Recommended music: Len – Steal My Sunshine
Yes, the hour is late, but for this #StarWarsSaturday, we’re moving away from the Hasbro action figures I’ve reviewed for the past 16 months and switching to trading cards. Tonight, we’re flashing back to 2020 to look at cards from a different part of the saga with Topps The Mandalorian: Journey of The Child!
The Mandalorian debuted on November 12, 2019, alongside the launch of the Disney+ streaming platform, with the first season running through the end of December. While the first merchandise for The Mandalorian was technically released around “Triple Force Friday” in October, it included Funko Pop! vinyl figures, Hasbro Black Series action figures, and a LEGO set, all centered on the Mandalorian (Din Djarin) and not his co-star, who stole the spotlight.
Some basic clothing with concept art of “The Child” (Baby Yoda) came out soon after the show started, but most merchandise featuring the character was held back until early 2020 to prevent spoilers. At first, quickly made apparel and accessories were sold, and the first official toys were the Funko Pop! figure and Mattel 11-inch plush toy, both released in February 2020. The Topps The Mandalorian: Journey of The Child trading card set was probably the first Baby Yoda merchandise to use images from the whole first season.
Released on April 8, 2020, each box included all 25 base cards, five illustrated cards, and two parallel cards. This set did not focus on the series as a whole, as Mando’s story was not covered until a full-season one set came out in November 2020. Instead, it highlights the bounty he protects, known then as “The Child.” The cards showcase Baby Yoda’s adventures and memorable moments from the first season of the Disney+ series.
The Mandalorian & Grogu movie comes to theaters near you on May 22. If you want to catch up, you can watch all three seasons of The Mandalorian and their story in The Book of Boba Fett on Disney+. I’ll be sharing updates about the “Journey of the Child” here throughout the month.
#BabyYoda
#TheMandalorianAndGrogu
#ThisIsTheWay
#ToyPhotography
Dale's Toys 