The Black Series Snowspeeder
8/17/2020
This review was sponsored by Entertainment Earth!
Released in July 2020, the Black Series Snowspeeder by Hasbro celebrates the 40th Anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back. As the seventh vehicle in the Black Series line-up, it follows in the footsteps of other iconic Star Wars vehicles such as the Tie Fighter, Landspeeder, Speeder Bike, Shadow Speeder Bike, and Enfys Nest's speederbike. The Snowspeeder measures 19" (48.26 cm) long, 16" (40.64 cm) wide, and approximately 5" (12.7 cm) tall, and originally retailed for $119.99. If you're still on the hunt for this must-have Star Wars collectible, check out Entertainment Earth to see if they have it in stock.
Within the Star Wars Black Series line, the substantial size of vehicles can present a dilemma for collectors aiming to showcase them on shelves. Yet, the Black Series Snowspeeder achieves a favorable size balance—it's not overly small, nor does it reach the dimensions of the Black Series Tie Fighter. It falls somewhere in the middle, providing a manageable option for collectors with limited display space. Therefore, you can appreciate the intricately detailed and faithfully crafted Snowspeeder without concerns about it overwhelming your collection area.
The Star Wars The Black Series Snowspeeder is nearly fully assembled and ready to display right out of the box, saving you time and effort. Only two laser cannons and the harpoon on the back require attachment. If you prefer an undamaged display, you can clip on one of the engine covers and part of the engine. All markings on the Snowspeeder are printed onto the hull, so there is no need to fuss with stickers. The hassle-free setup from un-boxing to display takes approximately five minutes, making it the perfect addition to your Star Wars The Black Series collection.
The fully assembled Black Series Snowspeeder with Luke and Dak piloting it
The top and bottom of the Black Series Snowspeeder with open landing gear and harpoon cable compartments
Black Series Snowspeeder Parts List
- 2 Laser Cannons
- 1 Harpoon
- 1 Right Engine Cover
- 1 Right Engine
- 1 Grapple Gun
- 2 Grenades
- 1 Dak Raltar Figure With Removable Helmet
- 7 Compartment Doors On The Bottom (Landing Gear/Harpoon Cable)
- 1 Cockpit Canopy
Loose Parts Included With The Black Series Snowspeeder
Features And Execution
The Black Series Snowspeeder is a highly detailed vehicle that boasts an impressive level of craftsmanship. The attention to detail is apparent from every angle, but it's the cockpit that truly stands out. The cockpit is packed with intricate details that make it a must-see for any Star Wars fan. From the seats to the controls, every aspect of the cockpit is expertly designed to transport you into the Star Wars universe.
The seats in the cockpit are spacious enough to accommodate figures comfortably, and the pilots can easily hold the controls in their hands. The level of detail in the cockpit is impressive, with buttons and knobs carefully crafted to resemble those seen in the movies. Whether you're a collector or a fan of the franchise, the cockpit of the Black Series Snowspeeder is sure to impress.
A look at both pilots ready to take on the Empire!
The attention to detail on the Black Series Snowspeeder extends to Dak's gunner seat, which accurately recreates the iconic scene from The Empire Strikes Back. Every aspect of the seat is expertly crafted to match the film's depiction, and then some. Fans of the movie will instantly recognize the handles on the canopy, which Dak can grab and pull down to close it. This feature adds a layer of realism to the Snowspeeder, allowing collectors to relive their favorite moments from the movie.
Another neat feature of Dak's gunner seat is the small storage area for the grapple gun. This is a small detail that adds a lot of value to the toy. The grapple gun is a pivotal part of the Snowspeeder's arsenal, and being able to store it in the gunner seat just like in the movie makes the Black Series Snowspeeder a must-have for any serious Star Wars collector.
In addition to these features, the gunner seat also includes a seatbelt to secure the figure in place. The seatbelt needs to be unplugged first before seating the figure, and once in place, it can be snapped shut to ensure that the figure stays securely in place. This level of attention to detail is what sets the Black Series Snowspeeder apart from other Star Wars toys. Collectors can display their figures in the gunner seat with confidence, knowing that the figure will stay in place and look great doing it.
Dak Raltar is ready to take on the Empire! Look how nicely the figure can hold the controls!
A look at the Black Series Snowspeeder Gunner Seat
The driver's seat is just as nicely detailed. There is storage room for the two grenades and the figure is able to hold the controls tightly. Have a look at Luke Skywalker below.
A look at the Black Series Snowspeeder Driver Seat
The dimensions and proportions of the Snowspeeder look right in comparison with the 6" Black Series action figure line and the details sculpted into the hull look great. One of the outside panels can be taken off which reveals the engine underneath the hull.
A look at the Black Series Snowspeeder Battle Damage
Here is a closer look at the included Black Series Dak Raltar figure which comes with a removable helmet, two grenades and a grappling gun.
A look at the Black Series Dak Ralter figure
And here is a look at the Black Series 6" Luke Skywalker (Snowspeeder) figure holding the grappling gun.
Luke Skywalker holding the grappling gun
The Black Series Dak Ralter and Luke Skywalker action figures (look at the differences in the belt, helmet and head sculpt)
Here are a few more pictures which showcase the details found on the Snowspeeder.
The Black Series Dak Ralter and Luke Skywalker (look at the differences in the belt, helmet and head sculpt)
The Black Series Snowspeeder looks like a studio scale model, here are a few more pictures of it in flight mode.
The air breaks on both sides can be opened
The cable for the harpoon is stored in the bottom, and it didn't look as if there is a way to attach it to the actual harpoon.
A look at the back of the Black Series Snowspeeder
Summary
The Black Series Snowspeeder is an exceptionally well-executed vehicle that leaves little to critique. From the functional landing gear on the bottom to the detailed cockpit, this vehicle has it all. The figures fit perfectly into the cockpit and are easy to seat, while the paint application is top-notch, with a dirty wash and plenty of weathering on the hull. The air brakes and harpoon in the back add to the already impressive features of this vehicle, and the proportions look spot on.
One minor issue that some may notice is that the plastic on the Snowspeeder may feel a bit soft when lifted, although it is not enough to cause any damage or bending. Overall, however, this is a minor concern and shouldn't dissuade potential buyers. With a retail price of $119 plus tax, the Black Series Snowspeeder is a great value for Star Wars fans looking for a high-quality collectible. Congratulations to Hasbro on the perfect timing of this release, just in time for the 40th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back. It's a must-have for any serious Star Wars collector!
Thank you to Entertainment Earth for providing this vehicle for free for the review.