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2-26-2009

Topps Galaxy Series 4

The newest Topps set, Galaxy Series 4, was released last week on the 18th.  I ordered a box and last night had the chance to sit down and open it and I'm really happy with what I pulled.

The colation was well done in the box I received.  I got one complete set of 120 cards with only 32 doubles and no triples.  I pulled 16 chase cards including a sketch card by Mike Duron, a gold parallel foil, bronze parallel foil and several silver foils and etched foil puzzle pieces.

The set has a ton of popular Star Wars artists including Adam Hughes, Jerry Vanderstelt, Russ Walks, Joe Corroney, Cat Staggs, Tommy Lee Edwards and Chris Trevas. 

This is the first new Galaxy series in over 13 years.  Series 3 was released way back in 1995.

If you get a chance to pick up a box, or even single packs at your local store, you won't be disappointed.

2-25-2009

Disney

Disney has partnered with Lucasfilm for several years now, not only holding their Star Wars Weekends, but also creating and selling unique collectibles.

Their lines have included action figures, plush, pins and statues.  This week Disney announced the final four statues in their character statue line.  The four statues will be;

• Mickey as Luke Skywalker w/ Yoda
• Minnie as Slave Leia
• Goofy as Chewbacca
• Donald Duck as Han Solo in Carbonite

The statues will each be limited to 600 pieces and retail for $195.  They will be available in June.  Disney's Hollywood Studios will have 500 of each bust while 100 will go to Disneyland in California.

Head over to starwars.com for the full article and photos of the other statues.

2-23-2009

Republic Gunship

Revell

For the last couple of years, the Revell company has had the license to produce models for the US and UK market based vehicles from the Star Wars films.  In 2008 they added a Republic Gunship to their pre-painted line called easykit pocket.

So far this has only been released in the UK market and has not yet hit the mainstream retail market in the US.  Most of the models are on the small side, costing about 5.00 GBP, or $7.00, and are sold in packaging meant to hang from shelf pegs.

I recently set up a trade with a forum member and was able to pick up two sets of the Gunship.  I haven't put either together yet, but I plan on assembling at least one ship.  As I mentioned, they are pre-painted and being a snap together kit, require no glue.  If I can pickup another two or three for a reasonable price in the future I may try my luck at painting one to weather it up a bit.

Revell's other offerings include an ARC-170, Snowspeeder, Naboo Starfighter, several Jedi Starfighter models and larger ships including the Millennium Falcon and Republic Attack Cruiser.  If you don't mind a little "assembly required," I'd recommend picking a couple of these up if you have the chance.

Gentle Giant

Gentle Giant finally released information about the 2009 Premier Guild, including what the free gifts are this year.  You will have your choice of a realistically styled Captain Rex mini bust or a gold plated Darth Vader helmet.  Check out the press release below.

Along with the announcement of the 2009 Premier Guild membership items, GG also let slip some info on exclusives coming up.  As mentioned in the press release, PG members will be able to purchase some exclusive variant busts.  Coming up will be an exclusive Han Solo Hoth bust with a blue jacket and a Snowtrooper Commander.

Plus, some statues will come with an "extra bonus figure."  Not sure what that means yet.

2-20-2009

Sideshow

Don't forget that today is pre-order day for Lando Calrissian.  At 1:00 PM EST time, Sideshow's website will go to the streamlined ordering format.

Star Wars: A Musical Journey

The O2 in London will be hosting Star Wars: A Musical Journey featuring music by John Williams.  Check out the press release below.

Toy Fair Recap

I forgot to mention a couple items yesterday in my highlights summary and that's the new plush toys from Underground Toys and Comic Images.  I'm a huge fan of Comic Images and Underground Toys is doing some similar things with their new line.  I'll definitely be looking for Underground's Yoda and Comic Image's new super deformed Jawa.

Okay, on to the lowlights from Toy Fair.  I'm going to start off with Hasbro just to get them out of the way.

Hasbro

Sometimes it's almost too easy to pick on Hasbro for their missteps, but being the largest license holder in the Star Wars market, they have a lot more chances.  Generally they miss when it comes to trying new things (motorcycles) or really booting a sculpt (the first Ilum Padme).

This year the blaring issue is the Geonosis Assault Battle Pack.  This is the set that includes two Clone Trooper pilots but only includes one Gunship turret.  There seems to be steadily eroding value on a couple of Hasbro's lines and that's what we're seeing here.  The price on the BPs has gone up anywhere from $1 to $6 at some stores while the figure count has dropped to four (on straight figure packs). 

The new BP, I'm certain, would have contained two turrets as close as a 18 months ago, but not now.  What makes this a terrible value is that we have five Gunship releases, all of which could use the turrets to complete them.  But needing to buy two BPs for over $44 to complete one ship is ridiculous.

Hasbro has said, and recently at that, that they didn't feel there was a need for a "deluxe" line of figures and small vehicles or accessories.  Until this past weekend.  They've introduced what many feel is the perfect deluxe line at a reasonable price point.  Only they did it in the Clone Wars line.

The Gunship turret with a pilot or a Clone Trooper would fit squarely into this model.  With the Evolutions going away (after a final exclusive wave), the Vintage line on hold, exclusive 2-packs and comic sets going to $12.99 and the value on the $20 Battle Pack eroding, I think now is the time to bring a deluxe pack to the Legacy Collection.  Replace the BPs with this line and pack figures with Speeder Bikes, BARC Speeders, Crab Droids, and any one of a dozen other accessories that would fit in a $15 to $16 price point.

Gentle Giant

The price on their Premier Guild is going to $60 this year with the only possible saving grace being that they're rumored to have a "free" Star Wars mini bust as the exclusive member item.

The other downside to GGs news from the weekend is that their endlessly cool Ralph McQuarrie concept Boba Fett bust will be a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive. 

Hugely popular character from a hugely popular artist in a (still) very popular collectible line?  Yeah, there's a chance for problems on this one.  GG is offering up some other very cool items this year and several of them offer repaint chances that would make incredible exclusives, but not a McQuarrie Fett.  If they do have a line of busts based on McQuarrie art, as they're rumored to be doing, not having Fett could leave many collections incomplete. 

Feeling like you're being forced into paying for the privilege of buying a luxury item leaves a bad taste in the mouth.

Sideshow

This lowlight list is mainly about value and that's the issue here.  The continuously climbing prices on the Sideshow 1:6 scale figures, dwindling accessories and sketchy quality are the perfect ingredients for alienating collectors.

Consider me an alien.  I've passed on every release since the General Obi-Wan Kenobi release in 2008 and that one I'm even looking to part with now.  I commend Sideshow for the things they do right, but it's my opinion that the value on their 1:6 line has decreased enough to to say goodbye.

The Rest

There may be some other areas where companies have missed the mark in value or execution but nothing was glaring enough for me to point them out.  Overall, the companies displaying and announcing product during the 2009 Toy Fair did well.  There is definitely more to be excited about than to harp on.  But when you have passionate collectors scrutinizing your items, and you're pushing the $100 limits on your items, there is a level of quality and value that needs to be met.  Otherwise it's very easy for people to pass.

