The relentless foot soldiers of the Confederacy of Independent Systems marched back into The Vintage Collection in 2021 as part of Wave 31. This reissue of the Battle Droid captures the lanky, skeletal combatant as seen across the prequel trilogy, specifically modeled after their tan-colored appearance in The Phantom Menace. Originally released in 2012, this 2021 version was a high-demand "army builder" refresh, essential for collectors looking to bolster their Separatist forces with a modern, super-articulated B1 unit.
Technical Details & Sculpt
- Design & Mechanical Sculpt: The sculpt is an engineering feat for the 3.75-inch scale, maintaining the thin, spindly proportions of the B1 droid while providing enough structural integrity to stand. It features the signature elongated "head" and backpack unit, with a texture that replicates the matte, industrial finish of a mass-produced war machine.
- Deco & Weathering: The 2021 reissue features a "desert tan" base color with a significantly improved paint application compared to the original. It includes a subtle dark wash that settles into the mechanical joints and panels, giving the droid a "field-tested" look appropriate for the invasion of Naboo.
- Articulation: Featuring premium TVC articulation, including ball-jointed shoulders, elbows, and knees. The unique neck joint allows for the signature "folding" posture seen when the droids are in storage or being deployed from a Trade Federation MTT.
- Display Utility: This is the ultimate "mass-display" figure. It is best showcased in large squads or "ranks" behind Darth Maul (VC86) or Daultay Dofine (VC82) as they advance on Theed.
Accessories & Equipment
The Battle Droid comes prepared for high-volume combat. He includes the standard-issue E-5 blaster rifle, which features a specialized peg that allows it to be "stowed" on the droid's backpack when not in use. A standout feature of the 2021 release is the removable backpack unit and the swappable antenna, allowing collectors to customize individual droids within their army to represent different ranks or operational roles.
Quick Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Series | Star Wars: The Vintage Collection |
| Number | VC78-REISSUE |
| Source | The Phantom Menace |
| Release Year | 2021 (Reissue) |
| MSRP | $12.99 |
| Accessories | E-5 Blaster Rifle, Removable Backpack & Antenna |