The Cobra Astro Viper was first released in 1988. While collectors tend to ignore that figure, they at least acknowledge him. In 1993, the mold was repainted for Star Brigade. While the bright blue may be off-putting to some, it fits within the context of an astronaut. However, collectors generally forget this figure exists and and ignore him completely. However, the black helmet with green visor makes for a really nice visual on this version of the Astro Viper. Here's the best content on him from around the web.
Astro Viper Profile
Astro Viper at JoeADay.com
Astro Viper Dio 1
Astro Viper at 3DJoes.com
Astro Viper at JoePedia
Astro Viper Dio 2
Astro Viper by Slipstream
Astro Viper by toysandtomfoolery
I love the original Astro-Viper. While the Star Brigade version has great colors he's missing his cool jet pack.
ReplyDeleteThat was one upside of the ARAHC Shadow Viper: cheap Astro Viper V1 accessories. When you could get them for a buck or two, it was worth it just to get the gear to give to these guys or other Cobra astronauts.
DeleteOne of the most useless army builders to most fans. He can pilot the Cobra Invader, if anyone cared. The odd legs, the pointy shouldered torso, the oxygen hosed mask...even Astro-Vipers parts are difficult for customs. The space stuff isn't really embraced, no matter how awesome anyone says the DEFIANT is, it's still part of a sideshow that most fans ignore.
ReplyDeleteI'm a sucker for Star Brigade figures, and I think my favorite part of this one was green in the helmet visor. I don't know how much this guy was seeing in space, but he was doing it in style.
ReplyDelete