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76042 UCS Helicarrier

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Comments

  • monkyby87monkyby87 Member Posts: 316
    I think people get hung up with the UCS label lately, as Lego has been trying to incorporate play features into the models more lately. So, I suppose giving it the UCS label fools some. But I still like this model a lot.
  • OdinduskOdindusk Member Posts: 763
    edited January 2015
    Sticker-free modulars, and now this. One step forward, two steps back. I really wish I didn't despise stickers. $350+ sets should simply have all printed elements, period.

    EDIT: Toward the end of the vid, he mentions that the runway tiles are printed. Unless my eyes blatantly deceive me, I see otherwise. Or maybe that's a different piece? Or just a mock for purposes of the video? I dunno.



  • ColoradoBricksColoradoBricks Member Posts: 1,659
    The set picture shows something similar, may be printed tile to finish the runway. On you pic it also shows green/yellow/red plates (reggae colors :wink:) that are not on the official pic, looks like tiles are missing.
    image
  • OdinduskOdindusk Member Posts: 763
    haha good call, I somehow didn't notice the circus of random color. Ok, spoke too soon. Will reserve full judgment for when it's released.
  • graphitegraphite Member Posts: 3,275
    I think in the video he was just talking about the 8x16 tile with runway being printed was new not that all of the runway for the set was printed. Those 2x4 tiles probably have stickers and only the 8x16's are likely printed.
  • kyrotekkyrotek Member Posts: 212
    I think it's great that Lego are producing a set but I can't see myself paying that much for it when I could spend that much on the Death Star.

    Perhaps it just seems a little underwhelming in comparison
  • hkcrazy88hkcrazy88 Member Posts: 163
    edited January 2015
    My husband and I both really like this set! It will definitely be on our "to buy" list for this year. Do I think it could have been done a little better? Maybe. But still a cool set and a definite for us! :smiley:
  • SithLord196SithLord196 Member Posts: 1,161
    Basta said:

    I do not know why they must persist using the UCS tag on these sets, I know I am in the minority & probably living in the past, but I don't want figs and play features in my UCS sets. I would much prefer the money spent on enhancing the size and exterior detail.

    As a large system looking play set it is nice. I know this type of set is more profitable for TLG but it is a shame that these sets are going to be produced more and more at the expense of what I traditionally see a UCS set as being.

    Actually I can agree with this. It's what's making me slightly hesitant about buying the Sandcrawler (and the fact they didn't include an Aunt Beru mini-figure, since they were so insistent on including mini-figures).
  • TheBigLegoskiTheBigLegoski Member Posts: 1,437
    @kyrotek
    Oooh definitely! The choice is very simple when you say choose between the Death Star or the Marvel Helicarrier. Death Star Wins by a parsec!

    I don't have that set #10188 , and yes it is also very expensive. Even more expensive than the helicarrier, but it is just so much more charming. It is a diorama bonanza, with all the different chambers rendering various scenes from the original trilogy. It appears to be designed so ingenious. It is fun to look at and also (very important for ultimately a toy) offers great play value for kids who can do extensive role-playing with all the minifigs that are also included, or adults such as myself who keep tinkering with it: rearranging minifigs; or the entire set itself.

    _________

    In my opinion the majority of models/sets build at minifig-scale will (almost) always win anyway over sets build at micro-scale. Sure the Death Star is also not really minifig scale, just as the new Star Destroyer, but somehow these models/sets just work. I bought a Star Wars advent calender last fall for the first time, and I felt really disappointed; I guess I don't care much for all those tiny micro builds of space ships, and speeders which where included in that advent set. The Helicarrier also suffers from that: how do you make a jet fighter-plane look appealing on that scale with Lego?

    Yesterday when I first saw it, I thought: 'not bad, but wasn't there a Helicarrier Lego Ideas project?' After checking that out again, even though that build is just not feasible as a set due to its size and number of bricks (6700), this (final) set just pales in comparison. Somehow it just does not look finished. The model is mircoscale, and because of that in combination with the huge amount of studs on its exterior, and the lack of tile finishing and greebling to make the surface look sleeker, just makes it look not as aesthetically pleasing as it could or should have.

    I also just had another look at My Queen Anne's Revenge #4195-1 took out the printed 'nanofig voodoo doll trophy' Lego element, and could not help but think; those nanofigs are successfully hyped up, but are those tiny figs really such a great draw and selling point for this set.

