Skylanders Giants Unboxing Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack

Skylanders Giants Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack (GameStop Exclusive)

What Is It?  Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack (GameStop Exclusive)

Where Did You Get It?  GameStop

How Did You Get It? GameStop In-store Pre-Order

What Did It Cost?  $24.99 plus tax

Did It Cost Extra?  Nope.

What Is Included?  Chop Chop S2, Shroomboom, Golden Dragonfire Cannon, 3 Stat Cards, 3 Stickers, 3 Web Codes

What Was The Stock Like?  Plentiful.  They had a ton in store, all the pre-orders, and I have yet to see the item come down from the website either now or for pre-order.

Will This Be Rare?  Possibly.  It won't be near as common as the regular Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack.  That said, it certainly won't be along the lines of a rare variant etc...Just something different, a little special, and readily available to the average fan.

Conclusion

GameStop's Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack is a nice set-up.  I pre-ordered it long ago (still thinking along the lines of Wave 4 and 5).  At the time I ordered, no one really knew that there was going to be a regular Dragonfir Cannon Battle Pack.  Had I, and many others know, we might have held off.

Personally, I kept the pre-order just because it will be a little more distinct than the standard issue Battle Pack.

The only real difference between the two is that this battle pack features the Golden Dragonfire Cannon.  From what I know it unlocks an extra Battle Arena and a few have told me the magic effect is stronger, but doesn't last as long as the regular.  Once I've played I will know the full run-down via first hand findings.

This is the first Battle Pack and they kind of take the place of the old Adventure Packs...However, I want to stress this unlocks Battle Arenas for Battle Mode, not new chapters (that said, your old APs will work in Giants and unlock new levels).

This currently the only way to get Shroomboom, but he will later be out in LightCore form, and I'm sure he'll wind up in a single pack and likely a triple pack.

Overall, it is the same price as the standard battle pack and just offers a little bit more and a different colored cannon and lens.

Skylanders Giants Unboxing Legendary Bouncer

Unboxing Legendary Bouncer (Toys'R'Us Exclusive)

What Is It? Legendary Bouncer, or L-Bouncer for short.

Where Did You Get It? Toys'R'Us in store.

How Did You Get It? In person, in store.

What Did It Cost?  $14.99 plus tax.

Did It Cost Extra?  Nope, same price as any other Giant.

What Is Included? L-Bouncer, Stat Card, Sticker, Web Code

What Was The Stock Like?  Plentiful.  TRU had a ton of both L-Bouncer and the L-Triple Pack.

Will This Be Rare?  I wouldn't say rare, but not near as common place...primarily due to being a TRU Exclusive and the fact that will drive demand.  Right now I would just look at this as the Legendary stuff we saw from SSA.

Conclusion

Legendary Bouncer is a Toys'R'Us Exclusive and gives folks the option to bypass regular Bouncer for his Legendary form.  The price is the same, so it comes down to preference.  For everyone else, L-Bouncer will be slightly upgraded from the get-go and will be needed to fully complete your base collection.

Skylanders Giants Unboxing Granite Crusher

Skylanders Giants: Unboxing Granite Crusher (Target Exclusive)

What Is It? Granite Crusher (Target Exclusive)

Where Did You Get It?  Target-Exclusive to Target in the US

How Did You Get It?  In store.  Currently no online ordering options outside of ebay sellers.

What Did It Cost?  $14.99 plus tax

Does It Cost Extra?  No, despite being an exclusive and more rare, this costs the same as a regular Crusher from any other retailer.

What Is Included?  Granite Crusher, Stat Card, Sticker, and Web Code.

What Was the Stock Like?  I got the last one.  It looked like there were several pegs for Granite Crusher though.  That said, it seemed to be the hot seller on Day 1.  My reports across the net either indicate that stores didn't have him, had a ton of them (ie I would have walked in and seen 20 still out), or had a small number, but not a lot of buyers.

For what it is worth, I had an appointment and ran by Target on Day 2 and there were no Granite Crushers and everything was very picked over.

Will This Be Rare?  I wouldn't put this on line with a Gold or Silver from last time around, or even the new variants.  That said, the Target exclusive Whirlwind ran out around Christmas and then she was everywhere. I don't really see Granite Crusher going to all retailers just as I don't see the Golden Dragonfire Cannon or GITD Starer Pack migrating.  That said, will this stay in production, be cut of after a set date, or simply produced to a certain quantity is beyond me.

Out of all the Giants, I liked Crusher the most aesthetically (Eye Brawl is right up there).  The Granite Crusher look is very cool and it was on my short list of things to try and pick-up.

Conclusion

Right now, I don't think you'll have too much trouble trying to get a Granite Crusher.  If your store didn't have them, they likely will be getting them in soon.  If not, try another Target.  If you want it, I would advise picking him up BEFORE Black Friday just to be safe.  For those not wanting everything, adding Granite Crusher over Crusher is a nice fit, gives you something a little extra, and is all done for the same price.

