After all the scalper talk and the custom building posts out there, I decided to whip up some downloadable (clean & dirty) decals for you faithful readers. Based off the Target Clone, I also made Blue and Green versions as well. Just drag each jpg above to your desktop, print’em on label paper, cut’em and bingo – CUSTOM CLONES! Put them on the ROTS clones, retro fit your AOTC clones or even slap them on the VOTC Stormtroopers too! (Notes: Images are 300 dpi so some final tinkering with final output percentages maybe required)

Problems With Exclusives… Again. Cont.
May 6, 2005 | 11:31 AM EST | Jair

I want to thank everybody who sent their opinions about this article. Here is one that was totally different from all the rest. It’s good to sometimes hear a different opinion.

Yak Reader Brian sent the following:

I was reading this article posted on your website and figured I’d
write in with my opinion.
I personally do not have a problem with scalpers. I know scalpers
are everywhere but it’s a problem you just have to deal with.
Take the upcoming Target clonetrooper exclusive for example.
I see no problem with someone buying every one they see
Maybe they’re buying them all for army builders or displays.
Star Wars collectors know how hard it is to find almost any item
produced in a year when there’s no movie coming out, and every movie
year has it’s own, “hard-to, but not impossible to find” figures.
If you’re a serious collector, you know this fact, as tragic and
“wrong” as it is, and should be more active in getting out there
and making the effort to find that particular exclusive.
I have, many times myself, have had to pay an enormous amount of
money for exclusives. In 2002, I was lucky enough to get a
Toyfair Vader from the Star Wars website….but had to resort to
Ebay for my Jorg Sacul figure. I believe the 2 balance each other out.
I don’t live near Disneyland or Disneyworld, and was
“extremely happy” to pay $50-60.00 for my Star Tours figures

I have about 4 or 5 Target stores in my area, and wasn’t mad when
I missed out on the Lava Vader. My feeling was, “oh, well,
someone else beat me to it.”
The Red Guard? I have p found in my area 6 of them since April 2nd.
I build displays, as well as keep one packaged,so I scooped them all up.
I’m also still on the look-out for even more to finish my displays.
Star Wars collecting is supposed to be fun, and it is if you make
it fun. The ones who do not enjoy collecting are the ones who sit
in their homes, wait for the news that an exclusive has arrived, then
go out and search for it. Scalping is, and has been a consistant problem
with collectors since the return of the Star Wars line, and it will only
get worse in the coming years when Hasbro stops producing large quantities.
I find Ebay to be a rather excellent “last choice” place to find
the items I can’t find in stores.
So, to all the people who complain daily about scalpers ruining their
hobby, I say this: Learn to deal with it, and move on. There’s probably
items in your collection that I don’t have. It’s just the way it is.
If you find you really need the item and have to resort to Ebay….
don’t complain. Nobody’s making you pay outrageous amounts for the item.
So, in ending this,if you decide to post this, I hope people will
read another point of view and understand the dynamics of
collecting Star wars figures. You won’t always get everything, but
should be satisfied with what you get. There’s enough out there.
I would also not mind hearing from people who agree or disagree
with my views: please email me at
scorch72@hotmail.com
Brian

So, even though I don’t agree with what Brian wrote in, I respect his point of view. Again thanks to everybody who wrote in…

Wipe Them Out – All of Them!
May 6, 2005 | 10:47 AM EST | Jayson

Fellow MN collector Ryan just informed me that the Target Exclusive Cases have indeed been ordered to be returned to the vendor due to card-fitting problems. But the vender DOES NOT want them back and have ordered for them to be destroyed! Ryan also said that they were removed from Hasbro’s site and the Hasbro online Toy Shop. No word yet on a possible remedy to the situation.

