire Strikes Back

Han Solo (Torture Rack)
Lando Calrissian (Smuggler)
Hoth Rebel Trooper (Gen. Pharl McQuarrie?)
4-LOM
Concept Snowtrooper


Wave ? - RotJ - Battle of Endor

Ewok 2-Pack
R2-D2 with Cargo Net
Spirit of Anakin Skywalker
Tycho Celchu (Rebel A-Wing Pilot)
Concept Han Solo


Wave ? - Attack of the Clones

Clone Trooper
Padme Amidala (Theed Dinner)
Jango Fett with Poncho
Voolvif Monn
Destroyer Droid with Shield
Concept Rebel Soldier

Sure would be cool if others in this list turned out to be real... especially the ESB & ROTJ wave.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 17, 2007, 07:36 PM
Where do y'all put suggested questions on here?

Questions for Hasbro? (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: BillCable on March 18, 2007, 08:04 PM
I think it was creature cantina that posted that - I don't mind their answer as ICMG is something I'm not into - what shocks me is that a site even allowed something like this through.  I don't see any emoticons in the post, so it's hard to say whether they're kidding or not.

Hasbro knows who we are, and agreed to play along.  Of course we keep missing the deadlines for questions to be submitted, so who knows when we'll get more in.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JesseVader08 on March 18, 2007, 08:43 PM
I think it was creature cantina that posted that - I don't mind their answer as ICMG is something I'm not into - what shocks me is that a site even allowed something like this through.  I don't see any emoticons in the post, so it's hard to say whether they're kidding or not.

They're not kidding.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 19, 2007, 01:27 AM
I think it was creature cantina that posted that - I don't mind their answer as ICMG is something I'm not into - what shocks me is that a site even allowed something like this through.  I don't see any emoticons in the post, so it's hard to say whether they're kidding or not.

Hasbro knows who we are, and agreed to play along.  Of course we keep missing the deadlines for questions to be submitted, so who knows when we'll get more in.

You and other sites it seems. :)  I guess the new schedule is confusing some of the other place's submissions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 30, 2007, 06:40 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1175292954,55039,)...

- Details on the 2007 30AC Bespin Han Solo!
- IG-88's articulation?
- Why can't Mace sit down?

Consider this Han Solo fanboy very pleased to hear that we are, in fact, getting an improved Bespin Han Solo.   :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 30, 2007, 07:20 PM
"New Upper Legs" really says this figure might have leg articulation beyond the hips.  That's pretty great news to me...  Curious how the rest of him will shape up.  I'm excited...  IG-88's great news too.  Damn slick articulation on a figure with swizzle sticks for limbs.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 30, 2007, 08:02 PM
Interesting how they have been forthcoming with news on that Torture rack Han considering that there are several waves ahead of it that we still know little details about.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on March 31, 2007, 01:35 AM
That's all Jeff's sweet talkin'.

And oh man...  Some good questions got out this week but again some real meh stuff too.  Am I mistaken or did SSG ask not only about Action Fleet, but also a reworded question on playsets?  Sheesh!  ::)

I liked the UGH coin question too since that was actually information that's already out there in most forum's Coin thread.  I thought that the gold coins were old hat since Toy Fair anyway.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: AmanaMatt on March 31, 2007, 09:00 PM
I love the Q&As, thanks for the hard work on these, everyone. I cannot wait for that new Ig-88.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on April 1, 2007, 02:22 AM
Head to the Q&A area of the forums a few sections below the 30th to put your own questions in, AmanaMatt.  It's always good to get more into the mix, especially as this has gotten spaced out a bit now.  Q's sometimes get answered in the interim it seems.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 1, 2007, 02:05 PM
The Han description kills me. New upper legs, arms, torso and headsculpt. That means from the knees down he'd pure rehash crap.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Nicklab on April 1, 2007, 06:02 PM
Hey, from the knees down it could be a VOTC Han Solo.  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: JangoTat on April 1, 2007, 07:39 PM
if they say  the upper legs are new doesnt that mean it must be ball jointed?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on April 2, 2007, 01:07 AM
Not to be negative, but could it not also mean ball jointed knees on a one piece torso-upper leg piece.  I mean in Hasbro's mind...that part didn't move while he was on the rack...why not just make it all one piece.

I am only pessimistic because I want a new Bespin Han SA....
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Brian on April 2, 2007, 11:00 AM
Great job on the questions here at JD as always guys, and there were some pretty good answers this week it seemed.  I'm really hoping that this "Han with torture rack" ends up being a super-articulated "ultimate" version of Bespin Han, but I'm guessing that might be saved for a future VOTC lineup.  We'll see though, we have got some pretty spiffy figures in the basic line lately.  I can see some sort of grimacing face sculpt, or that the "new arms" are molded so that he fits in the torture rack in a certain way.  We'll see I guess.

I also see they confirmed that the VTAC Snowtrooper does have a removable helmet, the C-3PO with Salicious Crumb has 3PO with his eye dangling and Salicious is supposed to be "new".  It sounds like there are more good things on the way in the Star Wars line this year.  I'm looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on April 2, 2007, 12:11 PM
Lets hope for a sitting Salacious Crumb.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Since1978 on April 4, 2007, 11:23 AM
We also discovered that Camie, Fixer and other Anchorhead figures were actually seriously being considered - not any time soon, but that they were at least "on the radar" - just shows the depths they're looking into as far as future figures are concerned.

'78
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Since1978 on April 4, 2007, 12:36 PM
Also more on the topic of the last waves of 2007, and moving FU...

From swCollector.com

"ANSWER: The Force Unleashed figures will be moved out to Spring 2008 and will not come out this calendar year. As a result we are arranging our waves so there is continuous flow of new figures through the holidays and Spring 2008. It's too early to tell whether they will have the 30th Anniversary line look, but they will probably not have coins as they are likely to come after we have completed the 60 basic figure coins."

Let's set the table like this:

Wave 8 was to be the Jango/Padme "AOTC" wave
Wave 9 was to be the Force Unleashed wave

Original conjecture was that we were moving from a wave release schedule that looked like:

1-7,9,8

to:

1-7,8,9 - moving FU back to later in order to move them closer to the release of the game.

Now we get confirmation that it's all the way to SPRING 2008, so now we have a BIG gap from the 30AC waves 1-8 to FU in Spring 2008.

The answer, as always, is very vague -

"We are rearranging our waves" which waves? - Just 8 & 9 as they mentioned before? Something from 2008? A re-paint/re-hash wave?

Then there's the comment about coins -

"...they are likely to come after we have completed the 60 basic figure coins."

They - FU, or They, the waves you're rearranging?

If they means FU, then there's nine more figures coming with coins in the late 2007/early 2008 time frame.

It's also worth noting that there was a question about a 2007 "continuation" re-paint/re-hash wave, and a vague answer about it being "hazy."

So about the only thing that's clear right now is that without FU there are only 53 figures for the coin series this year.

Lots of ways this can unfold, I'm interested to see how people's perception of the end of 2007 have changed since this answer.

Lots to learn at the upcoming cons!

'78
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on April 4, 2007, 04:33 PM
I usually don't bother with adding Arnie and Marjorie's Star Wars Action News podcast (http://www.swactionnews.com/) to the ol' Q & A compendium (too much of a hassle), but after seeing that they submitted a question about a new Jabba, I was compelled to do a bit of transcribin':

---

What would be the chance of seeing a Jabba the Hutt battle pack? I am thinking something along the lines of re-releasing the Ultra Jabba the Hutt from a few years back complete with hookah. This would be a good opportunity to repack figures like Bib Fortuna, Slave Leia, or any of the various figures that have relevance to Jabba. What would also be nice is a retooling of the dais that could be included in such a battle pack. With a dais, while not necessarily a playset, I think it would lend itself to the diorama type collectors, give us a dais which we have had since vintage days, and could have enough play elements to appeal to kids. Given the price point and the nature of the battle packs, as well as how battle packs have been evolving lately, this is something that seems like a good fit. (SWAN, 3/30/07) (direct link to MP3) (http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN084.MP3)

When, and it's not a matter of if, but of when, in the next couple of years that we do a new Jabba, we'll need to look to the price and format it makes sense in which to deliver him.  It may or may not be the battle pack format that is the one we choose.

---

Now, I'm not a huge fan of how Hasbro has worked the beasts into the battle pack assortment so far (in terms of both execution and price point), but I am glad to see they're attempting something with them, because I think they're potentially laying the groundwork for a new Jabba with Dais battle pack set.  How cool would that be?  Maybe a new Jabba, definitely a new dais, with a few other Jabba-centric characters thrown in for good measure (Oola, Leia, Salacious, Bib, Threepio--take your pick). . .  Put it all in a big battle pack box like the Bantha, add a nice cardboard backdrop, and you'd have one hell of a set.  What a nice presentation that would be--so much better than what we've gotten for the other four Jabbas in the modern line (all in window-less boxes or unattractive blister cards).  Release it next year, to tie it in with Jedi's 25th, price it at $30 (or even $40, maybe), and they'd fly out the door.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CHEWIE on April 4, 2007, 04:57 PM
I agree Matt, that would be a great set.  Thanks for posting this Q&A, and your idea of making it into something similar to the TRU Bantha sounds fantastic.  Maybe they could include a couple of retooled Gamorrean Guards or something with it.

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on April 4, 2007, 05:45 PM
It's all about the presentation.  Like Matt said, you'd be surprised how the right packaging (presentation) can affect sales of the same product.

Just look at the Battle Packs.

(http://www.rebelscum.com/swsaga/sw03ultimatebounty4pkboxfr.jpg)


Night and day difference.

(http://www.rebelscum.com/TAC/tacBPbetrayalonfeluciaboxfr.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: iFett on April 4, 2007, 05:48 PM
It's all about the presentation.  Like Matt said, you'd be surprised how the right packaging (presentation) can affect sales of the same product.

Just look at the Battle Packs.


You've got a point there.  I'm a carded/boxed collector and I skipped every single one of those TRU sets just because they looked so damned lame.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: evenflow on April 4, 2007, 06:18 PM
Thanks for adding the answer from the podcast, i usually dont bother with those either but really wanted to know how they answered the Jabba question. I hope they do Jabba sooner than later and he comes with a dias.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on April 13, 2007, 06:30 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1176503239,17265,)...

- No love for TRU exclusives questions. :(
- More Repacks.  :(
- GH Single Packs = Family Dollar / Big Lots.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on April 14, 2007, 12:33 AM
The Family Dollar/Big Lots thing was interesting.  I don't think I've ever seen a Hasbro SW product at Big Lots (they're like fly **** around Pittsburgh, so are FD's) before. 

Bummer on the other stuff though...  Pretty lame cop-out on the Geonosis pack.  Yes, yes, yes, we know you're going to unveil it (as if pictures won't show up beforehand ::) at C4...  Just answer the friggin' thing, haha.

Just reading through the Q&A round-up (thanks again Matt), and there's a TON of half-answers in this session, lots of skirting the issue on questions, and just a whole lot of nothing...  Plus, more rampant vehicle questions?  And a Battle Star Galactica question too?  Is the Q&A this desperate for new material or what?  Meh...  Just not a ton of good stuff this week in general it seems, plus some duplication doesn't help matters as always.  Blah.

Just didn't seem like an interesting week I guess...  Sucks we got shot down on the battlepack one.  The thing's listed...  don't be a bunch of pussies about it. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: ruiner on April 14, 2007, 03:35 PM
I think the biggest surprise to come out of the latest QNA is the fact that the McDroids are CIV exclusive, meaning they won't be available online.

That's great for the attendees but not so good for the ones who aren't going.

Guess I'll have to resort to ebay...after the hoopla settles down.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on April 27, 2007, 05:31 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1177709286,63523,)...

- No new Vader TIE after all? :(
- How do they paint all these figures?
- Baron Fel = Comic Pack :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jayson on April 27, 2007, 05:40 PM
- No new Vader TIE after all? :(

Someone sure went through a hell of a lot of work for the "fantasy situation" box art then  ::)

Here is a link (http://www.starshipmodeler.com/starwars/ws_darthtie.htm) to the model kit that was used to "misrepresent" what they are truly selling
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Matt on April 28, 2007, 12:03 AM
As this is the 30th Anniversary of Star Wars' release and your line this year is called the "30th Anniversary Collection", now seems the best time to ask this one: what are the chances that we'll be getting a figure of the very first person ever seen in all of Star Wars (that's not a droid), the white-haired Rebel Fleet Trooper who shows worry and then steadies to hold off the Stormtroopers for control of the Tantive IV? For clarification, the Decipher CCG named this guy "Lt. Pello Scrambas" - though nobody seems entirely in love with that name so feel free to NOT use it ;). This would also be a great chance to do a new, better-articulated Rebel Fleet Trooper body. (SSG, 4/27/07) (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=716)

We have not considered doing this figure, but it makes sense for a down-the-road variant of the Rebel Fleet Trooper -- at least for the head. We probably won't update the Rebel Fleet Trooper body for a long time, as it is, it does pretty much everything you could ask of these poor doomed corridor fighters.

Comments, Jesse?   :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jesse James on April 28, 2007, 01:53 AM
They're dumb. 

(;) so they know I'm kidding...  sort of.  I mean, it's a caved in chest, so I don't know what they think.  Answers like this sort of piss on their own outstanding work on figures like the Rebel Honor Guard...  I mean, you want to see what more can be done?  There it is...  So why that answer?  Who knows...  But yeah, they're dumb, but with a ;) so they don't feel bad and/or sad.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Paul on April 28, 2007, 02:29 PM
I'll be less polite about it JJ.....

That is pure bollux.  I am sure they are going to say the Death Star Trooper is the best it can ever be too, so we will be stuck with that one till somebody else gets the license.

Some decent info this time around, but several answers have me SERIOUSLY considering not riding the Hasbro wave until 2018 and just going back to Vintage only collecting...

1.  They think Collector Cases don't sell because the ones they had previously did not sell.  Perhaps it was what was offered...3P0 and Vader heads...I had and still have 4 of the old vinyl cases.  Their logic in that and several answers is flawed or missing.

2.  Ships are important, but the things on the ground/Death Star that shoot at them are NOT..Did hasbro watch any of the movies...anybody remember this line  "I'll worry about the guns, you worry about fighters", "The guns, they've stopped"......seems short sighted.  If they like to reuse molds so much how bout the one from the Vintage Death Star (I think I stole that idea from Chewie  ;)

3.  Gungans are more important than OT Rebels.  Not only are Gungans in the works, but the SAGA Hoth Rebel and POTJ Fleet Trooper are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Good that they don't need to be remade any time soon IF EVER.  Screw that, it boggles the freakin mind.

4.  Neck balls... did they read their own answer?  It is circuitous at best.  There is absolutely no reason not to have 3 or 4 standard sizes all in the same position..for humans especially. Some heads are lurched forward, others are straight up.  I guess it is too hard for them...

There's more, but I lack time...I guess I shouldn't read the Q&A in a bad mood...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Darth Broem on April 29, 2007, 05:32 PM
They're dumb. 

(;) so they know I'm kidding...  sort of.  I mean, it's a caved in chest, so I don't know what they think.  Answers like this sort of piss on their own outstanding work on figures like the Rebel Honor Guard...  I mean, you want to see what more can be done?  There it is...  So why that answer?  Who knows...  But yeah, they're dumb, but with a ;) so they don't feel bad and/or sad.)

LOL!  So true.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on May 11, 2007, 09:23 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1178932469,67754,)...

- 30AC Vader's TIE = huge disappointment  :(
- 30AC 4-LOM - all-new and pretty darn cool  :)
- No CIV Hints for You!   :(


Also, a scheduling note:  The formal Q&A sessions will be taking a small hiatus due to Celebration IV and the Memorial Day holiday.  Look for the Q&A sessions to resume on June 8th

Don't worry though, there should be quite a bit of Q&A goodness from the Hasbro C-IV panel to tide you over!  :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Reid on May 11, 2007, 09:39 PM


- 30AC Vader's TIE = huge disappointment :(



Will it still be the white "Vintage" paintjob, as scene on the box? And when is this bad boy supposed to be released?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on May 11, 2007, 09:50 PM
Will it still be the white "Vintage" paintjob, as scene on the box?

What is shown on the box is not what we are getting.  According to Hasbro it will be the same as the last release, just in a new (crappy, mistake laden) box.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: CorranHorn on May 11, 2007, 11:42 PM
Will it still be the white "Vintage" paintjob, as scene on the box?

What is shown on the box is not what we are getting.  According to Hasbro it will be the same as the last release, just in a new (crappy, mistake laden) box.

If it's like the Sith Infiltrator box, the ship depicted on the Vader TIE box is an artists depiction of the vehicle and not the toy. When you compare the Sith Infiltrator on the box and what you get in the box there are a lot of detail differences. Plus the image on the box has a definite graphic art vibe to it. Doesn't explain the "ejectable wings" starburst (their error mentioned in the Q&A with JD explains that), but that is probably why the vehicles look so different.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 12, 2007, 01:36 AM
It's not white on the box either, it's light grey...  If it were light grey I'd buy it, but anything else is a big and easy pass for me.  I have like 4 Vader's TIE's sitting around here from the clearance days for god's sake.  >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 12, 2007, 12:55 PM
Reading through the round-up reports is so funny.  I think I have a question for Hasbro's next Q and A:
Would Hasbro be willing to sell the license to a company that has money and doesn't cry about cost issues every 2 seconds?  I was under the impression that Hasbro is an industry giant.  I didn't realize you guys were so strapped for cash  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 12, 2007, 02:26 PM
Reading Matt's round-up...

People asked MORE "build-a-thing" questions?  Again?  ::)  And worse...  asking for playsets in this fashion...  again...  You have to be ******** me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: DoctorPadawan on May 13, 2007, 02:23 PM
People asked MORE "build-a-thing" questions?  Again?  ::)  And worse...  asking for playsets in this fashion...  again...  You have to be ******** me.

Well, I guess this rules my question for next week out...

"Would you consider doing a build-a-figure AND build-a-playset series of pack-ins with basic figures that would also include even more extra parts to build a 7" Unleashed or Galactic Heroes vehicle based on the Tonnika Sisters?"

 ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 13, 2007, 02:55 PM
I honestly thought when it went to every other week that things would shape up some with what is asked.  Granted we took a gamble on one of ours, but when you KNOW the answer to what you're asking by just looking it up, I don't get it...  I'm always anxious to see what other sites ask since you never know who's gonna ask the good questions any given week.  You're really starting to get a feel for who isn't though.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 13, 2007, 03:32 PM
I really think some sites are asking certain questions to be facetious, or perhaps thinking that with enough suggestion they can influence some Hasbro decisions.  I've gotten the impression after so many Q and A's that Hasbro really just decides what they want to do, and won't take good ideas from us the collector community.  So at this point, most questions have probably already been asked and are just being repeated until Hasbro gets it through their skulls that "we" want playsets, build-a-figures, etc.  Actually, one BAF idea I thought would work is an astromech one.  Simply utilize the superior astromech torso and legs, and a good R2 head, R5-D4 head, and an R4 head, and paint up a bunch of variations that can be disassembled and placed in waves.  Imagine the trading boards with all of the extra pieces!

On a side note, I'm so intrigued by their response to the 4-LOM question.  I can't wait to get a new version because the only really good thing about the POTF2 version is the rusty paintjob.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sprry75 on May 13, 2007, 03:54 PM
Quote
She's been one of the most consistently-requested figures since the modern line began, she has far more screentime than Dengar and Bossk and IG-88, a prototype of her was even made for the original Kenner line. She was second runner-up in the ToyFare Fan Choice poll by only a small margin, she had more votes than any other movie character in the poll, and the 2 above her in the poll have already been confirmed to be made (as have Darth Malak, Hermi Odle, ROTJ Luke, Mara Jade, Kir Kanos, Clone Commander, Padme Ilum, and Commander Neyo who all got significantly less votes than Yarna, half of those 4 poll-losers there have even already been released). You obviously recognize some level of demand, based on your April Fools-style joke at 2006 San Diego Comic Con. So why is it that you will joke about collectors wanting a Yarna d'al Gargan figure, but have been unwilling in the past to produce this figure and will not confirm that you are committed to releasing this figure in the foreseeable future? (SSG, 5/11/07)

What a royal douche.  The question is, essentially, "why do you tease us?"

SSG = stupid sucky & gay.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on May 13, 2007, 04:21 PM
Hey Darth Spice, is Sandtroopers.com participating in the Q & A this week?

Quote
I guess not, I sent them last Saturday and I admit they should have been sent last Friday but really does a day matter that much? These 3 questions are not the center of our life, or top priority around here but for whatever reason Hasbro was stumped by our 3 questions from a week ago. To top it off we've sent 5 questions the past few times to ensure we wouldn't have this happen again but I guess we were wrong? I've asked the Q n A team for a response but have yet to hear anything back.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on May 13, 2007, 07:05 PM
I'd like to ask Hasbro where the heck all the 30th AC figures are.  I was in about 6 stores since Friday and have seen nothing, anywhere.  It's unAmerican I say.  I have money and I want to spend it!!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on May 13, 2007, 09:13 PM
Quote
She's been one of the most consistently-requested figures since the modern line began, she has far more screentime than Dengar and Bossk and IG-88, a prototype of her was even made for the original Kenner line. She was second runner-up in the ToyFare Fan Choice poll by only a small margin, she had more votes than any other movie character in the poll, and the 2 above her in the poll have already been confirmed to be made (as have Darth Malak, Hermi Odle, ROTJ Luke, Mara Jade, Kir Kanos, Clone Commander, Padme Ilum, and Commander Neyo who all got significantly less votes than Yarna, half of those 4 poll-losers there have even already been released). You obviously recognize some level of demand, based on your April Fools-style joke at 2006 San Diego Comic Con. So why is it that you will joke about collectors wanting a Yarna d'al Gargan figure, but have been unwilling in the past to produce this figure and will not confirm that you are committed to releasing this figure in the foreseeable future? (SSG, 5/11/07)

What a royal douche.  The question is, essentially, "why do you tease us?"

SSG = stupid sucky & gay.

Yeah, that is a rather aggressive "question".   Oh well hopefully they got it off their chest so to speak. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 14, 2007, 01:26 AM
This week's Q&A just seems to be littered with faux pau's throughout though, going back to some of the utterly shite questions asked about old topics on up.  Maybe the crappiest overall week of questions in general between what was asked, and what apparantly "wasn't" asked because, well, the Q&A isn't important enough...  ???   I certainly wouldn't hound them about it if that was the case actually but whatever.

Add to that, that TheJawa had gone belly up at the worst moment and didn't get theirs in...  Man, just a trainwreck for Q&A this week on so many different levels really, from the downright lame to the simply unavoidable, it all just sorta collapsed.  Weird.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 8, 2007, 09:08 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1181351038,10282,)...

- Smuggler Lando = kitbash?
- how much planned re-useability goes into a sculpt?
- Gunner Luke or Chewie planned?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 9, 2007, 01:55 AM
Quote
- Smuggler Lando = kitbash?

Uh, when did Han ever wear poofy sleeved shirts, or bell-bottomed pants?  Methinks Hasbro's figure at C4 was either a really early kitbashed up prototype, or that they just don't know wtf is going on.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on June 9, 2007, 02:00 AM
Didn't they say he had a new upper torso?

Maybe they just thought that the arms were covered in that description.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 9, 2007, 02:15 AM
Said new head, upper torso, and belt...  The rest is Han parts.  I could see them clumping the arms in with the torso I guess, but that's really confusing on their part to word it that way since arms and torsos are different things...  Maybe the Lando at C4 is getting less poofy arms and those were just stand-ins?  I didn't recall Lando's smuggler duds being so billowy but I liked the look of the figure... 

The pants too are clearly not Han's.  They're over the shoes, not tucked, so I dunno what's up with their answer but they're not making things much clearer. :)

(http://www.jedidefender.com/gallery/files/gallery/Conventions/Celebration_IV/Hasbro/CIV_Hasbro_036.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on June 9, 2007, 12:56 PM
I think it's just Hasbro not knowing what the heck is happening. I clearly see a VOTC Lando repaint (with a holster) in that pic.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JangoTat on June 9, 2007, 12:58 PM
I think it's just Hasbro not knowing what the heck is happening. I clearly see a VOTC Lando repaint (with a holster) in that pic.

looks like it only has a new torso...and a holster.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on June 9, 2007, 02:50 PM
(http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/5831/landosmugglerxr8.jpg)(http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/9964/landovotc2oq8.jpg)

I'd say--obviously a new head.  Definitely the VOTC arms and hands.  Probably almost definitely the VOTC legs and feet (although it's too dark to tell for sure).  I can't tell what's going on with the big-ass belt.  I'm guessing it's still there, but it's painted the same color as the pants, and it's covered up by the holster, so I can't say for certain.  But even on the torso, it looks like some of the folds in the shirt look the same.  Could they just have retooled the collar by itself?  I don't know how that works.

Anyway, on this sample, I don't see any reused Han parts, with the exception of maybe the vest and holster.

Maybe the Lando at C4 is getting less poofy arms and those were just stand-ins?  I didn't recall Lando's smuggler duds being so billowy but I liked the look of the figure...

I went through all of the Lando Smuggler shots, frame-by-frame, Zapruder-style, while looking to make a screencap a few months ago, and while I didn't get one of his sleeves, they were definitely more like Han's, and less like Jerry Seinfeld's puffy shirt's.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on June 9, 2007, 04:51 PM
Honestly I think we are plain lucky to they even bothered with this Lando at all.  It looks fairly decent for what it is. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 11, 2007, 03:09 AM
They can change the collar Matt, actually... 

I popped apart a VOTC Lando and it's one of the oddest construction designs of a figure I have seen.  The shirt's collar and neck are actually a single piece that is connected to a strange pin on the shirt.  Almost looks like it was an intentional modular design, but I don't think that's the case.  Just looks like it.

The belt too is a separate piece (his big wrangler jeans belt buckle thing) if I recall...  So that too could be swapped out.

Just saying that we can assume what we see there is what we're getting though, is anyone upset if his sleeves aren't technically right?  The pants are completely debateable as I don't believe any production shot of Lando in that outfit exists, or has been show by LFL if it does exist...  But the shirt I thought you could see in the movie at least briefly.  So, if the shirt is Han all the way and not Senfeld's pirate shirt, but we get a figure with Seinfeld shirt, does that bother anyone?  Honestly I almost like the way that figure looks so much that I won't mind.  Maybe that's 100% my lack of interest in a smuggler Lando figure in the first place though.  Inaccuracy is annoying to me usually, just not in this case for some reason...  not as much anyway.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on June 12, 2007, 05:14 PM
So did we get cofirmation in the Q&A that we will get 2 imperial Officers in 1 Comic Pack?

When developing new sculpts in the basic figure line, does the possibility of future repaints and or battlepack releases factor into whether a figure is greenlit? (TJ, 6/08/07)

Sometimes we do take this into account, for instance when we develop Jedi bodies that can be used for future figures who may not command a total resculpt, or especially for figures like Juno Eclipse, whose body ushered in a new opportunity for female Empire officers, starting with the upcoming comic pack featuring Luke and Deena Shan in imperial disguise.  In this case, the re-use of the figure will actually beat the original to market, as did the Mace Windu Squadron Airborne Trooper and the Order 66 Galactic Marine.  Funny how that works sometimes...


Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on June 12, 2007, 10:20 PM
Honestly I think we are plain lucky to they even bothered with this Lando at all.  It looks fairly decent for what it is. 

I have to agree.  I think this looks like a damn fine figure!

 :P

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 13, 2007, 12:05 AM
So did we get cofirmation in the Q&A that we will get 2 imperial Officers in 1 Comic Pack?

"Lieutenant Jundlund & Lieutenant Shan" were on the comic pack rumor list for a while now, but I'd say "yes" that this is a confirmation of the set. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 13, 2007, 01:33 AM
I'm game for that, I just hope the Luke is more than a Luke head on a Jerjerrod body...  know what I mean?  It's kind of an action-ish outfit Luke wears, so I'm really hopeful for a poseable Impy Officer body there. :)

And I'm still curious about the Stormtrooper disguised figures that got rumroed a short while ago too...  The Duros and I thought the aged Clone.  Or am I imagining that comic pack rumor?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on June 13, 2007, 02:20 AM
It's still up for preorder...

http://www.r2dtoys.com/store/store.pl?action=comingsoon&id=2596

If that's worth anything!

 :P

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on June 13, 2007, 09:33 AM
Ok I composited the two Lando pics to be about the same size. I also lightened up the smuggler pic so you can see things more clearly. The sleeves are not really grey on the lando, but I had to keep close to the original contrast of color so you can see the folds. If I didn't then the lightening of the pic would have blown out the color and you wouldn't be able to tell.

Anyway in the pic you can clearly see that it's the complete Lando VOTC body. Arms, torso, waist (including the belt, which has now been painted to match the pants), legs, and feet.

So indeed it is only the collar and the head that are different to this sculpt. Of course the paint job on the rest of the Lando now reflects the smuggler outfit better.

Not excited about this fig, but it has it's merits over my custom in the articulation, so I'll prolly get it.

(http://www.geocities.com/swsalerno/landosmuggler-VOTC_comp.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on June 13, 2007, 09:35 AM
I was listening to this week's Star Wars Action News podcast, and they went over their three questions for the week.  One question asked about the AT-TE, which didn't get a firm answer.  They also asked what style the upcoming Clone Wars figures would be in (for next year's animated series) - realistic or animated - and Hasbro said it hadn't been determined yet.  The vehicles will likely be in the regular style though, as they can utilize previous toolings then (meaning, repaints :P).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on June 13, 2007, 11:56 AM
I hope they're not animated - I'm not buying any more animated style things.



Or maybe I should hope they're animated, so I can save a small fortune.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on June 13, 2007, 12:07 PM
Animated = Pegwarmers... if they do that whole line in the Animated style, it's doomed.  EASY pass for me if that's the case.

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on June 13, 2007, 12:57 PM
I think I'm on that side of things as well.  I did like the original animated style figures as sort of a "small subset" type of thing, but with this new, larger, ongoing Clone Wars series, I would just as soon see them in the realistic/movie style.  If they are worried about kids, I think they still know which figure is Anakin, Obi-Wan, etc. compared to the cartoon.  Hopefully it will be a realistic style.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: I Am Sith on June 13, 2007, 01:17 PM
Or maybe I should hope they're animated, so I can save a small fortune.

I'm with you Rob, I really could use a break for a while with the amount I'm spending.  This year has been the worst yet and I could use some time off.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on June 13, 2007, 01:22 PM
I loved the animated style so i vote for both ways  :o
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on June 14, 2007, 10:31 AM
I was reading through RS's Q and A answers (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_31st_AND_32nd_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_106730.asp), and it sounds like the TAC line look will go until Spring of 2008, similar to what we saw this year with TSC.  They say there won't be a substantial package change until the Fall, when the Clone Wars series debuts.  It sounds like we might not be seeing coins in 08, but the packaging will be the same for much of the year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on June 14, 2007, 03:21 PM
I was reading through RS's Q and A answers (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_31st_AND_32nd_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_106730.asp), and it sounds like the TAC line look will go until Spring of 2008, similar to what we saw this year with TSC.  They say there won't be a substantial package change until the Fall, when the Clone Wars series debuts.  It sounds like we might not be seeing coins in 08, but the packaging will be the same for much of the year.

So what happens between Spring and Fall?

I am definitely in favor of an animated sub-series like the one from 03-04, but if the whole line were animated, that would be a little lame and sales would definitely drop.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on June 14, 2007, 03:56 PM

So what happens between Spring and Fall?


Shipping of TSC Final 22.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on June 14, 2007, 09:46 PM
So what happens between Spring and Fall?

Summer?

 ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Morgbug on June 14, 2007, 10:58 PM
They also asked what style the upcoming Clone Wars figures would be in (for next year's animated series) - realistic or animated - and Hasbro said it hadn't been determined yet.  The vehicles will likely be in the regular style though, as they can utilize previous toolings then (meaning, repaints :P).

Weren't we told some time ago that they were done with the animated style for Clone Wars figures?  You know, like the crappy Padme they slapped in the box set?  That's the quality standard they're going for?
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on June 19, 2007, 11:09 PM
Looks like a slow week in RI as this week's answers have arrived 3 days early!

The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1182308646,72063,)...

- Hey OT Purists!  Get ready for prequel "vintage" figures: "Vintage line... should be expanded to other movies at some point."  :-X
- Got scratched coins?
- Zuckuss before Dengar ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on June 20, 2007, 03:46 PM
- Zuckuss before Dengar ;)

So now the question is: Will Zuckuss be called 4-LOM on the card, ala Vintage style?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on June 21, 2007, 12:41 AM
- Zuckuss before Dengar ;)

Zuckuss should TOTALLY be remade before Dengar.  The Saga Dengar is a very adequate figure.  It's not up to vintage standards, but it's got some decent articulation and there are some ball joints in there.  Zuckuss has 6 points of articulation if he's lucky and could really stand to be brought up to date with the rest of the bounty hunters.  So in that respect I totally understand and agree with Hasbro's answer.

I think it would be a cool goof if Hasbro did Zuckuss in the vintage line and called it 4-LOM.  I don't know if they'd do it though because it might confuse some people who didn't know about the original vintage mistake.  Oh well.  Whatever.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on July 6, 2007, 05:31 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1183756854,41433,)...

- IG Lancer Droids?
- Just how screwed up are the Saga Legends Battle Droid & Pit Droid Variations?
- Indy IV toy line sneak preview at SDCC!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on July 6, 2007, 07:26 PM
Yeah, it sounded like they might show some Indy figures at SDCC.  I will be looking forward to those pictures.  Assuming they show any. 

How do they lose a mold?  LOL.  Oh well. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 7, 2007, 09:40 AM

How do they lose a mold?  LOL.  Oh well. 

I wonder the same thing. I've had jobs where part of my duties were archiving, I never lost anything.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on July 7, 2007, 10:41 AM
Outside of employee theft, I don't see how they could lose a mold.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on July 7, 2007, 01:10 PM
I've never understood that.  I would think that with a figure that's in existance, they could make a new mold if the old one was lost?

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CorranHorn on July 7, 2007, 01:46 PM
My guess would be that Hasbro destroys the original mold that they use to create the die-cast metal molds to provide to the Chinese factories for production. So they don't have the original mold any longer and so they have to rely on the factory to retain the metal mold. The problem there is that the factory probably has thousands of those types of molds from various customers and if they're not paying close attention one can easily get misplaced (thrown out or placed in a wrong pile) by a poorly paid employee.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 8, 2007, 03:02 AM
I think there's lots of good opinions that all could be why they "lose" a mold for sure.

Theft, poor archiving, destruction, etc., are all very plausible.  I know from some experiences with injection molds overseas that factories do indeed have TONS of molds, sometimes anything from plastic utensils to model kits, in their factories, and they're easily misplaced. 

Consider this...  I live near an operating specialty steel mill...  People walked out for years with TONS of stuff from the mills when I was growing up, and even with security tightened substantially, things still turn up missing...  Mills like that and toy production factories in China aren't too dissimilar I'd wager. 

I'm just playing devil's advocate...  It sounds like Hasbro's trying to pick up the slack on those one way or the other, so I'm not too angry with them...  yet.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on July 8, 2007, 11:32 AM
Oh I understand they could lose something or have it stolen whatever.  However, could they not reproduce something that comes darn close to the mold they lost?  Or is a mold like that super expensive?  I don't know?  I am not up on how a figure is made to be quite honest.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on July 8, 2007, 12:18 PM
Hasbro 'dreads re-releasing Ephant Mon.'  >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on July 10, 2007, 09:30 AM
I've never understood that.  I would think that with a figure that's in existance, they could make a new mold if the old one was lost?

 :P

I'm fairly certain that Hasbro uses a "2" or "4 up" process which means that the master mold is larger (at least twice the size) to maximize detail. From there it's reduced to a production mold. Therefore, if both molds are lost (they should be archived together) a mold struck from a production piece would not be as precise as the original.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on July 10, 2007, 10:06 AM
Hasbro 'dreads re-releasing Ephant Mon.'  >:(

You can get him on eBay for around $10-12 shipped.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on July 20, 2007, 06:21 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1184969596,39849,).

- Can we get a Galactic Heroes Bantha or Rancor?
- Who made up that EE Mystery Pack anyway?
- AT-RT Driver Sculpt?  (obivously, we asked the question before we got the pic yesterday  :P)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on July 20, 2007, 09:02 PM
I have clicked on it a few times and it appears to be an error :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Morgbug on July 20, 2007, 09:20 PM
Tis the same error from the link on the front page as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 20, 2007, 10:13 PM
We are apparently having some front page issues (we had some the other day too unfortunately). 

Hopefully it will be fixed soon, we have top men working on it.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on July 20, 2007, 10:19 PM
Dang, Jayson forgets to send Yak's questions and now THIS?  What is the world coming to?   :-*

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 20, 2007, 10:41 PM
Hopefully it will be fixed soon, we have top men working on it.  ;)

Everything seems to be working again.  Here are the questions & answers just in case though. ;)


1. In your Marvel Heroes line, you guys are doing a few large scaled Marvel characters (Sentinel, Galactus). Is there any chance of carrying the idea over to Star Wars for a Rancor or a Bantha pack in the Galactic Heroes line? Our Galactic Hero Wampa and Taun-Taun need some more friends!

**That's a good idea, and we are looking at how we can keep adding to the creature/vehicle play pattern. While those ideas are not the first ones in the queue, we are hopeful they will get into the mix at some point.


2. The Entertainment Earth "Mystery Pack" has many fans talking. It seems like there is a back story developing with the figures announced thus far. Just who is behind the back story to the "Mystery Pack" figures? Is it Lucasfilm's doing completely (perhaps based on some upcoming or existing EU continuity) or are the creative minds at Hasbro writing up all the background on the figures in the "Mystery Pack"?

**It's a bit of both. Some of the characters are existing (or will exist) from publishing, and some of the characters were proposed by our team and added into the storyline as it came together. To go back in time to the specific point when the idea for the pack began, the starting point was a Star Wars Insider feature a couple years back by Karen Traviss. This story really intrigued us, and provided a jumping in point into a previously unexplored area that became the basis for the sets. More details will be revealed at Comic Con, so stay tuned.


3. Pictures of the upcoming AT-RT Patrol battle pack have surfaced, but it's hard to tell from the picture exactly what we're getting. More specifically, the sculpts on the AT-RT Drivers included in the pack - are they the original AT-RT Driver pack-in figure sculpt or are they based on the basic carded AT-RT Driver sculpt (RotS #54)?

**Details will be revealed next week at Comic Con, but the figure used in this pack is based on the carded figure, and not the reduced-articulation pack-in driver.  
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on July 20, 2007, 10:55 PM
Dang, Jayson forgets to send Yak's questions and now THIS?  What is the world coming to?   :-*

 :P

 :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Morgbug on July 23, 2007, 10:51 AM
Dang, Jayson forgets to send Yak's questions and now THIS?  What is the world coming to?   :-*

 :P

Q. Will Hasbro be making playsets for the 3.75" line?

A. No.

Status quo :-X ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on July 24, 2007, 09:18 AM
Some good questions all around this week...

but proof Hasbro STILL does not have a clue what happens once the product leaves their warehouse:

The Saga Legends figures have been storming the pegs, almost to the point of over-running the new TAC figures. With the huge amount of Saga Legends figures on tap, will this affect how and when we see future waves of the TAC figures? Some stores won't refill their pegs unless they are empty, and if they are filled with Legends figures I can see this affecting how the newer TAC figures are stocked. (JTA, 07/20/07)

They are managed separately, just as the TSC and Greatest Hits lines were managed separately last year.  Replenisment is automated, which means that as one sells down, it will be reordered and shipped out for restock. The two SKUs (87500 and 85770) were created expressly for the purpose of separate inventory management.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

While the intent may be for them to be "managed separately"...in my neck of the woods...they are not managed at all.   The Re-tread Prequel Blight has choked all life from the pegs.  And where re-tread stuff hasn't completely clogged ALL pegs (not just the ones with the Special SKU) the stuff from last year is still hogging as much shelf space as possible.

A thought for the Hasbro bean counters...just because you CAN make twice as many "re-release" figures for the price of a newly sculpted one, doesn't mean you HAVE to....

And this is not meant as a slam on the poor souls who work the aisles.  It is not a job I would want (except to get  new figures faster).

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on July 24, 2007, 09:45 AM
I, for one, will never understand the strategy of shipping last year's TSC product six months into 2007.

I would love for Hasbro to explain this - maybe we could pose that question for the next QNA.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Slothus on July 24, 2007, 10:15 AM
we would never submit that Question though :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on July 24, 2007, 01:27 PM
This is one case where I'm going to have to agree with Hasbro when they say different stuff is happening in different areas because I have seen only one shipment of Saga Legends ever. All of my local stores seem to just keep getting TAC in.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Famine on July 24, 2007, 01:31 PM
This is one case where I'm going to have to agree with Hasbro when they say different stuff is happening in different areas because I have seen only one shipment of Saga Legends ever. All of my local stores seem to just keep getting TAC in.

Agreed, I totally second this. I've seen ONE shipment in all the stores I hit. And it hasn't been restocked to my knowledge. I hit 2 Wal*Marts, a Target, and K-Mart. Occasionally I hit a KB Toys when time permits, and I've seen nothing. I'd like to see some more of the product for custom fodder, but it just isn't happening. I can deal with TAC flooding in because of the SBD's I've been collecting.

Kevin
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Slothus on July 24, 2007, 01:58 PM
Ok, I'll take a third stance and 'just say no' to more refresher crap legends, overdone/shipped Saga and instead send only more TAC now.

DS
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 24, 2007, 02:23 PM
I don't mind legends sometimes, some of them are really desirable figures obviously since the Shocktrooper, battledroids (despite their suckiness), and the AOTC Grunts are all pretty popular.  But Hasbro is indeed out of the loop on this one regardless of their numbers.  This is a prime case of the plan not matching the execution, and Hasbro has its head clearly in the sand on the matter. 

Legends DOES interfere with the basic line...  In WM's case (where I see legends mounting up), it's simply a matter of pegspace, and really relates nothing to the different SKU's.  Without space on the pegs for new basics the Legends line takes over, and it seems to be on WM's heavier shipping list while the basic line gets less.  Why that is, I have no clue, but that is how it seems to be near me.  It happened at certain stores last year with Greatest Hits too...  So it's not new, it just sucks.

About the 06 stuff shipping into 07...  I think I understand Hasbro's logic there.  they're trying to avoid the problems of the past where the "last wave" syndrome took over and people were up in arms over not finding many of the last figures they wanted.

To me, I don't mind the strategy but Hasbro has to fine tune that...  Maybe that's a good question to ask then?  If they've learned how to fine tune things so last year product doesn't overwhelm next year product. 

Obviously I have as much Saga2 stuff as any of you do...  Tons of Jerjerrods, tons of final wave figures (though army builders in general are pretty much gone, thank god), and so on.  I think Saga2 shipments into '07 needed to really cease at a specific point regardless of reordering and Hasbro needed to micromanage that a little better...  It's obviously hurt '07 product, no doubt.  But at the same time I liked that opportunity to buy multiple Kashyyyk troopers, Appo's, and the like.  I didn't get hardly any Wookiee Heavy Gunners in late '05 and that was certainly frustrating to me...  Most I was lucky to see once at K-Mart of all places, and never anywhere else.  So I get the strategy but the execution was bungled.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on July 24, 2007, 04:18 PM
I'm in the crowd who keeps seeing SAGA2 stuff being stocked.  When TAC is stocked, it's usually Wave 1 or 2, with very few concept figures being found.  Several times now when stock has gotten low, I've gone back just to find MORE of the SAGA2 product back on the pegs.

I'm fine with this year's Legends assortment so far because they haven't shipped in high quantities in my area, and because there are some desirable army builders thrown in there.

Did I mention that SAGA2 stuff takes up about 90% of peg space in my area?

 :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on August 3, 2007, 03:28 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1186169010,13586,).

- We need Chewie's family!
- We need removable hats on our Imperials!
- Can we get some "progress reports" on upcoming figures?


* I'd really like to see Chewie's family someday, so I'm glad that they are "not out of the realm of possibility someday." :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on August 3, 2007, 04:19 PM
That is incredible news about the Wookie family. I really hope it is soemthing they eventually release.  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 3, 2007, 05:12 PM
Good news on the Chewie family too from me, I kind of dig them...  As annoying as that kid was.

I would liked to have seen more positive answer on getting inside looks at figures in development.  I liked getting the images from the Luke Skywalker so it's disappointing that they basically won't be doing that too much.  The design drawings are really neat to see a while prior to the figure's unveiling I think.

The Imp. Officer hat question's got some possible positive-ness to it...  They're doing it with the Luke in the Empire Comic pack, so maybe that's the start of another positive trend in improvement towards Imperials?  I'd have loved a black kepi hat with the Death Star Trooper we got this year...  Would've made him a much cooler army builder.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on August 31, 2007, 04:26 PM
Ok, can we get a follow up question on this one.
By my count the coin holder only has 80 spots, not 90.

If it had 90, it would not be a problem to get the UGH coins in there.


3. Now that your 2007 30th Anniversary plans are almost all set, can we get a final count on how many unique coins there will be (counting all the exclusive and convention coins)? Will we have enough slots in our albums to hold them all?

** It's tight but it works, but here's how it breaks down, if one had all the available coins: 60 basic figure coins; 7 Saga Legends; 4 Convention gieaways (CIV, Celebration Europe, and Comic Con, plus bonus Indiana Jones IV gold coin); 5 Convention exclusives (2 McQ Luke, 2 McQ R2/3-PO, 1 McQ Obi-Wan/Yoda), 12 UGH variants, and 7 Vintage coins including the Toy Fair coin. Excluding the latter set (which has it's own folder), it totals 88 coins for 90 spaces. Tight, but manageable!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on August 31, 2007, 04:30 PM
Man, you're fast!

Anyway, yeah - the new Q&A session (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1188591687,74823,) has been posted.

And yeah, they totally biffed the answer to that coin question since there are only 80 spaces in the album.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on August 31, 2007, 05:27 PM
Just a quick question for the readers of the Q & A Compendium:

Do you guys prefer the black text for Hasbro's responses, or the white?  Which one is easier to read?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on August 31, 2007, 05:50 PM
I like the white letters.  Easier for old folks like me to read...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on August 31, 2007, 07:35 PM
About Hasbro's answer for they're coin totals. It doesn't count the SWshop Exclusive Concept Grievous coin either. So it's 89 coins then.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mikey D on August 31, 2007, 08:09 PM
I like the white letters. 

I concur...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 1, 2007, 09:26 AM
If it helps make a decision, white is fine by me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on September 7, 2007, 10:46 AM
Okay, I went back and changed the black to white.  Thanks for the feedback.

Also added Q & As from six other sites, so check that out if you want.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 14, 2007, 06:17 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1189808094,75353,).

- Yes, stands will be back in 2008.
- Landspeeder re-release?
- SA Hoth Rebel's hat?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 15, 2007, 02:39 AM
I'm kinda disappointed in the stands.  I liked the coins, but that's me...  The Pack-in is irrelevant ultimately so whatever, as long as prices don't go up.  Bummed on the Hoth Rebel answer slightly...  Was hoping for more info there.

In other Q&A news though, GalacticHunter asked a doozey about playsets and seemingly Sideshow spilled the beans that Hasbro's in talks with them about doing 3.75"-ish scaled playsets/environments for the figures.  That's promising for the playset camp of course, but in terms of cost I cannot imagine they'll be cheap unless they're produced in a fairly efficient manner and lack complexity.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 15, 2007, 09:06 AM
Bummed on the Hoth Rebel answer slightly...  Was hoping for more info there.

Me too. That's a figure that should have been in development.

One of the RS questions revealed Hasbro's plans to cut back on figure production by 8. That means we'll be going down from 60 to 52. Big whoop. 52 is still a crap load for one year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on September 15, 2007, 11:42 AM
I'm kinda disappointed in the stands.  I liked the coins, but that's me...  The Pack-in is irrelevant ultimately so whatever, as long as prices don't go up.  Bummed on the Hoth Rebel answer slightly...  Was hoping for more info there.

In other Q&A news though, GalacticHunter asked a doozey about playsets and seemingly Sideshow spilled the beans that Hasbro's in talks with them about doing 3.75"-ish scaled playsets/environments for the figures.  That's promising for the playset camp of course, but in terms of cost I cannot imagine they'll be cheap unless they're produced in a fairly efficient manner and lack complexity.

Given the cost of SSC's 12 inch figs, I'm NOT lloking forward to their pricing for playsets. And you just know it's going to be a mad freakin' rush for them to and they'll all be exclusive. SSC while doing decent work is one of the last I would want to do playsets. Based almost entirely on the exclusive crap (then the expected high price second). Just make ONE kind of set-not one that has an exclusive piece then another that doesn't.

That's going to piss me off to no end.

While some will say, I should be glad that there is even hope that playsets will be made, to me, not at the cost of being able to get them redily or having to pay through the nose for them.

I sure as hell hope they consider modular pieces, non exclusives and make them in decent numbers.

Playsets MUST be retail things, NOT internet sales. Kids must get a chacne at these too (meaning their parents to buy them for them). Having sales of playsets just through the internet would be a travesty to the youngin's as well as the many of fans who do not or WILL not buy from the net.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on September 15, 2007, 03:58 PM
I can't see how Hasbro will agree to retail sell these rumored playsets, though, considering their standard response about not selling well and the fact that Sideshow is an internet retailer.  Being a diorama-builder, I'm not too keen on the prospect of playsets since I feel they may eclipse my efforts (mostly worried about accuracy).  If there are set pieces, though, I'd be happier- things like Moisture Vaporators and cantina tables, etc.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on September 15, 2007, 07:12 PM
Well retailers would charge an arm and a leg for playsets anyway.  If Hasbro put out a decent Death Star playset it would probably be something like $75-$125 at retail I would guess.  Not sure if Sideshow would be all that much higher or not?  Yeah, I know they would be higher than Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, etc that is a given.  But just how much more?  Plus, you know retailers would crap their pants if the sets stuck around on the shelves and then that would be the end of playsets at retail anyway.  So, maybe selling them on the net is the only way to go in the end? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on September 16, 2007, 01:55 AM
Hasbro's considering some means to bring out playsets?

Maybe creating wishlists and asking Hasbro about playsets a few times in the Q&A's wasn't such a burden on the community after all.

If this comes to fruition, and regarding through which avenue they are sold, can't we just be happy that this might actually be happening rather than already finding something to complain about?

Anyways, as a fan of quality, I'd much rather see Sideshow do playsets than Hasbro.  We've already seen how poorly Hasbro executes them.  Hopefully we'll see Sideshow make something like THIS (http://www.yakface.com/toyguide/dioramas/chewie/021207owen.jpg) or any number of the custom playsets you can look up at www.owenscustoms.com
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 16, 2007, 11:33 AM
can't we just be happy that this might actually be happening rather than already finding something to complain about?

Sorry, that's not how the internet works.  Everyone knows that as soon as something is announced (playsets, Willrow Hood, whatever), at least 50% of the collectors will find some reason to hate it - price, exclusivity, articulation, accessories - it can be anything.

Half will say "Yay!  Our hours of complaining on the internet were heard" while half will say "They cost too much" or "They are too hard to get".

Just the way it has always been... and no doubt the way it will always be.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on September 16, 2007, 01:29 PM
Hasbro's considering some means to bring out playsets?

Maybe creating wishlists and asking Hasbro about playsets a few times in the Q&A's wasn't such a burden on the community after all.

If this comes to fruition, and regarding through which avenue they are sold, can't we just be happy that this might actually be happening rather than already finding something to complain about?

Ordinarily I'm the cheerleader with the big smile and pom-poms, but seeing what Sideshow charges for its current environments ($80 for the Space Worm cave from ESB), and how the Retrobilia Pride Displays worked out (clearance for $60 plastic environments) I have to say that I think Hasbro is probably smart to pass the buck to another company so they don't get burned. 

Given Sideshow doesn't really make its product widely available in stores and they price things for the kind of collector that a lot of us aren't-- which is to say, the kind that balk at $17 figures-- I can't say I'd be optimistic about a toy category being farmed out to the makers of some of the most authentic and expensive collectibles available today.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on September 16, 2007, 03:58 PM
I think its pretty cool they considered doing Uzay figures, just upset with the outcome of their discussions. I would love to get a Blue STars and Headman figure. I guess Medicom is still the only hope for those.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on September 16, 2007, 04:38 PM
Well, the Pride Displays were a nice concept Adam, but priced at what they were for something that was nothing more than a shelf is why they bombed.  There was no movie accuracy with those.  I do agree that Hasbro is wise to farm this out to another company, as we know that if Hasbro were to attempt something like this, they'd bomb.  They don't seem to realize that with these sort of items people want movie accuracy and should be targeting adult collectors, which is the only way I can ever see something like this being successful.

With what Sideshow might be doing here, I'm going to be optimistic and will not dismiss what they are doing without seeing a single pic.  Regarding the price, if something is around $100-$200, and it's well done, count me in.  I understand that's not for everyone, but even given the many dollars I've already spent on some very nice custom playsets, I'm still not going to complain even if Sideshow tops some of the items that I've bought.  I say kudos to Sideshow if they are going to try and capitalize on the market.  $17.00 figures is extreme like you said, but comparing the possibilty of Sideshow playsets to the Hasbro $5-$7 price point on figures versue $17 exclusives is like comparing apples to oranges.  It almost sounds as if you think that companies like Sideshow are a failure because they aren't as big as Hasbro and market their product differently.

Anyways, like Jeff said, I'm sure some people are going to find something to whine about if these do come out, even if they are awesome. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 16, 2007, 05:35 PM
Awesome + outrageously cost prohibitive for most Collectors = logical reason to "whine", at least the last time I looked.  It's all about your reasoning.  I don't think Jeff was exactly trashing the people who cite a complaint with a reason behind it there...  That's the actual nature of discussion.  Some won't like price, some won't like articulation, some won't like pack-in or whatever other reason...  And some do like it completely.  It's a mix.

I want a full suit of Stormtrooper armor to put on display...  But not at the price people want for said armor on the interwebs.  That is my fear with these.  SS has it in their power to do something nice for a nice price, without a doubt, but the question is; will they do it with the playsets, or will it be something most people get stickershock from? 

I don't know what my threshold will be on these if they happen...  For me, I would have to see first what kind of quality we're getting (separate piece counts, size, decoration/detailing, etc., etc.), then the price that accompanies it...  Will it include moving parts like doors or whatnot?

Then at some point there's just a lot of crap I can't afford (or justify even if I can afford it).  I loves me some FX Sabers, but I buy them cheap only.  If these are $200 sets, regardless of how great they may be, I doubt I'd commit on them... 

Lot of variables for me.  I'm interested...  Intrigued...  But I'm by no means "thrilled"...  yet.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on September 16, 2007, 05:49 PM
For me, I would have to see first what kind of quality we're getting (separate piece counts, size, decoration/detailing, etc., etc.), then the price that accompanies it... 


And that is what we should all be waiting for. 