Skylanders Giants Unboxing GITD 3DS Starter Pack

Nintendo 3DS Starter Pack with GITD Cynder and GITD Portal of Power (Walmart Exclusive)

Just as with the Wii Starter Pack, let's just get down to the basics:

What Is It?  Nintendo 3DS Giants Starter pack

Where Did You Get It?  Walmart.  It is exclusive to Walmart/Sam's Club in the US.

How Did You Get It?  Walmart.com's Site-to-Store

What Did It Cost?  $74.99 plus tax (site to store doesn't charge shipping)

Does It Cost Extra?  No, despite the GITD features it is the same price as a basic Starter Pack.

What Is Included?  Nintendo 3DS Game, GITD Portal of Power, GITD Cynder, Punch Pop Fizz, and Tree Rex.  Also included is a character poster, stat cards, stickers, and web codes for Spyro's Universe.

What Was The Stock Like?  This is definitely the toughest Starter Pack to track down, not just because of the GITD stuff.  Since this Starter Pack in base form features the 3DS Exclusive Punch Pop Fizz it is moving fast.  This is the only way to get Punch Pop Fizz.  Think of him as the Dark Spyro of Skylanders Giants.  A lot of people (scalpers included) will purchase this pack just to mark up Punch Pop Fizz and then make eve more selling the other items solo.  I had my first order cancelled and then upon visiting several stores the 3DS Starter Pack was by far the least common.  I have first hand accounts from others documenting this across the nation.

Will This Be Rare?  Again, I can't say.  Activision could have "x" rounds of production, a pre-determined number, a set cut-off date...it is all unknown to me.  That said, this is a heck of a deal as you not only get Punch Pop Fizz but also GITD Cynder and a GITD Portal of Power.  If you are going to get a 3DS Starter Pack this is the route to go imo.

Why Did You Get the GITD Version?  Unlike the Wii version, I had planned to get the Starter Pack for 3DS months ago.  I did hold off for special sales or promotions, but when the news of Walmart's Exclusive GITD version hit I pre-ordred as soon as possible.  This one also comes down to value and uniqueness.

This is the same price as a run-of-the-mill 3DS Starter Pack, but you get a GITD Portal and GITD Cynder.  With the Portal Owner's Pack running $59.99 coupled with the fact Punch Pop Fizz is exclusive to this Starter Pack, the $15 price difference is more than justified.  Tacking on a GITD Portal and GITD Cynder (which you can use for trade fodder...ie a friend finds Rock Zook, Polar Whirlwind, or has an old GITD you like better etc).

Conclusion

The 3DS Starter Pack in the Walmart Exclusive GITD form is a tough deal to beat.  In fact, I would rank it the #1 value overall.  I know I am a big Jet-Vac fan, but his LightCore is now out and his standard figure will be making the round eventually.  Punch Pop Fizz will be just like Dark Spyro.

When you can land a truly exclusive character and score a GITD Variant you are doing well.  The GITD Potrtal is a nice touch and allows SSA 3DS owners the option of having one at home and one in the car or for travel etc.

I haven't even mentioned that the 3DS game is once again entirely different from the console versions...take that into consideration and it is a no brainer.

If you do not have a 3DS I would suggest you pick one up.  Between Giants and Spyro's Adventure you've got 2 solid games I know you will like.  Toss in Nintendo exclusives and it is truly an incredible system (not to mention you can have all the old DS games on tap too).

I do want to mention you still need to be careful with Tree Rex when getting him out of the packaging.

The other item of note is that this portal does not have a USB Port or USB Cable.  That means you can not use it to load up Skylanders into the Spyro's Universe online game.  A minor deal, but worth noting.

Similarly, what shocked me is that Giants 3DS qualifies for Club Nintendo!!  The console version did not...I was totally unaware of this and have already registered for 60 coins!

Overall this is a great value as you get a totally new game different from the console versions, the GITD Portal, GITD Cynder, and of course the 3DS Exclusive Punch Pop Fizz!  Plus you've now got another way to take Skylanders on-the-go!

Skylanders Giants: Unboxing GITD Wii Starter Pack

Nintendo Wii Starter Pack with GITD Cynder and Portal of Power (Walmart Exclusive)

Alright, let's just get started with a quick run down for those looking for the basics.

What is it? Skylanders Giants Starter Pack for Nintendo Wii

Where Did You Get It? Walmart.  In the US, this is a Walmart/Sam's Club Exclusive

How Did You Get It?  Walmart.com's Site-to-Store

What Did It Cost? $74.99 plus tax (Site-to-Store doesn't charge shipping)

Does It Cost Extra?  No, that is the real perk...Special, but at regular price!

