G.I. Joe Classified Series #161, Snake Eyes & Polar Bear Review: Worth the Collection Hype?
Looking to add an epic battle set to your G.I. Joe collection?
We recently got our hands on the G.I. Joe Classified Series Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set, and it’s an impressive addition to the 6-inch scale line.
This action-packed set features the iconic commando Snake Eyes alongside a massive articulated polar bear that stands over 9 inches tall when upright. You can pose the bear on all fours or rearing up on its hind legs, creating dynamic scenes for your display shelf.
The bear even comes with an alternate growling head and battle-damaged shoulder panel for added realism.
Snake Eyes himself comes with 15 accessories including multiple hand options, weapons, and a cool M.A.S.S. Device catalytic element crystal in a clear container. The detail on both figures is impressive, with Snake Eyes featuring his classic design updated for modern collectors.
The articulation is excellent, allowing for numerous pose options. We especially liked creating scenes of Snake Eyes battling or evading the fearsome polar bear while on his mission to retrieve the red crystal from the Arctic.
Overview of G.I. Joe Classified Series #161, Snake Eyes & Polar Bear
Action figure collectors will find a real treat in this Classified Series set.
The Snake Eyes figure comes with an impressive 15 accessories, including multiple hand options and weaponry that let you create various combat poses. What makes this set special is the massive articulated polar bear companion that stands over 9 inches tall when posed on its hind legs. You can display the bear in different stances thanks to its multiple points of articulation.
The bear even includes two interchangeable head sculpts and a battle-damaged shoulder piece for customization. Snake Eyes features the classic ninja commando design but updated with modern detailing. The storyline involves Snake Eyes retrieving a red crystal catalytic element (included as an accessory) for the M.A.S.S. Device.
This #161 set comes in collector-friendly windowed packaging with character artwork and is expected to release on September 1, 2025. It’s perfect for displaying alone or alongside other G.I. Joe Classified figures.
Iconic Snake Eyes Character Design
The legendary commando comes to life in this Classified Series figure.
Snake Eyes’ design stays true to his iconic all-black look while adding modern details that fans will appreciate. You’ll notice the premium textures on his suit, with tactical webbing and armor panels that give him a realistic military appearance.
His sleek visor and ninja-inspired outfit maintain the mysterious aura that made him famous.
What’s impressive is how the figure balances nostalgia with contemporary styling. The proportions feel right, and the details on his gear are crisp. His weapons fit perfectly in his hands, and you can easily pose him in classic ninja stances thanks to the excellent articulation.
The design team clearly understood what makes Snake Eyes special. They kept his silent, brooding presence intact while enhancing the details that matter to collectors. When displayed alongside the intimidating polar bear, this set creates a striking visual that captures the essence of this beloved character.
Articulated Polar Bear Companion
The bear included in this set is a standout feature.
Standing over 9 inches tall, this articulated polar bear can be posed on all fours or rearing up on two legs for a more intimidating display. You’ll appreciate the flexibility in how you can arrange it alongside the Snake Eyes figure.
What makes this bear special is the attention to detail. The fur texturing looks realistic, and you get two interchangeable head options – a standard pose and a growling version that adds drama to your display. There’s also a swappable battle-damaged shoulder panel that tells a story of combat.
The bear’s joints are sturdy enough to hold poses reliably. You can create dynamic scenes where Snake Eyes is either fighting or befriending this Arctic predator. The size comparison between the 6-inch figure and the larger bear creates an impressive visual that adds value to your collection beyond just another human character.
Premium Detailing and Poseability
The attention to detail on this set is truly impressive.
The Snake Eyes figure features exceptional sculpting with tactical gear that looks realistic down to the smallest buckles and straps. You can pose him in countless action stances thanks to his multiple points of articulation in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles.
The polar bear is equally impressive with articulation that allows it to stand on all fours or rear up on hind legs, towering over 9 inches tall. You can swap between normal and growling head pieces depending on how threatening you want your display to look. The battle-damaged shoulder panel adds another level of customization.
What really stands out is how stable the figures remain in dynamic poses. Snake Eyes can hold his weapons convincingly while the bear maintains balance even in more aggressive stances. The three alternate hand sets for Snake Eyes let you customize his grip for different accessories or action poses.
Collectible Packaging and Numbering
Each box of this Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set comes with thoughtful details collectors will appreciate.
The windowed packaging lets you see the figures without opening it—perfect if you prefer to keep it mint in box. As #161 in the Classified Series, it holds a specific place in the collection sequence that helps track your G.I. Joe lineup.
The packaging includes special File Card Icons specific to Snake Eyes, plus original character artwork that looks great on display. The digital renders on the box show dynamic poses that give you ideas for your own displays.
You’ll notice the M.A.S.S. Device storyline is highlighted on the packaging, connecting this set to the broader G.I. Joe universe. The numbering system makes it easy to identify which figures you’re missing if you’re working on completing the full Classified Series collection.
