JediDefender.com Forums
Collectibles => Past Hasbro 3.75" Lines => Saga '02-'04 => Topic started by: Brian on July 18, 2003, 02:13 PM
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Hey guys, I just saw that these pictures were posted over at the RS forums...some amazing new figures here!
(http://slave3.hp.infoseek.co.jp/image/20030718-06.jpg)
(http://slave3.hp.infoseek.co.jp/image/20030718-07.jpg)
Any thoughts?
(by the way, credit goes to boba_jp from those forums for finding this....although I don't post over there anymore, I'm glad I take a look from time to time)
Just consolidating some threads ~ OCB
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Awesome!
Ayy Vida
Elan Sleazebagano
Hoth Rebel Soldier
Luke Skywalker Hoth Gear
R-3PO
Wampa
General Rieekan
C-3PO w/ Escape Pod
Drooling big time right now!
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And Jabba, that better be ROTJ Jabba though and not the craptacular ANH Jabba
And a new Obi-Wan!
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(http://www.snowtroopers.ca/forumicons/jaw-dropper.gif) :o (http://www.snowtroopers.ca/forumicons/jaw-dropper.gif) (http://www.snowtroopers.ca/images/faintthud.gif)
I have to go to the bank & get a loan. ;D (http://www.snowtroopers.ca/forumicons/Bolt.gif)
Way to cool! 8)
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This was posted over at Hasbro's site a little while ago, an explanation of the Jedi Points, as well as the announcement of "Theme" waves for 2004...Sounds great to me! Here's the link, as well as the text from the article (if that is ok to post here, if not, I am sorry).
http://www.hasbro.com/starwars/pl/page.headlines/id.949/dn/default.cfm
Article:
Jul 18, 2003
Republic News
Comic-Con Announcements
For those of you who aren’t attending Comic-Con this week, here is what we unveiled today at our presentation.
We are pleased to announce the creation of Jedi Master Points Auctions. Since 1999, you’ve been saving up your points, and we have finally come up with a way for you to use them. Scheduled for launch in September, Jedi Master Point Auctions will enable registered users of www.starwars.hasbro.com to use their Jedi Master Points as currency in a series of online auctions. We are still finalizing what will be auctioned on the site, but we will have hard-to-find items like Jorg Sacul, Toy Fair Darth Vader and the R2-D2 Astromech Droid. The promotion is scheduled to run for a three-month trial period. We will then evaluate the program for the future; however, this may be the only opportunity to ever use your Jedi Master Points, so don’t save them up for something in the future! The total number of auctions will also be limited, so bid early. As more details about the promotion are finalized, we will post on the website, so check back here.
The other major topic was a preview of our plans for 2004. Basic figures will be combined into one collection, and our goal is to release a new wave each month, with three to four new figures per wave. Each wave will have a theme, and the tentative themes for the first five waves were announced, as well as some examples of figures planned for each wave. The themes and some examples are as follows:
Wave 1 - Hoth
Luke Skywalker, Wampa Cave
Wave 2 - Tatooine
Luke Skywalker, ROTJ (previously shown on our website)
Wave 3 - Jabba’s Palace
Wave 4 - Battle of Yavin
Captain Antilles (Fans’ Choice #5)
General Dodonna (close runner up to Antilles)
Wave 5 - Star Destroyer
Dengar (with backpack)
Also announced was the introduction of a new assortment at the deluxe price point in 2004. This line was created to offer characters and accessories that are too large to fit in our basic figure line while remaining true to our 3 ¾" scale. There are seven figures in total, which will only be available in the Spring, and where possible, many of the figures will fit into one of the basic figure themes. Examples include the Wampa and a Jabba the Hutt figure that will be featured in an upcoming issue of Star Wars Insider.
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Making a new screen name....BRAVO HASBRO!
Well,maybe not...
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My brain is way past compacity today... :)
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Holy...
Wow.
An accurate and articulated Obi. Finally!
And I'm so happy that they've finally gone a consistent release pattern of themed waves. Rieeken looks great, a resculpt Luke Hoth is a pleasant surprise, and a new hoth rebel was needed, though his extreme stance is a little off-putting.
Best of all, it looks like we're returning to POTJ-era scuplting and emphasis on secondary and background characters.
Looks like 2004 is going to be a year of redemption for Hasbro. Those ALL look good.
J
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First off: ;D
This is great news. I wonder, though, do they mean there won't be any Clone Wars figures in 2004? Will there be any more Screen Scenes? Each wave has a theme, now. Great. With a theme like Hoth or Yavin, there's no room for PT figures, obviosuly; are they going to get their own themes? If so, this could work out great: the Arena, the Senate, Coruscant, Kamino, Naboo (handmaidens!) etc.
The Hoth wave looks like:
Basic: Luke, Rebel Soldier, R-3PO
Deluxe: Wampa (or is he a Screen Scene?), Rieekan
Imagine the possibilities here. This is exciting news, and it's clear that POTJ days are here again. And finally FINALLY! a great, neutral AOTC Obi Wan.
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Jedi Master Points Auction: Bad
2004 Theme Waves: Good
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WOW!!! :o
Hasbro seems to be going in the right direction. These figures, vehicles and screen scenes look awesome! I'm just hoping that I can find this stuff in a retail store by me. Can't find squat of the 2003 figures around here, but I have been lucky with the Clone Wars toys.
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Check out my front page story about the new fan club exclusive, "Santa Yoda"! 8)
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These all look excellent! I'll be picking them up if I can find them... ::)
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Speechless....in a good way. I'll have more to say over coffee tomorrow. :o :o :o
:o :o :o :o :o
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I've taken a look at all these new figures...
Wampa - Interesting, it's a bit "dirty" looking, but I'll buy it, of course. His hand falls off to display his wound, I think.
Reeikan - Great stuff, however lacking in articulation. I really like the transparent holo board. Definately buying.
C3PO w/ Pod - Pod isn't exactly scale, and I've got plenty of 3PO's... No thanks unless the pod is scale.
Jabba - I can't read whatever language that is, but the (#@$) might say (A New Hope) or (including Dias). I'm desperate for a ROTJ Jabba, but since I already built a dias I won't cry if it turns out to be a crappy ANH version.
Durge w/ Speeder Bike - (Yawn), speeder bike is interesting but I'm not really thrilled either other way about the charactor in general.
Clone Wars Mace Windu - I dunno about the flowing capes and the sculpted grin... Articulation seems to be similar to Eeth Koth's, which isn't a bad thing really. Probably won't buy any of the CW Jedi's.
Dignitaries - I like both of these guys, actually, I'll pick them both up.
Twi'lek stripper - the articulation is really visible, ouch. Nothing else to say, I dunno if I'll get this or not.
Obi-Wan the alcoholic - articulated knees, nice. I can see myself buying this, but I'll wait for more pictures. I already don't like the sculpted Jedi-Trick hand.
Sleazebaggo - Interesting, I like the look so far. I'll get it.
Hoth trooper - I'll get it, but it those wide legs look awfully like the same Hoth trooper we've had for a few years.
Hoth Luke - Very sweet so far, I love it. It'll match bases with the Wampa, by the way.
R3PO - Very nice to see this figure being made, and for once I think there is elbow articulation on a protocol droid. Not sure, but it sure looks like it. If not, oh well, I'll buy it anyway.
