Questions for August 13, 2004
Q&A Archive

While I had hoped to squeeze in four updates this week, I suppose three out of four ain’t bad. I guess I can just blame it on Friday the 13th… I did manage to get a little feedback that I thought was interesting. One reader wrote in suggesting the possible reason Hasbro could not reproduce the vintage cardbacks is because some of the imagery was under the photographers’ copyright, not Kenner or Hasbro. I suppose if this were the case, having to go back and re-shoot some or all of it identically would’ve been difficult, if not flat out impossible. Who knows, maybe Hasbro will go into more detail on this at one point, but even if this is close to the issue, it sounds reasonable enough to me. In any event, thanks to everyone that contributed a question for this edition, and to everyone else whose email I’ll get to next time. I’ve already got a start on issue #131 so with any luck we’ll meet back here again real soon. Have a great weekend, and keep those emails comin’!

On with the show:

1
I have a question regarding holographic figures. With the upcoming release of the exclusive holographic Emperor figure, has there been any word, or has Hasbro been questioned regarding the holographic Nute Gunray? Likewise, is there any indication that holographic figures will replace the silver exclusive/promotional figures from now on? -Jared (darth_sidious)

I haven’t seen any recent information regarding Holographic Nute Gunray and I’m pretty sure the situation with the figure hasn’t changed. Right now it’s kinda in Hasbro’s back pocket, so to speak, and if a good opportunity to release it comes up they will. I don’t imagine we’ll see it next year, but maybe 2006. At this point, considering the track record of the previous Nute figure and Episode I based toys in general, I don’t think basic carded is the way to go with this one. However; (and I hope this puts a bug in someone’s ear) I’d think it’s ripe for one of the Toys ‘R’ Us Multipacks. Who knows, as simple a figure as it is, I have to think Hasbro will take advantage of it at some point. As for Holographic figures taking the place of the Silver Edition exclusives, I think that’s a fantastic idea and much more suitable to “extended play,” but there’s been no indication there’s any kind of plan like that going forward.


2
I have one of every figure released on cardback as single figures since 1995 and my question is now that the OTC collection is out how would you distinguish what I should be buying and what not, I understand the Dagobah and Bespin waves but my problem comes in the C-3PO that was a millennium minted coin or the Vaders’ that was that dark side pack and the POTJ figure that have now been re-packs. If you had this problem what would you do? Also the Tusken Raider coming out, wasn’t it originally a TPM figure in the POTJ line?

This is a tough choice, if you are serious about having one of every figure released; you’re easily looking at doubling or tripling up on a good number of them. Going back to Power of the Force II, the change over from orange to green cards to hologram foils to slides alone led to multiples of just about every figure released. I think the backlash from that caused Hasbro to rethink there policy and led to a period for the last few years where they didn’t re-card figures. Now, the practice has started to creep back in, and OTC in particular is causing collectors to question what the “should” collect. Originally, I was firmly in the camp that was not going to buy any of the re-packed OTC figures. Then I got a look at the packaging and I caved and moved to the camp that would buy only one each of the re-carded figures because they looked so cool. Now I’m looking for at least doubles of the figures Hasbro has put a little more work into because they’re really an improvement and I have to have one open. Who knows, before long I’ll probably have a full carded and full open set, but that’s me… From an investment stand point I don’t think it’s going to make much of a difference either way, so it all comes down to what makes you happy. If you’re happy with just one each of the first release version, then pass on the re-carded figures. If passing on them could potentially lead to regret later on, then go ahead and pull the trigger now. If figures from other packages being released on single cards counts as a new figure in your book, then go for it. Bottom line; collecting should be fun. If there’s an aspect of it that is no longer any fun for you, then by all means leave it behind. And yes, the OTC Tusken Raider was originally a “prequel” figure in the Power of the Jedi line. Hope that helps!


3
What is the deal with the VOTC Luke? I have not seen this figure at all. Has Hasbro Cancelled the VOTC line already. Also, why do they cancel or discontinue certain items? Does the VOTC Luke still exist?

The Vintage OTC line is not cancelled, nor is the VOTC Luke figure. For some reason it was dropped from the first assortment, but it is included in the wave 1 follow up case. As a matter of fact, some stores have already started receiving this case and many collectors have reported finding it. Cancellation can come for a number of different reasons, including but not limited to; poor sales, lack of retail interest, production problems, or safety concerns. Typically it is very rare to see an item discontinued once it’s gone into production, though occasionally it may seem like it has been based on poor distribution. Give it a couple weeks or so, you should hopefully see the VOTC Luke by then. Good luck!


4
I waited and searched a long time for an Attack of the Clones read-along audiocassette, or at least a read-along CD. I've never found anything. They put them out for Phantom Menace, but I've looked high and low for 'Clones' [and] have come up empty. Do you think they're dead and gone?

