To:Playmates:Good writer needed

[EZweasel]

you may be asking time for what? well ill tell you. it is time playmates hears our voices. the figures are taking a beating. seeing baxter stockman has drove me to this. first i was dissapointed by the articulation. then as time progressed the articulation got even worst. we are gettin inacurate figures. stuff that wouldnt even fit with the show. the extreme sports started it all. playmates lied to us. they told us this was as far as they would go. we are getting deep diving turtles now .with the new line of figures you cannot do anything with them. the articulation is so bad that you may as well leave them in the package. so what is my plan.....it is simple. i need a very good writer to write a letter about all of our complaints. then post it in the forum. it needs to be very well done. i know one of the reasons most people dont write them is because they dont feel like taking the time. so see if we get a great letter to send, all those who want to copy and paste it can send it to playmates. playmates would be so overloaded with email that they would then see just what we realy want out of these figures. and for those that like to be more personal they could write their own letters. im sure everyone on the technodrome could do this. that would be thousands of emails to playmates. i could even get people from other places to send it. if anyone is interested please feel free to speak up

[Roseangelo]

Where are the pictures of Baxter?

[EZweasel]

http://www.afigures.com/g/?mode=view&album=TMNT%2FStockman&pic=Stockman1.jpg &dispsize=800&start=0

here it is. what a dissapointment.

[Mr. Stay Puft]

I was going to post this, but I see you beat me to the punch because my computer froze.

Baxter looks like $#!+, and the articulation isn't all that great on the current figures. I mean they're ninjas. Aren't ninjas supposed to be flexible? I'd love to be able to pose my Elite Foot in all those badass poses from the show, same with the turtles, but due to the limited articulation, I can't. I'll give it a shot writing the letter, but I'll post it here before I send it so it can be proofread for errors. I'd also like to ask that if anyone should decide to send their own letter, please do not be rude or angry in your writing. Be polite, because, as our resident newsrat Splinter said, "an angry letter is typically never read". Thank you.

[Splinter]

Note also, that E-Mails are typically ignored as well. Just due to their ease of use. You can easily fire off tons of E-mail in one night. But a handwritten letter sent by snail mail will always do more to show your case then a simple E-Mail. So write and send letters and/or postcards. :)

[EZweasel]

Note also, that E-Mails are typically ignored as well. Just due to their ease of use. You can easily fire off tons of E-mail in one night. But a handwritten letter sent by snail mail will always do more to show your case then a simple E-Mail. So write and send letters and/or postcards. :)

then the mission has changed. how about we get someone to write a great letter. then it makes it easier for all of us/the people to write it down or print it out and send it in letter form. thanks splinter.

[LAXtitan99]

I dont think a form letter is the right approach. It shows less heart in the matter.

Rather, we should comprise a list of points that should be included into the letter, and then each write an individual letter that includes some or all of the points.

If people post points I will edit them into this post and keep them organized and from having repeats. I will also attempt to reword them being the master word-smith I am. Also points that will hurt the cause will not be included.

Lets get this done so we can get some good figures out!!!

Points to Include in Letter:
-
-
-

Where to send the letter:

Playmates Toys, Inc.
Attn: Consumer Service
611 Anton Blvd. Ste. 600
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Try to make it somewhat formal with openners like To Whom It May Concern, or something to that effect and avoid angry statements or bashing of the line/upcoming toys. We are all upset about baxter but saying stuff like "he sucks" will do nothing where something like, "I feel a utrom baxter will be a much more effective toy from the consumer end, thus selling more units, increasing profits" or some BS like that.

[Mr. Stay Puft]

Points to include:
- Baxter sucks
- More articulation (like I said, ninjas are supposed to be flexible. These figures aren't.)
- Fewer turtle variants

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

If mikey wants to write a letter, then I think he should do so. and then everybody could print it out with the letter is done, and send it on to Playmates, all the letters should say exactly the same only with different names of course. Playmates would easy notice what we do not like about their figures this way, in my opinion.

[Splinter]

Don't go the form letter route. You are trying to show that a lot of people want these changes. A form letter, while professional, makes things way to easy. Put your opinion in your own words, that's the only way to make changes. :)

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

ok, so each one of us are going to write a handwritten letter to playmates
with these 3 topics inclucded:

- Baxter sucks
- More articulation (like I said, ninjas are supposed to be flexible. These figures aren't.)
- Fewer turtle variants

Right

[VaughnMichael]

Lmao I really wish everyone could just stop a moment and to here all the Waaaaaaaas and boohoos...
If you guys write things like Baxter sucks...give me give me give me give me give me give me give me....
That's what playmates is going to see and there going to say ingrates and not give you crap anymore. And make the line totally for kids.
I'm not saying it's bad for you to write them just for the love of us all please don't go in and write letters that sound like bebop and rocksteady wrote them.
I'm disappointed about Baxter but seriously wtf....your all jumping off the deep end and this is probably how he's gonna end up looking in the show at some point.
And it wasn't playmates that promised you show accurate figures it was a dang worker that is now more then likely gone.
and you guys want them to stop making turtle variants but that's what little kids want....I have 2 nephews and that's all they want are different TMNT if it wasn't for little kids wanting all of them (and yes I am quite sure parents buy more TMNT then we do) well wouldn't be getting all the other crazy figures...another thing why don't we just save out bitching until the toy actually comes out........and my last thing I will say they gave you nicely articulated figures yet you all still continue to complain and wine about it.
But seriously please think about what you all write before you go off on some tangent about how bad this or that sucks or mine mine mine mine gime gime gime
-Vaughn Michael

