Review: 75377 Invisible Hand
Posted by CapnRex101,
The newly-titled Starship Collection provides fantastic potential, as this series can seemingly be adapted for many vehicle types and subjects missing from the LEGO Star Wars range before now. 75377 Invisible Hand neatly encapsulates these qualities.
I am delighted to see General Grievous' famed flagship finally portrayed in LEGO form and this model of the Providence-class Dreadnought looks excellent, thanks in part to its varied colours, which make a nice change from previous midi-scale designs. Also, this set is more affordable than others in the series, so should have every advantage!
Summary
75377 Invisible Hand, 557 pieces.
£46.99 / $49.99 / €52.99 | 8.4p/9.0c/9.5c per piece.
Buy at LEGO.com »
A LEGO rendition of the Invisible Hand was long overdue and this model impresses
- Brilliant to see the Invisible Hand in LEGO, finally!
- Accurate shape and details
- Neat breaking function
- Details hidden inside
- A bit expensive, for its size
The set was provided for review by LEGO. All opinions expressed are those of the author.
The Completed Model
Separatist warships often feature more rounded shapes than vessels in the Republic navy and the Invisible Hand's torpedo-like silhouette is immediately recognisable. The proportions of this model look great and I like the dark blue and bright light yellow highlights on the hull, which are accurate and provide a dash of colour to the Starship Collection. Also, the contrast between the warship and its base, including a printed plaque and a brick marking the 25th anniversary, is attractive.
This model measures almost 30cm in length, so is substantially smaller than 75356 Executor Super Star Destroyer, as one would expect given its piece count and price. Nevertheless, the size feels appropriate to me. While they are obviously nowhere near in scale with one another, the Executor should definitely be larger on display.
I think the Invisible Hand has a reasonable presence when displayed separately though, due in part to its detailed hull. Colours differ for its whole length and the forward section is darker than the back, corresponding with the source material. The shaping is also impressive on the whole, making clever use of an ice skate for the dreadnought's sharp prow.
Moreover, the command bridge clearly stands out, represented by a trans-green 1x1 rounded tile attached to a clip. For its scale, this piece works perfectly and I love the trans-green colour, recreating the green lighting inside the bridge onscreen. The curvature of the hull directly below the bridge leaves a little to be desired, but there are few alternatives for a model of this size.
The alternating stripes along both sides of the Invisible Hand look marvellous, while a layer of black pieces and trans-yellow tiles forms visible decks. Once again, this reflects the onscreen vessel. However, not all the details are brick-built, as stickers are needed for the CIS symbols and smaller yellow and black stripes, with small dots forming proton torpedo tubes underneath.
After sustaining major damage during the Battle of Coruscant, the Separatist flagship famously breaks in half as it descends into the planet's atmosphere. I hoped this LEGO recreation would do the same and indeed it does! The two halves are connected with four clips, so it feels strong when they are together, but the model also separates quite easily.
Clips, grille tiles and 1x1 round tiles with bars provide texture across the top of the vessel, only interrupted by the secondary bridge, from where ground forces are directed. Trans-yellow parts are also integrated to good effect here, but my favourite details are the black plates between the dorsal texture and the hangar entrances, denoting another narrow layer of exposed decks.
The cavernous central hangar bay is an important feature of the Invisible Hand and trans-light blue panels comprise its atmospheric shield, so you can see all the way through. Furthermore, this hangar bay helps to disguise the transition between the bulging bottom half of the hull and its narrower upper section.
Looking through the shields reveals some tiny vehicles inside, although they are easier to view with the top detached, of course. Dark red and yellow 1x1 round plates represent Obi-Wan and Anakin's parked Jedi Interceptors, while a few reddish brown elements form an MTT! These are charming additions to the model, showing real attention to detail.
Providence-class destroyers are equipped with advanced sensor systems, mounted on towers above and beneath the fuselage. However, the Invisible Hand instead features an observation deck atop its spire, where Chancellor Palpatine is restrained. The shape of the tower appears accurate and I like the trans-clear 1x2 semicircular tile, representing the deck's curved window.
