The return of Star Wars was far from a one-time thing. The success of both The Force Awakens and Rogue One – both of which are very different movies – showed that there was a market for Star Wars across the generations. Old fans could dive back into the world with new stories and old characters and new ones could start a new adventure. The fallout of these films, and the anticipation of more, means that there are lots of fans looking for toys and merchandise. LEGO have not disappointed with their new range of Star Wars building sets for the year. There is one again an interesting mixture of vehicles, battle scenes and characters that take us across the trilogies to different areas of the franchise. There is something here to pique the interest of newcomers and rekindle the love of older fans.
Top 2017 Star Wars LEGO Sets
LEGO Millennium Falcon Set 75192
There is really only one set that everyone will be talking about with the new 2017 Star Wars LEGO sets – everyone wants to fly the new Millennium Falcon. Thisis a monster of a kit, with a price tag to match, but is a must-have for many collectors. This is a 16+ kit for experienced builders, which isn’t much of a surprise as there are 7541 pieces included. In fact, it is sold as the most detailed LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon they have ever made.Also This the largest ever LEGO set ever made to date (Sep 2017).
There is great fine detail with the interiors, the weapons and sensor dishes on the exterior, as well as other elements like the hyperdrive, lowering boarding ramp and hidden compartment beneath the floor. The best touch here, however is the choice of minifigures. There is the “classic” group of Han Solo, Chewbacca, Princess Leia and C-3PO, but also Older Han Solo, Rey, Finn and BB-8 from Episode 7 and Episode 8.
LEGO Star Wars Kylo Ren’s Tie Fighter 75179 set
The new 2017 range of LEGO Star Wars sets has provided an interesting expansion on the First Order and the vehicles and scenes for our heroes from the modern films. Anyone that wants to continue this fight, and place the Millennium Falcon up against some worthy opposition in the air, should consider the new LEGO Star Wars Kylo Ren’s Tie Fighter 75179 Building set. This 630 piece set may not be as complicated as the Millennium Falcon, but it packs a punch and gives Kylo Ren a fighting chance. The ship has that iconic shape that fans expect, with nice red and black detailing on the opening cockpit and exhaust. It also has two trigger-activated spring loaded shooters to fire at the resistance.
Of course the main minifigure with this set is the man himself – complete with his lightsabre. Also included, to diversify the action, are a First Order TIE Pilot, First Order Stormtrooper and a BB-9E figure. Keen collectors should note that this is a new TIE pilot design for 2017 with a new red stripe down the helmet. This dominating, impressive ship is a must for all collectors that want the very best fleet for their aerial battles.
LEGO Star Wars BB8 Set 75187
BB-8 has been a popular minifigure and toy ever since we first laid eye on him in The Force Awakens. It is therefore little surprise to learn that there is also plenty of interest in LEGO’s brick-built BB-8 model. This clever kit replicates the spherical droid in a 9 inch tall form via more than 1100 pieces. There is the warning that this doesn’t roll like the real BB-8, as the designers aren’t quite that clever, but that doesn’t mean that this is a completely static display model.
This is a pretty faithful replica with some nice details to the motions and look. There is a wheel-activated rotation to the head, an opening hatch and a replica of his welding torch. The set also comes with a display stand for those that would rather keep him safe on the shelf than out in the play room.
LEGO Star Wars First Order Star Destroyer Set 75190
This Star Destroyer model, from the new Star Wars episode 8 movie – The Last Jedi, is one of those sets where players will spend lots of time carefully placing every brick and detail to create that perfect aerodynamic shape. This attention to detail with the 1416 bricks is probably why this has an age recommendation of 9-14. There are still plenty of opportunities for creative lay here, thanks to the minifigures and the working parts.
There is an elevator that takes characters deep into the heart of Snoke’s ship, which is the heart of the detailed interior. There are plenty of members of the First Order here for important conferences. The rest of the line up consists of a First Order Officer, First Order Stormtrooper Sergeant, First Order Stormtrooper and a First Order Shuttle Pilot. This crew, and the addition of the carry handle for high speed fight, means that this is a great opponent in many battles.
LEGO Star Wars First Order Heavy Assault Walker Set 75189
A good battle on the ground isn’t quite complete without a walker causing havoc for our heroes. The new 2017 LEGO Star Wars episode 8 range brings us this dark grey Heavy Assault Walker from the First Order. This model has a great look and all the poseable, articulated components that builders have come to expect from these modern sets. Players can move the legs and head to walk across the landscape, while shooting from the from rapid-fire stud shooter and spring loaded shooters.
