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Packaging - ***
I wasn't too impressed with the packaging - at first. It's very retro,
which seemed a little bland initially. But the bubble is very sturdy,
they are fairly small, and allowing you to actually see what holographic
figure you're getting with each one gets Hasbro some extra points. I
also like the scenes placed on the cardback behind the figure, giving them a
posed look inside the package.
Sculpt - ***1/2
One thing that Hasbro is doing with many of these re-done characters is
improving the sculpts. That's pretty evident here, as Barada gets a
much sharper, more defined, and highly detailed visage. Considering
the scale, the amount of detail is quite impressive. He does have a display
stand, but have no fear, for he stands just fine on his own. His left
hand is sculpted to hold his weapon, and the right hand can hold it as well
- or perhaps an extra frosty mug of alien drink, when he joins the guys at
the Cantina. Everyone needs a last drink before taking a fateful barge
ride.
Paint - ***
The paint work on the face is impressive, with some detail added even to the
small teeth. The work on the various packs on his belt and back is
nice as well, but I could do without the wash used over the white
shirt. As usual, they went a little overboard, and it ends up
detracting from the appearance a bit.
Articulation - **
Some of the new figures have new and improved articulation. Poor
Barada doesn't get that lucky.
He has neck, shoulders, waist and hips. That's pretty limited,
considering the treatment some of the other characters have received.
Fortunately, he can stand well, and he can point his blaster. That's
about it.
Accessories - ***
Barada has his blaster, and a display stand. If that were it, he'd be
lucky to get two stars in this category. However, Hasbro went with the
new holographic figure as well.
My Barada came with Darth Maul, although every one is packed
randomly. I saw Vaders and Yodas and Solos and Troopers and even more,
all packaged with multiple characters.
The detail appears pretty good on these, although it's usually tough to
tell with clear plastic. Getting a good look at the details is tough
without any paint. The construction is good, but you'll want to be
careful with those that have light sabers, as these were fairly thin.
Fun Factor - ***
Oh, he's not the most articulated, but kids will overlook that. He's a
nasty looking bad guy, perfect for destruction at the hands of Luke
Skywalker or dad's lawnmower.
Value - ***
Perhaps it was just the shock of paying $10 for a Batman figure, but
these are still under six bucks. Add in the holographic figure - which
is cool unless your one of the poor unfortunates trying to collect them all
- and you get an above average value.
Things to watch out for -
The holographic figures with sabers, like Vader or Maul, could end up
getting broken, but that's about the extent of anything to be careful over.
Overall - ***
Had this figure not came with a holographic figure, I wouldn't have felt
compelled to buy him. I won't be trying to get all the holo mini's
though, so I picked up only the one I found most visually interesting - I
skipped another Boba Fett or Han. I feel sorry for folks trying to
complete all the holo's, because I have my suspicions that it will get
tougher over time, but Hasbro was kind enough to allow you to see what
you're buying, removing any foolish purchases that could result in duplicate
figures for you.
SCORE RECAP:
Packaging - ***
Sculpt - ***1/2
Paint - ***
Articulation - **
Accessories - ***
Fun Factor - ***
Value - ***
Overall - ***
Where to Buy -
Check out Andrew's Toyz for all
your Star Wars needs!
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