Cobra 5-Pack #3 G.I. Joe Modern Era Review [Archive] - HissTank.com

Shogi

02-01-2009, 08:55 AM

Storm Shadow looks like he's a simple repaint but there are a few new items here, namely, his arms. They're completely new and resemble his "sleeve-less" look from the cartoon. The wrists have been changed too. Now his hand goes into the wrap and the whole arm wrap is part of the lower arm instead of there being a slit in the middle of the wrap. Storm Shadow's belt and feet/shins have been changed to a light grey. Probably more to differentiate him from other repaints than anything else. Everything else on the figure is the same. Storm Shadow has all the same accessories as before but he comes with a few new ones. While it was missed with the first release and every one after, we finally have a pair of Nunchaku like the original had. Also new to Storm Shadow's arsenal is a grappling hook. The grappling hook has four prongs that rotate around the shaft. Each prong has the Arashikage hexagram on the end of them. Storm Shadow comes with a Long Sword, Short Sword, Dagger, Nunchaku, Bow, Grappling Hook, Backpack and Cobra Stand.

Being a fan of the cartoon, I've always liked the sleeveless look to Stormy. Add in the inclusion of the Nunchaku and the new grappling hook and I have a new default Storm Shadow. I do wish the belt had stayed black but the legs don't bother me.

Figure Rating: 8 out of 10

Shogi

02-01-2009, 09:00 AM

The Baroness is an all new sculpt. In fact, I think the only things reused on this figure are the rifle and her hair, however, even the hair was slightly retooled to look "softer". Everything else is new. Seems Hasbro was listening to the fans on this one. First off, Hasbro added the ability for the upper torso to move forward and backward allowing Baroness to actually stand upright easily. The torso joint is expertly hidden where the chest armor ends so the joint looks like a natural part of the sculpt. Hasbro made sure to allow Baroness to sit correctly this time around as well, quelling yet another complaint of the first Baroness. One new change that was unnecessary, but welcomed was making the feet have a separated heel this time. There is still a hole for the stand, but it's no longer in the area between the heel and the foot. Another new update is a sculpted on Cobra sigil on the chest. Baroness' face seems off at first but it's growing on me. She has a stern look that is very characteristic of the Baroness. Baroness comes with a Rifle and a Cobra Stand.

Even if the face may seem slightly off, this is the ultimate Baroness figure we have received yet.

Figure Rating: 9 out of 10

Shogi

02-01-2009, 09:04 AM

Cobra Commander, as usual, is the low point of this set. This is the same CC we got in the Pyramid of Darkness DVD set only in slightly darker colors. This time around he comes with the cape that came with the Comic Pack CC and a whole new Cobra staff. The staff is the only good thing with this CC everything else about this figure is pretty lame. At least you don't have to pop the head off to get the cape off of him. Cobra Commander comes with Cape, Pistol, Staff and a Cobra Stand.

Figure Rating: 3 out of 10

Shogi

02-01-2009, 09:07 AM

Zartan is the same as the Wave 11 Zartan but with some new paint apps. His feet are grey now instead of black, but the shins are black which makes them look more like leg bracers instead of the tops of boots. The biggest change however, is Zartan's chest armor. It's made out of clear plastic and painted with a pinkish red to simulate how his chest would glow red whenever Zartan was mad in the cartoon series. Zartan comes with a Pistol, Knife, Duke Mask, Storm Shadow Mask, Backpack, removable Vest and a Cobra Stand.

It's a cool concept with a nod to the cartoon fans, but as a general figure, you're a little limited with what to do with this Zartan. Thankfully, the gimmick is only limited to his vest so if you change that out, you have a pretty cool Zartan.

Figure Rating: 7 out of 10

Shogi

02-01-2009, 09:10 AM

The Viper wasn't the main reason I wanted to get this set, but after holding him, I think he should have been close to the main reason. The Viper is mostly the same figure still warming the pegs all over my neck of the woods, but there are a few subtle changes to it. The two most noticeable changes would be the chromed face plate and the straight wrists. Fans who wanted their Viper's to look normal when weaponless have their wish now. One of the subtle changes that makes me happy is the painted skull patch on the Viper's left shoulder that was seen on the cartoon Vipers. What you may not have seen from pictures is something to make customizers rejoice. The head is actually a chromed Cobra Commander head with a Viper helmet glued on to it! Also, the goggles are now part of the helmet sculpt rather than a separate piece. The Rifle has now been painted in metallic silver rather than the off white it originally was. Viper comes with Rifle, Backpack, removable Vest and a Cobra Stand

This is definitely the best looking Viper around. I'd think so even if it still had the original wrists. It was all the other little touches Hasbro added to it that made it pure win.