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

Try to make it somewhat formal with openners like To Whom It May Concern, or something to that effect and avoid angry statements or bashing of the line/upcoming toys. We are all upset about baxter but saying stuff like "he sucks" will do nothing where something like, "I feel a utrom baxter will be a much more effective toy from the consumer end, thus selling more units, increasing profits" or some BS like that.

do you think we're going to write to playmates that their figures sucks, Have you even read this whole thread ??? And Peter Laird who is one of the main creators of the TMNT, I bet he has a bit to do with the figs, and he knows that there are still many old fans who collects the new figures too, that's one of the reasons the even made the show, and stuff like that. It doesn't hurt giving it a shot, and of course we aren't going to bash their toys, actually we just wanna help so that they will sell better and get even more popular than TMNT already is. I know that many people would probably buy the figures they like and the ones they do not like, because they're collectors, but it just isn't the same to buy a figure that you can't even enjoy, but you've only bought it cause you want all the TMNT figures

That's how I've understood all of this, and how I think of it myself

[Meira-Bates]

Seriously, I've been trying to keep my mouth shut, but I feel the same way as Putrescent. I mean COME ON people. If except for the armor turtles at least every TMNT variant is something that's from the show somehow or another. It hasn't gone crazy like the old toon line at ALL yet. What I really don't get is why people whine about the variations so much. If you don't like them then collector or not don't buy them. If it's a waste of money for you it's your own fault for BUYING them not thier fault for MAKING them. Really I'm still wishing they'd make some damned Purple Dragon Disguise and Trenchcoat wearing TMNT variants.

On the other hand...yes I'll agree Baxter doesn't look so grand, but it was surprising they made a Baxter anyway, considering we had to practicaly RIOT for it. They're trying to give people what they want but they CAN'T please everyone at the same time. You gotta remember that this company isn't working for YOU YOU and only YOU but for all the TMNT fans, and not all TMNT fans have the same opinions. It's one thing to express a little dissapointment with things, but to go on and on like this...

It's about as bad as the people who throw fits about things they don't like on the show as if they /DESERVE/ better...which is funny cause I saw a rerun of the Simpsons that reminded me of some of the folks on the new toon forum back on Saturday... Comic Book guy was muttering something about how the people making the Itchy and Scratchy cartoons owed him, and Bart protested that those people were giving him hours of entertainment for free, it wasn't possible that they could OWE him anything...yep...there's a lot of times I feel like the Bart of that scenario...

[VaughnMichael]

Try to make it somewhat formal with openners like To Whom It May Concern, or something to that effect and avoid angry statements or bashing of the line/upcoming toys. We are all upset about baxter but saying stuff like "he sucks" will do nothing where something like, "I feel a utrom baxter will be a much more effective toy from the consumer end, thus selling more units, increasing profits" or some BS like that.

do you think we're going to write to playmates that their figures sucks, Have you even read this whole thread ??? And Peter Laird who is one of the main creators of the TMNT, I bet he has a bit to do with the figs, and he knows that there are still many old fans who collects the new figures too, that's one of the reasons the even made the show, and stuff like that. It doesn't hurt giving it a shot, and of course we aren't going to bash their toys, actually we just wanna help so that they will sell better and get even more popular than TMNT already is. I know that many people would probably buy the figures they like and the ones they do not like, because they're collectors, but it just isn't the same to buy a figure that you can't even enjoy, but you've only bought it cause you want all the TMNT figures
That's how I've understood all of this, and how I think of it myself

Yes, I have seen every word that was written on this board I'm not stupid thank you...did you read what I wrote....I was not being mean just saying please don't go in like that I was trying TO POINT OUT what NOT to do.
yes I'm sure Laird & *gag* Lawson have allot to do with the figures...that prolly why most of them look so "bad" to so many people...these figures are not going to be anything like the old line because the majority of the extremely creative team that designed allot of the old figures is now gone.....or Laird doesn't want wierd monsters and wacky mutants (even though a hell of allot of the fans do including myself).
I agree with you guys the line is already starting to go stale...but playmates has to do a certain amount of stupid turtle figure for every cool bad guy or monster we get.....I'd prefer a normal or robot Baxter probably more then any of you since he's my favorite character on this new show.
But I'm not going to complain about it why because there are chances of getting another down the road or some sort of special addition Baxter of some sort....seriously playmates is allot different then they used to be....and they are trying to please everyone it seems atleast....so give them a chance...I didn't say not to write your letter but please be civil and I wasn't just talking to you Mr. Duh...but I was talking in a whole that we meaning none of us should act like uncivilized jerks to them....but I'm sure it will happen anyway.....I'm just hoping things don't get worse because of rude letters but yea I don't put it past some of the people here to write them saying this or that toy sucks lol fan people are like that........
Peter has the last say in everything I'm sure the toys go by his desk and if he doesn't like it I'm sure it wont look the same...so I am guessing he likes the Baxter figure.....but like I said before this may be how Baxter will look in season 3.
Btw once again I am not a stupid TMNT fan I know who peter Laird is....and frankly you want my opinion things have gone down hill since Kevin Eastman left. And btw he actually brought them back because he wanted to and he will stop it at any time he pleases he didn't do anything for us and he's said that a bunch of times now.
I didn't say you were going to bash there toys once again...I ment that I know there will be others who will because they are angry over an action figure and have to nitpick everything.
So let me close with saying I'm not bashing you or anyone else I'm saying like I said before just go in with an open mind question why they went with that version over a toon accurate one....we shouldn't demand things it sounds ignorant....I'm just saying write some good letters stating why you dislike this move they made and that will help down the road in perhaps getting us a blue awesome lab coat Baxter who we all really want.
-Vaughn Michael

