Masters of the Universe Classics - Deluxe GYGOR

[JeffSaylor]

Advance look at the "Evil Fighting Gorilla"...

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As we approach the end of 2010, there are several amazing Masters of the Universe Classic collectibles that fans can look forward to adding to their collection. Perhaps the coolest deluxe figure in the line so far - Gygor - will be going on sale this month exclusively on mattycollector.com. This big beast is inspired by the concept figure that was never produced for the original MOTU toy line.

PACKAGING: Gygor comes packaged within a large window-box that features all the standard MOTUC design elements seen on previous figure releases.

The back of the box features several different past figure releases and Gygor's character bio. The latter reveals new details about Eternian lore and the ape creature's background. One thing to note: When opening the package, it is only necessary to open one side to slide out the cardboard tray and remove the figure.

SCULPT/ACCESORIES: This figure is 100% new and not a re-tooling of the DC Universe Classics Gorilla Grodd figure as many fans have speculated. Gygor towers over Grodd, and while there are many similarities between the two, they are completely different. The Four Horsemen have done an amazing job with the design and sculpt work on Gygor.

Although this figure is simply a giant gorilla, the Horsemen have once again demonstrated their unmatched creativity and artistic ability to convert the most standard character into an awesome looking figure. The ferocious ape is dressed for war with his unique removable battle armor and helmet. The figure also has a large flowing cape with harness that can be easily removed. Gygor also includes a massive two-handed battle axe that easily fits in both of his hands.

PAINT: The vivid blend of yellow and green colors on Gygor's body is painted incredibly well and shows no signs of misapplication or bleeding. The black nails on the beast's feet and hands, along with the black armor, contrasts sharply with the lighter colors of the body and looks great.

The red cape on Gygor is painted in a uniform deep red color along with a mysterious simian footprint symbol, of which its significance has not yet been explained.

ARTICULATION: There is only one small gripe I have regarding Gygor and that is his articulation. Gygor features the same articulation as the DCUC Gorilla Grodd figure which is rather limited. I am surprised that this figure - which is almost 3 times larger than Grodd - does not include additional joints.

While the figure can be placed in several great looking poses, it is very difficult to display Gygor in any real gorilla poses due to the limited articulation in his legs (no knee joints). So far the only beast in this collection with an amazing range of motion and versatility has been Battle Cat. It seems to me that as the creatures get larger in scale, articulation is being sacrificed to keep the cost of the figure down. Regardless, I would have preferred to pay $40 for this piece if it had better articulated legs. Despite this minor issue, Gygor's existing joints work well. All the joints are nice and tight, which go a long way in helping to support this massive figure on display.

OVERALL: The inclusion of giant deluxe characters such as Tytus and Gygor show that the Masters of the Universe Classics toy line is doing well above Mattel's expectations. This is nothing but great news for MOTU fans seeking to add these rare, or never produced, figure gems to their collection. The Horsemen have done a fantastic job with the overall look of Gygor and I am very glad that he was turned into a villain. An evil simian warrior works much better than a heroic gorilla ally that He-Man can ride into battle (read: awkward).

Gygor goes on sale next Wednesday, September 15th at noon EST exclusively on mattycollector.com along with the 200X-inspired Chief Carnivus figure. Due to his large size, Gygor will be priced at $30.

Review and Photos by Jorge Pelaez

Review Sample Courtesy of Mattel

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