I’ve always had a soft spot for Slave I. It’s one of the strangest ship designs in Star Wars - it looks like it shouldn’t work at all - and yet it’s instantly recognisable. Building Bandai’s 1/72 Slave I model really reminded me why it’s such a fan favourite, and why Boba Fett remains effortlessly cool.
Despite its odd, upright shape, this kit goes together beautifully. Bandai’s snap-fit design means no glue, no stress, and no fighting the parts. Everything clicks into place with that satisfying precision Bandai are known for.
The multi-colour moulding works really well here, especially on the hull panels and cockpit section. You can build it straight out of the box and it still looks great, but I added a wash and a bit of weathering to bring out the panels and make it feel more “lived in”. This is a bounty hunter’s ship, after all - it shouldn’t look factory fresh.
You also get some great extras: a detailed cockpit, a pilot figure for Boba Fett, effect parts, and a display stand that lets you show Slave I in its vertical flight mode, which is absolutely the right way to display it.
Slave I first appears in The Empire Strikes Back, where it instantly stands out among the sea of Star Destroyers and TIE Fighters. It’s heavily modified, packed with hidden weapons, and perfectly suited to Boba Fett’s methodical, ruthless hunting style.
The seismic charge scene in Attack of the Clones is still one of the most memorable sound design moments in Star Wars. Even building the model, you can’t help but imagine that low rumble followed by total destruction - a reminder that Slave I isn’t just weird, it’s deadly.
Once finished, Slave I looks fantastic on display. It’s chunky, unconventional, and full of character. It also takes up more visual space than you’d expect, especially when mounted vertically on the stand.
If you enjoy kits that are a bit different or you’re a Boba Fett fan (let’s be honest, who isn’t?) this is an easy recommendation. It’s a fun, rewarding build and a real centrepiece once it’s done.
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