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i'm glad i was able to find these pix again..
anyway that clone trooper may hace a different speederbike.
but it sure as hell looks liek the armor comes off.
i noticed because of the black on the right arm.
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I hope I'm wrong, but doesn't it seem as though Ayy Vida is a repaint of Shakka from Watto's Box (http://www.rebelscum.com/ep1/EP1cswattosboxloose5.JPG)?
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I hope I'm wrong, but doesn't it seem as though Ayy Vida is a repaint of Shakka from Watto's Box (http://www.rebelscum.com/ep1/EP1cswattosboxloose5.JPG)?
I was actually wondering that as well. It could be. If so we'll hear some mighty negative comments.
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its just a crazy twi'lek anyway...
plus repaints are nearly expected of Hasbro...
i can't wait for Salacious Crumb to be a pack in again
::waves flag::
woo hoo
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Hasbro (http://www.starwars.hasbro.com)...
That's all I can say :o :o :o :o
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Some cool pics. These were released a while back from some Japanese magazine. These pics are alot clearer. I just wish the Hoth Trooper was not so similar to the POTF2 version. Also, whats up with the head sculpt on him?
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Thanks for the tip Jimmy...nothing new, just some great new pics, love Rieekan, Wampa and Luke! Looks like they announced another R2 ::)
C-3PO - Features an escape pod that can fit him and R2-D2 (sold separately). Available around the end of 2003/beginning of 2004.
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(http://www.hasbro.com/starwars/images/news/General-Rieekan_lg.jpg)
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(http://www.hasbro.com/starwars/images/news/Wampa-Luke_lg.jpg)
Amazing!
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True nothing new...
BUT I mean a ton better than some.. "take out your microscope to see" pics...
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Oh yeah...these are aweome, thanks for the scoop, Scoop ;)
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Sweet. I like em! 8)
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Nice to see some higher quality pics of these figures. I can't wait to (hopefully) find these. These are the types of figures that really keep me excited about the line, nice mix of OT, primary/secondary characters, great sculpts, and main characters with good articulation from the looks of it! Late this year and 2004 could be great time for us collectors :).
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I'll be buying them all! I hope that they show up around here.
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I am in hot, sweaty love with all of those figures. :o :o :o
Now this is Star Wars figure collecting. Not an action feature in sight. Dig that escape pod! These are what deluxe figures are all about. I think I need to go take a cold shower now...
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:Cartman's voice:Sweeeet
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(http://www.hasbro.com/starwars/images/news/Hoth-Trooper_lg.jpg)
"I'm so happy the Empire is about to crush us with the AT-AT's, it sure is a sunny day as well, I'm not too cold"
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OMG!He has a little blaster!Look!
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The Escape Pod would have better as a larger, closer-to-scale vehicle. (Jesse, back me up here.) I'd have been happier if the Threepio were a pack-in with - FINALLY - articulated knees. Oh well.
The rest look great. A good mix of new and old. I love that the bases are modular. Hasbro must have finally found that letter I sent to Kenner back in '81. ::)
Now get to work on that modular Death Star playset, you bastards!!!
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(http://www.hasbro.com/starwars/images/news/General-Rieekan_lg.jpg)
If some one is bold and daring, maybe they could place a light strip beneith that glass, and give it a glowing effect, fiber optics style.
Kevin
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did anyone notice ree-yees is a furby
http://www.hasbro.com/pl/page.viewproduct/product_id.11521/dn/starwars/default.cfm
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The Rebel Trooper looks very POTF2 Rebel Fleet Trooperish, like they let an Intern do it. His chest looks wider than the POTF2 Version...
But all that aside, I'll buy cases of him, so I guess I shouldn't complain too much.
And my only other complaint is that Luke seems to be leaning...why is everybody leaning lately? Is this Hasbro's new thing? Nobody stood up straight?
Oh well he looks awesome otherwise. I too am stoked by all these figures, so don't think this is a Complaint thread, just a begger trying to be a chooser.
The General is something I have wanted since the 80's, I always thought that Collar was cool.
I will agree that the Escape Pod rocks but a True-Scale one would have been even better.
I was about to abandon the modern figures for the vintage ones, but this may keep me in the modern stuff for a bit longer.
I am going to order "opener" cases from either EE or Newforce as soon as they list them. If anybody wants in let m know, we can settle up after they arrive.
Paul
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The Rebel Trooper falls prey once again to Hasbro's lack of decent army builder sculpt, articulation, and features...
My Hoth Rebel Soldier would have a removeable hat, pistol that fits in holster, and he'd be articulated A LOT more than what they gave him. Be nice to have a trooper you could actually put in multiple poses, from firing a rifle with 2 hands to standing at attention.
Army builders sell uber well, especially good ones... Why be cheap with them? :( I mean, they even have the option of sticking them in packs of 4 after the initial retail waves run out... Multiple head variants can breathe life into them at little cost... So why be so damn stingey on articulation and such?
A shame... Especially considering we now STILL could use a "good" Hoth rebel and Hoth Imperial trooper figure since we still don't have good poseable versions of these figures from one of the biggest action sequences of the original trilogy. :-\
Now, Riekean is great looking, as are those Club Patron figures. THOSE are nice. That Obi-Wan is the best Obi-Wan ever as far as I can tell... Damn nice figure!
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all ihave to say is my hoth dreams have come true.
all we need now is an ion cannon... haha
ok i lied, i have more to say..
Kit looks really cool, as before, shirtless or not.
Saesee tiin is pretty good too, i myself would have prefered non cloth...
but it doesn't look that bad. plus its so he can be a pilot... yay?
Rieekan looks totally awesome just as before, i'll have to get a few of them..
same for the hoth soldier and wampa.. they are amasing.
the twi'lek sucks tho... just a boring figure...
elan and obi go well together and i can't wait to lay hands on them, YAY
an well yeah its all totally kick ass.
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I think SW fatigue has finally settled in on me. I looked at these and thought "Wow, those are great" and then didn't give them a second thought. I found a slew of new figures at Target the other day and wasn't excited by my find at all. I realized none of these characters were particularly compelling and the only reason I wanted them was because they're SW.
Between the distribution debacle (I finally did get a case from Newforce, only to have it be mispacked - no Hoth Han) and the fact I've been collecting these ALL MY LIFE I think I'm a little worn out.
That said, some of these pieces are fantastic. Nightclub Obi Wan is probably the best Obi Wan ever, any scale, any trilogy. All the Hoth figures are amazing, except for the Trooper, who betrays the fact he was sculpted pre-POTJ too well. Like the Snowtrooper, he's not up to current standards. And he's way too happy.
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Overall I think that these figures are GREAT! I'm really impressed with the Wampa and NEW Hoth Luke. Those two just look awesome together and have to be among the best work Hasbro has done to date. Although the Hoth Trooper isn't perfect and could have been sculpted better, I'm not going to complain too much 'cause like I said earlier, overall the figures are great and a big step in the right direction for Hasbro. If these are any indication what's in store for us in 2004, it's going to be a wonderful year to be a collector... ;D :o ;D
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Unbelievable, that's what this stuff is. It's hilarious how Hasbro can do such a great job in non-movie years on their quality, and release a lot of pure junk in the movie years.
