Once again (though MUCH later than I did last year) it’s time for me to do my final 2011-related countdown: my FAVORITE pieces of the year.

Again, it’s very different from the “official” Heroclixin’ one. Instead of listing, as I did with that list, all the reasons each fig was a playable, winning piece, I’ll be stating:

• Why it’s a favorite that I want to play
• Why I don’t play it all the time
• When and how I’m planning to play it next

I’m starting with one that was actually sort of released in late 2010 as an honorable mention because it was a tournament prize that most didn’t get until this year:

Impulse (DC75th Anniversary 104)

WHY I WANT TO PLAY HIM EVERY WEEK:

The young Bart Allen was a super-fun character early in his career as the aptly named Impulse. But my affection for the character is outshined by his play style.

Although perfectly capable of being run as the usual hit-and-hide Hypersonic Speedster, his 17 DV+Combat Reflexes and special Shape Change (if he’s a solo target and gets the roll, he gets to base the attacker) conspire to encourage you to stay in a bit closer. This twist on HSS makes him a F.U.N. (Friendly, Useful, Nifty) little annoyance piece — well in keeping with the annoying spirit of the actual character.
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WHY I DON’T:

There are characters that are MUCH better than him at his price point, and I manage to talk myself into using one or more of those pieces practically every time I’m almost about to field lil’ Bart on a team. His keywords are only so-so for me as well.
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I’M PLAYING HIM NEXT: