Mattel Toys Sucks. Period. They cancel lines blaming lack of fan base support while they themselves offer the products o market in the most piss poor manner possible. I went out on a limb with these reviews as a fan trying to push the product. In the end Mattel showed that they are not worthy of mine or your accolades or MONEY. I’m not editing the reviews however. At the time of their writing I meant what I said and in regards to the figures themselves I feel the same way, however the emotional connection is gone – Signed, Jim 01/14/12
Introduction
This latest release from Mattel’s DC Comics Retro Action Super Heroes is another hit right out of the park. While for me Hal Jordan will always be the one and only Green Lantern, I accept the fact that the Corps is a much larger entity. And now thanks to the 8 inch style of figures these other Corps members are being released I’m even more inclined to invite them all into my Toy Box. In all seriousness though the line is improving with each new release. More costume details, improved bodies and of course Mego style goodness these figures will continue to grow on the hardcore Mego fans if given a chance and for the new recruits of 8 inch collecting as well.
Point #1. What it is.
Point #2. Where it came from.
Point #3. The Good.
There is a lot of good to say about this fellow. As you all know by now dear reader I’m a sucker for lots of bright colors. This guy delivers there in spades. I’ll let the pics do the talking…
Point #4. The Bad.
The bad points that I will highlight really have nothing to do with the figure itself. For all intents and purposes Guy here is perfect. The problems that have been noted by other collectors that I myself did not experience is that the shipping company that Mattel is using is a bit less than collector friendly. Reports are that the white mailer boxes are being inserted into bubble wrap envelops are being crushed in transit and in turn ruining the packaging and in some rare cases the figure itself. Again I did not have this problem.
While the snap doesn’t really take away from the look of the figure I still would prefer Mattel switch out to the Velcro fasteners as used on other figures such as the Ghostbusters. However I do understand how Mego purists would really frown on that change. Still, these aren’t Mego’s so I don’t see the modfication as being a problem.
The only other gripe I can say is that the Heroes are now outnumbering the villains. How fair is that? Seriously I do like the way Mattel has kept the regular released Waves balanced between the two. There is a Yellow Sinestro variant as part of these Matty exclusives but like many other fans I think we would be a happier lot if we saw completely new figures instead of variants. However considering the theme of these exclusives it makes sense.
Point #5. Why I like it.
More Retro Action figures are always a good thing in my book. Especially considering all the extra touches this guy has. Form his unique boots and belt to his snarky expression this “Guy” delivers. My hat is off to Dr. Mego and EMCE for the prototype work that they did on this one.
Point #6. Why you should or shouldn’t get one.
Why you should:
The look of this figure is well worth the $20 plus shipping. With the enhanced bodysuit (see turtle neck) and the white striping accents (see vest and pants) this “Guy” looks like a million bucks.
Why you shouldn’t:
The only real reason I would steer you away from purchasing this figure is the possible mailing issues. Again I myself had no problem but if you are a true stickler for Mint condition items you may want to wait until these surface on ebay. While Mattel has a good reputation of making good on orders you may want to strike a deal with a seller that you may be able to get a more direct line of communication with.
In Conclusion
Guy Gardner is another great figure from Mattel and I must say that the end result of their efforts is well worth your time, attention and cash. I myself love the fact that the line as a whole continues to grow. Hence why you’ll find some group shots that I am very excited to post. It’s like a Saturday Morning cartoon coming to life in awesome 8 inch Mego style! Now Go Play! – Jim 05/30/11
Jim Bumgardner is a 20 year veteran of the broadcast industry and currently serves as the news director for television station TKO 8 in Harrison, Arkansas. Jim is the father of two the husband of one and firm believer in the power of toys for both the mind, body and soul. You can contact Jim via email at jimstoybox@gmail.com or visit his website at www.jimsmegos.com
All images and products are the sole copyrighted property of it’s respective owners. Specialty photographs and graphic work used for this article were done by Jim at the TKO 8 Studios located at 500 N. Main St in Harrison, Arkansas. “Little Jim” was created by Dawn O’Connell of Little Buddies Action Figures. Learn more about getting your own Little Buddy at www.littlebuddiesactionfigures.com
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