There's a lot of things I'd like to have to, beyond Star Wars collecting.  But we have to set limits on ourselves.   ;D

 :P

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on September 17, 2007, 09:10 AM
This is definitely interesting news, and if nothing else, it shows that playsets are indeed on Hasbro's radar.  We'll have to see how this turns out.  Like some others though, price will be an issue for me, regardless of how spiffy they turn out.  I just don't have the budget for the higher priced stuff.  It also depends how they are done (modular?), and how many we get each year.  I mean, if the only "big" set for the year was a Death Star playset/environment, and I had a year to save up for it, that would help.  Really though, like its been mentioned, its hard to comment too much because we really don't know what these will be.  And, with Sideshow, I do hope they aren't impossible to get.  I've only gotten one of their 12" figures, so I can't complain, but I don't want to have to sit at the computer for a specific 5 minute time period on a certain day to be able to have the opportunity to preorder the playset that I want.  Hopefully it will be easier than that too.  Anyways, good news that playsets are at least being discussed.
Title: Re: SWShop Concept General Grievous
Post by: JediJman on September 17, 2007, 10:58 AM

FYI if you read Hasbro Q&A they will not be doing any Vinatge figures..there goes a really great Dengar to round out the bounty hunters.

They are done with the vintage line for good?  Where was this posted?  ???
Title: Re: SWShop Concept General Grievous
Post by: Jeff on September 17, 2007, 11:12 AM
Hasbro is not done with the Vintage line for good.

All they have confirmed is that 2008 will be like 2005 in that they will be doing the Evolution sets instead of a "Vintage" wave.

From Q&A sessions over the last few weeks:

"We like the Vintage figures, and can say for certain only that there will be more vintage at some point but don't have any details... We just need to figure out where it makes sense to plan for the next wave when we have an opportunity."

"We don't have any concrete answers yet on the future of Vintage... There is no set date for when we'll see the next wave - right now, Evolutions is our premium-format focus for next year."

"There will not be another vintage-style line in 2008, because we are dedicating those resources and tool budget toward developing the Evolutions reintroduction. We certainly hope to pick up vintage further down the road, and the polls we conducted recently have informed our thinking for when we do bring it back out."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on September 17, 2007, 01:48 PM
can't we just be happy that this might actually be happening rather than already finding something to complain about?

Sorry, that's not how the internet works.  Everyone knows that as soon as something is announced (playsets, Willrow Hood, whatever), at least 50% of the collectors will find some reason to hate it - price, exclusivity, articulation, accessories - it can be anything.

Half will say "Yay!  Our hours of complaining on the internet were heard" while half will say "They cost too much" or "They are too hard to get".

Just the way it has always been... and no doubt the way it will always be.

Yeah, sorry Jeff and Chewie. Really I'd be happy if playsets get made, but it really does matter to who does them and how muych they will cost. Looking at Adam's post...

Hasbro's considering some means to bring out playsets?

Maybe creating wishlists and asking Hasbro about playsets a few times in the Q&A's wasn't such a burden on the community after all.

If this comes to fruition, and regarding through which avenue they are sold, can't we just be happy that this might actually be happening rather than already finding something to complain about?

Ordinarily I'm the cheerleader with the big smile and pom-poms, but seeing what Sideshow charges for its current environments ($80 for the Space Worm cave from ESB), and how the Retrobilia Pride Displays worked out (clearance for $60 plastic environments) I have to say that I think Hasbro is probably smart to pass the buck to another company so they don't get burned. 

Given Sideshow doesn't really make its product widely available in stores and they price things for the kind of collector that a lot of us aren't-- which is to say, the kind that balk at $17 figures-- I can't say I'd be optimistic about a toy category being farmed out to the makers of some of the most authentic and expensive collectibles available today.

He's right. Sideshow does some nice work, but their limited releases of "playsets" are already priced out of the market for the average collector/kid/parent.

I honestly believe we need to see these at retail for them to succeed and for us to have any chance at getting the many different sets we'd like to see.

For the sake of it, I'll also "argue" the point of why Hasbro should not make the playsets.
It's obvious with just a little browsing on several mamjor collecting sites that people are more than displeased with Hasbro's efforts in playsets. Most feel playsets should be more  detailed, movie accurate. That's something Hasbro just can't do for the price most of us want to pay for them.

No doubts SSC can do and awesome job of detail, but the cost factor most likely, given what they've already manufactired and released is going to keep this subline from being a runaway success.

So the key to this is do we want TOY playsets that cost less and would be less detailed, yet available to everyone, OR do we want highly detailed sets at high prices that will take much longer to afford and collect for the average collector, with hardly any kid/parent support in the way of dollars spent?

Personaly I'd rather them be toy sets. I can add to them as I want.
I want these to be affordable and available to anyone who wants them for a reasonable price for the average consumer, not just collector.

I'll reserve judgement fully on SSC's efforts to make playsets, until we've seen them and know their pricepoints, however, I'm not overly optimistic that they can achieve what the market as a whole desires.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on September 17, 2007, 05:31 PM
Weird that they'd let Medicom do Uzay figures but not Hasbro...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on September 17, 2007, 05:58 PM
<snip>

With what Sideshow might be doing here, I'm going to be optimistic and will not dismiss what they are doing without seeing a single pic.  Regarding the price, if something is around $100-$200, and it's well done, count me in.  I understand that's not for everyone, but even given the many dollars I've already spent on some very nice custom playsets, I'm still not going to complain even if Sideshow tops some of the items that I've bought.  I say kudos to Sideshow if they are going to try and capitalize on the market.  $17.00 figures is extreme like you said, but comparing the possibilty of Sideshow playsets to the Hasbro $5-$7 price point on figures versue $17 exclusives is like comparing apples to oranges.  It almost sounds as if you think that companies like Sideshow are a failure because they aren't as big as Hasbro and market their product differently.

Anyways, like Jeff said, I'm sure some people are going to find something to whine about if these do come out, even if they are awesome. 

No, I just don't like high-end stuff.  I'm a low-end collector, as I presume a great many action figure fans are.   Yes, a $17 figure is not a Sideshow item, but if people are going to complain about a $17 action figure, and figure-scale playsets are compatible products being sold to a similar audience, seeing an item go for four to five times what a customer might expect could mean it's not necessarily unpopular... it's just seeing its audience getting more selective.

Based on their other diorama pieces, I don't have high hopes unless they aim to go back to the mass market like they did when they started selling stuff in Targets many moons ago.  The $80 space slug doesn't sit well with me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on September 17, 2007, 07:19 PM
I see what you're saying Adam.  I guess I'm just thrilled that something could be happening on the playset front.  Maybe we'll see Sideshow go with a pricepoint of $50-$75 for some modular sections, I don't know.  But modular seems to make the most sense since like you are saying, a lot of people won't want to fork over a ton of dough for these things.  Maybe for the more casual opener/etc., they'll be willing to spend $50.00 on something if it's a decent piece.  I'm definitely hoping for modular sections when doable, because a $200 or higher playset will sting for a lot of us including myself (but I'd pay it).

For example, take the Carbon Freeze playset that Hasbro made in the POTJ era. Not bad for $20 - $25, but I'd think that Sideshow could make something of comparable size for around $50.00 that was a lot more detailed (not saying that a properly done Carbon Freeze Chamber could be done for under $150.00 though).  But hopefully what I'm trying to say comes across right - say for example this room by Owen D - I use Owen's dioramas for reference all of the time because not only have I commissioned many pieces from him and seen first hand the quality of work, but also since I don't know of anyone else who has made so many examples like this -

(http://www.owenscustoms.com/rejuvenationchamberN.JPG)

I'd think that something like that, similar to the Carbon Chamber in size, could be made by a company like Sideshow for a fair price tag.  More expensive than Hasbro, but at the same time, looking more film accurate than something we typically see from Hasbro on the playset/diorama front.

Anyways, jedi_master_sal , I didn't mean to point any fingers at you in my little rant.  But I do think that something from Sideshow would be better than nothing at all... ideally we'd see maybe a mix of offerings, some from Sideshow that are more niched towards the collectors, while Hasbro could release a few more pieces for the kids/more casual collectors. 

But I definitely think there's a good enough size market for these sort of things.  If Sideshow and other companies can consistently sell more high scale items such as statues, props, etc, then I see no reason why high scaled playsets wouldn't see as well if marketed towards the right niche in the market, as the 3-3/4" line is still the bread and butter of Star Wars collecting. 

I know there's people that disagree with me on this, but I do think that at some point we are going to see something like this come to fruition. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on September 28, 2007, 06:33 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1191018191,22685,).

- "no comment" on any recall-related price increases in 2008
- future TIE upgrades?
- More Wookiees in 2008?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 29, 2007, 02:30 AM
Good news on the Wookiee figure(s), IMO.  I really believe that's a great figure that was overlooked for re-release in 2007, so I'll take more if they change up the paint aps on him.  I'd like some dark (black furred?) Wookiees, maybe a  little striping on a brown one?  Love that figure...  Bummed that the head isn't getting resculpted though.

Would like to see a smaller size sculpt at some point too, but equally articulated.  The basic line Wookiee was a disappointment to me, and not as appealing then to army build despite the 3 color variants on him. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on September 29, 2007, 03:02 AM
I was reading through JTA's Q&A roundup (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=1457.0) and noticed a disturbing trend in this week's Q&A.  One question predictably wound up being submitted from a number of sites.  That was about the Battle of Hoth Ultra Battle Pack, and it was answered with a resounding series of "No comments" from Hasbro.

But the other thing that was REALLY annoying?  Apparently one forum user at Jedi Insider, Rebelscum and Sandtroopers wound up having the EXACT SAME QUESTION submitted by ALL THREE SITES.  The wording in the question is pretty much identical from all three of those sites.  It's bordering on ridiculous.  It certainly begs the question that perhaps the collecting sites should pool their resources and collaborate on who asks what in a given week.  But given the competitive nature of the news people at the sites that are involved in the process it's very unlikely to happen.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on September 29, 2007, 09:14 AM
Yeah i agree about the same questions being asked. Sucks becuase it gets us less answers.

I am pretty happy with this answer from SW Collector:


"QUESTION:  With a new Max Rebo Band set coming out, could we finally be close to getting a figure of Jabba's palace dancer Yarna del' Gargan?

ANSWER:  She's on the short list of ones we would like to do next, but we have not confirmed so. Hopefully by 2009."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sprry75 on September 29, 2007, 10:32 PM
The redundant questions did, as did the Target "no comments."

Although, reading a bit between the lines, I got the impression that the Hoth battle pack we've seen is taking the Holiday exclusive place of last year's Imperial Shuttle.  Similar price point, similar cool repack concept.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on September 30, 2007, 12:58 AM
Quote
Yeah i agree about the same questions being asked. Sucks becuase it gets us less answers.
I noticed that too, but really, it seems as though there isn't much left to ask.  I mean, every time I read the round up reports, most questions are about whether Hasbro will do something requested, and they always say thanks for the suggestion and it's on the short list of things to do, or maybe in 2009.  Fact is, they do what they want, and are rarely influenced by collector questions or requests.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 30, 2007, 01:46 AM
I agree and disagree...

I think there's a certain trick to getting the information you want.  Look at our question on the Preview Wookiee for instance.  It wasn't going out on a limb really by many people's standards in questioning Hasbro, but at the same time it got some "teaser" info to us about 2008 too...  Wookiee's are coming in some form, and it's the preview sculpt (unaltered unfortunately).

I think they mix up the answers some when they want to and when it's a question not everyone's looking for answers to (or thought of to ask).  Otherwise you get the Cookie Cutter answers like "it's on the short list", and "soon but not now".

I hate the redundancy too...  JD was the first site to ask about a resculpted Speederbike, and at the time Hasbro replied that it was a good idea and they liked the concept of a "stand" to simulate it floating.  Since then I know I've seen the same friggin' question from other sites asked, right down to the stand (which I don't know if it's just copying ideas for the sake of sounding like you asked it "first" or if it's just genuine coincidence).  That's a waste.

The Rebel Trooper question that was in this week was a waste too...  Been there, asked that, got the same answer basically. 

Redundancy is avoidable by all sites on their own really, but I think not every site is really focused on avoiding it, and sometimes even if you are things slip through (IE: ****/mistakes happen).  Usually as new news/rumors come up though, new, good questions do as well.  That's a positive for sure...  The Hoth pack thing was an inevitable cluster of questions from sites though, so some sites saw fit to avoid it.  :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediMAC on September 30, 2007, 05:15 AM
Good news on the Wookiee figure(s), IMO.  I really believe that's a great figure that was overlooked for re-release in 2007...

The Sneak Preview Wookiee Warrior was possibly the biggest pegwarmer of the year after it hit shelves.  In fact, I'm pretty sure there's still a few of them hanging at some of our local stores to this day.  The re-release they did of it in one of those VHTF final ROTS waves even hung for quite some time around here.  Frightening to think Hasbro is contemplating re-releasing that thing, especially without a resculpt.  More pegwarming glut, no doubt.  I'm sure I could still dig a few up at some of our KBs and WMs if anyone is that desperate for some more.  Just LMK...

As for the questions in general, yeah, after 39 sessions there's bound to be very little that hasn't been posed to Hasbro already (like Greg just mentioned).  With that in mind, it makes perfect sense that many sites would submit a question regarding the hot topic of the week in the Hoth BP.  I certainly don't fault them for that, nor do I take issue with them not knowing that other sites received the same question (possibly from the same person).  I hope we're not suggesting that asking a question on the hottest new topic from the previous couple weeks is stupid, or potentially repetitive.  I'm sure there's going to be a few questions about the final outcome in the Legends voting this upcoming session, which I'm looking forward to reading.  I hope we wouldn't nix any potential questions on the matter here at JD simply because it's "too popular" a topic, and will likely be covered by the other sites...

I would also imagine that after 39 sessions with 15 or so different sites, not every site is going to have such a keen recollection as JD does (thanks MB) as to what's already been asked before (especially some of the newer sites), so duplicate questions are bound to occur from time to time.  I don't mind a repetitive question here and there if it further drives a valid point at Hasbro (like SA Rebel Troopers, Bespin Cloud Cars, playsets, floating Speederbikes, etc.)

I think some of the expectations around here are a tad too high regarding these Q & A sessions at this point.  We should just be thankful that Hasbro's even still doing them, and that they're allowing every last SW collecting site to participate, even if it affords us only a minor tease or two every couple weeks.  I guess at this late juncture, I look at the Q & A's as more of a vehicle to offer our thoughts, suggestions and feedback to Hasbro, as opposed to something that's supposed to give us some definitive answers on what's upcoming from them.  Seems most people view it as the latter, which is pretty fruitless most weeks.  I think the more constructive use of the Q & A would be the former, but I guess I'm in the minority with that view.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on September 30, 2007, 10:31 AM
Yeah, I should rephrase in that I think collector sites DO have some manner of influence on future product with enough repetitive type questions or general comments.  If enough sites mention the desire for a new cloud car or rebel soldiers, Hasbro is bound to consider those things more than if they never read such requests/questions.  But I think the production team basically picks a line-up of figures for future assortments that they think will sell, and whenever we ask about the likelihood of a character being made, we get the standard answer: something along the lines of short list, get to it eventually, or not in 2008.  Gee, thanks Hasbro- I realize we'll get it eventually  ;D

I like what J-Mac said about the Q and A, though- we really are fortunate to have a regular interaction with a toy manufacturer.  I'm not of the type that thinks Hasbro is above its consumer or anything, but this is so different from the old days when the consumer was never involved at all except with their dollars in the store.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: DoctorPadawan on September 30, 2007, 07:31 PM
Just wanted to point out something regarding Hasbro's mantra of "No Comment" on the Hoth set in any way, shape, or form:  They utilized the exact same tactics and wording last year in relation to the Imperial Shuttle, sometimes seemingly to the point of denying its existence until it actually hit.  Given their tactics last year, I'd be willing to bet that the Hoth Ultimate Battle Pack is the *exact* same situation as the Shuttle in terms of the when, where, and most specifically, the fact that Hasbro isn't going to answer any more questions about it. 

So, um, yeah, some other sites that will remain nameless: DON'T ASK ANY MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HOTH SET, okay?  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 1, 2007, 01:37 AM
Quote
The re-release they did of it in one of those VHTF final ROTS waves even hung for quite some time around here.

Must've been like the gluts of Y-Wings and Tatooine Skiffs that some wrote about, and how they "clearanced", while the rest of the country did without. ;)  I don't think everyone was nearly as lucky to have the glut of HTF figures like that.  I, at least, can speak for my neck of the woods on the Wookiee repaint...  Very uncommon and still fetches a decent price at shows (unfortunately).

The preview sculpt was a good figure that sold decently well with a Legends/Battles re-release, even with a very heavy distribution of the Preview figure initially...  To me, that's a figure that's begging to get re-released since he made his run through already, especially if it's new paintjobs.  The headsculpt changes (or lack thereof in this case) are a disappointment though, still.  Clones and Stormtroopers are backing up at retail some, but I bet they're still logging some great sales numbers, and I think the Wookiee probably had something similar going for it as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 1, 2007, 09:40 AM
I agree that the Preview Wookiee was one of the unsung figures of the ROTS line, and it would be nice to see some wookiees out there again.  I know the ROTS Chewie and Tarfful seemed kind of lame by comparison to that preview figure (as well as the "regular" line wookiee).  Maybe we'll see some sort of Kashyyyk battle pack full o' wookiees.  We'll see.

I wasn't surprised by all of the questions about the Hoth BP this week either, but it did seem really redundant overall for this session.  Like others have said, there isn't a lot to ask sometimes and its nice to still have this to look forward to every couple weeks and give us little glimpses here and there towards the future.  I think others are on the mark with that Hoth BP being "this year's Shuttle".  We know its coming to Target (according to that pic), and its being consistently "no comment"-ed by Hasbro (much like the Shuttle last year).  Heck, I think some people even found them early last year and Hasbro still pretended to know nothing about them.  Anyways, I hope they are easy enough to get a hold of, I'm really looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 1, 2007, 09:44 AM
I agree that the Preview Wookiee was one of the unsung figures of the ROTS line, and it would be nice to see some wookiees out there again.  I know the ROTS Chewie and Tarfful seemed kind of lame by comparison to that preview figure (as well as the "regular" line wookiee).  Maybe we'll see some sort of Kashyyyk battle pack full o' wookiees.  We'll see.

I'm thinking Battle Pack as well for any potential Wookiees.  Probably a Battle of Kashyyyk pack.  Ideally I'd like to get Merumeru, but even a new sculpt of Tarfful would be most welcome.  The ROTS Tarfful was not well executed.  And neither was the ROTS Chewbacca, for that matter.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on October 1, 2007, 09:56 AM
Thanks again to Matt for compiling all of this info every week. 

This saves a lot of us time and searching.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 1, 2007, 03:03 PM
Oh, stop it.  It's really no big deal.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on October 1, 2007, 06:59 PM
Oh, stop it.  It's really no big deal.

You may think its no big deal but i know i really appreciate it. I would like to extend my thanks as well.  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JangoTat on October 1, 2007, 08:09 PM
Oh, stop it.  It's really no big deal.

So you are the one that does it...Thanks man! 8)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 1, 2007, 10:50 PM
Thanks, fellas.

Now, knock it the **** off.

 :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on October 1, 2007, 11:26 PM
Actually Matt, it is really nice of you to compile all of those.   
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 2, 2007, 12:31 AM
Actually Matt, it is really nice of you to compile all of those.   

Great.

Now, what part of "knock it the **** off" don't you understand?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 2, 2007, 12:40 AM
Did you ever know...  That you're my hero?  :'(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 2, 2007, 12:41 AM
God damn you, Jesse James.

God damn you to hell.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 2, 2007, 12:45 AM
Already told they're afraid I'll take over, so nope...  Cleveland though perhaps.  :-\  *shudder*
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 2, 2007, 12:51 AM
Seriously though, I appreciate all the kind words, but I would appreciate it even more if all the kind words would cease.

I really enjoy compiling all the Q & A's, and I'm such an anal-retentive, OCD dickhead that I'd probably still do it even if nobody else was reading.

So let's put the kibosh on all the "Matt you're the greatest for doing that" talk.  It's really getting old.

I do take PayPal.  Address in my profile.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on October 2, 2007, 12:54 AM
OCD dickhead
>:( >:( >:( ::) >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 2, 2007, 12:57 AM
Old Cocky ******bag?

 ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 2, 2007, 01:19 AM
Ornery Collosal dip****?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on October 2, 2007, 01:44 PM
Poor guy doesn't know how to react to anything outside of an insult.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 2, 2007, 03:05 PM
I will not say anything other than the time organizing this is appreciated.....

Here are my submissions for consideration for the next Q&A:

1. With a mix bagged response to the 2007 Han Bespin included with the Torture rack, will we get a regular Han Bespin in 2008? He is way overdue for a good SA version such an iconic outfit.

2. With the new CW show coming in the fall and most likely a strong product platform supporting it can we expect first few waves of 08 figures be more OTC based since will will be getting prequel overload at that time? Wave 1 is is ROTS based but will waves 2-5 be more OTC focused.

3. Bespin has such excellent characters like Bespin Guards, Ugnaughts, Lieutenant Sheckil, White IG-88 Willrow hood & that loser Klingon wannabe Utris M'Toc. Will we see any characters from cloud city with new or partial new sculpts this year?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 2, 2007, 10:29 PM
Here are my submissions for consideration for the next Q&A:

Please remember to post your questions for Hasbro in this thread (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0).  If they do not get posted in there, they may get lost in the discussion in here...   I try to catch them when they pop up like this, but I don't always find every one posted outside that thread.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 3, 2007, 02:48 PM
Got it. I will post them there. Thanks!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 5, 2007, 03:20 PM
But the other thing that was REALLY annoying?  Apparently one forum user at Jedi Insider, Rebelscum and Sandtroopers wound up having the EXACT SAME QUESTION submitted by ALL THREE SITES.  The wording in the question is pretty much identical from all three of those sites.

In choosing the 3 JD questions for this week, I noticed that same guy had posted his question here too...

Dear Hasbro,

I love what you've done with Clone Troopers and Stormtroopers. All the articulation you can ask for (well, except for Commander Baccura/Commander Cody). I have several shelves in my home dedicated to Clones and their Jedi Generals. As well as Stormtroopers snapped at attention for Darth Vader and the Emperor.

So don't you think it's time you start putting a little more attention on our rebel freinds? I'd love to have a squad of Rebel Commandos that could stand at attention for General Madine or crouch behind fallen logs. I'd love to have Hoth Soldiers who could toss a grenade, crawl on their belly in a sniper position, or look through a pair of macrobinoculars.

For years now we've been able to put our Clones/Storms in most any position we'd like.....so please give us the same option for our beloved Rebels.....please

Good thing we actually pay a little attention to the questions that get asked before blindly sending them off or you may have seen it pop up again next week...  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 5, 2007, 04:48 PM
Quote
Good thing we actually pay a little attention to the questions that get asked before blindly sending them off or you may have seen it pop up again next week... 


Amen to that...  Between Jeff's thoroughness with the Q&A sessions to make sure he didn't ask a duplicate and Matt's archived lists, it's definitely easier and more productive for the Q&A sessions to keep on being interesting/informative here.  Some weeks more than others, but there is definitely life left in the Q&A to make it really get an answer on something rather than just be Hasbro's open suggestion box I think.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on October 8, 2007, 11:51 AM
Some weeks more than others, but there is definitely life left in the Q&A. . .

True dat!  I really didn't think that the Q & A sessions would go on for as long as they have.  Maybe a couple, three months, at best, before they got fed up with it and stopped doing them.  But here we are, nearly a year and a half later, and they're going stronger than ever.  They've even added a couple new sites in the last few sessions.

And the exciting stuff on tap for next year--Force Unleashed, Indiana Jones, and The Clone Wars--should provide more than fuel to keep the Q&A going for quite a while.

And I hope it continues on indefinitely.  I'm usually not one to say "Hasbro sucks" about anything, but their online presence, with the fan community, absolutely sucked--HARD--for years and years.  So, despite the occasional repetitiveness, and the frequently ****** questions (and answers), this is still a nice service for the online community.  Hopefully it keeps going.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 12, 2007, 09:44 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1192239640,73358,).

- SA Bespin Han in 2008?  No.  :(
- SA Snowtrooper Officer?
- Plants and Tree pack-ins?


On a side note, I find it funny that Hasbro says "Plants aren't high on the list" when talking about pack-in accessories and then the Endor Batttle Pack has a few logs in it.  I guess logs are cooler than plants...  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on October 13, 2007, 12:38 AM
I wonder which Han they intend to "turn their attention to" next year?  Stormtrooper armor Han?  Or maybe they mean some EU source Han...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 13, 2007, 01:46 AM
Yeah, that's a tough one to figure out...  Stormie Han seems like the most logical film source other than Bespin Han.  Bespin's a matter of time though, really.

Wonder if the V30AC Snowtrooper question means they've got it in their noggins now to re-hash that figure in a cool way?  I hope so since I'd love that officer in a sa format.  The other figure certainly doesn't cut it.  I just wonder if they'd get the suit details right on this figure though. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 13, 2007, 01:49 AM
TESB Han Solo in carbonite anyone?  That one is LONG overdue for a modern rendition.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on October 13, 2007, 08:23 AM
I am happy to hear that we will be getting a Silver EU coin.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on October 18, 2007, 11:54 AM
Yeah, that Legends wave 5 question confused me.  What exactly are they referring to when they say there are 3 EU figures affected?

Quote
Will the just-announced Saga Legends wave 5 include collector coins? If so, what color will they be? The reason I ask is because some fans are eager for an EU coin in silver, and 3 of the winning figure qualify as EU. (RS, 10/12/07)

Yes, they will come with coins. There will be at least one silver EU coin in there. ; )
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 18, 2007, 12:51 PM
What exactly are they referring to when they say there are 3 EU figures affected?

I believe they were talking about the recent fan poll and how 3 of the 5 announced winners qualify for EU coins.

EU =
1. Shadow Stormtrooper
3. Covert Ops Clone Trooper
4. Utapau Shadow Trooper

I could see them using the gold EU coin (like the Darktrooper has) for the "winner" of the recent fan poll (Shadow Stormtrooper) and then using a silver one for the other two clones... or something like that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on October 26, 2007, 06:18 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1193436676,81869,).

- What's the deal with that Lava Droid/Platform? *
- Which EU Spacetrooper in 2008?
- Can we get more pack-In figures on basic cards?


* Yes, #1 is kind of old news at this point.  Unfortunately, we submitted the question last Friday morning not knowing that Hasbro would be showing off the 2008 carded figures at the Dallas show...  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on October 26, 2007, 08:43 PM
TESB Han Solo in carbonite anyone?  That one is LONG overdue for a modern rendition.

I would definately go for that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on October 28, 2007, 10:19 AM
From RS's round-up report, one of the sites asks about the Force Unleashed Emperor Palpatine, and the response is that it's an Unleashed figure of the small scale  :'(
I was hoping for a lightning-hurling resculpt of the Emperor in the 4" scale!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on October 29, 2007, 10:14 AM
Yeah, that Legends wave 5 question confused me.  What exactly are they referring to when they say there are 3 EU figures affected?

Quote
Will the just-announced Saga Legends wave 5 include collector coins? If so, what color will they be? The reason I ask is because some fans are eager for an EU coin in silver, and 3 of the winning figure qualify as EU. (RS, 10/12/07)

Yes, they will come with coins. There will be at least one silver EU coin in there. ; )

Could this simply mean that wave 5 will have a darktrooper re-distributed, but with a silver coin?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 29, 2007, 01:23 PM
Yeah, that Legends wave 5 question confused me.  What exactly are they referring to when they say there are 3 EU figures affected?

Quote
Will the just-announced Saga Legends wave 5 include collector coins? If so, what color will they be? The reason I ask is because some fans are eager for an EU coin in silver, and 3 of the winning figure qualify as EU. (RS, 10/12/07)

Yes, they will come with coins. There will be at least one silver EU coin in there. ; )

Could this simply mean that wave 5 will have a darktrooper re-distributed, but with a silver coin?

No.  It means that the Shadow Stormtrooper, Covert Ops Clone Trooper and Utapau Shadow Trooper are probably getting issued with the silver EU coins.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on October 29, 2007, 05:08 PM
Bah to those figures!   ;D

I might grab a couple Shadow Stormies... but the others will be left on the pegs for the other people who want them.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on November 9, 2007, 06:22 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1194650179,5926,).

1.  Most obscure figure? 
2.  AotC Clone Pilot Repack - 2002 or Evo version?
3.  Indy toys in 2009?

** Also, due to the Thanksgiving Holiday, the Q&A Sessions will be taking a hiatus.  The next batch of answers should be available on Friday, December 7th.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on November 10, 2007, 08:57 AM
Wow, thirty Indy figures?  I had not heard that previously.  Of course half of them will probably be Indy in various forms but still.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on December 7, 2007, 09:10 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1197079195,2618,).... and it's actually pretty good.  :)

- No solo Ultimate Hoth Turret anytime soon...
- Unproduced figures, the 2008 San Diego Exclusive, and Fozec.  Yes, Fozec.
- 2008 Wave 3 - a hint!

So, be sure to read the answers to get a hint at both 2008 Wave 3 and the 2008 San Diego Comic Con exclusive.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 7, 2007, 09:23 PM
So I am guessing Oola as next years exclusive. I believe she was supposed to in the line this year. I of course would prefer if it was Yarna.  ;D

Awesome news about Fozec. Nice to hear they want some backgorund characters made just as badly as we do.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on December 21, 2007, 05:18 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1198275234,32904,).

- 16 of the 2007 30AC figures will be back with stands in 2008.
- What's up with the dioramas/playsets used for the recent packaging backgrounds?
- No store exclusives for IJ toy launch?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on December 21, 2007, 07:24 PM
Sweet news about Fozec.  If they can make him Willrow should be on the way.   ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on December 22, 2007, 01:21 PM
I thought this was an interesting answer that Sandtroopers received:

Quote
Looking at some of the figures of minor characters that were made years ago, I started to think about how cool they could be if some of them were brought up to today's standards. Some examples that come to mind are Boshek, Tessek, Adi Gallia, Takeel, Dr. Evazan, Prune Face and Ree-Yees. Most of these figures looked nice in their day, but they just don't hold up to today's standards anymore. I understand that remakes of minor background characters can't happen very often, but I'm wondering who, if any, is one minor character that the Hasbro team would really like to have another shot at? (ST, 12/21/07) (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=5183.msg159538#msg159538)

Great question.  As we have produced "definitive" versions of many such backgrounders lately and added them to our shelf displays, we, like you, have noticed that many of these old-timers, while great in their day, do look a little soft around the edges.  We would say that of the seven figures you single out, we have plans to update three of them over the next couple of years, and will probably get to a couple more of them as well before too much longer.  Of the remaining ones, it's unlikely that we'll update Boshek or Takeel for a looong time, if ever, since we would be more likely to spend that "slot" in the lineup on a new Cantina figure.

Tessek, Adi Gallia, Dr. Evazan, Prune Face, and Ree-Yees. 

Which three out of those five is Hasbro talking about?

I'd toss Adi Gallia, but good cases can be made for the other four.  Tessek is probably the one least in need of a new version, as it's the most-recently done and still holds up today, nearly seven years later.

So my guesses are Evazan, Prune Face, and Ree-Yees.  I'd like to see what they could do with a new Evazan and Walrusman.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 22, 2007, 02:02 PM
Evazan's easily #1 on that list that needs redone...  I'd say Ree Yees and Tessek are a tie, I don't really feel that one is worse than the other, so I'd not discount either one, however I'd go with Ree Yees just because of his older status.  I don't personally mind Tessek or Ree Yees though.

The two on the list I'm most interested in then are Evazan, and definitely Prune Face...  I've hoped for a nice SA resculpt of the Dresellian Commando figure, and hopefully it'll include a removable eyepatch so you can have either of them.  Evazan and Ponda Baba, definitely are on my resculpt wishlist too though, despite Ponda not getting a mention...  Way ahead of Tessek and Ree Yees for sure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 22, 2007, 03:33 PM
Did hasbro confirm Ak-Rev without realizing it in this weeks Q&A? I think we all assumed we woould get him with the other half of the drum anyway though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 23, 2007, 01:35 PM
I think they kind of did.  They also mentioned the likelihood of Toyrn Farr and a big giant holographic Emperor head.   :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 24, 2007, 08:52 AM
I just saw the Holographic Emperor head comment. Interesting...I Think? My guess woul dbe a battle pack.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on December 24, 2007, 11:14 AM
I just saw the Holographic Emperor head comment. Interesting...I Think? My guess woul dbe a battle pack.

Meditation room multipack. (Though the big giant head technically wasn't here):
Vader
Emperor head
Admiral Piett
General Veers
Meditation chamber

This would be my guess. Three figures and two BIG accessories.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on December 24, 2007, 05:13 PM
They also mentioned the likelihood of Toyrn Farr and a big giant holographic Emperor head.   :)

Wippiee!  A giant blue head to add to my collection.   :-\

What an odd Battlepack that will make..
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 25, 2007, 02:24 AM
I'm actually all about a big holographic Palpatine noggin for my Vader to chat it up with.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 26, 2007, 10:33 AM
In regards to the Sandtroopers Q&A, an updated Dr. Evazan is long over due. I don't came much about the others mentioned, in many ways, their current form they can get a pass, but Dr. Evazan, in my best Will Smith, Damn.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 26, 2007, 01:40 PM
Dr. Evazan has never really gotten a decent figure.  And both of the Evazan's to date have been part of multi-packs.  But neither figure has really captured his true ugliness that well.  Especially when you consider that his appearance in ANH is pretty crucial, since it's the first time Obi-Wan really shows off his Jedi powers.

As for the Emporer's giant holographic head?  You have me to blame, there.  Well, at least for the question.  I was very surprised to see that Hasbro bit at that one, but I'm very pleased with the answer.  I think it will make for a very interesting piece, although I think it's probably going to be offered in something like a Battle Pack.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 26, 2007, 01:43 PM
I have to agree. Not many figures really NEED a resculpt, but he really does. The figures they have done really do not represent the character at all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on December 26, 2007, 03:27 PM
Will they use the "new" 2004 DVD Ian McDiarmid head or the original?  Whichever is picked there is sure to be some arguing about that.  I am interested to see what they come up with for the head. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on December 26, 2007, 04:59 PM
The Emperor's head is surprising... maybe we'll get it in a battle pack like someone mentioned... with something like this -

(http://www.owenscustoms.com/rejuvenationchamberU.JPG)

Throw in Vader, Piett, and a few Imperial army builders and you have a nice set for a $50 Target exclusive next year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 26, 2007, 09:09 PM
Will they use the "new" 2004 DVD Ian McDiarmid head or the original?  Whichever is picked there is sure to be some arguing about that.  I am interested to see what they come up with for the head. 

Lucasfilm Licensing would probably direct them to use the McDiarmid head.  They have final approval on pretty much anything that's licensed, and they would no doubt take GL's stance that the Emporer should look like he does in the current incarnation of TESB.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 27, 2007, 10:22 AM
Will they use the "new" 2004 DVD Ian McDiarmid head or the original?  Whichever is picked there is sure to be some arguing about that.  I am interested to see what they come up with for the head. 

Have people argued about inserting McDiarmid's head? I can see them fussing about the changed dialogue, but the head and voice seemed pretty logical.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on December 27, 2007, 02:46 PM
I dunno, if they do give us the Emperor's head then I think Hasbro would give us something like this:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v283/DiddlySquat/sw04ultrarieekanpanelfr.jpg)

but with a picture of Palpy's face on it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on December 27, 2007, 03:21 PM
Ek!  Let's hope not!   ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on December 28, 2007, 07:49 AM
Will they use the "new" 2004 DVD Ian McDiarmid head or the original?  Whichever is picked there is sure to be some arguing about that.  I am interested to see what they come up with for the head. 

Have people argued about inserting McDiarmid's head? I can see them fussing about the changed dialogue, but the head and voice seemed pretty logical.

No, I was just joking around. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 28, 2007, 06:29 PM
"2. Will we be seeing Guri (Shadows of the Empire) in the new comic packs?


Answer: Not yet. We have only one SotE pack lined up for 2008/2009 with some of the more compelling characters. She is a very interesting character, though, and has appeared in a lot of other sources so her popularity among fans is pretty decent and is in her favor. We would not rule her out for "some day," but not in the near term."

Not amazing news, but good enough. At least they are considering making her. My guess (and hope since i dont think we will be getting new characters) is for the comic pack to have all new updated figures of Dash Rendar and Xizor
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on December 28, 2007, 06:53 PM
Watch one of the figures be a repacked Bousch Leia.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 28, 2007, 07:11 PM
My guess (and hope since i dont think we will be getting new characters) is for the comic pack to have all new updated figures of Dash Rendar and Xizor

If you remember back to November, the Comic Pack rumor list that popped up said that 2008 Wave 2 had a Princess Leia & Prince Xixor set planned.

Wave 2
Grand Admiral Thrawn and Talon Karrde
Darth Vader and Admiral Trachta
Princess Leia and Prince Xizor
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on December 29, 2007, 09:50 AM
Well they probably think they have to get out a main character someway.  To bad it is not Guri and Prince Xizor.  Oh well it's not.  From that SOTE I would not mind Guri and Big Gizz (think that was his name). 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 29, 2007, 09:51 AM
I forgot about that. I would have preferred an Updated Dash than Leia.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on December 29, 2007, 01:05 PM
I haven't looked at the SOTE Comics lately, how does Leia appear before she gets the Boushh disguise? Like when she first meets up with Xizor.

Considering that they have released this figure 2 times in as many years, I would really hope that they plan on giving us something new for Leia.

I am also excited to see an updated Xizor, but like the rest of you, I would have preferred a Guri figure or an updated Dash Rendar to Leia.

Perhaps they plan on eventually hitting all six of the SOTE comics eventually - I wouldn't mind seeing a 2-pack of Dash Rendar and his droid Leebo.

There were some great designs and characters in SOTE, I would love to see them do something like this:

Issue 1: Luke Skywalker w/Tan Vest (easy mod to TAC Luke) & Jix
Issue 2: Boba Fett (ESB colors of VOTC figure) & Furlag
Issue 3: Big Gizz & Spiker
Issue 4: Chewie in Snoova Disguise (mod of VOTC/EBK figure w/new head & removeable armor) & Guri
Issue 5: Dash Rendar (SA & all new) & Leebo
Issue 6: Leia & Xizor (SA & all new)

There are some other characters that could easily be swapped in as well: Lando or Luke in Coruscant Guard armor or just a regular SA Coruscant Guard, Skahtul, Howzmin, etc...

Too bad they didn't have the comic 2-packs in 2006, that would have been the ideal time to release them all in celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the project.


Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on January 18, 2008, 09:36 PM
Not a terrible answer from Hasbro. (RS question)

Okay, more words: While we love Clones, Jedi, Droids, multiple versions of Vader/Anakin/Obi-Wan/Luke/Yoda, how about some more female figures? Not just Leia or Padmé, either! There's a lot of females in the Star Wars saga who never seem to get their day. Any chances we will see someone like Aunt Beru, Toryn Farr, or dare we say it?---Yarna?

Hasbro: Yes! A few more females are on the way, with at least one of your list seeing shelves in 2008, and at least one more planned (but subject to change) for 2009.


I don't think i am lucky enough for Yarna to be the 2008 figure but i think she is the subject to change for 2009. At this point I'll take it. I am guessing Toryn Farr is this years female figure over Beru.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on January 18, 2008, 09:41 PM
Yeah, Toryyn Farr seems really likely. Although I'd prefer Yarna over her by far.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on January 18, 2008, 10:00 PM
That's good news! 2 of the 3 mentioned female are on Hasbro's radar for 08 & 09. I would take all three, but I wonder how they'll do it? I would hope relevance in the overall story would put Beru in there, but after that who's more relevant, Yarna or Toryn?  :-\

Just make em all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on January 18, 2008, 10:38 PM
Yeah, Toryyn Farr seems really likely.

I have no idea who this is....pic   ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 18, 2008, 11:34 PM
Yeah, Toryyn Farr seems really likely.

I have no idea who this is....pic   ???

(http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/torynfarr/img/movie_sm.jpg)

or
(http://www.cswu.cz/characters/pilots/torynfarr.jpg)

or

http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/torynfarr/

-Sal
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on January 19, 2008, 12:42 AM
Nice if we get Toryyn... but something tells me that if we do, we'll get a nice SA version of her before Hoth Leia...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on January 19, 2008, 09:25 AM
Here was a clever way to ask about the BAF wave from BB:

"2.  I recently discovered I still had my old Droid Factory Playset.   Is there any chance of an updated version?  Or a build your own Astromech type set?

Well that's a very interesting question.  While there are no plans for
playsets in Star Wars, the play pattern you describe would be fun.  Stay
tuned…."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on January 20, 2008, 06:55 PM
Nice if we get Toryyn... but something tells me that if we do, we'll get a nice SA version of her before Hoth Leia...

Oh yeah.  Do not get me wrong.  I would like to have torryn but would much rather get Yarna or Beru first.  But yeah, it will be a kickass SA version of Torryn with a console to. 

Sucks about the playsets yet again.  Oh well.  At least the AT-TE is coming.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on January 20, 2008, 07:08 PM
Quote
Sucks about the playsets yet again.

Yeah, never saw that answer coming. ;)  In any of the incarnations the question was asked this time either.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on January 21, 2008, 04:17 PM
I am very surprised we are not getting at least one of the vintage figures not yet done. I have to say I am unhappy about that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on January 21, 2008, 04:36 PM
I'm a little bummed, but it did say several for '09 though...  I can accept that.  2008's seemingly a hectic year.  It also seems like maybe they're not going to eye the OT as much.  Perhaps that's because of Clone Wars?  They'll be eyeing the prequal films that sort of lead into, and cap off that era...  It makes sense really, but I'm still disappointed as well, that we won't see a vintage figure makeover in '08.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on January 21, 2008, 07:02 PM
Quote
Sucks about the playsets yet again.

Yeah, never saw that answer coming. ;)  In any of the incarnations the question was asked this time either.   :P

Well yeah it is certainly no surprise.  Besides they probably can't make a decent playset to save their toy lives anyway.   
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on January 21, 2008, 09:25 PM
Ya never know...  I think with their mentality fixed as it is that playsets need kids to buy them, there's definite precedent then that Hasbro would build the st to suit one age group over another, and thus it's not going to appeal to "us"...  Just never know what's up their sleeves though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 21, 2008, 11:37 PM
They rejected the list of unmade vintage for this year, yet claim much OTC goodness.  Evidently there are some unmade characters and/or resculpts coming then.  Toryn Farr is a good guess, and since they expressed interest in ewoks, we could get the mother/wokling or perhaps a resculpt of Wicket/Paploo/Logray.  Looks like we're getting several pilots in Evolutions, so maybe we'll get some Hoth versions, and very possibly resculpts of Hoth Troopers or RFTs.  We should get the obligatory 2 cantina denizens and maybe a Jabba palace creature or two.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Oboewan on January 22, 2008, 09:52 AM
What totally threw me this QnA is when discussing vehicle types in terms of what Hasblo won't do:

"do not have an inspiring design (Dooku's Solar Sailor)"

I personally thought Dooku's ship was an AWESEOME design and QUITE inspired. 
But that's just me......
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on January 22, 2008, 10:04 AM
Looks like a slow year for OT (despite possible Evolutions stuff, maybe they consider the fact that Boba Fett is in the one Evo set, that they have the OT covered).

With PT and PT based EU filling the schedule this year, I'll just save up and move my resources the 25th Joe stuff.

I also take issue with Hasbro and their "Aggressive" comment on the Cloud Car..not to be too much of Geek on this but...name one of the few ship types in the OT to fire on the Millenium Falcon and Live to tell about it...that's right  Twin Pod Cloud Car....in fact since we never see one explode in the OT, it COULD be canon that they cannot be destroyed at all..how's that for aggressive.  I am sure we'll get it some day, but it will be re-imagined to fit the PT so it will be the "Clone-Pod" Cloud Clone Car.

It seems the vintage line may well be dead, which is sad, but at least they are looking at ways to find out how to charge OT collector's an extra dollar per figure, so they haven't completely forgotten us.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on January 22, 2008, 10:18 AM
I kind of get the feeling that this year will be a little light on the OT as well.  I mean, I do collect the prequel stuff - and I'm excited for the Clone Wars - but I hope we get some OT goodness along the way as well.  Hasbro keeps telling us there will be OT, so I'm sure there will, but with the first three waves (at least what is rumored), along with the big EU, Force Unleashed, and Clone Wars pushes this year, there probably won't be a whole lot of slots left when its all said and done.  So much of what we've heard about OT figures seems to be as a "classic" line alongside Clone Wars, so I do hope the "line looks" (like cardbacks) are different enough so that we don't have trouble finding any new OT stuff due to the pile of Clone Wars Anakins and Obi-Wans on the pegs :).  I'm really looking forward to Toy Fair this year, because I can't remember a time when we had known/seen less of the year's offerings at this point than this year.

Also, I do hope the vintage line isn't ending totally.  I mean, I could see not being able to do the entire original vintage lineup, but there are enough main characters left to get another couple waves.  Sure, the increased price stinks, but I do like seeing those classic cardbacks :).
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on February 1, 2008, 06:14 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1201907506,2432,).

- no silver EU coin... :(
- maybe a non-Sullustan B-Wing pilot pack-in?
- no Toht in 2008 :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on February 1, 2008, 06:56 PM
That Sullustan B-Wing pilot answer suggests what we were discussing in the Evolutions thread: Ten Nunb will be in the 3-pack and likely there will be a kit-bashed human for the B-Wing itself.  I just hope that doesn't hold off an SA B-Wing pilot this year or next...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 2, 2008, 05:29 AM
I'd guess the B-Winger in the Evolutions set is going to be quite articulated, and that it's the base for whatever the pack-in is...  Still, I wonder why a pack-in would be specific to the B-Wing?  The way the answer was worded, it sounded like the figure would make sense with the ship, but really B-Wings don't really appear prominent in EU with any individual character I can think of.

I wasn't really in the mood to buy a 2nd B-Wing, so the thoughts of this pack-in figure bum me out a little too...

In other Q&A goodness, it seems as though there will be some Hoth Rebel greatness coming in 2008!  That's good news.

Lots of dull stuff in the Q&A again this week, but there were some good answers too.  I liked the news from our questions for the most part (Yay for Toht, and the B-Wing thing is interesting), but the coin answer was disappointing.  I really wanted a silver EU coin...  Such is life with that though.

Good stuff came up this week I thought, at least with some of the questions asked, so that was a nice read through in Matt's round-up thread.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on February 2, 2008, 09:49 AM
That Sullustan B-Wing pilot answer suggests what we were discussing in the Evolutions thread: Ten Nunb will be in the 3-pack and likely there will be a kit-bashed human for the B-Wing itself.  I just hope that doesn't hold off an SA B-Wing pilot this year or next...

Yep - my thoughts exactly.

Although, if you think about it, the torso of Ten Numb could be the basis for any future B-Wing figure. Not to mention the fact that if they sculpt the arms and legs right, it might just be a matter of sculpting longer thighs, longer upper arms and a Human head to change a SA Ten Numb figure into a SA Human B-Wing pilot.

I'm glad that the B-Wing is coming. It's been a while since it was an exclusive to Target and it's always been one of my favorite designs from the OT. Also, since I don't army build vehicles, it will be a great opportunity to add a second one to my open collection as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 3, 2008, 09:05 AM
I am very surprised we are not getting at least one of the vintage figures not yet done. I have to say I am unhappy about that.

Yeah, what happened to Lumat?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on February 3, 2008, 10:20 AM
I just saw the question Hasbro answered regarding Jabba the Hutt. At this point, i really dont understand why they cant get a ultimate battle pack with Jabba and throne. I just dont understand what the problem is. Can we get a follow-up question as to why it is such  a difficult item to find a spot for?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on February 3, 2008, 11:01 AM
No Toht? That's pretty disappointing.  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on February 3, 2008, 03:51 PM
There were some other interesting questions and answers around the web too:
At Mousedroid, a question was asked about Ponda Baba being resculpted, and they replied: Yes (to a Resculpt of  Ponda Baba), and we did not mention him specifically because there's a strong possibility that we'll take another look at him someday.

Also, at Sirsteve's, someone asked about a new Snowspeeder: Because of the size and greater cost, it has not been possible to get the existing Snowspeeder into the $20 vehicle pricepoint. You and your readers have been instrumental in the past in championing for a "true to scale" version and for this reason we have held off at using it in more exclusives. We have heard you....and are looking at ways to bring a new one to market within the next couple of years. Stay tuned!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 4, 2008, 01:26 AM
Good news on the Snowspeeder, but I thought that was already sort of hinted at from past Q&A's (not necessarilly from SSG)?  Either way, it's good to hear as it's definitely too big.

The Ponda Baba I kind of just assumed would happen at some point.  He and Evazan are overdue at this point.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 4, 2008, 08:50 AM
I caught the snowspeeder Q&A. Don't know how to feel about that. I like having the 4 unique ones I have, but at the same time, a more accurate one sounds cool.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on February 4, 2008, 01:09 PM
Hasbro stated in an earlier Q&A that they would like to revisit the Snowspeeder at some point in time.  But the answer was rather vague.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Muftak on February 8, 2008, 07:32 PM
I wonder why a pack-in would be specific to the B-Wing?  The way the answer was worded, it sounded like the figure would make sense with the ship, but really B-Wings don't really appear prominent in EU with any individual character I can think of.

Doesn't EU say Admiral Ackbar designed the B-Wing? That could be interesting...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 9, 2008, 09:08 AM

Doesn't EU say Admiral Ackbar designed the B-Wing? That could be interesting...

Interesting. I guess can see a slight common design theme with their large cruisers.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darthjaybay on February 10, 2008, 11:35 PM
never posted a question here, where do we post our hasbro questions?
Heres a good one,  WHAT IS WITH THE SECRECY ALREADY???  Enough already!  We asked about a new falcon that may or may not be coming out... your reply, we will not be answering any more questions on the falcon.  WOW, GREAT!!!! WE MAKE HASBRO!  We buy their merchandise, we drive their sales!   Who cares if we know whats in the upcoming pipeline???  Am I alone here?
Whoever posts the questions, you can clean this up!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on February 10, 2008, 11:37 PM
never posted a question here, where do we post our hasbro questions?

Questions for Hasbro?  (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on February 11, 2008, 05:06 PM
Whoever posts the questions, you can clean this up!

never posted a question here, where do we post our hasbro questions?
Heres a good one,  WHAT IS WITH THE SECRECY ALREADY???  Enough already!  We asked about a new falcon that may or may not be coming out... your reply, we will not be answering any more questions on the falcon.  WOW, GREAT!!!! WE MAKE HASBRO!  We buy their merchandise, we drive their sales!   Who cares if we know whats in the upcoming pipeline???  Am I alone here?


All clean and ready for submission.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mikey D on February 12, 2008, 09:11 AM
You might have better luck asking that question over at sandtroopers...
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on February 27, 2008, 03:14 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA (which was delayed a bit due to Toy Fair) has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1204143094,42696,).

- Hasbro's thoughts behind the "animated" style Clone Wars figure decision
- Hasbro loves the AT-TE
- Willrow.  2009.  Finally.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 27, 2008, 03:44 PM
You might have better luck asking that question over at sandtroopers...

SANDWHO?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mikey D on February 27, 2008, 04:17 PM
SANDWHO?

Exactly.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on February 27, 2008, 04:45 PM
ICMG! Yes!!!
Animated figures...NO
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on March 7, 2008, 06:01 PM
Just a note to say that Hasbro passed along word that this week's answers will be delayed...  look for the answers to show up next week I'm guessing.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on March 7, 2008, 06:10 PM
(http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/3116/festivusyesbagelsnooa2.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on March 12, 2008, 09:24 PM
Just a note to say our answers for this week are currently MIA.   :-\

Hopefully it was an oversight on their part and we'll have our latest batch of answers soon...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rune Haako on March 13, 2008, 02:19 PM
Looks like we're the only ones that didn't get are questions answered.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on March 13, 2008, 03:04 PM
Hasbro sent me a note today explaining that there was some confusion regarding the response to one of our questions and they held our answers until they were sure they had a clear and accurate response.

With that, the answers for this week have been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1205434949,54832,). :)

- Just how does that Legacy Wave 1 multi-piece Vader helmet work?
- Details on the SDCC exclusive (I know - old news now :()
- GH Ahsoka or Asajj? Maybe...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darthjaybay on March 13, 2008, 03:56 PM
Is it just me, or did anyone else find the answer about Vaders removeable helmet confusing?  Is it two pieces or one?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on March 13, 2008, 04:09 PM
From what I gathered, they were talking about the collar piece being 1, but want to do 2 pieces... That said, they didn't talk about the helmet and faceplate, which I think they are doing. So maybe it will be a 3-4 piecer (with a running change?)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on March 20, 2008, 08:31 PM
According to the RS Q&A, possibly new Slave Leia for 09.
Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on March 20, 2008, 08:49 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1206060291,41391,).

- The return of Saga Legends!
- Lack of OT in 2008?
- Midnight Madness for Indy?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on March 20, 2008, 10:20 PM
According to the RS Q&A, possibly new Slave Leia for 09.

Actually it was Yakface's QnA  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on March 20, 2008, 10:51 PM
According to the RS Q&A, possibly new Slave Leia for 09.

Actually it was Yakface's QnA  ;D

Sorry  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 20, 2008, 10:52 PM
Welcome news on nekked Leia.  Hoping for a nice looking figure with nice poseability.  I really think Yarna looks decent, but her pudgey joints maybe help her look better than thin Leia will with various points of articulation.   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on March 20, 2008, 10:59 PM
Welcome news on nekked Leia.  Hoping for a nice looking figure with nice poseability.  I really think Yarna looks decent, but her pudgey joints maybe help her look better than thin Leia will with various points of articulation.   :-\

As discussed at one of out recent MN JD meetings, Leia seems to be getting a ton of love in the coming year:

Hoth Leia
SOTE Leia
Sniper Leia
Slave Leia (2009)
Sandstorm Leia (2009)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on March 25, 2008, 04:26 PM
I was just listening to the Star Wars Action News podcast, and at the 1:23:42 mark, they begin their Hasbro Q and A sessions.  There are some interesting things covered in there:

*Asking about the absence of Jar Jar, Hasbro said that they should have something to announce regarding Jar Jar around Comic Con

*Asking about VOTC in 2009, Hasbro mentions that they can't say when it is coming back, but when it does it likely won't be called VOTC, since it will encompass more than just the "OTC"

There are a few other questions, but I found these the most interesting.  I'm wondering/thinking that maybe we'll be getting a new Jar Jar in the rumored TPM wave for 2009.  An all-new, super articulated version would be nice.  It also sounds like the beloved VOTC line will now include the entire Saga.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on March 25, 2008, 04:30 PM
It also sounds like the beloved VOTC line will now include the entire Saga.

If it does, I won't be keeping a carded collection of those. Prequel stuff on Vintage-style cards is total bullflop. They might as well start coloring OT Stormtroopers... oh wait.  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 25, 2008, 08:23 PM
I kept my packaging for my Vintage figures and don't know how I'll be with PTC figures...  Keeping the package, or tossing it, is at least an easy decision. 

