This was a surprising set of reveals for TVC outside of Ben Kenobi. The likeness to Alec Guiness is pretty good from looking at the images. Although I don't know if I could ever really picture him in that one fighting stance that was in both ROTS and REBELS, LOL! But with him finally revealed we now have only two remaining TVC Pipeline reveals - Han Solo and Chewbacca. Having seen those TBS reveals of Han and Chewie? I can't help but think that those digital design assets played into the development of the TVC versions, but minus the butterfly shoulder joints.
I was so NOT expecting the Stormtrooper 3-pack! And truthfully? Those kinds of surprises are good for maintaining some enthusiasm for the line. As for the figures? I think this format was a good way to offer that Snowtrooper Commander, as well as the updates for the Scout Trooper, like the improved hip joints. Do we really want these figures taking up slots in the mainline? It's a tradeoff, but I think this 3-pack is the better option. And I could definitely see the potential for a Scout Trooper 4-pack down the line.
As for the Sandtrooper? I like what Hasbro did here - even if they put the backpack on upside down in the promo photos! Using that VC231 Stormtrooper as a starting point was good. I see the knee looks correct, and so does the belly plate. The 3 weapons are a nice touch, too. The one disappointing feature was the lack of the ammo pouches on the belt. It seemed like the Sandtrooper who questions Luke and Ben was the basis for this figure. And he has the ammo pouches - the TBS figure has the ammo pouches - the TVC figure does not. Boooooo!
As for the Cantina playset and figures? I think it's a great throwback to that Sears exclusive from 1978! It's one item that I really wish I had gotten as a kid, but missed out on. Especially with the blue Snaggletooth. While these figures might all be repaints? They're the right kind of repaints, and they hit the nostalgia notes just right. And for this price? I'm pretty happy.
