The 2-1B series was humanoid, with many of its internal components visible through a translucent torso sheath. A 2-1B model's arms featured exceptional joint articulation with precision-crafted servogrip pincers at the end of each limb. Sometimes, in certain operations, these pincers could be removed and replaced with multiple arm attachments containing various medical tools and software packages, including hypodermic injectors and cutting saws.
The droid model was highly advanced and intelligent with its programming being further advanced by some of the top physicians in the galaxy at the Rhinnal State Medical Academy, which also integrated heuristic processors. The most useful characteristic of the 2-1B droids was the ease with which owners could update their programming and appendages. A 2-1B droid could easily become a specialist in neurosurgery, podiatry, pediatrics, cybernetic limb replacement, and alien biology with a trip to a certified service center. While advanced, 2-1B droids were generally paired with an
FX-series medical assistant droid for medical assistance and detailed patient analysis.
A relatively minor character. Apparently, the droid has no legs and were suspended by a build prop platform beneath the waist. That speaks for why only the top part of the character was shot in frame. But in order to make this into an action figure, Hasbro's designer gave 2-1B a pair of legs. I don't particularly like that design but applaud the effort to do so. At least it is "complete" now.
2-1B probably is never high (or even) on any collector's list to have it in the collection, but it is special to me. You see, I have the vintage one as a kid. Together with Hoth Luke, Hoth Han, Hoth Rebel Trooper, Snowtrooper, Stormtrooper, Death Squad Commander, Luke Pilot, Leia Boushh and TIE Pilot, spent many a happy hours playing with them. Specifically impressed by it's translucent stomach and detachable mouthpiece. You don't commonly see that kind of interaction on a vintage SW figure and it left a lasting impression on me.
Bought this figure carded on 19 Aug 2001 from Clark Quay flea market. That was a such long time ago! It has become a vintage in it's own rights. There is another released under 30th Anniversary Collection under 08-06 2-1B Surgical Droid with different leg design and also a slight update on the chest piece design. This 2-1B appear in EP III Revenge of the Sith towards the end fixing up an amputated and badly burnt Anakin transforming him into Darth Vader.
A pre-word before diving into the categories score. Ratings are based on today's standards therefore it can come across as being slightly harsh to this old guy.
Design - 4.5/5
Added a new category here cos at times, the line between design and sculpting can be blurred.
To be very specific on discussion on the over design of the figure, this slot is needed.
2-1B gets high score here for the following points observed :
- Actual sculpted parts are inside the translucent stomach. They can just poke a plastic rod.
- Another material is used for the hose connecting the mouthpiece to the chest.
- 1 side of the arm has a slight bent. Definitely better than having both arm as straight as a runway.
Small nit-picking on the leg design that I'd prefer it be designed with a kicking articulation.
Sculpting - 4/5
Highlighting the texture on the supposedly cast metal portion (chest, head, hip). Enhancing the part and makes it believable to be cast metal parts.
The lows on elbow pistons mechanism can be sculpted in better details. It will be expected if a new 2-1B is to be release today.
But overall, this figure is excellently sculpted even in today's standard.
Painting - 3.5/5
Rubber piece from the thigh are painted black when they can just leave the whole leg as 1 colour. Extra effort there earns extra points. Chest "emblem" thing is also painted on nicely with no visible bleed.
What needs to he had is some washes inside the eye sockets to add layers. And some hydraulic fluid stains in and around the piston and joints would be nice. But it can be argued that this is a medical droid and it should be spit-spanking clean. It depends on preference. For aesthetic sake, I'd personally prefer it to have additional shades.
Articulation - 2.5/5
Knee, elblow should include movable joints. Here I also prefer the vintage design where the legs can do a kick. Here, it can't. it can turn ever so slightly from the hip joint but to me, it does nothing. No waist articulation due to the design, I let it slide.
Otherwise, it has all the standard articulation and will get a passing score here.
Accessories - N/A
It has what it need (or actually don't need). But kudos to a brand new unique sculpt of the handheld apparatus, the sky is the limit on how or what we all want it to be.
This is a really excellent figure given its age, there is hardly an urgent need for an upgrade. Like an acquired taste. Buy it if still not have 1, its just a 3.75" figure and it doesn't takes up a lot of space.
I hope a 12" version be made will definitely buy 1 if only for nostalgia sake.
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