Figure Rating: 9 out of 10

Syn3sthesia

02-01-2009, 10:15 AM

Thanks for the review! Looking fwd to adding this 5 pack to my collection.

Kalibus

02-01-2009, 10:24 AM

Im picking this up for the new SS and Baroness. They look great.
Thanks for providing a comparison pic for the Baroness. When you compare the new Baroness with the original, the old one looks horrible.

The BLAY

02-01-2009, 10:32 AM

When you compare the new Baroness with the original, the old one looks horrible.

Exactly what Kal said!

I really dig the viper! I want a few of these for sure.
I kind of wish they would have made a separate mold for the Viper head instead of using the chrome CC head, but i def. does work and I think its a great touch on a great figure, now improved

Shogi

02-01-2009, 10:34 AM

Dave in the Basement

02-01-2009, 10:35 AM

Thank you for the excellent review!

Are these packs going to be available at mass retailers, or is this just an online exclusive?

Steel Brigade

02-01-2009, 10:35 AM

Great review, should have this set x 2 come in this week, plus the Joe one x 2, for my brother & I.

Sorrel_Park

02-01-2009, 11:00 AM

Awesome review! Can't wait for Entertainment Earth to get their shipments in...

Any luck on reviewing the G.I. Joe pack yet?

hamilcar

02-01-2009, 11:14 AM

i gave the set a 4. the saving grace to me, and the only reason to get the set, is the Baroness, which is a marked improvement on the original 5-pack version and the blue version. the wave 11 and HoH Zartan makes this one completely unnecessary, and the translucent chest piece looks silly. the Storm Shadow looks ok, but i don't think it is too much of an improvement over the earlier version. plus, it will be released as an HoH figures, so it could be picked up on its own. i don't like the chrome on the Viper. i think it looks goofy. the red is too bright on the grenades and arm pads. the only improvement i see over the original is the fixed wrists, which, to me, wasn't that big of a deal.

botticus

02-01-2009, 11:51 AM

I was just about to ask if the sleeveless SS in HoH was the only version we had like that, but of course, it's here as well! I wasn't originally thrilled with these, but these seem like a good assortment of cartoon or ARAH accurate figs to make my definitive versions.

Shogi

02-01-2009, 12:47 PM

Thank you for the excellent review!

Are these packs going to be available at mass retailers, or is this just an online exclusive?

I think they're supposed to be mass retail but I'm not sure on that. I know you can get them online right now but that's it.

Awesome review! Can't wait for Entertainment Earth to get their shipments in...

Any luck on reviewing the G.I. Joe pack yet?

GI Joe set will be up tomorrow

skatezaz

02-01-2009, 12:53 PM

i want this set viper, ss with new parts, baroness. good stuff

DistantFred

02-01-2009, 01:07 PM

One new change that was unnecessary, but welcomed was making the feet have a separated heel this time.

Why is this a welcome change, exactly? The wedges of the previous release were basically a sturdier version of the same shoe.

I'd understand it being a welcome change if her footwear got more practical, but heels serve only to break as she runs about being evil. And even if you suggest that it's to increase her sexy image... well, wedges accomplish the same effect as heels without having a part prone to snapping off.

Shogi

02-01-2009, 02:53 PM

Why is this a welcome change, exactly? The wedges of the previous release were basically a sturdier version of the same shoe.

I'd understand it being a welcome change if her footwear got more practical, but heels serve only to break as she runs about being evil. And even if you suggest that it's to increase her sexy image... well, wedges accomplish the same effect as heels without having a part prone to snapping off.

It's a welcome change since the first 5-pack version was trying to be a heel but had the extra plastic in there to make the hole. It's all about the asthetics. Also, since this change doesn't take away anything, there is still a foot hole, I'd call it welcome.

As for the heel breaking off, the plastic they use now days is too soft for that.

Monkeywrench

02-01-2009, 02:55 PM

Thanks for the review. Baroness and the Viper are pure win.

ceraurus

02-01-2009, 03:52 PM

Thanks for the reviews. My set should be coming soon. I think the Baroness face would look a lot better with a cleaner repaint of the glasses and lips.