There is also a cockpit for the First Order walker driver. The driver is not the only minifigure here, as there is also a First Order Stormtrooper, Resistance Trooper and model of Rey and Poe. These extra characters mean that players have a choice – play as the bad guys to hunt down Rey and Poe, or play as the Resistance to evade the enemy.
LEGO Star Wars Jedi Star Fighter with Hyperdrive Set 75191
This Star Fighter kit is an interesting project based on Attack of the Clones – so one for the big Star Wars fans that want something from each sub-theme. This is essentially a two in one set with the attractive, aerodynamic Star Fighter – complete with Obi-Wan Kenobi minifigure, and the large hyperdrive model. The hyperdrive is unlike most other Star Wars LEGO structures, with its seemingly fragile ring in a matching color scheme of dark red and white.
However, there is the promise that this is a stable structure that can stand alone on a flat surface, and it has great functionality too. The build includes those large engines that players expect, two springloaded shooters and the dock in the centre for the Star Fighter. Also included are the mini figures of Jango Fett, young Boba Fett and a r4-P17 Astromech droid that has its own space on the top of the Star Fighter.
LEGO Star Wars Republic Fighter Tank Set 75182
This Republic fighter tank is another attractive new 2017 set based on Attack of the Clones. This streamlined little fighting craft is ready for battle with a choice of elevating guns and stud shooters that are ready to take on the battle droids up ahead – or any other characters in your collection if you want to mix up the storylines. The cool thing about this tank is that it has a hover feature with its hidden wheels.
This means that it glides along most smooth surfaces and looks great. There is also a hatch at the top for the pilot mini-figure to climb into the cockpit. Additional minifigures here include Aayla Secura and a Clone Trooper Gunner. Aayla also has a lightsabre for combat on the ground, and there is also a series of tools and blasters. This combination should allow for hours of creative play for many fans.
LEGO Star Wars Tracker 1 Set 75185
There are some sets and designs that are more well-known and iconic than others. The Millennium Falcon and starships from the movies are high on the must-have list for many LEGO Star Wars kit collectors. Then there those that are not so well known. The Freemaker Adventures animated series may not be as well known to builders as The Force Awakens, but there are still some good looking models with plenty of accessories and new minifigures to collect.
This set offers the chance to fly a tri-wing Tracker 1 to locate Rowan and keep him prisoner in the special cell. There is also a Hunter droid to attach to the ship, a 3 window cockpit with swivelling seat and a pair of handcuffs. Other minifigures include Emperor Palpatine and a buildable Probe Droid. There are different lightsabres and Palpatine’s Force lightning elements for a more dramatic effect.
LEGO Star Wars Rathar Escape Set 75180
Any star ships from The Force Awakens are always good fun for anyone that wants to create epic battles with the First Order and Resistance. However, all players and builders love to recreate some detailed locations too for some well-thought out ground-based battles. This model offers plenty of peril and interesting features as the minifigures – Han Solo and Chewbacca – escape from Bala-Tik, the two posable Rathtar figures and the two Guavian soldiers.
This is a fun build with many moving parts – such as the lowering blast door and trap door. The idea is to find the fuse, hide under the trapdoor and escape with skill. However, with all the different weapons – such as Han’s blaster pistol and Chewbacca’s bowcaster – it is just as fun to shoot your way out. Players can alter the gameplay with the modular approach for many hours of fun.
LEGO Star Wars First Order Heavy Scout Walker Set 75177
This Heavy Scout Walker is an interesting model that comes from the latest edition to the Star Wars series of films. With The Last Jedi not too far away now, it makes sense to get a little sneak peak of what is in store with some new 2017 figures. This walker is an impressive piece of engineering, as there is a crawling function thanks to the use of hidden wheels. The idea is that players push the model along and it imitates the machine from the film.
This intimidating device can crawl along, helping General Hux and his crew of a First Order Gunner and First Order Flamrtrooper. The machine also has a series of guns, with elevating ones for dramatic effect and springloaded shooters, and there is space for two characters in the cockpit.
