LEGO Star Wars: Boarding The Tantive IV Set Review (75387)


The boarding of the the Tantive IV is one of the most iconic moments in the entirety of the Star Wars saga. It sets the tone for the adventure that is to come. Everything we know about the characters involved in this scene begins at this moment: Darth Vader is a terrifying villain, larger than life and willing to kill to get what he’s after; Princess Leia is bold and brave, willing to put her life on the line for the Rebellion; the Rebel Alliance is hopelessly outgunned by the Galactic Empire. The LEGO Star Wars Boarding the Tantive IV is a perfect opportunity to add this memorable scene to your collection.

Overview of the LEGO Star Wars Boarding The Tantive IV set

The LEGO Star Wars: Boarding the Tantive IV set (75387) is a medium-sized LEGO set designed for those 8 years old and older. It recreates the memorable opening scene of Star Wars: A New Hope where Darth Vader and his Stormtroopers board the Rebel ship Tantive IV in search of the stolen Death Star plans. This set includes:

  • A Detailed Diorama: The set features a detailed diorama that perfectly captures the iconic hallway of the Tantive IV. The set includes intricate detailing such as control panels, doorways, and the white-walled aesthetic familiar from the movie.
  • Minifigures: The set includes seven minifigures: Captain Antilles, two Rebel Troopers, Darth Vader, and two Imperial Stormtroopers. These characters allow you to recreate the battle between the Rebellion and the Empire. Also included in the set is a special edition Star Wars 25th anniversary minifigure of Clone Trooper Fives (complete with a display stand).
  • Interactive Features: The set is designed with interactive elements such as a “blast-open” entry door and levers to topple minifigures during battle. There’s even a clear piece that can be used to create the illusion of Darth Vader lifting someone from the ground (with his hand or the Force). This allows for a dynamic play experience and adds to the overall excitement.
  • Piece Count: The set contains 502 pieces, providing a moderate yet engaging challenge for builders of different skill levels. I’d put it along the same difficulty level as the Imperial Shuttle or the Imperial TIE Bomber.
key features & benefits
  1. Build Quality and Design: LEGO has paid close attention to the quality of the build. The finished Tantive IV is a sturdy set that doesn’t feel like it will come apart during play. The design is screen accurate, creating an authentic Star Wars experience.
  2. Iconic Characters: The inclusion of iconic Star Wars characters such as Captain Antilles and Darth Vader enhances the play experience. Having more troopers is always welcome, and including multiple troopers from both sides makes it appealing for both collectors and fans. The inclusion of Fives is a highlight, as well.
  3. Playability: With its interactive features and minifigures, the set offers endless possibilities for play and storytelling. Whether you choose to recreate scenes from the movie or invent your own narratives, this set provides hours of entertainment.
  4. Display Piece: Once completed, the set serves as an excellent display piece for any LEGO or Star Wars fan. The set is a great addition to any collection.
pros & cons

Pros:

  1. Iconic Scene: This set allows you to recreate the opening scene from Star Wars: A New Hope, bringing a beloved moment from the movie to life.
  2. Minifigure Variety: The set includes seven minifigures: Captain Antilles, Darth Vader, two Rebel Troopers, two Stormtroopers and Clone Trooper Fives. These characters provide a range of options for play and storytelling. The inclusion of Fives is a personal highlight.
  3. High-Quality Design: The finished product captures the Tantive IV’s interior, recreating the aesthetic of the movie with detailed control panels, doorways, and more. The included features make the set engaging and interactive.

Cons:

  1. Price: Like many LEGO sets, this one can be pricey, especially for a medium-sized set. It may not be within everyone’s budget.
  2. Limited Play Area: While the set offers interactive features, the overall play area is somewhat limited compared to larger sets, which might affect long-term playability.
Tips for Building & Displaying
  • Take Your Time: Enjoy the building process and take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the set.
  • Organize the Pieces: Following the instructions bag by bag can help you stay organized and make the process smoother. Don’t just dump all of the pieces into one pile.
  • Display with Pride: Once complete, consider displaying the set in a dedicated space such as a shelf or desk. Consider an LED lighting kit to make the display pop. It’s sure to be a conversation starter.

LED Light Kit Only

Final Thoughts

The LEGO Star Wars: Boarding the Tantive IV (75387) is a must-have for any LEGO and Star Wars fan. The attention to detail, inclusion of beloved characters, and interactive play features make it a standout choice. Whether you choose to build it for play or display, this set offers endless hours of fun and nostalgia. Just be sure to bring Lord Vader the passengers. He wants them alive!