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

Seriously, I've been trying to keep my mouth shut, but I feel the same way as Putrescent. I mean COME ON people. If except for the armor turtles at least every TMNT variant is something that's from the show somehow or another. It hasn't gone crazy like the old toon line at ALL yet. What I really don't get is why people whine about the variations so much. If you don't like them then collector or not don't buy them. If it's a waste of money for you it's your own fault for BUYING them not thier fault for MAKING them. Really I'm still wishing they'd make some damned Purple Dragon Disguise and Trenchcoat wearing TMNT variants.

I understand what you're saying and all, but when they're making kinda TMNT show related figs, why not make them show accurate ??? I wouldn't say that I hate all these new figs. But I hope that we'll get some figures which we can really relate too. It's not only the fact that they're inaccurate, some of the paints look pretty weird if you ask me. The deep divin turtles paints does not match the same color as their bandana, which I think they maybe should. Maybe it's just because of the light in the picture or something..... I don't know :| anyway, it's gonna take me a little while gettin use to this if it continues like, which I really think is a shame, because I spend so much time on TMNT stuff..

[EZweasel]

i stil think there should be a letter to where people can print out. i say this because some people arent gona take the time, but if you feel up to it write your on. it just makes it easier on the people who cant write as well.

[Meira-Bates]

One more note...ever notice how lots we've asked for has been made? Baxter, mouser 6 pack, pre-teen TMNT, Turtle Titan?

[Splinter]

i stil think there should be a letter to where people can print out. i say this because some people arent gona take the time, but if you feel up to it write your on. it just makes it easier on the people who cant write as well.
Ok, Megumi does have a point here guys. We need to pick our battles. The Turtle varients will never end. They still sell way better then any of the other figures. That's the nature of the beast, trust me. Main characters and variations of them, always sell the best.

On the bright side, Mattel isn't running the line. So you are getting more then just -all- turtle variants. And some of them are good. I like all of the ones that have been released so far, myself. The repaints need to go though, but that's another issues.

Now, again. If you really want to organize a writing campaign....pick one point and stick to it. The big issue at the moment is 'Baxter', everything else is secondary. And again, don't use a form letter. It doesn't matter how well or bad you write, just that it's in your own words and by snail mail. Noting else will show your opinion as well. :)

[Meira-Bates]

And forgive me if I seemed snapish but that rant wasn't pointed at anyone imparticular, it's just been boiling up for quite sometime between what people have been saying about the toys and new toon, needed to let a little venting out somewhere.

[VaughnMichael]

And forgive me if I seemed snapish but that rant wasn't pointed at anyone imparticular, it's just been boiling up for quite sometime between what people have been saying about the toys and new toon, needed to let a little venting out somewhere.
like wize with those things and also the only time people ever pay me any attention is when I have to just about scream or write some rant I get ignord once again just like kinda how splinter did.
-Vaughn Michael

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

hehe count me in on that one too

I just hope we can figure something out

[EZweasel]

ok if everyone is gona write a letter for themself that is fine, but i have written the letter i am sending. and here it is..there are probably some mistaken in it though.


Dear Playmates,

I write you this letter today while thanking you, i also must complain. My complaint is for the line of Teenage Mutant Ninja turtles. This line started out with some great features. They where SHOW ACCURATE. I watched the show one time and thought these figures where awsome. Later on down the line these show accurate figures started to decline. Next What was Just alright with the ARTICULAION of the first wave began to become unaparent. they had Ball jointed arms, legs and they even bent at the elbows. I look at Leatherhead now which is not on par with this. And lastly, the PACKAGING. While not something that is that big of a deal. Alot of collectors loved the Packaging of the OLD LINE..

I believe that Figures should match what they came from. I understand that sometimes its tough to get it to look exactly like the show, But this is not at all what we the fans are asking for. You Started out with 7 show accurate figures. While being a tad different it was very unoticible and all the figures where great..The next wave You continued with some more show accurate figures. I was very happy for the line and overjoyed with my new turtle figures. By the 3rd wave i became dissapointed.....out of all the figures you could have done you gave us something called extreme sports turtles...While The four turtles did do these sports on the show, the turtles never had any sorta clothes on them....this was a disgrace to the turtles. Out of all the turtle variants you could have done you gave us something that was very inaccurate. You could have given us Purple dragon disguises toys from the episode "fallen angel"....You could have even made some undercover turtles with the trench coat and hat...But you failed with your extreme sports variants. I was also disapointed with the actuall accesories that came with the extreme sports variants. they had motors on their vehicles and where very oversized. This was never in the show and was only hinted at. The inacurate show figures continued on down the line. We got Armored gear turtles. While these figures where a pretty cool idea, when and did this happen in the actual show. I have seen every episode and have not seen these variants.The space hoppin turtle where another problem...In your earlier preview you showed accurate space hoppin turtle. Later on this change to something wierd....You scrapped the whole idea of making something accurate to making something inaccurate. Now i see a preview for some upcoming turtles and behold what do i find.....deep diving turtles and repaints of UK exclusive INACCURATE TURTLE VARIANTS.