This is the kind of quality that myself, Landothescoundrel, Jedirhino, Dimetrodon, Darth Homer and others have been preaching for Hasbro to do for years. About time!!! Imagine if they would go all out like this all the time!
Let's enjoy this renewed quality by Hasbro while it lasts, because as we all know, when EPIII figures roll around, there is a good chance that Hasbro will go in the wrong direction(s) again.
And like Mister PL said, c'mon, make a modular Death Star now you bastards!!! ;)
:P
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*tossess two pennies on the table*
My two cents worth:
I think these figures have fantastic amounts of detail, playability, and potential. Dimetrodon and I were talking on the phone about how lukes little cloth thing behind his head should be hanging down, as in some pics it is, and some pics it isnt. He came to the conclusion he would staple a piece of cloth to lukes head lol.
Im digging Obi-Wan, and I may just get 2 of him, just to have an extra.
Im also digging the lack of action features. They are nice ONCE IN A WHILE.
*hint hint hasbro*
Kevin
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*tossess two pennies on the table*
He came to the conclusion he would staple a piece of cloth to lukes head lol.
*steals two pennies off of table*
Well i think the towel ag headgear thing should have been cloth anyway...
thats the time to use cloth goods and have no debate about it.
unlike the new CW Saesee, who isn't too bad himself in that category.
I do agree that some of the recent figures do looke pre POTJ or early POTJ style...
but if that be the case... it really does make me wonder what else has been made and locked away so far....
so far it seems to be the hoth trooper, snowtrooper, qui gon, and uhh... yeah who else could we get later?
hell, maybe even soem ewoks.. who knows.. or a hem dazon...
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I think some people are happy no matter what... plain and simple.
It gets pretty sickening hearing the constant b*tching and whining that some of the most minute details bring.
99% of what was shown in SDCC and WWC is amazing.
I mean I wonder why some people still collect til this day... 8 years into this now and no matter what people are not happy. I know if I dedicated this much time to something that I thought sucked for the most part I'd want someone to slap me and say wake up...
I mean Hasbro can not be perfect... find me one otger company that is... though most of what is on tap looks incredible. The Hoth trooper is not a bad figure... I mean he's a background character should we really worry that he doesn't have uber articulation, and he isn't the best looking figure we've ever seen??
I respect peoples opinions... but when that opinion is constant negativity it gets pretty ::) ::) ::)
If Hasbro just can not satisfy you then seriously... step back put the money back in your wallet... and go find something else to b*tch about.
They are far from perfect as I said (in many ways) but they could be a helluva a lot worse IMHO.
Kudos to Hasbro for what I've seen for the coming year...
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Jimmy... who are you talking to/about? Seems there's been overwhelming praise in this thread.
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I think SW fatigue has finally settled in on me. I looked at these and thought "Wow, those are great" and then didn't give them a second thought. I found a slew of new figures at Target the other day and wasn't excited by my find at all. I realized none of these characters were particularly compelling and the only reason I wanted them was because they're SW.
Between the distribution debacle (I finally did get a case from Newforce, only to have it be mispacked - no Hoth Han) and the fact I've been collecting these ALL MY LIFE I think I'm a little worn out.
That said, some of these pieces are fantastic. Nightclub Obi Wan is probably the best Obi Wan ever, any scale, any trilogy. All the Hoth figures are amazing, except for the Trooper, who betrays the fact he was sculpted pre-POTJ too well. Like the Snowtrooper, he's not up to current standards. And he's way too happy.
I think Jimmy was referring to you Spuffy. Note above quote is very negative.
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Should I really go through and find all the nit picking about every little itsy bitsy bit?
Though MJ did a good job in showing you a little bit...
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I was over at rebelscum real quick, and they had images from the Slide Show/Q&A presentation Hasbro put on, and there's a nice image of Jedi Luke due out next year...
Soft goods robe, a blaster, a sabre, and a "belt" (I couldn't see the belt being spoke of personally). It's shaping up to be a highlight figure for 2004 if you ask me though.
Also, check the "Jabba's Palace" wave... Who's the person listed for the basic line? Not a palace denizen's name that I'm familiar with... Anyone know who it is (IE: Scott, do you know because you always seem to know and have a photo to boot!!!)
Only Dengar listed on that "Destroyer" wave... I hope we get a new Piett though, or Needa, or the ever wished for Veers with removable armor, helmet, and hat. THAT would rock...
A new Bossk wouldn't bother me though either (Because Trandoshan's get all da ladies), and I would take a bridge crewman (Technician) with the long-brim grey kepi hat as well...
Yes, wishful thinking on ALL of that. Dengar's at least on the way, and rightfully so.
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I'm going to step in here (though this isn't my mod section) and say that the ever-present "complaining about people complaining" shall cease here and now. It's one of the things I was HAPPY to leave at Rebelscum, and it's something I do not wish to see carry over to here. I don't think the mods of this section will mind me voicing this opinion because I think they're going to agree with me.
This is a Star Wars collecting forum, and as such people are going to complain... EVERY figure may have some flaw to some person, and I personally do not like to see these people's opinions be trampled. If you cannot handle this stance then feel free to PM me or discuss it with one of the other mods but I doubt you find much of a difference in opinion here. We're here to talk Star Wars toys, and that includes the low opinions as much as the praise.
Nobody's voice is to be squelched simply because you disagree though. So try to keep that in mind when you're here at our forums.
If you like something, then great. If you don't, that's fine as well, but keep your discussion back and forth civil and RESPECTFUL (which is the key here).
Try to remember it's the complaints that got GOOD changes to this line for us as collectors.
Now, as for the Hoth Rebel Soldier figure and my opinion that it's the weakest figure and an overall disappointment...
Basically, yes I DO think it's a big deal... Is he a background character? Yes... Is he an army builder though, and thus should outsell a regular background character? Yes... And then should he be given a LITTLE better treatment with some articulation points so he can actually hold his rifle AND just stand around? I don't think that's too much to ask. Do background characters deserve second-hand treatment? Nope because he's still gonna cost full retail so I want a full/good figure be it secondary, primary, EU, or anything else.
Once again, I point to BBi and 21st Century as 2 companies that do quite a bit more "perfect" than Hasbro does. Sure, nobody's perfect (Neither are the aforementioned 2 companies), but Hasbro still has a ways to go before they're close across the entire Star Wars line. I can appreciate the nice Riekean figure or Hoth Luke, but the Hoth Rebel was more important to me and came up as a flat/bland figure with little improvement beyond his sculpt.
Tack onto all of that, that the Hoth Rebel really DID need a new/better figure and is likely to not see a resculpt again for a long time, not for a while anyway,(Army builders tend to only get one shot here and there) and I'd have appreciated a MUCH better figure right now.
Is it better than POTF2's 2 versions? Indeed, it's a better sculpt I think... It's still not what an army builder figure SHOULD or COULD be in this day and age of Hasbro. He could certainly have more articulation in the arms at least (Why no ball/socket shoulders and maybe bicep and wrist articulation so he could be posed any # of ways), and had some better features that would make you want to own an army of him.
As he stands now, an army of him will resemble the cookie-cutter syndrome that plagued POTF2. Articulation would've alleviated that, but it's for not I guess.
