As well as offering the first open-faced helmet in the LEGO® Star Wars Helmet Collection, the latest wave of sets also tackles its first droid. The Dark Troopers were introduced during the second season of The Mandalorian. But they were born in Star Wars Legends, the catchall name for past Star Wars stories no longer considered part of the canon storyline. In Legends, they were introduced in the video game Dark Forces, where the Dark Troopers were exoskeleton suits worn by cybernetically altered troopers. In The Mandalorian, they are now a third-generation design and completely automated droids and evidently no match for a certain Jedi master. But are they a match for LEGO Star Wars fans? Here’s my review of the Dark Trooper Helmet.
Product Details
Take a trip to the dark side with this buildable LEGO® Star Wars™ Dark Trooper Helmet (75343) model for adults. Enjoy mindful quality time recreating the distinctive contours of the helmet as seen in Star Wars: The Mandalorian Season 2. Evil red eyes, constructed using translucent red LEGO elements, and the slight forward tilt of the helmet on its brick-built stand deliver an authentic menacing look.
- Set Name: Dark Trooper
- Set Number: 75343
- Pieces: 693
- RRP: £54.99/$59.99/59.99€
- Number of Bags: Bags x 5
- Stickers: Sheet x 1
- Instructions: Booklet x 1
- Availability: LEGO Stores, LEGO Online & Limited Retail from March 1st
The canon version of the Dark Troopers are a very recent addition to the Star Wars universe, but they have certainly made an impact. Having already appeared in Minifigure form in a set last year as well as an upcoming one next month, the Dark Troopers introduction on Disney+ are loved by fans. So these menacing tools of the Empire are nicely suited to the Helmet Collection. The set includes five numbered bags, the instruction booklet and a sticker sheet. The stickers add a little detail to various sections of the helmet.
The build begins with the core of the Dark Trooper’s helmet, unlike some of the other characters’ lids, the Dark Trooper’s head is far more compact as there’s no need for a head to fit in there. This certainly makes it seem a lot more menacing. Something also achieved by a new technique deployed for the Helmet Collection. Most other sets are mounted onto the display plinth either by slotting onto a Technic beam-column or by simply connected via studs. The one is actually mounted on a sloped section, which angles the helmet in a unique way.
To get the curved angles of the Dark Troopers head, they are achieved by the layering of elements or sections connected via ball joints or hinges. These all fit together nicely and there’s minimal need to get them to sit in place. The only iffy section is clad around the base of the helmet and the top of the stand. These pieces are easily knocked out of place.
Sets which are largely made up of a single colour can be a little underwhelming, but there are enough sections and angled pieces to give it an interesting appearance. Even the stickers help with this, their use is still disappointing in a displayable set, especially since print detail can be added to a variety of elements in a 4+ set. Thankfully the display plate is printed. One of my favourite parts of the set is how the eyes have been integrated into the build. Transparent red plates are surrounded by black angular plates to create their menacing glare.
I’ve seen some disappointment with a large number of studs on show on the top of the helmet. Personally, I don’t find this an issue, in fact, the stud is an iconic part of the LEGO ecosystem. Plus it gives the build some texture even if this doesn’t perfectly match with the on-screen versions. Regardless, it’s another decent addition to the Helmet Collection and looks nice sat alongside any of the previous sets.
Review Round-up
Single coloured sets are always a little drab, especially if you set them against something like the X-wing helmet, but the Dark Trooper has a nice spread of details and build techniques. The way the head is sloped forward helps to enforce the imposing gaze of this new foe.
For
+ An interesting build
+ Great use of parts
+ An imposing display pieceAgainst
– A bit bland in terms of colour
– Some stickered pieces would have been better printed
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This set was provided by the LEGO Group for purposes of review. The thoughts within this review are that of BricksFanz and do not reflect those of the LEGO Group or Disney. Providing a set for free does not guarantee a favourable opinion of the set.
