We're dipping our toes once again into the gruff militaristic world of Halo with another figure set from MEGA Bloks. Whereas last time we made out fingers sore building the awesome Scorpion's Sting tank set, this time the pieces come pre-assembled. Lock and load; we're reviewing the MEGA Bloks Halo Metallic Series Cobalt micro action figure.
Those new to the world of MEGA Bloks (we're recent converts ourselves) should probably check out our review of the Charlie Series figure from last month. Getting an understanding of how the MEGA Bloks Halo figures work is a good starting point, as despite these guys standing just a couple of inches tall, they are amazingly articulated. The MEGA Bloks Halo Metallic Series Cobalt figure is no exception.
Unlike the blind bag Charlie Series, where you don't know what you're getting until you snip the poly bag open, the Metallic Series have a very clear image of the figure on the packaging... which itself is quite unique.
The plastic packaging itself is 'playable', being styled after a drop pod. The idea here is that the character inside has used the drop pod to infiltrate enemy territory, zooming down onto a planet's surface from the depths of space. Nice.
The pod itself is made from just two interlocking parts. It's a shame that there are no actual studs on either piece so it can be built upon, or added to, but as packaging goes it is very nice. Each figure in the series gets their own, matching the colour of their armour or suit.
And here's what's inside. As well as the figure itself (along with his weapon) each in the range includes a printed 2x4 MEGA Bloks brick, which again matches the colour-theme of the figure, and acts as a very nice base stand.
This particular figure is resplendent in metallic-tinted armour (hence the Metallic Series) which nicely sparkles in the light. The paint job is also slightly more involved than an average figure, with shark teeth detailing on the helmet, a metallic sheen to the visor plate, and finger-less gloves. The Halo logo on the supplied brick is also printed with metallic paint.
Another extra for this figure, and one that we've yet to see on other MEGA Bloks figures, is a backpack. This simple black piece slots directly into the hole on the rear of the figure, and goes a long way to adding bulk and extra realism to the character. The above is also a nice shot of the included weapon; a sleek and simple pistol.
We've said it before, but hot-damn these things are posable. The level of articulation for such a small figure is great, allowing kids and collectors alike to set the toys up in some dramatic poses. The included brick, which is higher than the thin plate base that ships with the Charlie Series, adds lots of possibilities for stance, as well as being highly collectable itself.
And lets be honest; the metallic paint, the added extras, and the shark teeth details add up to make this an exceptionally cool looking character. Whether it will wind up fixed in a pose on your shelf, or tackling the Covenant hordes each day in some rough play, the MEGA Bloks Halo Metallic Series Cobalt is a welcome additional to any collection.
Be sure to also check out the other figures in the line, and hold your breath in anticipation for October's release of Halo 5: Guardians!
£3.99