The Yakface Toyguide updates resume to kick off a series of additions for The Force Awakens 3-3/4″ line. Today, we take a look at the First Order Snowtrooper from wave 2 of the Build-A-Weapon “Snow” assortment.
PROS: Hasbro/Kenner has come a long way since the first 5 POA figures they released in the 90’s. Gone are the muscle bound proportions, instead we have a near-screen accurate representation of the latest snowtrooper from The Force Awakens in a more kid-centric line of products. The emphasis on “kid centric” is important as this line isn’t intended to subvert the diehard collector, but to give options in the toy aisle. Some may hate them, but again if you do, you’re probably not the audience anyway and that can’t be helped. As for the First Order Snowtrooper figure itself, the design is solid with a lot of detail in the stark white armor. Articulation is basic but the figure stands well and the ball-jointed head lends a little “attitude” when posing the head. He includes the standard issue F-11D blaster rifle (with extended stock), removable cold weather survival pack and two pieces for the “Icebreaker*” Build-A-Weapon.
CONS: For me, the jury is still out on the build-a-weapon concept. Sure, it adds to the playability of the figure (depending on the part), and there’s a nostalgic Vintage Kenner Droid Factory vibe I get from the constructs you assemble, but as a collector, they don’t really scratch that itch fully and leave me cold. In short, I wouldn’t miss them if they were abruptly dropped from the line in favor of a waist joint or a $1 decrease in price.
Head to the toyguide for the full image gallery and to judge for yourself whether this figure is worth adding to your collection.
*unofficial name