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The Jedi Luke does look awesome, can't wait until more detailed images pop up... The Star Destroyer wave does leave alot of possibilities for us to ponder. A new Dengar is great... I agree with you JJ, a new Piett and Capt. Needa would be welcome additions. (And I thought I was the only one who liked Bossk! ):o
Any thoughts on who will be included with the Battle of Yavin wave?
And I'll say it again, based on what we have seen already... 2004 is going to be an outstanding year to be a collector! ;D
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Well, I was at that press conference at the Wizard World Chicago, and the pictures of that ROTJ Luke Skywalker were quite awesome... something I can't wait to hit stores.
The figures that were listed on their slide for the Battle of Yavin are Captain Antilles (Fans' Choice #5 and General Dodonna (runner up to Antilles).
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Indeed! Trandoshans rock all, of course.
I know the Yavin wave included Dodonna and (Oddly enough) Antilles of the Fan Choice poll.
Hmmm, a new Rebel Fleet Trooper would be my ultimate pick! :) Of course...
But I'd take a Rebel Petty Officer, a new Luke Ceremony, a Rebel Fleet Technician, a New Biggs, a Generic Rebel Pilot, a Pops, Yavin Honor Guard, etc., etc., etc...
Unfortunately, lots of my ideas probably won't come to fruition I believe. :) Especially that first one... haha
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I'm hoping that they have some more Hoth Rebels in the working for the future... I do agree that the new Hoth Trooper is lacking in some respects as stated above, I 'm just wondering why they couldn't have made him like they made the saga Endor Trooper?
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As I said here...
I respect peoples opinions... but when that opinion is constant negativity it gets pretty ::) ::) ::)
and I stick to it...
I'm not saying my opinion is the only... but at times I'll bow out gracefully and leave my opinion to myself.
I see people complain about it all... from distribution, to scalpers, to the most minute details being left off by terrible Hasbro.
After a while it makes you wonder why people continue to support a line and company that is sooo horrible.
If you truly think army builders outsell any main character you are truly mistaken... and I mean that in the nicest way possible. They may sell to certain types of collectors but beyond that your average collector buys one and the casual collector will easily pass on them for a new Jedi Luke. That is a fact.
I can tell you this from personal experience and the fact I do some work for an online retailer that has by far more red Battle Droids right now than Throne Room Luke's... beyond the cases of Endor Soliders and countless other "army builders". Don't believe me though? Ask Hasbro...
Hasbro would almost certainly put more into any main screen character than background one. Companies such as BBI, 21st Century, etc apply such detail into their figures because well that's all they create... "army builders" (that's literally).
You mention Riekean being a nice figure though the Hoth Rebel being much more important... though remember in this case you are the minority. Most will say "OH cool another Hoth Rebel trooper"... and next line might be but I have three of him as is...
They will oogle over the Riekean because he's a figure that has never seen light... It's basic facts man...
I'm not trying to sound like some cocky *** but it's the truth.
As I said it just gets tired very quickly to see the constant but...
But the trooper is missing his this... but the shoulder pads are on upside down... but... but... but...
The day this hobby becomes something that I have to tear into about every single detail is the day I might as well toss my chips in...
It's toys... nothing more... nothing less...
I worry far more about the fact it's 2003 and still we have disease that we can not cure....
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Oops! I saw Capt. Antilles and Gen. Dodonna, I was just wondering who else would be included... Sorry...:-[
I would like to see some more background Rebels. Red Leader would be an awesome choice... And while I'm at it, Wasn't there supposed to be a Target accessory pack with the Rebel Technician? Was it cancelled?
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Hello?!? Hasn't anyone even noticed that included in the upcoming "Tatooine wave" aside from the previously announced Jedi Luke, will be R1-G4 and R2-D2 with Drink Tray?! SWEET!!! 8)
Sure we've had a lot of R2's, but many of us have been hoping for really what is the last possible variation with him, with is as the "Bartender" R2 onboard Jabba's Sail Barge. That's great!
Then, to get the R1-G4 too?! Wow. That's absolutely awesome, and a dream come true for the Purchase of the Droids diorama makers! Very nice to see Hasbro looking into some of these more obscure Original Trilogy characters again, after the previous movie based year. Looks like 2004 is going to be one of the best collecting years ever!
Bring it on!!! :-*
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I most definitely agree... :o
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We respect and tolerate EVERYONE'S opinions on Hasbro's product here at JD, so let's please not be knocking the folks that might still like to point out some of the shortcomings in Hasbro's otherwise great looking 2004 product line. Sure, a lot of it's beautiful, but there is always room for improvement, and it's the pros and cons discussion about the line that make it interesting for the majority of us. Please try to keep that in mind.
We've got some of the absolutely most nitpicky, perfectionist collectors in the online community here at JD (myself most definitely included), so you better believe that no matter how great a job Hasbro does on it's line, we'll still be nitpicking at the areas or figures that they could've done better on, while also pointing out where Hasbro has very much excelled too...
We don't want to see the complaining about complainers thing popping up here at JD, as was so prevelant at RS. It's a big part of the reason that a lot of us have moved over here. So lets all just try to respect eachother's opinions here. Thanks! :-*
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I'm not saying my opinion is the only... but at times I'll bow out gracefully and leave my opinion to myself.
I see people complain about it all... from distribution, to scalpers, to the most minute details being left off by terrible Hasbro.
After a while it makes you wonder why people continue to support a line and company that is sooo horrible.
And that is fine Jimmy, but when it comes to people's complaints it's not your duty to police the boards as to what is legitimate and what is not. It's also not your duty to dictate whether you feel people would, could, or should start a new hobby simply because what they say irritates you on some level.
Sometimes the complaints about distribution and whatnot get to be a bit much to me as well, but if someone cannot find something I do not blame him/her for their feelings and they're allowed to voice that.
If someone finds something and thinks it should've had a working holster, or some extra articulation, it's the same thing... They're entitled to that opinion, and nobody need be preaching to them anything to the contrary.
This isn't 100% directed at you alone, but EVERYONE here at JediDefender. Like I said, that's an attitude I hoped to leave at Rebelscum, and it's an attitude I will gladly nip in the bud here at JediDefender.
If you truly think army builders outsell any main character you are truly mistaken... and I mean that in the nicest way possible. They may sell to certain types of collectors but beyond that your average collector buys one and the casual collector will easily pass on them for a new Jedi Luke. That is a fact.
I can tell you this from personal experience and the fact I do some work for an online retailer that has by far more red Battle Droids right now than Throne Room Luke's... beyond the cases of Endor Soliders and countless other "army builders". Don't believe me though? Ask Hasbro...
And I would also like to take this moment to cease all "This is fact" talk, because unless you're putting in time with Hasbro and scouring their sales sheets, you do not know these to be "Fact" like you stress.
While I am sure you feel your work for an online retailer gives you some idea that you're an expert on toys, I think I've got an equal ammount of expertise from my research and studies on the toy industry overall.
Hasbro themselves have even said in the past that army builders do tend to sell fairly well, and see higher production runs, so what good would asking Hasbro be to your argument? The Jedi Luke just shipped... It's a figure I've yet to even see in a store. Of course it's going to sell out first right now.