2-19-2009

Checklists

I updated the Legacy Collection and Clone Wars checklists to reflect as much of the new information as I could.  Toy Fair threw a lot at us quick but I think I've got most of it sorted.

Toy Fair Recap

I'm going to start my Toy Fair recap by going over what I think were the highlights for this year's show.  There were a few items here and there that looked like fun but didn't make my list.  There seems to be a good number of fun and innovative ideas this year and it's good to see the Star Wars license still be viable.

Uncle Milton

I think this is the brightest spot for the Star Wars license at Toy Fair.  The products that are coming from them are some of the most innovative items since Master Replicas introduced the FX Lightsabers.

I hope kids go nuts for the full line.  I'm thrilled with it as an adult and can only imagine how excited I'd be by these as a 10 or 11 year-old kid.  The Force Trainer stands out as the most interesting, but the Dagobah Frog Habitat and Naboo Sea Creatures would be great fun as well.

Hasbro

Hasbro actually gave us quite a bit of info at least as far as the Clone Wars line goes.  I think the fact that it's geared more towards kids than collectors means that they're looking to get stores excited about it.  And there are reasons to be excited.

That line will bring us some fun figures and a couple new vehicles over the coming months.  On the figure front I'm really looking forward to Kit Fisto, Mace Windu and the Jawas!  The ARF Trooper also looks fun as does Admiral Yularen and Cad Bane.  For vehicles, I'm really psyched about the TX-130 Tank and MagnaGuard Starfighter.

Covering both the Clone Wars and Legacy Collection is the Turbo Tank and, I have to say, it's quite impressive as well.

The Legacy Collection seems a mixed bag but the new AOTC and TPM Obi-Wan figures are much appreciated while Darth Sidious w/ Mechno Chair is an interesting twist.

I think the Expanded Universe figures in the Comic 2-packs really stand out with a great looking Lumiya figure leading the way.  Kyle Katarn and Sigel Dare are also must haves.

Bringing the Eopie back as the 2009 Mail-In promo is genius in my opinion.  Can't wait for that.

While they're mostly going to have repacked figures, I'm also intrigued by the Target exclusive Geonosis Arena 2-packs with their packaging that should fit together to create an Arena display.

Lego

Lego has a solid game pretty much every year, at least when they remember to cover the lower priced sets, but the top item for them this year is the new 10195 Dropship with AT-OR.

While it has a steep price, the forward thinking Lego showed by building in features to their AT-TE so it would interact with the Dropship is something Hasbro could take a cue from.  Hasbro has done this a couple times, but not quite on this grand of a scale.

Sideshow

Sideshow didn't attend Toy Fair this year and while they showed off new products on their web site, the Dual Display was probably the most interesting new item they have.  They have taken the standard diorama and turned it into a piece of art.  Nice.

Gentle Giant

Several new mini busts and statues were shown off over the weekend even though GG wasn't in NYC this year either.  The Darth Talon and Snowtrooper mini busts look to be hits this year with both the OT and EU collectors.  I also have to give kudos to the McQuarrie Concept Boba Fett bust even though it'll be a San Diego Comic-Con exlusive.

JAAKS Pacific

I like different and nothing is quite as different as JAAKS Pacific's new MARBS line of collectible marbles.  It's thinking outside the box like this that makes me take notice.  And the fact that they aren't blind boxing these makes it a fun line for character collectors as well as maybe getting some kids to play a classic game.

Now, make sure to tune in tomorrow for the lowlights!

2-18-2009

Toy Fair

Today is the final day of the 2009 Toy Fair.  Not a lot of new news overnight so not a big update today.  I'll recap my thoughts on this year's show in tomorrows update.

I'm also going to be working on making more updates to the checklists and sorting through the ton of info to see if there are any other points that need to be cleared up.

Hasbro

Couple updates on Hasbro items shown off this weekend. 

Per the Hasbro presentation, the Pod Racer from the 2009 TPM line will be Clegg Holdfast rather than Ratts Tyerell, who was shown in the Toy Fair photos and slideshow.  This was originally going to be a 2-pack but was split up.  Look for Ratts some time in the future.

In what I would consider the worst news comes about the Geonosis Assault Battle Pack.  The pack will include two pilots, as shown in the presentation, but will only include ONE turret.  That makes this set basically worthless for those looking to kit out their Republic Gunships.  With the new BP prices at $22 or more, two of this Battle Pack will now cost more than the Gunship.

2-17-2009

Sideshow Pre-Order

Sideshow just opened the pre-order window for their new Dual Display Diorama: Obi-Wan Kenobi - Sabotage!.

The piece is priced at $159.99 and is scheduled to ship in the 3rd quarter of 2009.  No edition size has been set yet but this is the first in the new diorama series so it may sell quickly.

Now that the pre-sale for this is up we also have some additional information on it.  The diorama stands 12-inches high by 9-inches wide and 8-inches deep.  Based on the shipping weight, 6 lbs, it sounds like it's  a substantial piece.

Sideshow

After the teaser image showed up on Valentine's Day, we knew that Sideshow's next 1:6 scale figure would be either Leia or Lando Calrissian and now we know, Lando is the guy!

He will be up for pre-order this Friday, February 20, at 1:00 PM EST.  The Exclusive Edition is limited to only 750 pieces and will set you back $79.99.  His exclusive item is a Bespin communicator.

Lando's regular accessories include a Stormtrooper blaster, Rebel Bespin blaster, two extra hands and a Star Wars stand.

It appears that Lando will be released on the new Prometheus body as the extra hands appear to have pegs.  That's a nice bonus seeing as the price appears to have jumped another $10.

There's a very good chance that he will sell quickly with the limited edition size but if you miss, jump on the wait list quickly if you want him.  There's a very good chance your wait list will convert when

Imperial Family Portrait

Sideshow has posted a new "family portrait" of their Imperials, including Darth Vader, Stormtroopers and Admiral Piett.  I have to admit, this is an impressive lineup of figures.

Gentle Giant

GG finally stepped up and announced some new items yesterday.

First up, look for a new set of bookends depicting the Trash Compactor scene from A New Hope. 

In the mini bust line we have some new announcements beyond those from last week's video as well as seeing some painted samples.  Some of these were previously announced, and are already in the checklist.  Here's some of what we can expect from the mini bust and other lines this year.

• Mini Busts
  • Stormtrooper Commander (The Force Unleashed) - ShopStarWars.com exclusive
  • Oola
  • 4-LOM
  • Battle Droid
  • Boba Fett w/ alt helmet - Ralph McQuarrie Concept (SDCC Exclusive)
  • Darth Talon
  • Luke Skywalker Hoth
  • Han Solo Hoth
• Maquettes
  • Wicket
  • Han Solo in Stormtrooper armor
• Statues
  • Blackhole Stormtrooper (SDCC Exclusive)

There will be more info at SDCC, including a look at another bookend set. 

