R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) - 1:6 Scale Figures

There are a lot of R2 units across the galaxy, but there is only one R2-D2. Fresh off the factory line and available only as a special convention exclusive, the R2-D2 "Unpainted Prototype" Sixth Scale Figure is our favorite plucky little droid ready for a new round of adventures.

Based on the R2-D2 Deluxe Sixth Scale Figure, everyones favorite astromech has been re-imagined as an unpainted prototype droid with a distinctive monochromatic silver finish. Equipped with hinged panels and articulated light-up dome, this unique limited edition exclusive will be an excellent addition to any Star Wars collection!

Sideshow has been making some great choices for their 1:6 Scale Figures line. But can we pause for a moment and question what they were thinking with the R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) 2016 Convention Exclusive? It’s really not that bad of a figure, but with all of the astromech droid options out there how in the world didn’t they pick one of them instead? Likely a Sideshow Collectibles concept (we can’t find reference materials anywhere for this version of R2-D2), the R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) is basically R2-D2 without any white or blue paint. Instead, we have R2-D2 in silver and black. R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) is very vintage inspired, but we don’t think he has the charm to win over discriminating collectors. Utilizing the popular 2015 R2-D2 (Deluxe) sculpt, Sideshow Collectibles dumbed the sculpt down quite a bit to make a very basic astromech droid sculpt as possible, which in all honesty works well for an exclusive like this.

R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) is a highly detailed sculpt regardless. He comes with a rotating dome, articulated terrain tread legs and an articulated and retractable third tread leg. Instead of a billion different compartment and arm attachments, this time we only get four access compartments with hinged panels and no arm attachments. Additionally, R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) comes with a light-up logic function display, processor state indicator and a holographic projector. These glowing features light up beautifully and reflect the true personality of this favorite astromech droid. Because this is more of a novelty 1:6 Scale Figure than anything else, we’re actually quite thankful that Sideshow Collectibles didn’t include a ton of extra attachments. This is a great display piece, but that’s it. You’re not going to want to include this figure in a display or diorama, unless you’re utilizing it for another generic background droid (which in all honesty might actually work).

Reserved for a 2016 convention exclusive, R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) is designated as a Limited Edition run figure. This also means collectors will never know how many units of this figure were produced. The figure also had a set MSRP of $149.99, but Sideshow Collectibles graciously placed the figure on sale for 19% off and collectors could secure it for $120.00 flat. This of course is a significant help in a time where collectibles’ prices are skyrocketing and incomes aren’t going anywhere. R2-D2 (Unpainted Prototype) may not appeal to all 1:6 Scale Figure collectors. We have to say that we’re not too impressed by it either. With the R2-D2 (Deluxe) figure we were quite smitten (aside from the manufacturing issues) with it. This one doesn’t do all that much for us. But as a niche exclusive we’re sure there will be a market for it. Obviously this figure can only be obtained at Sideshow Collectibles. It will be interesting to see how well it performs after the 2016 year passes us.