Recommended music: Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens – Breaking Free [This song just turned 20, like this snowspeeder]
This #StarWarsSaturday, we’re breaking free and soaring above the icy plains of Hoth during The Empire Strikes Back. From the Hasbro Star Wars The Saga Collection, it’s Rogue Two Snowspeeder!
When the Rebels’ secret base on the ice planet of Hoth is discovered, the Empire launches a full ground assault. As Rebel transports take off to flee the Empire, a few pilots attack the invading AT-AT Imperial walkers in T-47 snowspeeders. The Rebel pilots strike the walkers head-on with dual laser cannons, harpoons, and tow cables.
Zev Senesca, also known as Rogue Two, was the Rebel pilot who rescued Luke Skywalker and Han Solo from freezing on Hoth. He was also one of the few who flew his snowspeeder into battle against the AT-AT walkers.
In 2006, Hasbro released this Rogue Two Snowspeeder with the first Zev figure as a Target exclusive. As an adult collector, I believe the vehicle improves on both the vintage and Power of the Force 2 versions. The original Kenner Snowspeeder had lights and sounds. The POTF2 version updated the sculpt, added exterior details, made room for two figures in the cockpit, and included a firing harpoon. This TSC version features a more accurate swiveling tail gun, opening airbrakes, and a lever to extend the landing gear.
This snowspeeder, while lacking electronics and a firing play feature, has a great weathered paint job. A full-size vehicle with an exclusive figure for the original $29.99 MSRP was a great value, though it will cost you much more 20 years later.
The Empire Strikes Back turned 45 last May! I “figure” there will be a new Episode V figure to share here for the rest of the anniversary year. Happy 45 years and counting to TESB!
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Dale's Toys 