While there are some cool things coming this year, I almost find it unconscionable that the McQuarrie Boba Fett will be an exclusive.  Why not the Stormtrooper or a Battle Droid repaint?  Out of all the news from this weekend, this is the one that leaves me fuming.

Comic Images

One of my favorite companies, Comic Images, has been producing Super Deformed plush versions of Yoda, Chewie, Vader and others for a couple of years now.  With the advent of the Clone Wars, they expanded their line to include Anakin, Rex, R2-D2 and others.

Now they're expanding again with new characters including a Jawa and Darth Maul in their 8" line.

They also recently added a Rotta the Hutt in backpack to their line of Backpack Buddies line.

Underground Toys

Underground Toys has licenses for several science fiction properties including Doctor Who, Star Trek, Transformers and Heroes.  They also recently added the Star Wars license to their list and are now producing items for the Star Wars films and Clone Wars television show.

Underground Toys is the company that brought us the Darth Vader and R2-D2 USB hubs in 2008.

For 2009 they are showing off several plush items in both a 4" and 9" scale.  The new plush include Yoda, R2-D2, Captain Rex and a Clone Trooper.  They also have a new plush Wicket the Ewok in their 9" line.

On the technology side look for skins for the iPod Touch and iPhone.  Designs include:

• iPod Touch
  • Darth Vader
  • Yoda
  • Boba Fett
  • 501st Clone Trooper
  • AT-AT Walkers
  • Chewbacca
  • ROTS Clone Trooper
• iPhone
  • Darth Maul
  • Darth Vader
  • Boba Fett
  • ROTS Clone Trooper
  • R2-D2

Also for your cell phone, look for LED phone charms with Yoda and Darth Vader.

Underground will offer two different In Your Pocket items, one each for the Clone Wars and the Saga.  These electronic devices will have phrases and sounds from the cartoon and films.  The Clone Wars model will have phrases from characters such as Obi-Wan, Asajj, Rex and R2-D2.

If toys are gadgets aren't for you, Underground Toys also offers mugs and key chains with different designs.

You should be able to find Underground Toys items at retailers including Toys-R-Us and novelty stores such as Spencer Gifts and Hot Topic, or online with sites such as Entertainment Earth and Big Bad Toy Store.

Basic Fun

Basic Fun expands on their line of Star Wars and Star Wars: The Clone Wars key chains.  Some of the new items for 2009 include:

• Darth Maul
• X-Wing
• Tatooine Luke Skywalker
• Han Solo
• Death Star
• Scout Trooper
• Asajj Ventress (CW)
• Kit Fisto  (CW)
• R2-D2 (CW)
• Count Dooku (CW)
• Magna Guard (CW)
• Plo Koon (CW)

Stack Ems key chains

• Darth Maul
• Emperor's Royal Guard
• Emperor
• Captain Rex (CW)
• Commander Cody (CW)
• Commander Rex (CW)

Uncle Milton Update

Uncle Milton released more details on their science line of toys, including estimated retail prices we can expect to pay.  While the Force Trainer is rather expensive at nearly $130, the other items are more affordable and may be just as much fun.

Star Wars Optical Command Unit: MSRP $34.99

Go on scouting missions or examine microscopic details with just one toy! The Optical Command Unit is a multi-functional reconnaissance device that can be assembled into three unique configurations – binoculars, magnifier and mini-projector. Learn about optics and visual projection with this 3-in-1 kit!
 

The Force Trainer: MSRP $129.99

May the Force be with you! The Force Trainer by Uncle Milton actually allows you to control a Jedi Training Remote with your mind, by tapping into cutting-edge brainwave technology. Utilizing dry EEG sensor technology, the headset reads and interprets your brainwaves. The deeper your concentration and mental focus, the greater your ability to move the Training Sphere up or down the Training Tower. Progress from Padawan to Jedi Master as you master the use of “The Force” through 15 levels of training. Increasingly challenging sequences are aided by training cues and instruction from the master of all Jedi Masters himself, Yoda. Additional Star Wars sound effects confirm accomplishment and provide encouragement throughout your training. Advancement and current level of your training is displayed on the Training Tower control panel.

Star Wars Darth Vader Robotic Arm: MSRP $44.99

The Darth Vader Robotic Arm kit shows you how to build a robotic arm and lets you grip and move real objects with interactive controls. The arm assembles quickly with snap-together parts, and includes a stand with built-in controls. Kids will also learn how robotic arms are being used in medical science applications!

Star Wars Mustafar Volcano Kit: MSRP $24.99

The Mustafar Volcano Kit allows you to create realistic volcanic eruptions and lava flows in a detailed reproduction of the planet Mustafar. Learn how real volcanoes work through your lava experimentation!

Star Wars Naboo Sea Creatures: MSRP $34.99

The Naboo Sea Creatures set is a detailed habitat for raising creatures similar to the denizens of that distant planet. Naboo Sea Creatures (Triops Longicaudatus) have existed on Earth for 350 million years and will grow and swim in a fascinating Naboo aquatic environment. The set includes Naboo Sea Creature eggs, just add water and watch them hatch!

Star Wars Dagobah Frog Habitat: MSRP $34.99

The Dagobah Frog Habitat is an exciting replica of Yoda’s home planet, and the perfect place to watch the metamorphosis of tadpoles changing into frogs! Learn why frogs play an important role in Earth’s eco-system while enjoying the Dagobah swamp theme. Includes mail-in coupon for live tadpoles.

Star Wars Jedi Telescope: MSRP $34.99

The Jedi Telescope can be used to scan our own skies, or to dial up images of iconic Star Wars planets and learn how they are similar to our own. This working telescope features built-in audio facts and sound effects, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Features 10 Star Wars images.

Star Wars Jedi Projector: MSRP $44.99

The Jedi Projector displays bright, crisp projections of exclusive The Clone Wars vehicle images on your wall or ceiling. Also included is a CD audio tour that syncs with the images. Learn how vehicles from The Clone Wars share similarities with vehicle technology on Earth!

2-16-2009

Lego

Toy Fair is in full swing now and info is coming in from other Star Wars license holders.  I'll start with some of the new stuff from Lego.  Most of the 2009 items have already been announced but we've gotten some updated info on set numbers and piece counts as well as release dates and prices.

The biggest surprise at Toy Fair is set 10195 Republic Drop Ship with AT-OR.  It's huge and it's beautiful.  Check out the stats:

• 18-inches long with a 21-inch wing span
• Customizable nose art stickers
• AT-OT is 16-inches long and 5-inches wide
• AT-OT seats 16 figures
• Dropship is compatible with 7675 AT-TE Walker
• Shop@Home exclusive shipping March 3, 2009
• 1758 pieces
• $249.99

It's not a cheap set but it is impressive to see.  The fact that it not only combines with the included AT-OT but also the 7675 AT-TE is incredible.  Now, how to afford it?

The rest of the sets are impressive as well but man, that Dropship is gorgeous.  Alright, not all of this was shown off at Toy Fair but here's the rest of the System sets that we know about for the year.

