CRIMSON GUARD (Retaliation)

The Crimson Guard goes waaaay back...not as far as the standard Cobra infantry trooper, but far enough back. They are a big part of the GI Joe mythos. Many would argue that you can't really change or update their look since they are so iconic and "perfect" just the way they are. Now, this guy was yet ANOTHER of the many figures in the Retaliation line NOT featured in the actual movie. You could say he's been modernized and done up in the style of the movie...maybe...sorta. Anyways, Crimson guards are supposed to be special agents of Cobra who hide amongst the public and hold various powerful jobs or positions, like sleeper agents or something for Cobra's evil purposes. Ideally, they aren't really sent into battle to be wasted as cannon fodder. They still are trained for battle and such...just in case, though.

I never had the vintage Crimson Guard. I woulda used mine as special body guards or highly trained officers in battles. To a kid playing, the whole political and societal intrigue angle doesn't cut it. I would want a cool warrior! The old Crimson Guard was very regal-looking. They have changed very little over the years. We did get various armored up versions in the 90s, and a very simplified version in the mid 2000s for the Direct-To-Consumer line. The 25th Anniversary version and all variants kept the classic look. This version switches it up a bit. He still has that classic feel, yet it's updated to seem like a trooper that might be operation in the field or ready for battle. He looks less "for show" like the old CG, but actually more battle ready in this version. He has some kind of tactical vest, even more rugged looking boots and gear. Even the Helmet style has been changed. I think that the head was the only newly sculpted part for this figure. Most of the CG is what fans refer to as a "Franken-Joe" since he's made up of mostly old parts. Happens a lot...especially in more modern times. No biggie.

For accessories, he comes with a bevy of guns, a very classic CG backpack, and the best part? A sword...that slides into a scabbard on his back. Awesome! You also get a little sheet of decals so you can give the figure different ranks and what not. I've heard the stickers don't adhere too well, being both very small and because they're being stuck on a non-flat surface. Still a cool idea!

Well, I love it! A good, new, alternate look for a classic figure. Some might not like the "in-the-field" look to the character, but I do. I love the new head sculpt. Looks a little scarier than the 25th Ann. sculpt we've been seeing used. Great troop builder if you could find 'em.