Articulation is what i like to call play value. To me it is what seperates a good figure from a great figure. I looked at your first wave and thought to myself these figure are "Good". I couldn't help be have just the tiniest bit of disapointment in my heart. You may ask why? I will tell you why. The first 7 figure you created had great apearance but where lacking in the area of articulation. They had pretty decent movment, but had one standard pose. This was acceptable though. I was willing to forgive this, but the next wave took a turn for the worst. the ball jointed legs lost some play value. and on two of your figures you completley took ball joints out of the picture. Casey joins was the only character who kept this. And He lost the play value in his legs. You continued with this trend for the most part. Leatherhead is very dissapointing. His apearance and articulation took a beating. You can even see the screws in his back...He hardly moves and is very bulky.

My last complaint was with the packaging. This is something that doesnt bother ME, but has bothered alot of fans. I hear complaints about this alot. They loved the artwork of the OLD LINE, but it seems you have become less creative sence then. All of the packaging looks the same and there is no originality. I have not much to say in this area. I just thought i would bring this to your attention.

In my last rant i would like to THANK YOU for give us some great action figures and other toys.I thought i would tell you what i do like. As i look at my figures i see some cool looking figures. I love the four show accurate turtle you have done for us. Shredder is another great addition in my collection. Casey jones is probably one of my favorite figures even though he lacks in certain areas. The Foot tech ninja and foot elit are great too.....So what is it i am wanting?? let me tell you....

1. More show accurate figures. Concentrate on what is in the show...Baxter is probably the most dissapointing figure i have seen from the line.
2. Beter articulation...ball jointed Head, Elbow, Armos, Hands, feet, Hands, Knees,Legs, and the list goes on.
3. Beter packaging. Show some originality. there are alot of fans out there who are willing to pay a little extra for the packaging.
4. Show accurate vehicles...Have you even seen the shell sub that was in the show and compared it to what you have given us : (

As always, thank you playmates for taking mine and other fans thoughts into consideration. and thank you for making great figures/toys.

[MrPliggins]

Guys, there are probably more kids than collectors who buy the toys, so that is who they will cater to. While I understand the show accurate thing and it would be nice... I don't see the variations of the Turtles themselves stopping any time soon. That's what sells to kids.
In the old Batman series of toys, they would have one villian and maybe one Robin to a case, and the rest were all Batmen. That's what sells..
They haven't gone overboard with the variations in TMNT though (like I think Batman did), and I don't think they will any time soon. There are hits and misses. Only in a perfect world would all the toys be perfect.

[jestergoblin]

Like everyone has said, there will never be an end to the turtle variants. Looking back at my old collection, I owned more Raphs than anything else (which is odd since he was my least favorite turtle at the time). I believe that there is more we need to do than just e-mail Playmates and say, "You screwed up! Fix it NOW!"

We need to tell them what we think is wrong and what we think they are doing right. How often do you write to a company and say "you guys did a great job!"? Playmates seems much more willing to work with the customers than most toy companies.

I will write them a letter next week addressing my own complaints with the line. I agree that the figures need more articulation (I am a big fan of the Marvel Legends line) and find it sad when my Leonardo is next to my Spider-Man who has more articulation in his right arm then Leo has in his whole body.

My other complaint would be the use of "action" features. I honestly despise my Hun and Casey because of their movement parts. My favorite figure of the line right now is Nano. He is such a well done figure and I wish more would be done like him. After that would be Biker Don because I love how they did his legs. If that was the norm with Ninja Turtles, I would be much happier with them as a whole.

On a side note, Putrescent, I believe that many of us collectors buy more figures per person than parents do but there are more parents buying the figures. Just from the new line, I've bought multiples of various figures already (four elites, three foot ninjas, 2 casey jones). How many kids do that? So I believe that we all have an equal say.

[Triceraton]

I don't really think the articulation is that big of an issue. Sure, some figures could definitely use more, but over all it's not bad. The only two I've felt really needed more were the Fire Foot Mystic(because there are obvious places it could've been added, and he really needs it, especially with the mystic repaints on the way) and the Turtlebot(because he's a robot, and thus easy to articulate while maintaining the sculpt, he should've had more).

They are going for sculpt over articulation, which is fine by me on a line like this. The Fighting Gear Turtles have all the articulation I'd want in this line anyway, except I'd replace the hinge hands with hinge elbows. I don't want these figures to look like the overarticulated to the point of being ugly and too loose to pose Marvel Legends. I collect LotR, and just about every figure ToyBiz has tried to take the Marvel Legends route in that line has ended up an ugly jointed, barely able to stand mess. Especially the hinged hands, these almost never work, and there have already been lots of complaints about those on the TMNT figures. If these highly stylized figures designed to look exactly like the cartoon started getting super articulated, the hinged hands would be the least of the problems.