• 7748 Corporate Alliance Tank Droid: $24.99 - August
• 7749 Echo Base: $24.99 - August
• 7751 Ahsoka's Starfighter and Vulture Droid: $39.99 - January
• 7752 Count Dooku's Solar Sailer: $54.99 - January
• 7754 Mon Calamari Cruiser
• 7778 Millennium Falcon: $29.99
• 8014 Clone Walker Battle Pack: $9.99 - January
• 8015 Assassin Droids Battle Pack: $9.99 - January
• 8016 Hyena Droid Bomber: $19.99 - January
• 8017 Darth Vader's TIE Fighter: $29.99 - January
• 8018 Armored Assault Tank (AAT): $49.99 - January
• 8019 Republic Attack Shuttle: $59.99 - January
• 8036 Separatists Shuttle: $29.99 - August
• 8037 Anakin's Y-Wing Starfighter: $59.99 - August
• 8038 The Battle of Endor: $99.99 - August
• 8039 Venator-class Republic Attack Cruiser: $119.99 - August
• Pirate Tank
• 10195 Republic Dropship with AT-OR: $249.99 - March

We just found out about the Mon Calamari Cruiser, Millennium Falcon and Pirate Tank so I don't have release info for them yet.  The Cruiser was being shown off at Toy Fair but the Falcon and Pirate Tank weren't.  The Falcon is rumored to be coming without minifigs and should sell for about $30.  More info when I get it.

There are some other Lego Star Wars items coming including magnets, watches and at least two mini sets.  Some are out now or will be out shortly.

• Key chains: $4.99
  • 852549 Count Dooku
  • 852550 Yoda
• Magnets: $14.99
  • 852551 The Phantom Menace : Anakin Skywalker, Naboo Fighter Pilot, Darth Maul
  • 852552 Return of the Jedi: Boba Fett, Slave Leia, Emperor's Royal Guard Magnet
  • 852553 Return of the Jedi: Stormtrooper, X-Wing Pilot, AT-ST Driver Magnet
  • 852555 Clone Wars: Yoda, Count Dooku, Mace Windu Magnet
• Mini sets
  • 8033 General Grievous' Starfighter
  • 20007 Mini Republic Attack Cruiser
• Watch
  • 2851185 Stormtrooper Watch: $29.99
  • 2851190 Darth Vader Watch: $29.99
  • 2851192 C-3PO: $29.99
  • 2851193 Darth Maul: $29.99
  • 2851194 Han Solo: $19.99
  • 2851195 Obi-Wan Kenobi Watch: $19.99
  • 2851198 Luke Skywalker & Han Solo Watch: $29.99

Some of those items are up for order online while others may be coming.  Some of the info on the miscellaneous items like these you have to track down, Lego doesn't cover them that much.

One thing to note on the 20007 Attack Cruiser set is that this came with the 2009 Brickmaster subscription.  So if you aren't member, and didn't get this set, you'll have to go to the secondary market for it.

Oh, and just a fun fact, making the assumption that set 7754 will run $99.99 and the Falcon will come in at $29.99 (I didn't count the Pirate Tank), you can expect to pay about $1,290 for all of the announced Star Wars Lego this year.

Uncle Milton

Uncle Milton is a company that produces science oriented toys for kids.  They've been in business since 1946 and one of their most famous products is the Ant Farm brand.  Uncle Milton already partnered with Lucasfilm in 2008 on the Indiana Jones line.  They created several items including the Crystal Skull Adventure Projector and the Lost City Archeology Dig along with several other items.

Now, for 2009, Uncle Milton partners with Lucasfilm to introduce fun new items for the Star Wars line.

They were showing off several interesting and innovative products at Toy Fair

• Jedi Projector: Projects pictures from slides
• Optical Command Unit: binoculars, simulated hologram projector, magnifying glass
• Jedi Telescope: Electronic talking telescope w/ built-in images
• The Force Trainer
• Darth Vader Robotic Arm: Build and display a real bionic arm
• Mustafar Volcano Kit: Erupting volcano lab
• Naboo Sea Creatures: Hatch eggs and watch them grow
• Dagobah Frog Habitat: Watch live tadpoles transform into frogs on Yoda's home plant

I don't have price info on anything except for the Force Trainer which is estimated to run between $90 and $100. 

All of the items look interesting and it's fun to see toys like these since so much of Star Wars was either influenced by, or influenced in return, science that is in use today.  Beyond home use, I could see several of these being used in classrooms as an interesting way to teach biology (Dagobah Frog Habitat) or engineering (Darth Vader Robotic Arm).

JAAKS Pacific

JAAKS Pacific is launching a new line of collectible marbles called MARBS.  The first wave of MARBS will launch this spring and feature Clone Wars images.  These will be exclusive to Toys-R-Us but subsequent waves will be available to all retailers this summer.

Each marble will be individually numbered and depict characters and vehicles from the show with future waves covering the movies.  There are limited edition oversized MARBS as well as Platinum chase marbles.

2-15-2009

Hasbro

Finally got a look at the slide show presentation from Hasbro and there are new items previewed and new info given that wasn't available in the photos that were released earlier so some of the items mentioned yesterday now fit into the line better.

The line should change over to the new packaging look in August.  The Titanium line was not covered in the presentation and there didn't appear to be any items in the booth.

The Mighty Muggs will become a TRU exclusive later in the year.  And based on the slides from the presentation, I believe the 2" Unleashed line will not be continuing into the Fall.

Clone Wars

We can expect 37 figures in 2009 but most of them will come later in the year. 

Here are the next few waves of Clone Wars (Wave numbering is based on 2009 releases):

• Wave 3 - August
  • Mace Windu
  • Admiral Yularen
  • Jawas 2-pack
  • Commander Gree
  • ARF Trooper
  • Super Battle Droid Sergeant (New machine gun arm)
• Wave 4 - Late August
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi in Space Suit
  • Clone Trooper Echo
  • Commando Droid
  • Yoda (new sculpt)
  • Whorm Loathsom
  • 4-A7
• Wave 5 - September
  • Anakin Skywalker in Space Suit
  • Ahsoka Tano in Space Suit
  • Clone Trooper Denal
  • Cad Bane

The Clone Wars Figure and Vehicle Packs will have an estimated price of $15.99 and mix new and older toys and will have some mini rig concepts.  I listed them yesterday but Hasbro showed off the following:

• Anakin Skywalker w/ Can-Cell
• Clone Trooper w/ BARC Speeder
• Battle Droid w/ Scout Tank
• Crab Droid
• Turbo Tank Gunner Crew
• Count Dooku w/ Speeder Bike

There are new and repainted vehicles for 2009.  The Starfighter line is joined by a new Deluxe line.  Look for the new Starfighter vehicles on shelves in June and July while the Deluxe vehicles will be August and October.

• Starfighter Vehicles
  • MagnaGuard Fighter
  • TX-130 Republic Fighter Tank
  • Vulture Droid
  • Anakin's Clone Wars Starfighter
• Deluxe Vehicles
  • Y-Wing
  • ARC-170 Fighter (Imperial Shadow Squadron)

And last, but not least, they showed off the Clone Turbo Tank which is shipping in the Fall with a price estimated at $99.99.

