LEGO Star Wars Embo returns after 15 years with major changes
Fifteen years after his only LEGO Star Wars appearance, Embo is back – not as you remember him, but with a dramatically updated minifigure.
The bounty hunter returns in 75451 Hutt Palace Sentry Droid Showdown with a dramatically updated minifigure. First seen in 7930 Bounty Hunter Assault Gunship in 2011, Embo’s comeback follows his upcoming role in The Mandalorian and Grogu – but a decade and a half of LEGO Group design changes have significantly altered the character.
The original Embo minifigure has become highly sought after, now fetching around £45 on the secondary market. As part of a Clone Wars-era set, its design is noticeably bright, especially compared to the much darker new version.
That first Embo still holds up well. His exclusive printed hat remains excellent, while the vibrant torso closely matches the animated character. The black epaulettes are slightly inaccurate (they should lean more silver), but still fit the overall look. His detailed face print, complete with a gold mouth, even includes back printing. The legs reflect the limits of the period but work effectively. A sloped design suggests flowing fabric around the waist, paired with a neatly printed belt.
The new Embo minifigure, however, takes a different approach. Some changes feel intentional. Moving from animation to live-action naturally brings a darker, more muted palette. Some details are clear improvements. Most notably, the epaulettes are now the correct silver, fixing one of the biggest inaccuracies from the original design.
But other elements are less convincing. The skin tone feels noticeably dull compared to the original. Torso printing is strong, although it’s unclear whether the new symbol is accurate, as we’ve yet to see Embo clearly in live-action lighting.
The updated hat is a clear improvement, offering more intricate detail. The legs, though, are less successful. While foot printing is a welcome addition, the new piece looks rigid and loses the flowing effect of the original design.
The face print raises further questions. Embo’s Clone Wars eyes are distinctly yellow, yet this version swaps them for green. That could reflect the live-action interpretation, but without a clear on-screen reference, it feels like an odd choice.
Accessories also highlight the shift in priorities. The new Embo includes a stud-shooting crossbow, while the original used a simple grey version. The older design feels more accurate, but the LEGO Group clearly prioritises play features here.
There is one clear upgrade: the inclusion of Embo’s canine companion, Keibu. The original minifigure lacked his anooba, Marrok, making this a welcome addition.
Ultimately, price is the deciding factor. The original Embo costs around £45 on the aftermarket – the same as a brand-new 75451 Hutt Palace Sentry Droid Showdown. While the older minifigure arguably captures the character better, it’s difficult to justify that cost over an entire new set.
Embo has changed a lot in fifteen years – and not necessarily for the better. But unless you’re chasing that classic Clone Wars look, the new version is the far more sensible buy.
Ahead of its August 1 release, you can pre-order 75451 Hutt Palace Sentry Droid Showdown now from LEGO.com for £44.99 / $49.99 / €49.99.
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