Over At Walmart.com
May 6, 2005 | 7:59 AM EST | Hfsolo

Head on over and pick up the Star Wars Revenge of the Sith: AT-RT with AT-RT DRIVER, it is in stock now… $14.86

They also have the NEW Yoda w/Cancell $9.96

Couple More Figs In Stock
May 6, 2005 | 7:53 AM EST | Hfsolo

Revenge of the Sith Figure: Vader’s Medical Droid
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Clone Commander
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Royal Guard (Blue)
Revenge of the Sith Figure: AT-TE Tank Gunner

Topps Etched Foil – The Big Picture
May 5, 2005 | 11:35 PM EST | Keri

If you collect Topps Star Wars trading cards, you have been enjoying the etched foil puzzle inserts that debuted in the Galaxy set. Within the Heritage series, there was a wave 1 Hobby and retail set of cards as well as a second wave of Hobby Boxes issued due to the popularity of the set and the artists’ sketch cards.
The Wave 2 Hobby boxes came with some all-new artists added to the line-up as well as another set of etched foil inserts to collect. With the advent of the ROTS movie card set and yet one more etched foil insert, the news came of all 3 sets of 6 cards fitting together to make one large scene. After having acquired my Wave 2 Heritage Hobby Box this afternoon and enjoying my sketch card score from it, I put all the etched foil cards together to make the scene. It is quite impressive in person and a very nice and fun addition to collecting the card sets. Enjoy the photos of the front and back, which make their own unique scenes.

How Lightsabers Work
May 5, 2005 | 10:53 PM EST | Mark B

Ok, this is the best article I have seen in a long time. With all the hype about Episode III, How Stuff Works has the lowdown on how the Jedi’s weapon of choice functions.

Side Show Variations!!!
May 5, 2005 | 9:45 PM EST | Bill

This just in from Yak Reader Chad:
Just wanted to send an email to inform you guys that if you missed out on the Darth Vader Sideshow exclusive that you can still find it online at collectorsnetusa.com

I called in to inquire about the web site as a new customer and ended
up talking with the manager on the phone. A very nice and informative guy who told me about the VARIATIONS of the new Darth Vader and General Grievous Sideshow statues.

The exclusive Darth Vader will come with a mouse droid and an extra
death star base. This is the one he has listed on the website at the same price on the manufacturer’s website. He said the other Darth Vader statue will be listed soon and assumably the price will be lower.

The General Grievous statue that is a Sideshow exclusive has a cape
that comes with the statue and retails for $450. The nonexclusive does not have the cape and is the item listed on the collectorsnetusa.com website. The big difference is the price… About $100 cheaper sans cape. He proceeded to tell me that Sideshow is notorious for variations even on these higher end collectibles. Sounds like we are in for more surprises from Sideshow. Also heard some rumbling about a possible Sideshow 12″ Star Wars line.

Early Bird Goes For $10
May 5, 2005 | 8:20 PM EST | Hfsolo

Here is the latest as our roving reporter Scott just called in from KY. He is there on vacation and still digging up news for everyone.. At the local Wal-Mart they have the Early Bird kit on sale for a whopping $10!!!! They had about 15 there.. so check your local Wal-Marts.. you never know..

2 New Commercials at the OS!
May 5, 2005 | 5:12 PM EST | Jayson

The Official Site has updated tonight with 2 new commericals with a much darker feel than the previous TV spots. One debuted during MTV’s TRL yesterday and the other I caught during the WB’s Smallville. Avoid these like the “Plagueis” if you don’t wish to be spoiled! ; )

Amazon Hits Again…
May 5, 2005 | 8:31 AM EST | Hfsolo

Looking for any of these???

Revenge of the Sith Figure: Vader’s Medical Droid
Revenge of the Sith Figure: AT-TE Tank Gunner
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Royal Guard (Blue)
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Clone Commander

Problems With Exclusives… Again.
May 5, 2005 | 12:56 AM EST | Jair

It seems that every few weeks we discuss about how impossible is to get a figure because it’s an exclusive and scalpers take advantage of the situation. It really sickens me, especially living outside the US because that means I definitely have to rely on e-Bay to get any rare figure. As I said before, there is nothing wrong with exclusives, what’s wrong is that stores order Hasbro a limited number of them or Hasbro just makes a limited number for whatever reason. Instead of making 50,000 Lava Vaders or Articulated Clones, make 250,000 or more… Can’t they realize that they will make 5 times more money?

I came back from C3 hoping to exchange one of my C3 Vaders for a Lava Vader (which by the way was $8.00 more expensive than the Lava Vader at retail, with the case)… no one on e-Bay wanted to accept the trade. To me that says it all, none of the people I offered it to was a collector, ok, maybe a couple who told me that they already had it, but the rest were just not interested in even getting it so I assume they were scalpers.