The Legacy Collection

The Legacy Collection will have 46 basic figures not counting the A New Hope wave that is already on shelves.  As with last year, waves with eight figures will build two astromech droids and waves with six figures build a protocol droid.

We've already seen photos and had the info on the Empire Strikes Back wave but I'll cover them here again, along with the Build-a-Droids for each wave.  The Hoth Rebel Trooper and Ugnaught will switch out with new versions which will carry forward.  Think Endor Rebel Troopers from a couple years back.

• Empire Strikes Back - Builds U-3PO (Wave 1 per Hasbro's new numbering scheme): May
  • Luke Skywalker (Medical Frigate)
  • Princess Leia (Medical Frigate)
  • Emperor
  • Captain Needa
  • Hoth Rebel Trooper
  • Ugnaught
• Attack of the Clones - Builds HK-47: June
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi
  • Owen Lars
  • Tarados Gon
  • Captain Typho
  • Beru Lars
  • Concept Art Series: Anakin Skywalker
• The Phantom Menace - Builds L8-L9: September
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi
  • Queen Amidala
  • Gungan Warrior
  • Darth Sidious Hologram on Mechano Chair
  • Rum Sleg
  • Clegg Holdfast - Ratts Tyerell is pictured but will not be in this wave of figures

Mail-In Program

We will have a mail-in program for 2009 and it's to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Phantom Menace.  The mail-in will be for Qui-Gon Jinn and Eopie.  Stickers featuring Darth Maul will start appearing on The Phantom Menace wave of figures in September

Comic 2-Packs

Again, these have mostly been confirmed but we were just seeing them for the first time.

• Legacy #22 - Darth Krayt & Imperial Knight Sigel Dare
• Star Wars Tales #21 - Kyle Katarn & Yuzhan Vong
• Marvel #96 - Luke Skywalker & Lumiya

Battle Packs

• Wave 1 - May
  • Scramble on Yavin - Garven Dreis (Red Leader), R5-K6, Rebel Ground Crew
  • Clone Wars Jabba the Hutt w/ TC-70
• Wave 2 - August
  • Geonosis Assault - 2 AOTC Clone Pilots with Gunship Turret
  • Clone Wars Search for R2-D2 - Gha Nachkt, Ahsoka, Anakin, IG-86 Assassin Droid

Galactic Heroes

• 2-Packs
  • Wave 1 - "soon"
    • Luminara Unduli & Super Battle Droid
    • Padme Amidala & Jar Jar Binks
    • Clone Trooper & Spider Droid
    • Mace Windu & Clone Trooper
  • Wave 2 - August
    • Chewbacca & Death Star Droid & Mouse Droid
    • Rebel Fleet Trooper & Stormtrooper
    • Admiral Ackbar & Nien Nunb
    • R2-D2 & 2 Jawas
• Cinema Scenes
  • Wave 1 - "soon"
    • Assault on the Death Star - Porkins, Dodanna (sic), 2 droids
    • Hoth Snowspeeder Assault - Luke Skywalker, Dak Ralter
  • Wave 2 & 3 - May/June
    • Obi-Wan's ROTS Starfighter - Obi-Wan, R4-P17
    • Jedi Starfighter - Anakin Skywalker
    • Endor Celebration - Han, Luke, Leia, Chewie, Logray, Spirit Yoda, Obi-Wan, Anakin

Force FX Lightsabers

Hasbro is continuing the FX Lightsabers, including two new models; Count Dooku and Episode I Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Role Play

The electronic Clone Helmet line expands with a new helmet, containing lines from The Clone Wars, while a new blaster is coming and Hasbro changes up the lightsabers.

• Captain Rex Clone Commander
• Helmet Ultimate Blaster
• Duel Action Lightsaber

Transformers Crossovers

• Kit Fist/Jedi Starfighter
• Battle Droid/AAT
• Ahsoka Tano/Jedi Starfighter
• MagnaGuard/Fighter

Exclusives

While maybe not shown on the floor, 2009 exclusives were shown off in the presentation.  Some of these we knew about and this is just a confirmation of the stores, formats and a few specific items.

• Target
  • Jabba's Rancor w/ Luke Skywalker
  • Star Wars RC Droids (TOMY, formerly Asian release only)
    • R2-D2
    • R5-D4
    • R2-Q5
    • R5-X2
  • Geonosis Arena - October
    • Kit Fisto & Geonosian Warrior
    • Coleman Trebor & Jango Fett
• Walmart
  • Comic 2-packs - March
    • Marvel #94 - Keoulkeech, Machook, Kettch
    • X-Wing Rogue Squadron #19 - Nrin Vakil & Ibtisam
    • Empire #16 - Lt. Sunber & Amanin
  • Droid Factory - August
    • Anakin & Cortosis Battle Droid
    • General Grievous & CB-3D
    • Darth Maul & I-5YQ
    • Boba Fett & BL-17
    • Corran Horn & Whistler
    • Dark Trooper Phase II (Buildable)
  • Evolutions - September
    • Evolution of the Commandos: Fi Skirata, Alpha-17, Imperial Storm Commando
    • Imperial Pilots 2: V-Wing, AOTC Clone Pilot, TIE Fighter Pilot
    • Rebel Pilots 3: John D. Branon (Red 4), Shira Brie, Jake Farrell (A-Wing)
• Toys-R-Us
  • Galactic Heroes Cinema Scenes - August
    • Purchase of the Droids - Luke, Owen, Gonk, DSD, R5-D4, R2-D2, C-3PO, Jawa
    • Kamino Showdown - Obi-Wan, R4-P17, Jango Fett, Boba Fett, Taun We, 3x Clone Troopers
• HasbroToyShop.com
  • Sand Diego Comic-Con Luke Skywalker X-Wing Pilot (smiling sculpt w/ ladder and accessories)
  • Force Unleashed Stormtrooper Commander (shared with ShopStarWars.com)

That's a lot of exclusives for 2009 since the Evolutions line has now gone the exclusive route for this last wave.  I mentioned Corran Horn and Whistler yesterday as a comic pack but it's in the Walmart Droid Factory line instead. 

As far as exclusives go, I'm especially psyched for the Droid Factory figures and the Evolution sets.

All the other stuff!

Play-Doh makes a fun return to the Star Wars line with an R2-D2 Playset.  There appears to be several molds including characters and a lightsaber hilt and an R2 unit that makes shapes.  The set includes three cans of Play-Doh and six tools.

The Spud Trooper is now back as the Clone Tuber with all new Clone Wars inspired accessories.

There will be several new and returning games including the Galactic Heroes Game and Clone Wars Monopoly.  New will be the Guess Who? Star Wars game along with Star Wars: The Clone Wars Epic Duels, and Star Wars: The Clone Wars AAT Attack. 