What I'm trying to say is, there is a happy medium between unposeable statue figures, and overarticulated to the point of rediculousness figures. And, for the most part, the TMNT line falls in that area. And, for the figures that don't quite enough, well, I'd rather have a statuesque figure that's sculpted well than something with ugly joints that has trouble standing and holding its weapons.

Now, Baxter is something worth complaining about. Only because there are a lot of cool, cartoon accurate ways they could've gone. It really doesn't make sense, because almost every thing else this year is perfectly accurate with great sculpting. I can only assume that the issue is that in answering the demand for Baxter, Playmates had to come up with something, anything, fast. So we get a poorly sculpted, inaccurate figure which doesn't match the rest of the line at all.

I won't bother with the Turtle variants, because it's really not that bad. It's not like the old line, where 90% of the figures in one year are all Turtle variants, and it's not like Mattel's lines where all you can find are variants. So Playmates is doing a good job with the variants so far.

[VaughnMichael]

On a side note, Putrescent, I believe that many of us collectors buy more figures per person than parents do but there are more parents buying the figures. Just from the new line, I've bought multiples of various figures already (four elites, three foot ninjas, 2 casey jones). How many kids do that? So I believe that we all have an equal say.

allot of kids do my nephews and there friends have a lot of foot soldiers and foot elite's because they want them like the show and they are so excited about all the stuff I show them that playmates shows us fans.....I'm like there uncle turtle god lol...it makes me proud that a new generation is loving a line I grew up on...and btw the thing there most excited about is the new space hopping turtles why because I showed them my special addition ones and they were like uncle why it different now I said because the company decided to change the look there like cool! the old ones were boring atleast these ones are all different and you know what there right they are I'm sick of show accurate this and that just give me some awesome TMNT toys and I'll be a happy camper..god they could go all the way back and stop painting the weapons to how about that.
but let me just say right now if playmates starts making hideous figures like this marvel legends things I will no longer even think twice about buying turtles except characters I really love allot sure those marvel figures may be really well articulated ..but I've gotten a few for the most part there really ugly and sculpted poorly....they have trouble holding things and standing up because they have to many joints....I'm just not going to agree with any of you on articulation I'd rather have some nice statues any day that I can display then some hunk of junk that falls off my computer top.
-Vaughn Michael

[LAXtitan99]

All I gotta say is that ya'll have WAYYYYYYY too much time on your hands.

Enjoy what they put out...TMNT are back! Its better than nothing. Only buy what you want or if your a completist like me...suck it up and buy it...sheesh...

[Zachatello00]

You know what's funny? In the cartoon, every time Baxter shows up, I groan. But I would be disappointed if he never came back. Baxter is a character that is made for that reason. He's a character you love to Hate. Like, an evil Urkle or something. What's ironic is that this figure shows up, and everyone groans.

I'm not a giant fan of the new Baxter sculpt, but look at the positive side. We will be getting a Baxter figure. Accurate Shamcurate. Lax Titan is right. We have TMNT again. No more fishing ebay hoping to hook a decent turtle figure that hasn't been chewed on, worn out, or missing all of his or her pieces.

Better Articulation? What are you talking about? They're called fighting gear ninja turtles! The articulation on these guys is great! they bend at the knee, toe, knuckle, even their heads wobble. Just fyi for those of you who steared clear of these "dreaded turtle variants" all that armor comes off of them, giving you a basic turtle with good articulation.

I think we've forgotten what life was like in the old days. When Leo couldn't cross his swords over his head, or shredder couldn't hold two weapons. This line has done major work improving the TMNT.

For those who are crying about TMNT variants, I remember having basic turtles, storage shell, movie star, sports, universal monsters, you name it. That's what kids want, the line is the Teenage mutant ninja turtles line after all. Not the "Baxter Stockman" line. Kids love turtles, playmates toys love kids. They did make the cold cast statues specifically for collectors. I don't know if I agree with these reports about the "line loosing it's touch" because it's the number one toy right now.

I know I may not convince many of you to do this, but I really think it's a good idea if we don't say anything to the people at playmates about our complaints with their line. Who are we to say that we know more about making toys and marketing, and saleability and all that than the people who actually do it for a living. I'm sure we probably won't even discourage them from making the toys in the future, they're making far too much money to disregard the line. We'll probably just kill a few trees and slow them down from making more awesome toys for us by making them take a few seconds to crumple and/or tear up the letters.

I'm not doggin' on anybody, but I haven't read a word on this thread that would motivate me to do anything other than disregard any letter containing this stuff sent to my desk. We cannot simply load the module with foot soldiers and storm the head office of playmates toys and expect an exo-suit baxter. Or a lab coat baxter, or a ... say, it sounds like they have plenty of material for baxter to work with in the future. Keep your shells on guys, we've got great toys and more on the way.

Playmates has been giving us great figures for 16 years now. They've made some weird ones between 1988 and now, but they've made great ones too, and they'll make more weird ones and great ones. I'm excited about it!

[Dane E5R]

Okay. We have TMNT again. Excellent. That's great, and I'm grateful for it. But that does not mean I'm going to settle for mediocrety. I've waited entirely too long for a figure that should've been released a year ago, and this simply will not do. After all the time they've had to make nearly every other character in the series, and make them SHOW ACCURATE at that, it's ridiculous that they're trying to hand us this piece of shyte. There is no reason I should have a Razorfist figure before I have a Stockman. The only reason Playmates will keep making mediocre figures is because people continue to accept them.