It won't forever though... Not that I ever said that Army Builders even outsell main characters though. But they do sell more consistently to the core collectors... That's something where Main character (and secondary) lose steam eventually. Some army builders don't sell though, but if army builders truly were such poor sales, why would Hasbro make 4-packs of them, or 3-packs for the Clone Wars line? Your ideas of "facts" seem flawed, by Hasbro's own actions.
Hasbro would almost certainly put more into any main screen character than background one. Companies such as BBI, 21st Century, etc apply such detail into their figures because well that's all they create... "army builders" (that's literally).
So Hasbro should put MORE $/effort into a main character, but still charge you the same for a background character or army builder... Yet when other companies, who "just do army builders" as you put it, put the SAME effort into ALL their figures, they're somehow getting away with less work or effort?
I'm sorry, but that makes no real sense from a business standpoint, nor does it make sense from the consumers standpoint to say "Well I'm willing to accept less but pay the same price for this guy because he's a background character".
You mention Riekean being a nice figure though the Hoth Rebel being much more important... though remember in this case you are the minority. Most will say "OH cool another Hoth Rebel trooper"... and next line might be but I have three of him as is...
They will oogle over the Riekean because he's a figure that has never seen light... It's basic facts man...
Once again, these are NOT facts... Maybe in your mind and how you collect they are, but they're nothing more than your opinion on collecting Jimmy.
This is where the tolerance issue is being breached I think. You feel so strongly that you're right... To the point you speak as if you had sales sheets in front of you to back this up that Gen. Riekean is the figure EVERYONE wanted and the Hoth Rebel wasn't what anyone wanted.
That's fine, I understand you think differently on a collecting level than I do, but it's also where I (and others) say we wanted a NICE new Hoth Rebel Soldier, and we got something less than that...
Sure I'm excited about Riekean, but I would've loved a better Rebel Soldier first personally. You say I'm in the minority, I say army builders are a large part of the equation... You disagree with that, that's fine, but you're not an expert so please remember that your opinion is your own, and that you need to NOT trample other collector's thoughts around these boards.
I'm not doing this to be mean, but I was brought on here because of how I feel about collecting, and how I will not stand by while opinions are being trashed.
I would suggest people feeling this angry over complaints to heed some of their own advice. If you are upset by the words of others about toys to the point that you feel it necessary to vent about it, maybe it is YOU who needs to rethink collecting, and it's "worth" to you.
Like you said yourself Jimmy, they're just toys... Don't let what others think or say bother you. This is a site where we accept everyone's point of view on the toys, whether they agree or disagree, like or dislike... As such, talking down to people because you feel they "complain too much" will NOT be tolerated.
And like I said, feel free to take this up with me privately if you disagree, or to discuss it with one of the other administrators who I'm sure will respond to you as promptly as they can.
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What I like is this picture:
http://www.rebelscum.com/gallery/ww-chicago-hasbro/image27.asp
I wonder if they will ever make a figure with that name on the t-shirt! ;) ;D
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I'd buy it... ::)
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D'oh, good eye Matt.
I missed some of the slides because I wasn't browsing through all.
An R1 and drink tray R2? Hmmm... I wonder if R2 will have an opening panel with a sabre handle spot? That'd be pretty sweet I do believe.
That Luke is still the highlight of that to me... I can't wait for him!
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I'm really impressed with Luke. Jesse is right, he's the best thing I've seen so far for 2004 - and right after that impressive Hoth Luke, too. R1-G4 is a fantastic little surprise. R2 will be great and that alien listed in the Jabba wave is aka Rappertunie. Not sure why Luke and R2 are not in this wave as well. Hmm.
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Wow. :-\
Umm. So. Yeah. This is why I hardly post at RS anymore. I'm disappointed my post (which wasn't negative in the 'nitpicking' sense that Jimmy is talking about) apparently caused all this. I was simply voicing my general mellowing out on all things SW. I believe I praised a few of the figures in that same post. I will continue to voice my opinion whatever it may be.
Sorry if that doesn't work for some folks.
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Again...
I didn't say that your opinions meant nothing...
I think my point which was obviously missed completely is that no matter how good Hasbro can do someone will always have sonething bad to say...
If it wasn't the quality of their... it'd be their distribution.
If It wasn't their distribution... it' be something else...
JD might support the opinions of everyone... but I think it should also not support the consistent negativity that plaques the hobby.
If that makes me the bad guy... then point me to my crown.
I understand Hasbrp is far from perfect, I can agree w/ that any day of week. I could sit here and list a bunch of wrongs w/ them... but why...
Don't we hear that enough over at RS... and countless other boards/sites. Beyond the Hoth Rebel soldier Hasbro has shown 2004 is going to be an incredible year and one totally dedicated to us (the collectors).
Do we honestly expect Hasbro to be 100% perfect?
I don't care HOW long they have been doing this...
I think collectors think Hasbro owes them... They owe nothing. No one owes anyone a thing. I think that is the mindset in the word though.... not just this hobby.
I'm realistic enough to understand that in a literal sense no one owes me a thing...
AS for my "facts"... I can tell you beyond my "working for an online retailer" that core characters outsell builders.
I have had inside sources at Hasbro... and still know someone there (please don't take that as a machismo attempt... but one on a basis for my "facts"). I know somewhat of Hasbro's mindset at this point...
Again though someone will probably only point out "my" source rather than my "point"...
Army builders may sell more than some core characters in the long run... though that is if they continue to ship while as the core characer itself does not.
Hasbro will usually tuck builders into later cases for the army builder crowd... but I think w/out any "sales" reports we can agree that there are far less army builder collectors than there are.
There are probably more variation collectors to be honest...
Hasbro redid the He Man like RFT and added some great articulation (ala BBI), also making the sculpt much more realistic and still people were not happy. I mean that just makes me wonder again... Why bother?
My "negativity" may seem like the reason soooo man think I'm an *** but maybe it's hard being positive when everyone else is nit picking an upside down shoulder pad.
One question if JD supports all opinions... Why is that mine that points out all the constant whining and crying not a "healthy" one?
Is that just a tad bit hypocritical? Or is it just that feelings of someone get involved in it all??
Let's see what the answer is on this one...
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I'm not exactly sure who R1-G4 is. Does anyone have a pic?
Thanks in advance.
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(http://www.astromech.net/gallery/astromechs/images/R1.jpg)
While all of these need to be made...hell a wave of Sandcrawler droids to go with the Sandcrawler seems so ideal huh? R1 is the tall green one ;)
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He is Scott!
Which is very sweet.
I have seen a couple of customs done of this droid and I had an eyegasm then... I can't wait to see what Hasbro does.
What does everyone think of a line/wave of animated style Clone Wars figures as mentioned?
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One question if JD supports all opinions... Why is that mine that points out all the constant whining and crying not a "healthy" one?
Is that just a tad bit hypocritical? Or is it just that feelings of someone get involved in it all??
Let's see what the answer is on this one...
JD supports everyone's opinions on the SW stuff, not so much their opinions on other people's opinions. That's not a relevant subject to this board.
Let's just let this go now, and get back to discussing our thoughts - good, bad, or both - on Hasbro's new figures being shown this week. Thanks...
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So with the (Target exclusive) Sandcrawler coming with three exclusive figures, including at least a Jawa and RA droid (Death Star Droid) you've got to wonder who #3 in that lineup is going to be now that R1 has been announced as a standard carded figure. I think the next most important one who's yet to see the light of day is the orange, multi-legged Treadwell Droid. So hopefully that happens soon too!