Those tapes are great in those R2-D2 cassette players. I for one do[n’t] think cassettes are bad because the actual media is protected, unlike CDs and DVDs where scratches are rampant. Children can handle them roughly and they survive. -Charlie (Minneapolis)

The product offering for ‘Clones’ was much narrower than it was for Phantom Menace, I don’t recall any type of read-along audiocassette/CD's being offered. I was looking too, I wanted a kid’s storybook like the one released for TPM, but that whole niche there seems to have been ignored. It probably had something to do with AOTC not being as kid friendly, or just not spreading the license too thin, but the result is basically the same – no kids books. Hopefully this will change with Episode III, I know my son really enjoys it when we read the TPM book together, it’s still one of his favorites.


5
Okay so we're getting more Clone Wars figs. Are they just going to be the animated style or are they going to be regular style as well? Will Obi-wan in Clone Armor be included (fingers crossed)? Did Hasbro allude to any future endeavors with EU figs or at least vocalize a possibility?

In your opinion what's up with LEGO? Why are they being so silent and not supporting Star Wars at this time (i.e. sets for this year, sets that tied into the Clone Wars)? Is there some possible big announcement in the horizon?

Does Hasbro know there is a fairly big demand for a Quin Lon Vos figure? Is there any possibility that we'll see one soon (after the Episode 3 push of course)?

Right now the only Clone Wars figures confirmed are the animated style ones shown at Comic Con. While Hasbro did say something about seeing plenty of Clone Troopers next year, they weren’t exactly clear if they’ll be AOTC Clones or the new Revenge of the Sith Clones; the original question asked about the CW Super Articulated Trooper so hopefully both. Hasbro did say the earliest they could do anything within the EU would be 2006, so I guess we’ll just have to wait and see…

Considering recent financial announcements from LEGO, and a little reorganization on top of that, I think LEGO is just playing it cool until they can get on top of the situation. Typically product offering from them in a non-movie year is light, I suppose all things considered it should be lighter than usual in 2004. Not to worry too much though; they seem to be re-dressing some of their packaging to reflect OTC, and I’m sure they’ll kick it into high gear for Episode III.

I think it’s fair to say Hasbro knows Vos is a popular comic book character, though they may not be totally convinced he’d be a popular action figure. As far as I’m concerned, I think he’d make a PERFECT action figure. Let’s face it, when you boil it all down to basics, he’s a cool looking Jedi and that’s about all he needs to be. Kids have some fodder for their arena battles or Clone War campaigns, and fans get one more of their favorites in plastic. Considering the effort Hasbro put into their Clone Wars Jedi 3-pack, you would think they could justify going forward with this figure. Ultimately time will tell, but I for one have my fingers crossed.


6
I was just reading that article at Rebelscum.com that summed up the Q&A session with Hasbro at the Comic-Con. After reading over this, I just shook my head in disbelief. Why in the world does Hasbro absolutely ignore anything that collectors ask of them? The Star Wars line is SO geared towards collectors, it isn't even funny... yet, they continue to shoot down and bulk absolutely everything that a fan/collector would want. What's worse is that their "reasons" are ridiculous. Here's just one example:

A: Fan's Choice Figure #6 will not return until at least 2006. (The reason given is because it is too difficult to have one without spoiling Episode III plot details).

What in the WORLD does having another "Fan's Choice" figure have to do with spoiling the plot of Episode III? What did ANY of the past "Fan's Choice" figures have to do with spoiling plotlines??????? Did the McQuarrie Stormtrooper spoil any plots for any of you? How about General Dodonna or Captain Antilles? Did the release of those figures "spoil" any movie plotlines for you? Amanaman? The Duros dude? How nuts are the people at Hasbro? A "Fan's Choice" could easily be done without any attention to Episode III whatsoever. Matter of fact, I'd think that a "Fan's Choice" would come from a movie they HAVE seen...how could it come from a movie they HAVEN'T seen? What about EU?? It makes absolutely no sense. Oh, well...any TRUE "Fan's Choice" poll would have been a blank space to fill in with your favorite character...not a pre-made list from Hasbro containing figures that are probably all in the works, anyway. I seriously [think] that whole thing is rigged. What are your thoughts about Hasbro's spokespeople and their poor response? Also, do you think those "Fan's Choice" polls are a lot of "hooey", too? -Obi-Wan BRENTobi

Yeah, a little thin that one, huh? I suppose they see it a little something like this. Considering the timing (with the new movie and all), if Hasbro wanted to take full advantage of a Fan Choice poll for 2005, they would want the characters on it to be from Episode III. To do that, they would at least have to show a picture of the candidates. Along with a picture Hasbro might feel compelled to give some kind of description so fans would know a little bit more about the characters they’re choosing from… And the really sad thing is, and you know I’m right, there are bound to be fans out there that cry SPOILER and make a fuss over having been subjected to even the most basic image/information. Why would Hasbro subject themselves to that if they didn’t have to…? Well, they don’t have to, and that’s basically what they’ve said.