[EZweasel]

please people.... i realy wan these figures to come out beter than what where getting. its a half @$$ job and im sick of it. Like i said. I guess it is baxter that has driven me to this...im going on strike. i will not buy anymore stupid turtle variants or any inacurate figures. i cant believe i even bought those extreme sports turtles. i thought maybe those would be as inaccurate as the line got. i was dead wrong. we now are getting variants of variants that where never even in the show.there are plent of variant turtles they could have done.

[Splinter]

please people.... i realy wan these figures to come out beter than what where getting. its a half @$$ job and im sick of it. Like i said. I guess it is baxter that has driven me to this...im going on strike. i will not buy anymore stupid turtle variants or any inacurate figures. i cant believe i even bought those extreme sports turtles. i thought maybe those would be as inaccurate as the line got. i was dead wrong. we now are getting variants of variants that where never even in the show.there are plent of variant turtles they could have done.
The only real problem so far, is the Baxter figure. You're trying to accomplish waaaaay to much with one letter. They will never read all of what you wrote. Stick to 1 point, and hammer it home. Staying respectful and avoidng buzz words like, suck, blow, lame, boycott. Calm down, breath easy. And stick to one problem at a time. I don't like overartiiculation msyelf, so I'll stick with the current levels. That, is for kids. :)

[EZweasel]

please people.... i realy wan these figures to come out beter than what where getting. its a half @$$ job and im sick of it. Like i said. I guess it is baxter that has driven me to this...im going on strike. i will not buy anymore stupid turtle variants or any inacurate figures. i cant believe i even bought those extreme sports turtles. i thought maybe those would be as inaccurate as the line got. i was dead wrong. we now are getting variants of variants that where never even in the show.there are plent of variant turtles they could have done.
The only real problem so far, is the Baxter figure. You're trying to accomplish waaaaay to much with one letter. They will never read all of what you wrote. Stick to 1 point, and hammer it home. Staying respectful and avoidng buzz words like, suck, blow, lame, boycott. Calm down, breath easy. And stick to one problem at a time. I don't like overartiiculation msyelf, so I'll stick with the current levels. That, is for kids. :)

well i dont want over articulation...and i wasnt rude in my letter was i? id say about 15-25 points of articulation would be great. anything between those figures. im noot saying 40 points like the marvel legends. thats too much. these figures could be 10 times beter. on a scale from 1-10 these figures get about a 4 id say. im sorry but playmates has got to listen to the fans.

[Splinter]

No, they don't have to listen to the fans. Remember, the company is only looking out to please the bottom line. Fans come second, because they know the stuff will sell. He're a less wordy and more likely to work letter.


To Whom It May Concern,

I am a dedicated TMNT fan, I have been ever since the Mirage comics first came out back in 1984. (This shows you are an adult collector). Of course I was always a bigger fan of the Archies' and the Animated Series. They were just a great source of figure ideas to your company, way back then. Just as you were to them. (This shows you are open to -different- ideas.). I was really happy to hear that TMNT was back, and again I'd be able to purchases figures of my favorite characters from your company.

So far I have been very pleased what you have released. The Toddler Turtles and Turtlebot two of my favorite releases. (This is the praise area of the letter) I can't wait to see what else you guys are cooking up for us. Hopefully you have some incredible suprises ahead. (Hope for the future of the line, and your plans to comtinue to support it).

Unfortunatly I feel that I must write to you, in regards to one of your upcoming figures. I wish that this letter could be nothing but pure praise, but I feel that I need to make these points known. It's in regard to the upcoming Baxter Stockman figure from your fine company. I feel that retail sales and fan support would be better behind a figure that was more toon accurate. There are after all many many versions to be tapped.

So far in the series, Baxter has had at least 7 distinct looks. None of which are present on the final toy. Now I understand that you're going for a more -toyetic- idea for Baxter. But other then his labcoat version, there were many many toon accurate versions that could have been tapped. I'd have even liked a labcoat version, though I understand that this could seem boring to your core market group.

I think if you take into account the rather vocal collecting group, in the equation you will discover that being more toon accurate would help your bottom line. After all, I know many many collectors would purchase a Utrom Shredder, an Oroku Saki, Karai, and any number of figures that wouldn't seem like hot sellers on paper.

Thank you for your time,

X

[Skabbz]

i wrote them too.. altho i cant remember exactly whut i wrote. lol. but i did tell them they need to work harder on the baxter fig, and that i want those original space hoppin sculpts still.

[milweskee]

I know this is a long post, but please read this!

I am not a big fan of turtle variants, but so far, they haven't really been too bad. Extreme Sports was bad, but I'm sure kids love them. Plus, they have to promote exercise for the fat a** kids in this country. Playmates even made fighting gear turtles for those of you who were unhappy with the articulation. They even had different faces for them. Those are actually on the top of my favorites list. Sure, the Space Hoppin' Turtles seem dumb to you, but they did give us special edition ones, and I bought those up. The packaging on those is great. And I like the new packaging way better than the old stuff. It's more modern and fits the new look. If they put a picture of a villian saying "I hate pizza" on one of the new figures' packaging, I would crack up, and then puke. It's dumb. It's dumb to me, and a lot of other people. This generation won't eat that. Those of us that had that stuff as kids grew up in the 80's. There were ugly color combinations and bad humor in everything those days. Music was incredibly weird as well. The 80's was like a 10 year hangover after the 60's and 70's.

