Friday, October 14, 2011

Star Wars Figure of the Day: Day 1,653: Rebel Trooper

REBEL TROOPER Tantive IV Defender
Saga Collection 2
Item No.:
Asst. 84861 No. ???
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #0254
Includes: Blaster
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $4.99
Availability: January 2003
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: The Rebel Blockade Runner Tantive IV was on an urgent mission to Tatooine. Princess Leia Organa, armed with secret plans to the Death Star, was on her way to find General Obi-Wan Kenobi when the ship was attacked by an Imperial Star Destroyer. The heroic Rebel troopers were the last line of defense as the ship was boarded by Darth Vader and a platoon of Stormtroopers. (Taken from the figure's packaging.)

Image: Adam's desk fan.

Commentary: It's the Rebel Trooper with another head variant! It took a while but Hasbro delivered the head variants on these figures, setting a precedent (at least in the pre-current days) that if they said they would release a variant or make a change, it might take a year, but it would happen. Both heads showed up in early 2003, with the same body (complete with removable vest) and a helmet glued to the newly-tooled heads. This one has reddish hair, which is the most distinguishing characteristic as the three pasty white human faces all look different, but are hard to describe as HOW they're different. Sporting the same articulation as before, he keeps the nifty knee articulation and blaster pistol, and unfortunately the exact same arms. As diorama filler it's quite good, but the 2011 version is unquestionably a better overall figure.

Collector's Notes: At least five heads exist for this one body, so variation hunters, rejoice! Or freak out. What is it you do?

--Adam Pawlus



Day 1,653: October 14, 2011

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