#75304
834 Pieces
Ages 18+
$79.99

Design   *****
Build   *****
Cost    **
Playability *

The Darth Vader helmet is a must have for anyone collecting the Star Wars helmets. Darth Vader is known as the baddest of the bad and so is this build when complete and on the top shelf where it belongs. A lot of expert building techniques and clever piece usage help this set earn full points in design and build. These complicated techniques, lack of function, high price tag, and no minifig in sight means it scores low for Cost and Playability.

What I like most about this set are the details used to make the iconic face mask. Plenty of curved, sloped and rigid pieces are held in place by cleverly spaced studs under the eyes and on the jowls, as well as rods and clips which hold in place the eyes and jaw.

I have not decided if I will begin collecting the helmets or not. They are expensive and offer limited fields of play. While building the helmet, however, I couldn’t help but think the solid base and connecting stem inside the helmet would make an exceptional stand for a larger airplane or space ship.