TripleCP

02-01-2009, 04:28 PM

Shogi

02-01-2009, 04:44 PM

I know many people are REALLY sick of CC, but 3 out of 10 is a little low given that it looks like they apparently (correct me if I'm wrong) have his head resting a little lower on his neck now so there's less of a giraffe effect.

Ya know, I hadn't noticed that. It does look lower on the neck. My rating still stands (Even though, you'll notice that I gave a beter rating to the DVD version) My main problem with this figure is that it's a repaint with the very minimalist mod done to it. Customizers can do what was done to this CC in their sleep. I would have been happier had they not included this figure and just knocked $6 off the price of the set

bothen

02-01-2009, 06:49 PM

The baroness's face really looks like the origanal if you put them side by side.I'm sure that was their intention.I think the seprate heels add to thhe figure.they were like that in the cartoon.

spacemonkeymafia

02-01-2009, 06:50 PM

The baroness's face really looks like the origanal if you put them side by side.I'm sure that was their intention.I think the seprate heels add to thhe figure.they were like that in the cartoon.

...and in real life to...

delta

02-01-2009, 07:15 PM

Baroness' face seems off at first but it's growing on me. She has a stern look that is very characteristic of the Baroness. Baroness comes with a Rifle and a Cobra Stand.
What dose the OG 5 pack Baroness head look like on the new one? Will it fit?

BHiga6181

02-01-2009, 07:30 PM

What dose the OG 5 pack Baroness head look like on the new one? Will it fit?

Like crap....becuase the first Baroness head was crap.

I am going to be putting the Green Glasses baroness head on this one.

All you need to do is paint the green glasses black and that will be the ultimate baroness.

Storm Shadow and the Viper are also great pieces, however the ULTIMATE and perfect SS will be the Hall of Heroes one.

delta

02-01-2009, 07:34 PM

All you need to do is paint the green glasses black and that will be the ultimate baroness.
I don't like that head. They look like old people glasses :)
http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm224/dansartain/glasses.jpg

NeoDragonKnight

02-01-2009, 07:58 PM

nice, i should be getting my set soon as well. Good to see how it is upclose, thanks for the pics

Hellion42

02-01-2009, 08:24 PM

My new Viper joins my ragtag "army." My new Zartan is already sold. My new SS is becoming Billy. My new CC is getting tagged and bagged and put in my BST to rot, possibly forever. My new Baroness is bitch-slapping the old one, calling her "Minmei," and beating her ass on the roof.

Pimp Daddy Darklon

02-01-2009, 08:44 PM

Cool! So technically, the Viper's helmet can be removed & without any indentation on his head?

The Cobra Commander's head seems lower too & that's good. The DVD one looks like he has a long neck.

bothen

02-01-2009, 09:28 PM

Are you sure it's the same head as the dvd pack CC.CC has a ridge down the middle.Also could you confirm the vipers helmet can come off.

Foolproof

02-01-2009, 10:36 PM

Great review! Thanks, Shogi! I'm picking this one up for sure.

Troynos

02-01-2009, 11:14 PM

Baroness is the only thing I want out of this set. I don't like the sleeveless Storm Shadow.

And I really cannot stand the chrome faceplate on the Viper.

sonofdestro

02-01-2009, 11:38 PM

These are what this line should be about, great looking updated versions of classic characters. You can can call me a selfish 30 something baby if you want, but I say screw the kids and there spring loaded weapon fetishes. I want MY! Joes and this set is exactly how I want them.

sweeper

02-01-2009, 11:58 PM

What's with the elongated snout? Holy ****! LOL! A helmet designed for Greedo to wear! This is a horrible set, I was gonna buy a bunch for the chrome domed Vipers, but not after seeing those photos. I'll buy a loose Baroness but that's the only one from this set I want. No thanks to the pink chested Zartan & the gray socks Storm Shadow.

GREEDO VIPER!!:

http://www.hisstank.com/forum/attachments/g-i-joe-feedback-reviews/22733d1233497436-cobra-5-pack-3-g-i-joe-modern-era-review-action.png

Shogi

02-02-2009, 12:05 AM

Are you sure it's the same head as the dvd pack CC.CC has a ridge down the middle.Also could you confirm the vipers helmet can come off.

