Set Review ➟ 31103 Rocket Truck
Theme: Creator 3-in-1
Release: 2020
Parts: 198
I was excited just hearing the name. “Rocket Truck”—how can it not be cool? So, let’s get into it! The box has perforated finger holes which I hate because you ruin the box getting it open. I would also like to see the name of the set on the box, and the part count for that matter. The set comes with a single spine-bound instruction book, which is far better than the three separate booklets that often come with these 3-in-1 sets. A quick look through the parts shows no particularly interesting or special parts. There were also noticeable imperfections on the transparent windscreen piece – hopefully a flaw isolated to this particular set.
A-Model: Rocket Truck
The first model uses an interesting combination of technic and hinge parts to attach the front bumper. It goes together slowly, and the outcome is never obvious—it keeps you guessing throughout the build as to what will be fitted next. Although some construction methods seem dubious during the build, it is sturdy once the frame is finished, at which point the thing still looks ungainly and odd. But then you put on the wheels—and it looks cool!
The completed rocket truck is fantastic. Flames! A huge wing on the back! It makes me think of a Ken Block gymkhana drift car. The rear is slightly raised, adding a subtle touch of aggression. From the front it looks comically narrow, especially in relation to the tyres. The roof also falls off too easily, but the worst thing is the colour-scheme. This flame-spitting race machine needs some bright orange or yellow, or contrasting blue, rather than two-tone green over white.
Grade: 8/10
B-Model: Pick-Up Truck
The second model is quite elegantly constructed, which is a feat because at points it seems hashed together using less-than-ideal part combinations. The compromises of the 3-in-1 begin to surface, but are then hidden within the structure. There is also some redundancy in the instructions, given the symmetry of the model. The green hues are more suitable on this model, which is well-proportioned despite the very wide tyres. Kids will have fun with this thing on ramps, performing stunts, crashing, and racing it.
Grade: 6/10
C-Model: Quad Bike
The third model is quite small and takes around half the time of the first, which is good because at this point things are becoming a bit repetitive, especially the chassis and axle arrangement. The very effective use of grey mudguards (though not as mudguards!) is a point of interest. Kids will likely enjoy the quad-bike, and I won’t really mind if they crash it, because it’s not very attractive. It looks ungainly at the front end and appears front-heavy. It does look better from the rear, but could do with some exhaust pipes to jazz it up.
Grade: 5/10
Conclusion
This set was easy and enjoyable to build. There was nothing out-of-the-ordinary and the three models all have their merits. The usual caveats of the 3-in-1 sets are plain to see, and the three models are a bit too similar in construction to maintain the level of interest through the build process. The rocket truck itself is a really cool model, but it could have been truly kick-ass if built in a better colour scheme. I don’t think I would buy this set for myself, though kids will likely enjoy it.
Overall Grade: 6/10
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