I'm more hopeful we'll see OTC figures that weren't ever made, rather than PTC figures I didn't really want to see on vintage cardbacks.  Tarkin and the gang on Vintage cards did appeal to me though since they were planned but unreleased.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on March 25, 2008, 08:45 PM
More VOTC, but with prequel characters?  Sounds pretty lame to me.  At one time, I thought the idea was fine, but that was in 2004 when the rest of the line pretty much paled in comparison to the VOTC quality.

Now we see great sculpts and articulation in most of the basic line, plus there's the evolutions.

Why pay $10-$12 for prequel figures (or OT characters) to have old school packaging?  Why is this line even overpriced for that matter?  They should be the same price as regular figures, but without the clam shells.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on March 26, 2008, 09:33 AM
I'm not thrilled with the idea of seeing prequel characters in the "VOTC" line either.  I understand that the well of "main characters/army builders" might be running a little bit thin now with the OT, but I think that they could get another wave or two out of that series.  I realize that the higher price stinks, but I have to say that the VOTC/VTSC have been my favorite part of the line since they first started out.  Sure, they haven't all been perfect, but most have been pretty good - and the vintage packaging is just a spiffy bonus.

Like others, creating "vintage-like" packaging for prequel characters seems wrong.  If they wanted to recreate the cards the figures/characters originally came on, that might be more acceptable - but like its been said, the regular line quality has basically come up to VOTC now, so they could just as well do these in the regular line.  Also, sticking with the formula that they have used with the OT characters - many of the main characters from the prequels have been done pretty well (or will be coming shortly).  Aside from maybe a few tweaks here and there, we already have nearly "ultimate" versions of Maul (Evolutions), Dooku (ROTS/Evolutions), Jango (Evolutions), Qui-Gon (Evolutions), Anakins (Evolutions), Obi-Wan Kenobi (ROTS and possibly upcoming figures that are now confirmed), Padme (Evolutions), SBD/Destroyer Droids (TAC), Palpatine (Evolutions), Clonetroopers (various lines), and the list goes on.  Aside from a few changes (maybe adding in ball jointed elbow on some, paint differences on others), we're getting closer to getting an "ultimate" lineup from the prequels as well.  That being the case, we'd basically be getting repacks for $10 each.

Just keep cranking out remaining figures like TPM/AOTC Obi-Wan, Jar Jar, more Padmes, a good Battle Droid and others in the basic line - and leave the VOTC line for the OT characters.  There's still good versions of the main characters to be done for Han (Bespin), Luke (Hoth/Jedi), Leia (Hoth); army builders (Rebel Soldiers - all, TIE Pilot), or even miscellaneous characters (Gamorrean Guard, Zuckuss, Admiral Ackbar, etc.)  I think there is at least enough left to make another wave or two.  Finishing out the entire vintage run would be cool too, but seems unlikely.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on March 26, 2008, 10:53 AM
*Asking about the absence of Jar Jar, Hasbro said that they should have something to announce regarding Jar Jar around Comic Con

*Asking about VOTC in 2009, Hasbro mentions that they can't say when it is coming back, but when it does it likely won't be called VOTC, since it will encompass more than just the "OTC"

What if they started the "VPTC" with Jar Jar?  Wouldn't that just be a huge kick in the nads?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on March 27, 2008, 01:59 AM
More VOTC, but with prequel characters?  Sounds pretty lame to me.  At one time, I thought the idea was fine, but that was in 2004 when the rest of the line pretty much paled in comparison to the VOTC quality.

Now we see great sculpts and articulation in most of the basic line, plus there's the evolutions.

Why pay $10-$12 for prequel figures (or OT characters) to have old school packaging?  Why is this line even overpriced for that matter?  They should be the same price as regular figures, but without the clam shells.

Never mind the price!  Characters dreamed up in the late 1990's don't belong on vintage style card backs - period.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on March 29, 2008, 11:54 PM
Well, I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think the VOTC concept will return in 2009 with a small sub-line of 6 - 8 figures based on characters from TPM - Obi-Wan, Anakin, Padme, Watto, Darth Maul, Qui-Gon, Battledroid and Jar Jar Binks are my guesses when it comes to a TPM 10th anniversary vintage tribute line.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JangoTat on March 30, 2008, 11:48 AM
I notice everyone does not like the idea of having PT characters in the vintage line because they shouldn't be on vintage cards. However Hasbro never even said they would put them on vintage cards, heck what if this vintage like is the same as lasts years only instead of made up vintage cards the figures are placed on the episode 1 card packs? I think that would make more sense, and heck I'd be pretty happy if they did that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on March 30, 2008, 08:34 PM
First off, I'd like Prequel characters on Vinatge cards.   I think it would be a cool sort of "what if..." sceneario.  Also, putting them on retro 1999 cards would be a huge mistake.  That cardback caused many retailers to hate the SW line, and in some cases, that cardback can still be found in stores!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on March 31, 2008, 05:27 PM
First off, I'd like Prequel characters on Vinatge cards.   I think it would be a cool sort of "what if..." sceneario.  Also, putting them on retro 1999 cards would be a huge mistake.  That cardback caused many retailers to hate the SW line, and in some cases, that cardback can still be found in stores!

It's funny you said that because I actually just found the Boxed EP 1 Vulture Droid 3pack at Wal-Mart today. It rang up and 14.98. They still have EP1 **** in their systems!!! I thought I would get it for a buck.

I am one who feels the prequels should not be given the VOTC treatment. I would rather they get the EVO treatment in 3 pack. Leave the true Vintage nostalgia to the OT. Anytime I see the EP1 red card I have visions of dirty flee markets and clearance bins. That package should never be produced again.......
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 31, 2008, 05:38 PM
I suspect completists would have the biggest problem with the vintage cardbacks for prequel characters, because you'd feel like you "had" to buy them to have a full set.  Since I don't buy anything prequel, it doesn't bother me much; but one thing I don't like is to actually make it a Kenner reproduction (since it never really happened).  If they wanted to start a unified line with all film characters on a cardback STYLE like vintage, I wouldn't see the problem.  But to actually make a fake reproduction makes no sense to me, and frankly kind of insults the greatness of vintage  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on April 2, 2008, 09:53 AM
Perhaps for the Ep1 figures they will reproduce the red cardbacks!!!  Just joking.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Vator on April 2, 2008, 12:23 PM
I am actually in favor of reproducing the Episode I cardbacks. Whereas I was but 9 when that line was released, I do have a certain nostalgia for it.

Title: Re: Hasbro Weekly Q and A
Post by: Jeff on April 4, 2008, 08:29 PM
the latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1207355042,5966,).

- Battle of Mygeeto in April/May, Hoth Speeder Bikes in July.
- No Clone Wars Wave 2 hints yet...
- SDCC Muggs revealed!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2008, 09:31 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1209173093,877,).

- Time for a new Fan Choice Poll?
- 2008 "First Day of Issue" Promotion details.
- Indy, the Ark, and the Staff of Ra...

Also, another note from Hasbro...  look for Q&A summaries to start appearing at Hasbro's site:

Star Wars Q&A on StarWars.Hasbro.com:
As part of our efforts to continue to make starwars.hasbro.com an informational destination and to get the best information out there for collectors, we are plannning to repost the entire Q&A to starwars.hasbro.com one week after we have distributed responses back to collector sites, as a cross-web archive. We think this will give sites ample time to break any Q&A news to their own fans, and, at the same time, give more casual fans coming to starwars.hasbro.com exposure to all of the sites asking questions so they can visit those communities if they choose.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 25, 2008, 10:26 PM
I didn't realize Belloq had the staff of Ra?  I thought he had something else?  Eh, that's cool then I guess but I really hoped for a decent maproom floor piece to put it into like the vintage piece.

Nice to hear more figures from the top 25 coming too.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 25, 2008, 10:47 PM
I didn't realize Belloq had the staff of Ra?  I thought he had something else? 

Yeah, that one confused me... I thought he had an oversized club/staff thingy that certainly isn't the Staff of Ra.

(http://www.hasbrotoyshop.com/Files_Main/4008120c008f_Main400.jpg)(http://www.hasbrotoyshop.com/Files_AltA/4008123b9cd1_A400.jpg)

Maybe it's packed in the bottom of the bubble or maybe they just got confused?   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on April 26, 2008, 12:18 AM
Yeah, he had some ram's head-lookin' thing or something, I'm not quite sure what it was supposed to be exactly.  Defintely wasn't the Staff of Ra, though.

(http://www.theraider.net/films/raiders/gallery/dvdscreenshots/366.jpg)

So they're either confused or just plain lazy.  I'd say it warrants a clarification, myself.  ;)

That Deluxe set is just weird.  The Ark would be outstanding, but the lack of rings and poles kills it for me.  And the Indy is missing stuff, and he wasn't in that outfit with the Ark, anyway.  That set just seems like a rush job to me.

I bet, before the line's through, we'll get a single-carded Map Room Indy, with all his stuff (or maybe in with a Map Room Deluxe/Playset/Cardboard/Battle Pack thing) and I bet we'll get a retooled Ark, most likely in a Well of the Souls Battle Pack or Playset of some kind.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 9, 2008, 08:51 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1210380401,46433,).

- We should see the Force Unleashed Rancor any day now...
- A disturbance at the Lars? (this was asked before the pic popped up this week...  :-\)
- No Rebel Pilots Legacy #2 pics yet...  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 9, 2008, 09:05 PM
Great news about fixing the color on the B-Winger.  I'd have hated to get a purple jumpsuit...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 10, 2008, 01:30 AM
I'd like to see this image of Keyan Farlander as a B-Winger...  The closest thing I can think of is a grainy cut-scene with Luke Skywalker from the B-Wing expansion pack to the original X-Wing PC game.  However, you don't see the guy's face at all and I don't recall you seeing much of his back even.  You mostly see Luke.

Keyan's only image is from a sketch, I believe from an old Star Wars Gamer issue.

EDIT:

By the way I forgot to reply about the Belloq staff...  It's a P.A.G.A.N. staff!

People
Against
Goodness
And
Normalcy

***dances around in goat leggings***
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 13, 2008, 11:26 PM
Matt posted the Q&A compendium and I noticed a number of things being talked about in the Q&A's that didn't get much discussion.  Namely the confirmation of an SA Imperial Officer coming down the pike, which is outstanding.  A "vintage" Death Star Trooper as well?  Death Squad Commander perhaps?  Yes. :)

I also noticed some of the same old same old in the Q&A, but I thought there were some gems in there.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 14, 2008, 09:38 AM
I noticed that too while reading through the compendium yesterday, and I agree Jesse, its great news.  Some brand new, "ultimate" Imperials are definitely welcome - and the comment about the Death Star Trooper makes a return to the vintage line seem possible (which sounded unlikely for a bit there).  I'm really hoping we'll see another VTSC lineup next year now.  I know that we see the same quality in the basic line (for a lower price) more often now, but something about those vintage cards just continues to make them so appealing.  I wouldn't mind seeing at least another wave or two, if possible.

I also noticed they said something about having 18 build-a-droids planned out to the end of 2009.  I'm guessing that includes this year as well, so that gives us an idea maybe of the lineups for next year.  There was some nice confirmations in the Q and A's again this week, but not a lot of talk about them really.  I believe they mentioned one of the figures slotted for this year's repaint wave as well (Coruscant gray Clone), which seems like a good choice.

Quote
Yes indeed, we can confirm that as SA version of the gray-deco Coruscant Landing Platform figure will be coming in a redeco wave later this year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 25, 2008, 07:20 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1211757309,12153,).

- Will there be a 5th Black Pauldron Sandtrooper?
- An idea for "Droids" and "Ewoks" figures...
- A Wal-Mart A-Wing update...

(sorry for the delay, I was out having holiday weekend fun yesterday...)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 26, 2008, 09:07 AM
Thanks for getting the Black Pauldron Sandtrooper question answered. Sadly, their reply makes perfect sense to me.  >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on May 26, 2008, 09:22 AM
Not too happy with the Droids and Ewoks answer. I dont know how much they are considering doing some of these characters. I wonder if these would end up in comic packs.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on May 26, 2008, 10:55 AM
I thought the A-Wing was already confirmed at Toy Fair?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 26, 2008, 10:58 AM
Not too happy with the Droids and Ewoks answer. I dont know how much they are considering doing some of these characters. I wonder if these would end up in comic packs.

Yeah, I thought that to be an odd answer too.  Basically rejected designs (even though McQuarrie's stuff is fantastic) is considered more desirable than produced cartoons and toys from the 80s?  I guess the problem would be whether to make them animated style or realistic, just like the decision over Clone Wars.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 27, 2008, 01:51 AM
I actually was thinking in line with them...  But the cartoons mean jack to me, so I really didn't care to ever see any Droids or Ewoks (especially Ewoks) figures/characters, and especially if in animated style...  While on the otherhand, the McQuarrie Concept Art is something I look upon with reverence as it isn't really rejected ideas...

Most of the ideas were a natural progression, and in many ways turned out true to the film character.  They're something Lucas has expressed a certain love for in the past, and they're just something special to me.  It's all in how you look at it.  I wasn't watching Droids or Ewoks as a kid though.  I was into something else by that point.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on May 27, 2008, 07:50 AM
I think characters from the Ewoks and Droids cartoons will eventually be covered, I also think they will eventually make some figures from the live-action Ewoks movies. They will eventually have to touch on some of these characters if for no other reason than that they will eventually run out of characters.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 27, 2008, 09:10 AM
I thought the A-Wing was already confirmed at Toy Fair?

Since Toy Fair is an industry thing, perhaps they don't consider products shown official until it's announced to the public.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 27, 2008, 09:22 AM
Anton is right... it wasn't "officially announced" at Toy Fair, it was only "previewed" to the press.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 6, 2008, 05:19 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1212787092,45493,).

- GH Cinema Scene update...
- Battle Pack update...
- More Indy Vehicles?

and a follow up from last week:
- There will be no wide-spread release of the rumored Legends v5 Black Pauldron, Clean Sandtrooper.... until 2009.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 8, 2008, 09:36 AM
Confusing follow up answer.  They said in one sentence it was not produced and in the next that it didn't get a widespread release - implying that a quantity of the figure they just said never got made had a limited release. ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on June 8, 2008, 09:56 AM
Confusing follow up answer.  They said in one sentence it was not produced and in the next that it didn't get a widespread release - implying that a quantity of the figure they just said never got made had a limited release. ???


Remembering that the black pauldron version was the same version as the TSC Sandtrooper, my guess is that a handful of them were put together to use as samples since they probably had some spare parts/figures lying around. This is probably how Rebelscum got theirs - a sample from a Hasbro rep. So saying that it was not produced and did not get widespread release is the same thing. Technically it did get released (via handmade samples) but the factory lines were never fired up to mass produce the figure.

So in the long run, yeah the figure (if you can find it/get it) can be had in the Saga Legends packaging but it was never released to the public, which in my mind, makes it a sample/prototype and collecting those types of items opens up a pandora's box of collecting headache when you want to start down the path of prototypes/first shots/hard copies/salesman samples.

So what it really boils down to is whether or not it was ever included in a case pack assortment of Saga Legends and the answer to that question is: "No". Therefore, I personally don't care about the version since I don't seek out un-released pieces - but that's just me. For others out there, your mileage may vary.


Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 9, 2008, 09:36 AM
Then they should say that. It shouldn't be up to us to read between the lines.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on June 9, 2008, 08:28 PM
Then they should say that. It shouldn't be up to us to read between the lines.  ;)

They would NEVER admit that Rebelscum gets sent salesman samples directly from Hasbro. Can you imagine the fall-out from such a move? Everyone and their brother would start a fan collecting site purely with the intent on Hasbro sending them salesman samples for "press" purposes.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 20, 2008, 11:46 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1214019289,50304,).

- SDCC'08 Exclusive Clone Captain = confirmed
- oops!  maybe later tonight/next week?
- Yes - 4 Cantina Aliens in the Fall!  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on June 20, 2008, 11:54 PM
So...Lak Sivrak w/Dice Ibegon? :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rune Haako on June 20, 2008, 11:55 PM
No, Trinto Duaba w/ Dice Ibegon.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 21, 2008, 12:04 AM
We had a bitchin' 2/3 of the Q&A this week.  Nice Jeff...  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 21, 2008, 12:12 AM
I sent them back an e-mail asking what happened to the answer to #2 since all they had pasted in under the question was [Answer].

I'm hoping it was just a cut-and-paste type error that they can fix and that they send a real answer soon... I'll update if/when we get an answer.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rune Haako on June 21, 2008, 02:47 AM
They didn't answer the question pertaining to the B-Wing Pilot for Imperial Shipyards question either, so I think they're just avoiding it for some reason.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 21, 2008, 04:44 PM
Hmmm... I think you might be onto something, Rune. 

At least 3 sites asked about the Dagger Squadron B-Wing and no one got an answer.  I guess it wasn't an oversight/error afterall...  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 21, 2008, 07:12 PM
They gave you the Pawtucket Screwjob.   >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ctonra on June 21, 2008, 10:27 PM
I like this answer to the question about clone wars characters,
http://www.banthaskull.com/
#1: Will we see characters from the upcoming Clone Wars animated movie/series made in the traditional realistically-styled (Legacy Collection or future) line? Is this dependent on the success of the Clone Wars animated line? (TheKid)

We have plans to produce the characters from the Clone Wars series in the realistic style. We are concentrating our efforts and tooling on making the most of each line.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 13, 2008, 04:27 PM
Sorry, life got in the way this weekend so I was a bit delayed in getting to this week's answers (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1215980608,20843,)...

1. probably old news by now...
2. Sandstorm Han - new or kit-bash?
3. a definite answer on TLC wave orders for Waves 3-5...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 14, 2008, 01:55 AM
As per the Han question...

We got this carded shot of Han and he appears to be indeed mostly made up of Vintage Endor Han...

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/1-08/08Legacy_HanCarded_Full.jpg)

Disappointing for a variety of reasons.  The torso's goofy looks aren't really appealing on that figure, and the right thigh should have a holster tie sculpted to it unless they gave him a new right thigh.  The new head, hands, gear, etc. is ok.  And ultimately this figure wasn't ever high on my wishlist anyway so I'm not terribly disappointed simply out of a lack of interest in this deleted scene, but the torso's definitely goofy looking to me and I wish Hasbro would've at least sculpted a new solid torso for him rather than the ball/socket torso.

The pic seems to confirm this figure's mostly vintage Endor Han though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on July 14, 2008, 09:41 PM
At least the bottem part of his shirt is painted.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on July 14, 2008, 10:47 PM
I think it's fine for what it is.  A deleted scene figure that nobody asked for gets moslty VOTC parts.  I doubt I buy it but for what it is it looks okay to me. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 14, 2008, 11:34 PM
Even an articulation stalwart such as myself isn't digging that torso though.  :(  Still I love the gear...  Luke looks pretty spiffy as well.  Luke appears to be made up mostly of 30AC Luke Jedi if my eyes aren't mistaken.  I preferred that to the last Jedi Luke by far...  So I'm cool with both these figures, but again I think some of my attitude is tied to the fact I don't really care about any of them.  Yarna, Bane & Co. are more my interested figures.  I dig cutscene figures and all but this just wasn't a scene I cared for.

Now...  Show me some "Wampa Cut Scene" figures and I'm there.  A Snowtrooper you could dismember would rock.  I'd dig some of the Rebels with the big cannon too.  Maybe removable limbs on them would be equally nifty.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on July 14, 2008, 11:38 PM
Does that Han have an Imperial blaster?  WTF is with that?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Reid on July 15, 2008, 04:12 PM
Does that Han have an Imperial blaster?  WTF is with that?

I believe that's actually the blaster from the McQuarrie Chewie, which makes even less sense.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on July 15, 2008, 05:04 PM
Now...  Show me some "Wampa Cut Scene" figures and I'm there.  A Snowtrooper you could dismember would rock.  I'd dig some of the Rebels with the big cannon too.  Maybe removable limbs on them would be equally nifty.

Was this scene ever filmed? I'd be interested in seeing it if it is.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2008, 10:45 PM
Yes, as stills of it exist, so it was definitely filmed.  It's pretty pointless though...  It's the heroes, and mostly Luke/Han, saying farewell.  Han kind of sentimental if I recall...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on July 15, 2008, 10:57 PM
Does that Han have an Imperial blaster?  WTF is with that?

I believe that's actually the blaster from the McQuarrie Chewie, which makes even less sense.

It does bear a resemblance to the "Jabba Goon" blaster, but its definitely the McChewie blaster. It's probably a case of Hasbro specing the blaster from the OTC Luke or Skiff Guard Lando and the factory saying "this looks close enough" - much like they do with Skywalker hilts and Solo torsos.  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on August 1, 2008, 05:53 PM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1217627437,28978,).

- will the Star Tours Droids be revisited?
- "eerily similar looking generic female patrons"
- still no love for Chewie's family... :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on August 1, 2008, 06:09 PM
It's a bummer to hear that the generic female patrons are still a long shot. :'(

And I also want Lumpy! I hope they get to him soon. :)
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/starwars/images/thumb/7/72/Lumpy.jpg/250px-Lumpy.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on August 2, 2008, 11:11 AM
The Hasbro Q n A team is completely F'in with collectors every time we ask about a Tonnika sisters release.  We should just stop asking and they'll finally make them...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on August 4, 2008, 09:51 AM
I was just looking through the "headlines" of the Q and A over at JediTempleArchives (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=1637), and here are some of the confirmations (subject to change, all that) that Hasbro revealed during this week's sessions:

*on the return of the "vintage" line:
ANSWER:  We can confirm that there is no vintage line in development at this time, but we would like to see it return in 2010 if possible (don't give credit to rumors - they are often founded on wishful thinking).  If and when Vintage returns, it will draw from a mix of all six films.  We would stick with the classic silver & black if we did it rather than recreate/reinterpret the different films.  The spirit of vintage, to us and most fans, is rooted in the classic Kenner line.

*Lumiya on the way in Wave 1 2009 Comic Packs

*Wave 4 General Grievous has arms that split (not extra set of arms), but no cape included

*A re-do of Wicket, Teebo or Paploo will be on the way in 2009 (they didn't specify which one)

*2X-7KPR (Purchase of the Droids Scene) will show up somewhere in 2009

*Multiple Jabba's (Clone Wars and regular) likely on the way towards the end of 2009

*Basic Carded Wedge Antilles (didn't specify which) likely on the way in 2009

*Won't have to wait "too long" for PT Owen and Beru Lars, if plans hold

*Malikili resculpt in 2009

Some pretty good stuff in there, and I'm personally happy to see more OT goodness rumored.  A basic carded Wedge would be great, a new Jabba is really exciting, as well as re-dos of the Ewoks (hopefully Wicket first).  I'm a little disappointed (but not surprised, from pics) that Grievous isn't coming with a cape.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on August 4, 2008, 11:21 AM
Great news, there.  I'd love to see a Wicket/Paploo 2-pack, both at their proper small scale.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on August 4, 2008, 02:04 PM
It's a bummer to hear that the generic female patrons are still a long shot. :'(

Don't you realize that the answer of NO from Hasbro really means YES. (ie. BMF)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on August 5, 2008, 04:24 PM
Has a Geonosian Command Platform been confirmed anywhere? It would seem so according to BanthaSkull:

BanthaSkull.com: So you’ve come through with the AT-TE, various Republic Gunships, AATs, Hailfire Droids, and the Homing Spider Droid. You’re releasing a Geonosis Command Platform, and now Phase I clones are back in vogue. Any chance, assuming a home run with the AT-TE, that you will continue to bolster the Battle of Geonosis’ participants forces by making the SPHA-T?(DarthDre)
Hasbro: Well, that would be an ambitious one, but honestly it’s very unlikely it will ever happen in 3-3/4”. There are a good number of “larger” vehicles ahead of it if we get the chance to do any more.


No sure if I missed this bit of news or what. Can anyone confirm?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on August 5, 2008, 04:55 PM
I think that was the old "let's slip a rumored item into the question and see if they bite" trick...

The "Geonosian Command Platform" thingy has not been confirmed anywhere, but a "Forward Base Alpha" was listed on a RS rumor report (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/New_Rumor_List_For_The_Legacy_Collection_115275.asp) and many speculated that item might be one of those Geonosis Platforms but from the Animated Series, and thus the basis of the yet-to-be-revealed 2nd Target UBP.

I am pretty sure they were just tossing it out there hoping to get Hasbro to accidentally confirm it without realizing it...  unless I missed an official confirmation someplace too.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on August 6, 2008, 02:58 PM
Thanks Jeff, that's what I thought.
I think it's a solid possibility and one that can be used in the next Q&A for a double dose of "accidental confirmation" trick if you quote their question.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on August 17, 2008, 10:37 PM
This week's answers... (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1219026942,61109,)

1.  a Willrow update
2.  Woof = confirmed for 2009
3.  DLX Indy rumors squished!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on August 17, 2008, 11:56 PM
The jubilation of Wooof and the disappointment of Indy. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on August 18, 2008, 12:02 AM
I wonder what they're implying with "generously proportioned physique"?  He's not fat, right?  His clothes are a little baggy...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JangoTat on August 18, 2008, 12:10 AM
I wonder what they're implying with "generously proportioned physique"?  He's not fat, right?  His clothes are a little baggy...


maybe they are refering to the fact that his sculpt can then be reused to make other figures?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on August 18, 2008, 12:14 AM
I wonder what they're implying with "generously proportioned physique"?  He's not fat, right?  His clothes are a little baggy...

He's not fat.  He's big-boned.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on August 18, 2008, 02:21 AM
The Legacy Collection is turning out to be a great year for fans looking to see the remaining vintage figures redone in the modern line: B-Wing Pilot, Silver Death Star Droid (via a Build-a-Droid), (rumored) Imperial Dignitary Sim Aloo and Jabba's Palace Guard Klaatu (Wooof).

That's not too shabby. Throw in rumored Bespin Guards (hopefully this time in African-American and Disco Moustache varieties) and Hoth Echo Base Rebel Troopers and you're looking at the list dwindling down to just Ewoks.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on August 18, 2008, 06:47 AM
Great news about Wooof, more bad news about the Indy line though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on August 18, 2008, 07:48 AM
Great news about Wooof, more bad news about the Indy line though.

Very good news indeed about Wooof.

But I think anyone who's been in a toy store in the past couple of months saw the writing on the wall about the Indy line.  I didn't really need the Q&A's to tell me a whole lot about Indy's future.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 18, 2008, 10:16 AM
The Legacy Collection is turning out to be a great year for fans looking to see the remaining vintage figures redone in the modern line: B-Wing Pilot, Silver Death Star Droid (via a Build-a-Droid), (rumored) Imperial Dignitary Sim Aloo and Jabba's Palace Guard Klaatu (Wooof).

That's not too shabby. Throw in rumored Bespin Guards (hopefully this time in African-American and Disco Moustache varieties) and Hoth Echo Base Rebel Troopers and you're looking at the list dwindling down to just Ewoks.

I concur. Nice to know they're not forgetting about those left yet to do.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on September 9, 2008, 12:07 PM
Some pretty good stuff semi-confirmed in the Q and A's this week, I'm particularly happy to hear that a new Snowspeeder is in the works.  Here's a few highlights I noticed when reading the sessions from around the web:

-New Snowspeeder in the works, sounds like 2010
-Wicket and Logray Resculpts likely within 1-2 years
-New "classic" Jabba mentioned, plans are in the works, and it will be "worth the wait"
-New, SA Hoth Rebel Trooper in 2009, New Rebel Fleet Trooper in 2010 a possibility
-New Gungan (not Jar Jar) in 2009
-Clone Wars Animated Kit Fisto in 2009
-Beak removable from upcoming Sarlacc Pit
-New Republic Commando in 2009 Evolutions Pack
-Clone Wars Animated Jabba "late in the year" (not sure if its 08 or 09), released in the Battle Pack series
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on September 9, 2008, 02:11 PM
Good news about Jabba...it really is about time.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on September 9, 2008, 05:29 PM
WHAT THE HELL HASBRO?!?

I want a damn SA Jar Jar Binks, not some stupid random ass Gungan I have to army build. >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 9, 2008, 08:44 PM
not some stupid random ass Gungan I have to army build. >:(

The rumor mill says it's a new Captain Tarpals and not a "stupid random ass Gungan".  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on September 9, 2008, 09:59 PM
Oh... well...

WHAT THE HELL HASBRO?!?

I want a damn SA Jar Jar Binks, not some stupid random ass Gungan I have to army build Captain Tarpals. >:(

... fixed.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 10, 2008, 12:18 AM
I'd have preferred the warrior actually.  Genericness rocks.  Jar Jar, I'd take...  Hell, I'll take Tarpals too, but the warrior just makes more sense to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Force Guy on September 10, 2008, 01:03 AM
I want a damn SA Jar Jar Binks

Me too, provided that they include a guillotine accessory to go with it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darthjaybay on September 26, 2008, 02:03 PM
What happened to Hasbro's answers?  I thought they were due on the 23rd?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on October 21, 2008, 11:07 AM
Did we submit questions for the last Q&A?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on October 21, 2008, 11:08 AM
I think not.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 21, 2008, 03:04 PM
Yes, but no reply from them.  If I can get it worked out I'll post them.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 22, 2008, 04:40 AM
No Q&A this week...  Apparantly was sent in late, which is my bad.  I thought I'd made the deadline.  It's a transition thing so bear with the site while we change over.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on November 8, 2008, 08:14 AM
Over at GH Hasbro confirmed that they are finishing off the the purchase of the droids scene with the final droid needed in a later 2009 wave. It will be packed with another Jawa  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on November 8, 2008, 09:07 AM
They can finish off Purchase of the Droids, but they can't even come close to filling one of the skiffs? It's a madhouse.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on November 8, 2008, 11:09 AM
Very cool news. Now if only I had a sandcrawler....
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ryan on November 11, 2008, 12:02 AM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1226379026,57577,).

- Will we see any more Clone Wars 2-D figures?
- Any more big accessories in battlepacks?
- Any chance of a new E-Web?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on November 11, 2008, 08:57 AM
Never thought about a new E-web gun. Cool that they're looking into it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on November 11, 2008, 10:54 AM
It's interesting to me that Hasbro is generally doing many things we collectors love, often surprising us, but the Q and A sessions still offer little.  I'd rather it this way of course (obscure answers but actual product), but they could be a little more forthcoming.  An example is how reluctant they were about EU product, then in the past year we've been drowned by it!  The BMF and some of the playset type scenes... all of which they SAY there's no market for, but still produce.  Ah well, at least we get little tidbits of info here and there.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 11, 2008, 12:51 PM
They're not sure onthe market for new vehicles, and I agree it's too early to tell since we're not even in full swing with holiday shopping...  I know near me the Falcon hasn't moved much.  AT-TE's did a bit better by my estimation, but mostly at Target where they were on sale early.  I still can't find TE's there.  Falcons though, I see at WM's, TRU's, and Targets... 

Is there a market for it?  I think so, but only the end holiday rush will tell of it beyond the obvious collector market for it.

EU got tested with those first comic packs I think, and those did insanely well...  All comic packs do well really, and even get reshipped and still sell I've noticed.  The only ones that pegwarm almost instantly are Marvel repaint sets, which who would want them if you were a casual buyer really?  They're weird looking and don't have anything new/exciting really either.  EU I think has surprised Hasbro with its level of popularity.  I think some people, even if they don't know the source, find the characters appealing looking and want them...  Kids, and even collectors like myself, can be drawn into buying figures from stories we don't know.  I know I know nothing of Legacy with that Skywalker descendant and stuff, but I want a figure of that Sith Twi Lek and I bought the "Imperial Knights" becuase those are some badass action figures.

I don't know the story, nor do I really care to know it, but the figures are neat. :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on November 11, 2008, 10:34 AM
The latest Hasbro QnA has been posted (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1226379026,57577,).

- Will we see any more Clone Wars 2-D figures?
- Any more big accessories in battlepacks?
- Any chance of a new E-Web?

This link isn't working for me, not even from the front page. ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 11, 2008, 10:46 AM
Chris has some server stuff going on...  To sum up though, Hasbro says no to CW 2D figures for the most part, they have a new E-Web in the works, probably for 2010, and Battlepacks like the Yavin Scramble set are great for collectors but don't count on more of them very often as BP's are usually aimed at kids.

The E-Web was a surprise, and a good one...  That needs a facelift IMO, and I'd love to see Hasbro try and make it fold up so it can be carried by snowtrooper figures.  The CW2D news is a disappointing surprise.  I guess Wave 2 of Legacy was pretty much Hasbro looking to close the book on CW2D stuff, and they said basically don't expect any figure ever from the Arena fight with Assajj...

Guess the poll for CW2D was sorta unnecessary. :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on November 11, 2008, 12:32 PM
Sams club is packed with AT-TEs for $89.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on November 11, 2008, 10:52 PM
Honest question:  Does anyone ever actually read (or otherwise get any use out of) the Q&A compendium anymore?

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on November 11, 2008, 11:05 PM
I still read it...  but whether I get any use from it or not is totally dependant on the quality of the questions asked and answered.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on November 12, 2008, 08:08 AM
I still use it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sprry75 on November 12, 2008, 08:11 AM
I use it all the time.  It's great (although probably a monster pain in the ass...).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on November 12, 2008, 09:17 AM
I, too, indulge in the compendium.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on November 12, 2008, 10:01 AM
I read it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on November 12, 2008, 04:00 PM
I use it all the time.  It's great (although probably a monster pain in the ass...).

A little bit.  But I don't mind doing it as long as people are actually reading it.

Anyway, thanks all for the feedback.

(Anyone else who doesn't ever read this thread, please feel free to respond, as well.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on November 12, 2008, 04:19 PM
(Anyone else who doesn't ever read this thread, please feel free to respond, as well.)

I usually just go to Scum for their roundup. 

No offense though Matt.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on November 12, 2008, 04:42 PM
The thing with Scum's roundup is they don't include the answers, you have to link to the websites, but I can't always connect to them, so its nice getting all the answer together.  But that's just my 2 cents.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on November 12, 2008, 04:59 PM
Good point Kenobi, but the compendium thread isn't always updated in time so I just go that route because I'm impatient.  It's like my Monday morning coffee.  I must say that it is a fantastic knowledge base though and a great read.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on November 12, 2008, 05:40 PM
I use it all the time.  It's great (although probably a monster pain in the ass...).

A little bit.  But I don't mind doing it as long as people are actually reading it.

Anyway, thanks all for the feedback.

(Anyone else who doesn't ever read this thread, please feel free to respond, as well.)

Without a doubt, it's nice to have. 

And as much as you hate praise, from the bottom of my heart,

"THANK YOU MATTHEW."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JangoTat on November 12, 2008, 09:32 PM
I rely on it for the answers lol. My computer is crap so most of the sites wont load up and if it does it crashes my explorer so your thread helps a bunch :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 12, 2008, 11:13 PM
I use it Matt...  I could go elsewhere to check it out but it's more easy to use here.  Everyone decided to copy your format, even Hasbro, but I still go to yours since it's here.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on November 13, 2008, 02:00 AM
The thing with Scum's roundup is they don't include the answers, you have to link to the websites, but I can't always connect to them, so its nice getting all the answer together.  But that's just my 2 cents.

JTA'S Q&A Roundup (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=1681.0)

JTA'S Q&A Headline Report (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=1682.0)


I've been working on this at JTA since I joined the staff there.  And I carried the concept over from The Jawa when I was on the staff there.  No offense Matt.  I've been doing this too since Hasbro decided to start doing Q&A sessions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on November 16, 2008, 04:43 PM
I usually just go to Scum for their roundup. 

No offense though Matt.

I've been working on this at JTA since I joined the staff there.  And I carried the concept over from The Jawa when I was on the staff there.  No offense Matt.

Whatever.  I am deeply, deeply offended.

Without a doubt, it's nice to have. 

And as much as you hate praise, from the bottom of my heart,

"THANK YOU MATTHEW."

The only person that's allowed to call me Matthew is my grandmother, and she's been dead for eleven years.

But even then, she wasn't allowed to call me Matthew in 40-point text.

Anyway, thanks again all for the feedback.  Be back in three years for more.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on December 6, 2008, 12:40 AM
Wow, this may be the best Q and A session yet!  I haven't even read all of them yet, but so far the cantina and old Ben tables have been confirmed, a new Nikto coming, jawa and another droid, a new rebel pilots set with Red 4, and another ANH wave among others!  Great week  :-*
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on December 6, 2008, 02:40 PM
Oh, and I forgot to mention that they confirmed another McQuarrie figure AND a Johnston concept figure in the EU wave!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 6, 2008, 04:11 PM
Along with concept figures from artists Sang Jun Lee and Derek Thompson.  They both worked on the Prequel Trilogy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 8, 2008, 10:04 AM
Yeah, I thought this was a nice week of Q and A's as well.  All the stuff that Daigo-Bah mentioned above, it all sounds great.  I really like the OT focus that seems to be on the way next year, after having this year be so light on that area overall.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 12, 2008, 09:16 AM
Yay! A compendium update.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 20, 2008, 02:16 AM
WOW!  Hasbro surprises with a Q&A session just before Christmas.  There's a little more info on Coleman Trebor.  A possible new Nein Nunb.  Some details about the Super Vulture Droid.  Hints at a Tank Droid.  An updated Stormtrooper.  And the Evolutions Clone Pilot is on the way back out in Saga Legends.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 21, 2008, 09:50 AM
And the Evolutions Clone Pilot is on the way back out in Saga Legends.

Which one?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 21, 2008, 01:43 PM
The AOTC Evolutions Pilot.  A very underrated figure in my book.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 22, 2008, 09:08 AM
The AOTC Evolutions Pilot.  A very underrated figure in my book.

Agreed, I was just going through some figures this weekend and looked at that one again.  Really a nicely done figure, and a great choice for the "Greatest Hits" treatment.  Pretty much an "ultimate" AOTC-style Clone Pilot, well done.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on December 22, 2008, 09:35 AM
The AOTC Evolutions Pilot.  A very underrated figure in my book.

Agreed, I was just going through some figures this weekend and looked at that one again.  Really a nicely done figure, and a great choice for the "Greatest Hits" treatment.  Pretty much an "ultimate" AOTC-style Clone Pilot, well done.

Although it is a nice figure, I'm not a fan of the non-articulated torso and waist. If they included just the Pilot helmet with the SA EIII Clone body I think that would be a better figure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 22, 2008, 09:37 AM
The AOTC Evolutions Pilot.  A very underrated figure in my book.

Sure. I like the other one too, though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 23, 2008, 09:43 AM
Nice round of questions on JD's part this week. Great to know about the Canon and Sled.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Captain Piet on December 30, 2008, 11:59 AM
The AOTC Evolutions Pilot.  A very underrated figure in my book.

Completely agree.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: DoctorPadawan on January 31, 2009, 05:15 PM
My favorite "Vintage Hasbro Evasion" answer from the latest Q&A (specifically from TheJawa.com (http://www.sandtroopers.com/smf/index.php?topic=8437.msg223162#msg223162):

Quote
With oil being so much cheaper of late (under $50 a barrel) will Hasbro forgo it's decision to include only four figures per battlepack and return to including fifth figure?

And Hasbro's response, which should now rank right up there with that 1998 classic of "We understand there is a great desire for (insert character here), and we are exploring ways to incorporate him/her/it into the line in the future":

Quote
There are many factors, not just the price of commodities, that affect what we include in packs (labor, packaging, cube size, and pricing are all critical elements).  Suffice it to say Value is an important attribute of Battle Packs, and we try and include as much as possible to be as appealing as possible.

In other words, "You'll take your four figures at 23 bucks and you'll like it, peons!  By the way, have you seen our 75 dollar ARC-170?  HASBRO = VALUE!"

 ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on January 31, 2009, 09:08 PM
A couple interesting tidbits from this latest round:
1) New Gamorrean Guard in the next 2 years
2) New Han in this year's later ANH wave
3) A couple new cantina aliens in that same wave (neither of which is Bom Vimdin)
4) BG-J38 (from Jabba's Palace) will be a BAD in early 2010! Link: http://banthaskull.com/forums/showthread.php?p=89128#post89128
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on February 2, 2009, 09:13 AM
A couple interesting tidbits from this latest round:
1) New Gamorrean Guard in the next 2 years
2) New Han in this year's later ANH wave
3) A couple new cantina aliens in that same wave (neither of which is Bom Vimdin)
4) BG-J38 (from Jabba's Palace) will be a BAD in early 2010! Link: http://banthaskull.com/forums/showthread.php?p=89128#post89128


I was glad to hear that a new Gamorrean is at least on their radar.  That's a figure that I think could really get knocked out of the park these days (not that the POTF2 is all that bad either).  Glad to hear there's another new Han on the way this year, although its disappointing it won't be the "ultimate" Bespin version yet.  Since its the ANH wave, it almost has to be the ceremonial Han, doesn't it?  We're already getting the Stormtrooper one in the current wave, and unless they are (finally) repacking the VOTC Han, there isn't a whole lot else to do for Han from ANH.  I really think that the VOTC Han, Leia, EB Chewie, and even VOTC Luke should be rotated into either the Legends assortment or packed in as "Greatest Hits" figures alongside waves like this.

I noticed in one of the Q and A's (I don't remember the site now for sure) asked about OT vehicles, and it sounds like there wouldn't be anything "new" released in 2009, but some exclusive stuff later in the year (probably things like the rumored Wedge X-Wing, etc.)  Not that I'm surprised, but I was sort of hoping for some more re-done OT ships.  Of course, you can never know with Hasbro's answers anymore, since the Imperial Shuttle/Falcon/etc. situations.  I'm still holding out for a re-done Snowspeeder in 2010 for Empire's 30th Anniversary.

One trend I've noticed in this round of Q and A's is a lot of Hasbro talking about how great the CW line is doing, and how much attention it will be getting.  I can totally understand it - the show is great, and with kids getting into it too, it makes sense for it to be getting lots of attention.  I just hope that we don't start seeing less and less of "Legacy" type stuff, until we're just barraged with CW merchandise and almost nothing else.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on February 27, 2009, 12:55 PM
Do we get answers today?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on February 27, 2009, 12:57 PM
In theory, as long as the schedule hasn't slipped again, there should be answers to the questions submitted between Jan 16th - Jan 30th.

It will be interesting to see if we get any actual "news" from the answers since the questions are all 4-6 weeks old at this point...  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on February 27, 2009, 02:07 PM
I wonder if any site asked about the Hoth trooper's skirt and Hasbro graces us with a pic.  Also, some hints about which cantina aliens are coming in the next ANH wave would be cool too!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on February 28, 2009, 10:32 AM
Scum (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_67th_Toy_Fair_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_121350.asp) had a blurb about the skirt, no picture though.  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on March 1, 2009, 12:40 PM
I wonder if any site asked about the Hoth trooper's skirt and Hasbro graces us with a pic. 

Well, this very site asked it, and we got no answer to the plastic vs soft goods question, nor a pic  >:(.  It's funny the way they promote the small number of omitted skirts as collectors' items too.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 2, 2009, 01:03 AM
The Q&A was pretty much all old pre-toy fair stuff, so it wasn't a great one...  Still Hasbro tried to make the answers interesting.  At least we know the trooper's coming with a skirt piece as they mentioned at TF and now again...  I'm pretty sure at TF it was mentioned it'd be cloth, but I can't recall where I read that.  I'm pleased as I prefer soft goods generally, for poseability.  I'd love a HOth Han with "soft goods" coat bottom so he could ride a Taun Taun or something.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on March 2, 2009, 08:56 AM
The Q&A was pretty much all old pre-toy fair stuff, so it wasn't a great one...  Still Hasbro tried to make the answers interesting.  At least we know the trooper's coming with a skirt piece as they mentioned at TF and now again...  I'm pretty sure at TF it was mentioned it'd be cloth, but I can't recall where I read that.  I'm pleased as I prefer soft goods generally, for poseability.  I'd love a HOth Han with "soft goods" coat bottom so he could ride a Taun Taun or something.

I've always been a fan of soft goods as well.  I liked it in the vintage line and (when done well) in the modern line too.  I like your Hoth Han idea Jesse, and I keep hoping that we'll see an all-new Taun Taun in the next couple years.  One of my favorite parts of the OT.  Anyways, not a whole lot new from the Q and A's, but I guess that is to be expected.  I noticed a couple of sites asked about the success of the BMF, and Hasbro - while not listing the BMF specifically - said that the big vehicle line was a success and that was why we are seeing the Juggernaut and $60 deluxe line of vehicles later this year.  It sounds like just one "big" vehicle this year, which is fine with me.  I keep holding out hope we'll see an all-new OT offering next year (maybe Slave 1 or AT-AT for the Empire 30th anniversary).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on March 4, 2009, 09:48 PM
My favorite exchange from the latest round of Q&As:

Quote
Sandtroopers:  How does a new paint job and box justify a $30 price increase on an "exclusive" that just came out in December?

     Hasbro:  We're not sure what you are referring to.  Care to elaborate?

I've been quite apathetic about this stuff for, oh, at least a good year or so now, but this really brings me back to the good ol' days.  Well done, 'Troopers.  Way to stick it to The Man.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on March 21, 2009, 02:19 PM
I found this answer, given to Han's Hideout this week (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/03/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-8.html), to be somewhat curious:

Quote
2. The Clone Wars Nikto Bounty Hunter figure - we know he's not coming in the Jabba Battle Pack anymore, but can you confirm that he will make it out at some point in the near future? He's such a great figure, we'd love to get him sooner rather than later!

** Right now he does not have a home, but because he is tooled it is guaranteed that he will eventually come out either as a basic figure or part of an exclusive. He's a great figure, we're just looking for the best way to get him into the line.

Yet Indy Wave 5 (Raiders Wave 2) was tooled. . .  Grumble, grumble. . .
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on March 21, 2009, 07:01 PM
Sounds like some website should point out this hypocrisy to Hasbro in the next round of Q&A's... ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on March 22, 2009, 12:25 PM
Decent news this week out of the Q&A sessions.  But I'm surprised at some of the sites that haven't posted their Q&A's.  I wonder if some of the folks who were submitting missed the deadlines.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on March 22, 2009, 12:40 PM
Funny Hasbro quote from the Q&A with some otheR S (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_68th_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_121437.asp)ite:

"2010 looks great as well, as long as schedules hold of course..."

 ;D

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on March 23, 2009, 10:22 AM
There was a few nuggets of info from this week's Q and A's, although GH getting a pic of the skiff guard was probably the highlight.  Hopefully Hasbro will dole out a few more of those to various sites in the coming months so we can get a better idea of some of the fall offerings that are on the way.  It also looks like the Titanium line is done (or "on hiatus") as of the end of this year.  They also mentioned (I forget which site) that the battle packs will be going back to the "slim pack" in fall of 2010, so I guess that will be the end of the larger items (like in the Yavin pack) or characters like Jabba coming in the battle packs.  They specifically mention that you better "buy 'em while you can" with the Gunship pod packs.  I was happy to hear that an all-new Admiral Ackbar should be on the way in 2010 (or possibly 2011).  That's a resculpt I've really been looking forward to, along with a new Gam. Guard.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on March 24, 2009, 02:24 PM
Looks like Hasbro confirmed to SWAN that the last 4 astromech BADs of the year are going to be R5-H6 & R3-O1, and R4-P44 & R3-A2.

Also saw that Hasbro acknowledged that the R2 that's coming with Wedge's X-Wing does not match the one that is seen onscreen, but that it is the deco requested by Lucasfilm.  Too bad about that.  I'm going to call it his ESB droid, and hold out hope that they are able to revisit Wedge's astro in a 2-pack or something in the future so I can get his Yavin droid with the bright red dome.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on March 24, 2009, 03:09 PM
I rwally wish we could have gotten Leebo
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on March 25, 2009, 12:30 AM
Looks like Hasbro confirmed to SWAN that the last 4 astromech BADs of the year are going to be R5-H6 & R3-O1, and R4-P44 & R3-A2.

Great choices for the BADs!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 25, 2009, 10:18 AM
Looks like Hasbro confirmed to SWAN that the last 4 astromech BADs of the year are going to be R5-H6 & R3-O1, and R4-P44 & R3-A2.

Great choices for the BADs!

Which movies are those Astromechs from?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on March 25, 2009, 11:07 AM
Looks like Hasbro confirmed to SWAN that the last 4 astromech BADs of the year are going to be R5-H6 & R3-O1, and R4-P44 & R3-A2.

Great choices for the BADs!

Which movies are those Astromechs from?

R5-H6 is supposed to be from the pod-race scene in TPM.
R3-O1 is probably the blue bodied, clear domed R3 on the death star in ANH
R4-P44 is from ROTS (not sure where, I think as an astrodroid for a clone ship)
R3-A2 is on Hoth in ESB.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on March 25, 2009, 12:54 PM
Which movies are those Astromechs from?

R4-P44 is from ROTS (not sure where, I think as an astrodroid for a clone ship)
[/quote]

He's on Obi-Wan's starfighter to Utapau.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on March 25, 2009, 12:58 PM
He's on Obi-Wan's starfighter to Utapau.

I think that's actually R4-G9.

Wow, I'm such a nerd.  :-[
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on March 25, 2009, 01:02 PM

I think that's actually R4-G9.

Wow, I'm such a nerd.  :-[

Darnit, that nerd beat this nerd.

I think R4-P44 is a mostly silver deco with a green-blue dome.

http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/R4-P44

Though instead he'll be the R4 unit that was transferred into a Protocol droid's body as will be newly established by LFL.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on March 25, 2009, 05:49 PM
Is R3-A2 the clear domed droid Hasbro put in one of the very first battle packs from 2002/2003? I think it was some kind of TRU exclusive Hoth set
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on March 25, 2009, 06:02 PM
That's the same designation, whether it'll be the same design, i don't know.  I've watched the droid on ebay and he's kind of pricey.  If this is the same droid, I wonder if that old design will drop in price.  I'm sure a lot of the droid collectors won't be too excited about that, i think they'd like to have a new one instead.  I'll be ok with it since it'll let me get this guy one way or the other...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on March 25, 2009, 06:26 PM
Is R3-A2 the clear domed droid Hasbro put in one of the very first battle packs from 2002/2003? I think it was some kind of TRU exclusive Hoth set

Yup.  It came out in 2003.  That set was called the Battle of Hoth.

Obviously the design is going to be different.  The bodies of BAF astromechs all have 4 leg sockets and the removable center leg.  Plus, Hasbro has yet to do a clear dome astromech in the BAF droid series.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on March 26, 2009, 12:38 AM
He's on Obi-Wan's starfighter to Utapau.

I think that's actually R4-G9.

Wow, I'm such a nerd.  :-[

Oops, misread the info on him. While he wasn't on the starfighter (I thought that wasn't right), he was assigned to Obi-Wan's forces to Utapau.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on March 26, 2009, 11:00 AM
Thanks for the info and the entertainment guys!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 10, 2009, 08:09 PM
I noticed in this week's Hasbro Q and A at RS, they confirm that there will be a couple "new takes" on C-3PO on the way later this year and 2010 (although the TPM one is not one of those versions).  Hopefully we'll see a new SA 3PO (maybe using the build-a-droid and/or 4-LOM as bases/inspiration) and I think we're well overdue for a nice AOTC version.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 11, 2009, 08:49 PM
One of the things that has me disappointed from this week's Q&A's is the response to the question regarding any more Clone Wars astromechs - especially droids for Obi-Wan's new Jedi Starfighter.

Their response that we could just use the realistic line's R4 with the ship totally proves to me that just don't understand why collectors were so negative about the two different styles before the lines premiered. If I want to display the new Obi-Wan starfighter with my Clone Wars figures, I want the astromech to be one of the animated style droids. I mean really, how hard could it be to pump out a couple of repaints of the Goldie figure?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on April 11, 2009, 10:04 PM
I thought this was one of the more interesting answers this week from SSG:

SSG: When it comes to prequel Senators, we haven't seen much lately. The most asked of them is the Senator Grebleips figure, the E.T. alien - will we ever be getting this figure, is it just unlikely because it's a background alien, or is it totally off-limits because it's an easter egg from another film? Also, what about seeing senate figures from Ep 1 like Edcel Bar Gane, Sei Taria, Toonbuck Toora and Mot-Not Rab?

Hasbro: Senator and Separatist figures have been very slow sellers for us, so while we're not ruling them out, they are not high on our list of figures to target. We're confident that we'll get around to more some day, especially if the collector base rebounds as these figures are 100% collector-targeted. Until then, they'll stay on the sidelines. Grebleips is off limits per Lucasfilm, joining (among a few others) the oft-asked for female Cantina denizens, Holiday Special live action figures, and Tyvokka as figures we cannot/will not pursue.

It sucks but i had heard we could not get the ET figure and the Holiday Special figures, and we knew about the Tonnika sisters but why Tyvokka. Whats the story with not being able to get a Wookie Jedi?

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 11, 2009, 11:46 PM
Apparently Lucas has something against Wookiees being Jedi.  There's supposedly an edict for the EU that the only Wookiee Jedi will now and forever be Tyvokka and Lowbacca.  And apparently this extends to Hasbro not making a Tyvokka figure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: stan on April 12, 2009, 06:34 PM
Lt Sheckil, Williard Hood, Bespin Security Guard, Luke Snowspeeder Pilot are coming later this year!!!  Trying to find out the last two figures in the ESB wave. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ryan on April 12, 2009, 07:06 PM
Lt Sheckil, Williard Willrow Hood, Bespin Security Guard, Luke Snowspeeder Pilot are coming later this year!!!  Trying to find out the last two figures in the ESB wave. 

Fixed.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: stan on April 12, 2009, 08:12 PM
Thank You, Ryan
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 13, 2009, 09:40 AM
One thing that was a little concerning to me in this week's batch of Q and A's (and seemed fairly prevalent across the sites), was Hasbro mentioning how much sales had slowed on Droid Factory/Legends stuff (basically anything non-CW).  I read in a number of Q and A's at JD, GH, and a couple other places that while the line as a whole is doing well, it is mainly due to kids and the CW stuff.  As you can see here at JD's Q and A, the Force Unleashed wave is now going to be an exclusive battle pack or something, and other "collector focused" releases are going to be more scaled back.  I don't think we're going to lose the Legacy figures or anything like that, but it really seems like Clone Wars stuff is going to get the bulk of the focus for the next few years.

