Tag Archives: Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back

You saw our The Pathway To The Vintage Collection Special Report published on August 6th. Now let’s revisit the figures that set The Vintage Collection in motion. Let’s continue moving ahead with 2004’s VOTC Yoda figure in our newly updated review, complete with new text and photos and Visual Guide.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Han Solo (Bespin Outfit). Han Solo (Bespin Outfit)’s Trilogo card art features a slightly lighter image of the character’s card art. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting 1981’s THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK Han Solo (Bespin Outfit) figure HERE.

You saw our The Pathway To The Vintage Collection Special Report published on August 6th. Now let’s revisit the figures that set The Vintage Collection in motion. Let’s continue moving ahead with 2004’s VOTC Lando Calrissian figure in our newly updated review, complete with new text and photos and Visual Guide.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Dengar. Dengar’s Trilogo card art features a revised crop of the interior of the Executor. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting 1981’s THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK Dengar figure HERE.

You saw our The Pathway To The Vintage Collection Special Report published on August 6th. Now let’s revisit the figures that set The Vintage Collection in motion. Let’s continue moving ahead with 2004’s VOTC Darth Vader figure in our newly updated review, complete with new text and photos and Visual Guide.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Yoda. Yoda’s Trilogo card art features an alternate right-facing image used for the running change American Return Of The Jedi version of the figure. The name of the character was also changed to Yoda, The Jedi Master. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK Yoda figure HERE.

This year’s Celebration Anaheim may have been canceled, but JTA is still celebrating the 40th Anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back with our latest card back set: Series 4: The Empire Strikes Back 40th Anniversary.

This series was initially slated to be our Celebration Anaheim 2020 give-away, so we decided to continue with the set to celebrate 40 years of Empire. You can pick up this 14-card set over in our store. And, if you are new to our large format trading cards you can catch up on the entire run (including this series) in our 48-card master set.

Full Story

There’s another 6″ Boba Fett to worry about for your collection! Did you secure The Black Series [Phase III] 6″ Boba Fett (Carbonized) figure? It’s very pretty! (more….)

Thank you for reading Research Droids Reviews: Season 12!

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Bespin Security Guard [A]. Bespin Security Guard [A]’s Trilogo card art is unique because it’s a hybrid. The front of the card looks like a standard Trilogo Return Of The Jedi figure, while the back shows all of the figures in the Trilogo line. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Bespin Security Guard [A] figure HERE.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Lando Calrissian. Lando Calrissian’s Trilogo card art is notably different than its American Kenner counterpart. The image of Lando Calrissian is horizontally flipped and they added bright orange flooding of light that covers most of the character, presumably to imitate the reflection of the orange Bespin sky. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Lando Calrissian figure HERE.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Han Solo (Hoth Outfit). Han Solo (Hoth Outfit)’s Trilogo card art isn’t much different from the American Kenner packaging. The character’s name was changed to Han Solo (Hoth Battle Gear). The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Han Solo (Hoth Outfit) figure HERE.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Luke Skywalker (Bespin Fatigues). Luke Skywalker (Bespin Fatigues)’s Trilogo card art is a significant departure from the American Kenner packaging. In fact, no other vintage Star Wars card art utilizes this image except for the Trilogo version. It features an alternate take (and different pose) of the “close up” shot Kenner utilized for the running change image, and it’s also flipped 180 degrees horizontally. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Luke Skywalker (Bespin Fatigues) figure HERE.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit IG-88 (Bounty Hunter). IG-88’s Trilogo card art is quite a departure from the American Kenner packaging. The Executor background is completely eliminated, and in its place is an all-gray backdrop. Also, they dropped “Bounty Hunter” from the character’s name. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS IG-88 (Bounty Hunter) figure HERE.

It’s a miracle Hasbro made another vehicle in The Black Series [Phase III] 6″ line, but the only reason this one exists is that it’s a Fan Channel exclusive. They’ll probably never again offer another vehicle at Big Box retail again. That aside, we know 6″ collectors will love the Snowspeeder/Dak Ralter set, but 3.75″ collectors will know immediately that Hasbro went cheap on its design. (more….)

Thank you for reading Research Droids Reviews: Season 12!

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Rebel Soldier (Hoth Battle Gear). Rebel Soldier (Hoth Battle Gear)’s Trilogo card art doesn’t vary all that much from the 1980 Kenner release. The biggest difference is the revised character name. The Trilogo card back refers to this character as Rebel Soldier (Soldat Rebelle). The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Rebel Soldier (Hoth Battle Gear) figure HERE.