What does everyone think of a line/wave of animated style Clone Wars figures as mentioned?
ANIMATED cartoon CW figures?! (http://www.jedidefender.com/yabbse/index.php?board=35;action=display;threadid=2270) ;)
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Some other notables not mentioned at CWW...
There are plans/talks of possibly up to at least four more TRU four packs. The fate of these will depend on sales of those out and forthcoming.
Also there are plans for some great sounding Screen Scenes such as a Jabba's alien that I mentioned earlier.
Ephant Mon is said to be coming again... though where he'll end up is really in the air at this point. As far as anything has been said it won't be on a single card again...
Hem Dazon is also said to be coming down the pike... as are a few other Cantina aliens...
As is the "benadable knees" 3-P0...
Once again the Cloud Car is on lists... and should come to fruition soon...
There is still the 3rd Dignitary that is looming... ;)
So there ya go... Believe it... or not...
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Hem Dazon is also said to be coming down the pike... as are a few other Cantina aliens...
As is the "benadable knees" 3-P0...
WOO HOO! Im gonna get me 2 of those...one to butcher for a custom, and one to...Let sit on my shelf...he he
Kevin
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Fingers crossed...R5-D4!
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Scott... R5-D4 is coming.
I had heard it was going to be single carded... but since the whole wave thing is going on I have a good feeling it'll be the third figure in the Sandcrawler.
We still have a lot going on so...
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Jimmy, could you make a list of what you heard so far? Its hard to follow so many of these postings. i think it goes like this:
Still rumoured
Hem Dazon
R5-D4
Sim Aloo
Just confirmed
R1-G4
R2 w/ serving tray
Rappertunnie
Cartoon CW figures (Boooo!)
Another question. Since Rappertunnie is probably too small to come carded alone, don't you think it may be possible that the Weequay that was listed on early lists could infact be a Weequay drummer?
You mentioned future Screen scenes like Jabbas Aliens, but I seemed to miss that post. What figures are rumoured for that set?
Anyone, feel free to add anyting that I may have left off to this list.
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The Weequay I believe is still being mentioned... though when I asked which version that was not quite settled on.
The Jabba Screen Scene was/said to possibly (by that I mean if it does see light) include Ephant and Hermie.
As for other inclusions nothing beyond that...
Though as I have mentioned in the past the Weequay, Bib Fortuna, Bubo have all been on internal lists at some point. So to say that any or all of them could be included could be true.
However one of the four pack possiblities is also a Jabba themed version... So again any or all of the figures mentioned above could go that way...
From what I gather Hasbro is watching sales on both the four packs and Screen Scenes. Thus leaving an open door for some future product.
I had also mentioned the Ewoks, the 3-P0 w/ bendable knees (ala Ewok 3-P0)... which from all I have heard is still looking as a go. That of course could go w/ the wave thing Hasbro is doing next year thus making a possibly Endor wave? Remember we have only heard of five waves so far and they promise us one a month...
Things are really in the air and as Hasbro watches the market more closely over the next few months we'll know a bit more where things will land.
I know Ephant is said to be released again, but as I said not in a single carded. Hasbro understands there is still a demand and I truly believe will react to that.
From all I hear the Hem and R5-D4 are on tap... So I feel safe at saying we'll see those.
Again Hasbro changes things around more often than some think... I mean take the Jabba w/ dais for instance...
It's tough to get info early some times and mention it because of the changes that can happen... I figure I take my risk and run w/ it... I am very confident w/ the friend I have there and don't worry about the what if's...
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Thanks, OCB. Can't wait for that figure.
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Great news Jimmy. Thanks!
Jabbas Palace 4 pack: I hope it consist of 4 totally new kit bashed figures.
Hasbro could do the palace version of:
Ishi Tibb
Duro
the droid that is similar to 8D8
red suited Ugnaught
Please answer this. Why does everyone believe that the C3PO w/ pod will come in the Yavin Wave? I'm just curious. C3PO landed on Tatooine. I'd think it would be in the Tatooine wave. Has it been confirmed for the Yavin wave or is that just were people are assuming it will fit?
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Far as I'm aware 3-P0 will be in the Tatooine wave as a deluxe there.
That wave is kind of weird... it has a mix of characters from both ANH and Return... but I guess the Tatooine theme ties it all together.
The deluxe in the Yavin hasn't been mentioned yet...
Though watch for something w/ Dodonna from what I have heard...
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Please answer this. Why does everyone believe that the C3PO w/ pod will come in the Yavin Wave? I'm just curious. C3PO landed on Tatooine. I'd think it would be in the Tatooine wave. Has it been confirmed for the Yavin wave or is that just were people are assuming it will fit?
From what I have read, C-3PO is from the Tatooine wave...
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I remember we had this same discussion at Rebelscum last spring Jimmy during the whole Hoth Han love fest. I'm with Jesse on all that he has said.
I think where you do have a point is people buying figures they deem to be pointless and worthless (unless they are completists)...that sends the wrong message to everyone.
It is hard to be so passionate about something sometimes, you get so geeked up about something and when the end result doesn't live up to surreal expectations the worse part of you comes out in unexpected ways sometimes.
I love the look of all of this stuff, 3PO is disappointing to me, could have been a tad bit better but oh well, I can leave it on the peg if on final inspection I deem that to be the case and I would hope others do the same in the same situation
Your points do have a lot of merit in that respect its just some tough love for those people I guess
And I'll also add...I too am starting to feel a big case of indifference to everything I see, even stuff that is absolutely amazing as this product is...not sure why, might be that 26 years of Star Wars is enough, maybe it is all of the negativity of everything going around in our community right now, maybe it is the fact that 10 new action figures to go with the 1000+ I already have isn't as exciting as when I only had 100.
What I don't want here is people being pissed at each other or not posting I think both sides have merit and is something that really has been beat to death...let's move along and think of something better to argue about why like they didn't make the Hoth Trooper be Cliffy Claven :-*
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I hope you aren't toying with my on that one Jimmy...If Dodonna is deluxe, that means my #1 Accessory might be coming too...the Yavin Tactical Display Table
I would guess the other one would be the Trench Run Projector
(http://wso.williams.edu/~rfoxwell/starwars/pics/Briefing.jpg)
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Scott do I toy??
Most people that know me well know that I don't make stuff even though I have been claimed to do just that...
What's funny is many things I have mentioned have come to fruition or ready to...
I mean do you think I'd have pulled the Passel Argente out my... way back in February? That'd be a figure I think Hasbro would've waited much longer on... but... guess I'd have been a wrong man on that.
I don't know the specifics on the Dodonna but have heard is a likely candidate for the deluxe treatment.
As I hear more I report more... I promise I'll try to not pull stuff out my... anymore ::) ::) ::)
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Not saying you do toy Jimmy, just warning you not to toy about my toys :-*
All of your stuff is greatly appreciated and we welcome it here very much sir ;)
Now...
[jedimindtrick]You will let them know of the huge demand for Ice Cream Maker Guy[/jedimindtrick]
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All of your stuff is greatly appreciated and we welcome it here very much sir
I know ya's do ;)
Actually it's funny but Big H knows the petition and cult following of good ol' ICMG...