Puzzles have been a big part of Star Wars since the 70's and 2009 looks to be a banner year.  The Puzz 3D format returns to the Star Wars line with three new ships; Anakin Skywalker's AOTC Jedi Starfighter, Republic Attack Cruiser, and AT-TE.  There will also be new shaped puzzles that appear to come in metal tins.  Shown was a puzzle in the shape of a Stormtrooper helmet with art from the original trilogy.

Radio Control items will be coming this year, as we saw at the Canada Toy Expo and in Hasbro's pre-Toy Fair news release.  Yesterday at Hasbro's booth they showed off the new 6" R2-D2 figure along with a flying Delta Starfighter (Obi-Wan's) and Republic Gunship.  These are both in a similar format to the Air Hogs ships that you can fly indoors. 

2-14-2009

Hasbro Photos

We have some photos from Hasbro's presentation at Toy Fair tonight.  I'm not posting all of them but wanted to cover the TLC figures, comic packs, battle packs, Evolution and get a couple shots up of the new Turbo Tank

TLC

Comic 2-Packs

All of the figures in the Comic 2-packs had been confirmed via the Hasbro Q&A sessions but this is the first look at most of them.  Kyle and the Vong were in the most recent "Insider."

Battle Packs

Two of the Battle Packs belong to the Clone Wars line and the Jabba set had already been announced.  The Scramble on Yavin set has also been announced, and photos shown, but the real gem of is the new Clone Pilot set with Gunship Turrets.

If you notice in the picture, the base of the Turret, where it connects to the arm, is a separate piece from the pronged stand.  The holes in that base should allow it to plug into the Gunships as the old pod did.  And making it even better, they have seats!  Very nice touch.  Now, can everyone track down enough to man all their Gunships?

Vehicles

There were a few photos of the Turbo Tank but I wanted to get these two up as they show the details on the ship.  There are more vehicles shown at Toy Fair including the MagnaGuard Starfighter and Republic Tank but, seriously, we all came for the Tank anyway.

Hasbro

Here is the big one, Hasbro announcements from Toy Fair. 

Things are just staring to roll so stop back as I update and make corrections.

• First up, word is that there will be a mail away Eopie coming this year.
• San Diego Comic-Con exclusive X-Wing Luke Skywalker
• Legacy Collection figures
  • Beru Lars, AOTC
  • Owen Lars, AOTC
  • Hoth Rebel Soldier should have a full jacket, not one that ends at the waist like the first shot photos showed
  • Rum Sleg
  • Padme in purple travel gown from TPM
  • Gungan Warrior
  • Ratts Tyerell
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi - TPM and AOTC
  • Captain Typho
  • Darth Sidious holo on mechno chair
  • Tarados Gon
  • Concept Anakin Skywalker
  • Concept figures throughout the year
• Clone Wars Figures
  • ARF Trooper (scout)
  • Mace Windu
• Build-a-Droids
  • HK-47 (previously announced)
  • U-3PO (previously announced)
  • L8-L9
• Comic Packs
  • Corran Horn & Whistler
  • Kyle Katarn & Yuzhong Vong
  • Luke Skywalker & Lumiya
  • Darth Krayt & Sigel Dare
• Vehicles (Legacy and CW)
  • Clone Wars Y-Wing
  • Turbo Tank
  • ARC-170
  • Republic Tank
  • MagnaGuard Starfighter
  • Vulture Droid
  • AAT Tank (repaint)
• Clone Wars Deluxe Packs (Figure and Vehicle)
  • Clone Trooper w/ Speeder Bike
  • Count Dooku w/ Speeder
  • Anakin Skywalker w/ Can-Cell
  • Battle Droid w/ Tank (TPM repaint)
  • Crab Droid
• 2-Packs
  • 5 2-packs in Droid Factory at Walmart this year including Darktrooper Phase 2 (possible B-a-D?)
  • Geonosis Arena 2-packs at Target including Kit Fist (and assuming Coleman Trebor from earlier Q&A session)
• Evolution sets
  • Rebel Pilots
  • Imperial Pilots
  • Clone Troopers (new Republic Commando, ARC, and one more)
• Clone Wars Battle Packs
  • Jabba the Hutt, TC-70, Nikto henchman
  • Anakin, Ahsoka, IG-86 Assassin Droid, Gha Nachkt
• Legacy Collection Battle Packs
  • Two Clone Pilots, 2 Gunship Turrets - Pilots fit in the ball turrets!
  • Scramble on Yavin: Red Leader, R5-K6, Rebel Ground Crew, Rebel Transport
  • Geonosis Assault: Obi-Wan, Aayla Secura, Super Battle Droid, Jango Fett, Count Dooku
• Transformers
  • Jedi Starfighter (Aethersprite)/Kit Fisto
  • AOTC Jedi Starfighter (Blue)/Obi-Wan Kenobi
  • AAT Tank/Battle Droid

It looks as though Hasbro is also bringing back the PUZZ 3D puzzle line with a Jedi Starfighter, Republic Cruiser, and AT-TE. 

Look for new games as well, the Epic Duels game appears to be coming back only with a Clone Wars theme.  There's also a new game calle AAT Attack which includes a small AAT Tank with disc firing action.

Galactic Heroes continues with some new and repainted items:

• 2-packs
  • Super Battle Droid & Luminara Unduli
  • Clone Trooper & Spider Droid
  • Clone Trooper & Mace Windu
  • Jar Jar Binks & Padme (The Clone Wars)
  • Stormtrooper & Rebel Fleet Trooper
  • Chewbacca & Mouse Droid w/ Death Star Droid
  • R2-D2 & 2 Jawas
  • Admiral Ackbar & Nien Nunb
• Vehicle sets
  • X-Wing Fighter: Porkins, Jan Dodonna, Astro Droid, R5-D8
  • Jedi Starfighter AOTC: Obi-Wan Kenobi, R4-P17
  • Snowspeeder: Luke Skywalker, Dak Ralter, Probe Droid
  • Jedi Starfighter:  Anakin Skywalker, R2-D2

Kotobukiya

Koto has some new items and updates on previously announced statues.

They have a new line called ART FX Plus which will center on The Clone Wars and come in three waves of three figures each.  Each figure will include a part for a Build-a-Figure.

• Jedi: May 2009
  • Anakin Skywalker
  • Ahsoka Tano
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi
  • B-a-F Yoda
• Clone Troopers: June 2009
  • Commander Cody
  • Captain Rex
  • Commander Gree
  • B-a-F Jet Trooper
• Sith
  • Asajj Ventress
  • Count Dooku
  • General Grievous
  • B-a-F Darth Sidious (holo)

The figures in this line should run about $60, are 8-inches tall, and include magnets in their feet to connect them to their base.

A Commander Fox figure was also shown but no further info is available.

Koto didn't show off anything new for their ART FX or Real Mask Magnet lines although there will be another series of magnets coming in the near future.

They also were showing off Chop Sabers which are chop stick lightsabers.  They had Darth Vader and Yoda on display.

Sideshow

The following popped up on Sideshow's website this afternoon.  Could we be getting a Lando Calrissian figure or Leia in her Hoth outfit?