Another ice skate forms a fin near the back of the warship, with its three engines underneath. These are correctly arranged and I like how black pieces are used behind the engines, giving the impression of depth and mechanical details. The trans-orange glow is similarly appropriate when compared with the movie.
Overall
LEGO has neglected the Separatist navy and the Invisible Hand in particular, so I have been looking forward to 75377 Invisible Hand very much. Fortunately, it does not disappoint, as the model captures the distinctive shape of its source material and is highly detailed, taking its size into consideration.
The vehicles inside the hangar bay are a fun addition, as is the model's ability to break in half. Some will miss a minifigure, but I think focusing exclusively on the Invisible Hand is a sensible decision, not least because that keeps the price relatively reasonable. Even so, £46.99, $49.99 or €52.99 is more expensive than I would like, despite the excellent design.
149 likes
52 comments on this article
...but I can see it.
...and it doesnt have any fingers
"I've been looking forward to this!"
Stoked to finally get a model of my favorite flagship. Hoping for a playscale at some point.
It's nice to see some prequel representation in the Starship Collection. Hopefully we see a Venator or Lucrehulk in the future as those would complement this ship perfectly.
It seems too short, almost "chibi".
@rople said:
"That's not a hand, that's a pen!"
its a 50s space blaster
Is that a new 2x2 round inverted tile or are my eyes deceiving me? (don't trust them)
It's a bit too fat and I find that a little offputting but I've wanted an Invisible Hand for ages and used to design my own at this scale on LDD when I was kid so I'm still excited to get this. Love the hanger.
@HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures..
@Judgeguy said:
"It's a bit too fat and I find that a little offputting but I've wanted an Invisible Hand for ages and used to design my own at this scale on LDD when I was kid so I'm still excited to get this. Love the hanger."
Fat Fingers
"This is where the fun begins!"
Definitely going to get the whole midi scale starship collection, maybe I'll wait for a discount tho...
@Judgeguy said:
"Is that a new 2x2 round inverted tile or are my eyes deceiving me? (don't trust them)"
a) Your eyes are deceiving you if you can see this ship at all
b) I believe so.... Pick A Brick time! (when it comes out)
Should the observation deck really be tilted forward like that?
What a mess of colours this is, I suppose that's correct but still...
@Judgeguy said:
"Is that a new 2x2 round inverted tile"
Not all-new but otherwise you're right.
"Not to worry, we are still flying half a ship."
Amazing set! I disagree with you on the price though. Compared to the other models (especially that overpriced Tantive IV), $50 seems perfect for this.
@rople said:
"That's not a hand, that's a pen!"
"That's no hand..."
@VaultDweller_197 said:
" @HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures.."
Figures? @HJB2810 said "fingers".
Anyway , it's called a hand. I wonder why, it doesn't look like a hand at all, not even remotely. And it's not invisible either.
Or did it have a cloaking device in-universe? I admit I don't know anything about this ship. Where was it shown on screen?
this model's function really puts the "separate" in "Separatist," amirite?
@AustinPowers said:
" @VaultDweller_197 said:
" @HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures.."
Figures? @HJB2810 said "fingers".
Anyway , it's called a hand. I wonder why, it doesn't look like a hand at all, not even remotely. And it's not invisible either.
Or did it have a cloaking device in-universe? I admit I don't know anything about this ship. Where was it shown on screen? "
It was there the whole prequel trilogy! You just didn't see it!
All jokes aside, it's a reference to economics. Adam Smith coined the term to denote the mechanism with which the free market economy is moved, as if by an 'invisible hand'.
Why economics? Because the CIS is bankrolled by powerful trade companies and the banking clan.
And yes, I only realized this now. I wasn't thinking of Adam Smith during the opening of RotS
'Don't worry, we're still flying half a ship.'
@AustinPowers said:
" @VaultDweller_197 said:
" @HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures.."
Figures? @HJB2810 said "fingers".