Sure they could run a poll with characters from the other five movies, but how well would that work into their plans for 2005, we really don’t know. Another take on the Fan Choice line can’t be ignored either. With the exception of Ephant Mon and the Concept Stormtrooper, all of the previous Fan Choice figures have been peg warmers. Ellors, Amanaman, and Antilles sat, or are sitting now; which isn’t a bad thing in one sense, but not good in another. As for the surveys, I don’t think they’re rigged, they may be from a pre-selected list, but the fans do choose. I wouldn’t be surprised if at times some of the figures were in some stage of development already, but I do know for a fact that we have totally surprised Hasbro on at least one occasion and they have had to start from scratch. In any event; I’m sure well see the Fan Choice surveys continue, it’s a clear PR win for Hasbro, it’s just not good timing for one right now.


7
Would Hasbro ever consider releasing more collector friendly figure storage cases? The Vader, 3PO and various other cases from the past look great, but probably work better for kids and not collectors that open their figures and try to keep the figures and accessories together and organized. I do not display all of my figures at one time, and have found that the best way to store them is by the Container Store's Infinite Divider Boxes. Each box holds about 12 figures depending on size (bulky figures do not always work) and keeps everything together and safe. I recommend all collectors to try these. Do you know of any storage boxes that work well aside from what I use? I do not see why Hasbro could not come up with something more basic like what is out there but equipped to hold all types of figures and accessories.

Also, do you think Hasbro Direct will ever offer sets of the stands that now come with the figures so that we can get them for the older figures that did not come with them? I think the stands are one of Hasbro's best choices. Do they really need to keep making the stands interlocking though? I think they would look better with out that feature and they could really add to the stands by painting the "Star Wars" name in silver and add the character's name to each stand too.

Hasbro seems intent not to service this area for collectors; they know the need is out there, but they continually ignore the thought. Instead of more useful, efficient cases, we continue to get the odd sized, odd shaped likes of Vader, 3PO, and the Millennium Falcon carry cases. I’m not sure what it will take to get the point across, but what we really need are cases more like the vintage vinyl box with stackable insert trays. Heck, it might even be nice to see them kill two birds with one stone (heck, three birds) and develop a line of vehicle/carry case/ playsets like the old Rebel Transport. In the meantime, I’ve had pretty good luck using Plano’s Stowaway cases (similar to what you described) found in hardware or fish and tackle sections of many big box stores. Again, they fit most all figures, with the exception of the odd shaped/larger variety.

It doesn’t look like there are any plans to offer sets of the stand at the moment, but you never know what could happen down the line. At this point I don’t see Hasbro making any big changes to the stands themselves, they work just fine as is, even if you choose not to interlock them. I also don’t see Hasbro putting any more money into them by painting the logo or adding decals for individual figures. As far as pack-ins go, they probably are the best they’ve come up with; while a mail away set would be great, I just hope they keep them with the basic figures from here on out.


8
Any chance the Battlefront Biker Scout will be made available as a club exclusive? I really want it but I'm not gonna buy a $50 game just to get it... Maybe they could also do a DIANOGA fan club exclusive.... Just a thought...

Someone correct me if I’m wrong, but it doesn’t look like this is being offered anywhere individually at this time. I suppose it ‘could’ eventually become a stand alone exclusive for the Fan Club or StarWarsShop.com, but it would depend largely on what was left over after the video/computer game offer had expired. As someone who follows the LucasArts games closely, I’d love to see Hasbro offer more items like this but for now we just have to wait and see. Hopefully this will be the start of a trend that lasts a long time.


9
Will Hasbro continue with the Unleashed line for EP3? -Jedd

While Hasbro’s full range for Episode III has not been announced, with Target and Wal-Mart stepping up their coverage of the line, I’d think there’s a real good chance the Unleashed line will be around for 2005 and beyond. The line has become very popular in its own right, but seeing that commitment at retail pretty much seals the deal. I expect we will hear more about possible Episode III offerings as we get closer to the end of the year, certainly by the time the Revenge of the Sith line hits shelves next April.

10
I am surprised that we have yet to see a 12-inch AOTC 3PO. Any word on if & when Hasbro could produce one? -Adam

No word at this time, and I wouldn’t count on it next year either. Funny, it probably would have been one of the easiest 12” figures to produce for AOTC; Hasbro already has a mold, they just needed to alter the deco to match. Heck, they could have done a real nice F/X version based off of the Episode I: Electronic TC-14, I guess the idea just didn’t jump out at anybody. Looking at the state the 12” line is in now, I’m not holding out much hope Hasbro will ever get around to this. I think we’ll see a fair amount of Episode III 12” figures next year with the release of the movie, and then Hasbro will slowly let the line die off. Lately, the line as not done well in non-movie years, and I think a lot of collectors would actually like to see Hasbro sell that part of their license off to concentrate their efforts more on the 3¾” line. With Sideshow coming on board it seems like this would make for a good transition, but something tells me Hasbro would rather not have to then turn around and compete with the line for collectors’ attention/dollars. We’ll see, maybe if Episode III manages to breathe new life into the line, and Hasbro can swing a steady commitment to it, we’ll see its continuation; if not I fear the line is doomed.


Until next time...


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