We know that there is a new pre-order coming up next week, could one of these characters be it?

Toy Fair

Some new items from early Toy Fair coverage have come in from Diamond Select and Lego.

Diamond Select

Diamond Select showed off several new Ultimate Quarter Scale figures along with those that have already been announced.  They all retail for about $79.99 and the following were shown with their estimated ship dates.

• Han Solo Hoth: February/March
• Obi-Wan Kenobi ANH: February/March
• Mace Windu: April
• Anakin Skywalker ROTS: May
• Jedi Luke Skywalker: June
• Emperor Palpatine: July
• Obi-Wan Kenobi ROTS: August
• Darth Sidious ROTS: Release TBA
• Han Solo ANH: Release TBA
• Emperor's Royal Guard: Release TBA
• Darth Vader ESB: Release TBA

The Han Solo is not yet a final version and no photography was allowed.

Diamond also showed off new banks including Yoda with his Jedi Council chair from TPM and an unmasked Darth Vader.

Lego

Lego has two new items that have only been rumored to this point.  The first is a new mid-sized Millennium Falcon (7778) which does not include minifigs, has approximately 356 pieces, and will cost about $30.

The second is a Pirate Tank (believed to be 7753) with about 372 pieces, which includes Obi-Wan and two pirates.  This looks to be from the Clone Wars television show.

Previewed in the latest edition of ToyFare magazine is a new set, Mon Calamari Star Cruiser.  It's set 7754 and is a fan choice set due in August.  It has six new minifigs including Ackbar, Lando, A-Wing Pilot, Mon Mothma, Madine and a Mon Cal mechanic.

2-14-2009

Toy Fair

Some Toy Fair reports should start coming in later today so we should have some coverage for you tonight or tomorrow morning.  But, in the mean time, check out the cool info from Hasbro that was released yesterday...

Hasbro

Clone Wars & Legacy Collection

First up is this small, but very cool, photo of the 2009 Turbo Tank which will be coming this fall and should retail for around $100.  As has been mentioned before, this will have lights and sounds, comes packed with a Clone Trooper and will have a speeder bike that can be launched. 

For the Clone Wars line, Hasbro is adding a Deluxe Vehicle line which will ring in around $60 and include a new Clone Wars Y-Wing as well as ships such as the ARC-170.

We'll also see the return of the Deluxe line of figures for The Clone Wars.  This line will feature an action figure and small vehicle for about $16.  This should be the line that features the Anakin with Can-Cell that we saw photos of during the Canada Toy Expo.

Radio Control comes to the Star Wars line with R2-D2.  The figure will sell for approximately $30, stands 6-inches tall and can be moved forwards and backwards, he'll turn and you can spin his head and control his sound effects.

The Clone Wars basic figures will continue and while Kit Fisto has already been announced, we can also look forward to Mace Windu and Commander Gree. 

In the Legacy Collection look for the action figure line to continue with the Droid Factory theme.

Role Play

Both the Clone Wars and Legacy Collection lines will have new role play items including a new Duel Action Lightsaber ($29.99) which will feature a second lightsaber hidden in the hilt which allows you to fight two handed or combine them for a double-bladed lightsaber. 

The Clone Wars line gets the Ultimate Clone Commander Blaster ($39.99) which will allow you to build three different blasters.  You will also be able to select different sounds for different configurations.

The blaster will go nicely with the new Captain Rex Electronic Helmet ($39.99) which features 11 external Captain Rex commands for his troops as well as an internal speaker with seven commands from Jedi Generals, giving Rex his orders.  The helmet also features a voice amplifier and antenna with a working light.

Hasbro brings back the Force FX Lightsaber line, taking over where Master Replicas left off.  Some offerings will be re-releases but we can also look forward to a new Count Dooku lightsaber this year.  And a cool sounding new feature is a display base for the saber that will allow you to display it when it's not in use.

All this and more should be shown off at Toy Fair beginning tonight with a Hasbro presentation to the media.  I'll have more info as it's available.

2-13-2009

Sideshow

Dual Display Diorama

Sideshow announced a new type of diorama series last night called the Dual Display Diorama.  These dio pieces will not only come with bases to be displayed on flat surfaces but they can also be hung from a wall.

The first diorama in this new series is Obi-Wan - Sabotage!  It depicts Obi-Wan Kenobi disabling he tractor beam on the Death Star.  The diorama also has a blue LED that lights up the display.

Per the announcement, this will be up for pre-order "soon."  That might mean over the weekend with their Toy Fair coverage or next Thursday with the weekly newsletter so keep an eye on Sideshow's website if this interests you.  No word on price yet or what the actual scale is but it may be in line with previous Sideshow dios of this type.

Medicom TIE Fighter Pilot

Also last night, the Medicom TIE Pilot went up for pre-order with an estimated ship date of 3rd quarter 2009.  He'll set you back $179.99 which is a pretty decent jump when compared to the Clone Trooper Commander who was only $149.99 and is fully armored.  Guess those price hikes aren't just at Hasbro and not just in the US.

Still, I'm throwing my hat in the ring for an AT-AT Driver from either Sideshow or Medicom...hell, both can do them!  The AT-AT Driver isn't a huge jump from the TIE Pilot so maybe Medicom will get there first.

Sandtrooper

Finally, last night Sideshow announced the edition size for the regular edition Sandtrooper at 3,000 pieces.  Both the regular and exclusive editions are sold out but if you are interested in either you should get on the wait list sooner rather than later. 

2-12-2009

Gentle Giant

Gentle Giant has a channel on YouTube and is now posting video of upcoming items as well as behind the scenes features.  Yesterday they updated with two new videos.

The first is a "making of" look at the Galactic Marine mini bust that was released last year.  The second, and somewhat more interesting behind the scenes video, shows off some new items including Darth Talon, Oola and Snowtrooper mini busts.

The video also covers the new Count Dooku maquette as well as the Han and Luke Hoth buts and Garindan, all of which had been previously announced.

According to a rep from GG, the YouTube videos should be a regular feature so you might want to subscribe to their channel if you're interested.

Hasbro

Hasbro has issued a press release in the run-up to this week's Toy Fair.  Included with Transformers, GI Joe and Wolverine news is one cool tidbit, confirmation on the Turbo Tank.

This is just confirmation of the toy that was shown off in Canada back in January and, presumably, in the UK at their Toy Fair a couple weeks ago.  Fall should mean a probable September timeframe for the release as this will certainly be one of the big items out for Christmas.  It may drop a little earlier if they have it ready to coincide with the new packaging launch for season 2 of The Clone Wars.

2-11-2009

eFX

If you're a prop lightsaber collector then eFX has good news for you, they're now offering the first hilt from the new Star Wars: The Clone Wars cartoon and it's Ahsoka Tano's.  Even better, this new release is signed by Dave Filoni, the director of the new show.

Check out the full eFX press release (PDF version 7.5MB):

Ahsoka's lightsaber is now up for order so head over to their website and reserve yours before they're gone.