Playmates also has a wonderful human resources department. They gave me a new Splinter when I told them the tail broke off.

Articulation is defintitely not a problem in this line. I think they've been doing a good job so far. No, it's not perfect, but it's not terrible either. Asking them to have all these ridiculous joints like Marvel Legends is a mistake. Those figures are a complete mistake. I only bought Blade because I wanted to put his coat on Casey Jones to make a Crow figure. Worked out great, but that's besides the point. I want to emphasize that Marvel Legends figures have less "PLAY VALUE" than an Elite Foot in my eyes. Those figures can do things I can't do, and that's just not right.

Anyways, Playmates has done a lot of great things for the fans. As for the Baxter Stockman, I wish he was different, but according to Playmates, he will be. I'm not going to say "shut up, and wait to see what they do with him" even though I would like to. I think we should express our displeasure with him, and him only. Because Playmates can obviously see that there's a problem, and they might just have to do an entirely new sculpt, so who knows. We might actually get the human version.

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

After reading this whole thread, I have realized a lot of stuff.

I might have made my conclusions about my opinion, on the playmates TMNT figures, a bit too fast, and that made me realize that should not bash something which I find very cool and awesome. I still have some stuff which I don't like though, but it's no big deal compared to all the time I dedicate to TMNT anyway.

I'm still gonna write a letter though, But I think I'm gonna be focusing on Splinter, as the main topic of my letter as Splinter mentioned. I hope we will be able to turn playmates around, so they'll realize what's wrong with Baxter, and maybe some of the other figures. Thanks for all of your opinions, they have been very helpful

Thanks

[Zachatello00]

Good work Splinter.

[Ninjinister]

I agree with you wholeheartedly, 'mlady. This seems to have gone quite too far. Now bear with me as I address certain points:

BAXTER
Indeed, I am totally disappointed with this figure. However, I will still purchase it, as it IS a TMNT figure, and I'm sure I'll be able to pop off his head one way or another to shove into the Utrom figure (whenever it is released). Every figure line does have it's "stinkers", and we cannot expect TMNT to be an exception to the rule.

MANY VARIANTS OF THE TURTLES
This is a standard for any line. Although I am one who bought nearly every variant in the past series of figures, I can honestly tell you all that this line's are infinitely more accurate:

The extreme sports line mirrors the show. The only reason they are wearing the "gear", is because you would feel even more ripped off if they were merely packaging the same old figure with the sports equipment, now would you not? It would be akin to Malibu Stacy with a new hat.

The fighting gear line is more than disappointing, however, the British recolor variants prove to be more pleasing to the eye.

Both the space hoppin' and deep diving Turtles are founded in the show... they may not be one-hundred percent accurate, but I do not wish to hear those of you who purchased the Napolean Bonafrog figure complain.

I do wish they would release some non-Turtle variants (other than Mutations and Armorized Shredder)

6-PACK MOUSERS
When was this announced? Have I missed something? And does this mean there just may be Foot Soldier two-packs?

USAGI AND GEN
I cannot say much for Gen, as I am unfamiliar with Usagi's actual world (I only have one of his comics), but Usagi himself appears to be one of the best figures thus far. He looks impressive, has very pleasing swords, and he has the ability to attack in a 90 degree angle. Usagi and Karai will be the figures I must purchase this year.

[Orochi Chimera]

If you write a long letter they might not want to even read it. It should be short and have the main complaint clearly expressed.

[EZweasel]

you people just dont get it. playmates has had their chance to do great variants of turtles. they could have done purple dragon disguised turtles, accurate space hoppin turtles, trenchcoat and hat turtles.....where are these variants? nah they just give us some crap that doesnt even fit in the show and is only hinted at. we are getting jipped.

[Splinter]

you people just dont get it. playmates has had their chance to do great variants of turtles. they could have done purple dragon disguised turtles, accurate space hoppin turtles, trenchcoat and hat turtles.....where are these variants? nah they just give us some crap that doesnt even fit in the show and is only hinted at. we are getting jipped.
No, you don't get it.

The action figure industry revolves around -toyetic- main characters. Yes, those mentioned turtle variants would be good. But how long did it take to get the Trenchcoat turtles in the old line. The continuing cries of 'It's Crap' destroy your entire argument. If you don't like it, don't buy it. Some of us enjoy the variants. I even like the Extreme turtles. Well, other then Mikey's banana yellow outfit. You're lucky Playmates cares at all to deliver as many non-Turtle figures as they do. :)

[EZweasel]

you people just dont get it. playmates has had their chance to do great variants of turtles. they could have done purple dragon disguised turtles, accurate space hoppin turtles, trenchcoat and hat turtles.....where are these variants? nah they just give us some crap that doesnt even fit in the show and is only hinted at. we are getting jipped.
No, you don't get it.

