Roleplay as the villains from the classic Star Wars trilogy with LEGO's latest version of the Imperial TIE Fighter (75300). Capturing the authentic, sleek design of the iconic starfighter in the Imperial fleet, it features three minifigures (a TIE Fighter Pilot with a blaster pistol, a Stormtrooper with a blaster, plus an NI-L8 Protocol Droid), an opening cockpit and two spring-loaded shooters...

This 432-piece model (75300) is the latest TIE Fighter in the LEGO Star Wars range

Measuring over 6.5 in. (17 cm) high, 5.5 in. (14 cm) long and 6 in. (15 cm) wide, this 432-piece model (75300) is the latest TIE Fighter in the LEGO Star Wars range.

So far, between 2001 and 2021 LEGO has released six standard sized Imperial TIE Fighter models. We originally reviewed the very first TIE Fighter, (model 7146) released in 2001. That had 169 pieces, 2 minifigures and cost £16.99. This 2021 model has 432 pieces, 3 minifigures and costs £34.99.

Arguably the best looking version is 2018's model (7521), which has 519 pieces, cost £59.99 on release and looks very similar to the new 2021 kit, apart from the wings which are much taller. When placed next to each other, 2018's 7521 is certainly the much better looking model, but it's also a lot more expensive.

As far as LEGO is concerned 2021 seems to be about releasing cheaper versions of existing sets. This year's Luke Skywalker's X-Wing Fighter (75301) set was also represented a cheaper version of previous releases.

Minifigures: TIE Fighter Pilot with a blaster pistol, a Stormtrooper with a blaster and an NI-L8 Protocol Droid

There are pros and cons with the new TIE Fighter. The biggest con is that it looks a little stubby when compared to older kits. Although in all honesty if you don't have a comparison, the new model looks fine. The biggest pro is that it's really cheap and has the same functionality (firing weapons and a cockpit that opens).

It can be displayed without a stand, but you're strongly advised to pick up a Wicked Brick perspex stand which includes a base for the mini figures and a plate that details the name of the model and how many pieces it has.

The instructions, as you'd expect, are simple to follow and this set has no stickers to add (thankfully).

Overall it's a good set and at a very reasonable price (considering it's LEGO Star Wars). If you own the 2018 set then, unless you're a fanatical completeist, I see no real reason to add this new release to your collection. While the 2018 kit is better on balance, the huge drop in price means that you can't grumble too much at this great kit.

8

Darren Rea