LEGO Star Wars 75347 TIE Bomber Building Toy review
Product description
What this is
A buildable LEGO Star Wars model centred on a TIE Bomber, aimed at fans aged 9 and over. It combines brick-by-brick construction with familiar Star Wars scenes, offering a hands-on way to revisit classic battles from The Empire Strikes Back.
What’s included
The set arrives with three minifigures: Darth Vader with a lightsaber, Vice Admiral Sloane, and a TIE Bomber Pilot, plus a Gonk droid figure. The model features an openable cockpit, two stud shooters, and a warhead bay that can drop torpedoes (six torpedoes supplied). A transport cart provides a practical backdrop for moving torpedoes to the bomber and can carry a minifigure.
What stands out in use
On the surface, the play pattern is straightforward: assemble the bomber, set up the figures, then recreate space combat or pause for storytelling moments. The torpedo-drops and the moving cart add a touch of interactive play that goes beyond a static display. The digital Builder app is available as a guided building companion, which can help younger builders stay on track and feel a sense of progression.
Build quality and design notes
As with many LEGO Star Wars sets, the design leans into recognisable shapes and iconic features. On paper, the bomber reflects the starfighter vibe with a compact cockpit and a winged silhouette. The inclusion of three minifigures gives a bit more storytelling potential than typical two-figure sets. It’s worth noting that the build may be more fulfilling for fans who enjoy assembling and then playing out scenes rather than purely display value.
Who it’s for
This set targets fans of Star Wars and LEGO who enjoy a slightly longer build and a few interactive features. It could appeal to older children and adult collectors who value the mix of nostalgia and hands-on construction. If you prioritise a quiet, creative build over rapid play, this could fit well in a mid-range LEGO collection.
When it makes sense to buy
If you’re shopping for a themed gift for a 9+ year old who enjoys Star Wars lore and the tactile reward of building, this kit offers more than a basic model by adding figures and a small playset around the bomber. It may suit someone who wants a manageable but engaging project that’s not as intricate as larger Star Wars sets.
When it might not be the best choice
If your aim is a straightforward display piece with a lot of complexity, this kit could feel light in comparison to bigger builds. If the recipient loves pure display value over play features, you might look for a set with less emphasis on play functions and more on detailing. Also, for younger builders or those new to LEGO, the complexity of the build might demand more time and patience than a simpler starter set.
What to check before buying
Consider whether the buyer is aligned with the Star Wars theme and appreciates the included minifigures. Check that the included torpedoes align with the play patterns you expect and that the open cockpit and cart functions suit your storytelling ideas. If you value digital building guidance, the Builder app could enhance the experience, but it’s optional.
How it compares to other approaches
If you’re deciding between a buildable Star Wars vehicle and a quick-play toy, this set leans toward a balanced middle ground: more engaging build time and set-piece play than a pure minifigure collection, but less complexity than the largest, detailing-focused sets. It’s a sensible pick for fans who want a solid build milestone without stepping into the higher-end price bracket.
Practical usage example
Imagine a rainy afternoon: a young builder follows the digital guide to assemble the bomber, then lines up Vader, Sloane and the pilot to enact a quick skirmish. The cart carrying torpedoes adds a little theatre as you slide pieces into position and stage a mock capture or drop sequence—concrete, tactile fun that stretches imagination beyond a simple display.
FAQ
- Does it include enough minifigures for storytelling? Yes, you get three minifigures plus a Gonk droid to boost scene-building.
- Is the build suitable for a 9-year-old? The set targets 9+, but the complexity could require assistance or a patient mindset for younger builders.
- Does the set rely on the LEGO Builder app? The app is offered as an optional digital guide, you don’t need it to complete the build, but it can enhance the experience.
Final considerations before purchase
If you value a balanced mix of build-time engagement and play potential, and you’re buying for a Star Wars fan who enjoys a taxable but not overwhelming set, this kit is worth considering. It may not be the strongest choice if you’re after high visual fidelity or maximum display value in a single piece, but it delivers a capable, story-forward build with a satisfying end result.