OUTSIDE THE BOX - Marvel Renditions

A hearty welcome to 2025!! Very excited for what the year might bring.

I haven't been much of a pack ripper over the past couple years. Just not as much product that really gets me excited as there once was. I normally gravitate towards stuff that my guy, Trevor Linden, resides in. It's been slimmer pickings recently.

But I found myself busting open some packs on a couple occasions this past week. And if you're a regular here...it might feel quite outside the box.

For about 3-4 years now, I've been enjoying the Marvel deck building game, Legendary. Developed by Upper Deck over a decade ago, this game has seen literally dozens of expansions and now is a world that consists of thousands of cards. 

I love the game mechanics, the cooperative nature (and it even has a solid solo version that I play quite a bit). 

So...where am I going with this? Upper Deck recently released the Marvel trading card product, Renditions. As a part of the checklist, there are some foil versions of the Legendary cards. My ears perked up at the thought of landing some fun inserts.

I didn't know much about the product when I bought my packs - other than the aforementioned Legendary cards. But I had seen some of the artwork involved and couldn't resist.

I'm still a real sucker for opening packs. I believe it to be the essence of what the trading card hobby is all about. The real thrill of the chase.

Now....in the news world, they say "don't bury the lede", or don't keep the most important stuff to the end.

So......

Opened a pack...very excited to see a card midway down that had its own penny sleeve. That got the goosebumps going. Booklet sketch card....oh boy, here we go!! 

KAPOW!! This photo does not do the card justice. It is absolutely amazing to see this much crazy detail embedded in such a small canvas. Wow! Just floored by this pull.

One person in the store said "case hit". Heck, I think it might be "product hit"...gotta be one of the best cards in the entire release.

The artist is gentleman by the name of M. Arief Russanto. I know nothing of him other than very, very talented.

(quick Google search....young artist from Indonesia. Amazing detailed artwork.)

Now that we've seen the big hit...all this is going to look like mush. Ha ha. Seriously though, I love the artwork on these cards. And of course, some amazing, iconic characters.

It's one of the biggest reasons why I am drawn to the Marvel Legendary game, even though I know next to nothing of the comic books (which a lot of this is inspired by and comes from). But it works so well on the 2.5x3.5 trading card canvas.

This Silk card is a perfect example. The rays of light just enhance the punch of red color coming from Spidey and Silk. Gradient, blending colors create a mesmerizing flow. Piercing highlights on the hair and shoulders make this card pop.

Super eye-catching.

Some of the inserts from the packs...these are canvas comic book cover cards. They look really cool and I can see a lot of people wanting to chase down this set. Again, a perfect vehicle for the trading card.

These not rare by any means (one in every pack)...so an affordable chase is definitely there.

Base cards have some parallel versions. This is the "Goblin Green foil" offering, numbered to 399. Happy with the ones I got in my packs.

The "Kingpin Purple Tie" shiny card (numbered to 99) looks really great in the light. I don't know how they make that foil pattern dance...but it works.

I won't lie though, might be the worst card art in the base set. This Scorpion character does not inspire.

But the main reason why I wanted to open some packs....

Here are the two Legendary foil cards that I pulled. They look dynamite in person. Again, the artwork. I love how these heroes punch right through the card-style borders. Just makes it feel like they're jumping out of the cards at you. Love it.

I'm not sure if I'll chase down the entire foil set (a 90-card build). If they run $3-5 a piece...might be a tough go. They are however, seeded 1 in every 3 packs so there might be a few floating around after the initial wave dies down.

But, they might get scooped up too. It's a hot item currently. Who knows.

Nonetheless, I had a blast opening these few packs (one can say that when he hits a monster sketch booklet - literally). See what I did there? Solid fun.

Let's hope there more big hits to come this year.

What are the "outside the box" items that you chase (or want to chase)? Why?

