While
the card-back (or paper insert nowadays) describes Captain Dasha as a
“lovely master of war and sorcery,” she’s no looker – but I
suppose the “master of war and sorcery” part is correct.However, even given these powers she can’t stand worth a damn.
I
should qualify that last statement.Without wearing and holding the full complement of accessories,
Captain Dasha can’t stand worth a damn.After wracking my brain, I haven’t been able to come up with
another figure that won’t stand well without holding the
accessories.I can think of
plenty of figures that fall over when holding accessories – they’re
a dime a dozen (or $25 at most comic shops).Compounding this problem is the fact there are no holes in the
feet to allow pegging to a display base.
Part
of the balancing problem is the overall sculpt.She leans in a provocative way – much like Abbey Chase from the
Danger Girl line.However,
the details are terrific with an interesting mix of stitched cloth and
exposed chain mail.Even
the accessories have been given attention and really do look hobbled
together with all-natural fibers.I
really like the trilobite wrist gauntlet that fits on her left arm.Instead of having the standard black omega fasteners, there are
two bone-like hooks that make for continuity of the entire ensemble.The paint is applied without oversplash and the overall style is
consistent with the rest of the Ultima Online figures.
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Poseability
is hampered by the classic articulation arrangement: seam joints at the
hips, shoulders (and two on the left arm, one on the right), and neck.There could have been more articulation, but the fact there are a
limited number of joints makes her somewhat more durable.
Whenever
I put a figure through the playtest, I always secretly hold my breath.I hate breaking a perfectly good figure.Most pull through with no problems and Captain Dasha was no
different. (I would expect nothing less from a master of war.)The blade on her right wrist can be snapped off, but it’s a
simple matter of gluing it back on.She is extremely compatible with practically every female figure
McFarlane Toys has ever produced and fits right in with the rest of the
Ultima figures.As a
result, interesting dioramas are possible (and many play opportunities
if you’re one of those closeted collectors who plays with his toys).Accessories can be lost but some of this is alleviated by the
fact they all attach to her or hang off the belts.Another detraction is that she lacks that “cool” factor.She looks impressive with all her weapons and armor just standing
there – but when you actually play with her, she doesn’t hold your
interest.
Completionists,
collectors, and fans have already snagged Captain Dasha to round out
their collection of Ultima Online figures.With all her problems, she still manages to look good on display
(when she stays standing).For
people more concerned with playability, they may want to think twice.