Introduction
LEGO is commemorating the 25th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace with five sets during 2024. The first set to release is the 30680 AAT polybag.
The initial reaction of this polybag is that it is easily the most polished and accurate Armored Assault Tank build to date. It is arguably the best non-minifigure polybag of all time.
Details
Set Name: AAT
Item Number: 30680
Piece Count: 75
Price: US $4.99
Release Date: 01/01/2024
Build
With only 75 pieces, the build is straight forward as most polybags are. The instructions are simple. They come on both sides of a single folded sheet of paper.
Despite being so small, LEGO has put a lot of detail in the AAT by making the most of their piece choice. The base of the AAT is made up of tiled and curved pieces. The front hatch is represented with a clip and a round tile stud. The side cannons are made with nozzle pieces that rotate up and down. On the bottom on the build there are four rounded bottom boat studs that allow it to glide on smooth surfaces.
The big draw is the the AAT's heavy gun that is attached to a clip and sits on a turn table piece. This allows the gun to move a full 360 degrees and move up and down. This provides a wide arrange of display stances to make the AAT look like it's picking out its next target. The top hatch is made with a single dish piece that really encapsulates what it should like. In previous AAT polybags the top hatch did not accurately portray a proper design. It is great to see how LEGO has improved the design to make it faithful to its source material.
Ratings
Build (5): It cannot be understated how impressive the design of this AAT is despite its small size. It's perfectly tiled with only a couple exposed studs. While most polybags are limited, the AAT has lots of moving parts. The full 360 degrees swiveling heavy gun, adjustable side guns, moveable front hatch, and glide ability are a ton of features for a polybag set.
Value (5): $5 are the standard for polybags at this time. It really feels like you're getting a solid display piece that doesn't feel cheap. It's an appropriate scale and has plenty of detail that justifies the price.
Accuracy (5): This is hands down the most accurate AAT polybag and it's not even close. There can be a few nitpicks about the turret scale and the sizes between the front and top hatches. However, it does not detract from how recognizable it is. Any fan who walks in and sees the AAT will immediately identify the vehicle and not even notice the subtleties.
Playability (4): With only 75 pieces. this set is perfect for younger fans to build on their own. The compact size and the AAT's features make it a good traveling companion for kids who want to bring a toy from home. Even if its on display on a desk, the AAT is a tempting distraction or fidget for any office worker. The only drawback is that younger fans may prefer having a minifigure and flick fire missiles or stud shooters that a microfighter would provide.
Collectability (4.5): The 30680 AAT is the first of five sets for The Phantom Menace's 25th anniversary. This is a must buy for fans of Episode I and the prequel trilogy. Even the casual LEGO Star Wars fan can appreciate how good this set is. The AAT is the perfect size to add to anyone's collection.
Verdict
4.7/5 The best vehicle polybag to date
Overall, it is an enjoyable build and only takes a few minutes to make. The size and detail of the polybag makes it a must buy for fans of the iconic AAT. It's eye-catching, easily recognizable, and does not sacrifice quality for its size. The 30680 AAT will look great displayed on anyone's desk or shelf.
I really enjoyed moving the AAT's cannons around to try out different poses. It works sitting static in its default position and tilting the heavy turret up to the side like it's about fire on the Gungan army.
Unlike the previous AAT polybags that look dated, the 30680 AAT is near perfection. I find it hard to picture it getting better than this. This AAT is a worthy set to celebrate the 25th year of The Phantom Menace.
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