There should be like a Club or something that guarantees real collectors one of every exclusive out there. Too bad I just don’t see how that can happen, but if someone has an idea please let me know. I remember back in C2 I finally got the Darth Maul Speeder Electronic Game that has a rare Maul figure. I paid 60 bucks for it back then. I knew it was a lot but I’m glad I bought it back then because the only one I saw at C3 was selling for 250 bucks!!! It should be available to everyone for the $29.99 it originally cost.

I really wish everyone good luck getting all these hard to get items, and if you see more than one rare or exclusive figure get it for a friend you know needs it, but don’t take advantage and become one of those undercover thieves who we all hate a.k.a. as scalpers. If scalping concert and sports events tickets is a crime, shouldn’t scalping collectibles be a crime also?

Cheezeits Poster Not Cheezy!
May 4, 2005 | 9:45 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Dan sent this in today:

Hey all——–if you happened to send in for one of these they are
shipping. It is honestly one of the coolest looking posters I’ve seen in regards to ROTS. Very well done and the cheezits logo is very small and at the bottom and really doesn’t detract. I actually am debating framing it as the artwork is that nice on it.

Boba Fett And Darth Maul Attacktix Debut
May 4, 2005 | 9:43 PM EST | Bill

Hasbro has just updated with new photos of the upcoming Boba Fett and Darth Maul Attacktix figures. Check them out here. Thanks to Yak Reader DBC503 for the heads-up.

Brainfreze Have I
May 4, 2005 | 9:39 PM EST | Bill

7-11 stores have just started putting out a surprise for Star Wars fans– Yoda Slurpee mugs– these are shaped like Yoda’s head and even have a cap that screws shut. Be sure to check your local 7-11– they’re priced to move at $2.99!

Target Clone Trooper Feedback
May 4, 2005 | 9:37 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader DCL sent in his perspective on the Target Clone situation:

I wanted to write because as so many collectors I too have hit my local target here in sunny CA’s San Fernando Valley hoping to get just one clone trooper. No I did not get one, but yes I saw an ample supply for many fans to buy in 1 gentleman’s arms as he walked past me. I mistook him for someone who worked stocking shelves at target because he was actually carrying them in a cardboard “Hasbro” box. “I’ll grab one of those from you right now!” I said in an upbeat tone as we passed far from the toy aisle and so close to the register.
This guy gave me a look and said “these are mine” and followed it with a real **** off look on his face.
“are there any left?” I asked gesturing to the toy area. “not any more” he said followed by a guttural “huh huh” laugh, walking away as if I was the loser and he was the bigger better man.

I stood silent and dis hearted, I wanted to let loose on him, especially after I did once last month as I witnessed 2 guys the day after midnight madness at toys r us actually play blockers keeping 2, ten year old kid’s at bay as a 3rd guy hoarding all the “most wanted figures” from the pegs. They did not care or even hear me. Outrageous! This time I t decided to be cool and let my venting be a letter to your websight and in hopes you post this story as I believe in your collect to collect policies and remind people that the toy’s are out there… somewhere and not to increase these slime’s businesses by paying big money for toys now…be patient, I have amassed a collection to rival anyone’s but it is for myself and sure sometimes it takes weeks, months and in some cases years (as in my newly acquired FAO exclusive Famba) but when I do find my wanted figures they are at normal retail prices and it feels good.

Jason in SC had better luck, here’s his report:

I had good luck today in Anderson, SC. I went to the Target and punched in the figure’s DCPI number into their price check scanners they have on the ends of the aisles and it showed that the exclusive Clone Troopers were in stock. I asked a lady to go and see if they were indeed there and told her I wanted two and she came back with them in her hand. They also had all of the new wave figures (3’3/4” and deluxe expect for the AT-TE tank gunner). That number is 087061489. Go try it and see if it works for you.

Finally Yak Reader Scott took a more analytical approach:

Like everyone else I have been scouring all the local Targets in my area (I live in Atlanta) looking for the “elusive exclusive” Target Clonetrooper. Today I checked with the service counter and they told me there was initially a street date of May 8 for these, but they have received an email from corporate indicating that if people ask for them specifically, they can be sold before then.