LEGO Star Wars Resistance Transport Pod 75176
This Resistance transport pod is the only sure route to safety for Finn and Rose in this new Star Wars – Episode 8 model for 2017. What they are escaping from is uncertain, as this is another new model inspired by The Last Jedi. What we do know is that BB-8 is by their side and there is plenty of firepower on this pod to fight back against the enemy. There are dual spring loaded shooters and a stud shooter.
This is a great looking ship with an interesting shape and some unique details on the design and materials. There is a large 2 person cockpit to one side, with a yellow transparent removable canopy. This is a model that will make a lot more sense in a few months time. However, the interactive wheel for the gun and the new elements mean that players will enjoy speculating.
LEGO Star Wars Darth Vader Transformation Set 75183
It is always fun when LEGO take players and Star Wars fans in a completely different direction with their kits. The most obvious approach is to build ships and scenes for big battles with stud shooters and lots of mini-figures. This Transformation Set is unusual as it takes a different sort of iconic scene from Revenge of the Sith and allows builders to recreate it in brick form.
Here players can build the medical bay that transforms Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader. The machine lowers and flips to reveal the “new and improved” Vader. Two buildable medical droids and Emperor Palpatine are also on hand to aid with the careful transformation, or to feel the wrath of this new creation. Little details like the helmet applicator and force power activation add to the story for more authenticity.
LEGO Star Wars Arrowhead Set 75186
There are two groups of fans that will appreciate the build of this new Arrowhead kit. First there are those that recognize this ship from the Freemaker Adventures television series, and will want to recreate the stories with new LEGO sets. Then there are those that feel that their LEGO starship collection is not complete without all the best models – even if this is less familiar. This fun 75 piece set has some nice details to the design to make sure that it stands out from some of the other models available.
There is transparent dome over a crystal power source, which is an unfortunate target for enemy fighters heading in the player’s directions. Other details include the flip out battering ram and a service cart full of tools to help with any crucial repairs. The set also comes with mini figures of Zander, Kordi, Quarrie, R0-GR and a Stormtrooper.
Star Wars LEGO Bounty Hunter Speeder Bike Battle Pack 75167
here is no doubt that this is a little light compared to some of the bigger, bolder and more expensive LEGO Star Wars sets for 2017. This battle pack really is more of an add-on item for a little treat than a big project. However, the combination of bounty hunter, battle and speeder bike in one sentence is one that many young fans will take note of. Here we get a cute little blue speeder bike that is ready for action, with the seat for the minifigure and the two stud shooters.
Players can choose between three characters to drive the speeder – Dengar, Bossk and 4-LOM – and each has a 4-stud blaster for extra firepower. This bike is great for adding a little drama to another situation. The last thing that our heroes need is Denger suddenly speeding into the scene.
LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 75184
All parents that are fed up with chocolate-based advent calendars will appreciate the alternative option of a LEGO Star Wars advent calendar for 2017. The basic principle is the same. Every December morning, in the lead up to Christmas Day, players get to open up a door and see what little treat they get. Each day offer a new model to add to their Star Wars collection. There is a nice blend of gifts here with vehicles, characters and a play mat.
Some parents will note that this isn’t the first time that LEGO have created a Star Wars Advent Calendar. However, this is an updated version based on the modern films, with Jakku setting the scene for the play mat and Rey’s speeder among the vehicles. The BB-8 on a snowboard, with a Santa hat, may not be canonical, but it is cute and he had to be in there somewhere.
LEGO Star Wars Resistance Bomber Set 75188
When fans of Star Wars see that there is a new bomber kit to celebrate the latest episode of the franchise – Episode VIII: The Last Jedi – there are some obvious questions. Why did the Resistance need a bomber, who is flying it and how impressive is the ship? As with many kits for The Last Jedi, the context will make more sense with the release of the film. This is a heavy-duty addition to the Resistance’s arsenal, with a bomb release function, springloaded shooters, gun turrets for minifigures and a 2 figure cockpit.
Players have a choice of characters to fly the bomber and man the guns. There is Poe Dameron, as well as Vice Admiral Holdo, Resistance Gunner Paige, a Resistance Bomber Pilot and a Resistance Bombardier. Load up the bombs, fly off to the enemy targets
and make sure to hit the mark with the release function.
LEGO Star Wars Snowspeeder 75144 Set
The LEGO Star Wars Snowspeeder 75144 Set is an interesting new model for 2017 for two important reasons. Firstly, this set is a true collectors’ edition with that level of attention to detail and clever crafting that buyers come to expect. Secondly, this Snowspeeder takes its inspiration from the “real” thing – the one that Luke used in The Empire Strikes Back. This is clear from the paintwork on the parts and sticker set, to the positioning of the guns and lasers. This is something that all older collectors and fans of the original trilogy can really appreciate. The addition of the display stand and card are a nice touch to make it that little bit more special.
However, this doesn’t mean that the model can’t be used as a toy if younger players would like to own it, build it and play with it. There are plenty of moving elements in the rotating gun and opening cockpit to ensure that this model is ready for a fight. There are also two mini figures in the box, dressed for action with their uniforms and helmets, and also blaster pistols and electrobinoculars to play with. This all means that this model is a lot of fun for any collector.
LEGO Star Wars Yoda’s Jedi Starfighter 75168 Set
It isn’t often that Yoda gets to take to the skies in his own LEGO Star Wars adventure, but that is precisely what is on offer with the LEGO Star Wars Yoda’s Jedi Starfighter 75168 Set. Here we get Yoda, in detailed mini-figure form, with his trusted light saber. When it is time to fly into action, he can hop aboard his ship via the cockpit, which has a front and top opening function. This is an impressive looking ship for such a small, calm Jedi master. The shape is sleek, made from an appealing mixture of grey and dark green bricks, and has folding wings for maneuverability.
This 2017 ship clearly isn’t there to just cruise around and keep an eye on everyone. There is also plenty of firepower in the form of the two laser cannons and the spring-loaded shooters. If that wasn’t enough, there is also the chance to use R2-D2 as a helpful ally while up in the air. This additional mini-figure has is own little dock at the back of the ship where he can ride between destinations in safety. This choice of characters is interesting for those that want to build on a collection and the detailed ship looks good against the rest of the fleet.
LEGO Star Wars Duel On Naboo 75169 Set
Moving over to the prequels, we have the LEGO Star Wars Duel On Naboo 75169 Set. This may be smaller than some of the other builds that are out there, at just 208 pieces, but it is clear that the designers have gone for a ??less is more’ approach here. There isn’t an element that doesn’t add to the structure of the generator core and purification chamber, or bring the action to life in some way. There are push-activated laser doors that allow the characters entry, a plasma element for added danger and even a catapault to send the minifigures hurtling over the gap to fight.
On that note, there are three key minifigure characters involved in this 2017 building set. They are Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul. Each model is nicely detailed in both the costumes and expressions depicted and the choice of lightsaber. Rather than use three run-of-the-mill light-saber accessories in this set, LEGO have made sure to use the correct ones. Darth Maul is threatening with his red, double-bladed one, but Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan both have their green and blue one respectively. This should be a good fight for creative players.
LEGO Star Wars The Phantom 75170 Set
LEGO haven’t forgotten about the Star Wars Rebels series in their attempts to build an interesting new collection for 2017. That is why many Star Wars fans may not immediately recognize the LEGO Star Wars The Phantom 75170 Set – if at all. This cute little ship is only found in the animated cartoon, which gives it a niche appeal and makes it an interesting model to bring into 3D form. It may be a compact craft with a non-threatening shape – including a cargo area and detachable cockpit – but this is still a Rebel starfighter. It has dual spring-loaded shooter to fight back when needed.
Also included in this set are minifigures of Kanan, Admiral Thrawn and a Chopper droid to assist them. The trio can load up the ship with weapons and goods – making good use of that detonator store – before climbing into the cockpit, releasing the retractable landing gear and jetting off for a new adventure. They also have the advantage of spare ammo and their own personal weapons, should Kanan and Thrawn wish to land and engage with the enemy on the ground. This is a fun build, for both Rebels fans and LEGO collectors alike.
LEGO Star Wars Battle on Scarif 75171 Set
Then we come even further up to date in the chronology of Star Wars movies with this new set based on a scene from Rogue One. The main aim in this movie was for the heroes to recover the plans for the Death Star and escape the enemy. This is precisely what Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor plan to do in the LEGO Star Wars Battle on Scarif 75171 Set. Thee are all kitted out ready to infiltrate this base and retrieve the blueprints – which are handily included here in Lego form. They have all the weapons they may need with the regular and special blasters, elecrobinoculars for a better view and three thermal detectors to get a better idea of what is going on inside.