    It is interesting that this set has sparked such a wide array of opinions on Brickset
    brickset.com/article/14057/76042-the-s-h-i-e-l-d-helicarrier
    and it is absolutely not my intention to be the party pooper, and/or dissuade anyone from buying it (as if ...), but as a play set (even though I as an adult never play with any of my lego sets the way I did when I was a kid) it does not seem that enticing, nor as a display model, and has an outrageous price tag of probably €350 in The Netherlands. My infatuation for this set wasn't that strong, and after some consideration has fully diminished. So I will pass, and also think if/when I will be spending that amount of money at once on Lego I rather buy three modular sets, or get the Tumbler and the Mini, or chuck down a little more cash and get a Death Star, a marvellous monstrosity that surprisingly only takes up 41 cm by 42 cm of space.

    ps.
    being the huge LOTR Lego fan that I am, I hope Lego will develop and take this IDEA into production: Minas Tirith FTW!
    https://ideas.lego.com/projects/36275
    That is a must have for me! if/when TLG releases that set.
    https://flickr.com/photos/nujumetru/sets/72157630848562300/
    slyreptilejohnhenzCapnRex101AdeelZubairVindic8edRainstorm26
  • slyreptileslyreptile Member Posts: 15
    TheBigLegoski said:


    ps.
    being the huge LOTR Lego fan that I am, I hope Lego will develop and take this IDEA into production: Minas Tirith FTW!
    https://ideas.lego.com/projects/36275
    That is a must have for me! if/when TLG releases that set.
    https://flickr.com/photos/nujumetru/sets/72157630848562300/


    Agreed with just about everything you said about the helicarrier/death star/modulars. But I had to add a HUGE +1 on this!!!
    TheBigLegoski
  • TheBigLegoskiTheBigLegoski Member Posts: 1,437
    ^ Thank you, you are too kind.
  • AdeelZubairAdeelZubair Member Posts: 2,710
    edited January 2015
    When I saw this set for the first time on the March store calender I thought this was 'meh' Now that official pictures and a designer video have been released I can say I does look really great but something about it still doesn't look right...Marcos Bessa has done an impressive job with this largest set to date. This will be an iconic and popular LEGO set. Is the first LEGO D2C (Direct to Consumer) Marvel set, and will be loved amongst Marvel fans.

    This set contains a unique display stand like the one included with The Dark Knight Tumbler but with an additional S.H.I.E.L.D. logo which is brick built. The display stand holds five Minifigures: Captain America (with mask), Nick Fury, Maria Hill, Hawkeye and Black Widow. The biggest problem with the Minifigures is that we don't get Coulson or Bruce Banner. We should have Hawkeye and Black Widow replaced with Coulson and Banner beause those two are already in the Avengers: Age of Ultron sets. I don't see what other sets Banner and Coulson could fit into besides this set.
    I have a feeling they want us to spend a certain amount at the LEGO Store, purchase a Marvel video game or get them with a Marvel Blu-Ray.

    This set contains Minifigure Trophy's of Iron Man, Captain America, Hawkeye, Nick Fury and eight Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. This new concept has people with various opinions: Some say they are a cheap replacement for actual Minifigures, they bring to life the scale of the Helicarreir and others says they are a cool concept. I like them but they don't do much for me, I'd rather have them displayed in the interior than the exterior. This set also has several different micro builds to set the scene and scale such as 3x Quinjet's, 3 x planes, 2x forklifts, 4 x barriers and other similar vehicles.

    Marcos mentions that the 8x16 tiles are printed with a road design for your own micro scale creations.

    The main features we don't know until we see the designer video is that you can turn all four engines and the same time with a simple crank of a lever at the back of the model. You can also add LEGO Power Functions and lights to make it more authentic. To be honest I think if they included the Power Functions and lights I would be happy with the price of £269.99.

    One think I realised is that having several colours such as Black, Dark Stone Grey and Medium Stone Grey, Bright Yellow and Transparent Light Blue on the Helicarrier is that it makes it all colourful and bright. I think the profile of the Super Star Destroyer was spectacular and amazing was because the colour scheme of the having Medium Stone Grey as the primary colour and mixing it with the Dark Stone Grey in center made the model very clean. What I'm trying to say is the colours for the Helicarrier should have just been the two shades of grey but Medium Stone Grey as the primary colour. I'm not sure about the Black road with a Bright Yellow S.H.I.E.L.D. logo and the Transparent Light Blue for the engine area.

    This set isn't just about small stuff this set measures 31 inches in length, I think puts it behind the original UCS Imperial Star Destroyer and the recent Super Star Destroyer as the longest LEGO model. I wonder if any kid or adult has any space for this...