However, among multiple stores I called, most report they have sold what they have gotten in.

I started checking prices on Ebay and I have come to this conclusion. Since April 20th approximately 1200 auctions have taken place. There are approximately 300 going on now. Initially prices started at around $40 a pop, but they have dropped to a low of $16 to $17 a figure.

Now then, if you figure that some of those auctions are actually the Cup and Trooper set, and likewise assume an average of 3 troopers per auction (which may balance out the numbers for people selling cases) that adds up to roughly 5000 units.

The production numbers for these are at 50,000 so that still leaves (theoretically) 45,000 of these figures out there. With the price dropping like it is, I think the scalpers will soon start seeing it’s no longer lucrative to sell a $13 figure for a profit of $2, especially if we all are patient and refuse to buy on Ebay.

Just one man’s opinion, but perhaps this will give some hope to those like myself who can’t find this guy.

This PC Is From A Galaxy Far Far Away
May 4, 2005 | 9:28 PM EST | Bill

Introducing the First Ever Star Wars PC – the Alienware Aurora: Star Wars Edition PC! From Darth Vader to Luke Skywalker, the timeless characters you know and love have been transported from the big screen to your desktop to create the first-ever Star Wars PC.

Packed with exclusive Star Wars content and next-generation technology, each Aurora: Star Wars Edition system displays showstopping case designs featuring official artwork of either the intimidating Imperial forces or the fearless Rebel alliance – the choice are yours! Check it out here.

New Figs At Amazon.com
May 4, 2005 | 7:42 PM EST | Hfsolo

Back in stock at Amazon..

Revenge of the Sith Figure: Mas Amedda
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Polis Massan
Revenge of the Sith Figure: Palpatine #35

Revenge of the Scalpers Leads to Custom Clones
May 4, 2005 | 12:52 PM EST | Keri

A fellow YakReader and collector wrote in to share his wonderful custom Clone creations, which took form after disappointments regarding heavy reports of scalping the Target exclusive Clone Trooper. He writes in to say “Since I can’t find the exclusive Target Clone Trooper (I heard that people in my area were buying anywhere from 12-30 at a time) and I don’t plan on finding one, I thought I’d make my own clones. Enjoy!”



Not only are the customs very well done, but it definitely is a healthier alternative rather than complaining or spending extra money to buy one on Ebay, therefore supporting scalping as a whole.

Vader Lamp
May 4, 2005 | 8:54 AM EST | Hfsolo

Over at Kbtoys.com they have this cool Vader lamp.. They also have free shipping and some newer figures in stock.. Mas Amedda, Vader’s Medical Droid, Palpatine #35..

Grievous Now at StarWarsShop
May 4, 2005 | 12:19 AM EST | Mark B

So, if you haven’t gotten your 1/4 scale General Grievous ordered from Sideshow Collectibles yet, you now have a choice of where to order. He is now also available from StarWarsShop.com.

For the younger crowd, they also have the new PLUSH lightsabers!

 

---

 

Yak Readers Take Care Of Their Own
May 3, 2005 | 9:24 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader DBC503 please Email me here, I have a message for you and I can’t find the domain for your Email.

UPDATE: One of our readers contacted us to hook DBC503 up with the cards he was missing. A big thanks to Yak Reader Mike in for stepping up to the plate!

 

---

 

PS2 Game Missing Ticket
May 3, 2005 | 8:27 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader ANBAfansent in this report and question:

“Last week’s target circular from April 24-30th had the PS2 and Xbox versions of Lego Starwars advertised for $39.99 each and included a free movie ticket to see episode 3. I bought a copy of the ps2 version yesterday and saw clearly that the pricetag stated that the free ticket was packaged INSIDE the game.
When i opened up the game at home the ticket was nowwhere to be found!! I was wondering if you can post this topic on the main page and see if any other Yakface readers fell to the same trap that I did. I complained to target regarding the matter and wanted them to either refund me the value of the movie voucher or let me return the game all together eventhough it was opened.
This is false advertising in targets part and though I patronize them at least 4 times a week this upsets me that target would make this mistake.”

Drop us an Email and let us know if this was an isolated incident or more tickets were missing.

