The Vintage Collection TaunTaun

10/1/2024

The The Vintage Collection TaunTaun was released in August 2011, priced at $24.99, and was exclusively available at Target stores in the United States. This exciting addition to The Vintage Collection was originally revealed at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2011, with the release following just a few weeks later. Here's what makes this TVC TaunTaun a fantastic piece for collectors of 3 3/4" figures and fans of The Empire Strikes Back.

Packaging and First Impressions

The The Vintage Collection TaunTaun comes in a beautifully designed, Kenner-style packaging, inspired by The Empire Strikes Back. It’s a nostalgic touch that instantly appeals to collectors who grew up with the movies in the 1980s. However, once you open the box, there isn’t much inside besides the TaunTaun itself and a simple cardboard holder for the creature. No instructions, loose parts, or baggies are included, which simplifies the unboxing process but may leave some collectors expecting more accessories.

Luke Skywalker’s TaunTaun

It’s easy to recognize this TaunTaun as Luke Skywalker’s TaunTaun, thanks to the broken horn, a result of its encounter with the Wampa at the beginning of The Empire Strikes Back. The paint application on the TaunTaun is very well done, with subtle weathering on the plastic fur to give it that worn look from surviving the harsh conditions of Hoth. However, one small flaw is that the joints are slightly mismatched with the plastic fur, a detail that’s only noticeable under close scrutiny or in close-up pics.

Luke Skywalker's TaunTaun with broken horn

Articulation and Display Options

The TVC TaunTaun features a range of articulation, making it a solid option for dynamic displays:

• Articulated neck, shoulders, hips and ankles
• Stiff joints that help maintain balance

The tail, however, is not articulated, and the mouth also lacks articulation, which limits some display options. The blanket on the back of the saddle is part of the sculpt and cannot be removed. Despite these limitations, the TaunTaun stands well once balanced and looks great in any Hoth-inspired display.

Slightly color-mismatched joints in the shoulders and ankles

Saddle and Reins - A Unique Attachment

The Vintage Collection TaunTaun includes a removable saddle and reins. Unlike some figures or creatures where accessories simply plug into a hole on the body, the saddle here function more like a real saddle, where the straps go around the body and at the bottom need to be tightened through two buckles. This design choice adds an authentic, non-obtrusive element to the overall look of the TaunTaun. The reins can be unplugged from their small holes next to the mouth.

Challenges with Luke Skywalker Hoth

One of the more frustrating aspects of this set is seating the Luke Skywalker Hoth figure on the TaunTaun. The figure’s articulation doesn’t quite allow the legs to spread wide enough to fit easily into the saddle. Even though the saddle has designated spots for the boots, they tend to slide out. However, with some patience, you can get Luke to hold the reins and make the display look pretty good.

Availability and Aftermarket

Initially, this TVC TaunTaun was well-received by collectors. However, by the spring of 2012, it began showing up on deep clearance at Target, with prices dropping as low as $7.98. Despite its strong initial sales, it was never followed up by a release of Han Solo’s TaunTaun in The Vintage Collection, which is still something collectors are waiting for.

Final Thoughts

As of October 2024, more than 13 years after its release, The Vintage Collection TaunTaun remains the best option for 3 3/4" Star Wars collectors who are looking for a Luke Skywalker specific version of the TaunTaun. The TaunTaun's sculpt is well-executed and holds up well more than a decade later. However, a new take on the creature would be nice to see in the 3 3/4" line where the joints are the same color as the fur and where the mouth and maybe tail are articulated. If you're looking for a high-quality TaunTaun for your Luke Skywalker figure or your Hoth diorama, this TaunTaun remains the top choice on the market as of 2024.