What is included?  Game Disc, Wired Glow-in-the-Dark Portal of Power, Glow in the Dark Series 2 Cynder,  Jet-Vac, Tree-Rex.

What Was the Stock Like?  In my hunts it has varied store-to-store.  If you want it, I think you can get it.

Will This Be Rare? Honestly don't know.  It is obviously special, whether it is a timed offering (thru Dec 31st), a set quantity (10,000) etc is beyond me.  All I know is that if you really want a GITD Starter Pack you should be able to get it.  That said, I would advise picking it up BEFORE Black Friday.

Why Did You Pick the GITD Version?  Long story.  I originally planned to get only the Portal Owner's Pack.  Why?  I wanted to record it via Wii, but was going to pick up the Wii U version on launch day.  As pricing came out, I (and virtually everyone else) realized that the Starter Pack is a better deal...especially for Wii Owners.  It only costs an extra $15 and you are basically getting 2 Skylanders and the wired Portal for that price.  That is money well spent...and efficient.  I don't know how many times in the playthrough last year I had the portal die...And it died a lot more than that, just wasn't always "during recording."  The wired portal will take care of that!  No more batteries!

Furthermore, I had read online that some Aussies (they got the game before us), complained of their "old" portals on the Wii not powering up the Giants and LightCore Skylanders.  That kind of kills the cool features if they are dim.

The real clincher, however, was when Walmart announced their GITD Starter Pack.  I'm not a huge Cynder fan, but she is GITD.  I'll take what I can get.  Plus the Portal is GITD...sweet.  The biggest swaying factors remained the wired portal and better value.  Just purely from a personal perspective, Jet-Vac is who I looked forward to the most (like Warnado last time).  His LightCore should be in stores now (Wave 2), but this and L-Jet-Vac are the only ways to get him in regular form.

Overall, the GITD Portal was cool, didn't cost more than a Starter Pack that was "basic," and there honestly wasn't a good promotion going on for buying the Starter Pack elsewhere (ie 50% off another game, or free Battle Pack/Triple Pack etc).

Conclusion

The Starter Pack is a better value than the Portal Owner's Pack.  For Wii Owner's of SSA the wired Portal is a NICE addition.  I am a big Jet-Vac fan (hoping he is good in the game) and wanted his figure.  Toss in the Walmart Exclusive GITD Cynder and GITD Portal of Power all for the same price as a regular Starter Pack and you've got me ready to purchase.  This one just makes too much sense.  Value, special, variant included, and all at the same price as its' basic counterparts.

On a side note, since I am likely the only person to care about this stuff....The packaging is vastly improved across the product line.  This one is by far the least friendly, but it is better than last year.  The only real complaint is the tape and plastic pouches with the fold-over adhesion strips.

My only caution remains being careful getting Tree Rex out.  The packaging is tight and cumbersome, but it needs to be for shipping.  Just take your time and try to stay away from the light up portions.

Skylanders Giants Launch Day Update: The Haul

Well, I have just wrapped up filming the first round of unboxings (ie I ran out-of-stuff), and have them editing and/or uploading.  Once again, please note that I am pretty tired when I do these...basically running off excitement.

Anyway, here is a run down on how things panned out for me today:

Nah, let's just get started with a picture:

Ok, now on to the details...

I left the house around 5 after watching the early football games.  I went straight to Target.  It looked like they had been picked over pretty well...there was actually a case of Skylanders on the shelf, sadly no variants just some singles.

Much to my surprise there was a Granite Crusher left!  I don't know if they had another 40 in the back, if this was 1 of 6 they had all day, or if it was really the last one in the store, but it was definitely the last one on the rack!  Needless to say, I deemed it fate and took off.

My next stop was Toys'R'Us.  I walked in and we began the "how does the Hot Toy Pick-up" thing go.  I was so intent on landing the Legendary Triple Pack I didn't even pay attention to the MASSIVE display of all things Skylanders right as you walk in...

The associate and myself were actually worried they were all sold and she couldn't figure out why it wasn't held in the back like it should be.

Well, as fate would have it there were plenty of L-Triple Packs on the main wall.  We grabbed my 2 pre-orders and I also picked up 2 Legendary Bouncers (really didn't think it would be available either).  In addition to the massive selection and the best promotion, the people at Toys'R'Us are far more likely to want to help you out and be nice.  A smile and pleasant disposition goes a long way, even if it is is a little fabricated, lol.  I have to say though, the folks at my TRU have always been super nice and helpful.

So, starting late and avoiding morning hassles was 2-for-2.

The next stop was the Walmart that had my 3DS Starter Pack.  Apparently they are the hardest to come by, likely due to (GITD Cynder+Punch Pop Fizz=Epic).  I found out where the "site-to-store" pick-up was and there it was waiting for me...pretty cool.

