Today we are bringing you another look at a Spring 2021 set from Mega Construx - the Hijacked Ghost, based off of Halo Infinite. This set is designed to mimic Recon Getaway in terms of it’s appeal and army building potential - providing collectors with a fantastic way to get their hands on multiple new Banished troopers in one package.
The four figures here are designed to be army builders, much like the prior set released at this price point. Up first is the only non-army builder – the Spartan Anubis. This figure comes in Metallic Green armour with the lighter armour highlights, and includes a Black MA40 Assault rifle. Following on from this we have the Grunt Imperial – the same design as those seen in Halo 4 and Halo 5. Interestingly this figure is different to the one in the AA Gun set – with slightly different designs, and a slightly different red colour for the head.
We also have the Grunt Conscript – who is identical to the one included in the Skiff set, and we also have a Brute Warrior – a figure which appears identical to the Brute Warrior included in the Mercenary Combat Unit. It is cool seeing this figure repackaged for people who may not be able to get their hands on the exclusive. It is worth mentioning that both Grunts include a unique crimson-coloured version of the Plasma Pistol which looks awesome.
The main build of the set is a new interpretation of the Banished Ghost – and one which uses a couple of new elements to get the specific shape and design which we are going to see when Halo Infinite releases. Whilst some have expressed a dislike towards specific sculpted elements being used here, I personally appreciate them – as they help to really capture the unique features of this vehicle in a way in which traditional brick-based building couldn’t. It is worth noting that we have received a Banished Ghost before, when Halo Wars 2 released, and when they are both compared it is clear to see that this version is much more streamlined and agile. Whilst it is easy to argue this one may have benefitted from the additional bulk of the older set, it is important to remember that the old set included a single figure.
The new Ghost also has a fun feature where the launching turrets are positioned in such a way that pushing the Ghost down on a table will launch the projectiles. This is a fun and intuitive play feature – making it easy for younger fans to play with this model. Much like on other models, the side fin-type elements are also adjustable on this model, too.
The 2-in-1 rebuilds are continuing in 2021, and the rebuild for the Ghost is interesting. The Banished turret build reuses the key elements from the Ghost Build and looks OK but would perhaps benefit from some additional part usage (I did realise I built it slightly wrong - on the instructions the larger cover piece is further down). The Banished Fortification here is a nice little scenery piece – and one which will be useful for MOC Makers and Toy Photographers alike.
Overall, this set builds on the format of Recon Getaway in equally great ways – creating a set which is appealing to army builders, and crucially, which includes some highly desirable figures. I feel like the alt build in this set is more useable than that found in the prior set, and thus, there is even more value to be found in this set. If you are building your Banished collection then this is a set you do not want to miss.
Make sure to check out our review on YouTube, linked below, too!