Looking at my local Toys R Us ad I can confirm the deal of free figure AND POWER DISC when you preorder the starter pack. Will have to bring the ad with me on launch day to guarantee they honor the deal.
Also TRU is having sale on Skylanders (Skylanders Giants 2 for $22 and Skylanders Giant Starter Pack $30). Looks like they are trying to clear inventory (shelf space) for Disney Infinity!