PACK RIPPING - 2017 Canada Post Souvenir Sheets

For the fourth year in a row, I have picked up a pack (and thus a complete set) of Canada Post card stamps.  I have really enjoyed these - I think the designs and subjects have been fantastic to this point,  and was anticipating what the subject matter would be this season.

In 2014, it was the Original Six.

In 2015, the goalies got the call.

In 2016, it was the forwards who were the focus.

So I assumed it would be the defensemen that would get the packaging this year.

Not.  So.  Fast.

2017 Canada Post Souvenir Sheets

6 Stamp Set

(1 in every 40 packs has a signed stamp)

Before I share the subjects of this year's stamps, I just want to go over how great I think these are.

One pack runs $10.  You get six stamps (each with the $1.80 value attached) which can be used for your everyday mailed envelopes.  Win...win.

And if that wasn't enough, for the pack rippers and collectors in us, one in every forty packs will house a certified autograph stamp.  Obviously not every player in the six sign (some of them have passed away), but still.....what an awesome incentive.

It's a no-brainer to pick up a pack - even if it's just to collect the set each season.

So this year, it was "Canadian Hockey Legends".

I like to think that they borrowed my tremendously popular idea of showcasing Stanley Cup photos.

Yes, Maurice Richard is not "hoisting" the Cup, but it's a darn nice shot.

We've all seen this iconic photo of Wayne in full glory.

Look at that smile.  Look at that curly mop.

Good times.

A really nice young shot of Gordie Howe admiring Lord Stanley's Cup is a really nice addition.

Again, I'm partial to the guys who lift that bad boy over their head.

Mmmmmm.....not quite Mario.

Still, you just can't beat this checklist.

Bobby Orr with the huge grin.

Maybe I should start a subset called "hugs".

Last - but definitely not least, Jean Beliveau in what is my favourite card/stamp in the set.  He looks so young, so happy and the colours of the Habs look great in this pic.

So there you have it.  Another season of Canada Post stamps in the books.  I can't help but wonder what they will do next.  Future stars?  Gotta get McDavid in there soon enough.  How about the D-men?  They need some love.

I still think defunct teams would be outstanding.

Now go on out and buy a pack.  Let me know if you get a signed card!!

PACK RIPPING - 2016 Canada Post Souvenir Sheets Forwards

For the third year in a row, Canada Post got their hook in me.

Back in 2014 it was the Original Six stamp collection.  In 2015, the goalies took centre stage.

This year it's a great set of forwards that has me digging in the wallet for my extra change.

Canada Post has done a great job of putting together a progressive set - they work as individual products but marry well when you put them all together.  Six card-sized stamps of the best in the biz.

Let's stop with the chit chat and get to some scans.

I love the wrapper concept.  Makes it feel like there's an air of the unknown.  And actually ...there is.

Sure, you get six stamps (and you know which six you are getting since there are only six in the collection), but one in every 40 packs have a signed stamp.  Sah-wheet.

Sid the Kid is a great way to kick off this product.  Could you imagine hitting an auto of this gem?

Apparently the Crosby is a short print...no surprise there.

I really have enjoyed the stamp design used each year.  Nothing groundbreaking, but that's what I want in a product like this where there should be a hint of tradition and simplicity.  And....well, it's a stamp. Stamps just look cool.

But I dare not peel these to expose the coolness.  These sets will stay intact.

Yes!!  Finally, a photo of Lafleur that is more in line with the guy I remember tearing up the league in the late 70's/early 80's.

No helmet, no Rangers jersey, nothing but simple Montreal greatness.

Hoo boy.  From the penthouse to the outhouse.

Thankfully he's in an Oilers jersey.  I really don't know if I could have supported a product with this guy in a Rangers jersey.

Would've been a cooler stamp if he was in his blues.

Fantastic Phil.  Same deal here.  Why not in the black and gold?

Still, a great selection.

Helmet fail!!!!

At least he's not wearing Cooperalls.