 

---

 

Target Exclusive Clones Update
May 3, 2005 | 7:51 PM EST | Bill

Start checking your Target stores NOW! We’ve confirmed at the manager handling the toy area at a local Target that corporate apparently sent out Emails to employees saying there is NO STREET DATE on the Target Clone Troopers. This manager reported they’ve gotten in and sold 2 cases already, and he has no idea if they will get more. Good luck!

MORE UPDATES:

Yak Reader Erik sent this in:

I just read your update on the clonetroopers street date. I’ve been hunting at targets all over the Las Vegas area, specifically about 5 different locations. So far there have been 2 cases each at 3 different stores put on shelves and sold within a couple of hours. One store had pegs with the actual item number and price for them at the top right of all the pegs with the 3 ¾” figures, while another store just placed them on an endcap next to their newly arrived battle arena sets. I’ve spoken to several employees at each one that expressed disappointment about not limiting customers to just one, with some customers buying up to 4 or 5 at once. All of the employees I spoke with initially thought the figures wouldn’t be released until ‘may or june’ and were shocked and disappointed to find out they came into work that day and the figures were already sold out. just thought I’d let you know!

 

---

 

C3 Vader Reports Update
May 3, 2005 | 7:48 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader DBC503 sent in this report:

I just got my order today and they arrived dead mint. I have heard a lot of reports of damaged ones showing up so I thought I would send in an email. My order was from 4/28 and did not include the cases. They were wrapped real nice in bubble wrap. Only problem was my free gift of the Sith promo card was missing and crossed off my invoice with no explanation. Small price to pay for case fresh figures. Hopefully more people have the same experience!

 

---

 

Tattooed Jedi and Sith
May 3, 2005 | 5:46 PM EST | Keri

While we await an upcoming article on starwars.com regarding the tattoo contest and winners that were crowned at Celebration III, PAIN Magazine has a nice online article regarding Star Wars fans and their ink.

From arm sleeves to entire pieces that encompass a back, this article has great photos and an interesting look at the fans who choose to sacrifice their own flesh to Star Wars imagery. It also makes mention of a great website devoted to Star Wars and other Toy related tattoos, which is Shane Turgeon’stattoosandtoys.com Shane’s site has amassed an extensive gallery of Star Wars tattoo art for everyone to enjoy which I find to be impressive, most impressive.

To read the article entitled “Star Tats” in PAIN Magazine, click the link here.

 

---

 

New Items In Stock At EE
May 3, 2005 | 2:43 PM EST | Hfsolo

Hi Folks,

Now that everyone has rested from C3, we wanted to share with you a
bunch of items that are in stock now!

BASIC FIGURES SIDEKICK IN STOCK:
SW EIII Basic Figure Sidekick / Floor Display (Item# HS14440A, $179.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS14440A

BASIC FIGURES IN STOCK:
SW Episode III Collection 1, Wave 3 (Item# HS85173C, $79.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85173C

SW Episode III Collection 1, Wave 3, Rev. 1 (Item# HS85173C1, $79.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85173C1

SW Episode III Collection 2, Wave 3 (Item# HS85174C, $79.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85174C

SW Episode III Collection 2, Wave 3, Rev. 1 (Item# HS85174C1, $79.99
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85174C1

VEHICLES IN STOCK:
SW EIII Assault Vehicles Wave 2 (Item# HS85196B, $169.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85196B

SW EIII Assault Vehicles Wave 2, Rev. 1 Set (Item# HS85196B1AA, $84.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85196B1AA

BUDDIES IN STOCK:
SW EIII Battle Buddies Assortment 1 Set (Item# HS00940AA, $29.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS00940AA

DELUXE IN STOCK:
SW Episode III Deluxe Figures Wave 1 (Item# HS85182A, $74.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85182A

FORCE BATTLERS IN STOCK:
SW Episode III Force Battlers Ast. 1 Set (Item# HS85179AA, $54.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS85179AA

Thanks for posting!
-Jason

 

---

 

Target Clone Trooper
May 3, 2005 | 12:58 PM EST | Scott

Looks like that supposed May 8th release date for the Target Exclusive Clone trooper is a moot point as I’ve received reports of them being found (or narrowly missed) at Targets everywhere.

