Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) - SW [S - P1] - Basic (’02 #01)

Should we be more thrilled that Hasbro added a retro action feature to Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) or more irritated that they’ve included a retro action feature? To be or not to be, that is always the question, it seems. In this case, it’s hard to fault Hasbro for introducing the very first figure in the Star Wars “Saga” line in a classically timeless manner, but modern technology makes it difficult to appreciate the available limited technology of the past. And in this case, Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) comes across a little too contrived. The figure isn’t without its charm, but in the grand scheme of collecting, you may find yourself frustrated at what the figure can’t do, instead of the work that went into the figure to be kitschy at best. Despite its failures, we have to acknowledge that there is some delightfulness with this action figure. Ignoring the retractable blue lightsaber (an accessory this character didn’t ignite while wearing this outfit), the paint job on the costume, in particular, is notably gorgeous. There are some other benefits to the figure as well. They include accessories that are exciting and fun and add value to the five dollar price tag.

Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) certainly isn’t free from issues. There are probably more issues than benefits here. For example, the figure has the wrong color hair. The left hand is too wide open to grip the included blaster (though it is “Force attracted” thanks to magnets. Our sample doesn’t have a strong magnetic pull, however). And there is no explanation on the packaging about the included storage container, its purpose for the action figure, or its role in  Star Wars Episode II: Attack Of The Clones. Was it at the Lars’ homestead, or was it from scenes when they traveled incognito? The poncho is nicely sculpted and fits over Anakin without any noticeable bulkiness, and it has exquisite detail. Plastic molded clothing also hangs nicely on action figures in general. If you decide to keep the poncho on Anakin, you’ll find that the upper body movement becomes inhibited to the point of nearly being immobile. When you remove the poncho, underneath is a fair representation of Anakin Skywalker. The figure is in a slight action pose, but it isn’t too drastic. Save for the head sculpt, the paint operations on the shirt and pants are pretty fantastic. (Editor’s Note: Not even the paint job on 2011’s TVC Anakin Skywalker (Peasant Disguise) (VC32) comes close to the paint job on this figure.) The pattern on the shirt, in particular, is especially impressive.

Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) is an action figure designed with kids in mind first, and then collectors second. With only six points of swivel articulation, you’re not going to be able to get a ton of poses from it. But the figure’s lack of movement may not bother you because when you look at the figure completely accessorized, it looks excellent. Outstretched arms and legs never really look good on any action figure. We have to say that we are particularly taken with the storage container accessory despite getting paired with a lackluster action figure. We’re sure someone out there may be able to pinpoint the exact time increment that it appears in the film or what it “actually” is, but we think it will be a significant enhancement to your dioramas or display shelves. There is room to store small accessories inside of it, and when you open up the lid, it becomes a monitor, just like a computer or television screen. (A round rolling magnet “locks” down the cover.) Overall, you may decide that Anakin Skywalker (Outland Peasant Disguise) is an action figure to skip. Unless you’re a one-of-everything collector, there aren’t many reasons that exist to explain why you need to own one. The accessory is excellent, but unless you’re willing to drop money for that alone, you might be disappointed.