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A few months back, we got word of a Transformers X Star Wars crossover release and today, as part of NYCC, it was officially revealed as the The Mandalorian/N-1 Starfighter. It is a Walmart exclusive with limited availability through Hasbro Pulse.

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.

It looks like Hasbro will be getting their chocolate in their peanut butter again and releasing a Star Wars X Transformers collab. It’s unknown what the vehicle/ship mode will be or what the bot mode is, but if I had to speculate, I’d say Mando/Grogu related.

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.

Hasbro has released a teaser video for their upcoming Hasbro Pulse Con 2021 announcing the livestream dates for October 22 & 23, 2021. This two-day event will feature product reveals, exclusive preorders, behind-the-scenes info from Star Wars, Marvel, G.I. Joe, Transformers, Power Rangers and more!

DorksideToys is currently running a clearance sale offering discounts on Star Wars (TVC and TBS), Marvel, and Transformers.

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Sponsor DorksideToys has launched their Black Friday sale with discounts on Black Series, Vintage Collection, Galaxy of Adventures Marvel Legends, Power Rangers, Transformers and more!

The St. Louis ToyMan Show returns this Sunday, May 5.

With over 200 dealer tables, you never know what vintage or new Star Wars, Marvel, GI Joe, Transformers or He-Man items you might find, and often at great prices!

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