Last but definitely not least, Stevie Y.

A great collection of players - and an even more fantastic chase for those autos.  Any of those would be gems in a collection.


Gotta think the defencemen are next up in 2017.  I'll be looking forward to it.  But where to go after that?  Could you do expansion or defunct teams?  How tremendous would this be.....

I.  Am.  In.

PACK RIPPING - 2016/17 Tim Hortons Hockey

One of the lasting impressions of the previous hockey hobby season (for me) was the overwhelming success of the Tim Horton's hockey release.  It hit a wide audience, was a quality product (that wasn't ultra high end) and had some staying power while collectors and fringe fans tried to hunt down their set needs.

It caught me a little off guard as I really didn't think that the "restaurant issue" product would really fly.  McDonalds did an admirable job with their sets over the years and really found a niche collecting audience, but what Tim Horton's did blew that out of the water.  I really feel as though it introduced a lot of new people to the hobby....if only for a little while.

So I was excited to learn of the return to the market this month for Upper Deck and Timmy's.  The drive home from work had me stop off and pick up a few packs.

Twenty - to be exact.

Now, stupid me thought that if you bought your beverage that you would get all of your packs at the discounted price (yes....I'm a maroon).  But even at the regular retail price, it's a fun and inexpensive rip.

Three cards to a pack - two base and an insert.  Lots of insert sets to be had and some tougher pulls (and crazy longshots) give something for everyone.

Um.....he's not with.....huh.

Ok, I guess UD decided that leaving Hall in the set as a n Oiler would be less of a headache than pulling the card and replacing him with another player.  I would have loved the ol' 80's OPC treatment...

"Now With Devils"

That would have been sweet.

The base cards are your usual food-issue foil-type card.  Nice, but not jaw dropping.  Not much in terms of photography or player poses...pretty simple actually.  But the checklist is solid.

100 base cards with a smattering of current stars, young studs and Tim Horton.  Cool.

I have no doubt that the Connor inserts will be popular among his young fans.  The McDavid train in chugging along at full steam.  And if there isn't enough hype on him already, his play at the World Cup is certain to get people drooling for the NHL regular season.

This Game Day Action card is a neat concept and it seems.....SEEMS as though the photos are taken from the actual game depicted on the back description.  Not bad.

Hey now.  I had to do a double take when I saw the vintage Canucks sweater with the 'C' on it.  But yes...it's Henrik from last year's retro jersey night (oh how awesome was that).

The Local Leaders set is a great concept that has had success in the past under different monikers.  And in my opinion they should go back to them.  Local Leaders doesn't breathe excitement.  It feels like a city committee meeting roll call.

Still, nice card.

Pure Gold reminds me of the early 90's Pankhurst emerald parallel.  A simple cutout slapped on a foil coloured background.

These should trade well.

I like the looks of this insert set.  Goalies....close ups of masks....sign me up.

Platinum Profiles though are not just full of tenders (bummer) but are left for the top stars.  A good silver foil makes this easily smudgeable.  Ha.

This was my big hit of the lot.  They come in 1:16 packs so I caught the right odds.  It's a nice clear card (like UD Ice) and has a slick, bold design.

I would have liked a Connor McDavid....but hey, so would everyone.

Overall, this pack rip session was a lot of fun.  There were no high expectations for big hits and I know that there will be a lot of people looking to trade.  And at the end of the day, isn't that what the hobby should be about?

Will I buy more packs?  Probably.  But I doubt I'll binge for 20 packs at a time from now on.  Maybe one overtime I hit up the drive-thru.

Good stuff UD.  (except for the Taylor Hall flub......and why is Karri Ramo in the set?)

PACK RIPPING - Canada Post Canadian Goalies

Well......after a rough few days I can say that I'm feeling better - much better.  While things are still pretty weird and crappy at work, I've started to turn the corner and am focusing more on my break coming up in a week as well as what the 2016 year will bring.

