Inside Hasbro: The Making Of A Star Wars Action Figure

The next issue of Star Wars Insider is one collectors will not want to miss. Hitting newsstands on Tuesday, August 19, issue #233 features a special “Inside Hasbro” interview with senior design director Steve Evans, conducted by none other than Mark Newbold — a familiar name in the Star Wars collecting world for decades and co-founder of FanthaTracks.com. Newbold’s deep knowledge of the hobby and long-standing presence in the community make him the perfect guide for this fascinating conversation.

Evans pulls back the curtain on the step-by-step process Hasbro follows when developing a Star Wars figure, from early concept discussions with Lucasfilm to final production. He explains how the team constantly listens to fan feedback at conventions and online, using that input to guide decisions — whether that means updating a classic character like Luke Skywalker, introducing “left-field” choices such as the Heir to the Empire 3-pack, or creating specialty sub-lines like the Gaming Greats for The Black Series.

One of the highlights of the interview is hearing Evans talk about the unseen details Hasbro’s designers invent when reference material is incomplete — for example, imagining what a costumed character’s back might look like under a cape, or designing entire interior spaces for vehicles like Jabba’s Sail Barge that were never shown on screen. He also discusses technical milestones such as the introduction of PhotoReal face printing, which has brought a new level of realism to figure likenesses, and fun Easter eggs like the hidden coffee cup inside the Vintage Collection Imperial Combat Assault Tank.

If you’re a collector who loves hearing how your figures are made — or you just appreciate the artistry that goes into them — you won’t want to miss this feature. Star Wars Insider #233 hits shelves this Tuesday, August 19, so pick up a copy and enjoy an inside look at the creative process from one of the most influential voices in modern Star Wars collectibles.