I then ran by GameStop and pulled in right at 6 PM.  The sign said open, but the bars in the windows said closed.  I went ahead and called and the guy was nice enough to unlock and give me the Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack.  Lucky for me I had pre-paid or that might not have happened.

Ecstatic about that and referencing that GameStop closes early Sundays (don't know why I never thought of that), I went out for the Wii Starter Pack.  Tracked down their "site-to-store" location and I was in and out in no time.

All-in-all I spent about 1.25 hours running around town and landing virtually everything I wanted with little to no difficulty...it was strange.

In retrospect, I would not have pre-ordered anything had I known TRU would have that much stock AND BOGO 40% off.  I also kind of regretted ordering the rest of the line-up "online" (LightCore and Giants), but the fact is I didn't know and played it safe.  I think I could have gotten everything at TRU with no issue.

Now with all that said and done Wave 2 hits tomorrow.  I know TRU is doing it and I have seen the stock on GameStop, Walmart, and even Target's website.  I will try my hand there and see what I can't turn up..some folks reported their stores having W2 out (Sprocket, Flashwing etc).

Skylanders Giants: Launch Day Madness

Well, here it is 4 AM and I am still Giant-less...technically speaking anyway.

Earlier in the day I made a run to Walmart just in case they broke street date...no such luck.

I had my plans to trek off at midnight and try to round up the GITD Starter Packs.  That completely got scrapped.

At this point in time, I can't believe all the 24 hour Walmarts have not burned to the ground...and I don't mean that in relation to Giants...Quite contrary this is in relation to the people manning the stores.

Not all my local WMs are 24 hour.  I asked one in the day and the manager was tracked down and she said, "Yes, Giants are coming out at midnight...or at least they should be."

Well, no biggie...I'll just call ahead and double check.

I began calling stores and the problems began.  Several just do not answer...ever.  And I know they are 24 hours because I have been in them.  And just fyi I started calling around 9:30 PM.

I finally got an answer at the store I believe the scalper still works at...The person who answered was very short with me and said she had no clue if it was going to be out at midnight and that everyone in electronics had left at 10 PM.  I'm pretty sure the scalper still works at this store and I am pretty sure that was her.  Here's why.

The only 2 other stores that answered were both clueless on Giants.  This lady acted like she knew just what I was talking about, was not receptive, and steered me away from coming.

To Walmart's credit one store was nice.  And frankly when compared to the ones that don't answer, the one that blesses you out for calling, and the other one that just can't seem to comprehend the scenario...they were great.  That said, they knew nothing.  The employee had to get their superior...they went for the manager...then the real kicker is the manager goes to the back to check stock (and this is the same store I was physically in by the way).  They finally got back to me and said they would be bringing them out, but weren't sure if it would be 12 or a few hours later...BUT that they would be out before 8 AM.

Well color me pink!  Why not drive half an hour, risk being out with drunks, and then plan on hanging out at WallyWorld for a few hours or longer.

I am not a fan of the unknown and the entire ordeal of simply calling around put such a bad tatse in my mouth  I just completely scrapped the plans.  I could see myself hitting up the 24 hour stores and either A-Finding out I was beaten by scalpers, B-Just missing what I hoped to get, or C-Coming across employees that don't plan to bring stuff out till morning.  Granted, I'm not that crazy...I know it would have been a COMBINATION of those thigns.  Gas isn't cheap, I'm backlogged on sleep, and the thought of dealing with the same people in person didn't inspire me to leave the house.

In retrospect that was probably a great decision.

By staying at home I monitored things online to see how stores were...They either seem to be complete chaos, desolate, or something in between.  Several have reported ebay scalpers clearing out virtually everything as they approach etc.

I knew I was taking a big gamble and in all honestly didn't want to get up and deal with more unknowns.  Will I be the only person at TRU when they open, or will I be among 45 enraged people looking to spend $12 to make $50 online?!  I have always been of the mindset there is nothing worth putting yourself thru that and I still am...

I took the necessary measures to get all I could pre-ordered ahead of time, but would really like Granite Crusher...That said, it simply isn't worth it to me to go out at a time I'm not usually running errands, with people hell bent on making money off of something they buy in a retail setting, and thinking I'll enjoy it.

So, what do you do?  How about the internet!

Yep, I had a great time tonight.  No crowd, no kids with flu like symptoms, no zombie-like employees, and no nutty people twice my age that make a living scalping stuff.

I had been skimming the sites all day and much to my surprise GameStop had pretty much everything up and ready to be ordered!  I checked out with what I knew I wanted (S2 Terrafin and Slam Bam, Triple Pack 2, and the 3 Giants.).  I opted for their 2 day shipping since it was only $0.50 more than 3 day and that was only a marginal amount more than standard...

As the night progressed I continued to check out other sites...

Currently the big ones have all added the current offerings.  Target is really dropping the ball not letting you order Granite Crusher imo, but then again they go to the trouble to show everything (including their spiffy LightCore 3 Pack), but won't allow you to order any of it online...not too bright imo.