Anyway , it's called a hand. I wonder why, it doesn't look like a hand at all, not even remotely. And it's not invisible either.
Or did it have a cloaking device in-universe? I admit I don't know anything about this ship. Where was it shown on screen? "
Episode III Revenge of the Sith.
Meh...I'll save my money for more interesting and attractive sets. When Lego releases Star Wars sets that I don't like, my wallet is happy.
“Another happy landing”
@Binnekamp said:
" @AustinPowers said:
" @VaultDweller_197 said:
" @HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures.."
Figures? @HJB2810 said "fingers".
Anyway , it's called a hand. I wonder why, it doesn't look like a hand at all, not even remotely. And it's not invisible either.
Or did it have a cloaking device in-universe? I admit I don't know anything about this ship. Where was it shown on screen? "
It was there the whole prequel trilogy! You just didn't see it!
All jokes aside, it's a reference to economics. Adam Smith coined the term to denote the mechanism with which the free market economy is moved, as if by an 'invisible hand'.
Why economics? Because the CIS is bankrolled by powerful trade companies and the banking clan."
Truly I say, if there isn't a ship in Star Wars called the Iron Fist then that's just a missed opportunity.
Huge respect to @CapnRex101 for actually putting his own invisible hand in the picture. Above and beyond.
@Judgeguy said:
"Is that a new 2x2 round inverted tile or are my eyes deceiving me? (don't trust them)"
That part debuted in the 75354 Coruscant Guard Gunship, on the bottoms of the wingtip turrets. It's a strange place to put it; the 2x2 "slider" would make much more sense there.
Great detail in the hangar, it made me really happy to see.
I can't see a hand!
Oh wait, it's invisible.
Mmmm. Now they just need to release General Grevious and Count Dooku in a later set. I for one really want Grevious, but previous renditions of the Soulless One price rendered that a dream. But maybe, with things like this, he can pop up again!
A minifigure of Lushros Dofine would have been great.
I'm only reading half of these comments.
I like this. I love the representation of larger CIS ships. I'm sad the minifig is printed so well (Lego finally applies more than one coat and it's invisible ink). I'm sadder about the price. I'm in no hurry to get it. So, I'll be happy when I get it at a great discount.
@LEGOldHead80s said:
" @AustinPowers said:
" @VaultDweller_197 said:
" @HJB2810 said:
"...and it doesnt have any fingers"
Not everything needs figures.."
Figures? @HJB2810 said "fingers".
Anyway , it's called a hand. I wonder why, it doesn't look like a hand at all, not even remotely. And it's not invisible either.
Or did it have a cloaking device in-universe? I admit I don't know anything about this ship. Where was it shown on screen? "
Episode III Revenge of the Sith. "
Thank you. I really have to rewatch the prequel trilogy. I have the BluRays after all.
About the only thing I can remember about those films is the awesome pod race sequence from Episode I, and how godawful I found Jar Jar Binks.
I think this is my favourite out of the Starship Collection so far. The Separatist navy has indeed been underrepresented previously – other than starfighters, there was the Malevolence, and one (1) microscale Lucrehulk in an advent calendar.
The scale here is well chosen too, I love all the little details and brick-built stripes, and the shape translates surprisingly well. Just a pleasing-looking model all around.
@Binnekamp: It's a theme I wish had been carried on more with Separatist ship names. The Episode III cross-section book also gave us "Tide of Progress XII", and one of the trading card games did "Voice of Industry II" (both Banking Clan Munificient-class frigates).
Open letter to Lego's product developers :
In 1996 the set 6546-Slick Racer, a small car consisting in 34 pieces had 6 printed elements.
Why in this collector item sticker?
53eu
Price it 54 and get rid of the sticker?!
@AverageChimaEnjoyer
Iron Fist (Executor-class) was commanded by Imperial Zsinj untill Han blasted his bridge after saying “Kiss my wookie.”
It's now part of the legends.
@watcher21 said:
" @AverageChimaEnjoyer
Iron Fist (Executor-class) was commanded by Imperial Zsinj untill Han blasted his bridge after saying “Kiss my wookie.”
It's now part of the legends.
"
Likes: "Kiss my furry Wookiee!"
Too much?
Have to say that I moved away from Star Wars sets a long time ago, too tired of all the grey parts and, the sheer size of the sets.
However, I'm really digging the amount of detail these designers have been able to accommodate on such a small size! Will probably either use existing parts to build most of these models, except the Tantive IV, I don't seem to have white parts xD
Also, must say, every time I see these sets I can't stop thinking about tabletop game with them.
Imagine a mini Venator at this scale...
Probably going to be my first (and likely only, UNLESS they make a Venator, perhaps after the UCS set retires) set from this new Starship Collection.
It's a shame that they've removed the "Midi-scale" branding because as MandR pointed out, this could limit the range because vehicles such as the AT-TE, Juggernaut and other walkers aren't "starships" (although Lego could make another collection for ground vehicles)
personally I don’t see the price as a problem comparatively speaking. Even though it doesn’t have any figures, $50 feels about right.
But I have to say, when they make a vehicle in minifigure scale, and then later make a midi/mini scale, it’s cool. But when they just make a midi/mini scale first, it leaves you a bit unsatisfied. This is a great set, but I can’t wait to get a minifigure scale version one day
@MisterP said:
"Open letter to Lego's product developers :
In 1996 the set 6546-Slick Racer, a small car consisting in 34 pieces had 6 printed elements.
Why in this collector item sticker?
53eu
Price it 54 and get rid of the sticker?!
"
Sad but true answer: because LEGO of 1996 was a very different company from the 2024 one.
You could also rightly ask why sets don't contain baseplates anymore, why Technic sets don't have B (and sometimes C and D) models anymore, with printed instructions no less, or why apparently only a licensed set is a good set in their eyes of today. And so on and so forth.
The only good thing is, nowadays you have a choice if you are not satisfied with LEGO's offerings. In 1996 you didn't because LEGO was the only brick producing company available.
@Torrent_Studios said:
"Probably going to be my first (and likely only, UNLESS they make a Venator, perhaps after the UCS set retires) set from this new Starship Collection.
It's a shame that they've removed the "Midi-scale" branding because as MandR pointed out, this could limit the range because vehicles such as the AT-TE, Juggernaut and other walkers aren't "starships" (although Lego could make another collection for ground vehicles)"
While I agree that the Starship Collection branding is potentially limiting, I think abandoning the midi-scale moniker was a sensible decision. The term is essentially meaningless, as even existing LEGO fans disagree about which sets should be considered midi-scale and what the descriptor means, so it would be even more confusing to a new fan.
@AustinPowers said:
" @MisterP said:
"Open letter to Lego's product developers :
In 1996 the set 6546-Slick Racer, a small car consisting in 34 pieces had 6 printed elements.
Why in this collector item sticker?
53eu
Price it 54 and get rid of the sticker?!
"
Sad but true answer: because LEGO of 1996 was a very different company from the 2024 one."
Agreed; the company is much more successful today and provides a far broader range of products.
Is it just me and my monitor, or is it super-obvious that one of the trans-light blue panels at the hangar bay is off-color? I'm a little bit tired of that kind of quality-issue in general.
Genesis wrote a song about this ship:
She seems to have an invisible touch, yeah
She reaches in and grabs right hold of your heart
She seems to have an invisible touch, yeah
It takes control and slowly tears you apart
The price in usd and euro makes no sense... $49.99 / €52.99 ??
I'm glad they finally made a set for this ship.
Here's hoping for a Lucrehulk-class ship to finally be made eventually too.
My maybe it is me but I don't like it. It's a mess of different colors without anything really making an impression on me.
@AustinPowers said:
" @MisterP said:
"Open letter to Lego's product developers :
In 1996 the set 6546-Slick Racer, a small car consisting in 34 pieces had 6 printed elements.
Why in this collector item sticker?
