I've been continuing to give this some thought, as it looks like I'm going to have to really focus in on cutting back on things overall (when collecting, comics, and DVDs are all considered). I have been reading up/looking at the beginning years of the POTF2 line, because I wasn't really actively collecting then, and it seems like if the line was similar to that in regards to releases - it would make things easier. Of course, things can't be exactly that way anymore - because at the time it was the first modern versions of all of the characters, and they were only drawing from the OT movies. I just see how those years consisted anywhere from 12-30 figures per year, a handful of deluxe and vehicles/beasts, and that about covered things. The collecting budget could definitely handle more. I can see how many people started off with a carded and loose collection, when there is only 12 figures at first (and not knowing what is coming beyond that), its easier to keep up. Plus, there wasn't so many "games in town" so to speak, with all the different companies and lines - particularly higher end lines - like there is now.
When I first started back in collecting (vintage at first), I started by buying loose POTF2 figures - starting with the main guys. Then I started picking a few up at retail, and then buying some Episode I figures when the movie came out. The first time I got deeper into a line overall was with the POTJ line, which I collected almost in its entirety. Granted, I skipped a few figures and vehicles along the way, but I was basically able to get by on about an average of $30 a month for a collecting budget. Since then, things have ballooned not only with Star Wars but picking up other collectibles along the way. Now I try to keep it under $100. I know my wife didn't say a word about my spending when it was $30/month, but it comes up a lot more often now

. I can't say I don't agree though, because when I look at what I spend for a year (or month), it seems crazy at times. I think that's part of things too, I sort of miss the simpler times. I don't
have to buy anything, but its nice when there isn't quite as much out there to tempt you

. Not that I'm complaining about all the nice product, but I'd be lying if I said there wasn't a part of me that liked the less cluttered, less releases, cheaper and simpler times.