I don't think we'll see it soon-ish but someday...
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I am SO excited to hear about the R1-G4, Bartender R2 and Rappertunie figures! Those are some great choices for us "collectors", and bode very well for what type of figures we'll be seeing over the remaining year and a half leading up to Episode 3's release. The more background OT figures, the better! Can't wait for my Hem Dazon either! He's always been a "no brainer", just a question of when!
Better start updating those "want lists" everybody! 8)
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These upcoming offerings are just beautiful. I'm ecstatic beyond words to finally see the overdue return to the POTJ line focused on "non-kids" for a change. The background characters and focus on the classic trilogy is going to make collecting a whole lot more fun in the year or two to come!
I'll agree though that I would've loved a more definitive, neutral, and articulated Hoth Rebel Soldier for some serious army building, and I'm not sure if I'm super thrilled to have Rieekan's arm/hand/fingers stuck in that pointing pose, but he's still great. His tactical board is one of the best accessories ever! Hopefully Dodonna will get a similar version as well!
R-3PO has long been on my wishlist, despite the fact that it's easily customized and the Luke/Wampa set is just awesome! Truly brilliant work with the interlocking set pieces there to re-create one of the more exciting moments in the trilogy.
I just can't wait to see the rest of the announcements on the remaining figures from all these waves. Some more GREAT stuff is in store, for sure! Just enjoy the next year and a half everybody, since we might not ever have it this good again!
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Regarding the differences of opinion...
I think it's good to have opposing opinions. It's healthy for the overall state of the hobby. Not staying satisfied is how things continue to get better. It leads to progress.
But, in the same regard, good things should be given their due props. There are plenty of new items that were shown this weekend in Chicago that looked flat-out awesome! Like? The Wampa and Luke. R-3PO. The Dignitaries. Bail Organa. C-3PO and Escape Pod. The Outlander Nightclub figures. And even the Hoth Rebel Trooper. These all look really nice, and I count myself fortunate for having been able to see them this past weekend in person.
Is there room for improvement? Sure! Do different people have varying expectations of what the line should be? Of course. But let's also give things their due credit when they meet or exceed expectations.
In this day and age, and with the current high quality of toys in general, we should all have high expectations for the Star Wars toy line. However, we also need to bear in mind that not everything will be perfect. Not everything will be precisely as we would make it ourselves. And if you are ultimately unhappy with any product, simply don't buy it. the almighty dollar is a powerful little guy. All those little George's, Abe's, Alex's and Andrew's count quite a bit. And if you continue to be expressly unhappy and continue to buy products that you argue are inferior, well, the strength of your arguments are diminshed. But it still remains that opposing opinions are a good thing.
Now...can we all please just get along? ;D
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Now...can we all please just get along? ;D
I second that! 8)
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Amen... :o
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I am happy with a bunch of new OT background characters for next year. So far new ones are:
Jabba The Hutt
General Riekaan
R-3PO
General Dodonna
Captain Antilles
Possibly 3 dignitaries (2 for certain)
R1-G4
Rappertunie (sp?)
R2-D2 - Drink Tray
Kitik Keedkak - Hopefully (crosses fingers)
Hopefully the Sandcrawler will have at least 1 new figure.
Hope we get these from that one list from last year.
General Madine
Weequay
Chief Chirpa
Cloud Car Pilot
Leia - Bespin Gown
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Well I for one am excited about 2004. We are finally getting some figures that have been on the wishlists for quite awhile like Riekaan, Dodonna, Jabba, etc. I was not sure if we ever would get R1-G4 abd Rappertunie. I just hope Hasbro keeps them coming.
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2004 looks great.
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So, now I have a somewhat related question...
What should I do with my custom R-3PO? Should I retire him to my plastic figure cases? Or some sort of droid factory diorama? Perhaps Palpatine's apartment from EPISODE I (there was a red Protocol droid that didn't get any screen time named TC-6)?
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LOL, I have the same dilemma Nick, not sure, I have a custom K-3PO and R4-I9 as well that are still floating around my collection. I say just throw 'em into another scene and say they were just off camera ;)
(http://red6.home.insightbb.com/Aliens/Droids/TC-6.jpg)
Or you could dirty him up a little and throw him into EpI stuff, although I think TC-6 was cut or else seen in the background of the Senate???
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Well, I'm thinking about the TC-6 route. Although, my custom R-3PO has black highlight paint. TC-6 had gold highlight paint around some of the detail areas. Drat, I hate doing fine detail painting!
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One thing going back several posts that I wanted to offer for Jesse James' attention...
Jimmy is right about a certain point: core characters DO sell better than background characters and army builders. I have some data to back this up.
In the case of Toys R Us, and the NY metropolitan area (quite a high sales area): when the SAGA line debuted, Toys R Us had orders in for roughly 200,000 pieces (figures) of Collection 1. The orders for Collection 2 were roughly half that, at about 100,000 pieces. Core characters, as most know, were almost exclusively in Collection 1 (with some army builders in the mix here, like Clone Troopers & Destroyer Droids), while several army builders (Geonosian Warrior, Endor Rebel Soldier, Royal Guard, Battle Droid, Super Battle Droid, Imperial Officer, Rebel Trooper, etc) were in Collection 2.
By 2002's end, Toys R Us in the NY metro area had sold through most of their Collection 1 stock, while Collection 2 did not sell as well. One store in particular had only about 100 pieces of Collection 1 left, while it still had some 1,500 pieces of Collection 2.
In summary, the general public IS buying Star Wars during a movie year. Especially core characters. Moms and Dads are buying their kids Star Wars toys, and most often it will be the most recognizable characters. Those are core characters. While we as collectors have certain demands of the Star Wars toy lines, the general public has their own criteria when buying figures. And in my own experience, nine times out of ten when I was looking through dump bins, circa mid 2002 for new figures, parents and their kids were looking for core characters.
I do not mean for this post to stir the pot. Rather, I wanted to offer the information since it is pertinant to the discussion. that Jimmy and Jesse James were conducting.
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Hopefully the Sandcrawler will have at least 1 new figure.
Hope we get these from that one list from last year.
General Madine
Weequay
Chief Chirpa
Cloud Car Pilot
Leia - Bespin Gown
All the figures that were announced so far are cool with me. Other characters names that I want that have been tossed around are:
Hermi Odle
Hem Dazon
R5-D4 its gotta come with the Sandcrawler
CZ-1
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Hopefully the Sandcrawler will have at least 1 new figure.
Hope we get these from that one list from last year.
General Madine
Weequay
Chief Chirpa
Cloud Car Pilot
Leia - Bespin Gown
From what I have been told these figures are still popping up on some internal lists. When they'll come out is the question... but I'd feel safe on betting we'll see these sooner rather than later.
I think a few things hang in the balance and Hasbro will watch over the market the next coming months more than ever...
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For clarity here, I'm gonna quote what I posted in the first place, which like I said, had nothing to do with me saying Army Builders outsell Core Characters...
I said...
Is he an army builder though, and thus should outsell a regular background character? Yes...
So should an Army Builder like the Hoth Rebel outsell a Cantina patron, or droid? Yes... That's what I said, so hopefully this is clear to those who misread, or didn't read my posts now.
