Review: 75298 AT-AT vs. Tauntaun Microfighters
Posted by CapnRex101,
LEGO expanded the superb Microfighters range to encompass animals recently, including 75298 AT-AT vs. Tauntaun Microfighters which contains an appealing Tauntaun. This model achieves the perfect balance between outstanding detail and standard Microfighter proportions.
The accompanying AT-AT appears impressive as well, succeeding 75075 AT-AT Microfighter which became available during 2015. This design features substantially more detail than its predecessor and excludes the prominent flick-fire missiles which appeared previously. An exclusive Luke Skywalker minifigure is also provided.
Minifigures
LEGO has produced more sets focused upon Hoth than any other Star Wars planets, hence numerous accordant Luke Skywalker minifigures have become available. Nevertheless, the latest example is unique, featuring more accurate printing than previous minifigures. The dark tan helmet and white goggles are familiar though, matching recent Hoth Rebel Troopers.
However, the double-sided head underneath is new. Unlike previous versions, this minifigure incorporates Luke's white hood which looks fantastic and the flesh skin tone appears realistic too. Moreover, the torso and legs have each been updated so display superb detail, including the correct rank indicator with an accurate communication device. The printed cross-hatching across the legs seems equally authentic.
Naturally, an AT-AT Driver accompanies the AT-AT Microfighter and looks marvellous. This helmet component features intricate decoration which corresponds with the source material, displaying dark red Imperial symbols around the central crest. Unfortunately, an obvious gap appears on the reverse, conspicuously revealing part of the head underneath.
This head is exceptionally common but I appreciate LEGO's continued aversion to using the standard Clone Trooper element that has appeared before. The sand blue uniform integrates appealing detail too, especially around the life-support packs and hoses. Dual-moulded boots would enhance the AT-AT Driver though so potential for improvement undoubtedly remains.
Both minifigures are equipped with stud shooters, replacing the weapons which are frequently mounted on Microfighters. Luke's lightsaber and two pairs of Macrobinoculars are provided as well, appearing in white and dark bluish grey. These varied accessories are certainly welcome, although I think a standard blaster pistol should also have been included.
The Completed Model
Microfighters traditionally feature exaggerated proportions, although such exaggeration has been relatively subtle on past models depicting animals. However, this example seems fairly consistent with the larger selection, shortening the Tauntaun's legs while broadening its body when compared with the original creatures. Nevertheless, the Tauntaun remains immediately recognisable and captures various authentic features.
These are particularly apparent around the head, where the Tauntaun's distinctive horns are situated beside the ears. This curled component was created for the original LEGO Tauntaun during 2009 so looks brilliant. Moreover, the dark bluish grey reins have been integrated quite nicely and the printed eyes are perfect. The snout shaping seems slightly awkward though, in my opinion.
Furthermore, the angular edges around the body could potentially have been improved, even though integrating more curved slopes might have been difficult at this scale. The articulated arms are nice though and I love the enormous feet that definitely appear consistent with the Microfighters style. The white elements across the Tauntaun's chest look marvellous as well, along with the distinct tan claws.
The legs are not articulated but the tail is connected using a ball joint which provides a good range of motion. Additionally, the reddish brown saddle compares favourably with the movie, standing out against the light bluish grey fur and including clips for accessories on each side. The rolled fabric behind the saddle seems equally accurate but the minifigure cannot actually grip the reins without really stretching them, unfortunately.
The charming AT-AT shares some significant similarities with 75075 AT-AT Microfighter, most notably including their legs which are almost completely identical! However, the body shaping and the head have undergone dramatic changes and these both represent an improvement in my opinion, capturing the appearance of these menacing machines while adhering to the style associated with Microfighters.
I am impressed with the head section in particular. The printed viewport element returns from 40333 Battle of Hoth - 20th Anniversary Edition and looks perfect here, despite offering more detail than most Microfighters. The surrounding laser cannons are outstanding too and these weapons can rotate, as usual. Moreover, the entire cockpit is mounted on a ball joint which is effective for displaying the AT-AT.
The articulated legs are also reasonably versatile, featuring hip and ankle joints. Creating an authentic walking pose is accordingly easy and the lightweight design ensures that not every footpad needs to be planted on the ground, as demonstrated below. The angular armour that appears between the hip joints is fantastic, further improving upon the last Microfighter which eschewed such intricate shaping.
Another noteworthy difference between this Microfighter and 75075 AT-AT Microfighter is the space cockpit, which is integrated closely with the body. The previous model featured a basic perch for its minifigure while this version includes a proper seat and printed console. The only area in which the 2015 design remains superior is the back, where the rounded fuel tank was visible. That has now been replaced with a simple 1x2 grille tile instead.
Overall
Whereas the majority of Microfighter twin packs have contained one outstanding model and another which is less appealing, 75298 AT-AT vs. Tauntaun Microfighters provides two lovely creations! The new AT-AT features many improvements when compared with its predecessor and the accompanying Tauntaun is delightful, integrating recognisable features and matching other Microfighters in style.
The previous animal-based Microfighters have lacked that distinctive style, although both the Dewback and Bantha were enjoyable. Additionally, the exclusive Luke Skywalker minifigure is brilliant and the AT-AT Driver is also welcome. The price of £17.99 or $19.99 seems somewhat expensive based upon the small size of these models, although fans of the Microfighters range should enjoy them.
