This week's toy reviews cover MotU's 200X line, retro Star Wars vehicles, and Japanese tokusatsu shows.
This mid-October lull in the toy and collectibles reviewing scene brings us a quiet but varied mix. Highlights include a focus on nostalgia with the Masters of the Universe (MotU) Origins 200X collection, a look back at the 1995 Star Wars Power of the Force TIE Fighter, and detailed reviews of some classic and newer Japanese tokusatsu series.
Masters of the Universe Keeps Fans in the Fold
Over at Super-Duper Toy Box, the focus is on the Masters of the Universe (MotU) Origins 200X Cartoon Collection. The reviewer notes a personal transition from initial disinterest to being pleasantly surprised by the figures, particularly the 200X He-Man. This collection updates characters from the 200X animated series, bringing them into the Origins line with new features like a properly oriented wrist hinge on He-Man’s sword hand. It’s clear that even fans who weren’t initially drawn to the 200X series can appreciate the dedication to character detail. For collectors with similar inclinations, this update brings a satisfactory blend of nostalgia and innovation.
Retro Star Wars: Power of the Force TIE Fighter
Also from Super-Duper Toy Box is a nostalgic look at the Star Wars Power of the Force TIE Fighter from 1995. It’s noted for improvements in sculpt compared to earlier models, despite lacking some of the interactive features like lights and sounds found in the ’80s Kenner versions. Collectors interested in affordable vintage Star Wars merchandise might find this a noteworthy entry, especially since related accessories like the TIE Fighter Pilot and figures are reportedly inexpensive and readily available.
Japanese Tokusatsu: Daitetsujin 17 and Kamen Rider Zeztz
Moving onto the realm of tokusatsu, My Shiny Toy Robots delivers a retrospective on “Daitetsujin 17,” a live-action show from 1977. It marks a period where giant robots firmly cemented their place in Japanese pop culture, leading to future productions under the Toei banner. This series continues to be celebrated for its innovation and foundational role in the genre.
The blog also reviews the more recent Kamen Rider Zeztz: Series of Sister’s Substory Agent Minami, a miniseries available through the Toei Tokusatsu Fan Club. Although each episode is brief, the companion series extends across 50 installments, offering fans an expanded universe experience within the Kamen Rider franchise. This spin-off highlights an often secondary character, providing a deeper narrative layer for enthusiasts of Kamen Rider Zeztz.
While this week may not offer groundbreaking revelations, it does provide an eclectic mix of nostalgia and genre staples that should capture the interest of collectors and fans alike.