I wouldn't say that the Legacy/movie-based stuff has sold poorly here locally, aside from a couple of pegwarmers (Yarna, Legends Plo Koon) - and the entire line seems to sell through here pretty well for the most part.  Has anyone else noticed a big lag in sales of the "realistic" stuff in the line overall?  I can totally understand the focus on CW right now, but I hate to see less and less movie stuff being made.  I can see any non-CW vehicles or beasts being exclusives from now on, and less focus on Legacy stuff.  It often seems like when Hasbro mentions something across several Q and A's like this, they are sort of "preparing" the collector base for changes in some instances.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 13, 2009, 10:32 AM
I was taking note of that too Brian. It's a little humbling. In addition the impact from the economic situation, I'm sure there's also a lot of waning interest, a lot of collectors who have been doing this a long time and have just run out of room or simply got board. I know the room thing is having an effect on me, and as I think about what I really care about, in terms of collecting, the PT is becoming less and less important because it doesn't hold a candle to the OT in terms of quality of the source material.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 13, 2009, 11:01 AM
Yeah, I've had similar thoughts on what I really need to collect at this point - but haven't really made as many changes as I should I guess.  I'll always collect the OT stuff, and probably a lot of the PT "movie" stuff (at least the figures), but I'm starting to really give thought to beyond that what I want/need to buy anymore.  Like others, space is a big issue anymore (and the wife has told me it can't leave our office, so its getting tight) - and budgeting is more of a concern these days as well.  Although the prices are starting to get (too) high, it seems like there is just so much nice stuff out there these days (and not just in SW).  It is interesting to see Hasbro coming right out and basically saying (in their own words) "Legacy stuff is slowing down considerably" and "CW is carrying the line".  I guess we've seen a number of people here on the forums either quit, slow down, or talk about cutting back - but it still seemed (at least locally) that this stuff was selling about as quickly as it always has.  I will say that I've seen, as an example, the Spacetrooper figure a number of times and I can remember a time in collecting where that would have been such a hot figure that you'd blink and miss it forever.  Not that it is a plentiful figure, far from it, but it hasn't been difficult to locate here locally either.  Anyways, it was interesting.

On the bright side, its nice to get some positive news from the Q and A's this week as well.  I'm glad to hear that there are a couple new takes on 3PO coming up, and I'm hoping one is a SA "ultimate" 3PO (although the Ewok diety one is pretty nice) and/or an all-new AOTC version of C-3PO.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 13, 2009, 11:22 AM
With their comment on cutting the number of upcoming "100% collector-focused figures" I wonder if they are rapidly trying to figure out how to cut Wilrow to one per case and (hopefully) cut Malakili all together.  The kids are really wanting *action* figures these days.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on April 13, 2009, 12:00 PM
I wonder if they are rapidly trying to *SNIP* (hopefully) cut Malakili all together.

I'm dreading his release. The POTF2 version was still at TRUs in 2002 around here. :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 13, 2009, 12:07 PM
i think instead of Hasbro talking about their slow sales numbers they should lean a little heavier on their major retail partners (Walmart, Target, TRU, etc.) to work a little better on the sales volume.  By that i mean actually trying to move product through the store.  The Super Wally we do our grocery shopping at has three pegs of Yarna and that's it for basic figures.  No clone wars, no legends and no other legacy.  I could understand if the pegs looked like that three days after Christmas, but its April now, they should be maintaining a much larger stock.  And this isn't something particularly new.  Every time I've been in that store, I don't visit very many Walmarts to compare it to, its been the same lack of selection.  (Somewhat amusingly, someone has moved all the Yarnas to three pegs on the bottom row to show how the other 20 odd pegs are empty).  I've had a similar experience at Target, only stocking Clone Wars and TRU must only be getting cases of Yarna and Plo Koon.

I think Hasbro needs to do a better job making sure a selection of their product is on the shelves in these stores, and the stores need to do a better job of managing what items sell and which don't.  I bet the toy manager, or whoever, looks in the computer and sees that they have 30 figures left, and the restock threshold is 25, so they don't restock, without caring that the 30 are the same 30 that were on the shelf two weeks ago (this store has a one Moff Jerjerod on clearance for $5.00, for the last three year, uhm, how about making it $1.50 and getting it out the door).

I find it interesting that last year Star Wars was the best selling toy brand, driven in large part by the release of realistic figure, etc.  Yet this year the realistic figures are the anchor holding the line down.  It just feels like Hasbro is really slow with releasing product and the retailers are even slower moving that product to their shelves.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 13, 2009, 03:04 PM
I can't say I've noticed a huge lag in sales locally, but I do notice more LEgends/CW on pegs generally than Legacy.  It could be that Legacy's orders are getting cut down a bit.  I was disappointed in the news as well, and I think partially it has to do with SW competing against itself somewhat.  That said, I think it's understandable too that in these times it's likely people are going to cut back a bit.  Kids are kids and parents will try to buy for them, but adults will cut back for obvious reasons, and I guess perhaps they are.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on April 13, 2009, 03:09 PM
I'm just glad that they finally realized that they're releasing too much crap too quickly.  Also, I read that Mighty Muggs may come back - obviously at a smaller scale even though they didn't exactly say that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediShawn on April 13, 2009, 04:35 PM
It's not so much too much stuff as it is too much stuff one month then months without anything. That isn't the way the line should be run.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 13, 2009, 05:04 PM
I can understand a surge of releases in the months leading up to the holiday season, but right now we're into April and we've had one wave of Legacy figures released since November.  I agree the pacing of releases needs to be adjusted away from the last quarter of the year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: DoctorPadawan on April 13, 2009, 06:52 PM
Simply put, stores are either doing a horrible job of restocking figures right now that aren't the animated CW line or Hasbro isn't even shipping anything but the animated CW line.  Or both.  Of the two Wal-Marts in my immediate vicinity, each got one case of TLC wave 5 (the ANH wave) in February and hasn't restocked any TLC figures since.  The Target near me hasn't even gotten a case of TLC figures since Wave 4 (ROTS) in December just before Christmas.  TRU has gotten wave 5 a few times, but the wall of Yarnas, Ak Revs, and SL Koons and Tiins are making any stocking/reordering impossible.

If they need to cut back on the production of a line, they should drop Saga Legends completely.  If they're going to be devoting more energy in the animated line and getting it into stores at decent numbers for the kids, there's no reason to spend money on endless reissues of the same damned electronic R2-D2 that was outdated 5 years ago.  Just keep putting the animated version out and be done with it.

While I enjoy the CW line overall, and certainly understand the desire to devote a significant portion of their SW budget resources to it compared to the OT/PT film-based figures, I can't help but think that Hasbro is being a bit short-sighted and (this is a strong word) insulting towards the fans of the film-based toys by claiming it as their weakest seller area.  It's like the guy who leaves his long-time, caring, devoted girlfriend for a younger model with larger breasts, only to find out that the younger model only wants to be with him for five years (or 100 episodes in this case), and then goes crawling back to the old girlfriend on his hands and knees, saying, "I'm sorry baby, I'm sorry.  You know I always loved you best."   :P

Melodramatic, yes, but what is the old saying?  "Dance with the one who brought you to the ball?"

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 13, 2009, 08:39 PM
The holiday shopping season was a VERY clear indicator that Clone Wars outsold the Legacy Collection.  I have two nephews to shop for that are totally into Clone Wars.  And they wanted Clone Wars figures.  What was the retail landscape like?  Clone Wars sold exceedingly well and the Legacy figures lingered much longer.

The reality is that we've seen a downturn in interest for characters from the Saga in the years since EPISODE III was released.  I think that's a natural thing to see happen.  However when a major licensee like Hasbro puts something like this in print it can come as a bit of a shock.  But I think when you recognize the impact of an animated series like Clone Wars, you can see why there's a disparity in the sales numbers between the animated and movie lines.

The current economic climate can't be helping the situation either.  Times are tough and people are not spending the way they were 2 years ago.  Additionally, I think parents are less inclined to ask their kids to sacrifice on toys, but an adult collector may see their collecting as  discretionary spending that they can afford to cut.

And then there's the timing on this cancelled TFU wave of figures.  Talk about missing the boat!  Hasbro overestimated the staying power of The Force Unleashed.  TFU might be an incredible game, but in this age of instant gratification I can't see gamers clamoring to get figures from a game that was released 2 years prior.  If Hasbro had planned this out well, a second wave of TFU figures should have come out in time for the 2008 holidays.  As it is, the first wave of TFU figures was sitting around because LucasArts was dealing with serious delays with the game itself.

I don't like this news from Hasbro.  But I do understand it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on April 13, 2009, 11:09 PM
It's a two edged sword.  Stores probably ordered CW and TLC in equal number's, but obviously they don't sell equally.  Kids don't follow to TLC, and collectors to CW, at least in numbers sufficient for Hasbro.  For example, my localy Wally World stocked 5 cases of TLC wave 5 and CW wave 4 at the same time in early Feburary.  The CW cases sold through, and came again; the TLC cases are still selling down, to the point that only the Spacetrooper is gone.  I don't think the sales landscape is as grave as Hasbro makes it seem, at least around here.  But, with the economy in general and the movie based toys of less interest to kids, it's inevitable we'll see a reduction in movie goodness.  Is that so horrible?  At the same time, there is very little left from the films left for them to do.  I trust they will do it, and there is a market for it.  It will take time, as it always does.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on April 14, 2009, 12:07 AM
Y'know...I bet with the success of the CW animated style figures Hasbro will eventually introduce "Classic Character!" figures into the mix.  Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Darth Vader...I know they said that they don't have plans to do that, but they have to keep those characters on the pegs.  I'd really dig it.  Just for a change up.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 14, 2009, 10:25 AM
I was going to say something similar, Spuffy. The Legacy collection could be suffering from the very fact that the CW product is there to choose from. Kids and parents (who don't collect) could simply be choosing one over the other for volume and/or financial considerations. If the CW line didn't exist, I'm sure Legacy collection wouldn't be suffering as much.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 14, 2009, 10:48 AM
Yeah, I think that's probably a good point as well.  You know that kids and parents are likely opting for Clone Wars stuff (most of the time anyways), and maybe the odd Obi-Wan, Anakin, or Luke figure here or there.  I will say, for as much as they are repacked, I can't recall seeing a "realistic" Obi-Wan or Anakin on the pegs for quite awhile around here.  Also, aside from the Snowtrooper, the X-Wing Luke has been the toughest find here locally as well from the Legends line.  I think there is a little bit of Star Wars competing with itself that hurts the Legacy Collection - like many of you have mentioned.

It also seems like the CW stuff gets stocked more often (and heavier) around here too.  I saw TLC Wave 5 once at Target, once at TRU, and there is still some of the Cantina aliens hanging about at WM (which got quite a few of these in).  Otherwise, there is basically nothing but CW on the pegs - alongside a few Breha Organas, Yarnas, and a smattering of Legends figures (most often Plo Koon/SaeSee Tiin/etc.).

I guess I don't mind the overall number of figures/waves we're getting in TLC, that seems fine (although the release of waves is so sporadic lately) - as long as the "realistic/movie" line doesn't get choked down to basically nothing due to the success of Clone Wars.  It would be a much easier (and cheaper) collecting year for me if I'd just leave the CW stuff for the kiddos, but I haven't done that yet :).  It does sound like Hasbro has a lot of plans for the movie style figures, but it might just be in a little more limited capacity than before.  There is still a fair amount of life in the basic figures - although I am a little more concerned about seeing new/re-done movie-style items in the other areas (vehicles, beasts, battle packs, etc.) that aren't strictly exclusives.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 14, 2009, 11:34 AM
The CW line is also packed more heavily with core characters and troops, while the realistic has far too many lame (as in not action oriented) figures like the Oraganas, Yarna, etc. 

I think Legacy and Legends should be merged, and the film themed waves done away with.  Getting more core characters from the OT in there would help as well, as I never see Luke, Han, Chewie, or a Fett on the pegs anymore. 

Oh, and how about some single carded astrodroids!  Goldie is selling great, and it would be so freaking cheap to keep repainting a droid as almost a running change to keep them in circulation (astromechs never pegwarm!)

Actually, that idea would work really well for the CW.  Take a solid Clone Trooper sculpt and keep it in continual release with only his color/name changing.  The cardback could even stay the same, with just a different sticker slapped on the front to indicate his new info.  This would work well for astromechs and battledroids as well, as we have seen at least a dozen of each in unique paint during the first season (and will presumably see as many more in the second.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 14, 2009, 12:08 PM
Yeah, I'm really surprised that we won't necessarily be seeing more astromechs anytime soon.  Its an easy repaint, which Hasbro has often been fond of, and they always seem to sell pretty well.  I know I'd at least like R4 to go with Obi-Wan and his fighter - and they could really go nuts doing the astrodroid for each Jedi as well (as well as the inevitable starfighter repaints).  Sure, we could use the realistic astrodroids we've seen, but as in the case of R4 - that isn't exactly an easy figure to locate.  I know I was hoping to have an extra just to put in Obi-Wan's Delta 2 - and its not like it is readily available.  Why not stick that figure in the Legends line then?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on April 14, 2009, 12:21 PM
I'd be up for a new astromech set like the Entertainment Earth sets (http://www.yakface.com/TGuide2004/html/tsc/multipacks/01.html) where they can get 5 new ones out in one fell swoop.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 14, 2009, 12:27 PM
Yeah, I'm really surprised that we won't necessarily be seeing more astromechs anytime soon. 

The Clone Wars show is cranking out characters like crazy.  Most "wish lists" from Season 1 have over 100 characters that they've shown so far.  There are so many characters with speaking roles and so many new "action" characters like Jedi, Clones, and Droids that they still need to do.  Unless they figure prominently into a multi-episode story arc (like Goldie did), there just isn't room for the Astromechs.

I'd even wager that Hasbro sort of knew/expected a lack of Astromechs, which is why the ship was re-engineered so that you can put a regular figure in there and not just an Astrodroid.  Maybe the kids are perfectly content with putting Rex or another Clone inthe Droid slot?

Don't get me wrong, I'd would totally buy any CW Astro Droids they made, but looking at what's coming in CW Waves 5-8, there really aren't any figures that make me say "I'd rather have Obi-Wan's astro droid instead of figure X".   Yeah, Kit Fisto's astromech would be neat to have, but I'd rather have the Jawas, Yularen, Windu, Gree, Etc that are already planned.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 14, 2009, 12:37 PM
The Clone Wars show is cranking out characters like crazy.  Most "wish lists" from Season 1 have over 100 characters that they've shown so far.  There are so many characters with speaking roles and so many new "action" characters like Jedi, Clones, and Droids that they still need to do.  Unless they figure prominently into a multi-episode story arc (like Goldie did), there just isn't room for the Astromechs.

I'd even wager that Hasbro sort of knew/expected a lack of Astromechs, which is why the ship was re-engineered so that you can put a regular figure in there and not just an Astrodroid.  Maybe the kids are perfectly content with putting Rex or another Clone inthe Droid slot?

Don't get me wrong, I'd would totally buy any CW Astro Droids they made, but looking at what's coming in CW Waves 5-8, there really aren't any figures that make me say "I'd rather have Obi-Wan's astro droid instead of figure X".   Yeah, Kit Fisto's astromech would be neat to have, but I'd rather have the Jawas, Yularen, Windu, Gree, Etc that are already planned.

That's a good point Jeff.  Just looking over our various wish lists here, its crazy how many figures/characters are on those lists already.  To be honest, it almost seems like Hasbro is a little behind.  I know the lead time for figures makes it difficult sometimes to "be ready", but you think it would have been great to have more CW figures on the pegs during the season - maybe even being able to have characters like Cad Bane and Mace Windu available now.  Instead, we'll get the Fisto/Jar Jar wave - and then its basically nothing until the fall (a problem with the entire line the way it looks, at least according to the presentation).  Anyways, that is an excellent point Jeff.  There are only so many basic figure slots, and the number of "significant" characters from the series is pretty high so its difficult to find room for astrodroid repaints (which I guess not many - aside from maybe Kit Fisto's droid - have done much of anything outside of R2/Goldie).  Maybe slipping them into battle packs or droid packs (like the ones Jayson mentioned) wouldn't be a bad idea.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 14, 2009, 01:13 PM
My point is less that the various astrodroids seen so far are such prominent characters, than that they are an easy and cheap way to flesh out the line a bit.  With 4-figure waves that almost invariably including a core character or two, astro repaints, like clone repaints, are a great way to get more variety on the pegs and maximize sales of a hot property, while not increasing expenses by adding to the tooling budget.  And kids really do love astrodroids!

BP's would be a perfect way of doing this - I suggested a Shadow Squadron or Blue Squadron set to coincide with the upcoming Y-Wing release, but Hasbro explicitly shot that down in a Q&A, saying that while some of those pilots were coming, no droids were planned. 

Besides Kit's R6-H5, we've seen Ahsoka's R7-A7 pretty prominently in the Ryloth trilogy in both her Jedi Fighter and a Y-Wing, and since both of those vehicles are coming, you'd think it'd be smart to get that droid on a peg or at least in a 2-pack with Ahsoka.  Plo Koon's R7-F5 was seen in the Malevolence arc, and besides all the other Shadow Squadron astros, the Green R5 unit has shown up three times now, which should defintely make him peg worthy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on April 14, 2009, 01:17 PM
My kids play with the toon and movie astro droids interchangeably so I think Hasbro's point has some merit. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on April 14, 2009, 09:25 PM
I think the best idea I've read so far is a return to non-themed waves.  I'd love a couple OT characters every single wave for sure, instead of waiting months through PT and EU waves to sell through.  I wouldn't mind trading for the BAD parts I'd need, either.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 14, 2009, 10:06 PM
I too would like a return to non-themed waves.  In fact, get rid of waves all together.  I'm sure the people who buy figures by the case wouldn't like this, but why not just release a figure when its ready.  For example, Hasbro could decide they want to have 12 figures shipping at a given time.  When a figure has been shipped for a given period of time, or volume, they discontinue that figure and replace it with another one.  That way they can keep "A" figures in the rotation longer (for example pilot Luke) while only offering ICMG for a comparetively shorter time, and since that's a collector focused figure, there would be greater drive among collectors who want it, to get it.

This would also allow them to return a figure to the lineup easily.  For example if they made the definitely Rebel Fleet Trooper and it blows away their estimates on sales, they could simply send it for another production run and increase its time on the shelves, as opposed to having to wait to rerelease it in the Legends line two years later.  This would require more in depth understanding of individual sales volume/velocity than I think they currently keep (I'm guessing they instead look at case versions), but would allow everyone to get what they want.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on April 15, 2009, 10:21 AM
I dunno. I like having waves I'm not interested in so I can not run around looking for them.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 15, 2009, 12:54 PM
I dunno. I like having waves I'm not interested in so I can not run around looking for them.

Like i said, collectors who rely on the case makeups to decide when to look/order may have a problem with this, but it would allow Hasbro to more easily keep a figure in rotation longer, or make running changes, etc.  There's probably excellent business reasons why this wouldn't work, probably due to the sheer complexity of tracking that production, but it would allow a more diverse blend of figures, would allow for a single product line and would eliminate weak/strong waves.  Instead it would require you, DA, to shop all the time :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 15, 2009, 02:38 PM
Hasbro has stated that they do assortments rather than individual skus for figures because their customers (the big retailers) only want to deal with assortments, not a large number of individual figs.  (which presumably would have to be packed and shipped separately, and be a nightmare for the distribution chain)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 15, 2009, 02:45 PM
Hobbie, my point was they should essentially go to a single sku, just vary what is in that box.  They wouldn't need to ship them each figure separately, just stop distinguishing one assortment from another.  Just ship "Hasbro Star Wars Action Figures".  No wave 1, wave 1.1, wave 1.2, etc.  Heck, have one bar code of the figures too, thereby saving Walmart some miniscule amount of their computing power.  I don't think Walmart would have a problem with this, because to them, a Star Wars figure is a Star Wars figure is a Star Wars figure.  The only reason they care about getting assortments, is because Hasbro releases figures in waves, it isn't the other way around.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 15, 2009, 03:01 PM
I guess the way you describe it it sounds even more confusing.  Are you saying that Hasbro should just randomly pack the cases in China and hope they come out in a decent assortment when they arrive on the store shelves 3 months later?  It seems like the wave variations at least allow them to keep track of what is going where, if they or the retailers really want to know. 

If you just wish they could more quickly put a figure into circulation or take it out of circulation, there's not really any reason why they can't do that now.  In fact, they've said before that they've adjusted future assortments on how things are selling.  The main hook in the works, as I see it, is the delay between production, shipment by boat, and then warehousing, both by Hasbro and then by the retailer.  I imagine there's always a few months of figs "in the pipeline" that have to be dealt with before any changes could be made.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on April 15, 2009, 03:39 PM
This might just be a misunderstanding on my part, but my assumption was that Hasbro ships from China on a, more or less, constant basis.  Therefore they wouldn't exactly be just "hoping" an acceptable variety ends up at the stores.  My thought was for Hasbro to have a more steady stream of figures.  Essentially they would have (taking this year as an example) started out with Luke, Han, Ben, Spacetrooper and the aliens shipping.  Then once that's been going for a bit they sub out two of the aliens for the Frigate Luke, then after a week or two they sub out the Spacetrooper for the Hoth Trooper, then they replace Ben with Needa, and then Luke and Han with Leia and Ugnaughts, etc.  Meanwhile the cases keep going out the door.  So, yes, conceivably cases could arrive in a different order than the change was made in China, but that shouldn't be an issue, because a given figure, Leia for example, would continue to ship for the usual amount of time that a figure would have typically shipped, she just wouldn't be tied to a wave.  Essentially the cases would be almost constantly changing, but the case ratios would always be an acceptable variety.  They would replace "A" figures with "A" figures (Luke for Maul or Vader, etc.)

My general complaint isn't that there is too much of a delay between shipping, its that you can go months without seeing anything new, then they push out 3 waves in just over a month.  By phasing in characters individually it would maintain interest for a longer term.

Frankly, I doubt Hasbro would adopt this model, as positive as this would be in maintaining an interest level at retail, I fear it wouldn't allow Hasbro the level of control they desire over the distribution chain.  For example if a test showed an elevated level of lead after a product has been shipping, they would face an enormous logistic problem.  So, I'm not going to hold my breath on this.   I was more or less thinking out loud (even though I'm typing) about a solution that allows a more steady stream of things to find in stores.  It just stinks that we've only seen 8 new Legacy figures since about Thanksgiving.....
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on April 15, 2009, 03:51 PM
I got you now. 

Perhaps the big delay had more to do with Walmart/Target not ordering figures due to surplus holiday stock they had to grind through instead of Hasbro being recalcitrant about producing new waves.  I suppose we'll never really know the answer (unless you can write a good Q&A question asking them!).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 15, 2009, 04:39 PM
Ok - this post is going to be long winded, so I apologize in advance...

I think Hasbro laying the Legacy Collection sales numbers problems at the feet of the collector segment is absolute crap. Here's why:

1) Collectors do not plan the line - as much as we'd like to think we influence the line, our voice is a very small factor in which figures are picked for which waves. Yarna should have been the "bonus" figure with a ROTJ Jabba Battlepack and a more kid-friendly Jabba denzien should have been in the wave. I can't even remember the last time I saw a Bane Malor figure on the pegs. Breha Organa should have been saved for a Comic 2-pack featuring her and Beru Lars with the Skywalker baby accessories, or perhaps even a collector exclusive, she should not have been in a B-A-D assortment.

2) Collectors do not plan case assortments - case assortments should be straight-forward as a result of the Build-a-Droid model where assortments are either 8 figures = 2 droids or 6 figures = 1 droid. For 8 figure waves there should be two different case pack-outs 2x Figs 1-4, 1x Figs 5-8; 1x Figs 1-4, 2x Figs 5-8. For 6 figure waves there should be one case pack-out: 2x of each figure.

3) Collectors don't plan on which figures come back for repeat shipping in later waves - I have started being strategic about what I buy - if I had known that the Scuba trooper or the Quad Gun Clone were shipping later, I would have held off army-building that figure so that I could get a variety of droid parts and not just end up with a slew of Green R4 domes and torsos! So now that I know the Spacetrooper is shipping in the next wave, I've held off getting more than two to open. My hope is that the part the Spacetrooper comes with in the ESB wave will not overlap the part that comes with the Hoth Rebel Trooper and the Ugnaught so that way, I'll be half-way complete with a second U-3PO thanks to the purchase of figures I already wanted to army build. So in a way this issue is related to my #2 issue - if no figures were ever re-shipping with a DIFFERENT droid part, collectors would be just buying what they wanted of each figure as they are released. If ever figure was treated like Bane Malor where if you don't get it when that wave is shipping, you will miss it - so not only is it your ONLY chance to get the figure, it's also your ONLY chance to get that droid part.

4) Collectors do not plan which build-a-droid parts end up with which figures - If for example, you have an assortment like the Wave 2 (Animated Clone Wars) one, why wouldn't you pack four of the army builders with the parts to one astromech and then package the parts for the other astromech with the remaining four figures? I know that this wave technically had five army builders, but it would have at least been nice if they had either the Quarren or the Mon Calamari warriors come with the fourth part of the Green R4 droid instead of two parts to the R7.

5) Collectors do not change the packaging every time the wind blows a different direction - ok, so this is the old-timer in me talking - pick a generic card back style, have the "Star Wars" logo on the top and ship everything in a single assortment. Get rid of the "Saga Legends" assortment entirely. If you want to have assortments for the TV show be separate, fine, but everything else should ship under a single SKU. If you want to keep putting out Darth Vader with Force Unleashed Battle Damage - that's fine, but at least the completists won't have to worry about having one in the TAC packaging, one in the TLC-Blue packaging and one in the TLC-Red packaging. So their repeated tactics of re-releasing items simply because the packaging changes has basically made the completist an endangered species. Collectors are now more picky about what they buy because there's really no reason to buy the same item twice. I know I fall prey to it, but very few people are as OCD as me when it comes to this stuff. Don't release the same figure over-and-over-and-over and then wonder why sales numbers for a particular SKU aren't as good as a line that is pretty much comprised of completely new figures (Clone Wars). Once you force a completist to make a concession it opens the door to that collector starting to pick and choose what they buy and by that point in time, it's too late to get them back into the mode of buying at least one of everything.

6) Collectors don't choose what items you offer as high-end exclusives or the quality of those products - Case in point - the Lars Homestead and Sarlaac Pit. Those two sets would have sold MUCH BETTER if the quality of the product had been a lot higher. The use of the flimsy plastic bases really turned off a lot of collectors on these sets. If you wanted them to sell, then the product should have been of a higher quality. This is a great example of collectors "voting with their wallets" and Hasbro's reaction this is simply "playsets don't work, see we told you so" - heaven forbid they actually admit that they know they put out a shoddy product.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on April 15, 2009, 05:15 PM
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Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on April 15, 2009, 05:15 PM
I agree with you on pretty much your whole post Pete.

Here's another take on this as well that I posted to my SW state collecting group:
One person asked:
"Can't they just go back to the "good ole days" when we had one line with multiple waves?"


And I responded:
This would be the best IMO. If they want to have different styles fine.
It can still be in ONE LINE.
Have 5 waves of animated style figures, 5 of realistic style figures and two SAGA Legends waves (one wave is animated, the other realistic).
Alternate between realistic and animated every month. During the predictable slowest 2 months is when they can release the Legends waves. Base those Legends waves on the hottest selling figures from the previous year. No more than 6-8 figures per any wave. In this way, we'd get 30-40 new figures each of animated and realistic and then whatever Legends figures. Each wave would only be produced enough to sell for two months. So at any given time there is only one wave each of animated and realistic on the pegs (of course leftovers from previous waves that might be pegwarmers).
Doing this gives us enough figures each year to collect, gives us a little break between waves if you only collect one style or another, and gives Hasbro a break at trying to crank out more than 100 new figs per year. Since the number of figures would be more limited in both amount of total figures per year and availability, they (Hasbro) can finally pull out all of the stops and add SA articulation to nearly every figure.

Anyone else think that might be a reasonable plan?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 15, 2009, 06:47 PM
Nice post Pete, lots of good points.  I'd like to see the line "simplified" a bit, for the lack of a better term.  I like the thought of "why can't they just do it like they used to?" as well.  Sure, the marketplace is different now - and I can totally understand having the Clone Wars animated stuff seperate if they are going to have both styles (realistic and animated) - but everything else should just be under one line.  I've said it before, I sort of miss the POTF2-style collecting days.  It wasn't a full time job just to keep up with things, things at least seemed to come out at a nice pace, and the prices didn't break the bank.

I think they could pretty much do away with the Legends assortment as well.  Sure, it has allowed for some re-releases of a few harder to find figures, as well as some nice army builders, but other than that it just seems like something to get in the way of the "new" figures.  I'm just fine with bringing out some of the real nice figures, and I'm a person that does believe the "big guns" should be available to kids and new collectors almost all the time - so just repack them in with the new wave refreshes every so often.  Heck - and again, it was a different time/retail landscape - you could still find a "cantina" Han Solo during the ROTJ run of figures in the vintage days if you needed one.  No reason that they couldn't figure out a way to do that now.  One other thing that I'd like to see done is retiring all previous versions of a figure once the "ultimate" one comes out.  You've got that nice, never re-released VOTC Han Solo there Hasbro - we don't need the commtech one anymore.  Same goes for the action feature Fetts, any non-Evolutions Darth Maul, and the stubby ROTS Grievous figures.  Use the best version of the character if we're going to see them re-released in any capacity.  Anyways, getting too long winded here, but with all this talk from the recent Q and A's of "collector support", its apparent that Hasbro needs to make some changes to bring those who have left back in the fold.  It isn't our fault, its something wrong with the line/prices.  And, as a second thought, I do think the whole issue of so much stuff in any given year (particularly the last half of the year) burns a lot of collectors out.  Sure, some people budget, but not everyone is prepared to buy 3/4 of their collection in the last four months of the year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 2, 2009, 01:56 AM
We've got answers for this session coming up on the front page, however I'm afraid to say that due to my own stupidity, we won't have answers for the next session.  I, unfortunately, had a misprint on my calendar when I confused two dates, and so I didn't get a series of Q's into the H this time around.  It's my own fault for not checking my schedule with the Hasbro one more closely.  We'll get 'em in next round.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 2, 2009, 03:20 AM
By the way our Q&A session is posted on the front page...

-What's the deal with Deluxe and will it go beyond Clone Wars?

-What body is used for Red Leader (which we already knew), and why (which we didn't know!)?

-Will we get more unique headsculpts for the maskless Troopers?

Check out the front page for the answers folks!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on May 2, 2009, 07:37 AM
Quote
Red Leader used the Luke figure. When the set was originally created, the Wedge/Nrin Vakil body was not available and thus the Luke body was selected. In fact, if it wasn't for some heroics from our engineering team, Nrin may not have had that body at all since he was supposed to use it *after* we were done running the Wedge/X-Wing exclusive, which was subsequently delayed until this Fall. We managed to push the tooling dollars around, and we were lucky to get him, but not soon enough to impact Red Leader.

I'm confused. They managed to get the tooling done in time to get the new X-wing pilot body out for the comic pack but not the battle pack? The comic pack came out well before the Yavin set no?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 2, 2009, 10:00 AM
There's a nice question/answer over at Han's Hideout discussing how the Ewok NoApaak came about as being part of the two pack on the way (with Paploo) in this year's ROTJ wave.  Kind of a nice story I thought.  Also a question I was curious about, why not put VOTC Han/Chewie/Luke, etc. into the Legends assortment?  They mention that the Han tooling is being used elsewhere, so maybe that has something to do with the Han coming in the other ANH wave this year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 2, 2009, 10:32 AM
Cool. Good to know about the Red Leader body.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on May 2, 2009, 11:39 AM
Looking forward to Wedge, but not the likely price tag.  And I agree on all fronts, Pete.  Hasbro owns some of the problems in the line, as much as the economy or collector fatigue.  I praise them to high heaven for even doing Yarna, but there's a time and place, and the major launch of an animated kids movie is not where I would have introduced her.  The idea of Jabba BP is perfect, and would have been more appealing than say, the Sarlacc BP or the Lars BP.  A giant box of aliens and Jabba and his throne maybe doesn't sound kid friendly, but then neither does a box of a hole in the ground.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on May 2, 2009, 06:27 PM
Or two senior citizens standing next to a dome.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 5, 2009, 11:25 AM
Although I don't remember now which site it was from, somewhere in this latest batch of Q and A's, it was asked if we would see an all-new C-3PO (gold) using these latest droid articulation advances (through things like the Build a Droids, 4-LOM, etc.) and Hasbro essentially said that the Endor Throne is going to be as good as it gets.  They said that Lucasfilm insists on 3PO being "shiny" or something to that effect, and that those procedures are difficult to use on something with that sort of articulation (or something to that effect).  I like the Endor throne C-3PO, but I guess I was sort of hoping we could get something along the lines of 4-LOM or U-3PO for ole Goldenrod.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 5, 2009, 04:24 PM
Electro-plating is a pricey process in and of itself.  I assume that's part of the problem, however it also is prone to chipping at points of articulation and that cannot be helped unlike, say, paint which can be bonded to plastic itself and not chip.  All those points of articulation on 3PO type figures then leaves you with a big problem if you wanted to get it totally chromed.

Also it appears the process does not take to the types of plastic used to create most figures these days.  Most are made of pliable PVC, or poly-vinyl.  Most 3PO's (and many figures in the line's past) used a lot more ABS or "styrene" type plastics.  It's more rigid, and takes the electro-plasting process better for that chromed look.  Most figure's torsoes were made of that but now only figures with a ball/socket torso have that type of plastic used due to the design.

I'm ok with Endor throne 3PO being the pinnacle of C-3PO.  He isn't really "action oriented" so having him able to sit is nice.  I like the SA droid bodies we've gotten of late though, but I must say that any gold deco 3PO that wasn't chromed out, just never looked right to me.  I recall people gushed over the escape pod 3PO back in Saga days, and to me that figure was attrocious looking because it wasn't accurate.  I always prized the Purchase of the Droids 3-pack figure over that one, as a Tatooine 3PO.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 23, 2009, 10:56 AM
I haven't seen a ton of Q and A's yet, but from the ones I read this week it looks like there is more reinforcement of the "Legacy's not doing so hot, be prepared for less 'collector targeted' figures" coming from Hasbro.  They wouldn't even go as far as saying that the realistic figures would not end, as they had this comment in one of their replies at RS:

Quote
"What we did say, and we are happy to clarify, is that the number of active collectors seems to have softened, which presents a problem for a basic figure line like The Legacy Collection where new sculpts of more obscure, fan-requested or as-yet-unmade characters remains part of the "heart" of the line. Because of the high volume expectations for the basic figure line, it needs to be very tightly planned or we will miss our targets and retailer expectations will not be met. We are very committed to the main Legacy figure line and do not foresee this fading out as long as there is a strong collector following."

Personally, I don't expect the "Legacy style" figures to end anytime soon, but it was a little disheartening to see Hasbro waver from their previous replies of "its not going anywhere" to "well, if collectors buy it should be ok".  As far as fewer collector-oriented figures - well, we've been hearing that for awhile.  Hopefully we'll still get some here and there, but when I started thinking about it, we've really had a pretty nice run of them over the past few years:

TLC: Bane Malar, Yarna, Organas, FX-6, Wioslea, Brainiac, Trinto Duaba and Dice Ibegon, Willrow Hood, Rum Sleg, Owen/Beru, and others (on the way)
TAC: Lava Miner, Honor Guard, McQuarrie figures, Miyoom Onith, Elis Herlot, CZ-4, Hermi Odle, Darth Revan/Malak, Po Nudo, Mustafar Panning Droid, Force Unleashed figures, etc.
TSC: Bren Derlin, General Veers, Firespeeder Pilot, Lushos Dofine, Hem Dazon, Garindan, Moff Jerjerrod, Rep Been, Gragra, etc.

Plus, there are several Jedi and others that I'm not listing that are more obscure figures.  I'm not saying I'm happy and hope we don't get any other "collector oriented" figures along the way, but we have had a nice run of them lately.  Even looking at a lot of our Top 10 lists at this point, it seems like more and more resculpts of main/supporting characters are starting to take up slots - and aside from a few exceptions (more Cantina/Jabba's Palace stuff), I'd be happy seeing a number of those get made too.  I will say that I get a little more concerned about the Legacy line each time we hear the comments in these Q and A's about how much they are struggling.  They even mentioned (I believe in the RS Q and A) an option of going with mostly "hero" figures in the assortments again:

Quote
One solution, which we don't plan on implementing, is going to only versions of the more popular characters....this would ensure sell-through but would eliminate a lot of the newer and more niche characters. Finding the balance is the key.

Anyways, nice to get some more information on Hasbro's thinking - and hopefully some other nice bits of info along the way (new DSE Han Solo from Han's Hideout Q and A).  Also, and I mean no offense here, but don't the questions at SSG (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=1934) seem awfully confrontational this week?  It sort of seems like they are asking "Hasbro, why do you suck?"
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Corax on May 23, 2009, 01:03 PM
On the front of Legacy not selling well/collector interest is down I would like to point this comment out from Hasbro in their answer to SSG:

 Last Fall, however, we saw a change. There was an overall reduction of collector dollars in the action figure collecting hobby to which Star Wars was not immune, and we saw this on a more granular level in the sell-through of purely collector-target figures. While the hero figures (Obi-Wans, Anakins, Lukes, Vaders, troopers, etc) continued to do very well, the collector figures really started to struggle compared to all past years. This resulted in a need to recalibrate our release levels for these figures, since without that recalibration the normal releases we would make on purely collector figures would now be too large for the current collector market to bear, pegs would really start to back up, and the whole Legacy/Droid Factory figure flow would grind to a halt - in short, a disaster, unless corrective measures were taken.


I don't really think this is fair to put on the collector's shoulders.  In my area from around the time the new figures hit the shelves in July until Novemember that's all that was available, aside from TCW animated figures which sold well.  Now wave 2 moved very well and the main charcters from the first wave sold well.  My area then got bombarded with Saga figures.  So of course the "main" characters sold well that's really the only choice we had in my area.  It really seemed that there was at least 5 Yarnas apiece for every collector in the known universe.  So I think it's a smart move by Hasbro to cut back on the production numbers of collector-oriented figures, just don't put the blame on the collector's shoulders when crappy distribution of newer figures played a role in what a collector could buy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on May 23, 2009, 03:09 PM
I hope Hasbro doesn't ditch us OT lovers in favor of CW animated stuff, but I can see a new focus since CW stuf is "all the rage" with the kiddos.  Did Yarna and the Organas kill Legacy into whatever the new line is called?  Meh....Just one more reason for me to ditch this stuff if that pans out.

Anyways, nice to get some more information on Hasbro's thinking - and hopefully some other nice bits of info along the way (new DSE Han Solo from Han's Hideout Q and A)

I have to ask - after all this time.  Does anybody even know that Jeff was behind Han's Hideout?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on May 23, 2009, 04:42 PM
Anyways, nice to get some more information on Hasbro's thinking - and hopefully some other nice bits of info along the way (new DSE Han Solo from Han's Hideout Q and A)

I have to ask - after all this time.  Does anybody even know that Jeff was behind Han's Hideout?

At least the Minnesohta contingent...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 25, 2009, 11:16 AM
I have to echo the sentiment about Hasbro's changing the Battlepack formula away from the Yavin style.  I swear, sometimes I think they believe they're giving us a gift with sets like these, but they "don't want to spoil us".  What the hell?  Is it cost?  Wouldn't everybody here accept an increase in price to $30 or so if we got great sets like these?  Imagine a Hoth base equivalent with sled, driver, R3, and a Echo trooper or Snowspeeder pilot... but no, they want to go back to selling sets of Ep3 clones or heroes.  I don't get it- most stores around here are clogged with BoMarr assault BPs, yet there are no Yavin sets remaining...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 25, 2009, 01:28 PM
I'd accept a price hike for nothing at this point...  No offense DB, but that set's just about right at $25 to me...  The sled's nice, but 3 figures and a vehicle seems expensive to me, especially a small vehicle.  I can choke down $25-ish right now and not think to myself too much...  At $30 I'd have bought one and called it a day.  Things are getting too expensive in this line as far as I'm concerned.  I think that's more a reason Legacy is lagging.  I think all SW sales are probably starting to lag due to price hikes. 

I heard someone bitching in the toy aisle yesterday about what figures cost for SW and wouldn't buy their kid that, even though it's what he wanted.  I think that's a pretty broad view on the line right now, not just to me and maybe collectors...  I think it goes all around.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on May 25, 2009, 01:34 PM
I heard someone bitching in the toy aisle yesterday about what figures cost for SW and wouldn't buy their kid that, even though it's what he wanted.  I think that's a pretty broad view on the line right now, not just to me and maybe collectors...  I think it goes all around.

Plus, while SW figures at $8, aren't there similar 3.75" figure lines for a couple dollars cheaper for more pack-ins. Wasn't GI Joe like this for awhile? (I only get SW and really don't look at other products in the aisle, so I'm not sure)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on May 25, 2009, 05:39 PM
GI Joe is definitely cheaper than SW.  But that has everything to do with licensing fees.  Hasbro owns GI Joe as an intellectual property.  As such, they don't have to pay any kind of licensing royalties.  But there's a license royalty paid to Lucasfilm for SW merchandise, and that's built into the price structure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on May 25, 2009, 07:17 PM
GI Joe is definitely cheaper than SW.  But that has everything to do with licensing fees.  Hasbro owns GI Joe as an intellectual property.  As such, they don't have to pay any kind of licensing royalties.  But there's a license royalty paid to Lucasfilm for SW merchandise, and that's built into the price structure.

^ Yet most retailers charge about the same.  Either the retailers are jacking up the price, or Hasbro is sitting on a higher profit margin with the JOE stuff.

However, I'd think that for each GI JOE figure that Hasbro has sold the last 2 years, they've sold a few cases of Star Wars.  The volume of sales can't even be close (at least not from what I see).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on May 25, 2009, 10:52 PM
Really?  I was just in Target.  GI Joe figures were $6.99, and Star Wars figures were $7.99.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on May 25, 2009, 11:06 PM
Here's the price breakdown in my area:

Wal-Mart
Star Wars - 7.46
GI JOE - 6.96

Target
Star Wars - 7.49
GI JOE - 6.99

TRU
Star Wars - 7.99
GI JOE - 7.99

Pretty similar in price, exactly the same at TRU.

Here's a weird one though, Wal-Mart is lower than everyone on all Hasbro figures that I can tell, except the Wolverine and Marvel figures in the 3-3/4" scale... they charge $8.44 while the other retailers charge $7.99.

I remember back when the GI JOE line launched a couple years back, they were $4.99 each pretty much everywhere... maybe that price was just to help build some interest in the line.  I dunno.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on May 25, 2009, 11:36 PM
TRU has far fewer stores nationally than both WalMart and Target.  So I don't see them as a significant player.  WalMart has been the single largest toy seller in the US for some years now.  TRU's pricing seems like they're trying to boost their profits from GI Joe.  But that's where I tend to see the most GI Joe stock.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediJman on May 25, 2009, 11:50 PM
TRU has far fewer stores nationally than both WalMart and Target.  So I don't see them as a significant player.  WalMart has been the single largest toy seller in the US for some years now.  TRU's pricing seems like they're trying to boost their profits from GI Joe.  But that's where I tend to see the most GI Joe stock.

You don't see them as a significant player?  I view all of the outlets I can buy my stuff from pretty equally - I'd easily switch from buying at Target to TRU if they had better prices.  I guess it all differs by region.  In my area, TRU has the absolute worst supply of Joes.  There's also a Target store 5 miles in any direction, whereas our Wal-Marts are in the boonies and seem to re-stock a lot less regularly than Target. 

That's an interesting point on paying the licensing fee for Star Wars items.  I'm sure that does factor into the pricing, though I feel like retailers could drop back down to $7 on Star Wars at any time if they felt unit sales were dragging.  SW has the biggest and most loyal collector base, so I'd guess that its the line that is least sensitive to price changes/higher prices.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on May 26, 2009, 12:30 AM
The numbers don't lie in terms of the number of stores:

WalMart - 971 discount stores & 2400+ super centers in the US & 2,900 + stores internationally
Target - 2,000 stores in the US (projected by 2010)
Toys R Us - 580+ US stores; 680+ internationally

TRU has more shelf space devoted to their sections.  And one would think that an increase in shelf space would aid them.  It does in terms of room for exclusives.  But they don't manage their inventory as efficiently as Target does.  And WalMart has over 6 times as many locations as TRU.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 26, 2009, 02:29 AM
If you throw KM into the mix, I think they're $7.99 for Joes and $9.96 here for Star Wars (Yes, holy ****).  They're larger in certain areas though...  Others, not so much.

As far as price-hikes go though, many companies haven't seemingly done the major hikes Hasbro's lines have...  I don't know why that would be, but if you look around at other toy lines the %'s just aren't the same as what Hasbro's lines have been it seems.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on May 26, 2009, 10:17 AM
Companies do raise prices "just because," regardless of supply and demand all the time. That could be the case here.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on May 26, 2009, 12:35 PM
As far as price-hikes go though, many companies haven't seemingly done the major hikes Hasbro's lines have...  I don't know why that would be, but if you look around at other toy lines the %'s just aren't the same as what Hasbro's lines have been it seems.

Absolutely!  It seems all of Hasbro's toys have increased in price more than other companies over the past couple years... at least from what I can see.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on May 26, 2009, 07:13 PM
I'd accept a price hike for nothing at this point...  No offense DB, but that set's just about right at $25 to me... 

I should probably clarify: I meant that if cost is the issue of why Hasbro is going back to the slim design of BP with all re-pack figures, then perhaps they could charge a little more to give us more desirable pieces in these sets.  At least, I'd rather $30 BPs with all-new vehicles and figures in them than the current plan of $25 repack sets.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 26, 2009, 07:56 PM
If they bumped it back up to at least say 4 figures with a small vehicle...  Yes.  The Gelagrub for instance, would be acceptable if it were a grub and 4 figures for $30...  If it were 2 grubs and 2 figures, I think the $25-ish is acceptable...  As it stands now though, it's one grub and one figure (so far as we can tell right now), andthat, for $25-ish, is pure horse**** to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on May 26, 2009, 09:08 PM
Speaking of price hikes - I just got the EE catalog and the old $9.99 dlx assortment is now $17.99.  What a joke.  Hasbro keeps talking about collector interest falling - at least from the Legacy standpoint...hmmmm...wonder why?  I'm not picking these up even though I'm still in the CW game for the moment unless there's some groovy sale or something.

Not to shoot off topic - where is our QnA  ???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 26, 2009, 09:19 PM
Not to shoot off topic - where is our QnA  ???

back a few pages...

I'm afraid to say that due to my own stupidity, we won't have answers for the next session.  I, unfortunately, had a misprint on my calendar when I confused two dates, and so I didn't get a series of Q's into the H this time around.  It's my own fault for not checking my schedule with the Hasbro one more closely.  We'll get 'em in next round.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 26, 2009, 10:23 PM
Wow, feels good having that brought up again.  ::)  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 12, 2009, 03:35 PM
Wow, the Hasbro gang must have wanted to leave work early today, as they've already started sending out answers a good 5-6 hours early today...  :P


I tried to get Hasbro to give some love to the Kenner 'Vehicle Maintenance Energizer' (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/06/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-12.html)., but it looks like they weren't having any of that.   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ryan on June 12, 2009, 11:19 PM
This week's questions:

 - Will the Ratts/Clegg 2-Pack still be a 2-pack? (Question was asked before the image leaked)

 - Any Plans to reuse Typho for a generic trooper?

 - Why are some heads cast in fleshtone while other are painted?

Head out to the front page for answers. :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on June 13, 2009, 02:26 AM
I know I'm in the minority but I think it's great that they want to do at least one TPM wave a year. The thread OCB made the other day made me realize there's sooooo much we need from that movie.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 13, 2009, 03:24 AM
I'm not aagainst it myself.  I'm all for various resculpts and new obscurity from TPM.  Mos Espa has a LOT of goodness to it, lots of droids/aliens, and I think all the Naboo army builders are in need of some overhaul except the boring ass Naboo ground guys (red/yellow dudes).  The other three "Troopers" could use resculpting though for certain, and Panaka, and Purple Padme, and Jar Jar, and even mini Anakin could use an SA figure even though he is why that movie sucked (to me at least).

Add in things like Tey How, PK droids...  There's still a bit of stuff to cover with TPM.

I still maintain Sio Bibble is best left alone at this point though, and unless it's a coatless Valorum, I'm not really geeked on getting him resculpted either.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on June 14, 2009, 10:32 AM
How does SSG keep getting to ask questions?  I'm surprised someone at Hasbro hasn't bitchslapped them ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 14, 2009, 03:13 PM
I can't wait to read this one in the wrap-up already, haha.  I know some guys sorta get a hard-on about it and think that's somehow better reporting, but you don't have to be a dick to ask questions regarding things you aren't happy about.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on June 15, 2009, 12:31 PM
Word has it (and keep this on the down-low, R. Kelly-style, please) that Hasbro's magic number is fourteen.  Meaning it takes asking fourteen questions about something to get them to change their minds on it.  SirSteve is currently at eleven questions regarding the death of the Titanium line.

Only three more Titanium questions to go, SSG!  Bring it back.  That line deserves to have no one giving a **** about it for years to come, not just months.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 15, 2009, 12:50 PM
Meaning it takes asking fourteen questions about something to get them to change their minds on it.  

How many left until we get a death star playset, new vintage figures, and realistic style sculpted clone wars figures?  Surely those have hit the 14 cap?  Or is the 14 cap per site in one calendar year?  

???
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on June 15, 2009, 12:53 PM
It's in one calendar year, which sounds tough, but if you submit multiple questions about one topic in the same session, it makes it much easier.  We could have all those things you mentioned in as little as five sessions that way.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 15, 2009, 04:14 PM
They're gonna nip it in the bud by not having 14 sessions in a year at some point.

When do we hit the magic mark for Fleet Trooper questions?  I want my Fleet Trooper.

EDIT:  I see someone also tried hard to cram the analogy of the ST playsets into SW too as well up in Matt's compiled list of Q&A's (thanks Matt, as always).  I was wondering when the ST playsets, which technically only the transporter comes even remotely close to what people want (the "bridge" is a plastic playmat with some fairly cheap chairs/screens), was going to come up.  I bought both myself, and neither translates to Star Wars and what's needed to push a set, at all. 

Not to mention they're not selling anyway as near as I can tell.

Only Target and TRU have them, and they're selling at neither.  WM isn't even selling them in my area (I could be a minority there?) it seems.  The line's supposedly doing well according to Playmates too regardless what people believe to the contrary, but the sets don't seem to be doing much.  The Transporter's genuinely great too, in every way.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on June 15, 2009, 06:00 PM
When do we hit the magic mark for Fleet Trooper questions?  I want my Fleet Trooper.


And I want my Fleet Trooper.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v104/nextseason/Fun%20With%20Message%20Boards/Scalps.png)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 16, 2009, 10:10 AM
IB Spoiler:









Notice Pitt has a rope marks on his neck there. No one in the movie will ever talk about it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on June 16, 2009, 11:21 AM
Rope marks huh?  Watching the trailer I thought it was supposed to be a throat slashing scar.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on June 16, 2009, 11:33 AM
No one talks about the throat injury.   >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on June 16, 2009, 12:22 PM
That movie looks really stupid, from the looks of it it's going to be a mindless over the top violence & gore flick. Hopefully it will be better than his last few flicks, because they were real turd buglers. I am surprised Pitt's doing this.

Back to SW:
I am getting a little concerned over the 2nd Hoth Rebel like many others, I hope he is at least coming out in the fall wave like the 2nd Ugnaught. some site has to get this clarified before SDCC.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 16, 2009, 12:50 PM
I am getting a little concerned over the 2nd Hoth Rebel like many others, I hope he is at least coming out in the fall wave like the 2nd Ugnaught. some site has to get this clarified before SDCC.

Unless someone asked about him last Friday (6/12), we won't find out via the Q&A since (according to the most recent schedule) there is only one set of answers left between now and SDCC (answers on 7/2).

I am assuming that what they said for ugnaught #2 would also apply for the HRT #2 with him showing up in a Fall wave someplace.  I will put out a few feelers and see if we can confirm that is the case...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on June 16, 2009, 12:51 PM
Rope marks huh?  Watching the trailer I thought it was supposed to be a throat slashing scar.

Not according to the script. Which is awesome, BTW.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on June 16, 2009, 01:09 PM
I am getting a little concerned over the 2nd Hoth Rebel like many others, I hope he is at least coming out in the fall wave like the 2nd Ugnaught. some site has to get this clarified before SDCC.

Unless someone asked about him last Friday (6/12), we won't find out via the Q&A since (according to the most recent schedule) there is only one set of answers left between now and SDCC (answers on 7/2).

I am assuming that what they said for ugnaught #2 would also apply for the HRT #2 with him showing up in a Fall wave someplace.  I will put out a few feelers and see if we can confirm that is the case...
I reckon both will be part of the ESB Willrow wave...let's hope though that they don't take the spot of another 2 figures and are just additions to the 6 or 8 figures coming
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on June 16, 2009, 03:10 PM
Like others, I just hope that 2nd Hoth Rebel is easy to find.  I picked up several of beardo, but I'd rather have more of the more generic version to build out the ranks.  I still haven't seen any of these at retail (or this wave, aside from a lone Needa), but I've been able to get some via BBTS and HTS.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on June 16, 2009, 06:18 PM
I wouldn't be too worried about finding anything in this line... as long as you're looking actively, that is.  I can't remember a figure being hard to find since Revan/Malak.  And before that it was Ephant Mon.  Hasbro has a pretty good track record of producing a crapload of this stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on June 16, 2009, 06:27 PM
I wouldn't be too worried about finding anything in this line... as long as you're looking actively, that is.  I can't remember a figure being hard to find since Revan/Malak.  And before that it was Ephant Mon.  Hasbro has a pretty good track record of producing a crapload of this stuff.

I think it depends on where you live.  I still haven't seen an FX-6 in stores. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ryan on June 16, 2009, 06:37 PM
I wouldn't be too worried about finding anything in this line... as long as you're looking actively, that is.  I can't remember a figure being hard to find since Revan/Malak.  And before that it was Ephant Mon.  Hasbro has a pretty good track record of producing a crapload of this stuff.

I think it depends on where you live.  I still haven't seen an FX-6 in stores. 

I never saw him either, and have yet to see a Hoth Rebel or ESB Leia. And I've not seen any of the other wave 6 figures more than twice.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 16, 2009, 09:22 PM
I second the "where you live" sentiment...  Talk to almost anyone in the Northeast and the Wave 6 ESB figures are pretty scarce here.  Hoth Soldiers are non-existant too, when you do find the wave.  That's not a "new" wave at this point either.  It's been out for a bit now in other areas, but here we are and JUST this past week the first sightings in Pittsburgh occurred...  at two Wal-Marts.  Nowhere else in the area, has this wave shown up.

Wave 7...  Hah.  Not even thinking it's in the vicinity yet here.

Target's have basically got a lock on new stuff showing up here at all it seems too.  I haven't seen a new CW, Legends, or Legacy figure on pegs at those stores in ages.  TRU...  They're few and far between so trips to them aren't common.  They also never have much.

WM's it, and WM is pretty dry...

I'm not saying to "worry", but I think if you just want a set and see them show up on HasbroToyShop or somewhere, get them there.  Unfortunately my desire for extras of Needa, Hoth Rebel, and so on, make it a little more complex for me.  Fortunately one of the WM's that got them in I happened upon, but I know others locally who've not seen them at all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on June 17, 2009, 02:16 PM
I agree, where you live is a big factor obviously.  But in this day and age, you can find the stuff online via ebay, an online store or through other collectors.  I see a lot of people saying how bad they want the stuff and can't find it... which sucks but I do think most of it is attainable.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on June 17, 2009, 02:28 PM
No sign at all of wave 6 here in my part of Louisiana.  I'm not worried, but it would be nice if we could catch up with the rest of the country.  Also, I greatly prefer the head on the second Hoth trooper.  It seems more iconic of that trooper type to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 6, 2009, 11:53 AM
Hooray for a "we'll get to it in a few years" confirmed Echo Base Hoth Han (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/07/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-13.html)!  :)

3. Here's another Han Solo for your "parking lot" - what about combining the parts of Hoth Han and Bespin Han to give us an Echo Base Hangar Han Solo figure? One where he's wearing his brown pants (with yellow stripes) and the notorious Blue/Brown winter parka (hood down). Part Hoth Han, Part Bespin Han, but all good.