Yes it is the same head. Only the inside hole for the neck ball has been modded to allow it to sit lower on the neck.

Like I said in my review, the Viper helmet is glued onto the chrome CC head. The only way for me to show that the helmet comes off is to rip it off, I don't feel like destroying my figure just yet.

MeLikeJinx

02-02-2009, 12:21 AM

Wow. That Baroness looks great; at first I thought the glasses looked funny, but looking at the close up shots I think her new head sculpt crosses the threshold of acceptable. LOL. Too bad she's the only one I want in this set though.

butter_the_pure

02-02-2009, 01:16 AM

Nice review, thank you!

tna2k

02-02-2009, 03:04 AM

already preordered from target can't wait thanx alot for such a in depth review TNA

quintonarledge

02-02-2009, 09:58 AM

the only disappointing figure out of this set is the redundant PoD CC.

bothen

02-02-2009, 11:20 AM

I don't think it's the same head.I'm 99% sure it's not.

Shogi

02-02-2009, 01:27 PM

I don't think it's the same head.I'm 99% sure it's not.

I don't know what makes you think that, they look pretty identical to me

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Front.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Right.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Left.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Back.jpg

RoadShlock

02-02-2009, 01:47 PM

Shogi

02-02-2009, 02:13 PM

is it me, or is CC's hood slightly darker than his vestments?

yeah, it's a slight shade darker

Fierce Krypton

02-02-2009, 03:04 PM

Its to bad they screwed up the paint scheme on the Viper otherwise it would be a 10 for me. If its not broke dont try to fix it HAsbro. Should have just fixed the broken wrists and the broken goggles and been done with it.(although I do admit the new head is an added bonus) But still Id rather have the old head with sculpted in goggles and the old paint scheme than these bright red highlights in all the wrong places.

nighthawk

02-02-2009, 03:18 PM

How does CC's color compare to the Best Of DVD's CC? I want to put the Best Of's head onto this one so then I can have a CC that doesn't have glue residue on his back but have the chrome face.

bothen

02-02-2009, 03:51 PM

Oh sorry i thought you were talking about the chrome head on the viper.That one is not the same as the cc chrome.My apoligies

Tracker

02-02-2009, 09:51 PM

I want this set all except C.C and Zartan

~Synder Corps.~

02-02-2009, 10:03 PM

Getting delivered tomorrow, and I'm sorry to say...I'm not as thrilled about either.

The Joe set has TONS of high points, with the only exceptions being stated on that thread (Hawk, Flintand SW's head)

This one...

CC...I HATE THAT HEAD!!!! WHY couldn't they make it another chromed battlemask? He looks like the F'n Elephant man!

Zartan...fail...Custom Fodder

SS...Cool, and love the reworked lower arms...but honestly, I'm giving him over to Daremo (Surprise bro)

Viper...Awsome, and yes, I will buy another set simply to make some kind of two man uber-viper team using Maurader weapons and a few paint apps. Unless HoH is released singley and MAYBE I'll replace my entire squad with chromios (That's why I have no problem giving SS to Dare...I can wait til I see it on the shelves to get a second)

Queen B...F'n SEXY. and the main selling point of the set! Can't wait to get the second one and make a Crimson B, and switch out heads with W8 (with shades)

...Great review on BOTH though

Colt Blue

02-02-2009, 10:29 PM

This set looks very good, will buy one if and when I see it. The Viper, SS and Baroness are high points here all great reasons to pick this set up.

Steel Brigade

02-02-2009, 10:34 PM

Shogi!!
Got these in today but I think you are a wee bit mistaken my friend. The Hair on the Baroness is all new and not the same as the Mass Device version, (look at the part in her hair) & the Viper head is also all new & not the same as the DVD 5 Chrome Cobra Commander (totally different shape & no center ridge).

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/JOEPACK2COBRAPACK3.jpg

Shogi

02-02-2009, 10:37 PM

Shogi!! Got these in today but I think you are a wee bit mistaken my friend. The Hair on the Baroness is all new and not the same as the Mass Device version, & the Viper head is also all new & not the same as the DVD 5 Chrome Cobra Commander.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/JOEPACK2COBRAPACK3.jpg

Ok, why do you think they are different? I'll admit, I haven't held the chrome heads next to each other and scrutinized them, but I did with the baroness hair. I didn't see a difference, what did I miss?

dawingster

02-02-2009, 11:07 PM

I don't know what makes you think that, they look pretty identical to me

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Left.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Back.jpg

Damn, if those shots don't look like Inky (Blue Ghost) from Pac-Man!
:D

coola784

02-02-2009, 11:11 PM

i was going to pass on this 5 pack but im thinking now after seeing it, i might have to pick it up. looks very cool. im really digging the viper and SS. great review!