The problem is that it won’t be easy to break into this fortified beach bunker. The Empire have ensured that the plans are secure behind those tough walls and sliding doors, and there are even exploding floor panels to watch out for. They can be disarmed, but only if the heroes find the control panel. To make matters worse, there are two armed Scarif Stormtroopers on guard. Will the heroes sneak through and steal the plans, or will the Empire catch them?
LEGO Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter 75172 Set
Another Rebel-focused ship that will prove to be of great use in battle is the LEGO Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter 75172 Set. This Y-Wing is a more recognizable model in this universe for 2017, and certainly seems like it would be of greater use in an aerial battle. This is first seen in the shape. The Y-shape and the detail of the build on this 41cm long model means an attractive, aerodynamic shape that players will love. This build also has moving parts like the cockpit, landing gear and rotating guns for interactive play. On the subject of weaponry, there are also many different ways for players to attack the enemy. In addition to the guns there are the dual spring-loaded shooter and bomb-drop function.
Of course it is as much about the story as the flight here, and there is also the inclusion of five minifigures to advance the gameplay. They are a Y-Wing Pilot, Admiral Raddus, Moroff, a Stormtrooper and a Rebel Astromech droid figure. Each player has their own blaster – Moroff’s being assembled from his backpack. There is also the nice touch of the weapon loading crane for use when preparing for a mission.
LEGO Star Wars Luke’s Landspeeder 75173 Set
Then we get a speeder that is at the entirely opposite end of the scale for these 2017 releases. With the Star Wars Day collectors’ Snowspeeder, there is detail, complexity in the build and elements that make it a display piece. With that comes a high price tag. The LEGO Star Wars Luke’s Landspeeder 75173 Set is different because it is a very simple, minimal build that is really more of an add-on item. This is reflected in the $20 list price. Even so, this model is still attractive and the set is a must have for anyone starting to build on a new collection based on the original trilogy.
The reason for this is the characters included and the story element. The Landspeeder is basically a means of getting Luke Skywalker to Ben Kenobi while attempting to avoid the Tusken Raider. All three minifigures are included here, in nice detail, alongside C-3P0 and a bonus womp rat. Ben has his lightsaber, the Raider has a bantha stick and Luke has electrobinoculars. This is why the set is so appealing to newcomers. It really is the ideal introduction to Star Wars in Lego form.
Star Wars – Desert Skiff Escape 75174 Set
Another new set for 2017 that has a strong focus on the characters and story over the build is the Star Wars – Desert Skiff Escape 75174 Set. Here players have minifigures of Han Solo, Chewbacca, Boba Fett and a Skiff Guard. This means that is it much different in tone to the Luke’s Landspeeder set, but it is also a nice companion piece. Han and Chewbacca are dealing with Boba Fett on Jabba the Hutt’s skiff. It will take a tactful negotiation to prevent either from walking the plank, but this is no guarantee. To make matters worse, the skiff is hovering over Sarlacc pit and there could be a nasty landing.
This is where we get the two interesting buildable elements of this set. There is the skiff, which has the nice touches of the storage hold, rudders at the back to steer in into place and that dangerous plank, which extends out. The Sarlacc pit portrays the menacing teeth and tentacles of the angry monster. It is details like this, and the use of weapons and handcuffs for the prisoners, that really helps new players connect to this Return of the Jedi scene.
LEGO Star Wars A-Wing Starfighter 75175 Set
Models like the Desert Skiff Escape and Luke’s Landspeeder are both great examples of sets where LEGO have carefully recreated iconic scenes in order to bring vehicles and main characters together. This is a must for newcomers building a new collection. Then there is the LEGO Star Wars A-Wing Starfighter 75175, where there is more of a mismatch of characters and craft. Some fanatics are a little unsure why Lando Calrissian is the main minifigure used alongside the A-Wing Pilot and a Rebel Ground Crew. Yet, no-one is really complaining because this is a whole new character to add the collection, and the model and costume are pretty good.
The main selling point of this A-Wing kit is the model of the starfighter and the chance to bring in more rebels to handle a growing fleet of ships. The ground crew member may actually be the star of the show here with his service cart and different tools. He has a toolbox with a wrench and welder to keep the ship in top condition for the pilot. When the ship is ready, the pilot can climb up the retractable ladder, into the cockpit, and run through all the systems and weapons checks.
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