A Closer Look at Hasbro’s Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Ponda Baba Figure

The Star Wars universe is filled with characters who, despite minimal screen time, have managed to cement themselves in pop culture. One such legend is Ponda Baba, the grumpy Aqualish thug from the Mos Eisley Cantina in A New Hope. Hasbro has given this cantina troublemaker the full The Vintage Collection treatment, bringing us a highly detailed 3.75-inch action figure that is sure to delight collectors.

But how does this Hasbro Ponda Baba TVC figure stack up against previous releases? And is it worth adding to your collection? Let’s dive in.

Unboxing the Nostalgia: Design and Accessories

Hasbro has done an excellent job staying true to the classic Kenner-style packaging with the Star Wars The Vintage Collection Ponda Baba figure. The retro-style cardback immediately tugs at the heartstrings of any longtime collector.

Once out of the package, the figure’s sculpting and paintwork shine. His signature orange jacket, black pants, and white undershirt all match the character’s on-screen appearance in A New Hope. The detailing on his Aqualish face is particularly impressive, with textured skin that adds a realistic touch.

But what truly sets this Star Wars TVC Ponda Baba action figure apart is the accessory selection:

• A blaster pistol, standard for any Mos Eisley thug.
• A drinking glass, perfect for recreating the cantina scene.
• Interchangeable hands, including a version that mimics his severed limb after Obi-Wan’s lightsaber swing.

This is a fantastic nod to Star Wars lore, allowing collectors to display Ponda Baba pre- or post-limb loss.

Articulation & Poseability

The Hasbro Ponda Baba TVC figure features superior articulation compared to older versions. With ball-jointed shoulders, elbows, knees, and ankles, this figure can be posed dynamically—whether he’s brandishing his blaster or reaching for a drink.

This added articulation makes him perfect for diorama displays, especially if you’re recreating the Mos Eisley Cantina scene with other figures from the Vintage Collection.

Speaking of which…

The Iconic Cantina Scene: A Moment That Almost Never Happened

Ponda Baba’s claim to fame is his brief yet unforgettable encounter with Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Mos Eisley Cantina. When he and his partner, Dr. Evazan, pick a fight with young Luke Skywalker, things escalate quickly. Before they can react, Obi-Wan ignites his lightsaber and swiftly severs Ponda Baba’s arm, causing the cantina to momentarily fall silent.

Fun fact: This scene was almost very different! Early drafts of A New Hope featured a much darker version of the fight, with Obi-Wan decapitating both thugs instead. Thankfully, George Lucas opted for something slightly less gruesome—but just as effective.

The Mos Eisley Cantina itself is one of the most legendary Star Wars locations, known for its diverse mix of alien species and dimly lit, gritty atmosphere. It set the tone for the “lived-in” Star Wars universe, proving that this galaxy was filled with dangerous yet fascinating characters lurking in every shadowy corner.

Ponda Baba vs. Previous Star Wars Figures – What’s New?

For those familiar with past Ponda Baba figures, this latest The Vintage Collection release offers:

• More Screen-Accurate Details – The sculpt and paintwork are superior to previous versions.
• Better Articulation – The added joints provide more poseability.
• Interchangeable Hands – A first for a Ponda Baba figure, allowing collectors to recreate his severed limb scene.

This Vintage Collection Ponda Baba stands out as one of the best Star Wars TVC figures in recent years, offering both playability and display value.

Where to Buy Star Wars TVC Ponda Baba Action Figure

If you’re looking to buy Star Wars The Vintage Collection Ponda Baba online, make sure to check your favorite toy retailers. Pre-orders went live recently, but stock may sell out fast.

For the best price for Star Wars TVC Ponda Baba figure, it’s always a good idea to compare prices across multiple stores. And if you miss the initial drop, keep an eye out for restocks—this is one limited edition Star Wars TVC figure for sale that you won’t want to miss.

And for those wondering where to find Star Wars The Vintage Collection Ponda Baba after release, secondary markets like eBay or specialty collectible stores will likely carry it—but expect to pay a premium.

Final Thoughts: Is Ponda Baba Worth Adding to Your Collection?

If you’re a Vintage Collection collector, a cantina scene enthusiast, or just love classic Star Wars characters, then this figure is a must-have. It improves upon past releases, offers fun accessories, and fits seamlessly into any Mos Eisley Cantina diorama.

For more Star Wars figure news, check out my thoughts on the latest Black Series Andor figures or explore the upcoming Star Wars Skeleton Crew action figures.

With Ponda Baba joining the Best Star Wars The Vintage Collection figures of 2025, one thing is certain: the Mos Eisley Cantina has never been more complete.