2-10-2009

Hasbro

Yavin Battle Pack

Looks like I was a little ahead of the game on announcing the Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack.  It doesn't seem as though that's actually been found yet.

Red 2 X-Wing

Also a follow-up on the Red 2 X-Wing.  There is a photo making the rounds of some online etailers that show the ship along with Wedge, ladders and an astromech droid.  According to some reports, the astro droid isn't listed as being included so I'm not sure yet if that will actually be part of the set or if we'll only get Wedge.

Either way, this is the best X-Wing version available at this point and the added bonus of the ladders is a nice touch, especially seeing as we're getting the Yavin Battle Pack which has a Rebel technician.  Click the photo above for a larger look at this ship.  And hope it's not in the $75 range of that new ARC (even though I'm afraid it probably will be).

Legacy Collection

Walmart was the place to be last night as I found the entire New Hope wave of figures on the pegs.  There were a couple cases as there were multiples of all figures including the Jawa which is packed one per case on this first release.

I snagged two Jawa figures and Luke and Han in Stormtrooper disguise to go along with the Spacetrooper I found on Sunday.  With the shipment from HasbroToyShop.com last week that puts the cap on this wave for me.

If you have a chance to pick up the Jawa with WED droid, do it, it's a great set.  The Jawa is nice on his own but the WED droid is huge, has a lot of articulation, and looks very cool.  Well worth the price, even at the new $7.46 point at Walmart.

Actually, with the exception of Luke and Han, the entire wave is really a winner.  It's looking like the value on the TLC figures may slide as the year progresses so enjoy these while you can.

2-9-2009

Hasbro

If you're looking for the latest wave of Legacy figures, you ought to hit up your local Walmart stores.  Word started coming in last week that they were showing up and I even found the remnants of the wave this weekend.

I'd already picked up Obi-Wan, Brainiac, Wioslea and Trinto Duaba & Dice Ibegon from HasbroToyShop.com but was able to snag the Spacetrooper yesterday.  The Build-A-Droids from this wave are really great looking as well.

Also, the new Scramble on Yavin Battle Pack has been found according to a few reports on the forums.  So, if you're looking for any of the new 2009 sets, start hunting.

Toy Fair

Hasbro

We're just five days from the start of the 2009 Toy Fair in NY City and while Hasbro has kept a lid on most of the items they'll show off, there are a few new things that have popped up that we may get a look at.

The first is a Red 2 X-Wing Fighter with Wedge that showed up on ForbiddenPlanet.co.uk over the weekend.  This is the same mold we've seen in the two Luke versions and Red Leader from TRU a couple years ago. 

I'm also expecting we'll see the Turbo Tank which made an appearance at the Canadian Toy Expo a couple weeks ago.  As far as other vehicles, I'm guessing we see the MagnaGuard Fighter and possibly one other Starfighter vehicle. 

Look for Hasbro to highlight some of their new lines like the R/C vehicles and R2-D2 figures, Clone Wars 2-packs and new Galactic Heroes sets, including the new AT-AT.

On the figure front I'm expecting the ANH wave even though it's already out.  We should also see the Empire Strikes Back wave and probably wave 3 which is from Attack of the Clones.  I think there are one or two more Evolutions sets coming so expect those, and I'm sure we'll see a Battle Pack or two.

For the Clone Wars we should at least see the second 2009 wave and possibly a few more figures whether they are from Battle Packs or the 2-packs I mentioned.

Look for new Mighty Muggs and possibly a handful of Titanium ships.  Role Play items were shown in Canada so we'll probably get a look at the new blaster, at least.  Unleashed and Transformers will probably have a few figures but I'm not expecting much on either front and wouldn't be surprised if we only saw repaints in the TF line.

If there are any other new lines we should see some examples but I think we've heard about most of them (R/C, Deluxe CW figures).  Besides the Turbo Tank there may be a few other items in the new 2009 packaging just so that retailers know what to expect come August/September.  I don't expect to see any store exclusives but that may change, we did see some last year so there's now precedent.

Sideshow

Sideshow won't be attending Toy Fair but look to their website for new announcements on their lines.  Since they don't sell to the main retail outlets I wouldn't be surprised to only see one or two new Star Wars items.

If hey have picked up any new licenses we will probably hear about them as well.  I wouldn't be surprised to see a new offering in the Indiana Jones line but other than possible Star Wars announcements, I'm not really too excited about what they'll offer up.

Gentle Giant

I don't believe GG will be at Toy Fair this year either but, as with Sideshow, they don't sell to the regular retail market so their presence doesn't necessarily gain them anything.  Look online for them to announce new items in their Star Wars and other lines.  Other than the Stormtrooper Commander statue and Darth Talon mini bust (I believe it's a bust) that they've given sneak peeks at, I won't hold out hope on a lot of new stuff.  Maybe some finished photos of the 4-LOM and Han Hoth, but not much new.

Hopefully they'll surprise.

Lego

We already know most of the 2009 line so I'm not looking for much, if anything, from them.

The Rest

Diamond Select should be at Toy Fair and may have some new 1:4 scale figures or at least a look at some of the announced stuff like Jedi Luke.

Most of the other license holders don't really sell toys so I don't know if they'll have any Toy Fair news, at the show or online, but we'll be sure to keep an eye on the various websites over the weekend.

We'll have updates and try to aggregate the news for you and offer a one stop shop for all your Star Wars news.

2-2-2009

Hasbro Pricing

Well, I ranted about price increases the other day and yesterday I found some new ones, and they're kind of ridiculous.

I didn't price out all the Star Wars lines but I did a few and compared them between Target and Walmart and here's what I'm seeing in central NY:

Line	Target	Walmart
CW/TLC/SL Figures	$7.99	$7.46
Comic 2-Packs	$12.89	$12.88
Starfighter Lines	$19.99	$24.77
Titanium	$8.19	$6.96
Transformer Crossovers	$15.99	$16.76

The Unleashed and Galactic Heroes lines were about the same but I didn't track them at either store, they're running about $10 for Unleashed and $6.99 or so on the GH figures.  I also didn't price the role play items as not all stores carry the same stuff locally.

At the end of 2008 when I did my yearly Best & Worst list I picked the Titanium line as a Worst Value in the Vehicle or Playset category and if we are looking at this type of price hike it only confirms my opinions on the line.  Granted, retail sets the final price that we're seeing on the pegs, but it makes you wonder where the MSRP on some of these items fall. 

If we're going to see prices like these across all the major retailers it's going to be a long, slow year of peg warmers, delayed waves and pain in the wallets.

Hasbro

JediDefender.com scored a cool preproduction sketch of the Willrow Hood figure that will be coming later in the year in the second Empire Strikes Back wave of figures.  Head over to their site to check it out. 

I'll be honest, I never paid that much attention to the character in the film, but it looks as though he's decked out, basically, in an X-Wing Pilot outfit.  Very cool. 

2-1-2009

Happy Birthday Yoda's News

This just in from Mark over at YodasNews.com

Congratulations to Mark and all the Yoda's News staff.  Head over to their site and good luck with all the contests.