Yours truly scored one last night at my local Target (Rochester Hills, MI). So don’t bother waiting until May 8th, the hunt is on now.

 

---

 

ROTS Soundtrack Exclusives
May 3, 2005 | 12:35 PM EST | Scott

Remember, today the soundtrack for Episode III is released in stores nationwide, but before you rush out, you should know that you have a choice to make.

Wal-Mart’s version of the soundtrack includes a coupon with a code allowing you to download an exclusive interview track with composer John Williams.

Target also has a digital download coupon but it’s for an exclusive version of Battle of the Heroes with dialogue and sound effects from the recently released music video.

 

---

 

NEW POLL – Star Wars: The TV Series
May 2, 2005 | 9:24 PM EST | Scott

It had been rumored for months, and at Celebration III, George confirmed it, there will be a live action Star Wars television series in the near future!

The series is to be set in the period between episodes III and IV and will feature familiar characters from the prequels and the OT. (NOT the O.C.)

Now Yakface wants to know, what are your feelings about it? Can’t get here soon enough? Or are they beating the post Episode III Star Wars horse into the ground? Check out the poll on the right and weigh in!

 

---

 

Hasbro Goes Retail!
May 2, 2005 | 8:20 PM EST | Bill

It’s finally open– Hasbro Toy Shop.com has opened its virtual doors. It looks like the new deluxe wave may have already sold out, but there are still a number of new items available check it out here.

 

---

 

NEW Yoda/Dt. Pepsi Commerical
May 2, 2005 | 8:11 PM EST | Jayson

The Official Site also updates tonight with the currently running Yoda/Dt. Pepsi spots which has the diminutive Jedi utilizing a couple Jedi mind tricks in order to acquire a meal and a soda. Chewy also makes an brief appearance.

 

---

 

NEW Art of Revenge
May 2, 2005 | 8:07 PM EST | Jayson

 

Continuing with the Mustafar theme, The Official Site updates with a new Art of Revenge photo for Hyperspace subscribers. This week’s photo titled “Mustafar Collection Plant” shows (highlight to read) a rendered view of the Mustafar Collection Facility which ILMers used to plot out the final lightsaber duel of the saga.

 

---

 

Celebration III items now available.
May 2, 2005 | 1:23 PM EST | Jayson

shop.starwars.com now has exclusive Celebration III items for sale, but noticably missing is the Celebration III Vader Action Figure.

 

---

 

Episode III Press Kit
May 2, 2005 | 10:44 AM EST | Hfsolo

 

If any Yakface readers want to be on the fast track to being my best friend, then hook me up with one of these…

Yakface reader Matt sends us pics and an extensive description of the official Episode III Press Kit. Click the pic above for all the info, but SPOILER warnings are in full effect.

Thanks for the news Matt!

 

---

 

TIME Magazine goes Sith!
May 1, 2005 | 11:49 PM EST | Keri

 

This week’s cover of TIME Magazine, soon to be on sale everywhere, features an ominous rendering of everyone’s favorite Sith Lord Darth Vader. Inside is a interesting and informative article. (Yes, featuring SPOILERS!)
There is also a photo essay from Episode III, a family tree, a Q&A with the creator himself George Lucas and some mentions of a few nice “Easter Eggs” in the film itself that you can look for when we all get to see it on the big day!

Click on through the link below to get a preview of the article online here.
Please note, if you wish to remain Spoiler-free DO NOT CLICK the link or read the magazine!

 

---

 

Federation Toys Newsfeed
May 1, 2005 | 9:59 PM EST | Bill

just wanted to say hi and thank everyone who stopped by our booth at STAR WARS CELEBRATION III, we had a great time and it was nice to meet so many fellow collectors and fans, and to put faces to all those names! Thanks again to all. We have a lot of new ROTS products in stock now and more on the way. here is the link to our new arrivals page below, we will also have the CELEBRATION III DARTH VADER with Collectors case, and STORM TROOPER CORPAL MINI BUST for sale tomorrow night, make sure to check back as supplies are limited. (limit of 1 per person for the exclusives!) Thanks for your understanding.

http://www.federationtoys.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=FT&Category_Code=NA

We will also be updating the site with POTF, POTJ, EPISODE I, and more items be sure to check back in the next few weeks. Luke FX Saber from Empire Strikes back is in stock, comes with display case and as always free S/H In the USA Only. Make sure to stay tuned for details on all the new Master replicas items coming soon. we will email as soon as we get more ITEMS AND INFO. we hope you have a great day.