Steel Brigade

02-02-2009, 11:28 PM

Ok, why do you think they are different? I'll admit, I haven't held the chrome heads next to each other and scrutinized them, but I did with the baroness hair. I didn't see a difference, what did I miss?

Here's a comparison my friend.
The front of the CC's chrome mask is a completely different shape with a ridge down the middle. The Viper's is flat & elongated.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/CHROME3.jpg

The Baroness, look at the part in her hair, the new Baroness has it in a different spot, the features are softer, & the cut is softer, very similar, but it's different.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/BARONESSheadshot.jpg

UMAN

02-02-2009, 11:41 PM

Is it just me or does CC's hood sit a little lower on his shoulders than the POD version?

poddie

02-02-2009, 11:48 PM

This set fares much better than the Joe one.

I like the new sleeveless Storm Shadow, though I'm not crazy about the gray paint apps.

Baroness is 10x better. Very nice.

Cobra Commander is a complete waste of plastic. How many of these damn things will I have? Enough to fill a landfill.

I don't think Zartan's new colors work quite right. The pink is odd, and the review is spot on about the boots looking more like leg braces to me. Still, I love this mold so much it's hard for me to rate it down...

Viper is pure win. Fixed my issues with the normal release. The only thing that might be worth complaining about is that the face mask now doesn't match the other troops we already have.

DrKain

02-03-2009, 01:24 AM

Well Zartan's body is going to make a nice Zandar custom, especially if I can figure out what colors of paint that guy used on his.

Shogi

02-03-2009, 03:17 AM

Here's a comparison my friend.
The front of the CC's chrome mask is a completely different shape with a ridge down the middle. The Viper's is flat & elongated.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/CHROME3.jpg

The Baroness, look at the part in her hair, the new Baroness has it in a different spot, the features are softer, & the cut is softer, very similar, but it's different.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/BARONESSheadshot.jpg

Hmm, perhaps they just modded the hair a bit then. Because the lower half of the hair is the same mold. I have noticed that all the details in a lot of these remolded parts are softer, you can see it in the CC hood too.

Bernit69

02-03-2009, 03:22 AM

These are cool...I think the Joe set has overall better improvements. Thanks for the review and comparison pics. That helps.

darkshadow

02-03-2009, 03:35 AM

this is the definitive Storm Shadow to me.

sstralkowski

02-03-2009, 07:42 AM

Until reading this set of reviews, I was going to completely skip this set. The reasons for your ratings are very compelling.

ChapmanFilms

02-03-2009, 07:46 AM

Nice

Jedi_Master_Ben

02-03-2009, 10:21 AM

I am really liking these sets! I can't wait for them to hit my area.

But I am looking at his as a means to swap parts to make the difinative version of these characters (if needed).

Barroness: Absolutly beautiful sculpt. By far the best version to date. I would not change a thing to her.

Storm Shadow: I am like the new lower arms they made for this figure. To bad that they did not do the colors black instead of the grey. Plus, I am not so much of a fan of the cartoon as I am of the comics, so I plan on swaping out the lower arms of the first version with these new ones and giving the nunchucks to finish the difiative Storm Shadow. The rest is custom fodder.

Zartan: Not liking this one. strickly custom fodder

Cobra Commander: This one accully like because of the darker color uniform. He is replacing the DVD pack version. Plus the staff will be a great accessory for Serpentor.

Cobra Viper: After having the CC with the crome facemask, it only makes sence that all future Cobra soldiers that had that type of face mask/helmet should also be cromed. It looks good on him. Plus I like the new shoulder patch, it adds additional appeal to the figure. The arm fix was never much of a deal with me and it will give a little diversity in the ranks.

All in all, a good set. I am getting this mostly for the new Barroness, and the other figures are gust a bonus.

Roadblock Recall

02-03-2009, 12:36 PM

DarthBrett

02-03-2009, 01:17 PM

This set is the lesser of the two new 5-packs.

Cobra Commander is nothing new really and other than his staff is pretty boring; 4/10.