I spent some time scanning stuff tonight (trying to get caught up) and found this pack that has been sitting for a number of weeks now.

It's been almost a year to the day since I posted about a really cool stamp set put out by Canada Post.  Really nice looking "cards"....really, they're stamps but I'm never gonna use them.  I think they are a nice collectible to have that will one day be pulled out of the closet and blogged about when I'm in my 60's.

This year, Canada Post is back with a new set.  This time....goalies.

Yeah.....I'm all over this product.  This wrapper reminds me of a real cheap junk wax era pack rip.  Cool.

It's basically the same concept as before.  A six card pack, guaranteeing you a "complete set" with the shot of winning an exclusive autographed souvenir sheet in 1:40 packs.

I have no intention in actually using the stamps....but you can (how cool would it be to receive a letter with a massive goalie as a stamp)?

Let's see how they look.

Classic Ken Dryden.  A very good start.  It's a simple design that compliments last year's set.  Similar...but just different enough.

Man is he ever tall (for a goalie playing in the 70's).  His waist is almost at the crossbar.

And that mask is just a beaut.  Love it.

Bernie!!!  Nice to see a bit of an action shot (yeah....it's not spectacular, but it's better than a warmup/towel/skatearound pic).

What a cool mask too.  I should dig out my Time magazine that has his masked mug on the cover.

Done.  Watch for a future post on that.

I like the orange border around the card as well.  Matching is good.

Marty Brodeur is the most current player in this 6-card set.  It's a nice card, but it just doesn't fit for me (wait until you see all six cards before you judge).

Nothing really wrong with it....I just want a set that sits more in a certain era.

The China Wall.  What a great pic.  Fresh face ready to be pelted and stitched, leather pads and a glove that goes up to his elbow.  Absolutely no ads on the boards.

I like this card.

I like this Esposito as well, although I hope he saved the puck and isn't looking into the gaping net before the red goal light comes on.

I much prefer my Espo pics without the wire protection on his mask that he implemented in the 80's.

And, these guys wore little protection.

Speaking of....does this guy even have padding on under that jersey??

Great shot of Gump in his Habs uniform.  Sans mask (he was a stubborn one....only played a few games with it at the end of his career).  And he's so tiny (compared to Dryden).

You want to increase goal scoring?  Have the goalies wear this getup.


Anyways, I obviously didn't win any sort of autographed versions but I really wasn't expecting it.  I like that I've added this to my slowly growing Canada Post stamps collection.

Looking forward to seeing what they come up with next year.

Any ideas?

PACK RIPPING - 2014 Canada Post Original Six Stamps

I was dropping off an envelope to be mailed out over at the post office yesterday and whatdya know......

I caved.

Yeah....caved at the post office.

For months Canada Post has been advertising a really nice looking stamp set commemorating the Original Six teams - specifically, it's defencemen. They caught my eye the moment I saw them but held off in picking up a pack.

Yeah, an actual pack.

These are definitely geared towards to the hockey card connoisseur.  Nice little 2.5x3.5 cards (flimsy...as they just house a single stamp) with a front and back design.

The price per pack is $15 but I decided that there was absolutely zero risk involved in a purchase like this.

Why?

For $15 you get 6 stamps ($2.50 stamps each).  My math skills tell me that balances out.  The best part though is that in 1 of every 50 packs sits an autograph parallel.  Not all 6 defencemen get the auto treatment though (for obvious reasons).

So let's take a look to see if I landed one.

When I opened up the pack, I was taken aback by just how nice these cards/stamps look.  Vibrant colors, simple design and I've always loved the stamp motif used in hockey card collecting (maybe a subject for a future blog post).

The photo used for this Horton card is perfect.  I think the posed shots works much better than the action shot in this instance.

Gorgeous card.

The backs are good but not great.  They have an early-90's Parkhurst feel to them.

