G.I. Joe Manimals Vortex Unreleased Prototype AFA 80+ ** Highest of Only 3 Graded ** (Hasbro, 2001). ...

Description

G.I. Joe Manimals Vortex Unreleased Prototype AFA 80+ ** Highest of Only 3 Graded ** (Hasbro, 2001). Originally planned for release in 2001 as part of the second series of the KB Toys-exclusive Manimals line, Vortex was ultimately cancelled before production reached retail shelves. The Manimals concept revived several unreleased alien and mutation-themed characters originally developed during the mid-1990s Star Brigade era, pushing the G.I. Joe line into some of its strangest science-fiction territory. Graded AFA 80+ NM, with subgrades B85 F90 C80, it is the highest graded of only 3 carded examples of AFA 50 and AFA 60. From the collection of Brian Wilk, the figure is accompanied by a COA. Vortex fully embraced the bizarre bounty-hunter mythology of the Manimals concept, portraying the alien mercenary as a feared "Planetary Punisher" who had captured more criminals than any other Manimal in the universe, all while apparently spending enough time in alien prisons to become familiar with the "space scum" inside them.

More Information: Brian Wilk is a veteran toy and game designer and inventor who spent more than 25 years at Hasbro, ultimately rising to the role of Vice President of Product Development for the company's games division. Joining the company around 1999 following a team consolidation, Wilk held a succession of senior leadership positions across several of Hasbro's most recognizable global brands, serving as Design Director for major action figure lines including Transformers, Star Wars, and Spider-Man, with particularly notable influence on the Star Wars brand during the mid-to-late 2000s. Later in his tenure, he transitioned to the Playskool division, focusing on pre-school product development before moving into executive leadership within Hasbro's games portfolio, and he has since gone on to co-found WilkStudio, an independent invention and design firm.


Heritage Auctions provides detailed information when available but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements and photographs are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of facts, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Framed artworks are not examined outside their frames, and additional details from Heritage may be unavailable; therefore, the condition of unexamined works is not guaranteed. Heritage is not responsible for damage to frames, glazing, original boxes, display materials, or for works that have shifted within the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" in accordance with our Terms & Conditions of Auction.