Storm Shadow is a pretty good figure although the upcoming HOH figure improves upon this version a little bit (white feet and black belt); 7/10.

The Viper is definitely better looking and has the "fixed" hands now. I don't like the new chrome helmet, though. This version isn't really a whole lot better than the wave 7 figure (I thought that figure was fine the way it was); 7/10.

Baroness is by far the highlight of this set. She's now really poseable and looks a lot more kick-ass. The face sculpt is kind of off and I don't like the straight hair (the windswept hair looks better to me); 9/10

Zartan is plain and looks kind of lame with his gray boots and hot pink chest armor. His belt is also not painted and his eyes are bright green; 3/10

The Cobra 5-pack has got 1 great figure, 2 figures that are good but have better versions and 2 very mediocre and boring repaints. I give it a 6.

kingphilbert

02-03-2009, 04:13 PM

is it me, or is CC's hood slightly darker than his vestments?

That's how it always was in the cartoon though, a bit darker. Although redundant to have another CC, I took my very first 5 pack CC and the dark blue hood from the single and pulled this off already. That will stand as my default CC. I had done the same as a kid with the two releases as well.

Not a bad set really, but Zartan will become fodder. The Viper doesn't bother me. Baroness may get a head swap, but looks great. Too bad SS has grey on him and I like the first 5 packed one a lot. Maybe and arm swap? I don't know. I did give this a lower rating though as it could have been a better set. Instead of Zartan why not Dr. Mindbender, or if sticking with existing figures why not a...well I don't who else, but it could have been someone else.

spazzy

02-03-2009, 08:31 PM

I ordered an extra set mainly for the baroness to have one opened, but since I don't have a normal SS I am glad this one is pretty decent, the Viper looks cool as well, the other 2 I will probably try to unload.

I love the Baroness, but that paint job on her face needs to be fixed, a couple little touch ups and I think this figure will be one of my favorites out of the whole line.

And I give the set a 9/10, mainly because I would have never even thought about buying a second set without the baroness, she put it up there, if it was just a repaint of an older B, I would give this set a 4/10

GI Kiwi

02-03-2009, 08:32 PM

I'm not impressed with the packaging, got mine today and the box flap is very flimsy and the box itself is a cheap looking thin cardboard.

Shogi

02-03-2009, 10:11 PM

Shogi, can you show a comparison pic of Zartan heads like you did with CC? The heads are looking different on Zartan. Same hair, but I think it's a different head. Perhaps it's the head from the original Zartan?

I'll get some pics up a little later, but looking at the heads, I'd say all 3 are the same head. They all have the same clef chin and grimace on their mug

From Left to Right:
Wave 11 without hood
Wave 11 with hood
5-pack
original

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Zar1.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Zar2.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee57/joetoonarchive/Zar3.jpg

THE ENEMY

02-04-2009, 03:46 AM

Shogi

02-04-2009, 09:01 AM

Does anyone know what this Baroness design is based off of? It's not the classic uniform. Similar, but different. Compare her to the other 25th baroness or the box art and you'll see what I mean.

She looks more like a Devil's Due redesign.

She appears to be inspired by the original toy with a bit of a modern, real world feel. Her collar definately looks like the 80's one

Silverclown

02-04-2009, 03:34 PM

to bad its gonna take a dogs year to get to my neck of the woods. but this set looks great.

THE ENEMY

02-04-2009, 03:40 PM

She appears to be inspired by the original toy with a bit of a modern, real world feel. Her collar definately looks like the 80's one

I think it's odd that in two sets where every other figure is accurate to the original, they decided to do a redesign on the Baroness. It's certainly similar, but I still don't feel like I have my essential Baroness.

Steel Brigade

02-04-2009, 06:54 PM

OWNED!!

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c44/teelamotu/GI%20Joe/BARONESS.jpg

nighthawk

02-04-2009, 07:14 PM

Is Storm Shadow bright white like the comic pack or the off white like the single carded figure?

If he's bright white, this will be my new fav.

I'd really like to know the answer to this as well. If the white on the comic pack SS matches the 5 pack one, then i would just skip the HOH one and make my own SS.

bothen

02-04-2009, 07:54 PM

I think this Baroness is pretty much perfect.It's a vast improvement over the orignal 100%.

