OBI-WAN KENOBI Star Wars: Republic
30th Anniversary Collection Comic Book Packs
Item No.: Asst. 87504 No. 87519
Number: #07
Includes: Alternate head, lightsaber, ARC Trooper Alpha, comic book
Action Feature: Swap head for capture mask
Retail: $9.99
Availability: Summer 2007
Appearances: Several Star Wars Comic Books 2002-present

Bio: Obi-Wan Kenobi is sent to the rain-soaked world of Jabiim, where the war is going badly for the Republic forces. The AT-AT walkers are mired in mud, the opposition leader eludes capture, and much-needed reinforcements will not arrive in time. With the support of the ARC trooper Alpha and Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan launches a major attack... but will it be the last battle he ever fights? (Taken from the cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' TV tray.

Commentary: Taking a cue from its G.I. Joe range, Hasbro finally introduced the comic book plus figure set to a galaxy far, far away. For most of the first two waves, though, the products were redecorated figures or flat-out repaints, leading to some unique designs like this Obi-Wan Kenobi figure based on the Clone Wars. The figure itself uses a body and legs from a 2002 release, but adds soft goods, retools the belt, adds new arms, a new head, and a new robe. The end result is a figure that's practically all-new and super-articulated. Sure, the hard cloak keeps him from sitting, but it also helps him stay standing in any Jedi kicking duels you might be setting up. The figure's sculpt is top-notch, with wonderful textures throughout his garments and the kind of articulation you wouldn't expect as part of a value priced two-pack. As an added bonus, you can swap his head with the "prisoner hood" head included or with the head of the 2005 Obi-Wan Kenobi from which this figure was designed. A little head swapping made easy never hurt nobody, and it makes this good figure even better.

Collector's Notes: Very easy to get and priced right, this is a can't-miss figure. It's packaged with a Clone ARC Trooper named Alpha, which has a removable helmet and is also essentially super-articulated. For the price, you won't do better, and I can't say I expect Hasbro to ever do a better non-armored Clone Wars version of General Kenobi. If you like the Clone Wars premise, you absolutely need to own this comic pack.

Day 513: October 1, 2007