Since I was a kid, Zartan has always been my 3rd favorite GIJOE villain, right behind Destro and Cobra Commander. I think Hasbro set the benchmark earlier this year with the release of Zartan in Classified. It was my absolute favorite figure in the line so far.
I made a personal decision earlier this year to just focus on the Classified collection (and to give Valaverse and Mezco a shot, and only getting the Super 7 ultimate BAT), when it always boils down to 2 things as a collector of anything: money and space.
I really wanted the Master of Disguise Deluxe Zartan, so I took a chance and became a Hasbro Pulse Premium Member the day before Pulse Con 2021. I was lucky enough to be able to pick one up. I did not want to have to pay that $50 price point, but figured it was the only chance I had to get one of these without having to pay those second market prices. I also pre-ordered the Cobra Officer, Storm Shadow, Spirit, Croc Master, Tiger Force Outback, Python Patrol BAT and PP Viper through Hasbro Pulse, which including Zartan, has saved me close to $70 in shipping. I do plan on letting the membership lapse next year, unless I feel the membership price is worth it, I just think it's too early to tell at this point.
Needless to say, this Deluxe Zartan is my new #1 figure. I did the color change gimmick once for pictures, I doubt I'll do it again. I just love the amount of accessories this dude comes with.
I cannot wait to see what Zarana is going to look like in Classified and I'm excited to see more Dreadnoks join the line in the coming months and years.
I also made use of an extra Zartan and Duke figures for the display. Timber just for fun, not display.