** Good spotting. That is one that we have our eyes on for a future version as well. Expect to see him within the next couple of years, most likely in the basic figure lineup.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on July 6, 2009, 12:22 PM
Nice question Jeff, and glad to hear that we'll likely be getting that figure in a couple of years.  Cool!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 6, 2009, 02:12 PM
From the gang at Rebelscum (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_73rd_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_123500.asp):

Rebelscum: You've stated a number of times that there will be 4 concept figures this year. We know the first one is the Anakin concept figure in the AOTC wave. Without mentioning which figures you have on tap for the other three, could you let us know which waves they will be in and can we expect to see the other three concept figures this year, or have any been pushed back to 2010?

Hasbro: The three will be coming this year, in the last three waves slated for 2010 (EpIV, EpIII, and EpV respectively). The first two red/white line look waves (EpI, followed by the epic EpVI wave) will not have concept figures.

Based on the other info they've given us about the concept figures (1x McQuarrie, 1x Johnston figure, 1x Jun, 1x Thompson), it seems to make the most sense that the Thompson concept piece will come in the Ep3 wave while the McQuarrie and Johnston pieces come in the ANH & ESB waves.

I hope Concept Lando is one of them... also wouldn't mind seeing Thompson's Wookiee Jedi concept turned into a figure, but that seems unlikely with the whole "we can't make Tyvokka 'cuz Lucas hates wookiee jedi" thing that Hasbro said a while back.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on July 6, 2009, 06:20 PM
I noticed in the Q and A over at SSG this week, Hasbro basically said that the AOTC wave might be a tough find at retail.  They mentioned that it was a shorter run since it was the last wave of the blue/white packaging, and that if people want to make sure they get it, they might want to head online.  I haven't seen this wave at all at retail (or the ESB wave for that matter), but got what I needed online so it isn't a big deal to me I guess - but it does stink when the last wave gets "left behind" like this.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 6, 2009, 07:30 PM
I noticed in the Q and A over at SSG this week, Hasbro basically said that the AOTC wave might be a tough find at retail.  They mentioned that it was a shorter run since it was the last wave of the blue/white packaging, and that if people want to make sure they get it, they might want to head online.  I haven't seen this wave at all at retail (or the ESB wave for that matter), but got what I needed online so it isn't a big deal to me I guess - but it does stink when the last wave gets "left behind" like this.

While I admit that I'm too lazy to go find it, I'm pretty sure that Hasbro has stated this before with regards to the AOTC wave.

It was the reason I ordered this wave by the case from Entertainment Earth - it felt better having the Blue/White Legacy Collection figures out of the way as opposed to sweating it out whether or not my local stores would even get in a case AND I'd be lucky enough to be the one collector to find it.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 6, 2009, 07:46 PM
This week's questions from Jedi Defender:

-What are the odds we get a couple new Endor Rebel Soldiers like the trenchcoated "Sergeant", and the open camo coat guy the Vintage Figure is based on?

-Any likelihood of "The Old Republic" MMORPG figures?

-Can we PLEASE get the Yavin Tech in the Legends Line?

Head on out to the front page to check out the Q's, the A's, and all that stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on July 7, 2009, 01:13 AM
-Can we PLEASE get the Yavin Tech in the Legends Line?

Nope. Kids want more recognizable, iconic characters, like Saesee Tiin. ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 7, 2009, 01:56 AM
I'll give Hasbro their notion that Jedi are more kid-friendly, but sometimes I think they overlook us a bit too much, and this is one of those cases.  I mean, the Technician is a big reason I think that set's moved as well as it has.  Maybe I'm overly optomistic there, but that's a damn good figure.  I'm glad I bought 5 sets or so, but man it was costly.

Either way, I hope they are happy with how well the figure is done, and that it sees the light of day again.  That's a lot of money put into a figure that really isn't common.  I know those packs are "rare" around me.  I've seen one in the last month at retail.  That seems uncommon to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 7, 2009, 05:24 AM
Ok - so the Clone Wars line is aimed at kids. That's fine. But the Saga Legends line is for kids too?

I was in a TRU on Monday night and this mom came into the Star Wars aisle with her two young sons.

One of the boys was trying to look through the figures, but since he was small, he couldn't see much, so I asked him what he was looking for and offered to help him look. He told me he wanted to get two figures - one good guy and one bad guy.

The "good guy" he wanted to get was the 501st Clonetrooper. So now he's on a quest to find a "bad guy" - based on what was on the pegs here was his options:

Darth Vader (Legends) - nope already had a couple of him
Darth Maul (Legends) - nope already had a Darth Maul figure
Super Battle Droid (Legends) - nope already had a bunch of those
Battle Droid (Clone Wars) - nope, same as the SBD
IG Assassain Droid (Clone Wars) - nope, already had one of him
Destroyer Droid (Clone Wars) - nope, already had a pair of them
Asajj Ventress - ABSOLUTELY NO "I don't get the girl figures!"

The kid ended up putting back the 501st Clone and saving his money for another day.

Ok so whatever play pattern, scheme, concept, idea Hasbro thinks they are serving with the Saga Legends line having Darth Vader, Darth Maul and the Super Battle Droid constantly in circulation - they lost a potential sale because they DO NOT provide enough variety through the Saga Legends line.

And what are they doing with the first wave of the Red/White Saga Legends - bringing out the EXACT SAME "bad guys" that this kid already had. Now I'm sure this kid is more of an exception than the norm, but the kid who buys or gets more than one Star Wars figure should be the core audience, not the kid who gets one figure and throws it in the closet. Hasbro should want kids to make repeat purchases (or nag their parents to make repeat purchases for them).

I think if Hasbro would consider packing in a better variety of figures as the Legends line progresses instead of the same core 12 figures over and over again, even when aiming the line at kids, they will end up being much better served. Making a blanket statement like the Yavin Rebel doesn't fit is just being ignorant of the market or lazy, I can't figure out which. Afterall, if there had been a generic Stormtrooper and a Yavin Rebel on the pegs, I could have shown him both of those and offered them as his potential mix of "good" and "bad" guy figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: commandernarra on July 8, 2009, 01:38 AM
I think we'll see a rerelease of The Yavin Tech, especially if Hasbro has to do a repaint wave further down the track. Surely their internal marketing shows this set to be a hit ? It hasn't be released yet downunder, but I've bought 13 loose tech of ebay as really good prices. I'd buy at least another ten if was single carded...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on July 8, 2009, 02:25 AM
I think we'll see a rerelease of The Yavin Tech

I hope so.  Literally, the last FOUR of that Battlepack I've stumbled across in stores has had the Tech swapped out for another figure and had been returned.

It's getting comical how often I'm running into that.  And it sucks too, because I want to buy the things but all I can find are tampered-with Yavin sets or Jabba sets.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 8, 2009, 02:48 AM
I hope so too, as they're simply not common here.

That said...  And not to move on abruptly, but no love for the Endor Rebel quesiton?

They're toying with us likely getting TWO new Endor Soldiers in the future?  And one is the trenchcoated Sergeant/squad leader!?  That friggin' rocks.  And Vinty guys have to love the notion of the open-camo coat guy from the vintage line also on the to-do-list!  He's seen best walking out behind Han from the Bunker when they all get caught.

I'm giddy at getting both...  I'd like to see the guys without the camo-coats redone too (with just the vests on), but really that's a great start to getting some Endor diversity for certain. :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on July 8, 2009, 03:37 AM
I think you might be reading more into the question than the actual response...

QUESTION:  It's time for some love for the Endor Rebels. We're curious to know if a possible future Endor Rebel figure could maybe be modeled on the "Sergeant" with the trench coat (like Sideshow's recent 12" figure). Also, the vintage Kener Endor Commando (with the opened camo coat) has never technically been recreated for the modern line. He'd make a good unique looking Endor Trooper in the future too! *hint hint*

ANSWER:  Hints taken..those are excellent figure selections. Right now we don't have a new Endor Commando slotted into the lineup, but it's only a mater of time before we get to them. We feel confident that at some point, one or both of those will see the light of day.


I think that means they're considering the Endor Rebels, but the way I read it they're in the proverbial "parking lot" and not in the production pipeline.




I think we'll see a rerelease of The Yavin Tech

I hope so.  Literally, the last FOUR of that Battlepack I've stumbled across in stores has had the Tech swapped out for another figure and had been returned.

It's getting comical how often I'm running into that.  And it sucks too, because I want to buy the things but all I can find are tampered-with Yavin sets or Jabba sets.

Oh, you've got a repeat swapper in your area, huh?  I've been dealing with one of those around me lately.  And I might have actually nailed him.  I pointed out some swapped figures to some Target employees a few weeks ago, and they actually pulled the swapped figures off the pegs.  And because some stores actually take personal info now regarding returns, they might have flagged the swapper in their system.  Because I haven't seen swapped figures in that particular store since then.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on July 8, 2009, 01:52 PM
I love that they are not against eventually making a Princess Kneesa figure. I have wanted one since i was a little kid.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 8, 2009, 02:21 PM
I'm not quite following how I'm reading more into it exactly.

First, Hasbro said this...

Quote
Hints taken..those are excellent figure selections. Right now we don't have a new Endor Commando slotted into the lineup, but it's only a mater of time before we get to them.

That's not really mixing words on their part, considering what I bolded for clarity.

They're not coming out tomorrow, no.  And they're not guaranteed because they're not given a hard timeline when they'll be out and that they're in production, etc...  But, they're definitely looking at them as strong contenders, and they worded it that I think they're all but confirmed, which suits me.  That's good news to me, and seems to back up what I said, which was this...

They're toying with us likely getting TWO new Endor Soldiers in the future?  And one is the trenchcoated Sergeant/squad leader!?  That friggin' rocks.  And Vinty guys have to love the notion of the open-camo coat guy from the vintage line also on the to-do-list!  He's seen best walking out behind Han from the Bunker when they all get caught.

I bolded it, for clarity, that I didn't claim these two as confirmed figures myself.  But strong contenders is a good thing considering I think many people really didn't consider the Endor Trooper high on Hasbro's list because of having one of the more "current" sculpts already with the last figure they did.  That they're strongly looking at two unique ones, including the vinty guy, is pretty sweet I think, and was better than the answer I was even hoping for! 

Actually I figured the vintage figure is something they were not considering, or considered "covered" with the original Endor Trooper, more or less.  They gave more of an answer than I even originally had hoped for.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on July 8, 2009, 04:22 PM
Indications seem to be that Hasbro has pretty well planned out the Basic Figure linethrough 2010.  If we're going to speculate about the line in 2011 and beyond, then I think the Endor Rebels stand a good chance based on Hasbro's relatively positive response.  But with all of that in mind I wouldn't expect to see a new Endor Rebel for about 2 years.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 9, 2009, 02:09 AM
Me either...  It's the mid point of 2009 now, so 2010's pretty well lined up and finalized...  Unless of course they were planning one of these all along of course, and just didn't want to divulge it in the Q&A...  That's probably less likely.  Regardless though, I'm pretty stoked that they've got the odds in their favor to happen eventually.  That's good stuff to me.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 11, 2009, 02:49 AM
A new round of Q's in, and a new round of A's out.  Just Click Right Here (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1249973168,1815,) if you're interested in:

-Will we actually get Vintage, Early Bird, or Sandstorm Chewbacca in the Legends Line?

-What are the odds we'll see more ball/socket wrist joints like on the CW3D Clones, on other figures?

-And while we're on the subject of those types of joints, can you tell us how you do them since they're two types of plastic molded around one another?

All the answers to these questions are a mere click away...  OOOOOOOOooooooooooooooo
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on August 12, 2009, 12:17 PM
I just noticed that in this round of Q and A's, Imperial Shipyards got confirmation of a new Taun Taun on the way in 2010.  In their answer, Hasbro indicates that it is likely to be an exclusive - but hopefully it won't be too tough to find.  This, along with the already confirmed Snowspeeder, is one of the remakes I was hoping for the most from ESB - so I'm definitely looking forward to 2010.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on August 13, 2009, 11:02 AM
Let's hope the Taun Taun doesn't wind up in the $30 camp like the Dewback.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 21, 2009, 03:15 AM
Another round incoming, with another round outgoing...  Here's this week's!

-What was the official word, finally, on those Indiana Jones figures that miraculously appeared during San Diego Comic-Con?

-We all love getting $5 rebate coupons with our figures, will that keep up and what's the deal with it?

-Funeral Pyre Vader...  What's it costing us?

Read the full story By Clicking Right Here!!! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1250838785,68045,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on August 21, 2009, 11:10 AM
Good questions this time JD!  Feel bad for you Indy guys though. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 10, 2009, 07:32 PM
The folks at Hasbro dished us a new trio of Q's with A's.

-Major Panno re-used?
-Death Star Technicians too?
-Rebel Pilots A Sub-Class?

All the answers to these questions are waiting if you Click Right Here! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1252625369,69262,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 11, 2009, 10:48 AM
I loved this exchange from RTM's Q&A:

Quote
Will any of the build-a-droid figures see re-release? (RTM, 2009-09-10)

     It's possible that additional figures using the parts could be produced, but the characters themselves in the buildable format are confined to the Legacy/Droid Factory series and none of them will ever be re-released. The possible exception being HK-47, since he was the buildable droid in a very low-production wave. If we do re-release him, we would probably re-release the whole wave of figures he came with in a new package format.

Given the relatively low production numbers on the HK-47 droid wave, will we ever see HK-47 released again? Perhaps in an online exclusive with Darth Revan, Malak, and some other KOTOR characters? (RTM, 2009-09-10)

     Right now there are no plans to release HK-47 again, but we are keeping our eye on this one. The one bright spot in this wave being the fact that there are up to twice as many HK-47s that can be built as any of the other characters released for the wave (the carry-forward figures in this wave also coming with "duplicate" HK-47 parts). The secondary market will come in handy in completing HK-47, as people open up the additional carry-forward figures to increase the available part pool.


Will you re-release any b-a-d- figures?
- Nope... except maybe HK-47.
What about HK-47?
- No plans to release HK-47 again.

 :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 11, 2009, 03:10 PM
Hah...

That's fantastic.

I was reading some of the other site's Q&A's out there, and I see there's some less than tactful questions this session. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on September 12, 2009, 10:37 AM
Regarding the pilots, it's like how Hasbro's handling the vintage upgrades - they're nearly done with doing all the OT pilots, but they just have to string those last few along for as long as possible.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 3, 2009, 02:34 AM
We've got another round of Q&A's for your viewing pleasure.  Click here to read 'em all! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1254551523,74367,)

-Republic Commando Updates?
-Boy that's a nifty new Sandtrooper, can we buy more?
-Where's the generic black TIE Pilot?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on October 3, 2009, 10:42 AM
I guess that new sandtrooper is the ultra articulated Stomtrooper that's been rumored. Can't wait to see one on a single card.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediJman on October 3, 2009, 02:52 PM
I guess that new sandtrooper is the ultra articulated Stomtrooper that's been rumored. Can't wait to see one on a single card.

Haven't heard about that rumor, but it does sound like some pretty cool upgrades to the sandtrooper.  Too bad I already have 50+ prior versions that will one day be obsolete.   :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: commandernarra on October 4, 2009, 01:04 AM
Can't believe Sandtroopers posted that last question, about the Organas:
QUESTION:  Now that  Hasbro has "supposedly" went around to some stores in some areas and removed the "peg warmers" of Yarna, Trinto Duaba, etc. - how long will it be before we can expect those figures to ship in the Legends line?

ANSWER:  It is not "supposed" - we *did* have our legions of retail folk pull back a number of slower moving figures including Yarna, Ak-Rev, the Organas, and Cantina aliens in order to remove them from retailer inventory and stimulate shipment of new waves. They are being destroyed and will never ship, in any form, again.  Was the comment about Legends just poking fun, or did you think we actually repacked poor-selling figures onto new cards?
 Man that shows some Balls...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 4, 2009, 01:20 AM
That's really a dickish way to ask a question. It's things like that that have the potential to ruin it for everybody. That question could have been simply worded like what happens to recalled inventory. (BTW they are not destroying it, HTS will resell them,. It may take years but it cost more money to destroy them That or they will be donated to charity for the write off)

I am glad Hasbro answered them back with disbelief. They should be kicked out of Q&A for that, not cool at all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on October 4, 2009, 10:35 AM
Too bad I already have 50+ prior versions that will one day be obsolete.   :P

Depends. The basic sculpt is still the same. It's not like they're going to be a Commtech to VOTC upgrade.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on October 4, 2009, 12:18 PM
That's really a dickish way to ask a question. It's things like that that have the potential to ruin it for everybody. That question could have been simply worded like what happens to recalled inventory. (BTW they are not destroying it, HTS will resell them,. It may take years but it cost more money to destroy them That or they will be donated to charity for the write off)

I am glad Hasbro answered them back with disbelief. They should be kicked out of Q&A for that, not cool at all.


WOW. And if I remember correctly, this isn't the first time Sandtroopers has stated a question doucheishly. I think there should definitely be some consequences for this kind of thing, like a temporary ban or something.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 4, 2009, 02:32 PM
That's really a dickish way to ask a question. It's things like that that have the potential to ruin it for everybody. That question could have been simply worded like what happens to recalled inventory. (BTW they are not destroying it, HTS will resell them,. It may take years but it cost more money to destroy them That or they will be donated to charity for the write off)

I am glad Hasbro answered them back with disbelief. They should be kicked out of Q&A for that, not cool at all.

The 'Troops have a track record of not pulling any punches with the Q&A sessions.  And they'll have to deal with the consequences of their tone.

I help run the Q&A process over at JTA, and we've got some standards for what questions we submit and the tone in which we ask a question.  Treat the folks at Hasbro with some respect, and guess what?  They're going play nice with you and occassionally confirm something you're asking about.  Treat them like garbage?  Then they're less than likely to give you something that's newsworthy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on October 4, 2009, 10:51 PM
Yeah, I was reading this earlier and found the question and answer both curious.

I simply cannot believe they would simply destroy those figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 5, 2009, 01:17 AM
Wow, well...  uhm, ok.  :)

We get some rough questions here too (griping is a big thing that has improved and helped the line evolve since its beginings), and I've never been a guy who feels Hasbro deserves to have slack cut them for anything.  They're a business, we're consumers, and so there's a set relationship there.  I also don't think Hasbro, as professionals, would hold anything against the masses...  It's been suggested in the past, but I don't think it's realistic.  They're not kids who get so hurt by the opinion of a collector at some site, that they'd shut everyone off and take their ball and go home.

What I do think though, is that you are attempting a professional presentation of the site you "work" for...  You need to be equally professional in your correspondence, and that's disappointing to read, actually.  Is editing "fair" to the reader?  Perhaps, and perhaps not...  Then again websites aren't places where readers are entitled to anything either.

Do I agree that the Legends line is a problem?  To a degree, yes, and I think Hasbro should maybe listen to the collecting world somewhat, at least, on the Legends assortment (and perhaps trying harder to meld Legacy/Legends into one line again and not attempting 3 separate lines, but I digress).

I can also attest to seeing figures like Yarna, the Organa's and whatnot being pulled...  There's nothing "supposed" to that, and it was simply a fact.  I'm sure some are still out there though.  I know locally we do have some still lingering on (and on and on and on it seems).  But really, if you wanted to know what those figure's demise ultimately was, you probably should've just asked that point blank, and attempted less sarcasm (or taken the past "word" that they get destroyed as the answer, and just left it at that).  Again, professionalism.

Hasbro's been that courteous back to the community, without trying to dump on things the fans like or want, so fair is fair obviously...  Someone could ask for a new AT-AT, and Hasbro could reply saying, "What are you, retarded!?  The current one is as good as it ever will get, and if you think you can do better then build one yourself", or something.  Of course, a reader/viewer has his or her opinion and expresses it however they want, but I don't think I'd want to convey a **** attitude towards Hasbro through a question from a reader.  It could've been edited to be a tad more polite while still addressing the issue it brings up of course, without losing the underlying tone that collector's aren't happy with what they're seeing with the Legacy or Legends Line and a backlog of pegwarmers.

I could rattle off a butt-ton of things I'm not happy about...  

-I want that 2nd Hoth Trooper headsculpt in some quantity someday.
-I would like to see a lower price on figures overall.
-There's a handful of figures I'd like to see done because they're overdue.
-I'd like to see some ships/vehicles improved that are 30 years old here now.

But I doubt I drop a  ::) in with some snide remarks, hoping to hear positive news on those fronts...  ya know?  Or any news really...  It's not really worth a response at that point.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 6, 2009, 01:52 PM
I was sort of surprised that in this round of Q and A's, Hasbro confirmed that there would be no ANH wave in 2010 (but it would be the first wave of 2011).  I guess we did get (or will) two 8 figure waves from that movie this year though, and it has gotten a fair amount of attention lately when the OT has actually been featured in the line.  I'm guessing we'll get a couple of waves focused on ESB with the anniversary, and we know there is at least one ROTJ wave on the way with a few confirmations from past Q and A's.  If they are counting the EU wave as the first of 2010, I wonder what the rest of the year will look like?  I suppose we could piece things together a bit from past Q and A confirmations, and knowing that they are planning on 40-45 figures for the year (which would probably be around 7 waves or so).  I just hope it isn't incredibly PT heavy since we're not getting any waves from ANH, we've had enough of that over the past few years (although this year will be better).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on October 6, 2009, 02:30 PM
I hope they're not destroying figures.  If they want to go that route, donating them to charity would make more sense... Christmas is right around the corner.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 6, 2009, 04:11 PM
If they're destroying them, I have a feeling it's because they feel "why should a kid get a figure nobody wants", ya know?  Most companies do donate, and would probably donate more worthy toys like CW figures or other things a child would more actively want, than a six-tittied fat chick, or whatnot...

For some reason I recall that being mentioned in the past, as to a possible reason why figures get "destroyed".  I know though that it's not been a mystery as to what happens to them as well, as Hasbro's said in the past that figures pulled are generally destroyed.

Would a kid be excited to get the Organa's?  I don't know. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: GrandMoffNick on October 6, 2009, 04:15 PM
One year my dad and step-mom had to get us stuff from Santa Anonymous. We got a basketball, pencil sharpener, and something else I forget. I would have been thrilled to get an action figure even if I didn't know the line it was from let alone if it had been SW.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 7, 2009, 02:30 AM
I'll rephrase my thought I guess some...  Kids aren't maybe picky about it, but the company perhaps feels they should donate things that they know will be more appealing to kids.

In local donation programs the "rules" generally imply to give something you'd want to give to your own children, or think they would enjoy...  I think some of it is the thought behind the item, rather than giving the "leftovers" to the kids who can't afford stuff.

I'm sure Hasbro donates a lot of toys every year...  I'm not against them destroying cast-offs that they feel aren't something a child would be happy getting, or that it's just going to a poor child because nobody else wanted it...  If that makes any sense.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on October 7, 2009, 10:27 AM
I disagree about the donation stuff. Why do there have to be any RULES at all? Why qualify a charitable gesture?

When charities run can drives, people always donate their least used items. And they are happy to have them. I don't see why it would be any different for action figures.

Something is always better than nothing. Who's to say what will appeal to kids and what won't?

I think it is an obscene waste of time and money to destroy any action figure that is still serviceable.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 7, 2009, 04:11 PM
Hasbro's pretty good at discerning what they think kids will like, or not...  considering the business they're in.  Toys and food aren't exactly comparable either.  I personally try to donate food that I think a family would appreciate having more when I donate to the food group locally, but sometimes I send things I didn't want/like.  I've donated toys I "didn't have a use for" as well, but that's because I figure it's better than ME destroying it since I can't do anything else with it.  Who knows, maybe a kid got it and was disappointed in it?  Kids are kids afterall...  I can't blame them really.

The local toy drive which the PSWCS puts on every year with Toys for Tots asks for Star Wars toy donations that are packaged and some other "rules" (they're not really rules, more like guidelines) that you should donate something nice that you think a kid would like.  I think Lightsabers make cool gifts for that every year because of how much kids like the role-play stuff.  I try not to unload just old stuff I don't want or which I don't think a kid would like.

Hasbro doesn't have "rules", just their own set of standards I suppose as well, as to whether they donate it or not...  or so it would seem.

I could be completely wrong too, and Hasbro are just pricks and want to destroy this stuff rather than donate it, but I really don't know...  Maybe someone at some site should ask that?  I do know that their destruction isn't new news though, and Episode 1 toys, Episode 2 toys and other stuff in the past has been canned after it was pulled off shelves by Hasbro reps and sent back.  Hasbro could try (since they probably paid to take it off the shelves at retail) to sell it to TJ Maxx or another bulk overstock store as well, but I guess incineration is better?  Who knows.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Greedo The Green Menace on October 7, 2009, 06:40 PM
So when these things get incinerated, what then? Can the melted down plastic be re-used? Seems horribly un eco friendly.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 7, 2009, 07:13 PM
That I can answer, and say that no it cannot be re-used...  not in the injection-molding process at least.

Probably not eco-friendly, no...  then again Hasbro's never claimed to be a green company either.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on October 23, 2009, 06:36 PM
The Latest (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1256337241,43838,)

- EpII History and Updates
- Zam Wessel?
- Captain Antilles?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 23, 2009, 06:59 PM
No new SA Bespin Han until 2011. (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-18.html)  >:(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on October 23, 2009, 07:08 PM
Good stuff on the Saga Line history...I don't think any figure represents crap more than this:

(http://www.rebelscum.com/swsaga/saga-macegr_front.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: David on October 23, 2009, 07:29 PM
I dunno, this one's always been one of my favorites:


(http://www.rebelscum.com/swsaga/sw0312barrissoffeeblock.jpg)


NOT.

BTW, thanks for FINALLY asking not one, but TWO Zam Wesell questions. I've been requesting that one as long as I've been on this forum. 8)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on October 23, 2009, 08:23 PM
Where's  a picture of Eeth Koth when i need one
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt_Fury on October 23, 2009, 09:07 PM
I actually found a use for the Eeth Koth.  He's fighting a Super Battle Driod on my windowsill.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 23, 2009, 09:28 PM
No new SA Bespin Han until 2011. (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-18.html)  >:(

 >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(

The 30th Anniversary of ESB and they do not have in in there. WTF!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on October 23, 2009, 09:42 PM
I fear the "Other" Han will be the Cantina Han....


(http://www.jedidefender.com/gallery/files/gallery/Collectibles/Modern/Original_Trilogy_Collection/Basic_Figures/07_Han_Solo/potf2_hancant_f.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on October 23, 2009, 09:54 PM
No new SA Bespin Han until 2011. (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-18.html)  >:(

Yeah, that stinks.  It's good that he is coming at some point of course but 2011 blows especially when the 30th ESB anniversary is next year and the Celebration V and all it would have been the perfect time.  But yeah, it will probably be ANH Han instead.  I don't get Hasbro sometimes.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on October 23, 2009, 10:02 PM
There are a bunch of Saga stinkers and for the most part they have remedied the situation.  It almost sounds like carded collectors were being thought of more than loose collectors.  I wonder if there were carded people on the design team at the time?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 23, 2009, 10:37 PM
No new SA Bespin Han until 2011. (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/10/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-18.html)  >:(

Pretty disappointed about this one too.  I think in past Q and A's they were sort of hinting that way, but it seemed like the perfect to release this figures with the anniversary and everything last year.  I wonder what version of Han we'll see then?  I think in the last round of questions, they already said there was no ANH wave next year, so that takes care of a Ceremony Han or something like that.  Unless they are thinking of re-releasing the VTSC Hoth Han or Endor Han, I would think it might be a Carbonite (or pre-Carbonite) Han - or didn't they mention something (it might have been at Han's Hideout as well) about the "Hoth Hangar bay" version of Han with the open coat/etc.?

Otherwise, some cool stuff in the Q and A's again this time.  I noticed a couple more answers continuing to list the problems with getting Legacy to retail, and how the collector base is struggling.  Regardless, I'm still really looking forward to next year.  The figures have really been top notch lately, and some of the rumors/confirmations make for a nice lineup going forward.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on October 24, 2009, 01:47 PM
At some point recently, can't remember where, Hasbro mentioned a Han they were working on which is a Hoth/Bespin Hybrid - basically wearing an open Hoth parka jacket.  Maybe that's what they're doing.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 24, 2009, 02:43 PM
didn't they mention something (it might have been at Han's Hideout as well) about the "Hoth Hangar bay" version of Han with the open coat/etc.?

At some point recently, can't remember where, Hasbro mentioned a Han they were working on which is a Hoth/Bespin Hybrid

Brian was right, it was at HH (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/07/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-13.html):

3. Here's another Han Solo for your "parking lot" - what about combining the parts of Hoth Han and Bespin Han to give us an Echo Base Hangar Han Solo figure? One where he's wearing his brown pants (with yellow stripes) and the notorious Blue/Brown winter parka (hood down). Part Hoth Han, Part Bespin Han, but all good.

** Good spotting. That is one that we have our eyes on for a future version as well. Expect to see him within the next couple of years, most likely in the basic figure lineup.

As the author of that question and fan of all things Han Solo, I'd love an Echo Base Hangar Han...  but I think I'd rather have a new SA Bespin Han first.  Seems like the bigger need to me if they are looking for an ESB Han.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 24, 2009, 06:45 PM
As the author of that question and fan of all things Han Solo, I'd love an Echo Base Hangar Han...  but I think I'd rather have a new SA Bespin Han first.  Seems like the bigger need to me if they are looking for an ESB Han.

Yeah, I agree Jeff.  It sounds like a neat version, and I'll happily pick up a few when it is released, but I was really looking forward to that new Bespin Han Solo, maybe my favorite version/look for Han.  I thought that the anniversary of ESB would be a great time for it as well.  At least we know it is on the way in the next couple of years, and hopefully the "other" Han will end up being spiffy as well.  I think they are getting close to having the rest covered pretty well though at this point - with the exception of new ones like this possible Echo base version, or possibly a new Carbonite Han.

I'm wondering now from the various info and confirmations we've gotten over the past months via the Q and A's if we can start to "piece together" the TLC lineup for 2010.  We know that they are shooting in the 40-45 figure range, that there is a focus on ESB (I wonder if that means two waves), that there won't be an ANH wave in 2010, and that there must be a ROTJ wave (with the Wooof and Gam. Guard confirmations).  I'm sure there is more information I'm forgetting/missing, but we might start to get a better idea of what is on the way next year.  There are some individual figure confirmations we've gotten that might help sort things out a bit too (like this week's answer that there will be some sort of Han Solo next year).  I'm sort of surprised there haven't been any "rumor lists" for next year yet, as we're almost to November now.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 24, 2009, 08:50 PM
A new carbonite Han would be most welcome in my book.  The last TESB version as a basic figure was in the POTF2 line.  They could easily get away with repainting the TSC carbonite block and retooling one of the vintage Han Solo's for a new (or at least kitbashed) carbonite Han Solo.  But I am disappointed about the delay on the Bespin Han.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 16, 2009, 07:49 PM
Yakface (http://www.yakfaceforums.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=125&t=4970) has a nice round of questions up for this round of Q and A, but I was a little disappointed that the rumored new Taun Taun is being scrapped.  Hopefully it will get another chance in the future, although the anniversary of Empire next year would have made a nice time for it.  It does sound like Jabba is on the way though, which is great news (and hopefully it is well worth the wait).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on November 16, 2009, 08:17 PM
Wow - confirming no Bespin Han in 2010 last week and no Taun-Taun upgrade in 2010 this week? 

They're really going all out for ESB's 30th Anniversary!    :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 16, 2009, 09:59 PM
Jedi Defender's Q&A Session (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1258426627,77449,) is posted for this round...

-Why are the pins not always the right color?
-Octuparra & AT-TE Repaints?
-Why are more Pegwarmers Shipping after you cleared them, and will you clear these out too?

Click the link above to read the answers, and enjoy.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on November 16, 2009, 10:43 PM
Hm, if the Octuptarra isn't selling so well, I would say it's due more to the price bump than the toy itself. Everyone I know who has bought one has loved it. Sounds like a one and done...bummer.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 16, 2009, 10:48 PM
I'm a little disappointed at that answer as well.  I like it, and even at the price I like it, but I'd like a ROTS deco better than the CW one, and I'm sad we won't be getting htat it appears.

It is a stagnant toy though.  Not moving much locally.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on November 16, 2009, 11:09 PM
Ironic that they're threatening to not re-release the Octuparra droid because of the lackluster sales when a lot of people (myself included) aren't interested in the EU deco and are holding out for a ROTS accurate one.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 16, 2009, 11:20 PM
I mean I can see why they painted it the way they did, but I don't know that a movie deco would've done worse either so that is kind of humorous. 

It's definitely not selling and I think a lot of it is the price like others mentioned.  It hurts when it's $10 more than similar sized packages on the nearby shelf, and people don't really gather by the box just how big it is.  It makes me wonder if this had come in a large (or window?) type box, would it have done better at retail perhaps? 

There's a lot of construction to it so a window box maybe wouldn't have looked right.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on November 16, 2009, 11:48 PM
I'm a little disappointed at that answer as well.  I like it, and even at the price I like it, but I'd like a ROTS deco better than the CW one, and I'm sad we won't be getting htat it appears.

It is a stagnant toy though.  Not moving much locally.

It's super overpriced at $35.  I like the looks of the toy but geez $35 for a $25 toy tops is what enters my mind.  I blame Wal-Mart soley for this debacle  :'(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on November 17, 2009, 09:58 AM
Yep, I would also add that Walmart deserves some blame for not actually sticking these in the proper SW section too. Like the Dewbacks and AT-ST, I find these things scattered all over their toy department. Even if you wanted one it is hard to find in some locations. And then again there are some stores with tons sitting on an endcap.

If they drop the price, I'll be tempted to buy another one just to open it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on November 17, 2009, 10:57 AM
I'm a little disappointed at that answer as well.  I like it, and even at the price I like it, but I'd like a ROTS deco better than the CW one, and I'm sad we won't be getting htat it appears.

It is a stagnant toy though.  Not moving much locally.

It's super overpriced at $35.  I like the looks of the toy but geez $35 for a $25 toy tops is what enters my mind.  I blame Wal-Mart soley for this debacle  :'(

completely agree.  I am waiting for this to drop a bit in price.  I would buy at $25.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on November 17, 2009, 11:04 AM
I think the Octuptarra Droid is a little overpriced when compared to the Dewback and AT-ST but thought it was worth it.  It's a pretty awesome toy and it is huge.  I normally don't like window boxes, but this one was a candidate for that treatment, just to show it off and you could really see what you were getting for your money.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 17, 2009, 11:54 AM
Wow - confirming no Bespin Han in 2010 last week and no Taun-Taun upgrade in 2010 this week? 

They're really going all out for ESB's 30th Anniversary!    :P

Yeah, they seem to be cancelling all these big ESB redos that I was looking forward to the most.  I just hope we don't hear that the all-new Snowspeeder got shelved as well.  We keep hearing about these big ESB anniversary plans, but some of these (Han, Taun Taun, etc.) really seem like they would have been great inclusions for next year.  Hopefully they've got some surprises in store.  I have to say, there doesn't seem to be many rumor lists going around for 2010, compared to other years.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on November 18, 2009, 09:42 AM
Thought I'd post this in here as well.

Adam P. at 16bit.com (http://www.16bit.com/) confirmed that TODO 360 (http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Todo_360) was intended to be included with Cad Bane but was dropped due to costing issues. Fortunately, they are looking to release him/it somehow in 2010.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on November 18, 2009, 10:02 AM
Thought I'd post this in here as well.

Adam P. at 16bit.com (http://www.16bit.com/) confirmed that TODO 360 (http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Todo_360) was intended to be included with Cad Bane but was dropped due to costing issues. Fortunately, they are looking to release him/it somehow in 2010.

Battlepack fodder.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 19, 2009, 12:03 PM
I somehow get the feeling since the "EU wave" is the last of the Legacy/Build a Droid collection, we're going to see another long dry spell in the "realistic/movie" line of figures.  I'm expecting there is going to be a cardback/line change following the EU wave, and there always seems to be a bit of a drag while they are trying to get previous waves off the pegs.  Then there is always that "last wave syndrome" we see as well.  Although I know a number of the figures in the EU wave are much requested (and I hope to pick up some if not all of them as well), I guess I'd rather that be the tougher wave to find than something like the ESB wave prior to it.  I just hope we don't have another 4-6 months with next to nothing, then a 6 wave extravaganza in two months at the end of 2010.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on November 19, 2009, 12:11 PM
I just hope we don't have another 4-6 months with next to nothing, then a 6 wave extravaganza in two months at the end of 2010.

You said it. I think that will be unavoidable as we should have seen 2010 wave 2 by now or at least know the wave. I expect not to see that 2nd wave on shelf until late March/April if that. We should at the very least see some leaks in the next 3 weeks.

I am expecting another drought for sure. I hope they at least not have it as bad as this years.
(I really like this entire wave and hope it ships this year I have two case of it on order from BBTS.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on November 19, 2009, 12:22 PM
I expect not to see that 2nd wave on shelf until late March/April if that.

More and more it is sounding like the ESB wave will hit Dec/Jan'10 and the EU Wave will be Jan/Feb'10 and then.... nothing until July'10 when the new line look debuts.  A lot like 2008 where we got the TFU wave in Feb/March and then had no basic figures until the July Legacy/CW launch. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 19, 2009, 02:07 PM
That's what I'm afraid of.  I really hope not, but it wouldn't be surprising if we had that long of a wait.  I just wish they could get it figured out to have a wave every other month or so instead of this wonky pattern we've had the last couple years.  We've discussed it to all ends already I know, but these types of years (so back heavy) are really tough for me (and others) to keep up with I think.  Sure, I should just save up on those "off" months, but it never seems to work out that way :).  Hopefully we'll get a big unveiling of the new line at Toy Fair, since we keep getting all these "we have big things planned for collectors" and "we have big plans for the anniversary of ESB" comments from Hasbro.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on November 19, 2009, 02:16 PM
I'm afraid of that too.  Hasbro has to realize that sort of strategy hurts the line.  Little product for several months, then overload.  It's getting tiresome.  They should be able to do better than that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on November 19, 2009, 02:23 PM
More and more it is sounding like the ESB wave will hit Dec/Jan'10 and the EU Wave will be Jan/Feb'10 and then.... nothing until July'10 when the new line look debuts.  A lot like 2008 where we got the TFU wave in Feb/March and then had no basic figures until the July Legacy/CW launch.  

The only reason I stated what I did is that the ESB wave is trickling in CA now so by months ends as long as sales are brisk we should see it this month. The EU wave should be on for next month. That will really suck if there are no new figures Jan-July for the mainline. Hasbro usually has a new wave hitting at TF time in Feb but if there is a package change it could very well be that long. Who knows anymore you can no longer take their word for it as they seem to change their statements every 2 weeks.

The glut runs are too expensive for most collectors that's where they will see more of a drop off should it continue.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on November 19, 2009, 02:24 PM
I'm afraid of that too.  Hasbro has to realize that sort of strategy hurts the line.  Little product for several months, then overload.  It's getting tiresome.  They should be able to do better than that.

In a perfect world yes, but as my friend Jeff said recently, when that is coupled with factory production problems, high raw material cost, extensive product safety testing, customs delays and the overall state of the economy where stores buy/order/stock less, it culminated in a perfect storm that was 2008-09 Star Wars collecting.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on November 19, 2009, 02:29 PM
I'm afraid of that too.  Hasbro has to realize that sort of strategy hurts the line.  Little product for several months, then overload.  It's getting tiresome.  They should be able to do better than that.

In a perfect world yes, but as my friend Jeff said recently, when that is coupled with factory production problems, high raw material cost, extensive product safety testing, customs delays and the overall state of the economy where stores buy/order/stock less, it culminated in a perfect storm that was 2008-09 Star Wars collecting.

That is all very true and understandable but there was/is also some big ball drops by Hasbro. Some of this was very avoidable.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on November 20, 2009, 09:27 AM
Don't throw tomatoes, but like having breaks. I don't think it's going to happen like you guys are saying, but if it did, I'd enjoy it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 21, 2009, 01:15 AM
I like breaks when we're deluged like we have been lately (and it's not even really a deluge, I just lucked into a lot of the stuff I found actually).  In a normal distribution scenario like 2007's line-up though, breaks kind of suck.  :-\

Then again breaks also kind of mean things are a mess to begin with... I'd rather the steady and seemingly less inexpensive stream I suppose.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 10, 2009, 04:09 PM
The latest round of Q&A have been posted...

-What happened to the film-accurate deco on the Evolutions Jango?

-How about the possibility of resculpting dancers like Oola, or band guys like the Max Rebo guys or Cantina Bith?

-Have you exhausted a certain film to the point you're not going back to it anytime soon?


The answers to all this, and some extra info too, awaits you if you Read the Q&A (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1260479120,75189,)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 04:26 PM
The mixed film waves starting spring 2011 was a very insightful answer. One of the most I ever read in a Q&A. I am nor sure how I feel about that, but I can understand the logic. I hope they split it up to OT or PT waves. Instead of a dash of every film in each wave.

I hope Han Bespin gets out before then, he is my most wanted.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 05:13 PM
Sounds like a major drought is coming (Answer from Jedi Temple news)

A. The EU wave that was shown at Comic Con will be the last of the red/white Legacy series for Spring 2010. The Legacy-type basic figure line scheduled to launch next Fall will follow a wave theme to ensure that each movie gets one focused wave, then we will change to a non-wave based system. The way it looks currently, there will be Fall 2010 waves for EpII, III, V, and VI (not in that order) with EpI and IV getting waves at the beginning of 2011.

It's going to be a long summer again........

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 10, 2009, 07:44 PM
I think we'll see something similar to this past spring.  We're probably likely to see some more Clone Wars, plus battle packs and comic packs.  But it does look like it's going to be a quiet spring.


didn't they mention something (it might have been at Han's Hideout as well) about the "Hoth Hangar bay" version of Han with the open coat/etc.?

At some point recently, can't remember where, Hasbro mentioned a Han they were working on which is a Hoth/Bespin Hybrid

Brian was right, it was at HH (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/07/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-13.html):

3. Here's another Han Solo for your "parking lot" - what about combining the parts of Hoth Han and Bespin Han to give us an Echo Base Hangar Han Solo figure? One where he's wearing his brown pants (with yellow stripes) and the notorious Blue/Brown winter parka (hood down). Part Hoth Han, Part Bespin Han, but all good.

** Good spotting. That is one that we have our eyes on for a future version as well. Expect to see him within the next couple of years, most likely in the basic figure lineup.

As the author of that question and fan of all things Han Solo, I'd love an Echo Base Hangar Han...  but I think I'd rather have a new SA Bespin Han first.  Seems like the bigger need to me if they are looking for an ESB Han.


Based on the responses this week, I think you were onto something with this question, Jeff.  I think the TESB wave Han Solo that Hasbro confirmed for next fall may very well be that Echo Base Hangar version.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 08:41 PM
Han Hoth with SA legs? (So he can sit on a Taun Taun)
Mynock Hunt Han as other suggested which would be Bespin Han?

I am a little sick and satisfied with the Han Hoth's we have, an open coat version would be pretty stupid to to put in front of the Bespin Han we all want.

Watch this actually be "Bespin" Han but they will call him Echo Base Escape Han Solo. This is a throw off answer.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 10, 2009, 08:47 PM
The mixed film waves starting spring 2011 was a very insightful answer.

Yeah, it looks like one last "hurrah" for each film in Fall '10/Spring '11 and then onto the mixed waves in late 2011.  Should be interesting to see how that plays out.

Is this a sign, beyond perhaps the Legacy slowdown having some impact, that the well's running dry?  It makes me think that's maybe more the issue and that it's tougher to make a solid wave dedicated to a film every time they put one out.  Some movies have more figure availability than others, but some just seem pretty tapped.  That ROTS wave really still has me thinking how bland it was.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 09:02 PM
I think it's several factors, the ones you mentioned plus the popularity of the animated crap. I do not mind mixed waves so long as they seperate OT and PT. At this point I would be happy to hear more robust wave news.

According to a Q&A at Dewback Patrol we only have 24 Basic mainline figures coming in 2010. 4 waves 6 figures in each. This is just dreadful. Here it is:
1. With next years line up completed can we get some of my favorite info? How many Legacy figures? How many CW figures? What movies will be represented? How many waves? How many figures from each movie? How many comic packs? How many of the super build a droid figures that I hope continue? Any info would be great! Thanks!
– Dewbackunter

In the Legacy-type line, there will be one EU-focused wave to close out the red/white line look, and then a gap until August when the new movie-focused line will debut. This wave will feature the last of the buildable Droid Factory figures. In Fall, there will be waves for EpII, II, V, and VI (although not in that order) with about 24 new/retooled characters for Fall debuting along with a number of "greatest hits" (package refreshed) to round out the waves. There are about 32 new Clone Wars characters between spring and Fall. The last Comic Pack wave will be the Fall 2010 wave shown at Comic Con which will be out sometime in March; the Spring 2010 Comic Packs have been canceled, but we are looking for opportunities to bring these figures out in 2011.

No new DF until August. :-X :-X :-X :-X :-X :-X :-X :-X :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P :P >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( >:( :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 10, 2009, 09:12 PM
Honestly I'm ok with cutbacks.  24 seems low, but maybe it's for the best.  Especially if, once again, we're going to have a Fall season scrambling as wave upon wave back up into the system, and people are not finding this or that...

This was the first year since 1999 I haven't seen every figure on the pegs at least once.  That sucked hard, so I don't mind seeing them cut back if we're going to go all Summer without anything shipping.  Money saved I guess that I'll put towards more important stuff this year.  I'm ok with this...

And of course there's always exclusives to probably fill the voids.  Seems like it's been that way in 2009 anyway.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 09:25 PM
Hey there is some hope for more (sometime disbelieving can actually work)I just read their questions which answered the most questions in a Q&A. If you read the last sentence from the ADMIN it says:

I was told to disregard the first answer from Hasbro and that a new one would be sent soon. Stop back soon…

(That 4 wave/24 figure answer was the first question.......)

They had some of the most robust answers I ever read for the real insight of the current situation:
http://dewbackpatrol.com/phpBB4/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=160
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: commandernarra on December 10, 2009, 09:31 PM
Totally Gobsmacked by this answer of at YAK concerning this missing accessories in the MQ Boxsets
3: Since their reveal at SDCC, collectors who missed out on acquiring all of carded TAC McQuarrie Concept figures were overjoyed at being able to fill those holes with additions of the McQuarrie Signature Series boxed sets to their collections. Now that they have been released, those same collectors are in a state of disappointment as many of the accessories have been left out, leaving Jedi without the lightsabers, holsters without blasters to fill them and alternate head sculpts to never be displayed. What is the reasoning behind the short change considering the missing parts exist? Was it a costing issue? If so, why then were some of the figures repainted slightly from their original releases?

A3: The paint differences were not deliberate.  Nowadays, when we re-release figures, the factories have to create all new spray masks for figures if the figure has been out of production (as all of the McQuarrie figures had been).  As such, some differences, even if subtle, resulted.  This was not intentional.  Regarding the accessories, we are baffled ourselves as to why these were left out as the intention to was re-release the McQuarrie figures exactly as they were originally released. However, at this point there is nothing we can do, since we did not indicate on package that they come with anything beyond what is shown in package.
Baffled is their answer. Baffled. Who is running the show over there?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 10, 2009, 09:46 PM
That is a weird one...  I thought maybe they'd offer a set of the accessories if you could prove you bought the set (a receipt or whatever) and demand a production of the unproduced accessories from the factory who made those sets and obviously have the molds for them.

That's a weird one if I ever saw it.  It really, to me, made those McQuarrie sets pretty pointless.  I pay $2 a pop for incomplete figures at the local toy show...  I wouldn't shell out money like that for incomplete ones still in the friggin' package.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 10, 2009, 10:07 PM
Based on the responses this week, I think you were onto something with this question, Jeff.  I think the TESB wave Han Solo that Hasbro confirmed for next fall may very well be that Echo Base Hangar version.

A bit more from HH (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2009/12/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-20.html):

2. Again, a follow up from previous - no Bespin Han in 2010, eh? I have to tell you, that's a huge bummer to a big Han fan like myself. With the 30th Anniversary of ESB, I thought he'd be a lock for 2010. Now you have to tell me which Han we're getting in 2010 so I can regain confidence that my main man is going to be treated all right in 2010! If you can't tell us which Han it is, can you at least tell us the source he's from?

** Bespin Han has been pushed out to 2011, to make room for a *new* Han that we have not produced before. We can't tell you exactly which one just yet, but it is from a brief scene and features a new jacket. We were excited to be able to deliver some newness for next year with the 30th Anniversary of EpV on tap.

So... a new jacket?  I'd say that's even more evidence that it's Echo Base Hangar Han.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 10, 2009, 10:18 PM
Hey there is some hope for more (sometime disbelieving can actually work)I just read their questions which answered the most questions in a Q&A. If you read the last sentence from the ADMIN it says:

I was told to disregard the first answer from Hasbro and that a new one would be sent soon. Stop back soon…

I just took that line to mean they were disregarding the first answer they got for question #3 (where the line was posted and hence why there is no answer posted for question #3), I don't think they meant to disregard the first answer to the first question.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 10, 2009, 10:31 PM
Again Hasbro is very forthright.  I'm glad the line is shrinking.  It is simply insane that it continues to field so much product, even in the midst of a downturn.  There are too many choices.  We missed the Octopurra Droid?  For $35, I don't miss it so much.   A couple great exclusives, with some great figure waves is really all we need.  I don't blame Hasbro for all they do, but it's all at once and it's overwhelming.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 10, 2009, 11:43 PM
I am really bummed at the slowdown as well as a small basic figure offering for the old mainline. I do not welcome this news and actually think it will hurt the line in the long run. Many collectors are going to lose interest if they continue down the path of this 4th quarter dry 6 month period crap. I really hope they have some good exclusives during the drought and really hope to see the heavily rumored AT-AT.

In regards to Han, it's a pretty stupid choice if you ask me. While I am sure he will look nice that version should be slotted for 2011. It's the 30th annv of ESB for God's sake and we get yet another Hoth Han. We got two of them in Legacy and one in Saga2. Enough already, I do not want to see another Hoth Han until they redo the Taun-Taun.

I should not be surprised as Hasbro said they think Queen Apailana would make a great figure. So far I am not digging the prospects of 2010 (Yes, I know i sound like Debbie Downer). I really hope they pull out some magical **** like WM Jabba/Dias, BMF AT-AT, Hoth Troopers to make up for this. I am not down with the cartoon figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth_Anton on December 11, 2009, 09:04 AM
A lot of disappointing news in this weeks rounds. Perhaps the most disappointing (for me) is the lack of the scanning trooper variant this and next year confirmed by Han's hideout. That means I'll have to pick up a few more of the current version.  :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 11, 2009, 09:38 AM
A lot of disappointing news in this weeks rounds. Perhaps the most disappointing (for me) is the lack of the scanning trooper variant this and next year confirmed by Han's hideout. That means I'll have to pick up a few more of the current version.  :(

Damn right we got a lot of terrible news out of this weeks Q&A:
- EU wave is the last wave until august.
- EU wave is the last BAD
- Scanning crew 2 is TBD
- 24 New Figures in 2010
- Han Bespin is 2011 but we get yet another Han Hoth before him. Whoopie dee his Jacket is open and comes with a pair of gloves to berate a Deck officer.
- Comic packs RIP.
- Battle Pack - pure reissues.
- Less production runs of waves

I really hope they have the BMF AT-AT on tap because I need a cheer up. I am honestly saddened/depressed by a lot of this weeks news.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on December 11, 2009, 09:43 AM
I'm disappointed by the delay in the Scanning Crew variant as well, but I'm actually happy that they are cutting back on movie figures. 24 seems small, but at least it isn't the overwhelming numbers we've been getting since 2005.

I'm actually stoked about the deck outfit Han. If they could put a Taun Taun wrangler in the mix, that'd be awesome.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on December 11, 2009, 10:25 AM
Yep, there is going to be a big ole TLC drought next year after that EU Wave hits. I can't imagine having to wait until AUGUST for new figures! That sucks!

I'm wondering if the 32 TCW figures they are counting from spring to fall is the whole batch for 2010 or if it omits stuff coming out in Jan/Feb or Nov/Dec.

And again, quit crying about the Octuptarra Droid, Hasbro. I bought the first one I found and would love to add another, but Walmart seems content to let this gather dust on their shelves rather than drop the price in store. $35 is just too much.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 11, 2009, 10:30 AM
And again, quit crying about the Octuptarra Droid, Hasbro. I bought the first one I found and would love to add another, but Walmart seems content to let this gather dust on their shelves rather than drop the price in store. $35 is just too much.

Seriously, I bought three of those bitches. I only opened one. It's too big to display all three in my set up. It really is great but they went overboard with exclusives and not enough basic figures throughout the year. If you do not maintain the bread and butter of the line do not be surprised that collectors lost interest in some of these.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 11, 2009, 10:54 AM
I haven't gone through all the answers yet, but just from the ones highlighted in this thread, it does seem a little down again this round.  Like others, I sort of welcome the slow down as well, although 24 new figures for 2010 does seem a bit low (that doesn't count the EU wave correct?).  More than that though, I'm really tired of the 6 month plus breaks between waves.  I mean, sure, it is a chance to save up money (which I'm truly going to try to do this time around), but I do think it has an effect on the TLC line sales at some point as people (even collectors) may lose interest.

The other thing that bothers me is all the hints we've gotten about a "big collector year in 2010", and "you'll like what we have in store for collectors next year", and the talk of a big focus on ESB and it sounds to me that we'll see little to no OT product for the majority of the year.  Couple that with the Bespin Han getting pushed back, the new Taun Taun getting scrapped, and the BMF rumors of Slave 1 or the AT-AT getting iffier all the time...and it doesn't sound like there is that big of a deal after all.  Don't get me wrong, I'm still looking forward to the new movie line figures (even if the wait is until August), and the slow down doesn't even bother me either...but the drought gaps are getting old.  I do think we're going to see some vintage-esque packaging for that movie line though, when it launches in August.  Hopefully there are some other surprises in store as well at Toy Fair, etc.

I think Jesse is on the nose with the future "mixed waves" being a sign of the well getting dried up a little more all the time.  I guess I don't really mind, as that is how it was in the POTJ days, as long as it doesn't get too PT heavy (ROTS in particular has been heavy the past few years).  I mean, looking at our lists here even shows that they are getting made up of resculpts and "bottom of the barrel" characters more and more.  Heck, the majority of the figures I want (for the most part) anymore are OT resculpts it seems.  Overall, sounds like there should be plenty of CW product throughout the year but the "movie" stuff will be scarce for the majority...once again leading to a crazy 4th quarter (although 24 figures wouldn't be as bad, depending on exclusives).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on December 11, 2009, 12:34 PM
I have mixed feelings about this all.

