Mattel Masters of the Universe Classics Fisto Mattel, 2012
Day #459: August 7, 2012
Fisto Heroic Hand-to-Hand Fighter
Masters of the Universe Classics Action Figures
Item No.: No. W8901 Manufacturer:Mattel Includes:2 heads, 2 swords, belt Action Feature:n/a Retail:$22.00 Availability:February 2012 Other: Fisto in the 1980s, Battle Fist in 2002, thankfully not labeled "Heroic Master of Fisting"
Slowly but surely, Mattel has been checking off its big-ticket heroes in Masters of the Universe Classics. There were only a few dozen figures in the original line, so they do need to hold back heavy-hitters like Fisto to keep fans of the original toys on the line and extending the series' life by a couple of years. (Does anyone seriously believe that most hardcore He-Man collectors were asking for the Star Sisters? Perish the thought.) Each and every new old-school release is a cause for celebration, mostly because toy manufacturers make better figures as the line goes on. Fisto isn't merely a recreation of the original toy, but rather a nicely decked-out version of the original toy, complete with numerous bonus parts to make him more similar to the 2003 action figure. In short, good things come to those who wait.
As his namesake, his giant fist has been sculpted with lots of rivets and even some paint on the knuckles giving it a little more "pop." While a metallic prosthetic, one would think this would make his right arm muscles stronger than his left-- and one would be right. Newly-sculpted biceps can be seen, just a smidgen larger than that of the regular He-Man buck. It's a nice touch, a small one, but a nice one. I approve.
The figure uses Vikor's new feet (with the hidden ankle pegs) and sports and all-new pair of heads and new body armor. Unlike most armors, this one covers the entire torso and doesn't leave the body underneath visible. It's a nice touch, but it's not nearly as cool as the extra belt.
If you don't like the default "classic" look, Mattel included an alternate head with a headband, a belt which covers his torso, and the massive sword which was designed (but not released) in the 2002 line as a tribute to long-time fans. Of course, the sword is more than a little silly, but that's what makes it fun. Not only is it the biggest bladed weapon this side of Cloud Strife's Buster Sword, but it has a smallish fist at the end of it. I assume this was included only to provoke giggles from the pervy fans out there, and hey, it worked on me. It's truly one of the most amazing accessories in the line, it's just so preposterous and well-executed that it's hard not to love it in spite of itself.
Fisto sold out incredibly quickly and reportedly didn't have a large enough run to cover returns-- so it's in short supply and Mattel claims they will not be reissuing this one ever. Even with this in mind, the price has been steady over the last few months, hovering around $35-$40. I suspect it might get more expensive, but that would imply more fans will enter the hobby and start collecting MOTUC which, while possible, isn't incredibly likely at this point in the line's lifespan. I wouldn't expect to see it for $20 or less ever again though, and as it's really a wonderful figure I would recommend it highly to anyone interested in buying this series.
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