Luke Skywalker/R2-D2 - TAC - Comic Packs (No. 06)

By the time Hasbro knocked out the first three Comic Packs based on Marvels’ interpretation of Star Wars, collectors didn’t feel secure with any future ones based on this source. Hasbro for the most part chose figures with inferior articulation and many still couldn’t figure out why they brought over the blue shadowing from the comic inks to the action figures. Interest rose however with the release of the Luke Skywalker/R2-D2 Comic Packs set. Not only were both figures stellar sculpts with a great deal of quality articulation, the paint jobs were also excellent. In fact, once Hasbro eliminated the blue shadowing on Luke Skywalker during a running change, this set became one of the finest in the 30 (77-07) line. Based on Marvel Comics’ Star Wars #4 comic book, collectors are treated to new and interesting takes on two of the saga’s most famous heroes. With a replica comic book from the 70s and two premium action figures, this set is a steal for less than ten dollars. Besides, you know you always wanted a white R2-D2, right?

Luke Skywalker has been designed the same way Han Solo has from 2006’s TAC Chewbacca/Han Solo (No. 04) Comic Packs two-pack. A kit-bashed figure, Luke Skywalker has been cobbled together with 2004’s VOTC Stormtrooper arms and belt, the legs of 2006’s TSC Sandtrooper (SAGA 037) and the head from 2004’s VOTC Luke Skywalker. The figure has also been repainted in the colors of the comic book, and as we have mentioned, reissued with the blue shadowing removed from Luke Skywalker in later releases. The figure has its share of plusses and minuses, but overall is the best version of Luke Skywalker in his stormtrooper gear to date. (Editor’s Note: This figure was repainted and released as 2009’s TLC Luke Skywalker (BD 30) in movie accurate colors.) With a wonderful 23 points of articulation, the figure will certainly appease most collectors, but we feel that the legs are positioned too closely together to allow for much meaningful movement. Stormtrooper bodies must have ball-jointed hips and until this happens, there isn’t much need for ball-jointed knees and ankles.

R2-D2 may be the most exciting figure here. Obviously keeping in mind that this figure is based on an animated appearance in the comic books, it’s been expertly painted and will suit anyone’s collection well as a generic astromech droid (if you have issues accepting him as R2-D2). Based on the hugely popular 2005 ROTS R4-G9 Sneak Preview (4 of 4) figure, the action figure is well designed and comes with a few fun features. If you twist the dome the third leg can be raised or lowered. And the droid also comes with swivel legs and swivel feet. The paint job on R2-D2 is extraordinary. The droid is mostly white, but where there is color it’s applied very cleanly. The “black” paint used is pearly (or sparkly) in nature and the bright light blue used to accent the figure is a perfect match for the comic book colors. Definitely the best of all the Marvel inspired sets, the Luke Skywalker/R2-D2 Comic Packs is one that you’ll want to have in your collection for certain. The set is simple and may not be realistic enough for hardcore collectors, but there is no denying that it has something special about it. (Editor's Note: Special thanks to Jayson Krebsbach from Yakface.com for the reference images. Editing by Jedi Temple Archives.)