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A new Ren Helmet and Ren Legacy Lightsaber Hilt will be available November 17 at DisneyStore.com 8am PT.

Hasbro is planning to offer (what I assume is) another kid targeted, inexpensive line called “Hydro Pods“. There is not a lot to go on at this point but features Aqua Armor figure assortments, vehicles/accessories like the X-wing and TIE Fighter, mystery figures and more. In a way, this sounds like the previous “Fighter Pods/Micro Force” line. Star Wars isn’t the only brand playing in the Hydro Pod pool, Marvel and Transformers will also have similar items in their sections.

Will this be another one of those stop-gap lines like the aforementioned Fighter Pods or Battle Bobblers? I guess we’ll officially hear about whatever Hydro Pods are soon as products are already arriving in the U.S.

As we approach the official launch of the next Vintage Collection Haslab project at SDCC, I thought this would be an opportune time to ramble on some changes I’d like to see for future campaigns to ensure success for not just Star Wars, but all Haslab projects.

Give Collectors A Voice
I think the collecting public at large should have more hands-on involvement on what gets selected for the campaign. Sure, focus groups are convened to bounce ideas off, but Hasbro’s collector base is so large, I think focus groups are too narrow an avenue for a true gauge on what should be made. A series of voting campaigns could be held to determine a list of possible options whereas the top three compete against each other in a final round. The runner up gets moved to the following year’s final round of voting.

Show Us the Tiers
We’ve watched several Haslab campaigns now, and I get the idea about stretching out the promotions of said campaigns with the incremental reveal of each tier. The needle doesn’t move much as each tier is met so I say lay them all out on the table from the outset. The selling point of the Haslab should be the project itself, showing the add-ons right away as other companies do, promotes transparency and doesn’t come across as a last ditch effort to get it to fund. (I’m looking at you Rancor Keeper).

Pricepoint Preview
Prior to a campaign launching, I think it may be time to let collectors know months before a specific Haslab what can be expected in terms of pricing. Nothing specific, maybe a price range that is being considered. Many collectors support multiple lines and with that, multiple Haslabs per year from Star Wars, Marvel, G.I.Joe, Transformers etc.. Knowing in advance the pricepoint range from each brand’s campaign may allow for better planning, faster funding, and as a result, more successful Haslabs.

Competing Campaigns
As stated previously, collectors often support multiple lines and having one Haslab start as another (potentially) is charged to bank accounts may in fact inadvertently hurt each campaign. Quarterly-held campaigns (especially for years with $500+ projects), could give collectors the finanical planning cushion they need to support what they like/love and to ensure successful campaigns.

Nothing earth shattering but something I think could be worth exploring at least in part by Hasbro and the brand teams. What do you think and what other changes would you like to see? Leave a comment below.

Entertainment Earth has sent out preorder proceessing and shipping notifications for the first wave of Black Series ROTJ40 figures, the ROTJ40 Retro Collection figures, and the Black Series Mara Jade and Dr. Aphra comic figures. Hasbro Pulse is also starting process preorders for the exclusive TVC Figrin D’an and The Modal Nodes set.

If you need to get your finances in order, now’s the time.

Two more Target exclusive repaints were revealed today as part of Bring Home the Galaxy as Marvel.com announced two comic-inspired variants for the Vintage Collection Boba Fett.

Marvel Vintage Comic Art

Marvel 1990 Comic Art Edition

Update: Preorders now open

Collectors who preordered their Black Series Princess Leia Organa and Darth Vader (Redeemed) Comic/Publishing figures through Hasbro Pulse have started to receive them over the last couple of days. These two figures close out wave 2 and now collectors eagerly anticipate the next wave which is rumored to include Mic from Scar Squadron/Task Force 99 and Mara Jade.

Preorders are now open for the SDCC Exclusive Black Series Boba Fett (in Disguise) figure. Be sure you’re signed in with your Hasbro Pulse account to order.

Update: Sold out (for now)

InDemandToys has also posted images of the rumored Black Series Boba Fett (In Disguise) figure from the Marvel War of the Bounty Hunters comic series.

Hot Toys has reveals the first of their summer convention exclusives with the 1:6 scale Boba Fett (Arena Suit) figure from War of the Bounty Hunters comic:

The collectible figure is skillfully crafted with all-black Mandalorian helmet and armor, a black jumpsuit, a jetpack, a spear, a pair of blaster pistols, a blaster rifle, and a display base!

This unique look of Boba Fett will surely be a great addition for any Star Wars collector!

For the full gallery, check out Hot Toys website or their Facebook page and watch preorders to open soon at SideshowCollectibles.com