    Overall this set it is great. It has it's flaws like the colour variation. The model is an impressive recreation and would make a great gift for any adult or Marvel fan.
    kez
  • RennyRenny Member Posts: 1,145
    Wow, that's cold ;)
  • thehornedratthehornedrat Member Posts: 87
    edited January 2015
    Basta said:

    I do not know why they must persist using the UCS tag on these sets, I know I am in the minority & probably living in the past, but I don't want figs and play features in my UCS sets. I would much prefer the money spent on enhancing the size and exterior detail.

    As a large system looking play set it is nice. I know this type of set is more profitable for TLG but it is a shame that these sets are going to be produced more and more at the expense of what I traditionally see a UCS set as being.

    Note LEGO isn't calling this 'UCS'. There is no official seal designating this as a UCS. Why AFOLS persist, I have no idea. This is pretty much a displayset akin to 10221 SSD or 10188 DS, which are UCS. A nonsensical argument is that if it comes with a plaque, that makes it UCS, but even the Tumbler isn't UCS. I dunno, whatever, if it makes the set all the more desirable by self deluding AFOLS, no harm to me!
    Drmnez
  • BrickDancerBrickDancer Member Posts: 3,639
    ^10188 Deathstar is not UCS.
  • SithLord196SithLord196 Member Posts: 1,161
    Actually I'm not entirely certain that 10221 is UCS either. I don't remember seeing that designation on the box anywhere.
  • BrickDancerBrickDancer Member Posts: 3,639
    edited January 2015
    Honestly, the box designation approach is not correct for UCS determination. The best indicator is still the "Plaque". As many of the confirmed SW UCS sets do not have Ultimate Collector Series (or Editions) showing on the box.

    The confirmed UCS sets that do not adhere to the Plaque rule have been the Sandcrawler #75059 and the two character builds of Yoda #7194 and Darth Maul #10018. Even then for these two, it was semi-accepted that the "Lego 2x2" brick stands in for the Plaque depending on one's opinion.

    Going the other way around, we have 2 sets with Plaques that weren't properly deemed UCS as their theme of Creator (Expert or Advanced) doesn't allow for it. Which are VW Beetle #10187 and Boeing Dreamliner #10177.

    Specific to Superheros line, the Batmobile #7784 had UCS designation on the box and with Plaque. The Tumbler #76023 does not have UCS on the box but does have the Plaque and is definitely regarded as a UCS set by the public (curious to know why you think the Tumbler is not a UCS?). So the Helicarrier at least has the Plaque going for it regardless of if the box designates it as such.

    I understand that it may seem nonsensical to care about such arbitrary designations, especially if you don't collect them. But it doesn't change the fact that 'UCS' is a real thing for those that do. It's not our fault that TLG is consistently inconsistent =)
    timinchicagodougts
  • graphitegraphite Member Posts: 3,275
    Think you meant without Plaque for #7784.
    BrickDancer
  • thehornedratthehornedrat Member Posts: 87
    edited January 2015
    Heck yes, I totally agree, BrickDancer. It is confuzzling, we all use our own definitions, but we ultimately buy them to collect and display them anyway. I don't mean any offense. Semantics :(

  • BrickDancerBrickDancer Member Posts: 3,639
    ^I totally get you and no offense was taken at all, hence the =) that fixes everything

  • LegoTTLegoTT Member Posts: 487
    In all reality, TLG probably has a special committee/group that has to be involved with a project to be branded as a 'UCS' set. Maybe they're just not involved with every set that has over 1,500 pieces and looks awesome.

    I have no clue. I just know what it's like to work for a large organization and that honestly seems realistic...
  • epyon396epyon396 Member Posts: 268
    ^ Shhh. Don't speak of the secret UCS Committee.
    Do you want to be black-bagged and disappear?
    LegoTTjohnhenzchuckpPitfall69AdeelZubaircarlqRonyar
  • BastaBasta Member Posts: 1,259
    edited January 2015
    To me the fact that it has a plaque suggests that it is suppose to be an UCS set, but being as Lego have been so inconsistent with the "UCS" label it really doesn't mater that much.

    My comments previous are less so about this actual set, and more about the direction TLG have taken the UCS line. The first sets I purchased as an adult way back in the early 2000's were #7181 TIE Interceptor, #7191 X-wing Fighter & #7194 Yoda, apart from R2-D2 (which I'll give a pass), there is no minifigures in sight and no play features. They are just great, detailed (For Lego) display pieces, this was mostly true up until they decide to dump a bunch of figs in with the MF in 2007 (The MF was still awesome, but probably had an extra $30-$50 added for the figs).

    I know that minifigures get lots of love from kids and AFOL's alike and I get why they are there, but it is unfortunate that as far as the UCS line goes from now on we will almost always get some little play feature and at least one fig. The main issue I have with this is that the designs may well be compromised as they need to work in a play feature and minifigures, so the main part of the set will be smaller and the overall set cost will be more.

    Vindic8edtiminchicagodougts
  • ChubblesChubbles Member Posts: 459
    Double vip gets you like 35 bucks back essentially right off the bat so that helps
  • thehornedratthehornedrat Member Posts: 87
    Don't mean to change the subject about UCS discussion, for a bit, but I was looking over at Hot Toys, I recall they showed off a Helicarrier model too, but this was in July 2014, so far it hasn't been released. Am I mistaken? Sold out? Anyone knows what happened to it? Google is unhelpful.
  • BrickDancerBrickDancer Member Posts: 3,639
    ^^^I'm mixed about the UCS minfigure direction, slightly leaning towards the old ways of no figs with full focus on the model. Reason is the figs themselves being included sometimes aren't exclusive to that UCS set. Such as SSD (Bossk, Vader), MF (the whole crew), Helicarrier (Widow, Hawkeye, and most of Cap aside from head).

    It doesn't bother me about the extra cost that is tagged on due to the figs. But it does bother me when the brick count or scale is compromised as a result of it. However, this aspect is more affected by the new direction of play features than it is the figs. Which the jury is still out for me as to whether its an improvement or detraction from historical UCS.
  • DrmnezDrmnez Member Posts: 855
    edited January 2015
    Wait... According to a UCS poster Lego put out a few years ago, foes that squash the argument on what sets are UCS. At least for what sets are on the poster.
    Minus the Yoda and first x wing.
  • ryjayryjay Member Posts: 1,004
    I'll pass...I really have no idea what it is. I mean, I know it is part of Marvel and Capt. America, but other then that I have no clue as to what it is or why I would want it, especially at $350.
  • Vindic8edVindic8ed Member Posts: 206
    edited January 2015
    ryjay said:

    I'll pass...I really have no idea what it is. I mean, I know it is part of Marvel and Capt. America, but other then that I have no clue as to what it is or why I would want it, especially at $350.

    https://www.google.com/search?q=helicarrier&espv=2&biw=1280&bih=622&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=MVPMVOK2IcylyAT22IKwCw&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ

    This is pretty sweet (though not Lego):
    http://izismile.com/2012/08/24/cool_miniature_replica_of_the_avengers_shield_helicarrier.html
    Galactus
  • CCCCCC Member Posts: 20,556
    I'm guessing the (official) UCS tag doesn't really help sell sets so much. So Lego doesn't bother with it on sets like this. It is only marketing, much like "whiter whites" on washing powder. Remember there have been complaints about Lego releasing updated models of old UCS sets, complaints being how can both be UCS. Maybe they think they will do another helicarrier in 10 years time, and not calling this UCS will stop the future pedantic whining about how both can be the ultimate version.
    TheBigLegoskipharmjod
  • TheLoneTensorTheLoneTensor Member Posts: 3,937
    I am surprised to see that the way that the computer screens (1x1 tiles) are attached is considered a legal connection.
    matticus_bricks
  • AdeelZubairAdeelZubair Member Posts: 2,710
    TheLoneTensor said:

    I am surprised to see that the way that the computer screens (1x1 tiles) are attached is considered a legal connection.

    @TheLoneTensor " It's more often used when we clip printed tiles onto a minifigure hand though, and we avoid it in sets for younger kits because of its "trickiness"..."

    - Marcos Bessa
  • monkyby87monkyby87 Member Posts: 316
    ryjay said:

    I'll pass...I really have no idea what it is. I mean, I know it is part of Marvel and Capt. America, but other then that I have no clue as to what it is or why I would want it, especially at $350.

    I'm guessing you haven't seen any Marvel movies then...and if so no Marvel set must be appealing to you.
  • CapnRex101CapnRex101 Administrator Posts: 2,364
    @TheLoneTensor - The same technique is used in the cockpit display of the Creator Blue Power Jet, so it would seem the technique is now a permanent feature of LEGO design.
  • ryjayryjay Member Posts: 1,004
    monkyby87 said:

    ryjay said:

    I'll pass...I really have no idea what it is. I mean, I know it is part of Marvel and Capt. America, but other then that I have no clue as to what it is or why I would want it, especially at $350.