This set was provided for review by The LEGO Group but the review represents an expression of my own opinions.
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36 comments on this article
Are these the first microfighters with no projectile launchers on them? That feels so... wrong
I dislike how the double sided head pokes out below the helmet.
Stud shooters. *sadface*
Worth it for the Luke
https://brickset.com/sets/75228-1/Escape-Pod-vs-Dewback-Microfighters I don’t think this has any
The only truly desirable set of SW for March that doesn’t need extensive modding.
@BulbaNerd4000 said:
"Are these the first microfighters with no projectile launchers on them? That feels so... wrong"
This is the second one to not have any projectiles on the actual models. @nerdgirl9 has the correct set
@nerdgirl9 said:
"https://brickset.com/sets/75228-1/Escape-Pod-vs-Dewback-Microfighters I don’t think this has any"
Totally forgot, but those ones make sense to not have any. It's weird there are none here
Same as the Bantha set I need to get this for the creature and Luke can pass as a regular trooper.
I don't hate this and I'm loving the inexpensive Luke.
Every time I think Microfighters is done, they pull me back in. OK, so now we just need a MF Slave-1 and Razor Crest....
Its been so long since we got a full sized Tauntaun this would actually make a great addition to my Rebel diorama, since I lack any other Tauntaun as of now. I like these Microfighter sets with animals, still need to go and pick up the one with the Tusken Raider and a Bantha.
I really like the model designs on both of these and the figures are great. However, the exposing gap on the back of the helmets is terrible. Obviously the heads can't tilt down so there's no point of doing that.
Also, stud shooters use more ABS plastic and are far less desirable than the old Star Wars blasters and pistols. I hate stud shooters for minifigs...
A brick-built Tauntaun could always be worse. LLCA53-1 (https://brickset.com/sets/LLCA53-1/Han-Solo-on-his-Tauntaun)
Unironically the best set of the March Wave
I want this, but not at full price.
I'm a sucker for these brick-built creatures. I'll pick this up (hopefully on sale) for the tauntaun / Luke and parts-pack the rest
I really love the Microfighters with buildable creatures (sadly missed the first one). 20 Eur is a bit steep, but I'm sure these will be down a bit in no time.
Most important question - can you fit the Luke minifig in the stomach cavity of the tauntaun?
Is that the same AT-AT driver from 2014? cause it sure looks like it.
good set, but I was hoping for more monkie kid reviews, especially 80022.
But I'm sure others enjoy the variety, and it's probably the right choice to switch it up.
Thanks cap'n, and I hope everyone has a great day!
Aside from the nasty stud shooters these are A+ adorable sets.
@legoninjago69 said:
"Is that the same AT-AT driver from 2014? cause it sure looks like it.
good set, but I was hoping for more monkie kid reviews, especially 80022 .
But I'm sure others enjoy the variety, and it's probably the right choice to switch it up.
Thanks cap'n, and I hope everyone has a great day!"
The printing on every component of the AT-AT Driver has actually been updated since 2014. For instance, the ejection harness across the torso and legs now features improved texture.
More reviews from Monkie Kid, NINJAGO, Marvel and Creator are incoming!
@BulbaNerd4000 said:
"Are these the first microfighters with no projectile launchers on them? That feels so... wrong"
but it looks so good
Nice job with the cover image. I am from southwest Florida, USA, so I am never able to take any realistic Hoth pictures since there is virtually no snow!
However, give me Yoda's hut and you will think that it really is on Dagobah!
Might have to get 2 or 3 of these, the Taun taun looks so good :)
@Meowzap77:
AT-AT Driver: Do you feel a draft?
Luke: Little bit...
@Romans122:
Just leave your freezer door cracked open on a really humid day, and you'll be set!
That flesh printing on Luke's head looks really good. Specifically because flesh on other colors usually looks terrible. Batman for example
I have always hated micro scale star wars vehicles but they always came with useful parts. This Tauntaun is cute though.
Ironically this Tauntaun microfighter is actually almost match the scale of a minfig lol
I friggin love these animal microfighters. I hadn't even seen this one was being released. I shall add it to my collection. The tauntaun and the ATAT look adorable! And I never thought I would ever say that about a deathmachine. XD
@harveypumpkins:
It’s only a problem when they print on dark colors. Luke’s head is printed on white. All print is optimized for white parts, so of course it looks great. On dark colors, if they printed a white base layer before adding the intended print, it would look much better.
That is a fantastic Luke! This is a definite buy as the Tauntaun and AT-AT are really good. I am a fan of the brick built animals, the Bantha was superb.
I really like these, haven't missed a microfighter yet and this is a great addition.
A great improvement on previous micro models especially for the Tauntan and AT-AT's head. But similar to the $10 Han Solo with Millennium Falcon 75295 , I would prefer if they sold the Tauntaun and the AT-AT separately at $10 each to make the purchase not seem so expensive for kids.
@EDHS1989 said:
"Worth it for the Luke"
ABSOLUTELY agree with you!!
@ResIpsaLoquitur said:
"I don't hate this and I'm loving the inexpensive Luke.
Every time I think Microfighters is done, they pull me back in. OK, so now we just need a MF Slave-1 and Razor Crest...."
Good picks...but I’d also like a Kessel Run Falcon too! Can include LT or another Young Lando.
horns and reigns! So many tauntauns from bulk buys end up missing a horn or the reigns. Can finally fix that problem.