Click here to order.

 

---

 

C3 Vaders Arriving From Star Wars.com
May 1, 2005 | 9:19 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader’s Troxey C3 Vader arrived somewhat worse for wear. Hopefully this is an isolated incident. Here’s his report:

I just got my C3 Vader from Starwars.com and it is completely smashed. The star case and the top of the figure bubble are both very damaged. The box it was sent in is very narrow. It barely looks wide enough to hold the figure and case. Needless to say I am very disappointed.

 

---

 

Target Figure Cases Update
May 1, 2005 | 9:16 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader CrunchyNug sent in this analysis:

I just read your post about people having problems with their new Target collector cases. Here’s the problem. There are actually TWO different cases – one that came with the exclusive Lava Vader and one that came with the exclusive Clone Trooper. They are different. The Vader case does not fit the new cards, whereas the Clone case does fit the new cards. Unfortunately, the 5-packs being offered contain the Vader cases. I hope that Hasbro has caught on and fixes the problem soon. On another note, the Clone case is MUCH more sturdy than the Vader case.

 

---

 

Collector Unity and SITHstrong
May 1, 2005 | 8:21 PM EST | Scott

These were two of the cooler freebies available at Celebration III. The first one being a collaboritive effort on behalf of the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society, The Ohio Star Wars Collectors Club and the DC Metro Area Star Wars Collecting Club.

Each club offered one “pie slice” of a larger patch which, when combined, formed this awesome graphic of Vader’s flaming head. The Ohio and Pennsylvania patches could be easily had at their Fan Fair booth, but the DC patch was the “chase” piece of the set. You had to spot the DC rep sporting a T-Shirt with a logo of the patch on it somewhere in the convention center. No small task given the thousands of fans on hand. One of the coolest aspects of the piece is that it’s officially licensed by Lucasfilm! Way to go to anyone who scored a complete set.

Second was this neat Lance Armstrong style rubber wristband given away by the Star Wars Shop / Pride Displays booth. This cool little piece has Revenge of the Sith embossed on one side and starwarsshop.com on the other. They were offered in Adult and Children’s sizes.

Click the images for a larger view. They are also archived in the Various Stuffsection of our C3 coverage.

 

---

 

More C3 Photos Added
May 1, 2005 | 7:57 PM EST | Scott

 

NEW PAGES Photos from the David Prowse / Kenny Baker presentation have been added, as well as a few snaps from inside the Fan Fair Hall.

Plus, A few new photos have been added to the Costumed Fans section as well as the Various stuff section.

 

---

 

The Force was with him!
May 1, 2005 | 6:59 PM EST | Jayson

Today, Jeff Gordon won the Aaron’s 499 Nascar race… his car made the whole race without incident and what makes it even more special is that Yoda was his co-pilot! Well sort of, his car was adorned with a huge graphic of the Jedi Master on the hood and he even gave Star Wars and Episode III a nice “plug” when he was in the winners’ circle. WAY TO GO YODA!… I mean Jeff.

 

---

 

Target Star Case Reports Update
May 1, 2005 | 12:16 AM EST | Bill

We’ve gotten an Email box full of reports following-up on our story earlier this week about problems with the Target exclusive Star Cases. A few Yak Readers report that they have had no problems if the bubble is placed perfectly on the card, however most have echoed our initial report, that the cases tend to be too short, causing varing degrees of bending to the hanging hook on the card.

 

---

 

Do The Frozen Dew Darth!
May 1, 2005 | 12:13 AM EST | Bill

Tomorrow is supposed to be the official release day for the 7-11 Darth Vader Slupree cups and cup toppers, however a lot of stores started selling them today. The topper is a mini-bust of Darth Vader similar to the Episode 1 Taco Bell cup toppers (although it’s thinner material). There are also 4 lenticular plastic cups to choose from as well. Also, 7-11 has released Darth Dew, a supposedly black slurpee (actually it’s dark purple).