If you’re a Star Wars fan and a LEGO enthusiast like me, you’re always on the lookout for the next exciting set to add to your collection. The LEGO TIE Bomber set, with the set number 75347, caught my eye recently, and I couldn’t resist giving it a go. With 625 pieces and a price tag of £59.99 / 69,99 € / $64.99 US / $84.99 CAD, this set promises to be a fun build with a classic Star Wars touch. In this review, I’ll break down my experience with the TIE Bomber, focusing on instructions, build techniques, overall design, and the final product.

Instructions

The instruction manual for the LEGO TIE Bomber is clear and easy to follow. Each step is well-documented, making it accessible even for younger builders or those new to LEGO sets. However, I found the lack of numbered bags a bit inconvenient, as it required sorting through a large pile of pieces at the beginning. But once past that initial hurdle, the building process was smooth sailing.

Build Techniques

What I particularly enjoyed about this set were the techniques used to create the two cylinders for the hull of the TIE Bomber. It was both challenging and rewarding, showcasing the precision and ingenuity that goes into LEGO design. Additionally, the simple yet effective three-piece technique used to create the torpedoes the TIE Bomber drops added a nice touch to the set. It’s these small details that make LEGO sets so enjoyable to build.

Overall Design

The overall design of the TIE Bomber is faithful to its Star Wars counterpart. The attention to detail is impressive, and the set captures the essence of the iconic spacecraft. However, one aspect I found a bit lacking was the wings. Due to their symmetrical design, all six portions of the wings are very similar in build, making it feel a tad repetitive. A bit more variety in this section could have enhanced the building experience.

Final Product

Once completed, the TIE Bomber looks fantastic on display. It’s a great addition to a Star Wars-themed collection, especially if you’re aiming to recreate the fleet of play-scale Star Wars ships. However, when compared to some of the more classic ships in the LEGO Star Wars lineup, the TIE Bomber falls slightly short in terms of uniqueness and excitement. That said, it’s still a solid choice for fans and collectors alike.

Favorite Parts

Among the standout features of this set are the techniques used to craft the cylindrical hulls, which add complexity and authenticity to the build. Additionally, the fact that all pieces with artwork were printed rather than relying on stickers is a welcome detail. The set retains its quality over time without the worry of peeling or fading stickers.

Disliked

My main gripe with the TIE Bomber set is the repetitive nature of building the symmetrical wings. While it’s true to the source material, it can feel monotonous after a while. A little more diversity in the wing construction process would have improved the overall building experience.

In conclusion, the LEGO TIE Bomber set is a commendable choice for Star Wars and LEGO enthusiasts looking to expand their collection. It offers a satisfying building experience with some excellent techniques and attention to detail. However, it might not stand out as much as some of the more iconic ships in the Star Wars universe. If you’re looking to complete your Star Wars fleet, this set is a solid addition, but it may not be the first choice for those seeking the most classic Star Wars LEGO experience.