Shogi

02-04-2009, 08:10 PM

Is Storm Shadow bright white like the comic pack or the off white like the single carded figure?

If he's bright white, this will be my new fav.

Sorry guys, he's a slight shade darker than the 1st Comic Pack version and a slight shade lighter than the single version

Mandingo Rex

02-05-2009, 12:25 AM

Um... Was anyone else's Cobra set missing the file cards?

Shogi

02-05-2009, 01:46 AM

Um... Was anyone else's Cobra set missing the file cards?

Mine had them between the insert and the back of the box sealed in their own bag.

Mandingo Rex

02-05-2009, 01:52 AM

Mine had them between the insert and the back of the box sealed in their own bag.

Yeah, mine was missing it completely. The Joe pack had the cards, in their own polybag. And there's no chance it "fell between the cushions" or anything, as I opened both sets on the coffee table with a box cutter to cut the tape.

Again, great Hasbro QC. I actually wanted the pre-cut cards for the Viper and Zartan, dammit.

I have the stands though, which I have about a bazillion of.
Hooray.

Mandingo Rex

02-05-2009, 02:32 AM

So anyways, my biggest gripe, of course, is my set was missing the freaking file cards.

I think this Baroness is pretty much perfect.It's a vast improvement over the orignal 100%.

Yep, this Baroness kicks ass. Totally blows the first one out of the water—she actually looks silly now. I do miss the backpack, and although there's a back hole, you can't fit a pack on her. I agree with whoever else stated it before... I kinda liked the windswept look of the old hair, but prefer the new head a lot more. I will need to do a few touchups on the glasses, but that's not a biggie. The rest of the figure is simply stunning. 10/10

The Viper blew me away too. WHY did they make the red so bright? I loved the old Viper's muted burgundy over this new fire engine red. However, the goggles on the first ones were always useless... I have superglued each and every one onto their helmets, and this saved me the trouble. Plus the lenses being painted looks really nice, and I for one like the chrome helmet. The new arms are better, but I didn't have a huge problem with the first arms. Just like the first 5-pack trooper, it's a shame these guys are stuck in 5-packs. 9/10

Storm Shadow: Weak. Okay, I liked the new lower arms, they look better, but weren't a huge design fiasco like the first Duke arms. I don't prefer either the short sleeved or sleeveless look, but I seriously thought the first Storm Shadow was perfect. This one's arms and new accessories fix the first one, but I liked the colors on the first one best, and had no problem with the flipflop feet. Did we REALLY need another almost-the-same Storm Shadow? Retire the mold, please. 8/10, but the first one was 9/10

Zartan: Looks terrible. Wave 11 one looks fantastic, but this one just sucks. The ONLY things I like are the weathering on the shoulder pads, and the left arm doesn't pop off easily like my Wave 11 one, so those may get swapped out. And they STILL didn't paint his hip cups! And the belt not being painted is just lazy, when they went to the trouble to weather the pads. That vest is ridiculous. This will become Zandar, and I don't feel bad at all for chopping him up. The colors just don't work at all. 4/10

CC: I don't hate him, seriously. The PoD one sucked. This one is like a fixed version, with better colors. But WHY is this CC #3967? Don't we have enough? I would have liked a v1 Destro with updated head and fixed double-knees over ANOTHER nearly-identical CC. I still prefer the first hooded CC over this one, but it's not terrible. I'll use this body with the Best-Of helmet so I don't have to remove that harness every time. Otherwise, fairly useless, but I think the worst of the set is Zartan. 6/10

GI Kiwi

02-05-2009, 11:19 PM

I like Storm Shadow the most myself, Zartan and Cobra Commander are hopeless. I like the Viper but the new hands don't seem to make much of a difference getting him to use a two handed grip on his rifle, it's still very difficult. I never had the first Baroness so it's good to have a decent one.

spazzy

02-06-2009, 08:31 PM

Just got the set, opened one kept one closed.

I must say the packaging seems real cheap.

The Baroness is cool, I will do a couple paint touch ups.

Viper is pretty cool with the crome, may have to sell the other one I have,

Stormshadow, it's doable, I didn't open the first one that came out and missed on it, but this will do.

Zartan and CC are weird, I will probably sell those.

Fast_Draw

02-06-2009, 10:20 PM

Both sets arrived this afternoon. Overall, I'm happy with them both, but it's a mixed bag regardless. The viper and Baroness are my favorites from this set followed by Storm Shadow. I give the set an 8 out of 10 overall.