While I don't mind a slow down of product as I had planned for years to reduce my budget. (And that's been working) The fact that we've basically been told there will be yet again a several month gap between new realistic product is bothersome.

The last wave of comic packs getting scrapped bothers me. I REALLY wanted those sets. I'm guessing this means the Delia Blue and Jarael sets. I really wanted those figures.

Variant missteps this year, not including accessories and such... Really Hasbro? You're going to blame the manufacturing plant for those mistakes? We as consumers don't stand for that kind of stuff which translates into less sales. Retailers will let you know about it too, and that means either a fundamental change in manufacturing from you (using a different plant or pressing on the existing one to do as you say and not just settle for whatever funk they send you), or you come right out and tell us from the onset that variant B or set A won't be made or made with certain accessories.

The FAILINGS of the variant Hoth Rebel Trooper, Imperial Scanning trooper and no accessories in the McQuarrie sets should be quite enough for you, Hasbro, to reconsider how you and you're manufacturing plant operate. Those two figures alone were much anticipated and would likely have been multiple purchases for a great many people. The McQ sets would likely have sold better had the accessories been included. Once I found out they weren't I knew I was going to bypass them for certain. Initially the sets intrigued me even though I'm typically an opener. In the case of those two McQ sets, I'd have bought them to stay boxed. But without them being displayed in their iconic poses with weapons in hand, the sets became very boring and uninteresting.  BTW, thanks for saving me money on that then.

Doing away with BaD parts if you're not going to drop the price of your figures by at least $1, will no doubt have  a big impact on collecting. Just look around here and on other collecting sites. You'll see post after post form people who bought more figures this year than previous years due to those BaD parts. In some cases buying whole waves of figures JUST for those BaD parts.

I can agree that Oola Needs remade, the Cantina Band is Meh to me. And Jabba's band is even more Meh. The bands don't scream action to me, so what we have is fine by me. Though I'm sure not everyone shares that sentiment.

Hasbro, you've done a lot of things right, and some things right by we collectors, however, this business strategy of holding off for months until the latter half of the year is what is really killing this line. Not we collectors. We would happily buy all year round if you made this stuff available to us. So please, when your first and second quarter reports come in and you see a slide in SW product, look at yourselves first for the decisions you've made and STOP blaming we collectors. In many cases we've been buying SW toys for decades. Under your specific brand name for 15 years, approx. So don't give us a hard time about loyalty to the line and your business in particular.

For the mixed waves, I'm again Meh on it. I expected it to come to this eventually. I'd rather have this now to be honest, rather than having to have an "anchor" character for each wave. Anchor to me means WEIGHING DOWN a line. In this case, the umpteenth Han, Luke, Leia, or Vader figure. I'd rather see new characters never before made or only those previously released characters in serious need of an upgrade in both sculpt, articulation, paint app and overall quality.

Well, I've said my peace (piece-whichever it is) for now. Don't get me wrong Hasbro, I love the majority of what you produce, but it's the when and how you are producing it that is causing the greatest amount of consternation among the collecting community at large.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on December 11, 2009, 12:50 PM
I think mixed cases might work better than what is happening now.  Let's say a mixed case hits the pegs, 6 new figures, six repacks.  The collectors will buy the new ones, and kids/moms/dads will buy the repacks.  The only thing is, the repacks have to me very mainstream..  Plo-Koon is not a mainsteam figure.  Keep the repacks, Luke, Vader, Han, Yoda, Darth Maul, Anikin, Obi-Wan, Chewie and a few others, and it should be fine.  Vader and Luke should ALWAYS be on the pegs...

24 new figs?  They better be great choices.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 11, 2009, 12:56 PM
24 new figs?  They better be great choices.

Damn right! I do not want to see either of those friggin useless Naboo queens. I want to see that ass faced Walrus, the Scottish Snout Evezian, Ackbar, Piett etc kind of choices. They better be some damn good choices because there is no wiggle room for weak ones.

It's so sad and feels so Indiana Jonesish.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 11, 2009, 01:53 PM
I really can't get too upset about all this cutting back stuff.  There have been super-meaty years with 80+ figures and there have been very lean years... ebb and flow.  I mean, let's take a look back at 2004.  We had a pretty decent spring with 21 new figures, but the Fall OTC line had about 40 figures... and only SEVEN were new.  That's 31 new figures in the calendar year and about 33 repacks.

I figure we'll have 6 EU figures in Spring, then 24 in the fall.  30 is low, but it isn't unheard of for Hasbro to slow things down a little bit.  Maybe they are cutting back because they need to focus more on CW to strike while the iron is hot?  Maybe they are cutting back on the movie line because they are working on a new sub-line for the SWTOR video game... or maybe they are already thinking about the new TV series if that happens in 2011/2012?

30 figures in 2010 will help my budget and will leave a little extra cash in there to finally go back and finish up my loose vintage collection or maybe dabble in some other things a bit more.  And I'm fine with that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Keonobi on December 11, 2009, 02:00 PM
I'm actually a bit excited that there are only 30 figure in the line next year.  Sure I get geeked looking at all the pictures from Toy Fare, Comicon, etc., but I still only end up buy 40-60% of them anyway.  So having a smaller number I'm excited about next year will let me go back a get a few figures from previous years that I never got and help me pay better attention to my budget (I'm very much an impulse buyer, if they have something new/cool when we're at Walmart I'm likely to pick it up, if there isn't, I'm not driving all over town to try and find it).

Its too bad LEGO doesn't do a similar discussion to Hasbro, I'd be interested to hear if they've seen a similar slow down in sales to Hasbro and if they'd attribute it/blame it on collectors, or if they've seen weakness in their product selection, or just the slow down in consumer spending generally.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 11, 2009, 04:03 PM
I really can't get too upset about all this cutting back stuff.  There have been super-meaty years with 80+ figures and there have been very lean years... ebb and flow.  I mean, let's take a look back at 2004.  We had a pretty decent spring with 21 new figures, but the Fall OTC line had about 40 figures... and only SEVEN were new.  That's 31 new figures in the calendar year and about 33 repacks.

I figure we'll have 6 EU figures in Spring, then 24 in the fall.  30 is low, but it isn't unheard of for Hasbro to slow things down a little bit.  Maybe they are cutting back because they need to focus more on CW to strike while the iron is hot?  Maybe they are cutting back on the movie line because they are working on a new sub-line for the SWTOR video game... or maybe they are already thinking about the new TV series if that happens in 2011/2012?

30 figures in 2010 will help my budget and will leave a little extra cash in there to finally go back and finish up my loose vintage collection or maybe dabble in some other things a bit more.  And I'm fine with that.

I'm pretty much here completely.  The only thing having me worried is them claiming cutting back production.  I didn't read the answer where they said that, but that bugs me slightly as right now the newer waves aren't sitting at all locally.  So it makes me wonder what they're cutting production compared to.  Compared to TPM wave?  If so, that sucks.  If it's compared to Yarna/Breha/Bail figures thought, then I see their reasoning.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 11, 2009, 07:55 PM
I think it may not be as bleak as it seems from the outset.  But with the EU wave being the final TLC RED basic figure wave until July/August, it does seem to be a bit of a downer.  The basic figure line represents the health of the line as a whole.  It's a symbol.  So when it slows down it has an affect on the overall line.  Because it's the circulation of the basic figure line that keeps bringing collectors into the stores on a regular basis.

Still, there are some significant things on the way.

-2 x Force Unleashed multipacks (TRU exclusives)

-3 x Comic 2-packs (general release)
    -Tholme & T'ra Saa
    -Blackhole & Stormtrooper
    -Exar Kun & Ulic Qel Droma

-3 x exclusive Comic 2-Packs (WalMart)

-2 x event exclusive Comic 2-packs (rumored)
    -1 @ Comic Con
    -1 @ Celebration V

That's not including any Clone Wars, vehicle releases or battle packs.


As for the gap itself?  I honestly don't know if we're going to see the EU wave before Christmas.  The EMPIRE wave is only just showing now.  If the EU wave doesn't show before Christmas, we're not likely to see it in quantity until February.  I also think we're likely to finally see the bulk of the TLC RED basic figures make it out some time over the next few months.  It's certainly been one of the tougher lines to collect in recent memory.  The break may allow some collectors to catch up or do some army building.

I'd expect the first wave of the new line look to launch some time in July.  Still, that would be about a 6 month gap in releases for the movie based figure line.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 11, 2009, 08:55 PM
Yeah, the break is the main thing that kind of stinks.  I don't know that we'll see that EU wave until the New Year, and as you said, it may be February until it shows up in any quantity.  Hopefully the fact that it has several months to hang out on the pegs, it won't be too tough for people to find.  Otherwise, to fill in that 6 month waiting period, hopefully we'll see some of these recent TLC waves released again.  It seems like they have been coming fast and furious, and some people (in some areas) haven't been able to get them all.  Sort of a "blink and you'll miss them" situation, since it is one wave on top of the next.  We haven't seen the ESB wave around here yet, and I hope we continue to see that shipping in the New Year for awhile as well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on December 12, 2009, 12:13 AM
Still, there are some significant things on the way.

-3 x Comic 2-packs (general release)
    -Tholme & T'ra Saa
    -Blackhole & Stormtrooper
    -Exar Kun & Ulic Qel Droma

I thought the Comic Packs they kept referring to were:


I think in one of their recent answers they specifically referred to the "two comic packs with the Clone Troopers" - so I think those last two are definitely coming - it's not like they're expensive sets for Hasbro since they are 100% repaints.

Don't get me wrong, I would love it if the Tholme & T'ra Saa figures make it out, it would be great if they would provide specifics on what's still coming.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 12, 2009, 10:29 AM
It seems the break will be somewhat mitigated by the fact CW figures will still be pumping through, at least until summer, when Hasbro focuses all its attention its movie licenses.  I'm personally fine with that.  It took me a while to grow on these, but the show has improved dramatically, and the figures and designs are really cool.

I think the missing variants and accessories is a sign the line is too big even for Hasbro to manage.  Communication gaps and oversights increase - and these are few in number - the larger the operation.  I won't complain too much, we get a lot and almost always get what we want.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 12, 2009, 11:05 AM
Still, there are some significant things on the way.

-3 x Comic 2-packs (general release)
    -Tholme & T'ra Saa
    -Blackhole & Stormtrooper
    -Exar Kun & Ulic Qel Droma

I thought the Comic Packs they kept referring to were:

  • Exar Kun & Ulic Qel Droma
  • Blackhole & Stormtrooper
  • Scout Trooper & Clone Trooper (Republic #83)
  • Cody's Lieutenant & Clone Trooper (Routine Valor)



Actually, it appears to be 5 x 2-packs that *MAY* make it to market.  These were all originally slated for Fall '09 release:


It's the sets like Rohlan Dyre & Jarael and Darth Nihl & Deliah Blue that seem to be cancelled for now.  One certainly hopes that Hasbro can offer these as either exclusives or perhaps split them out into basic figure waves at a later date.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ben on December 12, 2009, 11:11 AM
I'm kind of bummed about no more comic packs, since that was the only way of getting figures from the Legacy comic, but since Hasbro's done so much development on them, I'm sure we'll see them in the basic line eventually, much like I expect to happen with the 2nd versions of the Scanning Crew and Hoth Soldier. It might not be 2010, but I expect them eventually.

I think we all expected them to focus all their energy/resources on CW and for the regular line to take a backseat. I really do welcome the break. 60-odd figures every year, and almost 40 of those in the 4th quarter- I'm so tired of that.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on December 12, 2009, 11:21 AM
I think we all expected them to focus all their energy/resources on CW and for the regular line to take a backseat. I really do welcome the break. 60-odd figures every year, and almost 40 of those in the 4th quarter- I'm so tired of that.

Well - just because they indicate that those four waves will feature 24 new figures doesn't mean the count won't be more like 48 total figures for 2010.

I'm willing to bet that EVERY one of those four assortments will feature 6 new figures and 6 repacks bringing the grand total of carded movie-line figures up to 48.

So if you're a carded collector who likes to have all of the numbered figures in sequence, it's only a slight drop from this fall which was 54 figures total and out of those, 17 of them were repacks.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: DoctorPadawan on December 13, 2009, 09:40 AM
I'm okay with the vast majority of the information that came out in the Q&A (with the obvious exceptions of the Bespin Han and Scanning Crew news).  I think that Hasbro's been going at too large and quick a pace for the last couple of years and, heresy as it may be to some, I think that CW deserves to have the limelight right now, given that it is the most visible entertainment outlet.  I'm not saying that I prefer the animated CW stuff over the PT/OT realistic figures at all, because I don't, but to put out as many if not more realistic figures in a non-movie year instead of figures that are more visible literally week after week is kind of silly, IMO.

If they're doing the rumored "vintage" look for the figures that are coming out and there is good character selection (both in the brand-new figures and the recards), this could be one of the better lines of figures in recent memory, if only for the aesthetic appeal.  I'm a loose collector, but vintage style cards might push me into buying a few recarded figures to keep carded for that reason.  The real problem here will be Saga Legends, whose existence is useless with this new line approach, given Hasbro's mantra of "kids are buying animated CW and collectors are the only people buying realistic/TLC" these days.  Dump Saga Legends, go back to two SKUs, and pick figures with actual appeal across both audiences (i.e. NOT Plo Koon and Saesee Tiin) for the repacks. 

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Daigo-Bah on December 13, 2009, 11:22 AM
As much as I've loved the Q and A sessions both for their informative value and Hasbro's willingness to communicate with us, I also regret the general doom and gloom answers and their insistence on catering to the supposed kids overwhelmingly compared to the older collectors.  Good character selection and reasonable prices keep the movie lines going, not being able to sell the other line so that this one survives.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: evenflow on December 13, 2009, 11:09 PM
Yeah they are all doom and gloom. It sucks abou tthe scanning crew member, the loss of future EU figures, no more BAD, and maybe not even getting those comic pack figures soemwhere else. I have stopped buying the clone wars figures and just the legacy stuff yet they dont seem to think that the saga legends are a problem.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 13, 2009, 11:39 PM
I think the upcoming mixed waves will present *SOME* hope for EU figures.  I think it may prove easier for Hasbro to mix in one EU figure into a wave of movie based figures rather than having them try to sell retailers on an entirely EU based wave or exclusive comic packs.

It also sounds like Hasbro is trying to get EU back in the mix through the video game angle.  The Force Unleashed wave did pretty well, as did KOTOR based figures like Darth Revan and Darth Malak.  And they mentioned in this last session that video games still present some promise for them in the EU realm.  Just look at the upcoming Force Unleashed battle packs that are set to launch in the spring.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 13, 2009, 11:57 PM
The Force Unleashed wave did pretty well, as did KOTOR based figures like Darth Revan and Darth Malak.  And they mentioned in this last session that video games still present some promise for them in the EU realm. 

With TFU2 getting announced this week for late 2010 and lots of hype out there for the upcoming SWTOR video game, I'm sure both of those are being looked at for figures for 2011 and the mixed waves (if not box sets exclusives before that). 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 14, 2009, 12:06 AM
That was definitely something that came to mind for me.  What I'm wondering?  How closely will Hasbro be able to tie-in to that TFU 2 release?  They had the original TFU figures on display at Toy Fair in February 2007, IIRC.  The figures eventually came out in the spring of 2008, but the game was delayed until at least fall 2008.  One would certainly think that the lead time is there for Hasbro to produce a wave of figures or a TFU2 battle pack.  But video games are notorious for missing their release dates.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on December 14, 2009, 02:01 PM
The Force Unleashed wave did pretty well, as did KOTOR based figures like Darth Revan and Darth Malak.  And they mentioned in this last session that video games still present some promise for them in the EU realm. 

With TFU2 getting announced this week for late 2010 and lots of hype out there for the upcoming SWTOR video game, I'm sure both of those are being looked at for figures for 2011 and the mixed waves (if not box sets exclusives before that). 

Speaking of TFU2, wth was that creature that totally pwnd the Rancor? Cripes that thing was friggin' HUGE! Now I want THAT for a toy Hasbro! lol (no seriously I do!)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on December 14, 2009, 02:08 PM
The Force Unleashed wave did pretty well, as did KOTOR based figures like Darth Revan and Darth Malak.  And they mentioned in this last session that video games still present some promise for them in the EU realm. 

With TFU2 getting announced this week for late 2010 and lots of hype out there for the upcoming SWTOR video game, I'm sure both of those are being looked at for figures for 2011 and the mixed waves (if not box sets exclusives before that). 

Speaking of TFU2, wth was that creature that totally pwnd the Rancor? Cripes that thing was friggin' HUGE! Now I want THAT for a toy Hasbro! lol (no seriously I do!)

It'd probably do as well as that TFU Rancor did.  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 21, 2009, 09:08 PM
A new round of Q&A...

-Jedi Robes and unlit hilt accessories rock...  will we see them more?

-The actual future of the EU and Collecting?

-Republic Commando updates and improvements?

Click here to read the answers! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1261447457,39454,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 22, 2009, 12:28 PM
One thing I wondered when reading this round of Q and A's again, and noticing (again) all of the mentions of stuff "coming Fall 2010"....not that this is unusual (the big break), as we've been seeing it a lot lately - but there seems to be a lot of seperation on the way between CW and TLC (or whatever it is to be called), as well as rumors of a "vintage look" to the line.  Also, we seem to be seeing more mainline OT stuff (Cloud Car and Snowspeeder are already confirmed) than we usually do, with a new Jabba possible next holiday season, as well as other "surprises".  I wonder, and I have no facts to base this on at all, if we might possibly be seeing a blu ray release of the Saga next Fall/Christmas time.  It could coincide with the big "new" line launch in the Fall, I think Celebration V is in August, and it (the Saga on blu ray) is long overdue anyways.  Anyways, just a guess, and we could continue to wait for all I know - but it would be nice.

Also, as a side note, I'm still wondering what sort of "surprises" we'll have in store for next year.  Hasbro keeps mentioning (and again this week) how there will be a nice focus on ESB for the anniversary - but so far we know there will only be one wave of figures for that movie, and aside from the two new vehicles that are now confirmed (Cloud Car/Snowspeeder), I'm wondering what else could be on the way.  The Taun Taun was supposedly tabled, and recent Slave 1/AT-AT rumors have cooled as well.  Should be an interesting Toy Fair.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on December 22, 2009, 04:24 PM
I'm wondering about the action figures next year and the separation you mention.  The answer to Jedi News this week is a little cryptic on that topic, but does confirm that the new blue, cloudy, Captain Rex box art is going to be across most of the lines starting next Fall.  Why they do say that the "exact" TLC replacement line look will debut at Toy Fair, I have to wonder if they'll make a radical change to just that one line when the Captain Rex look sounds as if it's going everywhere else.

Even the Lego OT sets have that deco in the leaked photos from last week.

I'm wondering if this admission to Jedi News in any way contradicts what Hasbro said earlier in the year that they were looking at ways to better differentiate the Legacy figs from the CW and Legends (since Legends is intended to back the CW line more than Legacy).  Would it be possible that Hasbro would throw the new packaging we've seen on everything but the Legacy line and go with a vintage type card just for one assortment?  We should know in about 2 months.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on December 24, 2009, 08:40 AM
It sounds like they are going to make more recognizeable EU figures like Guri.  I would be all for that.  While they are it they can add Joruus C'Baoth.  I am sure there are people that don't know who either is but at least both are main characters in their respected stories. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on December 24, 2009, 09:36 AM
I hope the carded figure differences are indeed going to be drastic like Hasbro indicated/promised in a previous Q&A.

It still isn't going to make a difference when clerks at most of the box stores are stocking the figures, but at places like Target and TRU where they WILL take a inventory barcode and investigate whether they have any more, it will make things easier for us collectors who take a few minutes to "organize" the pegs and clearly show that they could use a peg refill for either line.

I'm holding out hope that even the Legends line will be a third different cardback style - though with all of the repacks Hasbro keeps hinting at for the Legacy line, I'm shocked they still remain comitted to having a third line in play at all...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on January 22, 2010, 02:36 PM
A quick update for the JD faithful -

Good News:
- The Hasbro Q&A program returns for 2010 with 12 sessions planned for the year (about 1 per month, give or take some weeks here and there for holidays and conventions).

Bad News:
- For 2010, sites will be limited to just two questions per session.  :(

Look for Q&A sessions to start appearing again the week of Feb 1st!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on January 22, 2010, 05:38 PM
Hasbro's as tired of hearing the same questions repeated over and over as we are, perhaps?  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on January 22, 2010, 06:20 PM
It's not like we are going to ask for the ICMG again. >:D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on January 24, 2010, 10:21 PM
No.  Now were gonna start demanding a carded Dr. Ezavan!  I think he may be the character from the OT that has the most lines, but no carded, recent figure, acceptable figure.  Except maybe "Mr. Holding Her is Dangerous."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on January 24, 2010, 11:30 PM
He's a good choice, but I'd point to Wedge above either of them as far as not getting a carded figure and having a butt-ton of lines.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on January 25, 2010, 09:57 AM
Let's hope Wedge is one of the vintage figures later this year - it would be perfect.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on January 25, 2010, 11:21 AM
Man...I don't know if I can stomach another orange suited human.  I want an ugly quasi-human with and open shirt and a vest.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on January 25, 2010, 11:27 AM
agreed.  While I do feel for the MOC collectors wanting Wedge to add to their collection, since I am an opener I don't care.  I got my Wedge in the X-Wing pack, but since I am newer modern collector I don't have a Dr. Ezavan.  I could back track and get him - but I have a gut feeling a much better one is on the horizon.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jedi_master_sal on January 25, 2010, 01:14 PM
Yeah, I have to agree with the two just above my post.

I'm not really feeling another Wedge. We already have that figure in various modes. Okay so we didn't really need the dinner party jacket Wedge and the buff ones are outdated.
Still, there are so many characters that haven't been done yet or others that need a serious upgrade.

I'd agree with Evazan needing to be upgraded first before Wedge. I'd rather see other pilots before Wedge again.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on January 26, 2010, 01:24 AM
I would like a carded Wedge myself.  Although it can be either the Snowspeeder or X-Wing version.  I never ended up buying the new X-Wing with him last year.  Yeah, I would definately like to get a new Dr Evazan and Ponda Baba and Rebel Fleet Trooper.  There is room for Wedge in my opinion though. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on January 26, 2010, 10:34 AM
I'd prefer any version of him, so long as we get one.  I think it would be silly for him to miss the Vintage cut, when he's easily one of the top 5 figures us old schoolers always wanted to see on one of those cards.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on January 26, 2010, 11:30 AM
For me it would definitely have to be these three I'd want to see on the Vintage-style cardback: Tarkin, Wedge and Evazan.

As a kid I was always puzzled that we never got those characters as action figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on January 26, 2010, 12:22 PM
Yeah, I'd like to see those as well.  There's a number of OT figures that would be cool to see on the vintage-style cardbacks.  Stormtrooper Han (even though he's been re-released a lot lately), Wedge, Tarkin, Evazan, and maybe even things like the Sandtrooper, an all-new Rebel Fleet Trooper, etc.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on January 28, 2010, 12:18 AM
Yeah, I forgot about Tarkin.  Hell I would even take a Cantina Band member on a vintage cardback.  They will probably opt for ROTJ Vader with Sebastian Shaw head though since it's another Vader figure.  I could go on and on. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 3, 2010, 08:03 PM
A new round of Q&A is posted...

-Why not re-use good headsculpts instead of going with a new likeness on new figures?

-Is the Jedi Mickey and astromech the upcoming Star Tours exclusive hinted at earlier?

Click here and check out the answers! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1265233736,27367,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on February 3, 2010, 08:14 PM
That head answer is sort of lame and sort of indicative of "costing" problems.  Why wouldn't you standardize on neck peg size across the board so you can save money on sculpting.  I get the whole sourcing thing, I get the whole different factory thing.  But, being an engineer, why keep reinventing the wheel every single time.  That gets damn expensive.

You just nailed the almost perfect likeness of Mark Hamill and you want to have someone resculpt and recast another head?  Why not do like Marvel and have some standard bucks in the arsenal? 

The flip side is that I appreciate and like the uniqueness they dedicate to each figure, I'd just think about doing it differently
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 3, 2010, 08:16 PM
Yeah, I thought GIJ's were pretty standardized, so I'm not sure why there's an issue with Star Wars...  Seems odd to me too.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JesseVader08 on February 3, 2010, 08:48 PM
Why wouldn't you standardize on neck peg size across the board so you can save money on sculpting.  I get the whole sourcing thing, I get the whole different factory thing.  But, being an engineer, why keep reinventing the wheel every single time.  That gets damn expensive.

I think we've all been wondering this for a long time, so you've summarized it perfectly Scott.  WHY don't they have a standard peg size?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 3, 2010, 09:24 PM
Why wouldn't you standardize on neck peg size across the board so you can save money on sculpting.  I get the whole sourcing thing, I get the whole different factory thing.  But, being an engineer, why keep reinventing the wheel every single time.  That gets damn expensive.

I think we've all been wondering this for a long time, so you've summarized it perfectly Scott.  WHY don't they have a standard peg size?

This is actually somewhat difficult to achieve given the different proportions between characters. With Joe they have a few different body types (All Human with more standardized chassis) and head sizes so there is more cross compatibility but not it's not 100%. With Troopers this should be easier to achieve. With Aliens it's much more difficult given the funky styles. Hasbro screwed up a lot but this is one issue I cannot fault them for. It's very restrictive and would affect overall sculpts. If they can limit the sizes down to 3-4 Human sizes that would be great but I think everyone is taking this issue too personally. As a designer I understand why this would be a challenge.

a Dremmel and sometimes a little Greenstuff is all you need to have heads fit each other. I am more concerned about the future of the movie than swapping heads. 2010 will be a make or break year for this lines future.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on February 4, 2010, 11:18 AM
I agree that is difficult for aliens and such based on scale head size etc...but not for humans.  Human heads are human heads.  ANH Luke is ANH Luke (except for Trash Compactor)...ANH Han is ANH Han...Lando is Lando etc.  It seriously can't be that hard to standardize on the neck peg for humans to make sure you don't have to waste tooling time and resources on a perfected head.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 4, 2010, 11:56 AM
I do not disagree on the humans overall, they should be able to get those to 3-4 sizes. Believe me if they could standardize this I am all for it but it's more involved than one thinks. Troopers without removable helmets on other hand are another story. That should be easy for them to do.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on February 4, 2010, 01:10 PM
best news out of the QnA, for me atleast, is that a Chukha-Trok sculpt has been made.  Of course though Hasbro has to dish out the bad now a days and go on to say  "that pack has been put by the wayside".

I guess I can still maybe hope for a 2012 release... ::)

edit:  odd that Hasbro didn't mention anything about Kaink.  I asked about all the Ewoks from the Ewok movies a few months back at RS.com and Hasbro said that they were all on the short list.  Perhaps in their neglect to comment on her there could be the possibility she is comming?  I do find that unlikely with the Vintage line just starting - I would not bet against Logray or Wicket for any Ewok slots.

double edit:  Hasbro also mentions a "pack".  So now I gotta wonder, are we talking 2-pack (not likely on a vintage card imo) or an Ewok themed battle pack?...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on February 4, 2010, 01:13 PM
I was just reading through some of the Q and A's, and something I noticed (maybe a minor note) is that they are planning on re-releasing the Landspeeder, likely in 2011.  I know it isn't major news or anything, and most of us probably already have it - but I always thought that was a really nicely done vehicle, and I'm glad it will be making it out there again in some way.  I also noticed that in the cardback answer at Han's Hideout Hasbro mentioned that the "vintage line look" would be lasting at least two years - good to hear!  I'd just as soon see the regular "movie" line stick with that look anyways, so I'm glad they are thinking somewhat long term.  I just hope the "two years" comment doesn't mean "we'll see if there is still a market for movie figures after two years" :).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 22, 2010, 07:49 PM
Another round of questions with Hasbro came in today...

-What's your plan to recapture that collector-targeted market you feel was lost during the Legacy run?

-What's the deal with Bespin Luke getting a resculpt so soon?

The answers await you in our latest Hasbro Q&A Session (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1266885854,50445,)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on February 22, 2010, 09:35 PM
we'll soon have new collectors coming into the fold to take their place

Everything is proceeding as I have foreseen  (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sw014.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)  (Hasbro)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 22, 2010, 09:40 PM
Yeah that was a really interesting answer I thought...

It makes one wonder how they'll change the landscape of the hobby going forward.  The Vintage stuff clearly isn't aimed at the young adult collectors getting into now that were into the PT...  It's a weird thing they've got to deal with.  I also wonder how "devoted" the people who were young when the PT came out are going to be.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on February 22, 2010, 09:56 PM
The Q&A at Han's Hideout offers up another confirmation that Bom Vimdin, Dr. Evazan, and Ponda Baba (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2010/02/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-23.html) are all still coming in 2011.

Three quality choices if you ask me.  I've been wanting Bom forever and Evazan and Ponda are way in need of resculpts.  Very glad to hear they are still on track for 2011.  Also glad to see updates to Snaggletooth, Wuher, and Bith are likely for 2012/2013. :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 22, 2010, 09:59 PM
Yeah for sure...  Bom's been my most wanted alien for a little while now (they got to everything else I was really after), and Evazan and Ponda were my next wants from the Cantina.  That's 3 quality choices knocked out.  I seriously won't know what I want from there then aside from Garrouf Lafoe and Yerka Migg...  Humans get screwed so badly when it comes to Cantina choices.

Jabba's SE goons are my next choices but they're really not Cantina guys.

I'm truly moving into where humans are my precedence right now though, especiall Garrouf.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on February 22, 2010, 10:21 PM
Good to hear about them.  Bom is really the last major alien I want.  Major being a relative term here.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on February 23, 2010, 12:18 AM
I'm with Darby, a long time ago (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=3900.msg49676#msg49676), I made a list of major Cantina Aliens...they have now made them all!

The minor ones still haven't been made...BTW...stan strikes again...good call buddy!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darth Broem on February 23, 2010, 12:20 AM
Finally Bom Vimdin!!! Of course Evazan and Ponda are way overdue.  I am looking forward to the vintage cards to! Unfortunately we have to wait another year and a half for them  :'(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: jono on February 23, 2010, 06:45 AM
Good news and bad news. I was expecting these to show as the first wave of 2011, not some undetermined time in the autumn/winter!

Are we likely to get any new Cantina Aliens in the early ANH wave?

If so i guess Bannis Keeg and a minor re tool for geedo or new Hammerhead. Faling that- and considering how popular Rum Sleg has been- i'd guess Dans Borin. Hasbro can basicaly "millitarize" his outfit to suit the market.

Whatever the outcome, i would like to know!

I wonder if Stan could shed any light?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on February 23, 2010, 12:07 PM
I thought Hasbro's answer to the recent Q&A regarding their strategy about how to bring collectors back in was their best response on the state of the hobby in a long, long time.  They actually seem to understand in that statement the views of a lot of the collecting community.  That's great to see and I hope they adapt well.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on February 23, 2010, 12:08 PM
Yeah that was a really interesting answer I thought...

It makes one wonder how they'll change the landscape of the hobby going forward.  The Vintage stuff clearly isn't aimed at the young adult collectors getting into now that were into the PT...  It's a weird thing they've got to deal with.  I also wonder how "devoted" the people who were young when the PT came out are going to be.

I enjoyed reading Hasbro's answer to that question as well.  It is somewhat unusual to see them go into that much detail of their thinking/inner workings with the line, and it was interesting to read.

I think we've discussed it before on the forums, but I really wonder how much the "prequel" age collectors truly stick with the hobby.  I'm not saying that prequels don't have their fans, heck most of us like at least some of it to all of it, but it seems like Hasbro talks about that younger generation a lot now (and not the kiddos with CW) that are becoming "collectors" and taking the place of people our age who have left the hobby or are cutting back.  I'm just not sure that this generation has the attachment and/or nostalgia for these toy lines (or even movies) they way we did/do.  The world is so different now with video games for younger audiences, the "flavor of the month" approach for movies and toy lines, and the advent of all the electronics that occupy attention much younger (phones, iPods, etc).  I just don't know that there are all that many "new" collectors coming into the hobby all the time, at least ones that are sticking with it for 30 years like many of our age bracket.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on February 23, 2010, 12:11 PM
That's awesome news about Evazan, Ponda and Bom! Great additions to the cantina collection. I'm sure they could put in Sai'torr Kal Fas since it's just a repaint of Hrchek (with corrected eyes).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on February 23, 2010, 02:19 PM
I really wonder how much the "prequel" age collectors truly stick with the hobby....
...I'm just not sure that this generation has the attachment and/or nostalgia for these toy lines (or even movies) they way we did/do.

I say we have to wait and see on all those prequel kids.

After all, how many of us stuck with Star Wars the whole time (1979-2010)?  How many (like myself) left Star Wars in High School in the late 80s, but came back in the mid-90s when they had more disposable income and nostalgia for the past kicked in?

I don't think you can make any statements about the "prequel generation" until they've had time to incubate their nostalgia properly.  Let them dump Star Wars in Middle/High School and come back to it in their mid20s like so many of today's collectors got to do.

I just think they need to get some mileage on them before they will truely appreciate anything they had as kids... I'm guessing sometime in the 2015/2016 you'll see demand for that Ep1 junk pick up as those new adults decide to recapture their youth and rebuy their "vintage" figures.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on February 23, 2010, 05:58 PM
Excellent points Jeff, it will have to be more of a wait and see thing with that generation.  I too largely "left" Star Wars in high school and the beginning of college.  I still watched the movies (and didn't make it a secret that they were my favorites), but aside from checking out my brothers POTF2 stuff (he's 12 years younger than me, so right in that "prequel generation") and taking a look at the Thrawn trilogy, there wasn't much else in the way of Star Wars for me.  I actually didn't start collecting the POTF2 stuff until later in that line, and haven't looked back since.

I'll be curious to see if the younger generation has the same "attachment" to these sorts of things the way we do/did.  I mean, there will of course be exceptions to every rule, but I'm not sure if things like movies, tv shows, and toys are quite as iconic to kids now (or a short while ago) as they were to us.  There used to be a lot less out there to get our attention, and I think things stuck with us more because of that.  I hope I'm wrong though, because I'd love to see a new generation of collectors.  I look at our nephews (ages 10 and 8), and they are only familiar with the OT at all due to my wife and I - and they seem to love the prequel trilogy and CW as their "Star Wars" just fine.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on February 23, 2010, 06:00 PM
"Bringing back collectors" also involves "bringing in collectors."  New blood isn't going to want to start with any of the 2009 Legacy waves.  The Vintage wave *seems* to start off with an OK mix but I do worry that once the MOC fans get their fill that we're going to see a whole mess of 4-LOM on the pegs.

I wouldn't count on the prequel kids.  Plus this is like a double- or triple-dip on the nostalgia packaging... it'll be interesting to see how it does.  I think you can sell Vintagey Vaders for a while but I can't imagine it's going to work as well for 4-LOM.  Although I would love to see Willrow on a Vintage card, I must say.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Dan on February 23, 2010, 06:15 PM
Although I would love to see Willrow on a Vintage card, I must say.

Now you're just sucking up to Scotty-  ;)

what about Boshek?

Those two figures may end up being the legacy of our collecting community, along with Lt Renz busts...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on February 24, 2010, 04:11 PM
Although I would love to see Willrow on a Vintage card, I must say.

Now you're just sucking up to Scotty-  ;)

what about Boshek?

Those two figures may end up being the legacy of our collecting community, along with Lt Renz busts...

Ah, the Lt.Renz Busts....you better hurry I hear there are only 4,000 units left and they are taking up a lot of space.....

I may order one out of pity just to own one of the greatest collectible dogs of all time!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on February 25, 2010, 08:43 AM
Ah, the Lt.Renz Busts....you better hurry I hear there are only 4,000 units left and they are taking up a lot of space.....

I may order one out of pity just to own one of the greatest collectible dogs of all time!

"You rebel scum!"

 ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on February 26, 2010, 12:11 PM
I may order one out of pity just to own one of the greatest collectible dogs of all time!

I Actually think it's a really nice piece... I like the bust and was glad to buy one.  I didn't need the electronics or the signed card and would have loved to save $20 though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 17, 2010, 09:41 PM
Another month, another Q&A session with Hasbro! :)

1) What ranking do Human Jabba/Cantina goons get on your depth charts, and can we expect some?

2) Battledroids are cool, but getting them to stand seems like a real chore.  Can we expect that to improve?

The answers to these and...  well, to these anyway, are up!  So clicky and check them out! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1268876354,54287,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 17, 2010, 09:44 PM
I feel the answer to #2 is "fair".  I mean at least a stand will help.

I'm sort of curious though, as the Security Battledroid really doesn't have thicker legs than the new Battledroid sculpt.  I'm looking at them both, and mine don't look thicker to me.  Maybe I'm missing something.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on March 17, 2010, 11:38 PM
I don't think they mean wider = thicker, I think they mean that the stance on the Security Battle Droid is wider.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 17, 2010, 11:45 PM
Ah ok...  That's still confusing though, as the new droid can be posed wider, it's the plastic that's the problem.   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on March 18, 2010, 01:07 AM
Ah ok...  That's still confusing though, as the new droid can be posed wider, it's the plastic that's the problem.   :-\

IIRC they've said a few times that if they sculpt them accurately (thin like they are) they have to use a soft plastic because thin pieces could turn into sharp objects if they snapped... they could use better plastic, but they'd have to make them thick and ugly looking.

Am I remembering that right?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 18, 2010, 02:11 AM
That's not really true though...  Plastic used is a PVC-type on limbs, so it can't really "snap" at all because that's pliable plastic (thus the "boil & pop).

Not to mention again that the Security Droid's legs are thin, and sturdy.  Hell, the Boomer Damage Droid's legs are thin and sturdy by comparison.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Blaster under the pillow on March 18, 2010, 06:30 AM
I'm a little disappointed in their answer to the Battle droid question. If they could make one that could stand unaided, I'd buy a heap of them, but I'm just not that keen on displaying figures with stands, unless they're the environmental kind that we got around the time of Revenge.

If they can't make the legs out of a stronger plastic, could they make the rest of the droid and it's blaster out of a weaker type, so that they could at least take the weight?

Great news as far as the skiff guards go though...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 18, 2010, 03:59 PM
To further the debate...

I got Rohm Mohc and IG-97 yesterday, and IG-97 uses the new Battledroid sculpt aside from the head.

He's a sturdier plastic.  He stands fine on his own.  ???  Seriously, it just adds to the confusion here.

I'm beginning to think battledroids are one of those things that, in all seriousness, you'd have to sit down with Hasbro and physically show them a couple different examples of what you're talking about so they saw the differences because they seem confused on the topic.

If future droids are as sturdy as IG-97's limbs are, I'm fine with this figure then.  Even without the retooled left arm.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on March 18, 2010, 06:47 PM
Sad that Hasbro feels the Hoth Rebels (and Officers) that we currently have are sufficient to satisfy the "updated from vintage" requirement.  And then to make matters worse, they think they would update the Commander before they did an Echo Base trooper...

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: EpicGon on March 18, 2010, 07:03 PM
more humans from Ot yerka, Wuher, Evazan, perhaps hoth troopers, like the deck officer who talk to Han Solo in esb.
The jabba goons from a new hope special edition are a nice project too. I think Hasbro will be releasing them in separate waves, like as in the case of the imperial dignitaries, which colectors wanted to see in this vintage line.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 19, 2010, 02:24 AM
Sad that Hasbro feels the Hoth Rebels (and Officers) that we currently have are sufficient to satisfy the "updated from vintage" requirement.  And then to make matters worse, they think they would update the Commander before they did an Echo Base trooper...

I missed this one Paul, where's it from?  N/M, I see it now...  That is odd.

Disappointing for sure, that the Echo Base Trooper or others may be considered "updated" already, but that doesn't mean they won't happen still...  They maybe look at the Echo Base Trooper as a wholely separate figure now.

I wouldn't mind having the "Commander" from the vintage line, but he's more a head variant on the new body than a "new" figure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 8, 2010, 04:03 PM
Another round of Q&A's posted...

-Say it ain't so that the Brown Vested Hoth Rebel (Vintage) is off the table guys!

-Exactly how awesome would Senate Duel Palpatine be?

You can read the answers to these questions, Right Here (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1270756833,58423,)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on April 8, 2010, 05:02 PM
You never know they may sneak him in the upcoming Battlepack. I cannot see this Battle pack just having one trooper in it......
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 8, 2010, 09:45 PM
It looks like Hasbro has revealed what figures will be in the first couple assortments of Saga Legends after the packaging change (courtesy of JTA (http://www.jeditemplearchives.com/content/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=6102/#details):

Wave 1
     SL01 Bossk
     SL02 IG-88
     SL03 Zuckuss
     SL04 Greedo
     SL05 Jango Fett
     SL06 Darth Vader
     SL07 Leia Boush
     SL08 Darth Maul
     SL09 Grievous
     SL10 Clone Trooper Ep II
     SL11 Anakin- Darth Vader
     SL12 Obi-Wan
 
Wave 2
     SL13 Yoda
     SL14 R2D2
     SL15 Shock Trooper
     SL16 Clone Trooper Ep III
     SL17 C3PO
     SL18 Chewbacca
     SL19 501st Trooper
     SL20 Battle Droid 2 pack
     SL21 Luke Snow Speeder
     SL22 Han Solo Hoth
     SL23 Snowtrooper

Quite a few of the same choices, but some new ones as well.  Overall, I think it is a little better selection than we've been seeing lately in this line.  I'm particularly happy to see re-releases of Bossk, 4-LOM, and IG-88 as I sort of wanted to get some extras of the previous versions.  Plus, I think it is a good idea to get those bounty hunters out there again.  I also like seeing army builders like the Snowtrooper, 501st, and other clones as those always seem to sell.  I really hope the Chewie is the EB version, or even the VOTC one, as that is a good figure to have out every so often as well.  Kind of happy to see the Luke Snowspeeder get another release, as well as Hoth Han.  The lineup seems to be pretty ESB/ROTS heavy overall.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on April 8, 2010, 11:01 PM
I hope that Chewbacca is the Tin version without the snow deco. I know it's a long shot but I would love to see him since that mold is so ESB especially for the Bespin dinner scene. That would be an easy way to serve up some soft newness.

No Sae See on the list so that's a definite improvement!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 9, 2010, 12:04 AM
"As it's drawn up now, the 2011 Bespin Han would be all-new." (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2010/04/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-25.html)

Hooray! I'm really looking forward to that one on the vintage cards and I must admit much joy in the fact that it won't just be another iteration of the VOTC sculpt. :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on April 9, 2010, 02:32 AM
I was hoping that Saga Legends line would replace one of the ROTS Clone Troopers with the Utapau version since we just got a new Commander Cody and he'll be packed again later this year.  That's one trooper I'd add a few more of but I don't think I bought more than one SL 501st Clone and none of the Shock Troopers.

Also, there seemed to be an undercurrent of "ifs" in this week's Q&A.  "If" the vintage line lasts long enough, "if" we have time...  It's like, after they came right out and said the line would run "at least" two years, now they're hedging their bets just in case the line doesn't take off and they have to bag it early.

I think they're also hearing some push back on just what the Vintage Collection line is going to be and now maybe they're just a bit worried?  They came out of the gate talking about how this was going to be the best line yet, collectors were going to jump back in, etc...and then they released more character info for the first couple of waves and there's not a single new character in there.  Then last Q&A they came back and basically said that the line was going to be pretty much all character re-issues; some new outfits, some updated sculpts, but less with the new and more with the new-ish.

I know some people that were dreaming of rainbows and unicorns for the TVC line are now realizing it's going to be more about summer afternoon sprinkler systems and Krazy glued goat horns on fido.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 9, 2010, 02:41 AM
That painted a....

...very weird picture.  :P

Yeah I think it is indeed starting to crash with some about the Vintage Collection getting a weird reaction.  For me, I think a lot of figures need resculpted.  I'm a big resculpt whore...  But for many it's all about the new.  For me, I'm probably less interested in the new (though I love new, don't get me wrong) than I am about getting something redone that I feel is inadequate...  Rebel army builders, some Imperials, some older secondary characters (Tarkin, etc.) that need upgraded, and so on.

So for me, Dengar's great.

For others...  not so much.

I wasn't exactly the audience they lost though, considering I'm still here and all.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on April 9, 2010, 10:41 AM
I'm all about the new also.  In fact, I can do with out many resculpts, but I buy any newly sculpted figure.  Figures like this years At-At driver are totally hum-drum for me.  Yawn.  However, new Cantine patrons, or even the upcoming Han Echo Base I totally love.

I think that there's a lot of undone figures out there that could be aggressive, Hasbro just needs to be creative.  And I think that there's some very cool repaints, and rereleases, such as Amanaman that could make the line exciting.

I'm not dissapointed with the new line, but I'm not feeling the love yet...maybe when we see some "new" figures on classic cards.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 9, 2010, 11:13 AM
I was hoping that Saga Legends line would replace one of the ROTS Clone Troopers with the Utapau version since we just got a new Commander Cody and he'll be packed again later this year.  That's one trooper I'd add a few more of but I don't think I bought more than one SL 501st Clone and none of the Shock Troopers.

Well, the rumor mill was saying at one point that the Ep3 Clone in the Vintage RotS wave will be the Utapau colors to go with Cody. 

If that rumor pans out, it would be nice since it would be dumb to have a Vintage carded plain Ep3 Clone on the pegs at the same time as a Legends one (especially if the Legends one is $1 cheaper).  Guess we wait and see if that rumor pans out...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 9, 2010, 11:30 AM
"As it's drawn up now, the 2011 Bespin Han would be all-new." (http://hanshideout.blogspot.com/2010/04/hasbro-star-wars-q-session-25.html)

Hooray! I'm really looking forward to that one on the vintage cards and I must admit much joy in the fact that it won't just be another iteration of the VOTC sculpt. :)

That is great news.  Honestly, I think a new Bespin Han Solo is my most anticipated figure at this ponit.  I really liked the POTJ one, and in some ways it still holds up pretty well, but an all-new "ultimate" Bespin Han would be most welcome.  The favorite "look" of my favorite character, I hope it doesn't disappoint.

I also hope that rumor pans out of the ROTS clone being the Utapau version.  That is actually one version of the clonetrooper that I could use more of too, and it hasn't been all that available for the most part for awhile now.

As far as the Vintage Collection goes, I guess I'm still pretty excited.  I can see why people are wanting more "brand new, never before seen" figures, and I'm all for those too - but like Jesse, I enjoy a good resculpt here and there as well.  Heck, looking at a lot of the "Top 10" lists, particularly for the OT, it is starting to fill up with more resculpts all the time.  Many (or most) of the figures released prior to the ROTS line are looking dated in some ways at this point, so I don't mind getting upgrades that make sense.  I'm wondering if some of Hasbro's answers are indicating that if Vintage isn't the "smash hit" that they envisioned, we might be seeing even more of a focus shifted to CW only after the next couple of years.  If they did the line right, they could really finish out much of what the majority wants from the movie lines in a couple years though.  There will always be figures missing I'm sure, but we are starting to flesh out each of the movies pretty well at this point.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on April 9, 2010, 11:47 AM
Coincidentally, I asked about the Utapau clone this week as a follow up to our original QnA (http://www.yakfaceforums.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=125&t=5080) back in Dec. 09. Hopefully we'll get something definitive for next session as the Vintage/GH and SL lists revealed this week clouded the matter some.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 9, 2010, 03:10 PM
It looks like in the Q and A at Dewback Patrol, Hasbro confirms that a new Endor Rebel Soldier is on the way in Fall of 2010...so I would guess that would be part of the ROTJ wave.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on April 9, 2010, 03:19 PM
It looks like in the Q and A at Dewback Patrol, Hasbro confirms that a new Endor Rebel Soldier is on the way in Fall of 2010...so I would guess that would be part of the ROTJ wave.

It's great to hear this figure gets a modern upgrade. I hope the bald beardo head from the 30th Tin version fits this one.

Another POTF2 that can fianally be retired! I am lovin like McDonalds! Like Jesse, I am all about the resculpts right now for some of the key oldies from the 90's a little more than obscure newbies. Do not get me wrong I love the obscure guys but if the trend continues downward with the line and this is truly the waning days of the line (I hope not) I want upgrades to some of the most iconic characters before it's done.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 9, 2010, 03:52 PM
Good news on the Endor Rebel.  Even the 2006 Endor Troops were kind of lame.  Probably because the basis for that figure came out in 2002.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on April 9, 2010, 06:06 PM
Maybe I am confused, I thought this was the all green camo one. Did I read that wrong?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 9, 2010, 06:50 PM
We asked about getting the "Vintage" look of the figure done in a Q&A last year i believe, as well as the Sergeant in the trench coat.  Basically they've done a guy in all green camo smock and pants, and the guys in the vests and camo pants, but that's been about it.

The Vintage figure has the camo smock on, but it's opened, and the Sergeant's rockin' a greener camo Han coat, more or less.  I think this planned figure is going to wind up being more like the vintage figure, but I'm hopeful for the Sergeant at some point.

Hasbro was pretty receptive when we asked about those two the last time around and it seems at least one of them is pretty likely...  Unless they just upgrade one of the older looks, which I don't think I'd mind that either.  They are all in need of upgrading.  It looks like Vintage could give us some good Rebel Army BUilder love according to this and another slated for 2011.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 27, 2010, 02:59 PM
The most recent sessions are starting to be posted.  Possible new Clone Wars Slave I?  It could be.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 27, 2010, 03:07 PM
Another week and another round of Q&A... 

-So Wilrow's out now for some time.  How did he do?

-The Arena 2-Packs at Target were pretty nice that last time around...  Can we expect more?

Read all the details on those Right Here (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1272395064,9818,), and join in the Q&A chatter for this session.  I'm hoping everything holds, because I liked those sets. :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 28, 2010, 03:19 AM
Seems like a number of sites didn't post their Q&A's, or there just wasn't much to talk about maybe...  I've not seen much rumbling except the coolness of things like the Magna Guard, the Slave-1 talk and Geonosis 2-packs still getting another go...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 28, 2010, 03:33 PM
This is a snippit from www.galactichunter.com 's Q&A...

Quote
She would be a good candidate if we ever did another Tantive IV Battle Pack, although fans would have our heads if we did not upgrade the Rebel Fleet Troopers first.

Now, I'm not sayin' anything but "I hear things...  I hear things...", about this. ;)

Adam May made an interesting point about "Fleet Troopers" being plural too...  A guy can hope right?   :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 28, 2010, 06:06 PM
Seems like a number of sites didn't post their Q&A's, or there just wasn't much to talk about maybe...  I've not seen much rumbling except the coolness of things like the Magna Guard, the Slave-1 talk and Geonosis 2-packs still getting another go...

A number of sites asked for a sneak peek at the AT-AT in the TRU exclusive vintage packaging.  And all of them got shot down because it's going to be part of a Star Wars Insider article in June or July.

However, I have seen some griping on some sites that have been playing a little fast & loose with the Q&A submission deadlines.  As a result a number of them don't have anything for this session.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on April 29, 2010, 09:31 AM
A little clarification (http://www.yakfaceforums.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=125&p=83206) regarding the upcoming Endor Rebel Trooper:

Quote
Q1: Last session you confirmed a new Endor Commando for the Vintage line. Will it be jacket/pants rebel or the jumpsuit rebel from the vintage and POTF2 line that is long over due an update?

A1:  It's the trench coat Rebel, similar to the one that Sideshow just did.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on April 29, 2010, 10:45 AM
I would have preferred the vintage style one first but still cool.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on April 29, 2010, 10:46 AM
I noticed in this Q and A (http://www.jedi-business.com/Hasbro-Star-Wars-Q-And-A.aspx) it sounds like there is a Jedi Luke Skywalker coming in the ROTJ wave later this year.  From the answer, I'm not entirely clear if it is a completely new figure, or just some tweaks made to the previous version.

Quote
Will Jedi Luke be re-released on a vintage card, and if so, will you make any changes to the figure?

There are indeed plans for a new Jedi Luke in the Vintage format, that addresses the issues that folks have had with the proportions of the chest among other tweaks. Look for him later this year, with the figure available for preview at Comic Con.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 29, 2010, 03:15 PM
A little clarification (http://www.yakfaceforums.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=125&p=83206) regarding the upcoming Endor Rebel Trooper:

Quote
Q1: Last session you confirmed a new Endor Commando for the Vintage line. Will it be jacket/pants rebel or the jumpsuit rebel from the vintage and POTF2 line that is long over due an update?

A1:  It's the trench coat Rebel, similar to the one that Sideshow just did.


Sweet!  I asked Hasbro about this very figure, the Endor Sergeant SS made (he gets a shot popped off at him as he's hiding near the bunker), and they're making him.  Hmmmm...  Quite badass!  Thanks Hasbro.  :)  See, they do listen.  This is really really awesome to me.

Thanks for sharing that Jayson, I may have missed it otherwise.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on May 5, 2010, 10:13 AM
I've noticed that new Star Wars sites are starting to sprout up left and right.  Wondering if Hasbro will start limiting each site to only 1 question?  Started out fairly light and steady, but it seems to me like it might be a lot of work on their end now especially when all of the sites actually ask different questions.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on May 5, 2010, 10:26 AM
I've noticed that new Star Wars sites are starting to sprout up left and right.  Wondering if Hasbro will start limiting each site to only 1 question?  Started out fairly light and steady, but it seems to me like it might be a lot of work on their end now especially when all of the sites actually ask different questions.

Another effect of the increase in sites is the missing of the deadline to get the answers back to the participating sites. I think in 2010, they haven't made one yet.  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on May 5, 2010, 11:27 AM
It does seem odd to have new sites, considering fan interest is down...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 5, 2010, 03:11 PM
I've noticed that new Star Wars sites are starting to sprout up left and right.  Wondering if Hasbro will start limiting each site to only 1 question?  Started out fairly light and steady, but it seems to me like it might be a lot of work on their end now especially when all of the sites actually ask different questions.

Another effect of the increase in sites is the missing of the deadline to get the answers back to the participating sites. I think in 2010, they haven't made one yet.  :P

Yeah we've come to expect them a day or two late here for sure.

I'm just glad they do the Q&A, as I think at times it's insightful, at times it's got surprises, at times it's funny...  I hope they don't cut back because of new sites though, but I could see it happening.  I don't know why new sites are sprouting like weeds, but there does seem to be a spring of them lately.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 2, 2010, 03:35 PM
So you want more Q&A?  You got it!

Hasbro's back with the latest round of sound out of Pawtucket...

This time...

-Can we maybe expect more modernized versions of Vintage figures in their goofy inaccurate outfits?  Kind of like continuing the 4-LOM/Zuckuss set?

-What's the specifics on the Mail-In Fett offer?  5 POP or what?  Spill it!

