G.i. Joe Classified # 180 Desert Scorpion
In order to instill fear into the Cobra Vipers, a punishment system was created. Whenever a Viper became too unruly or difficult to control, he would be assigned to the Toxo-Vipers and stay there. However, those that were deemed still redeemable would be added into the ranks of the Desert Scorpions, where they would still suffer, but would be given a chance to return to their original posts, if they managed to keep their record spotless for a year.
I love the inclusion of a cloth cape for this figure. Originally in the vintage line, all they had was a tiny cloth shemagh to cover the back of their nape for protection from the blistering desert heat.
A grappling hook launcher is included with this set. We originally got this accessory before from the Alley Vipers, but this time, it comes with a rope attached to the hook.
The Desert Scorpion’s backpack comes with tactical visual gear.
By hooking up to the backpack’s tactical scope, the Desert Scorpion can take cover behind rock (or bury himself in shallow sand) and keep an eye out for enemy movement through his visor.
As cool as this is though, the cable does tend to limit the figure’s head articulation, so for the rest of the review, I decided not to keep it plugged on.
For weaponry, the Desert Scorpion comes with two knives. One can be sheathed on his right thigh, while another can be sheathed on the small of his back.
The Desert Scorpion also comes with a pair of fist spikes for silent melee attacks.
For ranged attacks, the set provides a submachine gun for the Desert Scorpion.
Removable ammo mag.
The set provides the figure an alternate “unmasked” face for added variety.
Lol.. face swap..
Lastly, the figure comes with a long “cattle prod” to help it tame the giant mutant scorpion it’s bundled with.
The prod can be stowed on the right side of the backpack when not in use.
Giant scorpion
Impressively, Hasbro decided to include this giant, very articulated beast with the Desert Scorpion! While there’s no real basis for making this thing so big (the vintage toy came with a Scorpion that was smaller than a dog), it’s really impressive to see what they pull off here for the price point. Lots of articulation on this thing!
Hmm.. I’m suddenly craving seafood.. lol.
Overall, another amazing release! The new innovations added to the Desert Scorpion are really cool. The cloth cape, the tactical backpack scope and face swap parts are a very welcome addition.
The giant scorpion is very cool as well! Unfortunately, while I do love the inclusion of big scorpion and all of its detailed glory, it does push this thing higher up on the price point. I would’ve preferred the Desert Scorpion as a solo release just to keep things economical. But it’s still super impressive to see them together as a full package.
Hasbro’s internal oddball codename for pre-orders for the Desert Scorpion is “Trent W Pet”
Gold