Walmart finally got the charactes up and say you can have them as early as 10/26 via Site-to-Store.

The cool thing there is what went down when I just decided to pre-order the GITD Wii Starter Pack.  The link was still up and I figured by getting it shipped I'd for sure land it (several reported Starter Pack quantities were minimal).  However, upon clicking the item I had site-to-store pop-up.  Cha-ching!

I decided to simply go this route.  I still have to walk in the store for my stuff, but I can do it anytime, it should be held for me, and I eliminate the headache of going early and the stress of thinking you might miss out etc (right now it would all still be an unknown etc).

About the time I placed that order, I had my confirmation e-mail from TRU on the Lightcore figures I pre-ordered.  It looks like they are shipping Drobot, Eruptor, Hex, and Prism Break and they claim the other 4 are back-ordered.

I have yet to get word on my Legendary Triple Packs I reserved, but I was stoked to find it online (this is the most recent addition)...The only catch is that right now it AND L-Bouncer which surfaced around midnight can't be added to your cart...both have the order online and pick up in store option advertised.  I'll keep trying that.

I now basically have it set up as follows:

Sleep in...

Go to Walmart and pick up the held GITD Wii and 3DS Starter Packs (I may cancel the one I have shipping).

Wait 2-3 days for the GameStop stuff to ship direct to me.

Prepare for the TRU Lightcore stuff to trickle in...

Wait to hear on Legendary Triple Pack (which is not an "add to cart" item on TRU.com, just happened around 4:30 AM).

Continue to monitor for pre-order options on later characters and keep an eye on the status of L-Bouncer.

And that is it!

I feel like I got a lot done without the hassle.  Granted, GS or WM could cancel my orders and throw everything for a loop, but as of right now I am happy.

I have a ton of pics from earlier today and stuff I found tonight (including links to all the Giants, 9 Triple Packs, Lightcores, and more).

Earlier I also picked up two books and a Terrafin stylus!

I'll get the pics related to all of this up soon...

Hope everyone has good luck and gets what they are looking for!

Here are some shots from what I found the last few outings:

GameStop

Bonus:

I'm sure this will get corrected fast, but as of last night I found this listing for Hex, which was oddly not available (my TRU stuff is confirmed with LC Hex), but take a closer look...that is Jet-Vac!

Triple Packs

And Proof of what is to come...Triple Pack #9:

Target

Target Release Day Ad:

Target Lightcore Triple Pack:

Toys'R'Us

TRU L-Bouncer (Still won't let you add to cart):

TRU Release Day Ad

ToyWiz Character Pre-Order Preview (Timeframes etc):

Giants

Lightcore

Triple Packs

Walmart

Giants Portal Master Adventure/Photo-Op

In-Store Display

Hats, Shirts, and Posters:

Dog Tags (You Tell Me):

Umm, Misc. Stretchies?

Books (Best part of Display imo):

Giants Display Awaiting Stock:

Lightcore Tag:

Triple Pack Tag:

Battle Pack Tag:

Skylander Giant Hunting 10-18-2012

Real quick stuff here with basically three highlights for you...

1.  When I made my rounds Thursday night, I found this at TRU:

It pretty much confirms what I've said all along about Legendary Bouncer and I really think we will be seeing Stealth Elf sooner than later.  The Triple Pack of course will be there Day 1 and if you followed the blog you have hopefully already pre-ordered it!

If you skim back to my Giant Hunting post from last week you can find the tabs at my TRU for not only L-Bouncer, but also L-Stealth Elf.  Like I've said, you don't have labelled tabs/hangers if something isn't going to come out until December etc.

The only thing up in the air is L-Chill.  She hasn't been listed yet and thus far all Legendaries have been exclusive to TRU.  I'll keep my eyes and ears open for any developments.

I have a ton of stuff I want to post, but it is 4:15 AM and I've got to be up at 9 AM, which isn't a big deal, BUT factor in I need to be alert and functional at midnight for Skylanders at Walmart and possibly 8 AM at TRU and it becomes an issue.

That said, I will leave you with the other two bullet points on the night...

2.  TRU is supposedly getting a Blue Wii Bundle with Skylanders Giants and Gnarly Tree Rex!  This counters the other PS3 stuff we have seen across the pond.  Retail was hinted at $149.99 and in all honestly that isn't a bad deal considering the game is basically half that price.  If you don't have a Wii, your Wii is down, or you'd like Gnarly Tree Rex this is worth exploring...I'll keep you posted as best I can.

3.  Walmart is having a midnight release and select stores will have the Skylander Scavenger Hunt I previously mentioned.  Something I learned of Thursday night is that all TRUs will be opening up Sunday morning at 8 AM.

And with that, I am off to bed...with visions of Giants in my head.