Head On Out to the Front Page (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1275507096,85536,) to read the answers!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 4, 2010, 05:00 AM
I caught this Q at Yoda's News (http://www.Yodasnews.com) and I'm not so sure I agree:

Quote
YN: Most of us, including Hasbro, consider the Build-a-Droid idea the best one yet.  An idea I think that would top BAD is potentially in your UGH Vintage collection. Many collectors did not pursue previous UGH.  A sticker, or a gold coin, did not inspire us to pick up additional figures.  How about, if the vintage UGH was a figure that was painted or done up in it’s vintage style, retro deco colors?  Picture if you will, us looking for a Power Droid, Walrusman, Hoth Rebel Soldier, Death Squad Commander, a plastic cape Jawa as UGH figures in addition to their counterparts that are purchased in today’s colors.  I, and I know many of us, would welcome such a hunt. Please think about this idea.

Hasbro: You have hit upon something that we are thinking about, and that is tapping into the vintage Kenner deco schemes in a meaningful way.  We are currently doing this for the reverse 4-LOM/Zuckuss for Celebration V, which turned out really great.  With a good number of these vintage-inspired decos on tap, it's possible that we will deliver more as future convention-type exclusives or in other ways (basic figures being one possibility as well).

I'd like vintage-ish figures, that's not my qualm, but rather my thought is that making them UGH is going to piss many off...  Hasbro's attempts in the past to make UGH appealing to smaller sects of the collecting world was an effort NOT to piss off large clumps of people looking for figures to complete their collection that are intentionally difficult to find. 

Sometimes UGH is easy to find, and sometimes not...  Around here, the silver holo-figures were pretty rough to find, at all.  The gold coins were easier.  Where would the figures, repainted to look vintage, fall though?  I can only imagine they'd be the most difficult UGH to track down, and that would piss off many collectors.  Just my take...  I don't look at hunting for "chase" **** as an enjoyable aspect to this hobby though.  Actually to me, I'm really not into "chasing" anything if I can avoid it. 

BAD was fun, and you got something out of it, for your money...  Not because you were chasing it around.  Making intentionally hard to find figures is a sure-fire way to annoy more than you're going to make happy.  I'm kind of glad this hobby isn't Hot Wheels, and really want it to stay that way as much as possible.  Making the pack-in coins was cool, and I found them all even and was happy to complete a set, but with actual basic figures, I  feel sure I'd be less than thrilled tracking them down.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on June 4, 2010, 10:02 AM
Yeah, I think you're right there Jesse.  The UGH stuff, although I haven't actively pursued it, has been very hit and miss here locally.  I never saw any of the first round (foil card) ones, but did see a few gold coin ones from the second batch here and there.  I think if they made "vintage colored" variants a chase figure, they would be next to impossible to find.  And, although I hate to use the words, "scalper bait".  You know those would be getting snapped up like crazy and going for ridiculous money on ebay.  Plus, things like this (vintage color figures) would likely be something anyone collecting the vintage line would want to have, whereas the previous UGH things (card/coin differences) seemed to be hit and miss.  Some chased them, some could care less.

In theory, the "chase figure" thing should make a line a little more fun.  But, it just doesn't work in this collecting climate.  These days, there are too many people buying them up just to make money, not to "collect".  Although inflated prices would stink, if they could keep them normal, I'd almost rather see them be store/online/convention exclusives or something than chase figures.  I don't think we've had much trouble getting recent HTS/SWS exclusives from SDCC or Celebrations, and store exclusives often aren't quite as bad either.  Again, you could have the problem of one person clearing out a Target/WM/TRU...so maybe another way would be better.  Mail away is another option, but then you're probably only getting 1 or 2 a year.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on June 4, 2010, 11:45 AM

I agree with you, Jesse and Brian.  Even though Hasbro has done things such as the UGH, they have never done true chase figures in the Sw line. 

Whether it truly is collector and fan pullback from the line, or mismanagement by Hasbro, the SW line is on shaky ground at retail right now.  In 15 years I don't ever recall a year when some stores skipped entire waves of action figures.  That happened last year and early this year to some extent.

Adding chase figures now would be a very sharp double edged sword.  Sure, it would create some hype around the line, but in the end it would only fuel speculation by "fans" that don't regularly collect the line.  The potential for backlash is huge, especially since we already have that on a small scale over stupid ****, like punched/not punched peg hangers.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 28, 2010, 03:54 PM
-So which Clone repack are we getting exactly, since there are so many sculpts and all?

-"Collect Alll 92!" brings up Blue Gonks...  On your Radar, Hasbro?

The answers to these and nothing more are a Mere Click Away! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1277754718,95445,) :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on June 28, 2010, 05:30 PM
Glad to hear the Clone is somewhat newish!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 28, 2010, 10:57 PM
I'll nab a couple of him now, I think.  I got 2 Gelagrubs, both on sale, so I'm not short on that Clone, but I'll take a couple more.  I like the ball-jointed hip additions figures have come with now and again.  I'd like to see it more often really, at least on the Jedi and whatnot.  It's cool on troopers too because it helps them kneel, which is something most Hasbro figures have a tougher time pulling off.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on June 29, 2010, 01:27 AM
Jedi Temple War Room received one of, if not the most, ironic answers I've ever seen from Hasbro.  JTWR asked why there was never a basic Stormtrooper in the Legends line and Hasbro said that they had one available in the Legacy line and they wanted to "prevent overlap."

Really?  How much ovelap can you have on an in-demand, generic army builder that you CAN'T HAVE on a ******* Plo Koon figure?  Or C-3PO?  Or a goddamned Chewbacca figure?

Besides blaming collectors for everything wrong with the line over the last 2 years, this has to be the single mose ridiculous answer anyone has ever received from Hasbro.

Oh the toyirony! (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=2778.0)

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on June 29, 2010, 01:45 AM
Jedi Temple War Room received one of, if not the most, ironic answers I've ever seen from Hasbro.  JTWR asked why there was never a basic Stormtrooper in the Legends line and Hasbro said that they had one available in the Legacy line and they wanted to "prevent overlap."

Really?  How much ovelap can you have on an in-demand, generic army builder that you CAN'T HAVE on a ******* Plo Koon figure?  Or C-3PO?  Or a goddamned Chewbacca figure?

Besides blaming collectors for everything wrong with the line over the last 2 years, this has to be the single mose ridiculous answer anyone has ever received from Hasbro.

Oh the toyirony! (http://www.jeditemplewarroom.com/forum/index.php?topic=2778.0)

   E...


Agreed.  Plo Koon is just one offender of this kind of overlap.  When you look at multiple versions of figures like Darth Vader which occupied both the TLC and Saga Legends lines and Luke Skywalker in pilot gear (Exclusive, TLC RED & Saga Legends), it's kind of laughable that Hasbro would eliminate a plain vanilla Stormtrooper from the mix because of "overlap".
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on June 29, 2010, 02:07 AM
The funny part is that the overlap continues!!! C-3PO, Darth Vader, Anakin Skywalker (Turned Sith), Jango Fett, AOTC Obi-Wan, General Grievous and the EP3 Clonetrooper are all slated to appear in both the Vintage and Legends lines.

You know, we really shouldn't complain, just think what kind of shape we'd be in if the guy who planned out the Iron Man 2 assortments was running the Star Wars line, in the first wave we'd have:

Darth Vader (ANH Interrogation of Princess Leia)
Darth Vader (ANH Lightsaber Duel)
Darth Vader (ESB Invasion of Echo Base)
Darth Vader (ESB Bounty Hunter Meeting)
Darth Vader (ESB 1-part Removable Helmet)
Darth Vader (ESB Duel on Bespin)
Darth Vader (ROTJ Death Star 2 Inspection)
Darth Vader (ROTJ Endor Capture of Luke Skywalker)
Darth Vader (ROTJ 2-part Removable Helmet)
Darth Vader (ROTJ Death Star 2 Duel)
Darth Vader (ROTJ 3-part Removable Helmet) - Silver Foil Chase Figure
Darth Vader (ROTJ Smokey Funeral Pyre Edition)

So I guess things COULD be worse.  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2010, 08:41 PM
Hasbro Star Wars Q&A - Round 85, is now live.  Enjoy!

-Can we please get a peak at the new Endor Soldier you've got in the works?

-Can we please get a hint whether or not there's more Snowspeeders coming this year?

The answers to these and nothing else, await you by ! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/******* Right Here[/url)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on July 15, 2010, 11:33 PM
Hmm, they didn't care to ask how we got a Snow Speeder prior to August 6th?  ;)

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on July 16, 2010, 02:13 PM
I was just reading the Q and A over at AFI (http://www.actionfigureinsider.com/main/hasbro-star-wars-qa-answers-for-july-2010), and they confirmed that the "themed" waves will end at the end of this year (2010).  They mentioned that this might be different than previous information, and for some reason I was thinking we had themed waves through at least the first part of 2011 - but I may have been remembering that wrong.  Anyways, it looks like they are once again confirming four waves for this year - ESB, ROTS, ROTJ, and AOTC.  After that, we'll get the "mixed" waves - at least that is how it sounds.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 16, 2010, 02:35 PM
Hmm, they didn't care to ask how we got a Snow Speeder prior to August 6th?  ;)



I don't recall saying I did in the question.  I saw it around February.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on July 16, 2010, 11:13 PM
I am loving the news that next spring we will be getting another Force Unleashed multi-pack exclusive.

Hopefully, this time we'll get a Kazdan Paratus to round out the XBox 360/PS3 level bosses.

I wouldn't be surprised if one of the two Sith Lords from the PS2/Wii/PSP version of the game made it into this pack since Hasbro previously indicated interest in making them as figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 16, 2010, 11:22 PM
I'm pretty geeked for more TFU sets too, which there's a couple guys I'd still dig seeing made.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 14, 2010, 08:14 PM
Another round of sound from Hasbro has been posted...

-Soooooo...  how bout that Fanblade Fighter in the new CW3D Trailers?  Pretty cool, eh?

-And what the hell is up with this pretty big looking Disney Toy?  Oh wait, we already heard the answer to that one because the Q&A took forever.   >:(

All the answers to, well, basically one of the questions above, is waiting for you if you Click Right Here! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1284511058,77302,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on September 14, 2010, 09:45 PM
Kithaba was confimed over at SSG...that's cool! ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on September 14, 2010, 09:49 PM
Whoever works PR for Hasbro really needs to step in and say, "Look, this is getting borderline-sexist, please stop commenting on the characters' gender as a justification for determining which properties get green lit for production."

I feel like they harp on that way too much. I have 2 daughters and resent the implication that the heroins and villainesses are somehow second class. The show has really strong female characters, and it's a disservice to the female fans to imply that they are insignificant from a marketing standpoint.

If they don't want to make a toy because they don't think it will sell, that's fine - just say that and leave it at that. But to characterize the decision as gender-influenced as misguided at best, and offensive at worst.

Imagine the outcry if you replaced the word "female" with "African-American" or "Hispanic". (IE: "it actually suffers as a kid vehicle given it's rather unusual shape and the fact it belongs to a Hispanic antagonist") All hell would break loose. Someone at Hasbro needs a little refresher sensitivity training, IMO.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Rob on September 14, 2010, 09:59 PM
Weren't there supposed to be photos of new figures with this Q&A wave?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 14, 2010, 11:37 PM
Photos were implied that they'd maybe be available in Curto's interview with Hasbro at C5, but I don't think they were guaranteed...  Just a "maybe".  That has been pushed back to later on I guess.  No big deal but I was really kinda anxious for photos today too, so yeah I'm a little bummed. :(

Still...  that's probably why it's best for Hasbro not to say anything about that kind of stuff.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 15, 2010, 01:29 AM
- Add RotJ Sandstorm Leia (http://www.jedi-business.com/Hasbro-Star-Wars-Q-And-A.aspx) to the 2011 confirmed list.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on September 15, 2010, 01:53 AM
Whoever works PR for Hasbro really needs to step in and say, "Look, this is getting borderline-sexist, please stop commenting on the characters' gender as a justification for determining which properties get green lit for production."

I feel like they harp on that way too much. I have 2 daughters and resent the implication that the heroins and villainesses are somehow second class. The show has really strong female characters, and it's a disservice to the female fans to imply that they are insignificant from a marketing standpoint.


I think they're trying to give an honest perspective about what sells and what doesn't.  Historically action figures of female characters do not sell that well.  That's not discriminitory.  That's a business statement on how well one class of products sells compared with another. 

Hasbro was also stated for years that they did not think the Cloud Car would sell well.  Lo and behold they finally offer one and guess what?  It's not flying off the shelves as fast as the Snowspeeder.

There's a lot of discussion on a lot of forums about what Hasbro should or should not be doing.  But sometimes when it comes to female characters, or how well a vehicle may sell, you've got to trust some of Hasbro's market research.  They do on occassion get things right.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CloneF13Y35 on September 15, 2010, 08:38 AM
Whoever works PR for Hasbro really needs to step in and say, "Look, this is getting borderline-sexist, please stop commenting on the characters' gender as a justification for determining which properties get green lit for production."

I feel like they harp on that way too much. I have 2 daughters and resent the implication that the heroins and villainesses are somehow second class. The show has really strong female characters, and it's a disservice to the female fans to imply that they are insignificant from a marketing standpoint.


I think they're trying to give an honest perspective about what sells and what doesn't.  Historically action figures of female characters do not sell that well.  That's not discriminitory.  That's a business statement on how well one class of products sells compared with another. 

Hasbro was also stated for years that they did not think the Cloud Car would sell well.  Lo and behold they finally offer one and guess what?  It's not flying off the shelves as fast as the Snowspeeder.

There's a lot of discussion on a lot of forums about what Hasbro should or should not be doing.  But sometimes when it comes to female characters, or how well a vehicle may sell, you've got to trust some of Hasbro's market research.  They do on occassion get things right.

True and it's not like we want every single variation of Padme in all her hundreds of outfits, most of which would not translate well into a toy (unless they can utilize decent softgoods). I'm just glad they gave us a very good Hoth Leia, Now we need a Bespin one. I picked up the Padme Naberrie (tatooine ep1) and Queen Amidala (naboo ep1) when they came out. I didn't get any ep2 figs until Pilot Padme because they looked terrible. I got both the sneak peek Zam and the regular one because I liked the character - but again, the designs were not the best. I'm looking forward to the all new Zam coming out. I have most of the ep2 female jedis, because they looked cool even with funky poses, but the ep3 ones didn't look as good so I didn't get them. My son doesn't want girl figures all that much but even he wonders why hasbro doesn't make for the people who DO want them.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on September 15, 2010, 09:58 AM
I think they're trying to give an honest perspective about what sells and what doesn't.  Historically action figures of female characters do not sell that well.  That's not discriminitory.  That's a business statement on how well one class of products sells compared with another. 

Yeah, as I mentioned, I'm fine with them not making a toy if they don't think it will sell. That is all that needs to be said though. To say we're not making it because it is a girl's ship, is very ill-advised, all economics aside, IMHO. I understand the marketing component, I just think you have to be careful about how things are presented to the general public.

For example, there may be loads of market research that shows that Asian kids don't buy action figures. But you wouldn't want to cite that as a reason for not making Asian action figure characters. I've worked at several marketing companies, and that would be a HUGE misstep. You never want to exclude any demographic based on their perceived economic impact.

Just my 2 cents...I'm not really trying to blast Hasbro, I just think some of their responses come across as somewhat less than PC.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 15, 2010, 02:38 PM
I'd rather here why they're not making it than hear, "We're not making it because it won't sell well and can't tell you why".

It's a Boy's Toy brand...  I don't think saying that female characters tend to have a lower sales rate, is really that big of a shock, or politically incorrect.  I have a feeling if you checked Barbie's sales data, they'd say that Ken sells slower, so they make fewer of him and more of Barbie.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on September 16, 2010, 10:08 AM
In was disappointing for me to read from Raving Toy Maniacs QnA that a rerelease of Jabba's "creature pack" isn't in the works.  This is still one of my the few pieces on my "need to get list".  I am, for the current time atleast, refusing to pay the current after market price for this item.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 21, 2010, 09:11 PM
Hey guys,

I just wanted to post this, and I'm not going to copy/paste the email I received, but I thought I should address the group as a whole on our forums about this matter.

Hasbro has requested (through the PR firm which they communicate to all outlets through) that we ask that our readers and forum members PLEASE don't contact any Hasbro team member/employees about the Star Wars (or other) brands.  I don't know why we received this, and I'm assuming it's not due to someone on our site but rather someone else's, but essentially I'd say someone has gotten ahold of the phone number or email address of people (or an individual) who works for the Star Wars team, and are trying to do a private Q&A or chat session with them.

Hasbro really likes keeping the lines of communication open, but obviously they work pretty busy jobs, and they prefer that we keep all communication lines between the "Point person" of each website (In the case of Jedi Defender, I handle all brands except Marvel), and the company.  We actually do all our communication through Hasbro's PR firm as well, so it's not like we have the ears of the Star Wars brand team at any point that we wish either.  ;)

Again, I am doubting this email's necessity came about because of someone on our site, but I still wished to convey Hasbro's thoughts to you guys, as was requested.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt_Fury on September 22, 2010, 12:28 AM
Guess you're going to have to hold off on the continued threats over the Rebel Fleet Trooper Jesse!   :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 22, 2010, 02:06 AM
;D

Swear it wasn't me...  From what I hear, my prayers are being answered soon.  I just hope expectations are met.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Hobbie on September 22, 2010, 11:24 PM
Is it possible to attach a photo to a question sent in in a Q&A?
 
I keep coming up with questions about characters (okay, astrodroids) that don't have names, and are seldom pictured anywhere but on my own webpage.  Without a pic, I'm sure Hasbro would have no idea what I'm talking about.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on October 12, 2010, 10:29 AM
Hopefully we are getting something today.  RS.com made a posting on their front page but when you click the link (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_91st_STAR_WARS_QA_RoundUp_Report_134021.asp) all it says is "blah".  So its a placeholder of sorts for news to come probably/hopefully sometime today

edit:  meh they took the link to "blah" down. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on October 12, 2010, 11:35 AM
The latest round of answers was due yesterday, but like every other session this year, the answers were obviously delayed...  

That RS post must be an "oops" - he probably meant to write a draft to prepare for later in the week, but accidentally posted it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 12, 2010, 12:03 PM
I partially blame the glut of unestablished sites that joined in recent the months for the delays. There should have been some kind of stricter requirement from Hasbro to engage in these in my opinion.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on October 21, 2010, 02:48 PM
so, if Hasbro gets these out tomorrow they will almost only be two work weeks late....  seriously would appreciate some 411.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on October 21, 2010, 02:50 PM
I foresee Hasbro doing 100 rounds of these and then dropping the program.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on October 21, 2010, 02:54 PM
I foresee Hasbro doing 100 rounds of these and then dropping the program.

wow, that number is approaching fast...  that would be sad indeed.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on October 21, 2010, 03:21 PM
They really should have put a cap on participating sites.  I'm sure that's what's bogging them down.....
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 21, 2010, 03:38 PM
I foresee Hasbro doing 100 rounds of these and then dropping the program.

I wouldn't be surprised either.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on October 28, 2010, 12:48 PM
finally the QnA is coming out - Scum just posted theirs.    :)

wave 5 pics today?  I hope so!  but they weren't attached to the Scum QnA.   :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on October 28, 2010, 02:55 PM
I foresee Hasbro doing 100 rounds of these and then dropping the program.

I wouldn't be surprised either.

"Since the line has lost so many collectors that we could not lure back, we feel that we need to concentrate on rebuilding the brand. We feel it's best to focus on just Clone Wars (which is also struggling since the cartoon plots revolve around tainted soft drinks in the intergalactic school system) and NOT continue the Q&A sessions. After 100 sessions we feel this is a great way to bow out, for now. We here at Hasbro know how important you are and one day we may bring back this terrific forum. We thank you for submitting your questions, many of which we did not answer clearly. We also know it's YOUR fault for not supporting the brand. If only you purchased another Saesee Tiin, Moff Jerrjerrod, Yarna, the $70 Imperial Arc, the Power Ranger Crimson Guard pack, the Eclipse Tie Fighter with no Astromech socket, Steakhouse Waiter attire Wedge comic pack and the Gelegrub Battle pack we would not be in this situation. Did we mention, it's your fault? But hey, we truly appreciate the support that you did give us. (BTW - We decided to shelve the Vintage line until the following year when the movies are rereleased again. Have a nice day!"
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: ruiner on October 28, 2010, 03:09 PM
 :D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 28, 2010, 03:55 PM
Another round of Q&A ready for reading...

-So you guys tweaked that Snowtrooper, didn't you?

-Love them two-packs...  Can we have more with different themes?

Read All of This (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1288295614,54419,) and nothing more when you click on through.  Finally.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on October 29, 2010, 01:43 AM
So the awesome update to the Snowtrooper was just a happy accident?  That's as bad as them basically answering with a "Huh?" when asked why the TRU exclusive McQuarrie sets were missing accessories.  Or the fact that running changes are now too hard yet they running-changed the **** out of the Legends line in 2007/2008 without a snag.

It really feels like they have no idea what the **** the factories are doing half the time.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 29, 2010, 01:52 AM
Yeah, that one shocked me.  It also, sort of, makes it a unique figure too.

It's a good thing, but how can the factory just decide to change that for you?  That's not a minor change, it's a tooling change.  I think Hasbro's right hand doesn't know what it's left hand is doing, but it's left hand is regularly jamming its thumb up Hasbro's ass, and then causing confusion.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on October 29, 2010, 08:19 PM
Interesting answers at Yodas News:

QUESTION:  Could you re-make the Jawa Sandcrawler like you did for the AT-AT and Falcon. It is in need of an overhaul. I hope I speak for all the Droid/Jawa fans out there. With all the Droids from the Droid Factory line, it would be awesome to have a new Sandcrawler to display them in!

ANSWER:  We would love to remake the Jawa Sandcrawler, and at one time started to look at what a super-sized version would cost in terms of tooling. The bottom line is that it would cost too much given the more niche nature of this vehicle.

Our most recent release (nearly 10 years ago) was lightly received by fans - one of the rarest vehicle releases of the modern Star Wars line, despite the fact it's a very tough vintage vehicle to obtain. It seems that this vehicle has some passionate fans, but overall it's too niche to be able to re-imagine any time soon.

It remains a dream for some day, but we can't let our passion for it override business sense.


QUESTION:  Are you planning a new Luke in Jedi Outfit (Return of the Jedi) on Vintage Card?

ANSWER:  Yes, we are. We are doing two things here: The current Luke figure on the EpVI card will actually get a running change to the card, where we will change the card art and the name to be "Luke Skywalker: Endor Capture." We will also look to introduce down the road another EpVI version, but details on that won't be available until next Spring.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Sad about the Sandcrawler but good to hear about Luke(s).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 30, 2010, 02:09 AM
To be kind of honest, I'm glad about the Sandcrawler...  That last one tanked, it wasn't even "common" at the time but it still hit clearance...  Granted it's maybe not what everyone wants too, but I think it speaks volumes about the vehicle itself.

I'd rather see a new fighter done to-scale, than see the Sandcrawler get any kind of resculpt.  Just my feelings though.  To me, it's not worth the effort I guess.   :-\

The thought of a cool "Droid Factory" homage set though, that seems kind of fun and different.  It's not the vehicle though of course, so I suppose it doesn't fill any hole people have in their hearts for a Sandcrawler update.  To me though, it's likke the Star Destroyer...  I'd rather just get the bridge pits done accurately than an attempt at a truncated V-shaped ship/toy.  I'm weird like that though.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 30, 2010, 10:09 AM
I was reading through some of the Q and A summaries over at JTA, and noticed that one of the questions from 16bit confirms that there will be another large vehicle for next year.  The only details Hasbro gives is that it will be less than $99.99, and it will be Clone Wars based.

A few other nice confirmations this round.  I noticed they confirmed there is a new Lando next year (to possibly be revealed in December), and it is not a Bespin version.  Personally, I'd like to see an all-new Skiff Guard Lando - even though the TSC wasn't horrible by any means.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on October 30, 2010, 10:44 AM
I love the Jawas and their ride, so it'd be worth the effort to me.  Clearly it's not the AT-AT so it wouldn't work at retail (is the AT AT working..?)

There was actually a lot of good snippets in the QNA this week:

New Lando
Bespin Escape Leia
Running change on DS2 Luke
New ROTJ Luke apart from that
TPM figs pushed all the way out (9-10 months from now)
New big vehicle (I'm thinking we haven't seen it yet in the cartoon)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CloneF13Y35 on October 30, 2010, 02:39 PM
If they don't want to make a new sandcrawler, then just re-release the previous one. I only ever saw it at Suncoast movie stores and it was always $60! I went there weekly to see if it'd go onsale as other stuff did then one day the two they had were gone (not sold the guy who recognized me said).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on October 30, 2010, 05:14 PM
Our most recent release (nearly 10 years ago) was lightly received by fans - one of the rarest vehicle releases of the modern Star Wars line

Was it really nearly 10 years ago on the Sandcrawler  ???  Wow...time flys I guess.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Captain Piet on October 30, 2010, 06:41 PM
Our most recent release (nearly 10 years ago) was lightly received by fans - one of the rarest vehicle releases of the modern Star Wars line

Was it really nearly 10 years ago on the Sandcrawler  ???  Wow...time flys I guess.

2003-04
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on October 30, 2010, 09:11 PM
I can sort of see why they wouldn't re-do the Sandcrawler, but I was sort of hoping for a re-do or re-release as well.  I also missed the previous version, and wouldn't mind getting another chance at it eventually.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on November 1, 2010, 11:57 PM
Sounds like (http://www.sirstevesguide.com/index.php?categoryid=13&p2_articleid=2665) were getting a new Lando (Skiff Guard?) next year and a new Leia (either Bespin Escape or Gown (http://www.actionfigs.com/index.php?categoryid=61&p2_articleid=4509)) too.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 2, 2010, 12:05 AM
My wagers are on Bespin Escape...  Milk that Hoth Leia sculpt a bit.

Though given Hasbro's weirdness, they'd just as likely resculpt her from the ground up rather than re-use parts it seems.  That AT-ST Driver still has me scratching my head as to why they completely skipped using anything Scanner tech on it. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Blaster under the pillow on November 2, 2010, 04:51 AM
I wouldn't be surprised if they get to the sandcrawler one day, something tells me they'll be selling star wars product for a long time to come. I would definitely be up for one, and the bigger the better. I don't see why they couldn't work some of the old droid factory features into the interior and combine the two for more play value.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on November 2, 2010, 07:34 PM
Good lord, THREE new Jedi Lukes? We've been getting at least one Jedi Luke a year since 2006. You'd think they would have perfected him by now. (I know he has a few different costumes, but still)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: efranks on November 3, 2010, 07:11 PM
I'm thinking more and more that the large vehicle for 2011 may be something we haven't seen before, something coming up later this season and maybe tied to a new character or a major plot point for an existing character like Anakin or something.  We'll see.

On the Lando front, I think General Lando is something I'd be more interested in than an update to the Skiff Guard version.  The Saga/OTC version isn't bad, but neither is the Skiff Guard version from the same timeframe.

   E...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 3, 2010, 07:48 PM
I'd put Skiff and General right with one another...  They both lack articulation, basically, though the Skiff has better arm articulation already.

I'd take an update to both...  General would probably be my preference though as well, since it's just a cooler outfit and they'd maybe give him a cloth cape now too.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on November 4, 2010, 09:30 AM
I'd take an update to both...  General would probably be my preference though as well, since it's just a cooler outfit and they'd maybe give him a cloth cape now too.

same here.  I don't feel that the Skiff version is too dated - yet.  If I were to chose one that needed the updated version over the other I would say the General tops the Skiff.  In my incredibly large collection I still do not have Bespin Lando or General Lando.  Bespin Lando I may nab from someone trying to unload it from the Target 9 pack, but the previous General version was/is just not something I am feeling like seeking after as a priority to add to my collection.  A new one would more than likely = an instant purchase from me.

That said, I am 99% sure the Skiff version would sell better (it is a cool figure/design - way more appealing to kids I would think), so I see Hasbro doing that one.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mister Skeezler on November 4, 2010, 10:37 AM
I would love to have a resculpt of both Skiff guard Lando and Lando General.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darth broem 2 on November 4, 2010, 11:59 AM
Yeah, the Lando Skiff really needs an SA resculpt to keep up with all the other Jabba Skiff aliens now.  I also wish they would make a new Han Solo out of carbonite.  Then again with all the crummy Solo heads from Death Star Escape and the upcoming Yavin celebration maybe that's not a good idea right now? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 4, 2010, 12:14 PM
Yeah, I'd be up for either Skiff or General Lando.  I think both of the TSC versions were pretty nicely, but - as mentioned - not really up to current articulation standards.  Personally, I always have a spot for the Skiff version since that was one of my favorite figures as a kid, but I'd be down for either one.

I'd be up for a new Carbonite Han as well.  I wasn't a huge fan of the TSC version, and if they are intent on anchoring these waves with main characters that would be a nice version to do (after Bespin, of course).  Honestly, I can appreciate what they are trying to do lately with finding "new" versions of Han (and others) to release, but the last few have really not impressed.  As a fan of Han Solo, it is disappointing, because I can't say I've thought all that much of the last few (TVC, upcoming Ceremony, and Death Star Escape).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 5, 2010, 10:59 AM
Just listening to the SWAN podcast's Q and A, and it sounds like a new Jedi Luke (with cloak) is indeed on the way in Fall of 2011.  They also mentioned that the Yoda figure (from the ROTJ wave) is being delayed and put on a ROTS cardback instead.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 22, 2010, 04:12 PM
The latest round of Star Wars Q&A (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1290460209,34232,) has been posted for your reading pleasure.

-That Bespin Luke pops apart easily...  Can we expect more from it?

-What constitutes a blaster's or other accessory sculpt being upgraded?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on November 22, 2010, 04:18 PM
Interesting response regarding question #1.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on November 22, 2010, 04:50 PM
So they want to know what we want in future Stormtroopers?

Easy. 

- no yellowing
- helmets that look more like the Tantive IV Battle Pack sculpt
- belts that don't look choppy on the edges like the current Sandtrooper
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 22, 2010, 05:54 PM
Interesting response regarding question #1.

My guess on that Luke figure will be a repaint of the Hoth Pilot Luke to make it look like he just came out of the bog.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on November 22, 2010, 06:32 PM
That would have to be the only other option.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on November 22, 2010, 07:08 PM
over at GH they asked a question and got a response containing Fozec in the answer!  w00t!  sounds like he keeps getting bumped - but reading in between the lines makes me think he is not that much farther away...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on November 22, 2010, 08:18 PM
He wore two outfits on Dagobah...

Snowspeeder w/o gloves, wet/dirty w/ belt

(http://masterskywalker.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/luke-skywalker-dagobah.jpg)

Bespin w/ and Without Long Sleeve Shirt...with and without belt

Also note they could be sort of hinting at a Darth Vader/Luke Cave hybrid which I believe was mentioned at one point.

Not high on any Dagobah Luke as I'm satisfied with both OTC ones and the one that came in the X-Wing

(http://www.rebelscum.com/TSC/tscXwinglukeLS.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 22, 2010, 09:15 PM
I'm actually really stoked for ANY Dagobah Luke...  No articulation?  Come on Scott. :)  You know you want an uber-articulated one.

The Snowspeeder tweaked one is my bet though.  He spent a bit of time like that, chastising R2.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on November 22, 2010, 09:35 PM
I'd probably prefer him without the sleeves... kind of surprised actually that they never repacked that exclusive version in some sort of manner.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on November 22, 2010, 11:38 PM
So they want to know what we want in future Stormtroopers?

Easy. 

- no yellowing
- helmets that look more like the Tantive IV Battle Pack sculpt
- belts that don't look choppy on the edges like the current Sandtrooper


You made my night! The Tantive IV Stormtrooper is the one I army built of all of the basic Stormtroopers, I have 34 currently. I always liked them the best, I have not heard many other talk about this topic lately.

I would not mind the Bog Dive Luke at all but I would prefer to have a new training one first. Either way, I love how much they are focusing more on the OT in Vintage. Bring on Fozec too! (Screw the useless Podracers.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on November 23, 2010, 09:21 AM
Bring on Fozec too! (Screw the useless Podracers.)

Hell Yes!    ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on November 23, 2010, 09:33 AM
I like the cool Podracing aliens.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on November 23, 2010, 12:31 PM
He wore two outfits on Dagobah...

...Also note they could be sort of hinting at a Darth Vader/Luke Cave hybrid which I believe was mentioned at one point.

What if they are messing with us and what we're really getting is the Jabba's Palace/Jedi Knight outfit (again).  He wore that outfit to Dagobah to watch Yoda die...  I know I'd like to see yet another black-clad Jedi Luke figure in the line.  :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 23, 2010, 04:10 PM
Plus it'd be, basically, the exact same figure.  :)  That's funny if it's true...  An easy pass, but there is an element of humor if that were the "Dagobah" outfit they were hinting at.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on November 23, 2010, 08:43 PM
That would be funny.  I think we all want a Jabba's Palace (or Dagobah) Jedi Luke (ok, some of us).  May be a nice opportunity for a new card.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on November 23, 2010, 10:25 PM
I think that they should paint the Bespin Luke's outfit black, give him a new tan vest, and you've got a nice Shadows of the Empire Luke.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 24, 2010, 05:23 PM
I was reading through some of the summaries from this round of Q and A's, and this answer (http://www.kittyspryde.com/?p=4191) seems to give a little info on a future Jedi Luke figure:

Quote
With the release if the new Jedi Luke figure in wave 3 of the vintage collection pending, why did Hasbro forgo his signature cloak and pistol? These accessories would have gave us the ultimate Luke Jedi, film wise. The figure itself looks spectacular but many fans want his Jedi robes. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to the franchise, we look forward to the future of this line!

Answer: The original plan, when it was drawn up on paper, was to have an updated, iconic Jedi Luke in the lineup for ’11 but our design team decided to do a version of Luke that had not been done before in some time and included the binders, while taking the cloak out. However, our packaging team did not get the message and created packaging for a Jedi Luke figure. As such, there was a mismatch. We have heard the fans in this regard, and are making moves to actually *change* the current packaging to become an “Endor Capture” Luke. Look for this in Spring ’11 as a running change to the current figure. This leaves the window open for the future return of a cloaked Jedi Luke figure, in a surprise new take inspired by the deleted scenes we saw from the Blu-Ray presentation at CV. Look for that version in Fall ’12…stay tuned!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on November 24, 2010, 06:11 PM
Fall '12...just around the corner.  :P

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on February 10, 2011, 12:25 AM
Q&A will be returning, as per DD via the Forcecast...  Sometime after Toy Fair it'll return.  Kind of vague.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 25, 2011, 09:50 PM
Q&A Submissions are resuming Friday, as per our front page.

Let the fun begin!  :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on April 25, 2011, 10:05 PM
I'd like to know if any Hasbro reps are going to pull all those defective clones (and non-defective) that are warming pegs to allow for newer waves to hit and sell.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: warinthefloor on April 26, 2011, 10:59 AM
Or if they are even aware or care that they have now let distrobution tank their flafship star wars figure line.

The onoly question I care about for them is how they plan to fix this in the future, they SWORE distobution would be taken care of with Vintage and it has been a disaster
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on April 26, 2011, 11:49 AM
Just so I know for certain, are we supposed to put our questions for Hasbro on this line here or in the "Hey Hasbro" forum?  I have been posting some in the other forum and I just want to make sure I am putting them in the right place for this line.

thanks!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 26, 2011, 11:58 AM
This thread is for discussion of the Q&A answers/sessions.  If you have questions you'd like to suggest , put them over here... 

If you'd like to ask Hasbro a question, you can find all the details on how to do that HERE (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=12626.0)!

It's a housekeeping thing - it's much easier to track the questions if they are all in one place (over there) instead of spread out in here where they get mixed in amongst all the rest of the discussion...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on April 26, 2011, 01:57 PM
They really should have put a cap on participating sites.  I'm sure that's what's bogging them down.....

Returning to an old discussion topic here - it sounds like they finally did cap the Q&A sessions. 

There are a number of sites that were informed that they would no longer be allowed to particpate in the Q&A sessions "in order to continue to deliver the greatest value to the collector-fan community".

So, to recap, the Q&A is back... but it's just 2-questions-per-month now... and with less sites being allowed to participate.  Enjoy!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on April 27, 2011, 08:51 AM
Who got axed? How did they decide who made the cut and who didn't? I'm really curious to hear more about this.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on April 27, 2011, 09:49 AM
iirc. there were a lot of submissions it seemed that were popping up that were basically just regional submissions of main sites - if that makes sense.

For example:
Superstarwarsfreak.com - main site
superstarwarsfreak.com/europe
superstarwarsfreak.com/china
superstarwarsfreak.com/canada
superstarwarsfreak.com/panamacanal
etc.

everything other than superstarwarsfreak.com would be what was axed if I am on the right path...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 27, 2011, 04:16 PM
There are no details yet as to who all got cut, or what the criteria was.

I've not heard the regional thing...  I thought Scum was the only site with separate regional coverage, actually? 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on April 27, 2011, 07:15 PM
I guess I thought it was more wide spread - but I did a quick search and found here (http://www.rebelscum.com/story/euro/Hasbros_90th_STAR_WARS_QA_RoundUp_Report_133371.asp) during this QA session

tons more sites and some I have never heard of before.  and as in my example above - jedinews.ca and jedinews.co.uk

again, I thought there were more examples of what I was saying - but maybe I am wrong.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on April 27, 2011, 07:25 PM
I counted 31 sites in that Rebelscum roundup.  Ton of sites I'd never heard of, either:  AllSpark, ASMzine, Awesome Toy Blog, JediNews.ca, Jedi Temple War Room (great, just what the world needs--another Star Wars nerd site with "Jedi" in the title), Kitty's Pride, Lichtgesundheit.de, Republic Forces Radio Network, and Sandtroopers.com.

Man, I'm glad I got out of the Q&A archive game when I did.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on April 27, 2011, 07:39 PM
tons more sites and some I have never heard of before.  and as in my example above - jedinews.ca and jedinews.co.uk

again, I thought there were more examples of what I was saying - but maybe I am wrong.

I'd not seen those...  And they all asked questions?  Wow.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 27, 2011, 09:01 PM
I counted 31 sites in that Rebelscum roundup.  Ton of sites I'd never heard of, either:  AllSpark, ASMzine, Awesome Toy Blog, JediNews.ca, Jedi Temple War Room (great, just what the world needs--another Star Wars nerd site with "Jedi" in the title), Kitty's Pride, Lichtgesundheit.de, Republic Forces Radio Network, and Sandtroopers.com.

Man, I'm glad I got out of the Q&A archive game when I did.

A number of those sites are offshoots from other sites.  I was involved in one of those, but that is no longer the case, as I've parted ways with the main site and only maintain a minimal presence there.  But some of these other sites were general toy blogs. 

The drive for some of these offshoot sites was due in large part because of the way Hasbro had been conducting the Q&A process.  The sessions started to slow down.  Then the number of questions per site became limited.  But when it became clear that numerous sites that were networks of a sort, with URL's that were independent of one another and Hasbro was willing to recognize those subsidiaries in the Q&A process, more sites joined the mix.  In the case of the site(s) I was involved with, the push was to pose serious, probing questions to Hasbro that would be newsworthy for our readers and the broader collecting community.  In the case of those sites I think we accomplished that (most of the time).

But the process got bogged down.  Too many sites got involved and Hasbro / Hunter PR didn't set limits on the number of sites involved from the get-go.  Answers came back slower and slower.  There were more instances of multiple sites asking questions about the same topic and Hasbro sending the same answer back to all of those sites, word for word.  But all too often Hasbro has been getting questions that they say they won't address:  "When are you going to make X figure?"
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on April 27, 2011, 09:10 PM
^^^ completely agree with all of the above.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on April 28, 2011, 08:06 AM
I am really not surprised by the fact that cuts were made.

I would not be surprised if sites that are about toys in general or are more focused on other Hasbro lines (like Transformers or GI JOE) got cut along with the more blog-type sites. If they make cuts on the GI Joe or Transformers Q&As, then I wouldn't be surprised if JediDefender gets cut from one of those. It may stink a little, but it does make sense.

As a Q&A reader, I would like to see some of the sites start to band together to help coordinate their questions so there aren't so many instances of two (or more sites) asking the same question. Sort of a greater good effort for the community as a whole. Maybe I'm asking a lot - but even if it was just JediDefender, YakFace and Galactic Hunter (I only mention YakFace and GH 'cause I know guys who work those sites also post here) cross checking with each other before submitting questions, that would be a great start - if the fact that the cross checking occurs is made public and the sites are openly sharing answers, other sites are gonna wanna join too - it could be the start of a "Hasbro Q&A Coalition" of sorts...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on April 28, 2011, 08:33 AM
As a Q&A reader, I would like to see some of the sites start to band together to help coordinate their questions so there aren't so many instances of two (or more sites) asking the same question. Sort of a greater good effort for the community as a whole. Maybe I'm asking a lot - but even if it was just JediDefender, YakFace and Galactic Hunter (I only mention YakFace and GH 'cause I know guys who work those sites also post here) cross checking with each other before submitting questions, that would be a great start - if the fact that the cross checking occurs is made public and the sites are openly sharing answers, other sites are gonna wanna join too - it could be the start of a "Hasbro Q&A Coalition" of sorts...

That may be like trying to herd cats.

The rule of thumb when I was involved in the process is this:  if it's a super obvious question, avoid it.  Most likely other sites will ask it, and in numbers. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Captain Piet on April 28, 2011, 07:58 PM
Listen, I far prefer they concentrate on the making of the toys than talking about them but, let's face it, Hasbro's communication sucks and its moronic decisions demand clarification and explanation more than anything else. Most of these sites chimp out too and ask "lay-up" questions anyway.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on May 25, 2011, 01:21 PM
looks like these are finally starting to come out:

According to Rebelscums qna it sounds like 2 of the deleted scene figures will be Luke while building his lightsaber and sandstorm Lando.  Hopefully the Lando will include everything to also make him Skiff Guard Lando.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 25, 2011, 02:07 PM
the deleted scene figures will be Luke while building his lightsaber

Yes!  Because if there is one thing we need, it's more Luke in black outfit figures from RotJ!!!!

2007 - Jabba Luke with Bone
2008 - Jedi Luke with Sand Hat
2009 - Jedi Luke with torso flap part
2010 - Jedi Luke (with bonus "Endor Capture" recard)
2011 - Jedi Luke with "in-process" lightsaber

No overkill there at all...  ::)  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 25, 2011, 02:15 PM
I see in Yakface's Q and A this week they confirm that the Landspeeder will see a vintage box release at Target towards the end of the year.  I always liked that vehicle, and it is cool to see it getting another release.  Although I already have one, I think I'd probably grab another.  The previous (Saga?) version is one of their better vehicle releases I thought.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 25, 2011, 02:22 PM
Jeff, I did not realize we have be given him 5 years straight. Soon to be 6 years straight. Well, this should be the definitive Jedi Luke based on the new Vintage Luke tool. He has a cloak in the scene so we should get that, I just hope they go a sculpted route on the tunic robes so I can check that off of my want list.

Based on what Jeff brought up I will guess 2012 will be Final Jedi Duel Luke with the flap down sculpted on a new torso.

I agree with Brian on the Landspeeder, it's really solid one of the best in the line ever. Unless they add some new twist to this release I am not sure I will get this. But then again that box may be too nice to pass on. The current crop of vehicle decos are severely lacking when compared to previous releases. The 30th TAC was the pinnacle of vehicle deco, just look a the V-Wing and Droid Tank.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 25, 2011, 03:28 PM
Jedi Defender's Q&A Round 89 (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1306351590,75305,) has been posted...

-Where's Cliegg?  The guy keeps making our wishlists, EVERY year!

-Speaking of wishlists, 2009's Toy Fare pole hasn't gotten the same love as 2006's Toy Fare pole.  What's the deal?

All that, and nothing more, await you in this round's Q&A.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 25, 2011, 03:43 PM
It's about time we are getting some new news to talk about besides leaks. This hobby is in somewhat rough waters right now and needs some "juice".

I cannot say I am shedding a tear over not getting a old guy missing a leg in a floating lark who really added nothing to the story (Sorry  but yes I am a hater towards Cliegg I would put the queen before him.). Podracer fans should be happy with Ben finally coming. I am very happy with the Vintage Tarkin, he desperately needs an updated figure!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: warinthefloor on May 25, 2011, 04:00 PM
Do they revoke your Q&A Card if you ask about their terrible distrobution?

Because I can figure out any other reason why no one is asking the only question that matters....
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 25, 2011, 04:04 PM
Do they revoke your Q&A Card if you ask about their terrible distrobution?

Because I can figure out any other reason why no one is asking the only question that matters....

Jedinews did but in a different way. The answer they got is somewhat encouraging:

2) With new figures in both The Vintage Collection and The Clone Wars only shipping one per case it is getting frustratingly hard to get each and every new figure. Surely it would make sense to pack all new figures two per case therefore ensuring that more people get access to these new figures and then leaving the remaining slots in the cases for the more popular figures from previous waves? It seems brick and mortar shops are ordering fewer cases and by making this switch you'll allow a greater number of collectors and kids to get the new figures they want and stop the problems we're currently encountering whereby all we're finding at retail are huge quantities of Clone Troopers and Sandtroopers (that's probably stopping the retailers from ordering more product - it’s seems like a vicious circle!).

We are continually optimizing our ratios in order to maximize the most sought after figures in each case pack. Beginning in fall 2011 and continuing into 2012 you will see this strategy in action on a more regular basis.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on May 25, 2011, 04:23 PM
why no one is asking the only question that matters....

Keep in mind that the majority of the Q&A sites got together ahead of this Q&A session to try to eliminate duplicate questions to maximize Hasbro's time.  So, instead of 6-10 sites asking about distribution, only a couple decided to ask that question.

Also, even though they didn't ask a distribution question, many sites included a "comment" on distribution with their Qs to emphasize the point with Hasbro.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on May 25, 2011, 04:48 PM
Holy **** at Quadrinaros!  I thought he was pretty much in the "neva-eva" category....  I am not jonesing for him or anything - but I will add him to my collection for sure.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on May 25, 2011, 04:52 PM
Jeff, I did not realize we have be given him 5 years straight. Soon to be 6 years straight. Well, this should be the definitive Jedi Luke based on the new Vintage Luke tool. He has a cloak in the scene so we should get that, I just hope they go a sculpted route on the tunic robes so I can check that off of my want list.


And No Glove for this scene.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 25, 2011, 05:04 PM
Jeff, I did not realize we have be given him 5 years straight. Soon to be 6 years straight. Well, this should be the definitive Jedi Luke based on the new Vintage Luke tool. He has a cloak in the scene so we should get that, I just hope they go a sculpted route on the tunic robes so I can check that off of my want list.


And No Glove for this scene.

WORD!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 25, 2011, 05:21 PM
I still say it's not Hasbro's "distribution issue" as much as it's the retailers...

-K-Mart...  They're in their first half lull of not ordering anything.  My KM stores have gotten in very little beyond Wave 3 and 4, and they've sold through almost all of it.  Nothing left on the pegs at one store, and they're ordering nothing.

-Toys R Us...  they're grossly overpriced in a time when everything is grossly overpriced as it is, yet TRU takes it to a new level.  Who is going to buy there, not to mention (at least for me) they're not really convenient.  Target, KM, WM...  They're all around, within a few minutes by comparison.  TRU?  Nowhere near as plentiful.  If TRU were the same price as Target I'd keep them on my list of possible stops, but right now I know I don't buy ANY Vintage there due to what they're charging.  I doubt I'm alone.  Times are hard.  People's desire to get things cheap should never be underestimated.

-Target...  A couple weeks ago they got some wave 5 and 6 cases in.  My Target sold through.  They're back to just Wave 1 pegwarmers for the most part.  Target not ordering, again, isn't Hasbro's fault...  Target's just not in the mood to commit a lot to Vintage figures right now it appears.

-WM...  The only store that has a plethora of pegwarming ROTS Clones...  He sucks.  One figure isn't really a "distribution issue" to me.  He's one ****** figure.  Every year there is one ****** figure.  Sometimes there's a lot more than one actually.  If WM clearanced him and got him out of there, they'd do themselves a favor but nobody there probably is aware they need to do that. 

However I've notice, even with my drastically cut number of toy runs, that every WM I visit is STEADILY getting in new cases of Vintage wave 4, 5, and 6 (though less of 6, however that seems to be changing now too).  I see these waves refreshed, every weekend.  I just got my 2nd Peasant Anakin out of a minty fresh case of wave 4 on Sunday.  They're the only store ordering, yet they're the only store with the perceived "distribution problem".  That doesn't add up.

I think Hasbro's answer is encouraging, like JACK said.  They see that the Phase 2 Clone is a toilet clogger and they're working on that.  It's about the answer I'd have expected too I guess.  It's hard to micro-manage case-packs though, when you've got to have them set months and months in advance too.

It's funny though, now that Legends figures got clearanced at WM, a store that had literally 20 of AOTC Clones and another 20 white ROTS Clones, now has maybe 2 or 3 of each...  If that even.  That clearance has sold almost every Legends army builder really fast.  The demand is there, the price just isn't anywhere near where people are willign to pay it I guess.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on May 25, 2011, 05:28 PM
Do they revoke your Q&A Card if you ask about their terrible distrobution?

Because I can figure out any other reason why no one is asking the only question that matters....

I asked something along these lines (http://www.16bit.com/hasbroswqa-110525.asp).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on May 25, 2011, 05:41 PM
Man, I wish they would go back to two figures per new character per case. Good question Adam, I miss the Saga2/TAC case ratios.

Overall from the 5 sets of questions I have read I like the answers given. (As long as Hasbro delivers on them.)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on May 25, 2011, 06:22 PM
The crazy thing is that for the most part, GI JOE (and many other Hasbro lines) are packed (initially) with 2 of each new figure.  Something about Star Wars must have somebody in the bean counting pod really vexed or there is something wrong with their "Metrics".

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on May 25, 2011, 06:56 PM
Do they revoke your Q&A Card if you ask about their terrible distrobution?

Because I can figure out any other reason why no one is asking the only question that matters....

I asked something along these lines (http://www.16bit.com/hasbroswqa-110525.asp).

love it!

edit:  W00t 1000th post    :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Adam_Pawlus on May 25, 2011, 07:10 PM
The crazy thing is that for the most part, GI JOE (and many other Hasbro lines) are packed (initially) with 2 of each new figure.  Something about Star Wars must have somebody in the bean counting pod really vexed or there is something wrong with their "Metrics".

Well, they were-- usually higher than 1-per-box ratios were sold primarily as dotcom cases, some of which made it to the stores and some didn't.  Most of the cases from 2007 onward were pretty stingy with the new guys as Star Wars went, GI Joe was largely 1 per case in the bulk of the 25th Anniversary line, Pursuit of Cobra has been either 1 or 2-- depending on the revision.  (Wave 3 and 4 were nice, though.)

I think they're balancing cases toward a more retail-friendly ratio, which is a mixed bag.  It's not the Darth Vader or Boba Fett repacks that are the pegwarmers...

The real issue seems to be TRU never got anything past wave 2-- correct me if I'm wrong, I've never seen anything new there-- while Wal-Marts seem to get a lot (that goes within a day, up to wave 6) and Target seems to be getting up to wave 5 and I don't think I've seen much if any wave 6 there.  The ratios aren't terrible, but there's no new product shipping at some stores.

Transformers is even worse.  There's a whole subline called "Reveal the Shield."  About nine of those toys got distributed to stores, with another 12+ that-- as far as can be told-- have been available in Australia, Canda, and/or the UK since last year and have never hit American big box stores.  They've essentially become US online exclusives, despite stores being out of product, nobody's getting them.  It's surreal-- hundreds of thousands of dollars  in development were wasted due to poor distribution.  New tooling down the crapper.

I can actually find the new SW guys-- but as far as I can tell nobody saw the new Transformers unless you bought online or through a distributor (like the one I work at).
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 25, 2011, 07:30 PM
The Target cases seem to vary on your area.  I'm like your area in that I have seen nothing but Wave 5, but when Target (finally) started to actually stock new Vintage the first reports were Wave 6 in abundance...  I forget what areas saw that, but Pittsburgh sure hasn't been that way (in general).  That was where the first instances of the "fixed" figures for Wave 6 seemed to surface though.

And after that first push of Wave 5, my Targets are back down to just Wave 1 pegwarmers and nothing more, complete with the black circles pulled out to the end of the pegs so each peg only accomodates 1 or 2 figures.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on May 25, 2011, 08:55 PM
It really does seem like it varies by area a lot, but nowhere seems to be particularly plentiful.  Our TRU, like many others, has basically had nothing past Wave 2 - and not much of that either.  Our Wal-Mart, while it has the most space available for TVC, has had nothing but solid pegs of the Sandtrooper and ROTS Clone (and maybe one or two other odd figures) for months upon months now.  Barring a clearance, those aren't going anywhere, and I don't expect to see anything new there soon.  Our closest Target had next to nothing for a long time (a couple of 4-LOMs), but recently has started getting a few new things.  I've seen Wave 5 a couple times, and recently even seen Wave 6 there twice now (Lando, Weequay, etc.).  Other than that, there hasn't been much new in a long time at any of our local stores.  Anyways...back to the Q and A now.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on May 26, 2011, 12:54 AM
My Wal-Marts are starting to get in lots of Waves 5 and 6. That's usually how it is though... about 2 months after a wave hits, Wal-Mart gets in multiple cases, and 90% of the figures from that wave are easy to find. The last 2 years there have been dry spells but that's happening all over the country so I've gotten used to it. Target gets in a ton of the first/second waves of a new toy line and then never restocks. TRU is basically the same except they never sell anything because of their insane prices.

But yeah, even though Wal-Mart still has a glutton of ROTS Clones, they're starting to get new stuff in, which can only be good. Hopefully this continues. I've seen only bare pegs at Target since November/December when they got the ROTS wave before everyone else. TRU, I think I've been there once since August.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 26, 2011, 02:08 AM
The thing with WM for me is that they've been getitng in stuff ALL year, they just sell through really fast and if you're not there semi-routinely, you're probably just missing it.

For instance the store I hit the most, I hit usually two or three times in a weekend...  I don't hit it much during the week.

This store is the usual sea of ROTS Clones, ROTS Obi-Wans, a few Sandtroopers, and a few Anakins.  Basically every peg is pretty full for Vintage.

So, say I go Friday...  there's suddenly a straggler figure from a new case.  Indications that something new was put out this week, but I just missed everything.  Saturday maybe I have to go back...  nothing.  Sunday I have to go back because it's close and I have to get some food...  Suddenly more stragglers from a case have shown up, maybe some good figures too...  Case somehow wound up out there again Sunday.

This store has steadily been this way, all year long, and into last year pretty much.

The same, but more spread out in my trips to them, can be said for almost every other WM I hit...  That's 5 or 6 WM's I can think of off the top of my head by the way.  I hit all the others much more sporadically, but I'll stop in...  Stragglers from a case of Wave 4.  A week or two later I stop in, some Wave 5 are around.  And so on...  Sometimes I walk in a fresh case has been put out too.  I walk out with half the case myself even maybe, depending what's there.

These "1 per case" ratios make it really easy to basically miss an entire case of figures getting opened and put out, for sure.  WM's actually done really well on distribution it seems, despite the ROTS Clone messing up things.