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Imperial Stormtrooper (Hoth Battle Gear). Imperial Stormtrooper (Hoth Battle Gear)’s Trilogo card art doesn’t vary all that much from the 1980 Kenner release. There are some pink elements on the Trilogo version that aren’t present on the American version, but nothing out of the ordinary. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting 1980’s STAR WARS Imperial Stormtrooper (Hoth Battle Gear) figure HERE.

The Empire Strikes Back is #1 at the box office again, thanks to drive-in movie viewership! Entertainment Weekly has the full story!

In 1984, new packaging for Star Wars figures was introduced for the European market. A cost containment initiative, the new packaging sported three languages of the Return Of The Jedi logo for a “one size fits all” approach. Although a “three-logo” design was created for The Power Of The Force line (as evidenced on some ‘boxed’ toys), it wasn’t carried over to the basic figure line’s card design. They continued to use the three Return Of The Jedi logos instead. Although the word “Trilogo” is found nowhere on the packaging, the term is universally adopted by all Star Wars collectors to describe this line of figures.

Today we revisit Princess Leia Organa (Bespin Gown). Princess Leia Organa (Bespin Gown)’s Trilogo card art features the same image from the first version of the original Kenner card art, but this time the background was changed to a gradient orange and white, perhaps to give a contrasting background to Leia’s milky skin. The character’s name also changed, as Kenner and related companies attempted to standardize the way they described Star Wars characters. The review’s Collector Notes are updated with this information. See the full card art and additional notes by revisiting the 1980’s STAR WARS Leia Organa (Bespin Gown) figure HERE.

We have our next The Black Series The Empire Strikes Back 40th Anniversary Visual Guide update tonight, featuring the Amazon exclusive Han Solo (Carbonite) “figure”. Click below to check out our full Visual Guide page. You can also read our full review in our review database.

The Black Series [The Empire Strikes Back 40] Han Solo (Carbonite) is artificially getting passed off as a figure. Don’t be fooled. It’s an accessory. That’s all it is! Did you get one before they sold out? (more….)

Thank you for reading Research Droids Reviews: Season 12!

The Black Series 6″ collectors are likely very happy about now. Hasbro finally re-released an accessory from seven years ago to help them complete their collections. Part of The Empire Strikes Back 40th Anniversary lineup, Han Solo (Carbonite) is repainted and comes with nothing else but a three-part display stand. You can see our full gallery and review early RIGHT HERE.

A short while ago it was announced that Disney would bring the 4K version of The Empire Strikes Back, which is available on Disney+ and Blu-Ray, to cinemas in the UK and elsewhere. However, now Variety reports that apparently talks with exhibitors broke down and the 4K version will not be shown in theaters after all. Instead a standard 2K version will be screened. No reason was given why the talks broke down or why exactly the 4K version will not be shown.
The next question is if all that many people would actually be eager to watch an old movie they have seen countless times before in a theater with other moviegoers. Cinemas across the world are waiting for the first new big release in months: Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, scheduled for an August 12th release date. Unless the movie gets delayed for a third time. Anyway, for Star Wars Fans it means that you can only watch the 4K version of The Empire Strikes back in the comfort of your home.
But do you think about going to the movies again at all? Or ist that not an option for you at the moment?

I am altering the deal!

Tonight we are adding the newly released Amazon exclusive Bounty Hunters (40th Anniversary Edition) (4-LOM/Zuckuss) to our Visual Guides. Click below to check out this The Black Series exclusive. Make sure to also stop by and check out our full review of this set right here.

Hey Hasbro! Stop stealing ideas from The Vintage Collection and using them in The Black Series 6″ line! The Bounty Hunters (40th Anniversary Edition) (4-LOM/Zuckuss) is a 6″ version of a The Vintage Collection product. It’s still cool, though. We have it all for you to see in our 52-image gallery; comparison pictures and all! Check it out! (more….)

Thank you for reading Research Droids Reviews: Season 12!

Isn’t the HyperReal line supposed to give collectors realistic interpretations of on-screen characters? Then why does Luke Skywalker look more like a 5″ Galaxy of Adventures figure instead? Thank the Maker we won’t be seeing any more of these. See why this figure is a disappointment. (more….)

Thank you for reading Research Droids Reviews: Season 12!