T-20 hours now friends!

Skylanders Base 32 Gameplay Rankings

Ahoy, counterpart to the "Aesthetics Rankings" video here...

As the title implies, this is just my opinion on how the characters rate in terms of gameplay in Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure.  I am honestly weighing this 99% on how they perform in the chapters, not necessarily in Battle Mode.  This, just as the aesthetics were, remains very subjective.  Where I think Wham-Shell is a weak character, you may think he is the best.

I get asked quite a bit who I like to play with etc, and this is pretty much a definitive list on the subject.  Note that these are not necessarily my favorites, but rather the characters that I feel mesh best with my play style and get me through the levels the easiest.

This video was also recorded way back in June and just like with the "Aesthetics" I held off uploading it until post Battle Tournament time....Sadly, I couldn't find the videos, but managed to track them down tonight and add the slides.

Skylanders Base 32 Gameplay Rankings

To save time, or for those of you that like to read, here they are in text/list format:

1. Terrafin
2. Stealth Elf
3. Slam Bam
4. Lightning Rod
5. Double Trouble
6. Igntior
7. Flameslinger
8. Zap
9. Dino-Rang
10. Prism Break
11. Bash
12. Zook
13. Sonic Boom
14. Boomer
15. Drill Sergeant
16. Ghost Roaster
17. Spyro
18. Sunburn
19. Warnado
20. Trigger Happy
21. Camo
22. Whirlwind
23. Drobot
24. Voodood
25. Chop Chop
26. Wrecking Ball
27. Cynder
28. Stump Smash
29. Hex
30. Gill Grunt
31. Eruptor
32. Wham-Shell

Feel free to chime in with what your thoughts are!

Skylanders: Base 32 Aesthetic Rankings

First off let me just apologize for just now posting this video.  As you can tell, it was shot way back in June.  I fully intended to upload it and the other 2 installments (gameplay and overall), but held off because I didn't want to sway or contaminate any of the polls going on with my personal opinions etc.

I then planned to get these up shortly after the first Battle Tournament wrapped up, but sadly I couldn't track them down.  I finally found them tonight and I've edited the first two and figured I just as well post them as it is still a question I get asked a lot (ie who is your favorite Skylander?  Who do you like to play chapters with?  Which one do you think looks the best? etc).

So, here is my take on how they rate look wise:

Skylanders Base 32 Aesthetic Rankings

Just to clarify this is me ranking the Skylanders based on their looks alone.  Nothing else was taken into account for this video.  I also want to stress these are just my opinions.  Where I rank Prism Break #1, someone else my rank him #32 etc.  This stuff is all very subjective...

Here they are in text/list format:

1. Prism Break
2. Warnado
3. Lightning Rod
4. Zook
5. Ignitor
6. Dino-Rang
7. Terrafin
8. Wham-Shell
9. Stump Smash
10. Zap
11. Sonic Boom
12. Slam Bam
13. Camo
14. Trigger Happy
15. Wrecking Ball
16. Drobot
17. Double Trouble
18. Flameslinger
19. Chop Chop
20. Voodood
21. Ghost Roaster
22. Eruptor
23. Stealth Elf
24. Gill Grunt
25. Boomer
26. Sunburn
27. Drill Sergeant
28. Bash
29. Spyro
30. Whirlwind
31. Hex
32. Cynder

Feel free to chime in with your top and bottom, or even the complete list!

Skylanders Giants: My Plans

You know, the video below is pretty bad...It is too long and not to the point...In fact, I didn't even cover everything I wanted to...For the record I am dead-beat tired.  I'm battling my eyes closing as I type and flirting with stamping QWERTY into my forehead.

That said here is the video and below it is a run-down that I think is much more efficient than the vid, but I realize most people want a video more than they want to read...

Quick Synopsis 

I have pre-ordered the following: Walmart Exclusive GITD Starter Pack (3DS), Golden Dragonfire Battle Pack from GameStop, (2) Legendary Triple Packs (TRU Hot Toy List), and all 8 Light Core Single Pack Figures.

I am going to try to hit Walmart Saturday night (midnight) for a GITD Wii Starter Pack and I'll pick up whatever new releases float my boat.

Sunday I will likely go to Target to try and get Granite Crusher.

After leaving Target I'll hit up TRU for my pre-orders and to see if I can get anything I missed at Walmart including the TRU Exclusive L-Bouncer and L-Stealth Elf.

If I still have it in me I'll go to GameStop for my Golden Dragonfire Cannon Battle Pack.

Monday I will check and see if the Light Core Pre-Orders have shipped.

So yeah, there you have it...much quicker than the video, no?  Anyway, for those wanting more detail I took the top questions I've been getting lately and answered them below.  If you've got a follow up or different question feel free to ask!

Common Questions


Q: Are you going to do a playthrough of Giants?