If you took THAT figure out of the equation, I think things would be flowing like WM just ate Colon Blow for breakfast.  It wouldn't be one case here and there, it'd be multiple cases (assuming some other figure didn't just replace the ROTS Clone as the proverbial turd that won't flush).  That's not too shabby then, really... 

Target, K-Mart, and TRU need to fix themselves.  TRU needs to be more competitive, K-Mart just needs to order something (and being more competitive wouldn't kill them either, but they do run sales and have a rewards program that is actually valuable to consumers to some degree), and Target just needs to order stuff at this point.  WM's the only store that folks can cite where Hasbro has done something to screw the system, and it's that Clone basically.

Ideally, Hasbro would remove all ROTS Clones...  but he's in a case or two yet, so you're still not going to eliminate the figure I'm afraid.  Like I said, the perils of making assortments so far out without being able to change things late.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: TheSon on May 29, 2011, 11:11 AM
I think the availability of new cases varies from store to store. The two walmarts within 7 miles of my house have a very slow turnover rate and usually never get past the first couple of waves. I have to go about 20 miles to find the targets and walmarts that have turnover like you are describing. With the price of gas so high, along with spotty results at best, even at the good stores, It is pricing me out of weekly hunts very quickly. I am almost to the point where I will wait for the surplus to hit HTS and order from there. IF they ever make it that far.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on May 29, 2011, 05:41 PM
I think it varies too of course, nobody's stores are the same, and not even all the ones I visit are the same. 

But my stores are only getting a case in at a time (generally...  the next closest store actually just got at least 2 cases of Wave 6 fixer-upper assortment).  If your store is only getting one case in here and there, you're just as likely not seeing any of the figures they may get too, till nobody in your area is buying...  Sometimes I'm only aware a new case turned up because I see a repack that wasn't there before or something.  A "Vader" card Anakin turned up for instance, and it was either a return or a sign a new case was there.  It wasn't there last weekend though.

When figures are all 1 to a case though, it's pretty easy for a case to get wiped out by one guy these days.  I know I've bought full sets of figures, and left basically no distinct sign anything new was there.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 14, 2011, 09:57 PM
The latest round of Star Wars Q&A's are rolling back...  Check it out!

http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1308102828,85451, (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1308102828,85451,)

We asked:

-Deluxe Figure w/Vehicles are taking a new, cool turn with made-up stuff...  It's all Clone Wars though.  Any chance any of it may be from the OT?

-Cat's out of the bag on that Taun-Taun, and that it obviously seems designed for re-use in the future.  Would you redesign a Han Figure to ride it though, or re-use parts that exist and just add some new articulation to the legs or something?

Just reading around it seems Hasbro were pretty brief with their replies this series, which is a little disappointing.  :-\ 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 15, 2011, 12:03 AM
Wow, more great answers from Hasbro this round.   ::)

"We are continuing to explore including OTC vehicles in this segment."  Nothing on the idea of updating the Kenner mini-rigs, nothing on new just-off-screen inspired OT sets.  Just a nice vague, 'maybe we'll do OT someday'.   ::)

Also this answer from Yakface (http://yakfaceforums.com/main/2011/06/14/yakfacehasbro-qna-session-88/#more-2878), where Hasbro basically glosses over the RFT holster issue and focuses on "we couldn't get the staff in the package" even though they could have given him a bigger bubble (like the Gamorrean or Grievous).   ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 15, 2011, 01:13 AM
Yeah, Yakface's answer was maybe the gem of the round...

The main point was the holster, and they just said "f off" basically. 

Plus, ok, you focused like a laser on making him a Yavin Rebel...  but on the card he's on the Tantive IV fighting.  Uh...  ok.  Don't get me wrong, like the leg flares, hat, and price-scanner, but answer the f'n holster question.

The entire round was filled with very short answers that didn't delve into much, and barely (if at all) answered the question they were asked.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jayson on June 15, 2011, 03:26 AM
The QnA dept. seems to be getting lazier by the session. I'm half tempted to ask the holster question again. Next round.  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 15, 2011, 03:54 AM
Yeah, but you hate to!  I know that feeling all too well.

I like Hasbro's SW team, and I get that they're busy, but one story right below the SW Q&A on the front page is the GI Joe Q&A...  It was answered almost immediately first, but also, they let us ask 3 questions (they pick which they'll answer), and check out those answers.  Seriously, check them out.  They're really interesting.

A lot of good questions were asked...  A lot of the questions got glossed over with non-answers, half-answers, etc., and that sorta sucks.

I think they often give pretty decent repleis, but this round even I'm kind of rolling my eyes at it...  I mean, the holster was obviously what was being asked, and it was 100% ignored.  Our question on the OT Mini-Rigs was pretty specific, and it was ignored...  Hell, the question on the "riders" for the new Taun-Tauns was specific too.  The answers just seem really meh, from all around.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sybeck1 on June 15, 2011, 10:56 AM
I think non answers are industry wide. Diamond select was the same way with Star Trek before it imploded. A lot of gray and no black and white. Margins must be real tight in the toy business. I wonder how much a company had to spend for a Dengar that might spend years on the pegs, even as core fans got there fill of that great figure right away?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on June 15, 2011, 01:20 PM
I think non answers are industry wide. Diamond select was the same way with Star Trek before it imploded. A lot of gray and no black and white. Margins must be real tight in the toy business. I wonder how much a company had to spend for a Dengar that might spend years on the pegs, even as core fans got there fill of that great figure right away?

True dat.  I remember the POTF2 Dengar being a pegwarmer back in the day.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darth broem 2 on June 15, 2011, 09:25 PM
I think are just being vague because they want to reveal stuff at SDCC.  That is my theory anyway. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: warinthefloor on June 17, 2011, 12:14 PM
Have they answered any distrobution questions THIS time?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on June 17, 2011, 12:25 PM
It depends on what you mean by "answered".

If you mean "answered" with an answer that completely ignores the point, then yes, just like last round, they answered a few with the token "We appreciate the continued interest in Vintage and new product will continue to ship throughout the year."

If you mean "answered" with an answer that actually adresses the distribution issues, then no.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on June 17, 2011, 04:56 PM
Future Question Answered for 2012:
"We think battle packs are still a good value. 2 figures, 2 accessories, 2 stands, 2 cards and a brightly colored box!"

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on June 18, 2011, 12:24 AM
And Deluxe Figure with Vehicle is now just Figure with Cardboard backdrop for $17.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 22, 2011, 08:01 PM
New round of Q&A posted! :)

-Realistic Clone Wars Figures?  Would a guy like Cody or Rex maybe include his early and late war gear, to bridge the gap some?

-Han Bespin?  We love him.  But what awaits the scruffy one? (Shot down!  :'( )

The answers to these questions, well, not even all of them, and nothing more awaits you by checking out our Q&A this round!

http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1311379105,52245, (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1311379105,52245,)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on July 22, 2011, 10:30 PM
From over a year ago in the Collect All 92 Jawa thread (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=20537.0)

I don't know why they never made glowing eyes. How hard can it be to put an LED inside with a pipe going to the head?

I would love to see this for a future Jawa update--same goes for Artoo and Threepio, too.  Has LED technology gotten to the point yet where they could do something like that fairly cheaply, if they wanted, and without impacting the aesthetics and/or articulation of the figure too much?  Or is that just crazy talk?  I let my subscription to LED Technology Monthly lapse some time ago.

From today's Rebelscum Q & A (http://rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_95th_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_139694.asp)

Quote
Rebelscum: With many new action figures featuring "light-up" suits and accessories, would you consider putting this feature into the rumored upcoming 2-1B to make his torso light up? The body cavity has more than enough room for a battery compartment and still allows for the rest of him to be articulated. Also, would that open doors for a Jawa or C-3PO with light up eyes, or perhaps light-up sabers or blasters? PS a light up R2-D2 with the proper "light port" would be welcome as well, especially if it's not lit Orange!

Hasbro: We think you'll like what you see when we reveal the the 2012 Episode I 3.75" movie figure line later this year. The best and brightest designers and engineers here at Hasbro have thought long and hard about how to incorporate some light-up features into action figures without compromising the overall appearance of the figures.

If they're referring to the waves that were shown today, I'm not sure what light-up features would be possible in those figures unless they're talking about the lightsabers.

At any rate, cool news.  I'm looking forward to seeing what they're gonna do with this.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 22, 2011, 10:46 PM
Lighting those sabers would be insane.  I'm curious what that meant as well...  At the same time I don't want it to impact the figure much.  And I sure as hell don't want it to impact the price at all (I'm at my limit now).

If they can think up something innovative though, and non-obtrusive, I'm interested.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on July 22, 2011, 11:03 PM
From today's Rebelscum Q & A (http://rebelscum.com/story/front/Hasbros_95th_STAR_WARS_QA_The_Answers_139694.asp)

Quote
Hasbro: We think you'll like what you see when we reveal the the 2012 Episode I 3.75" movie figure line later this year.

If they're referring to the waves that were shown today, I'm not sure what light-up features would be possible in those figures unless they're talking about the lightsabers.

Makes me wonder...  what if they really are giving us a separate TPM movie figure line too? 

What if the stuff they showed us today was just the "TPM Vintage" stuff they were planning for vintage cards?  What if they are planning a whole line of "action feature" figures (light-up, action features, etc) for kids on those Maul cards that popped up and that's the stuff that will be shown at NYCC?    Maybe that's why there is no Vintage JarJar, Tatooin Anakin and C3PO - because they saved them for some sort of Maul card movie line?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 22, 2011, 11:11 PM
It could be really cool, or dismal, but I'm curious either way.

That's a good thought though...  I'd forgotten the Maul cards already.  :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on July 22, 2011, 11:19 PM
New Tech stuff with Episode 1 toys...CUZ COMM-TECH WORKED OUT SO WELL.  ;D

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on July 22, 2011, 11:40 PM
Reverting to our own Q&A, I really REALLY liked their answer on a realistic CW Cody...   :-X  I'd take the Clones if they're Fordo Style, for certain.

That'd be totally worth rebuying just about all the Clones I already have, actually.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on July 25, 2011, 09:47 PM
Not an official Q and A exactly, but Echo Base News has a nice interview up with Derryl DePriest, which offers some nice info.  You can check it out here:

http://echobasenews.com/interview-derryl-depriest.html (http://echobasenews.com/interview-derryl-depriest.html)

Sounds like next year's Maul is indeed the Evolutions version, and it is possible we might see that ESB Slave I in 2012.  More info at the linky.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: SnTrooper on July 25, 2011, 10:37 PM
Sounds like next year's Maul is indeed the Evolutions version
It is definitely not a repack. He must just mean it's based on the Evo one. Or he misunderstood and was talking about the Blu-ray pack.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 9, 2011, 11:00 PM
New Round of Q&A Posted...

-Cool you're running with a "mini-rig" series of original vehicle designs.  Any chance you're going to expand that to the classic films though, and new vehicles for the classic characters?

-We love Rebels, and you love Rebels, but we like Rebel variations...  Wanna put some out there for us, in some form or another?

Check It Out! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1312944769,93712,)  Don't be a baby.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on August 9, 2011, 11:35 PM
"the new designs will be original"

Great. I hate when new designs are unoriginal.  ;)

"Not currently planned"

Why plan much ahead when inevitably 30% of your new stuff gets pushed into the next year anyway?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on August 9, 2011, 11:58 PM
Pretty lackluster Q&A all the way around.  And I attribute that to some sites submitting such specific product ideas in their questions that there's almost no way that Hasbro would agree to or confirm these ideas.  Hasbro has established some fairly rudimentary parameters by which they operate, and if some of these sites would pay attention they would know which of these questions were such complete non-starters.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: User897 on August 10, 2011, 01:29 AM
All these "answers" are just solidifying what I've said long ago.  Hasbro is getting everything to focus on cartoon figures and can care less about TVC or the movies in general.  The pegs are 90% CW.  The mid-size vehicle assortment currently is all CW.  Aside from a TRU exclusive, all the small vehicles with figures are CW.

It really saddens this old fart.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 10, 2011, 01:58 AM
Eh, you never know...  They've said some realistic CW figures are going to happen.  Personally I think at some point it'll sway away from CW, especially with the cartoon itself having a finite lifespan.

Some of the questions gained something interesting, or whatnot.  Not much though.  It was a rougher round too, timing-wise, so that's surely had an impact on what was asked.

I was kind of pleased/disappointed to hear that the Deluxe line in its current sort of form with "original" ideas was going to last for a little while it seems.  At the same time, like you said U897, I'm a little bummed they're not considering any OT stuff, or even much design that doesn't focus on the cartoons.  I'd have loved to see some NEW designs that are for OT characters, but whatever.

And hey, at least they're receptive to Trooper variations in packs, which is a positive thought in their heads for the realistic crew.  Planting the seeds maybe helped get a new Speederbike that's supposed to be coming, or the AT-ST, or other items.  It doesn't hurt generally anyway, especially since some of the Rebel Army Building/Head Variation stuff is kind of a big deal right now.

Hasbro's going to milk CW while that toon is alive though, I think that's just inevitable.  When the toon goes away, I think they may drift away from producing for it too.  It's a weekly commercial for the toys more or less.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on August 10, 2011, 09:37 AM
When the toon goes away, I think they may drift away from producing for it too.  It's a weekly commercial for the toys more or less.

It's crazy to think that SW has been getting pretty consistent media support for 14+ years now... makes you wonder how much appetite there will be for it (on Hasbro's side and/or retail's side) once the movies/cartoons finally die out?  Unless LFL can get that live-action TV show up and running, it wouldn't surprise me if SW as a whole only gets 1-2 years past the cartoon's end and then Hasbro greatly reduces the line (or dumps it completely) to focus on the "get rich quick" summer movie schemes.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on August 10, 2011, 10:11 AM
Man...they must take turns with answering questions.  This week we got the short smarmy close to the vest guy instead of the verbose loose lipped nice guy :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on August 10, 2011, 02:33 PM
It's crazy to think that SW has been getting pretty consistent media support for 14+ years now... makes you wonder how much appetite there will be for it (on Hasbro's side and/or retail's side) once the movies/cartoons finally die out?  Unless LFL can get that live-action TV show up and running, it wouldn't surprise me if SW as a whole only gets 1-2 years past the cartoon's end and then Hasbro greatly reduces the line (or dumps it completely) to focus on the "get rich quick" summer movie schemes.

I think Lucasfilm will come up with some other media, they are, of course, more addicted to making money off of the Star Wars franchise than Hasbro.

Would not surprise me if the live action TV show turns into another CGI toon.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on August 10, 2011, 02:46 PM
The most noteworthy thing I have read so far in this round is Hasbro's confirmation that HTS WILL continue to carry single figure offerings and not just case assortments.

I don't know how to plan to manage that, but they need to put them all up at once, and not just the cases first.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on August 10, 2011, 03:03 PM
When the toon goes away, I think they may drift away from producing for it too.  It's a weekly commercial for the toys more or less.

It's crazy to think that SW has been getting pretty consistent media support for 14+ years now... makes you wonder how much appetite there will be for it (on Hasbro's side and/or retail's side) once the movies/cartoons finally die out?  Unless LFL can get that live-action TV show up and running, it wouldn't surprise me if SW as a whole only gets 1-2 years past the cartoon's end and then Hasbro greatly reduces the line (or dumps it completely) to focus on the "get rich quick" summer movie schemes.

I was thinking similarly, that if there isn't something there then the line's "life" is going to be short.  It almost has to be, especially if "collector interest" isn't there like it used to be...  which I don't believe it is where it was once.  Between the economy, people getting older, the cost of the line, I think it's really not something that would chug along like it used to in the "non-movie-years".

If the new show turns up, which I think it will because Lucas won't want to let the cash cow dry up, then I think it'll be ok in some form or another.

Video Games don't seem to support though...  It's going to be either a new TV show in some capacity, or new movies, or something bigger than a video game or other media.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Paul on August 10, 2011, 04:04 PM
Well if the 3-D craze takes off with TPM in February, aren't we looking at 5 more years at least of Movie Support?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on August 10, 2011, 04:33 PM
Well if the 3-D craze takes off with TPM in February, aren't we looking at 5 more years at least of Movie Support?

And doesn't that pretty much take us to the end of Hasbro's license?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediJman on August 10, 2011, 04:52 PM
I think any discussion regarding the end of Star Wars figures is ridiculous.  Even without movie support, off-cycle from the cartoon, and outside of major holidays, this line appears to sell through more product than almost anything else in the aisle.  Even with the crap distribution I'd bet that SW sales the last 6 months have surpassed Thor, Iron Man, Captain American, or Green Lantern figures.  I can certainly see a slow down in new releases and more limited production runs, but there's no way that we see an end to SW figure production within the next decade.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on August 10, 2011, 09:01 PM
It will be interesting to see where the line will be headed once the CW is over - that is if we don't see other media support.  I mean really, we haven't known Star Wars without some sort of current media (OT special editions, prequels, animation) for a long time now.  Sure, there were the "between" years, but this would be the first time in a long time without anything to look forward to.

I would also be surprised if something else wasn't lined up by then too.  Lucasfilm really seems solid with the "Star Wars is forever" thing, and there has already been rumors/confirmations of further animated series beyond Clone Wars (the Seth Green project, etc.).  Plus, the whole live action thing if/when that happens.

I think Adam at GH touched on something similar to this in his Q and A this week (regarding the SW line's longevity and collecting), and I've seen discussions lately about action figure lines in general as Mattel tries to drum up support for its DCU subscription service.  Action figure lines in general just aren't what they used to be - and most (movie lines) are the passing fad each summer/year with kids.  It is the collectors that keep the continued life these days I think, regardless of what they might hope or say.  I just don't see many kids stick with a property that long, particularly if there isn't media support.

I'd have a difficult time seeing Star Wars die off as a line too, but it could happen eventually.  Either that, or it could go to an online, collector-only type thing.  Hasbro has sounded resistant to that in past Q and A's I think, but a property like Star Wars could probably really thrive like that (again, in the event that it couldn't make it at retail).  Like it was mentioned, I would think we'd see a pretty good run through the 3D movies at least (which is near the end of the license, as of now), and beyond that we'll have to see.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jabba the Slug on August 11, 2011, 03:00 AM
I'd have a difficult time seeing Star Wars die off as a line too, but it could happen eventually.  Either that, or it could go to an online, collector-only type thing.  Hasbro has sounded resistant to that in past Q and A's I think, but a property like Star Wars could probably really thrive like that (again, in the event that it couldn't make it at retail).  Like it was mentioned, I would think we'd see a pretty good run through the 3D movies at least (which is near the end of the license, as of now), and beyond that we'll have to see.

I used to think that Hasbro would renew the license once it's expired, but I doubt it very much now. Too many problems in general - Hasbro v. Collectors, heavy distribution problems, rising costs, loss in interest... I mean, the list really does go on. If the TCW tv show goes past the expiration date, I could see Hasbro renewing it only as long as the show goes on. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sybeck1 on August 11, 2011, 09:21 AM
Maybe a reboot after Lucas dies, like they did with Star Trek. Recast with the disney channel regulars and make Justin Bieber the new Luke.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on August 11, 2011, 09:52 AM
Maybe a reboot after Lucas dies, like they did with Star Trek. Recast with the disney channel regulars and make Justin Bieber the new Luke.

Where's the vomit avatar?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on August 11, 2011, 11:21 AM
I can't see the line ending either, not for a long time.  As long as there's profit to be had by both Lucasfilm and Hasbro, the line will continue. 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: darth broem 2 on August 11, 2011, 11:13 PM
When Lucas decides to turn the live action series into another trilogy everything will be just fine  ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on August 12, 2011, 09:46 AM
It's definitely amazing to see how many movie toy lines come and go but SW keeps on chugging along.  And it continues to be a top earner.  This 2007 article from Forbes (http://www.forbes.com/2007/05/24/star-wars-revenues-tech-cx_ag_0524money.html) addresses the overall earnings of the films along with all of the merchandising, and 4 years ago it was in the $22 billion range.  So as long as it remains profitable for both Lucas Licensing and Hasbro, I think we're going to see the line continue.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on August 12, 2011, 06:57 PM
When Lucas decides to turn the live action series into another trilogy everything will be just fine  ;D

This is probably pretty close to the truth.

Eventually, and it probably won't be until near the end of this decade, Lucas will decide that more live-action Star Wars (movies or maybe even TV) is needed to truly keep the "Star Wars is Forever" thing going.

As horrible as it is to say, I think we're definitely in for more stuff once Lucas passes too. It's not like Lucasfilm is going to be like "oh well, no more Star Wars". Even if they just start to mine the EU and focus on the stuff that on a high-level he approved.

We could end up with a situation like what happened with Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - Roddenberry had passed on, but before he died, he had been in discussions about the possibility of doing a Trek show set on a space station, so the same could happen with Star Wars - ideas Lucas had bounced around in various discussions/meetings/etc... could be fleshed out and turned into movies.

A trilogy of movies based on The Force Unleashed games or one based on the KOTOR games would be easy and there is enough story in both of the two games released that a third movie could easily be written for either storyline that brings everything from the two games together in a satisfying conclusion. And either trilogy could still bare the name "George Lucas" since he was involved in the approval process of both storylines.

And if games aren't a good enough source, then do what Marvel is doing, mine the comics. Heck - release a super-realistic 3D animated feature that brings Shadows of the Empire to the big screen - almost like Star Wars: Episode 5.5.

As long as Star Wars makes money - whether that be movie ticket sales, TV ad-revenue, merchandising, or books/comics - Star Wars will keep going for a long time to come.

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on August 12, 2011, 07:49 PM
Why can't Lucas make something else? What happen to all those great ideas for movies he never made? What all we get from that is Willow and Howard the Duck?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on August 12, 2011, 09:16 PM
Why can't Lucas make something else? What happen to all those great ideas for movies he never made? What all we get from that is Willow and Howard the Duck?

Like Red Tails?   Check out the trailer (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1810095581/video/26098678).  George Lucas was Executive Producer and writer on this upcoming release
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on August 13, 2011, 12:24 AM
Why can't Lucas make something else? What happen to all those great ideas for movies he never made? What all we get from that is Willow and Howard the Duck?

You forgot the Radioland Murders.  ::)

Besides American Graffitti and MAYBE Willow, when is he going to get it that he is "The Star Wars guy" and stick with just that? And even then, he'd be best off coming up with story ideas and letting other individuals write the screenplays and direct the movies...

And since "Red Tails" is based on the Tuskegee Airmen, which is a great WWII story to tell, it's something that actually happened. So if someone else wrote the screenplay of this movie and someone else directed it, how much of the "story" could Lucas have actually come up with? I suppose he could have added that one of the Tuskegee Airmen was strong in The Force and destroyed Hitler's "Death Star" or something, but frankly, there are very few creative liberties you can take.

To me when he spends time on stuff like this, it's like when Michael Jordan went to play baseball. While the politically correct thing to do was wish him well and call him brave for trying his hand at another pro sport. Most people were really just thinking "huh?!?!?!" and as it turned out, their instincts were right.

I think it would have made more sense had he worked on Willow 2: The Revenge of  Cherlindrea's Brownies instead of working on Red Tails.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on August 13, 2011, 01:33 AM
When Lucas decides to turn the live action series into another trilogy everything will be just fine  ;D

I bet he'd sooner remake A NEW HOPE. It'll happen within ten years...it's inevitable....it is our destiny...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on August 13, 2011, 10:40 AM
I don't doubt that the stories in the OT and PT will be remade one day.  I'm pretty sure tha TCW has at least two more seasons, and then I bet they move into another era.  Either something very old, or something between E3 and E4.  Also, I think Filoni and staff has shown enough smarts that they could create something from scratch.  Some era that hasn't been done to death in EU.

Also, if the movie stories are ever redone, I'd love to see them animated like the CW.  Imagine ANH stretched out like in the radio drama...I think there's some cool very cool ideas that could easily keep SW alive and current for another 10 years.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on August 13, 2011, 02:11 PM
Its about time Lucasfilm made something besides Star Wars. Red Tails looks good but a little Speilbergish.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on August 13, 2011, 02:41 PM
And if games aren't a good enough source, then do what Marvel is doing, mine the comics. Heck - release a super-realistic 3D animated feature that brings Shadows of the Empire to the big screen - almost like Star Wars: Episode 5.5.

I'd LOVE for them to do this. Work with Bruce Timm the DC Animated Universe guys and make some animated features based on Shadows of the Empire, the Thrawn Trilogy, maybe Crimson Empire, etc. I'm sure they could even get the original actors to reprise their roles for voice overs.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jabba the Slug on August 17, 2011, 01:33 AM
I would love George Lucas for forever plus more if he made movies based off the Star Wars 'Legacy' comics, probably Dark Horse's finest Star Wars storyline to date, set 150 years after ROTJ...

Please, Mr. Lucas, PLEASE!! ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CloneAlpha on August 25, 2011, 12:49 PM
Maybe a reboot after Lucas dies, like they did with Star Trek. Recast with the disney channel regulars and make Justin Bieber the new Luke.

Where's the vomit avatar?

The sad part is that with Justin Bieber as Luke, the movie would probably do fantastic... think of all the teenage girls who'd show up screaming... and I'd be right there along with them screaming (but at the horror, oh the horror...)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 7, 2011, 11:58 PM
New Q&A's back.  Ours will get posted soon here.  I see JTA's got a complete breakdown of TVC numbering, and Sandtroopers noted that the exact change-over from vintage to a new packaging will be shown at NYCC.

Interesting news...  JTA's numbering breakdown listed a "Deleted Scene Rebel Trooper" which has my giddy meter high.  :)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 8, 2011, 12:20 AM
JTA's numbering breakdown listed a "Deleted Scene Rebel Trooper" which has my giddy meter high.  :)

Not to diddle your giddy meter... but isn't that probably just General Cracken?  :-\

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 8, 2011, 03:13 AM
D'oh Yeah, forgot about him.

Well, still giddy.  I'm glad General McCracken's getting a figure.  Forgotten about him though.   :-X
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 8, 2011, 03:25 AM
And with that, we've got our Q&A posted...

-We love Gunner Stations, and other similarly sized items that aren't big enough to really be a full vehicle or playset, but they're also too big to be a regular accessory...  What are their likelihood for future release?

-Big vehicles are great, but it seems like 2011's choice is less collector-friendly...  Are the viable choices running low for the toons, movies, or both, or neither?

Check out all that and nothing more in our latest Star Wars Q&A (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1315466489,20593,)!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on September 8, 2011, 07:35 AM
Interesting response:

Quote
There are still plenty of large vehicles to tackle, in both the animation as well as the 6 movies. While the Republic Attack Shuttle is smaller (and less expensive) than the previous vehicles, the tremendous 2-in-1 play features are geared to kids. We are not ready to reveal information about a big vehicle for 2012 but there are some great candidates from Episode I.

That was a thinly veiled hint if I ever saw one.  It looks like Episode I may very well be getting a large vehicle.  Just to run through the possibilities there:

RADIANT VII
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080408042924/starwars/images/thumb/6/6f/Consular-class_Space_Cruiser.JPG/536px-Consular-class_Space_Cruiser.JPG)


NABOO ROYAL STARSHIP
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20071230065230/starwars/images/thumb/a/af/Royalstarship.jpg/553px-Royalstarship.jpg)


MTT
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080409131722/starwars/images/e/e8/MTT_Transport.jpg)


SITH INFILTRATOR
(http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20081206050430/starwars/images/thumb/e/e1/Sithinfiltrator-NEGVV.jpg/341px-Sithinfiltrator-NEGVV.jpg)


Just through a process of elimination, I think we can cross the Radiant VII off the list.  It may be the first starship shown in the movie, but it's screen time is limited.  As for the others?  It's great fodder for discussion.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on September 8, 2011, 08:52 AM
if we are talking episode 1, which all indications at this point are showing that, I would say make the MTT.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on September 8, 2011, 09:05 AM
They're just gonna re-issue the Royal Starship with the same chrome paint job that the new Naboo Starfighter's getting.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Phrubruh on September 8, 2011, 09:55 AM
...and take away the electronics but it will cost just as much.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 8, 2011, 10:07 AM
I think you can rule out that Queen's Royal Naboo Starship based on a Q&A answer last time...

From a recent Q&A session at Imperial Shipyards (http://www.imperialshipyards.net/SMF/index.php?topic=192.msg115088#msg115088):

"Yes, Episode I in 3-D allows for a number of favorite vehicles to be added to the line.  Sadly, the Royal Starship and Emperor's Shuttle did not make the list.  But we think fans will be pleased with the line-up which includes a 100% newly tooled iconic vehicle.  We would be sharing too much information if we were to say that it is a yellow starfighter that rhymes with shampoo."

I agree with Nick's bottom two pics - I would think the leading candidates have to be a better scale version of the Sith Infiltrator (with launching sith speeder!) or the MTT since you could pack that with play features - pull out droid rack, fold out droid control center, hidden missiles, etc.

Unless of course they are talking about their new Naboo Starfighter as the "big" vehicle for next year...  :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt on September 8, 2011, 10:13 AM
Oh, snap.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on September 8, 2011, 11:15 AM
Hoth Luke confirmed for 2012 at Snowtroopers!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on September 8, 2011, 11:56 AM
Looking good for Princess Kneesa in 2012 too...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 8, 2011, 01:09 PM
Didn't Hasbro say something, somewhere recently, about the Battledroid's fold-up dealy getting some attention?  I could've sworn they were asked about it by somebody.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on September 8, 2011, 03:14 PM
Very glad to hear the Hoth Luke news.  And I was especially pleased to see Hasbro specifically cite the fact that this Hoth Luke would be articulated so that he could be posed on the upcoming tauntaun.  I'm also hoping to see some commentary from Hasbro about the Han Solo in the SEARCH FOR LUKE SKYWALKER battle pack along the same lines.  Will that new Han be tauntaun ready?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 8, 2011, 03:18 PM
It's got ball-jointed hips so I'm guessing it's Taun-Taun ready based on that...  Softgoods skirt as well.

Other than being blue, it seems good to go.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: warinthefloor on September 8, 2011, 03:20 PM
blue for lyfe
reprusent
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on September 8, 2011, 03:22 PM
Will that new Han be tauntaun ready?

From a recent Q&A session here at JD, which came out just before the "Search for Luke" set was revealed:
2) If we were to release a Taun-Taun for Han we would most likely update the figure to fit onto the creature. (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1308102828,85451,)

Like JJ said, the pics sure looked like bj-hips so it's a good bet that Han will fit on that Tauntaun just fine...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on September 8, 2011, 04:47 PM
Looking good for Princess Kneesa in 2012 too...

We will finally know where woklings come from.  ;D

Actually, I had the plush Kneesa from 83-84, I knew where they came from.  ;)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on September 23, 2011, 12:50 PM
Somebody needs to ask Hasbro  if they'll ever make the Gian Speeder, it being 10 years+ since TPM.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: warinthefloor on September 23, 2011, 01:50 PM
I would liek to see the bigger silver one thet they plan the palace raid standing beside, its more prominately featured than teh green one anyway
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 29, 2011, 11:31 AM
Didn't Hasbro say something, somewhere recently, about the Battledroid's fold-up dealy getting some attention?  I could've sworn they were asked about it by somebody.

Yeah...I guarantee it's the MTT, based on their nerdjaculation over the fold up feature of the droid.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 29, 2011, 02:03 PM
That or the little troop transport thingie they did (It was in ROTS too IIRC).  But an MTT would be interesting given the BMF style treatment.

$40 though, or under, and I'm thinking it'll be sad.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 29, 2011, 03:53 PM
It would be cool to have to MTT on one hand (or is it MMT? I'm too lazy to check right now). But on the other hand, you'd sort of be stuck buying like 40 of the new fold-up battledroid...at Vintage collection prices. Still, with the ****** plastic Hasbro uses for their battledroids, "folded up and hung on a series of hooks" may be the only practical pose you can get.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on September 29, 2011, 04:28 PM
I'd love to see a big MTT - if they do go about it, they absolutely have to find some way to compliment it with a droid army that is easy to acquire, and not too pricey.  Who knows how they'd go about that, but I don't see why they can't also use the "Movie Heroes" line with two Battle Droids in a single blister... and some sort of army building battle pack too.  Even a TRU exclusive - 8 of the new Battle Droid sculpt, 1 Destroyer Droid and a new Darth Maul for $49.99.... eh?  I'd bite.

On the other hand, knowing Hasbro we might get some sort of deluxe MTT mini rig that opens up a front hatch and on a rack it holds a grand total of one Battle Droid... how ridiculous would that look?   ;D
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on September 29, 2011, 04:49 PM
I love the larger vehicles (republic shuttle aside) but the MTT is a big turd and just kinda hovered for a minute.  Granted the army of droids inside was pretty nifty and I'd bet they'd outfit it with maybe half of them to start things off.  I'm sure if they did make one it'd follow that formula and be some kind of wonky playset and I guess that would be okay because other than the droid storage it really didn't/doesn't have much going for it.

Perhaps we'll see a few *hints* in the toon ?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 29, 2011, 05:07 PM
On the other hand, knowing Hasbro we might get some sort of deluxe MTT mini rig that opens up a front hatch and on a rack it holds a grand total of one Battle Droid... how ridiculous would that look?   ;D

"Wipe them out...all of them..."
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: The Stolen CCG License on September 29, 2011, 05:26 PM
I love the larger vehicles (republic shuttle aside) but the MTT is a big turd and just kinda hovered for a minute.  Granted the army of droids inside was pretty nifty and I'd bet they'd outfit it with maybe half of them to start things off.  I'm sure if they did make one it'd follow that formula and be some kind of wonky playset and I guess that would be okay because other than the droid storage it really didn't/doesn't have much going for it.

Perhaps we'll see a few *hints* in the toon ?

Yeah, a PAC type craft could turn out well in whatever passes for the starfighter assortment these days, but it could use a boost from the 'toon to give it a lot more recognition than it has now. 
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20050522083431/starwars/images/a/af/PAC.jpg)

I never once noticed the things watching TPM:
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090415123906/starwars/images/thumb/c/c9/PACs.JPG/830px-PACs.JPG)

Nor RotS:
(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20060924005853/starwars/images/9/94/Kash_PAC.JPG)

They only came to my own attention when lego made this excellent set last year:
(http://lh4.googleusercontent.com/public/SFgrXka1OQyEpHRcfRLNbvccEYH1ma4Hsyfl7TOI3Nwtp1XrzzDGDgS1DDJC3QnM6ba4JoLu8LLJV9e7okZd3S2B1G_U8N-zXtQr12Rioo0lYMjsNJYx-7TygU2PQC4cKE5-bbg1gniBmOxQ4tM8yQSoJMnQB-VX6PHT7s-rjuFaqqi-JSjOjQUf-smXga-jaqerIcxjWEdY8fu-Xiw53Teld8CO3loEDXm7gEulDm4cIbeLd2BGA2AglQQc8rr_lXlzM3hkhrmWqUs5XZMoaA)

Although, I guess they also had an earlier go at it during the E1 era:
(http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/public/Tjc9f1H_zbvRRFzRTfh9oGhHBUAvwzQLgGOGa5Eg2FYiv-p_Nis15_wXvJl7ccrYwrbICorVqoZbQmqjrc9Uu-apQn5nQHUb5FOqFJOPXaaf_A1tcrjD_GSr81KcFzMI9YoUBuB3PCpqXkEeobfjePdR-YI0l69xbDDlMMY4)





Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on September 29, 2011, 05:32 PM
Yeah they were like Higgins Boats in ROTS...  Blink and you miss it in TPM, but I could see it happening.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on September 29, 2011, 05:43 PM
This one too...I rather like the turd personally, twas a fun build and displays nicely (at least when I had it displayed)   :)

(http://www.1000steine.com/brickset/images/7662-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Mister Skeezler on September 30, 2011, 11:48 AM
Don't they have the MTT deploying droidekas in a deleted scene from TPM?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 22, 2011, 01:26 AM
So this was dropped on us today (I wasn't home, so apologies)...

Quote
Hello -


Thank you for your continued participation in Hasbro's Star Wars Q&A program. Hasbro understands that you've been waiting patiently for your outlet's responses from the team for this last round of the Q&A dating back to September 16, and it's appreciated. Following Hasbro's fun and exciting debut at New York Comic Con this past weekend, which included a successful Hasbro Star Wars panel, the team has decided to forgo the current Q&A round and focus on the next round.


Hasbro apologizes for the last-minute notification and hopes that you'll submit questions for the next round.

Late was bad enough...  Now you just basically are saying, "piss on it"?

I've enjoyed the Q&A process, but at this stage it's maybe a bit worn out.  Our questions really didn't get obstructed by what was revealed at NYCC since we knew that show was coming up.   We specifically tried avoiding it as a topic.  Now those questions will go unanswered for, well, really no good reason other than they just didn't feel like it.  :-\
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JesseVader08 on October 22, 2011, 02:11 AM
Wow.  That's weak.  ::)
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Diddly on October 22, 2011, 01:11 PM
Well if the questions had almost nothing to do with NYCC, I would hope a resubmission is in order. Might as well counter their middle finger with a middle finger of our own. :P

But I can't really say I'm surprised or upset... Q&A has been "down" for years now, and it's obvious Hasbro no longer cares about it based on their dodging questions (that answer where they ignored the question about the RFT's staff comes to mind) and delaying Q&As.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on October 22, 2011, 04:05 PM
We submitted new ones Thursday night...  Kind of moving on from what we asked, ultimately.  It is what it is to me...  Just simply disappointing.

There's a distinct disconnect with the Q&A process these days, I won't dispute that.

I think it could have merit, but it's got to be taken "more seriously", for lack of a better phrase.  To be honest I think it's owed somewhat.  All the sites that participate are simply free advertising work on the backs of volunteers that just like this stuff.

To be equally fair though, I think if you're abbrasive in your questions, you probably get what you deserve in response.  Certain topics, when answers don't meet expectations, have been met with some hostility. 

******** on the process overall like this though, is kind of frustrating, and admittedly some rounds have been incredibly weak with their responses, and obviously rushed/mishandled.  Why Q&A's are being submitted during a convention even is silly unto itself.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on October 22, 2011, 05:04 PM
Maybe they figured the Q&A they had at the figure forum was enough... since most were likely asked by people that run the forums anyway (I don't know the who's who of SW collecting sites outside of a few on here).

Sooo... in hindsight, we should have given our Q&A to Paul, speedermike or myself and we'd have avoided this headache.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on October 22, 2011, 06:38 PM
Q&A around the time of industry events where the Hasbro Star Wars team will be making presentations are tricky.  There are things they want to hold so they can reveal them at the event, and there are also plenty of questions that might be rendered pointless after said presentations.  It keeps the sites from looking a little foolish in the process.

In the grand scheme of things, Hasbro probably should not have scheduled sessions immediately around NY Comic Con.  That seems to be an error on their part.  But this sort of thing just makes them look bad.  Hopefully the next round of Q&A will be a bit more meaningful.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 11, 2011, 01:24 PM
The latest round of Hasbro Star Wars Q&A (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1321035765,78388,) has been posted!

-Will the re-released figures have cardback changes!?

-Will the Echo Base Trooper see the light of day again!?

All the answers to these questions and nothing else await you!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on November 11, 2011, 01:41 PM
1. GO AHEAD AND BUY FROM OVERSEAS. It's a long wait.

2. Tough cookies if you can't find them now.

Is there ever any good news from the responses?

Bummers at the Scummer:

Quote
There were never more than 5 deleted scene figures planned for the line. Luke, Leia, Lando, Rebel Pilot and Colonel Cracken.


Those hoping for the old woman Rebel Pilot can cry now. Ha.

Quote
At NYCC, you said there would only be 19 figures from The Clone Wars. Did you mean 19 new ones, or 19 overall, or have we just been misinformed? Will we be seeing more mini-rigs and battle packs next year if this is the case?

There are 19 total single carded Clone Wars animated figures planned for 2012. There are also 4 Clone Wars themed "mini-rig" figure & vehicle packs and 1 Clone Wars themed Battle pack planned for 2012.

 :(
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: stan on November 11, 2011, 02:18 PM
Jar Jar is confirmed over at Banthaskull coming at end of 2012 on Vintage Card!!!!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on November 11, 2011, 02:28 PM
Although we sort of heard it at NYCC, I'm still sort of surprised how slow the CW line looks to be next year.  I understand the movie push and everything - and honestly, I'm more interested in stuff from the movies anyways - but 19 figures for the whole year (and I don't think even half of those are new, are they?) is really a slow trickle.  I can understand keeping it out there to maintain the "footprint" (particularly with the show still airing for awhile), but it almost seems like it is on "hiatus" during the movie releases.  It makes you wonder if that will continue from here on out since there is a planned 3D release each year until 2018.

Disappointing news about the Echo Base Trooper not making a reappearance next year, although there is always hope for 2013 I guess.  I've only seen Wave 9 at retail once here locally, and I think that's only because I was there when they were stocked.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on November 11, 2011, 04:04 PM
I understand the movie push and everything - and honestly, I'm more interested in stuff from the movies anyways - but 19 figures for the whole year (and I don't think even half of those are new, are they?) is really a slow trickle. 

Yeah, I agree. For awhile it sounded like CW was Hasbro's bread and butter and Vintage was on the backburner because the former is targeted at kids, where as the latter is directed towards the older, collector types (us). Maybe they're thinking that now that these kids are hooked on CW, the parents will take them to TPM and convert them? Maybe, I don't know. But CW is going to airing next year as well and to not having much fresh product out there is puzzling. Just with this last arc on CW, there's a lot of interesting things there, plus with Maul returning (come on, we've gotta have a few Mauls, especially the token shirtless-one) there's a lot of material to choose from. I don't collect CW (just the bounty hunters), but I find it odd.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scott on November 11, 2011, 04:30 PM
Jar Jar is confirmed over at Banthaskull coming at end of 2012 on Vintage Card!!!!
Jar Jar was confirmed in a Q&A a while ago!!!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Matt_Fury on November 11, 2011, 06:48 PM
Jar Jar is confirmed over at Banthaskull coming at end of 2012 on Vintage Card!!!!
Jar Jar was confirmed in a Q&A a while ago!!!

I can't believe people are so excited over a Jar-Jar figure!
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on November 11, 2011, 11:15 PM
I think people are more excited about their "soothsaying".

I can't wait till Tarkin's confirmed!

Again.

However Matt, I have to say, I'm actually excited at Jar Jar's that aren't worthless.  There were so many, and getting one that has my minimum standard of articulation would be enough to make me happy.  Whatever card, no matter.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Greedo The Green Menace on November 11, 2011, 11:24 PM
Jar Jar is confirmed over at Banthaskull coming at end of 2012 on Vintage Card!!!!
Jar Jar was confirmed in a Q&A a while ago!!!

I can't believe people are so excited over a Jar-Jar figure!

It's one of the signs of the apocalypse. The world really is ending in 2012, the day Jar Jar is released.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JediMoses on November 12, 2011, 01:23 AM
I am having a really hard time understanding the Clone Wars scale back.  The line seems quite popular.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Ben on November 12, 2011, 04:16 AM
Maybe with the CW slowdown, they'll reship harder-to-find figures like Seripas, Chewbacca, and the armored Savage Opress. At least. this guy hopes so.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on November 12, 2011, 08:06 AM
Maybe with the CW slowdown, they'll reship harder-to-find figures like Seripas, Chewbacca, and the armored Savage Opress. At least. this guy hopes so.

No, they already blew that by deciding to re-release the Shirtless version rather than the one going for 80$ on eBay right now.  ::)

Chewbacca is being carried forward, but being that we already know 14 of the 19 figures for next year, they better not use ANY of those remaining five spots for repacks.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Captain Piet on November 12, 2011, 10:12 AM
Do we have a breakdown on the figures?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Pete_Fett on November 17, 2011, 08:36 AM
I'm sorry if this was covered, but did any of the sites ask about the whereabouts of all of the Fall 2011 WalMart exclusives? (deluxe sets, DVD 2-packs, "ultimate" Clone Wars gift set)?

And if so, what was the answer?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on November 17, 2011, 09:55 AM
I'm sorry if this was covered, but did any of the sites ask about the whereabouts of all of the Fall 2011 WalMart exclusives? (deluxe sets, DVD 2-packs, "ultimate" Clone Wars gift set)?

And if so, what was the answer?

No one asked about them this round I don't think, but JTA ran a pretty cool investigative report a week or two back that explored this very question.

Essentially, no one has any idea where these things are hiding, but they are not cancelled. Hasbro says they should be on the shelves already, based on some kind of "available by" date. Walmart does not have the UPC #'s for any of them in their computers yet though.

Obviously the things have been produced, packaged and shipped, but they're probably in that warehouse next to the Lost Ark of the Covenant.  ::)

Most speculation seems to be that these things were possibly held back by Walmart to be released closer to the holidays, but being that next week is Thanksgiving, it would be stupid of them to wait much longer, IMO.

I'm still wondering where the hell that Mando Attack Shuttle is.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 6, 2011, 01:41 PM
Another round of sound from Hasbro...

-Will you seriously be closing the book on the original CW Micro Series?  You know you want to do more as generic names! :P

-19 CW figures?  That seems...  sort of lame.

Find all the answers to this, and nothing else, right here! (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1323196546,65795,)

I'm not honestly shocked at either answer, just disappointed in #1...  #2, I kind of figured that was it, but at least that seals it.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 6, 2011, 02:21 PM
I liked Scum's answer on the Noghri/Wookiee pack...  I've really wanted to get that set.  It is probably the ONLY set I was really excited about back at the end of the line.  Of course, it's the set to get canned.  ::)

So now we are here with word they like it, it's not tooled, but they're gonna try getting it out.  That sounds promising.  I'm down for probably 3 of it anyway.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Sybeck1 on December 6, 2011, 02:58 PM
As a vintage only collector I am happy to know a better Jar Jar is coming.  Toy Fair can't come soon enough.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: iFett on December 6, 2011, 03:17 PM
(http://www.beatitsquid.info/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Fanboys-2009_14-300x169.png)

Seriously though - I'd dig a sa jar jar just for the heck of it.  Seems as though we've all accepted the PT dudes on vinty cards so why not..
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Scockery on December 6, 2011, 07:21 PM
Another site's Q&A says no Ackbar or Tarkin planned...sadly, that's not surprising.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 6, 2011, 07:48 PM
Well.  Shoot.

I get it, the heat is on the movie, so invest there.  It's too bad we won't see as much from the CW line, which let's face it, has been the engine of the brand for a few years now.  It's also been very fun, which the movie stuff simply isn't.  It's more work, or obligation sometimes, until something comes along like the Gammie Guard or Ponda Baba and you're amazed that you can be amazed.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: CHEWIE on December 6, 2011, 08:32 PM
Another site's Q&A says no Ackbar or Tarkin planned...sadly, that's not surprising.

You mean CW, right?  They hinted that the TVC Tarkin will be revealed maybe relatively soon...

Q2. Dear Hasbro , When are you going to finally put out Grand Moff Tarkin from A New Hope on a Vintage Card? That figure has been rumored to be on a vintage collection cardback for years since the vintage collection line started and we still haven’t gotten it yet. When can we expect to see its release and what accessories will he include? Will he be released in the 2012 Movie Heroes assortment as well? And since we’ve waited so long, how about an image of the carded figure?

A2. We agree that Grand Moff Tarkin is an excellent candidate for a carded Vintage Collection figure…expect more details at New York Toy Fair.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 6, 2011, 09:41 PM
Yeah, I think they meant CW.

I was thinking, 19 figures for CW, it just doesn't seem like it adds up.  Unless I'm missing something, since there are 12 figures in a case, the majority of the 2012 line will be available 1/30 and ship for the rest of the year.  More or less.  Aside from say 4 or 5 figures sometime in the fall most likely, the line will be awfully stagnant. 

Does that make sense?  Am I overthinking it?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on December 6, 2011, 10:33 PM
Yeah, it's weak sauce for sure. When they switched to the Shadows of the Darkside packaging back in 2010, 15 of the first 19 carded Clone Wars figures released were straight repacks. They always seem to frontload the line like this with a reset.

I could see them trawling out 14 figures for the first two waves of the year, and then 5 more figures in a separate wave to keep us all occupied from April-December.  ::)

Three whole waves for 2012...is this what the Mayans were talking about?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: speedermike on December 7, 2011, 07:47 PM
I think because CW is aimed at kids, that they don't really need to make many more figures.  Sure, I could think of dozens I'd like, but the kids want the clones, and heroes.  At this point, the line should be mostly profit with little development of new product.  It's a cash cow. 

But, my interest is much lower, while I still dig the show. 

Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on December 8, 2011, 09:09 AM
I think because CW is aimed at kids, that they don't really need to make many more figures.  Sure, I could think of dozens I'd like, but the kids want the clones, and heroes.  At this point, the line should be mostly profit with little development of new product.  It's a cash cow.   

That is certainly a valid viewpoint, and I'm sure Hasbro would concur, but I can't help but disagree.

I think kids enjoy variety just as much as collectors. There's tons of variety in the GI JOE line for example. You can't really simulate exciting play with just good guys, you need villains too.

If kids were only interested in core characters, then I would be picking through a sea of pegwarming Armored Savages and Seripas' while trying to find that elusive Anakin or Obi-Wan figure.

Obviously, that is not the case.

Typically in this line, the weird characters sell through pretty well. (Cato Parasitti notwithstanding) So who's buying them up? Apparently not collectors, according to Hasbro, because this is a line aimed only at kids.  ::)

I understand the need to repack core characters, but the whole argument for that is to increase profit margins in order to allocate increased funding for new tooling, character development, etc.

I think they need to strike a balance between the cash cow mentality and a more forward-thinking "let's reinvest to keep this line strong" mentality.

I hope I didn't offend anyone with my comments, there is a lot of rancor over this topic at otheR Sites I notice.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jeff on December 8, 2011, 09:48 AM
This all reminds me so much of 1999.

I'm sure all the old timers will remember how pissed everyone was when Hasbro basically confirmed there were only going to be ten new OT figures on the CommTech cards (and those 10 were like 70% resculpts) and the rest of the focus would be the "exciting" new movie stuff.  Then the year 2000 was even worse - only what, 3-4 new OT figures the whole year!

Once again a glut of unwanted TPM stuff is screwing over an existing fanbase, but this time it's CW not OT. :P
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Darby on December 8, 2011, 01:23 PM
You know, I was just thinking that.  Very similar circumstances.  And virtually the same products.  Hopefully the retil situation doesn't repeat...
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Brian on December 8, 2011, 02:12 PM
It does seem awfully similar to the '99 release.  As far as the CW line drought, I'm a bit surprised as well.  I mean, we did have this information initially, but it seems now it wasn't a misprint/quote/etc., and it is really surprising that there are so few figures coming from that line next year.  Even less "new" when we already know about the first couple waves for 2012.  I'm primarily a vintage collector, but do pick up CW stuff here and there too, and it really is a nice line and I'm surprised to see it getting so forgotten.

Even worse is that this is only the first of the "movie" years - and the least liked movie overall at that.  It could be an extended drought for the CW line, unless the TPM push really tanks like it did with the original release.  Then maybe they would change their strategy up a bit.  The Clone Wars line was once so hot, particularly in the first year+, so it is surprising that Hasbro would abandon it so much - unless it (1) really is losing its steam or (2) they are banking on repacks to put the line on cruise control for a bit.

It is funny, we aren't that far off from a time when the Q and A's kept telling us how Legacy was basically on life support, and the CW was selling like gangbusters.  Now vintage is getting more attention (although probably not as much as "Movie Heroes"), and CW is essentially getting put on the back burner.  It will be interesting to see how the line as a whole does next year - and if we're in for another post-TPM glut.  Let's hope not.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: P-Siddy on December 8, 2011, 03:45 PM
The thing that I'm wondering is if CW is only planned for a few more years and is getting pushed back due to the 3D movies, then is it going to be pushed back for five more years of movie-themed toys? I know they are trying to draw kids in with action features again but most of us care less about those and we laugh at the Saga and Sith figures that had those. I don't know. It's Hasbro's game, I guess.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Nicklab on December 8, 2011, 06:37 PM
When I look at the diminished number of Clone Wars animated figures that are scheduled for next year, it would leave ANYBODY wondering where this line is going.  But then I think back to this figure that was shown at NYCC:

(http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb135/nicklabatearthlinkdotnet/sw/NY%20COMIC%20CON%202011/DSC_0069.jpg)

Could this new movie-realistic CW Anakin Skywalker be the new direction of Clone Wars figures?  And could we see some kind of a consolidation of the Star Wars basic figure lines?  Given the way things appear to be selling, I think that may be a distinct possibility.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on December 8, 2011, 07:21 PM
I was sort of speculating that with some folks recently, that Clone Wars may be getting some realistics in an attempt to move away from animated completely and meld everything into one line (possibly looking at the line's eventual end with the cartoon's eventual end).  That's fine by me.

I will say though, I can't agree on the "secondary" characters selling well with Clone Wars...  I think, if anything, Hasbro's proven that they don't do well.

Embo, Cato Parasitti, Worm Loathsome, Adm. Yularren...  They all did poorly.  Embo was hard to find for about a month, then he's everywhere.  If it wasn't shorted at retail, it wasn't hard to find (IE: Jar Jar, or Onaka, etc.).  Right now Seripas is still relatively new, and hasn't exactly shipped in good quantity.  I've yet to EVER see one on the pegs, but I've also yet to see a glut of any of the last couple waves either.  Ship enough, and he'll pegwarm too.  Same with armored Savage, though I consider him a little more of a main guy since he has that whole Maul thing going on, and kids love Maul or anything Maul-Like it seems.  But still, Shirtless Savage...  Very easy to find at retail, and do kids really give a poop about him having a shirt or not?

If anything I think CW has shown that kids do NOT care about the lower level characters though, and that collectors don't support CW enough to warrant heavy investment in the more obscure.  Just my opinion though.

I think they still could do more figures for the line next year, as has been pointed out with just doing repaints and part swapping, and minor retooling.  Clones could just get new gear and I think they would still do ok.  Droids could get changes and not do too badly.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: JACKOFTRADZE on December 9, 2011, 02:24 PM
Man, if all future CW figures go realistic I would absolutley love that. They lost a lot of money with me because of the animated look. Having everything under 2 banners is the best thing they can do. (Movie Heroes/CW and Vintage). 3 lines was/has been overkill. It always goes back to basics with the tried and true realistic figures eventually.
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: McMetal on December 10, 2011, 01:01 PM
Well, for every collector whose money was left on the table because they decided to go animated, there is always someone like me who was ONLY attracted to this line in the first place because of the animated style.

This is the whole reason I am even on this website, or back into collecting at all. The animated styling brought me back. The animated figures actually look like the characters they are based on. I just like them better. I have no interest in realistic styled figures from an animated show anymore than most realistic collectors are interested in having animated figures made from the OT and PT movies. Just two different animals, we don't need some creepy abomination of a synthesis between the two.

I agree there should only be 2 lines. Vintage and Clone Wars.  ;D



 
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: shmashwitdaclub on March 1, 2012, 08:58 AM
Anyone know if these are these ever coming back?
Title: Re: Hasbro Q&A Sessions
Post by: Jesse James on March 1, 2012, 02:27 PM
No word.  They'll contact us when they're ready, if they ultimately do decide to get back to them.  Part of me thinks they're ready to can the idea, but then again I feel that way about every year anymore.