    I'm guessing you haven't seen any Marvel movies then...and if so no Marvel set must be appealing to you.
    I've seen some, but I asked my kids 15, 15, & 9....do you know this, they all said "no". And I'm betting most people who would ever see it in my house would say "what is that?" Not that I'm hanging the Death Star in my house either, but I'm pretty sure most would know that as from Star Wars.

    And your right, We haven't bought any marvel set.....a few DC ones, but not marvel
  • LegoTTLegoTT Member Posts: 487
    ryjay said:

    monkyby87 said:

    ryjay said:

    I'll pass...I really have no idea what it is. I mean, I know it is part of Marvel and Capt. America, but other then that I have no clue as to what it is or why I would want it, especially at $350.

    I'm guessing you haven't seen any Marvel movies then...and if so no Marvel set must be appealing to you.
    I've seen some, but I asked my kids 15, 15, & 9....do you know this, they all said "no". And I'm betting most people who would ever see it in my house would say "what is that?" Not that I'm hanging the Death Star in my house either, but I'm pretty sure most would know that as from Star Wars.

    And your right, We haven't bought any marvel set.....a few DC ones, but not marvel
    Yeah, it'll be interesting to see how this set does. It's just so expensive...as a model, it looks 'ok'. As a toy, it seems to plays 'ok'. Neither of those constitute $350. I look forward to the reviews. If it goes on sale for sub $300- I'd be in.
  • monkyby87monkyby87 Member Posts: 316
    It does seem less mainstream than other equally expensive sets, and probably caters to a smaller crowd, not only in popularity but in price. We'll see...I still like the set.
  • WallaceWallace Member Posts: 134
    As nice as this is, I don't see many of these being bought as presents for kids. I'm not sure I see that many being sold full stop. I don't think this set has the same appeal as say 10188, which given its piece count and price point, I'd at least think it's aimed at a market hoping to be as big as that of SW. I don't see this set being around in another 6 years to buy on S@H.
  • DrmnezDrmnez Member Posts: 855
    Interesting chart
    Brickarmorchuckpcarlqhkcrazy88
  • ryjayryjay Member Posts: 1,004
    ^ That is interesting.....so we can also assume that licensing is about $.03-.05 a brick?
    Drmnez
  • epyon396epyon396 Member Posts: 268
    Kind of a stupid question, but was this ever confirmed to be the February 17th release?
    None of the press releases or information that I've seen has any sort of date.

    I may just be blind and/or stupid.
  • binaryeyebinaryeye Member Posts: 1,831
    ryjay said:

    ^ That is interesting.....so we can also assume that licensing is about $.03-.05 a brick?

    No. For example:
    #75086 Battle Droid Troop Carrier: $0.07 per piece
    #75090 Ezra's Speeder Bike: $0.08 per piece
    #70129 Lavertus' Twin Blade: $0.11 per piece
    #70145 Maula's Ice Mammoth Stomper: $0.15 per piece

    Consider the ratio of price to box weight for those sets shown in the infographic:
    DO: 6.10 cents per gram
    Tumbler: 5.81 cents per gram
    Slave I: 6.32 cents per gram
    Triple-E: 5.36 cents per gram
    SSD: 5.74 cents per gram
  • monkyby87monkyby87 Member Posts: 316
    edited February 2015
    epyon396 said:

    Kind of a stupid question, but was this ever confirmed to be the February 17th release?
    None of the press releases or information that I've seen has any sort of date.

    I may just be blind and/or stupid.

    Well I think the Lego Shop calendar showed it, unless I'm mistaken.
  • DrmnezDrmnez Member Posts: 855
    The rumor was for an early release for VIP members in feb
  • Ray1204Ray1204 Member Posts: 70
    Feb 17th is the release date for VIP but March is the offical release to public.
  • BooTheMightyHamsterBooTheMightyHamster Member Posts: 1,559
    So is this still due for a VIP release tomorrow? I haven't heard a peep out of Lego - no email etc.
  • iBartiBart Member Posts: 121
    On S@H release date is Feb. 19th.
  • monkey_roomonkey_roo Member Posts: 1,411
    Was in the Wesdtfield shop on Saturday and they were grearing up for it on the 19th, the lass I was chatting to said the model was all built out the back and ready to be put on display this week.
  • AdeelZubairAdeelZubair Member Posts: 2,710
    I'm going to Stratford this evening to grab some Exo-Suits, hopefully they have it on display!
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