A: Yes, it will be blind...I'll go thru right away and kind of take things as they come...I'll either go chapter to chapter, or work on completing an entire chapter (all goals/objectives) before advancing.

I plan to complete the game and go back for Nightmare Difficulty!  The only catch is I would like to have more of the "new" Skylanders when this goes down...I may drag it out if we are missing new figures or Giants etc.

Q: What do you plan to buy?

--The Game

A: Wii Starter Pack (Walmart Exclusive).  I was going to just get the Portal Owner's Pack, but after reading about Light Core figures not being bright and batteries in the portal going down fast, it makes sense to spring for the Starter Pack that includes the Portal, S2 Cynder, and Jet-Vac.  Did I mention that the Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Exclusive Starter Pack features GITD Cynder and a GITD Portal?  It is the way to go in the US imo....

B.  3DS Starter Pack (Walmart Exclusive).  I PRE-ORDERED this one.  Why?  New GITD Portal, GITD Cynder, and most importantly Punch Pop Fizz (similar to last year's 3DS Exclusive Dark Spyro).  If I can get it local I'll cancel my pre-order.

C.  Wii U Starter Pack.  This one will depend on how well I like the game and if I can justify picking it up...I'll likely be content with the Wii version, but we will monitor it...

--The Characters

A: All the Giants.  I'm not a huge fan of some of them aesthetically, but they are new and different. I hope they are fun.

B: All the new Skylanders.  I'm much more interested in "new" Skylanders than simple reposed figures.

C: All the Light Core Skylanders.  This is new and unique.  These are also PRE-ORDERED via Single Packs from TRU.

D: All the Legendaries.  I got used to them from last year (SSA) and happen to like the line-up.

E: I'll pick up some Series 2 Skylanders, but it will likely come down to if I like the Skylander, if their pose is cool, and how they are distributed etc.  Just as an example (this is not an actual pack), but say Dino-Rang and Warnado were in a Triple Pack with Hex I would get it...Logic there being I like 2 of them very well and it is cheaper to get the triple pack etc.  Again, please note that is not a Triple Pack...DR and Warnado aren't even being reproduced, lol.

F: The BattlePacks. This is new and unique...I'll give them a shot.  I have the GOLDEN DRAGONFIRE CANNON on PRE-ORDER from GameStop.

G: Any variants I find in stores.  There are ton of variants already known and more coming...I won't break the bank for any, but if I can get one for retail I'll go for it.

Q: Will you do unboxings?

A: Yes.  I will treat Giants stuff the same way I did Spyro's Adventure.

Q: What are you most looking forward to?

A: Nightmare Difficulty

Q: Who is your favorite Giant?

A: Going only off looks I'd say it is a toss up between Crusher and Eye Brawl.  I actually don't mind Tree Re x either.  Keep in mind, this could change once I know how they play etc.

Q: Who is your favorite new Skylander?

A: Going off looks only, Jet-Vac (definitely not the popular choice).  Again, once I factory in game play this could change.  Fright Rider looks cool too.

Q: Will you go for a complete collection?

A: Define complete.  I doubt it this time around.  There are just too many characters and variants etc.  I will definitely try to pick up my favorites and I might change my mind, but you can bank on me not paying over retail for anything.

Q: When will you start videos (unboxing and playthrough)?

A: Don't hold me to it, but this will likely start up on release day.

Q: Are you going to keep doing Battle Tournament Polls?

A: Yes, everyone seemed to like them...I'll start them up ASAP.

And now for some generic questions I've been getting or that are kind of relevant...

Q: Where have you been?

A: I have been ridiculously busy.  I honestly have not recorded anything major since June when I last recorded Mario Kart Wii, MP9, and had issues with Skyward Sword.

Q: What have you been playing?

A: Honestly just Wii Fit Plus and 3DS from time-to-time.

Q: Have you recorded anything since June?

A: Yes.  I do have some Super Smash Bros. Brawl stuff and a decent amount of Skylanders Battle Mode.  I might actually work on uploading some of it this weekend.

Q: Are you getting a Wii U?

A: Yes, Black Premium Bundle...even though I don't have a TV with HDMI inputs, lol.

Q: When will you upload Mario Kart Wii and Mario Party 9?

A: Soon on MKW.  I still have Parts 9-16 ready to upload...I'm not sure anyone ever guessed who I would be using, but I guess it doesn't really matter.  I might record the 150cc stuff during Giants or after the initial playthrough if I wait on some more releases or a new Wave for Nightmare.
Mario Party 9 will likely resume AFTER the initial Giants playthough and maybe after the Nightmare run.

Q: What's next?

A: Giants.  After that Mario Kart Wii, Mario Party 9, and then back to surprises.

Q: Will you get to upload regularly?

A: I hope so.  I had pegged this past weekend as when things would slow down for me and they really have...I'm still busy, but not near as much as I was the last 3-4 months.