Hellion42

02-07-2009, 08:30 AM

Got mine in this week too... Baroness needs some touchups as I feared, I like the Viper, and SS looks great, and is just different enough from the original that I won't have to do much to turn him into Billy. :D Zartan I already sold... and CC... does anyone need one? lol

sgt.bludhound

02-07-2009, 12:14 PM

I can't wait to get my set in!!!!!!!!!! another month, and both 5 packs are mine!!

Dr. Whom

02-07-2009, 03:20 PM

I just got a Zartan from this set from another Tanker and I think he is awesome! PM me if you want to get rid of yours or other figures from these new 5 -packs (Buy/Trade)

G.I. ChiLL

02-08-2009, 02:04 AM

I'm going crazy for this cartoon acurate set. That's usually the case for mose of my purchases.

NeoDragonKnight

02-09-2009, 10:03 PM

Just got my set today, this for me (since I am an opener) is my hall of heroes set. The Viper and Baroness are excellent figures, and upgraded very well. SS and Zartan are solid figures, and as usual CC is kinda crappy. But those 4 make the set worth it and Im glad I got it.

Mandingo Rex

02-13-2009, 02:33 AM

Now that I've had some time to think these over, here's my revised thoughts:

I'm taking this Zartan's torso, since I like the weathering on the shoulder pads but don't feel like popping the torso to do an arm swap, but instead plan on painting the hip sockets to match his pants and painting the belt (WHY? WHY is his belt pants-colored? The HoH version went to the trouble of painting the weathering on his armor, yet his belt's not painted!!!). The arms on this new Zartan fit better than the W11 one. My W11 Zartan's left arm pops off at the glove joint, which is annoying. That "Jellies" vest is still terrible. I think I'll use my W11 Zartan for a Zandar base instead of this one.

The Baroness still kicks ass, but her head bothers me... The hair on the Baroness and LJ prevent their heads from look up; they catch on the collars. Other than the thick coke-bottle glasses on the V1 Baroness, I think her head looks fine on this one's body... I'll go so far as say that I prefer the hair from the first one, since it allows the backpack to be worn. They have GOT to release this Baroness on a single card at some point, and it'd be nice if they included an alternate head with the v1 hair on the v3 head.

CC is still just another worthless CC—not bad, but not wanted either. The first wind-swept hood is still the best sculpt so far. SS isn't too amazing as I was happy with the V1, but this one has a solid sculpt update on the arms and feet, I just don't like the colors, but I don't like the sculpt over the V1 enough to buy the HoH version, which is better coloring, just not worth it for new feet. I can do the arm swap myself, and don't want to paint feet with the joints.

The Viper kicks ass. I really want that guy in the new TRU 5-pack, instead of the first version. I don't get why they fixed the helmet and don't use it more.

dawingster

02-15-2009, 01:49 AM

Mine had them between the insert and the back of the box sealed in their own bag.

I just picked up these sets in Canada. Our Joe and Cobra packs had 2 sets of file cards. One set has French on one side, and Spanish on the other. The other set of cards has English fronts with all black backs. Is this a Canada only exclusive variant? :D

Foolproof

02-21-2009, 01:45 AM

I just picked up these sets in Canada. Our Joe and Cobra packs had 2 sets of file cards. One set has French on one side, and Spanish on the other. The other set of cards has English fronts with all black backs. Is this a Canada only exclusive variant? :D

I believe it is. Hooray for Canada!

Anyway, I was out fruitlessly hunting today, and I saw these in hand for the first time at Wal-Mart. They had 1 Joe and 2 Cobra sets. I was really excited to find them, they looked really good in pictures for the most part. Overall, they feel pretty cheap. The box is paperboard, about the thickness of the vehicle boxes, maybe a little thinner, it's very light and relatively small. All the detail gripes were present of course, unpainted belts and all that, but in addition to that, the paint apps themselves were very sloppy, The Joe set was so-so, but the Cobra sets were pretty terrible. Sloppy eyes, one Stormy had a black smudge across his face, Zartan's thigh pad paint was only half there on one, and dear jeebus, the Baroness' glasses on both were...just bad. I really feel like Hasbro phoned it in on this one. I passed until I can find one with competent paint apps. Are they $19.99 everywhere, or was that just the sticker for the DVD packs they didn't have any of?