7667 Imperial Dropship is definitely among the most popular Battle Packs which LEGO has ever released, providing an excellent opportunity for Star Wars fans to supplement their legions. This updated model, 75262 Imperial Dropship - 20th Anniversary Edition, serves a similar purpose so includes three new Stormtroopers alongside an Imperial Shadow Trooper.
Furthermore, the set contains a unique Han Solo minifigure which is based upon his original design from 7190 Millennium Falcon. It therefore costs £19.99 or $19.99 so seems expensive when compared with other Battle Packs. Nevertheless, army building remains exceptionally popular and this should prove to be an engaging set.
Many different minifigures depicting Stormtroopers have been produced since 2001, featuring varied printed designs and differing levels of detail. However, the latest version wears an entirely new helmet which has been the subject of controversy. This dual-moulded element is more detailed than previous designs and appears more accurate as well, especially around the lenses. Even so, I can understand why some fans favour earlier helmets as they have become an icon of LEGO Star Wars.
Unfortunately, the updated Stormtrooper helmet still cannot turn which feels like a missed opportunity, although I believe that would be difficult to achieve without compromising its appearance. The armour covering the minifigure's torso and legs remains unchanged and there seems to be limited opportunity for improvement other than extending the leg printing further. On that basis, I am pleased with the new Stormtrooper.
The three Stormtroopers are accompanied by an Imperial Shadow Trooper, corresponding with 7667 Imperial Dropship which contained the same minifigures. This covert operative wears impressive black armour and I love his imposing helmet, featuring dual-moulded pearl dark grey lenses along with some lovely metallic highlights.
Shadow Troopers feature an Imperial symbol on their chest in Star Wars Battlefront so the accuracy of this minifigure could be improved, although I prefer the plain design. A standard Clone Trooper head is found underneath the helmet and the Stormtroopers are armed with stud shooters. Alternative blasters would have been an appealing addition but stud shooters generally offer superior play value.
Celebratory minifigures are packaged with each LEGO Star Wars twentieth anniversary set, taking inspiration from the classic versions of certain popular characters. Han Solo first appeared in 7190 Millennium Falcon from 2000 and the same figure is provided here, albeit now featuring the metallic silver twentieth anniversary branding on the reverse, as exhibited in an image below.
Furthermore, the brown hair piece is now reddish brown while the white torso printing appears slightly less vivid than that on the original figure. Printing on dark colours should undoubtedly be improved but this example is relatively minor as the creamy shade more closely matches Han's arms. The smuggler wields a megaphone blaster which is similar to his classic weapon, although that lacked the trans-light blue 1x1 round plate.
Han Solo is displayed on a black base which does not divert attention from the minifigure and appears attractive. I like the metallic silver twentieth anniversary branding and the character is identified clearly, matching other minifigures from the collection. The stand can be connected to its counterparts using a black 2x4 plate and I look forward to uniting them.
Battle Packs often contain vehicles which have been designed by LEGO and the Imperial Dropship is among the most prominent such craft. The original model consisted primarily of black and blue pieces and that has been updated with dark blue highlights on the 2019 rendition. I prefer this colour scheme but still think the dropship is relatively unattractive on the whole.
An angular trans-black canopy protects the pilot and looks quite similar to the earlier rendition, leaving open sections on either flank. There is enough room for a minifigure inside the cockpit and the console is formed using a sticker, much like the Imperial insignia which decorate the vehicle. Stickers appear in relatively few Battle Packs and printed pieces would definitely have been preferable, although I like the resultant design.
Three minifigures can be seated on the transport platform towards the rear and there are slots for their weapons on either side as well. This appears considerably more detailed than 7667 Imperial Dropship and the platform is attached more securely so it cannot swing sideways. I enjoyed that function on the original model but am fairly satisfied with the updated version.
However, the platform can still be removed by raising the twin engines. This simple mechanism works effectively and offers an interesting method for deploying Stormtroopers but the platform seems rather bland when detached. Incorporating a control panel might have been beneficial, perhaps representing an Imperial equivalent of the small command centre found in 7676 Republic Attack Gunship.
Stormtroopers are among the most popular characters for army building and 75262 Imperial Dropship - 20th Anniversary Edition offers an excellent selection. The updated Stormtrooper helmets may require some acclimatisation but I think they look marvellous when compared with the source material and the elite Shadow Trooper is similarly impressive.
Moreover, the twentieth anniversary edition of Han Solo is a pleasing inclusion and I am fairly satisfied with the Imperial Dropship as well, despite its ungainly appearance. £19.99 or $19.99 seems expensive for a Battle Pack but it does contain five minifigures, unlike most others. I would therefore recommend this set, although a discount will probably be required before purchasing multiple copies to augment your Imperial army.
I hope you have found this review informative. Let us know by liking this article and share your thoughts on the set in the comments below.
This set was provided for review by The LEGO Group but the review is an expression of my own opinions.
0 
Star