The action figure industry revolves around -toyetic- main characters. Yes, those mentioned turtle variants would be good. But how long did it take to get the Trenchcoat turtles in the old line. The continuing cries of 'It's Crap' destroy your entire argument. If you don't like it, don't buy it. Some of us enjoy the variants. I even like the Extreme turtles. Well, other then Mikey's banana yellow outfit. You're lucky Playmates cares at all to deliver as many non-Turtle figures as they do. :)

well see, i like variants, but why is playmates making all the wrong variants?
i heard it mentioned that the extreme sports urtles would have looked awful if they only came with their accesories. so why did they even make them? there where plenty of variants that could have been done to where the turtles would have looked different.

[VaughnMichael]

you people just dont get it. playmates has had their chance to do great variants of turtles. they could have done purple dragon disguised turtles, accurate space hoppin turtles, trenchcoat and hat turtles.....where are these variants? nah they just give us some crap that doesnt even fit in the show and is only hinted at. we are getting jipped.
No, you don't get it.

The action figure industry revolves around -toyetic- main characters. Yes, those mentioned turtle variants would be good. But how long did it take to get the Trenchcoat turtles in the old line. The continuing cries of 'It's Crap' destroy your entire argument. If you don't like it, don't buy it. Some of us enjoy the variants. I even like the Extreme turtles. Well, other then Mikey's banana yellow outfit. You're lucky Playmates cares at all to deliver as many non-Turtle figures as they do. :)

well see, i like variants, but why is playmates making all the wrong variants?
i heard it mentioned that the extreme sports urtles would have looked awful if they only came with their accesories. so why did they even make them? there where plenty of variants that could have been done to where the turtles would have looked different.

how about because they want the line to last a bit longer and perhaps they are saving better figures for later...your really just complaining about things that could be...I mean seriously the lines just getting started give these guys some freaking time like splinter said before you go and bash there brains in.....god complain about baxter if you wish I really still don't think it will do any good going in saying this or that sucks or is stupid.
btw I'd rather have extream sports Mike any day over Bandetto Bashin' Mike.
-Vaughn Michael

[TheRATKING]

i dont really know what to say i mean the line could be better granted but at the moment i really dont care there good figs not the all are great but there not horrid besides im just happy that there are turtle toys out there for me and others to enjoy.

[Mr. Stay Puft]

The anti-variants thing is a lost cause. However, more articulation would be a good thing. Somewhere between Marvel legends and the old-school Marvel figures from between 1995-98. Basically, ball-jointed limbs, hinged ankles, elbows, and knees, rotating neck, and rotating upper arm and wrist. That would be a perfect amount of articulation. And a more cartoon accurate Baxter.

[Mr. Stay Puft]

I guess all the people who said that that this Baxter figure is possibly a preview of season 3 were wrong. Baxter's nothing more than a brain, an eyeball and a spinal cord in a tube.

[VaughnMichael]

I guess all the people who said that that this Baxter figure is possibly a preview of season 3 were wrong. Baxter's nothing more than a brain, an eyeball and a spinal cord in a tube.
yea he prolly wont look like the toy but god I hope they change him again cause the brain thing freaks me the hell out lol.
-VM

[Mr. Stay Puft]

I guess all the people who said that that this Baxter figure is possibly a preview of season 3 were wrong. Baxter's nothing more than a brain, an eyeball and a spinal cord in a tube.
yea he prolly wont look like the toy but god I hope they change him again cause the brain thing freaks me the hell out lol.
-VM

I kinda like it. Maybe he'll become like Mutagen Man from the old line. He was one of my favorites as a kid, along with Muckman and Mondo Gecko. I always wanted a Slash figure, but I never got to have one. :( O well.

[Meeko]

I would also Like to see a better baxter and More show accurate Figures and Vehicles

But about Turtle variants
as long as we get The figures we want Who cares if they relese turtle variants
I mean Kids will Buy Them its not like there Hurting playmates or us

[Spitfire]

Maybe this sounds funny but did you stop to think about this? These toys are made for kids, kids dont really care about how much it moves or how many clones there are of the orgnial 4 they just wanna play with the toys. Us adults complaining about it will make the toy company fell that their not targeting the kids, which is what the want to do, and the toys will only get lamer and less cool. So we can't complain, sure Baxter sucks but Im sure kids will like it. Sure theres alota generic toys but Im sure kids will like them. I mean if your a kid and you know theres 6 different Dons out and you really like Don then you think, hey I have a good chance of getting a Don toy when I go to buy one. Put yourself in their shoes and you will realize this won't help us get what we want.

[Michaelangelo|DAH]

Ohh but the kids do care about how much they move and about the articulation, because they wanna play with the toys, so they have got to have a good play value...

Right!

[Spitfire]

No not really, the old toys barely moved and I played with them for hours upon hours on end. All they needed to do was hold weapons and I was happy. Like I said think like a kid and you'll see their doing the right thing. Hell your lucky they move as much as they do...kids tend to stick things in their mouths and if a kid can hurt their selves with the toy, in a non-forced manner, they wont put it out. So that has a lot to do with it as well. It might seem hard to understand but basically kids are easy to please and playmates is doing their job by pleasing the kids even though its very easy to do.

[Orochi Chimera]

6-PACK MOUSERS
When was this announced? Have I missed something? And does this mean there just may be Foot Soldier two-packs?


Here are some images of them:

http://www.action-figure.com/Article10035.html