Category Archives: Collecting News

Toyguide Update: TBS #13 Stormtrooper

TBS13_preview

The Yakface Toyguide updates resume with our next entry in the The Black Series 3-3/4″ line. Today, we take a look at the Stormtrooper (#13).

PROS: Although army building isn’t much of a thing anymore with today’s figure prices, this Stormtrooper is a pretty decent version if you were so inclined. The figure uses the ultra-articulated body (the one with ball-jointed hips) and includes the newer E-11 blaster sculpt that features the collapsible stock. For good measure, Hasbro included a second blaster rifle for additional display/play options.

CONS: From the samples I have, there seems to be varying degrees of paint app quality from figure to figure – most notably on the helmet. Also, since this uses the Sandtrooper mold, the slot to accept the backpack is still present which may be a distraction, but only if you are really looking at the figure from behind. Lastly this figure includes a holster (cannibalized from the TAC20 Stormtrooper) but due to the bulkier design of the E-11 blaster, it doesn’t fit in the holster very well.

Head to the toyguide for the full image gallery and to judge for yourself whether this piece is worth adding to your collection.

You can also weigh in with your impressions on the figures we add to our toyguide on facebook and in our forums.

Toyguide Update: TBS #09 R2-D2

TBS_r2_preview

The Yakface Toyguide updates resume today with our next entry in the The Black Series 3-3/4″ line. Next, we take a look at R2-D2 (#09).

PROS: With all of the countless releases R2-D2 has gotten over the past few years, it is nice to see a mold crop up that hasn’t been used ad nauseam. The sculpt overall is very clean and the deco has a very tight application. As R2 figures go, it’s completely adequate.

CONS: A little bit bland in terms of deco – a nice wash would have served this figure better. The figure does have a slight knock against it as the ports that accept the snap-on booster rockets (when not in use) are prevalent. The absence of the booster flames from 2007 take some of the fun out of the presentation.

Head to the toyguide for the full image gallery and to judge for yourself whether this piece is worth adding to your collection.

You can also weigh in with your impressions on the figures we add to our toyguide on facebook and in our forums.

Toyguide Update: TBS #14 Mara Jade

mara_preview

The Yakface Toyguide updates resume today with our next entry in the The Black Series 3-3/4″ line. Next, we take a look at Mara Jade (#14).

PROS: It’s been a long time coming, but the 2011 Fans’ Choice winner, and perennial EU fan-favorite figure has finally been released. This latest version of Mara Jade sports all the articulation one would require (save for ball-jointed hips) and is well accessorized featuring lightsaber and hilt, blaster and a reconfigurable holster capable of being placed in one of two positions. The sculpt is great, except…. well, you know.

CONS: Oh, that hair. While it is sculpted well, it suffers from being cast as separate piece which is glued to the head. This design choice gives her more of a “wearing a wig” look that effects the overall aesthetic negatively.

Head to the toyguide for the full image gallery and to judge for yourself whether this piece is worth adding to your collection.

You can also weigh in with your impressions on the figures we add to our toyguide on facebook and in our forums.

Toyguide Update: Boba Fett “Bounty #239” Mythos Statue

mythos_boba_preview

The Yakface Toyguide updates resume today with a look at the Boba Fett – Bounty #239 Statue, the latest statue to be released from Sideshow’s Star Wars Mythos line.

PROS: You’d be hard pressed to find anything wrong with the pieces in the Mythos line and this one is no different. Top to bottom, the Boba Fett statue is an amazing achievement in sculpt, paint and presentation.

CONS: A gorgeous piece only limited by its premium price tag.

Head to the toyguide for the full image gallery and to judge for yourself whether this piece is worth adding to your collection.

You can also weigh in with your impressions on the figures we add to our toyguide on facebook and in our forums.