Some good information, not overwhelming but I would have liked something that would add a little character to the person on the front.  A comment or "fast fact" would've been nice.

Regardless, most people will just throw these away after they use the stamp.

Oh yeah.  This Bobby Orr is bang on.  I love the photo and it really works well with the rest of the card.

The '4' used in the background is a nice design.  Not a font but not a photo either.  Solid.  And I love the border.  A simple 2-color team issue feel with a bit of a glow or silver gradient to give it some depth.

We are officially on a roll.  Wow this card looks great.

The leather gloves Harvey is using just punch out of the photo.  Those things are massive.

Another great photo and beautiful overall design.

No auto yet, but I'm fine with that.

The beauty of this product is the consistency from player to player, card to card.  It feels like a well thought out set.

Howell looks so small with those tiny pads.  And no helmet on anyone.  Those were the days.

I must say that I like the player selection with this set.  Some teams have an obvious choice, but I think the best defenceman from those teams in that era got the nod.  Can't ask for anything more than that.

The silver border on the Chicago card was a bold move.  Every other card has the dark, rich color but I think this works because it gives a good contrast to the rest of the set.

Well, no autograph.  But I have zero complaints.

This set is really well done and anyone who is a fan of this era should put this on their "must have" list.

One pack guarantees you a complete set of six stamps and you never know if you're the lucky one to get a signed version (which look incredible...just check ebay if you don't believe me).

By the way.....don't plan on seeing these on any packages I send out anytime soon.  This set stays in the collection.  But I might buy more if I know I've got a big package to ship out.  How fun would it be to see one of these stars staring you in the face?

PACK RIPPING - 2013/14 Panini Prizm

I'm finally cleaning off my desk!  There....I've said it.

I've got paperwork and cards strewn all over my desk - some dating back a number of months.  So tonight I spent some time putting cards away (and I did some scanning at the same time).

I noticed a common theme with a lot of the cards.  Pack ripping.

That.....and caving.  Bordering on regret and buyer's remorse.

But I so enjoy ripping wrappers.  And a little bit every once in a while is ok.  As long as I get good stuff inside.

SPOILER: This is not one of those instances.


I was eyeballing some packs of Prizm on the shelf last month at trade night.  The shiny silver wrappers got the best of me and I bought five packs.

After hitting a bunch of blanks....I bought a couple more.

I put a stop to things right after that.  Ugh.

On with the show!!!

2013/14 Panini Prizm

(7 packs)

This is a nice product if you like shiny sets.  It's got a look and feel of the ol' Topps Finest products from the mid-90's.

How sad that I can't even remember how much packs cost...but I do know that it's not a low-end product.

There's a 300-card base set to chase with 100 of them rookie cards.  There are also colored parallel cards (with limited print runs), some die-cut goodies and autos...albeit stickers.  No memorabilia.

It's a nice design.  Nothing over the top (I think the shiny silver does enough of that).  Basic 3/4 body shots with not much action in the photography.

Minimal card design elements with aggressive font styles.  A thick card stock and that's that.

Player selection is ok.  Stamkos and Landeskog were my best base cards pulled.

I mentioned rookie cards and they come one per pack.  Some guys I've never heard of before (in a double rookie class...not good).  This Granlund would be my best hit.  And that's not saying much.

Very similar look to the regular base cards.  I'm already getting bored.

I did manage this insert.  It's not numbered...or rare.  I dunno, is this any good?

Quarter box it is.

The "big hit" in my 7 packs was this Mike Richter Immortalized Stanley Cup die-cut card.  I think Panini has a bit of a love affair with putting full shots of The Cup on the front of their cards.

I'm just happy it wasn't Mark Messier.  I've already felt the pain of this pack ripping episode enough.

I need to refer to this post the next time I get the urge to open packs.

Who am I kidding....I'll never learn!

Now, back to my desk cleaning (it would go so much quicker if I just attacked it a little differently.....where's my garbage can?)