Q: Will you blog more?

A: Yes.  I should get back to the usual once a week, if not more, post schedule.

Q: Anything else cool?

A: Why yes...I recorded my favorite Skylanders (looks and game play) several months ago.  As soon as I can find the videos I will upload them.  I held off because I didn't want to make anyone biased on the Battle Tournament Polls.

Conclusion

That is about it...I am super tired, but slightly more alert than when I started typing this.  *If* I can find my "Favorite Skylander" videos I will upload them tomorrow (Friday) and include them in a list form here on the blog.  I wanted to do that long ago, but held off to not contaminate the poll battles.

I am going to hit the hay (4:55 AM) and as mentioned, feel free to ask any other questions here on the blog.

-1ofWiisdom

Skylanders Sidekicks: Trigger Snappy and Terrabite

This is kind of a work in progress...I was tired when I made the video and now an hour later I am not fairing much better...

Nonetheless, the Sidekicks I sent off for back in late July/early August finally showed up!  I got Trigger Snappy last week and Terrabite this Wednesday (10/17).  They are both pretty awesome looking upon first opening and if you stare at them long enough they tend to put a smile on your face.

They really do nothing in the game...they basically just follow you around and hop whimsically while you save Skylands from Kaos.

If you want more information on the Sidekicks, check out the video I made earlier in the year on ordering them etc.  I'll get it linked here soon.

And just fyi there will be Sidekicks with Sklanders Giants!  More details to come soon.

Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure Battle Mode Videos

I have had all of this stuff done for quite some time, but never really had the time to edit it or make compilation videos like I intended.  My computer had so much trouble making the Giants 3DS Unboxing, I knew I had to clear out some space.

So, before I moved or deleted any files, I decided to make the videos.  Most of these will just be simple battles...most are just toe-to-toe, but there are a handful where we took turns making attacks etc.

I think I had commentary for a few, but it is much easier to just go ahead and upload as is.

I also wanted to get the Sky Goals and Sky Gem Master vids up to showcase those seldom spoken activities...both are actually pretty fun in my opinion.

Nonetheless, I'll divide these up via Bold Headings and will add as time allows.

Sky Goals

Sky Gem Masters

Battle Mode: Miscellaneous Icicle Isle Matches

I think I was P2 in most of these recordings.  Also note the Portal issue with Ghost Roaster in Part 2.  I will try and outline the matches in each video.  Some feature rematches or the aforementioned RPG style battles.

Icicle Isle Part 1

Warnado vs Whirlwind, Warnado vs Whirlwind, Warnado vs Whirlwind, Ignitor vs Chop Chop, Flameslinger vs Ghost Roaster, Slam Bam vs Ghost Roaster, Slam Bam vs Ghost Roaster

Icicle Isle Part 2

Terrafin vs Wham-Shell, Whirlwind vs Sonic Boom, Flameslinger vs Ghost Roaster, Bash vs Drill Sergeant, Trigger Happy vs Prism Break, Camo vs Zook, Cynder vs Dino-Rang, Lightning Rod vs Hex

Icicle Isle Part 3

Lightning Rod vs Dino-Rang, Terrafin vs Ghost Roaster, Dino-Rang vs Zook, Ghost Roaster vs Zook, Terrafin vs Ghost Roaster, Sonic Boom vs Ghost Roaster

Skylanders Battle Tournament Vids (Mushroom Grove)

Brackets 1 and 4: Warnado vs Boomer, Slam Bam vs Chop Chop, Spyro vs Zap, Terrafin vs Wrecking Ball, Sunburn vs Eruptor, Double Trouble vs Voodood, Ignitor vs Stump Smash, Stealth Elf vs Drobot, Double Trouble vs Sunburn, Stealth Elf vs Ignitor, Stealth Elf vs Slam Bam, Stealth Elf vs Slam Bam

Brackets 2 and 3: Camo vs Whirlwind, Prism Break vs Sonic Boom, Cynder vs Hex, Flameslinger vs Ghost Roaster, Wham-Shell vs Dino-Rang, Bash vs Zook, Lightning Rod vs Gill Grunt, Trigger Happy vs Drill Sergeant, Camo vs Sonic Boom, Ghost Roaster vs Hex, Dino-Rang vs Zook, Lighting Rod vs Drill Sergeant, Camo vs Hex, Dino-Rang vs Lightning Rod, Dino-Rang vs Hex

Misc. Battle Mode Videos

Aqueduct: Ignitor vs Slam Bam
The Necropolis: Hex vs Warnado
Cube Dungeon: Eruptor vs Warnado
Mushroom Grove: Hex vs Bash
Necropolis: Terrafin vs Hex
Mushroom Grove: Eruptor vs Slam Bam

Terrafin vs Slam Bam

Just like the title says...all battles at Mushroom Grove.