Rocket Racer
973pb0117c01 · LEGO Racers / Town
LEGO Racers (Promotional / Game-based) · 1999/2000 - Primarily featured in 'LEGO Racers' and 'LEGO Racers 2' video games; the physical figure was released in the late '90s.
Figure ID
973pb0117c01
Theme
LEGO Racers / Town
Year Released
1999/2000 - Primarily featured in 'LEGO Racers' and 'LEGO Racers 2' video games; the physical figure was released in the late '90s.
Rarity
Uncommon. While the torso is specific, the figure was distributed in smaller sets and as a promotional polybag, making it harder to find in mint condition today.
Head
Yellow classic head with a determined expression, thick black eyebrows, and a unique black goatee/beard stubble print. It is often topped with a blue short-brimmed cap or a white racing helmet.
Torso
Red torso featuring the LEGO 'Racers' logo (three white triangles/flags) printed on the center chest. Back is typically plain. Red arms with light gray or yellow hands depending on the specific set inclusion.
Legs
Plain red legs with red hip piece. No printing on front or sides.
Accessories
Usually paired with a blue baseball cap (as seen) or a white racing helmet with a translucent visor. The black weapon held in the image is not an original accessory and is a custom third-party or 'BrickArms' style piece.
Color Scheme
Primary Red with Blue headgear. The white logo on the torso provides a high-contrast accent common for racing-themed figures of the late 90s.
Printing Details
Pad-printed torso logo with high durability. The facial print is distinct but susceptible to fading. This era of printing is known for thick, opaque ink compared to modern thinner applications.
Variants
Variations exist in hand color (yellow vs. gray) and headgear (cap vs. helmet). The 'Rocket Racer' character in the video games also appeared in an upgraded silver/chrome outfit in later installments.
Condition Notes
Wear on the torso print (the white ink can chip) and neck-pin stress marks are common. The blue cap is prone to bite marks or loose clutch on the head stud.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $15 USD. The value is driven more by nostalgia for the video game than the rarity of the parts themselves.
Price (New)
Original sets ranged from $3.00 (polybags) to $15.00. It was not sold as a standalone retail character in a blister pack.
Compatible Sets
Set 1354 (Dino Island Studios), promotional polybag 5600, or various 'Drome Racers' era small boxes.
Character Background
Rocket Racer is the legendary final boss of the LEGO Racers video game (1999). He is the 'World Champion' of the racing circuit and a cult-classic icon for fans of LEGO 90s digital media.
Design Notes
The use of the Racers logo on a standard Town-style torso marks the transition period where LEGO began creating more character-driven branding within system sets.
Similar Minifigures
Veronica Voltage, Xalax Racers, and Classic Town Race Drivers (e.g., set 6648).
Collectibility
Moderate. Currently trending upward due to 90s/00s nostalgia from adults who played the LEGO Racers PC/N64/PS1 games.
History
Debuted during LEGO's expansion into digital gaming. He served as the primary antagonist/rival for an entire generation of LEGO fans.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an 'evil' or 'rival' boss, he has a very standard 'cool guy' look. His car in the game was the 'Rocket' and featured impossible-to-build illegal techniques.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed next to a custom MOC version of his iconic red, gray, and yellow race car or in a mid-90s Town theme display.
Modification Potential
Excellent. Many fans swap the torso onto more modern legs (with side stripes) to give him a 'UCS' style upgrade that matches his high-fidelity game render.
Overall Assessment
A nostalgic 7/10. While the physical parts are relatively simple, the character represented is one of the most famous figures in LEGO video game history.