53eu
Price it 54 and get rid of the sticker?!
"
Sad but true answer: because LEGO of 1996 was a very different company from the 2024 one.
You could also rightly ask why sets don't contain baseplates anymore, why Technic sets don't have B (and sometimes C and D) models anymore, with printed instructions no less, or why apparently only a licensed set is a good set in their eyes of today. And so on and so forth.
The only good thing is, nowadays you have a choice if you are not satisfied with LEGO's offerings. In 1996 you didn't because LEGO was the only brick producing company available. "
Are you sure it was the only one? Your explanation seems to suggest LEGO can't possibly have been responsible for any evil sticker-containing sets in 1996, and I had 6335, 6615, and 6958 as a kid so *somebody* must have been producing them.
@AustinPowers said:
" @MisterP said:
"Open letter to Lego's product developers :
In 1996 the set 6546-Slick Racer, a small car consisting in 34 pieces had 6 printed elements.
Why in this collector item sticker?
53eu
Price it 54 and get rid of the sticker?!
"
Sad but true answer: because LEGO of 1996 was a very different company from the 2024 one.
You could also rightly ask why sets don't contain baseplates anymore, why Technic sets don't have B (and sometimes C and D) models anymore, with printed instructions no less, or why apparently only a licensed set is a good set in their eyes of today. And so on and so forth.
The only good thing is, nowadays you have a choice if you are not satisfied with LEGO's offerings. In 1996 you didn't because LEGO was the only brick producing company available. "
Yes, You're right 1996 Lego is not 2024 Lego, and I don't want other brick companies, I like Lego for their quality, nostalgia, community etc..
I'm only saying that a model with stickers has less quality than one with printed elements. Period.
Ok printed elemenents are more expensive.
I'm not even a sw fan, but seeing this model that clearly tagets collectors, not kids, I'm wondering why Lego did not make printed elements.
It's not ninjago city, with more than 30 stickers. we are talking about of 2 stikers. the production of 2 small printed elementes should not impact the retali price.
Other wise I'd have preferred griebling made by bricks or no stickers/prints at all.
I really hate stickers, that's the point
@MisterP said:
"I don't want other brick companies, I like Lego for their quality, nostalgia, community etc..."
You are right about the community and the nostalgia, but quality? The days when LEGO was quality leader are long gone. You will find that many of the competitors by now offer better quality than LEGO, especially when it comes to colour consistency, mould marks, transparent pieces, and of course prints, where even when LEGO does prints they are often of very bad quality.
As for prints versus stickers, production costs are one reason, logistics are cited as another. Apparently LEGO, a company capable of managing an absurdly large assortment of parts is unable to handle a couple more for printed versions of said pieces. Strange.
Companies like Cobi or BlueBrixx have even more varied parts collections than LEGO, with loads of new variants of pieces that LEGO doesn't even have in its inventory, and well known pieces in colours that LEGO as yet has never offered. Still, all their decorated parts are prints, and looking through their catalogues there are also far more printed parts overall than LEGO's inventory has on offer.
Perhaps they just have better logistics.
For those wondering, pretty sure the ship’s name was meant to be a reference to General Grievous’ incredible speed, so deadly to so many Jedi. Because this was back when he was actually still something of a threat to experienced Jedi Knights and even masters, as opposed to the joke he’s become since.
@SearchlightRG said:
"For those wondering, pretty sure the ship’s name was meant to be a reference to General Grievous’ incredible speed, so deadly to so many Jedi. Because this was back when he was actually still something of a threat to experienced Jedi Knights and even masters, as opposed to the joke he’s become since."
I thought it was a reference to Palpatine, pulling the strings on both sides like an invisible puppet master.
This is really the only one i was looking forward to in this collection after the executor from last year. I do feel for the price points of all three starships in the collection, a minifigure would have been perfect next to that new plaque. A General Grievous would have just lifted the set immensely.
But i am well aware any criticism from a LEGO fan always ends with 'could have added a minifig' or 'needed more minifigs' LOL