Imperial Hovertank Pilot
sw0796 · Star Wars
Rogue One · 2016 - Released alongside the 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' film wave. This era saw a shift towards highly detailed, gritty printing for Star Wars minifigures.
Figure ID
sw0796
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2016 - Released alongside the 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' film wave. This era saw a shift towards highly detailed, gritty printing for Star Wars minifigures.
Rarity
Uncommon. This figure was exclusive to a single retail set and was discontinued only a couple of years after release, making it moderately difficult to find in pristine condition.
Head
Light Flesh head with a determined expression, though obscured by a unique Imperial Hovertank Pilot helmet mold which features dark gray and black detailing.
Torso
White Imperial armor design featuring a rectangular control box, a red Imperial insignia on the left chest, and detailed gray cooling vents/ribbing. Plain white arms and white hands.
Legs
White legs with extensive printing including black knee gaps, utility pouches, and belt detailing that continues from the torso. The printing is limited to the front.
Accessories
Usually equipped with a black medium blaster (stud shooter or standard blaster rifle). The figure in the image is currently missing its blaster accessory.
Color Scheme
Primary white with accents of black, dark gray, and a distinctive small red triangular Imperial mark on the chest.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The torso features fine line work for the mechanical elements, and the helmet features accurate mold-specific printing for the breathing apparatus and visor.
Variants
There are no major manufacturing variants for sw0796, but the character design is similar to the later 'Imperial Combat Driver' (sw0922).
Condition Notes
Prone to yellowing if exposed to sunlight. Dust can easily accumulate in the crevices of the uniquely molded helmet. Small scuffs on the white torso print are common.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $8.00 - $12.00 USD; New/Mint: $15.00 - $18.00 USD. Prices fluctuate based on the popularity of Rogue One era collectibles.
Price (New)
Included in set 75152 which retailed for $29.99 USD in 2016. Two of these pilots were included in that set.
Compatible Sets
75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank (2016).
Character Background
These pilots operated the TX-225 GAVw 'Occupier' combat assault tanks. They were specialized Imperial soldiers seen patrolling the streets of Jedha City in Rogue One.
Design Notes
The helmet is a one-piece unique mold specifically designed for this character, bridging the aesthetic gap between a standard Stormtrooper and a Shoretrooper.
Similar Minifigures
Imperial Combat Driver (sw0922), Scarif Stormtrooper (sw0787), Imperial AT-ST Driver (sw0797).
Collectibility
High. Since it was exclusive to one set and represents a specific, popular movie appearance, it is a staple for many Star Wars 'army builders'.
History
Debuted as part of the initial Rogue One wave. It represents LEGO's trend of creating highly specific trooper variants for every Disney-era Star Wars film.
Interesting Facts
The design of this pilot's helmet was based on early concept art for the Shoretrooper. The red mark on the chest is a rank or unit designation unique to this pilot type.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside or alongside the 75152 Hovertank, or on a desert-themed Jedha MOC with Chirrut Îmwe and Baze Malbus.
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are excellent for custom 'Remnant' Imperial soldiers or industrial-themed sci-fi MOCs due to the clean white-and-gray mechanical look.
Overall Assessment
A fantastic, screen-accurate minifigure that captures the industrial aesthetic of the Galactic Empire. It is a 'must-have' for fans of the Rogue One film and Imperial specialists.