Darth Vader - Jumbo Vintage Kenner Figures

Is there any figure that we wanted more as kids than Darth Vader? First released in Kenner’s Star Wars line in 1978, it could easily be the symbol of Star Wars collecting. The awesome action figure was taller than the regular male “human” figures in the line like Luke Skywalker and Han Solo. What’s more, he came with a black vinyl cape that had enough pliability to be configured in a few different ways for some cool versatility. And what about that awesome telescoping lightsaber (and if you were fortunate enough you had a lightsaber that telescoped twice – yes, it’s super rare to the point of almost being nonexistent anymore)? Gentle Giant Ltd. has decided to regenerate these classic figures of old, but in a new, unique and very exciting way. Taking them from 3.75” scale to 12” scale is what they decided to do and they’ve created a high-end collection of masterpieces that will be proudly displayed as the centerpieces in the collections of vintage lovers. The Jumbo Vintage Kenner Figures are made from rotocast vinyl, which is somewhat controversial for some. This means the figures are hollow, although we’re of the opinion that they have healthy weight and mass and are worthy of their price tag.

The Jumbo Vintage Kenner Figure line not only takes the classic vintage basic figure line and makes them larger, but Gentle Giant Ltd. also has taken the key parts of the original packaging design and refreshed it to fit this format the best. Then they packaged them in clear clamshell plastic cases which not only protect the figure and large cardboard insert inside of it, but also maintains the integrity of the collectible it is with secure safekeeping. Darth Vader will undoubtedly be the most sought after figure in this line. In fact, we’d bet that people who may have no other interest in the line will indeed be searching to make the Darth Vader release in this line part of their collections. And the rightfully should. Gentle Giant Ltd. has done an incredible job on Darth Vader. Every last detail has been perfectly recreated here and we’re so impressed with how incredible the figure looks at this heightened scale. From the simple red and white details on his chest box to his aptly colored removable lightsaber blade, Darth Vader will certainly bring back a lot more than just a few memories you have of your time with his distant 3.75” scale relative.

Darth Vader comes fully articulated, but we should probably explain that this means he comes with the same five points of articulation the vintage figure has. (Hey, we live ins a super-articulated world now – those spoiled brats!) The telescoping lightsaber functionality works like a charm and can attain its pose at various lengths just like the original. And the vinyl cape is removable and you can decide to pose Darth Vader without it if you so choose. These figures come with the same inscribed date stamps and foot pegs as the Kenner figures too. Every last detail has been replicated here. Gentle Giant Ltd. truly made no shortcuts anywhere to ensure the greatest amount of accuracy for the collectors of this line. The Jumbo Vintage Kenner Figures line are indeed limited. Some edition sizes are larger than others, but Gentle Giant has not been too clear and upfront about releasing these numbers consistently. They’re certainly not withholding this information, but it just isn’t communicated in the same fashion like the edition sizes of their Mini Busts or Maquettes lines are. Darth Vader is the one must-have figure from this line. Save your cash and get him. That’s only if you can find him!