In the case of Toys R Us, and the NY metropolitan area (quite a high sales area): when the SAGA line debuted, Toys R Us had orders in for roughly 200,000 pieces (figures) of Collection 1. The orders for Collection 2 were roughly half that, at about 100,000 pieces. Core characters, as most know, were almost exclusively in Collection 1 (with some army builders in the mix here, like Clone Troopers & Destroyer Droids), while several army builders (Geonosian Warrior, Endor Rebel Soldier, Royal Guard, Battle Droid, Super Battle Droid, Imperial Officer, Rebel Trooper, etc) were in Collection 2.
As for this, that seems iffy as far as the validity of the #'s if you ask me. I'm not saying you're wrong, but I don't exactly know you're right either.
Either way though, we're talking about something that's not really even relative to what was being discussed. The issue was, does the Hoth Rebel deserve as much articulation and attention as any other figure, which I feel all figures deserve the same ammount of attention personally.
As for how well army builders sold in 2002/early '03, I personally cannot find a 2002 army builder much at all anymore. It's mostly main characters left over (And mostly April 23rd junk) or some background characters like Lott Dodd, or some other boring secondary character.
SBD's, Clone Troopers, Geonosians, Battledroids (red or tan), etc... They all are gone from my local stores. That's just the Pittsburgh area of course, I don't travel all over the country anymore, and each area is different, but that's what I'm personally seeing.
And once again, nothing's fact till one sees actually #'s... Hasbro themselves have said in the past that they recognize the market for army builder figures, and that they indeed DO sell well. I'm not saying that, they have... It's why they remixed army builders multiple times in POTJ's run, why they made the e-tailer 4-packs, why they made the Clone Wars 3-packs, and it's why they're still cranking out an army builder here and there from the classic trilogy.
Like I said though, different markets during that one year window when you have a movie too, and the 3 years when you have downtime.
Jimmy said that NO army builder outsells any core character (I believe that's near exactly what he said, I lost that page it was on), but I personally don't agree with that... I think the Commtech Stormtrooper has outsold MANY core characters... I think quite a few other army builders have outsold different core characters as well.
It's pretty specific information, and nobody here can give a TRUE answer. It's just what you think, but I believe the POTJ Imp. Officer can and would outsell say the Commtech Han Solo... I think the Imp. Officer may already have outsold him actually. But nobody can back that up so it's a moot point really.
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Around here at least (Iowa) it varies. Some army builders are extremely popular (POTJ Scout Trooper being the most memorable) while others like the bearded Endor Soldier or the Destroyer Droid or the POTJ Bespin Guard were less so. This year core characters don't last on pegs, unless its Jango Fett, and even the repack KE version out now seems to be moving too.
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In the case of Toys R Us, and the NY metropolitan area (quite a high sales area): when the SAGA line debuted, Toys R Us had orders in for roughly 200,000 pieces (figures) of Collection 1. The orders for Collection 2 were roughly half that, at about 100,000 pieces. Core characters, as most know, were almost exclusively in Collection 1 (with some army builders in the mix here, like Clone Troopers & Destroyer Droids), while several army builders (Geonosian Warrior, Endor Rebel Soldier, Royal Guard, Battle Droid, Super Battle Droid, Imperial Officer, Rebel Trooper, etc) were in Collection 2.
As for this, that seems iffy as far as the validity of the #'s if you ask me. I'm not saying you're wrong, but I don't exactly know you're right either.
I can tell you how I viewed this information, JJ. It was straight from TRU's computer system shortly before the April 23rd release date.
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That's cool Nick... I wasn't really disbelieving you, just the #'s seem awfully rounded, which is sort of strange even though ordering takes place in round #'s generally. Of course, I'm sure those #'s changed after the initial release plus what was ultimately sent back as well, so they weren't that round ultimately I guess, haha.
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I did round the numbers, since it was some odd multiple of twelve (12 figures per case). But the basic numbers were roughly 200K Collection 1, and 100K Collection 2. I saw it in the computer. It's the ratio of Collection 1 to Collection 2 that's more relevant.
As for the year end inventory, it was from a high-sales TRU. In fact, the store was in the top 7 in sales in the northeast. And with greater sales, it's easier to see trends develop.
I can't cite individual sales numbers for specific figures since TRU's records are based more on a Collection SKN # than figure by figure. However, there are still 2002 figures that would be considered army builders that still linger on the pegs.
The situation regarding army builders is something that's got to be taken on a case by case basis, rather than categorically. Some army builders sell very well. Others do not. Blanket statements as well as blanket concepts don't always apply well in every circumstance.
Hasbro designs the line in part to appeal to collectors, in part to appeal to casual buyers, and it's all to make money. They're trying to sell toys, bottom line, at the lowest cost that they can, so that they can make as big a profit as possible. With that very simple axiom in mind, it's easy to understand why certain decisions get made with the line, and why not every single piece is a work of art.
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What should I do with my custom R-3PO? Should I retire him to my plastic figure cases? Or some sort of droid factory diorama? Perhaps Palpatine's apartment from EPISODE I (there was a red Protocol droid that didn't get any screen time named TC-6)?
The possibilities are endless! :-*
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That's really the gist of it all...
Hasbro is about making $ and also saving it as much as possible. They know they'll sell more units in an uber articulated, incredibly sculpted, has it all Jedi Luke... than say a Hoth Trooper...
Chances are no matter how much someone may whine that a builder lacks this and that they will still buy multiples regardless...
Hasbro knows that, and it's unfortunate for some, but that's how it is...
Also collection#1 by far sold more units through to most retailers. The retailers go w/ what they believe will be the most wanted... and fastest mover... Because like Hasbro they are out to make as much $ as they can.
I think one thing that was over sighted that I mentioned is in the long run some builders may sell more units than some main characters... though keep in mind many builders will continue to ship whereas a new main character is replaced by an even newer one.
You may have times where a certain builder will ship in an additional four (or more) cases along after it's initial release...
Since the split of collections into 1 & 2 happened more ordering of collection one by the big n' mortar retail side has gone on because again they will sell better to the casual and new collector than say a Bespin guard...
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Just read this over at Yakface...take it with a grain of salt of course
The Droid Factory didn't ring any bells with the designers either, but they both recalled that someone was designing the CZ-1 droid figure which they both referred to as the "clown Droid."
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...they both recalled that someone was designing the CZ-1 droid figure which they both referred to as the "clown Droid."
(http://www.starwars.com/databank/droid/cz3/img/movie_bg.jpg)
Good deal! Another one of the figures I've expected would be made sooner or later, since he's just a cool and unique looking droid. Who did that amazing custom of CZ last year? Don't recall, but it was beautiful! Hopefully Hasbro's is similar. So I wonder if he would fall into one of the "themed waves" for next year... If so, I guess it would be the Tatooine one. Unless there's some further waves coming later on after the 5 we already know of. Either way, just give me the dang droid already! :-*
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I hope it gets made and comes out in 2004. This has been high on my list for a very long time. I call him "pyscho" droid. He just looks like the town nut that you stay away from. LOL!
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I just merged a bunch of discussions that were about 2003/2004 figures...
Feel free to start threads on individual waves of figures and the like one we get those coming...until then we'll keep speculating and hoping and discussing here ;)