Action-Packed Accessories
This Snake Eyes set truly shines when it comes to accessory count.
You get a whopping 15 accessories to enhance your play experience. The iconic ninja commando comes fully equipped with his signature weapons and tools that let you recreate classic battles or invent new missions.
The set includes one of the catalytic elements for the M.A.S.S. Device, adding a storyline component that ties into the broader G.I. Joe universe. But what really stands out is the articulated Polar Bear companion. This imposing creature comes with interchangeable parts – an alternate growling head and a battle-damaged shoulder panel that lets you customize its appearance.
The bear can be posed on all fours or standing upright where it towers over 9 inches tall. All accessories fit well in Snake Eyes’ hands or can be stored on his person, giving you plenty of display options without pieces getting lost or falling over. Everything is made with quality materials that match the premium feel of the figure itself.
Pros and Cons
When looking for action figures that truly stand out from the crowd, this Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set makes a strong impression. After spending some time with this set, I’ve noticed several advantages and a few drawbacks worth sharing before you make your purchase decision.
Pros
- Impressive Size & Scale: The polar bear stands over 9 inches tall and creates a commanding presence in any display. You’ll be amazed by how it towers over other figures.
- High Articulation: Both Snake Eyes and the polar bear feature excellent articulation that lets you create dynamic poses and action scenes.
- Accessory Value: With 15 accessories included, you get plenty of options for customizing your display. The M.A.S.S. Device catalytic element adds to the play value.
- Display-Ready Packaging: The windowed box lets you view the figures without opening, making it great for collectors who prefer to keep items mint in box.
- Quality Detailing: The updated classic design features premium paint applications and sculpting that faithfully captures Snake Eyes’ iconic look.
- Swappable Parts: The bear’s alternate growling head and battle-damaged shoulder panel add variety to your display options.
Cons
- Size Considerations: At 6 inches for Snake Eyes and over 9 inches for the bear, you’ll need substantial shelf space to display this set properly.
- Balance Issues: Some of the more dynamic poses might require additional support to maintain stability, especially for the bear on two legs.
- Price Point: As a deluxe set, you’ll pay more than for standard single figures in the Classified line.
- Limited Bear Articulation: While well-articulated for an animal figure, the polar bear has fewer points of articulation than the Snake Eyes figure.
Customer Sentiment
Looking at the G.I. Joe Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set, you’ll notice it’s a unique collector’s item that stands out in the Classified Series. Based on my experience with the figure, the attention to detail on both Snake Eyes and his polar bear companion is impressive. The 15 accessories, especially the M.A.S.S. Device Catalytic Element, add significant play value and display options.
While collector feedback is still emerging for this newer release, early reactions suggest fans appreciate the unexpected pairing of Snake Eyes with a polar bear. The 6-inch scale maintains consistency with other figures in the line, making it easy to integrate into existing collections. You’ll find the articulation allows for dynamic poses, though positioning both the figure and bear together might require some patience.
If you’re deciding whether to add this to your collection, consider the unique concept and accessory count as strong selling points.
The Battle for the M.A.S.S. Device
In this action-packed set, you’ll get to recreate one of the most iconic storylines from G.I. Joe lore.
The included red crystal catalytic element is a key component that both the Joes and Cobra are desperately seeking to power the M.A.S.S. Device. When you display Snake Eyes with his special containment canister, you can imagine him braving the Arctic conditions to retrieve this vital element before its radioactive effects take hold.
The attention to detail in this storyline-specific accessory is impressive. The crystal’s translucent red finish catches light beautifully, making it a standout piece among the 15 included accessories. You’ll appreciate how the containment canister can be held by different hand options that come with Snake Eyes.
What makes this set special is how it ties directly into the classic M.A.S.S. Device saga, giving you a tangible piece of that adventure. The polar bear adds dramatic tension to your display, representing the dangers Snake Eyes faces during his mission.
Conclusion
After spending time with the Classified Series Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set, I can confidently say it delivers a unique addition to any G.I. Joe collection.
The 6-inch figure comes with an impressive 15 accessories, including the M.A.S.S. Device Catalytic Element that adds storytelling potential to your display. The polar bear companion creates play possibilities you won’t find with standard figures.
The quality of articulation lets you pose Snake Eyes in dynamic stances, while the detailed paintwork shows attention to craft. Though the price point is higher than solo figures, the bear companion and accessory count justify the investment.
If you’re building a Classified Series collection, this set fills a distinctive niche.
Whether you’re a longtime collector or new to G.I. Joe figures, this pack offers solid value through its unique pairing and play options. Consider adding it to your display if you appreciate special character/companion combinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve spent some time with the new Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set from the G.I. Joe Classified Series, and I know many collectors have questions about this unique package. This FAQ addresses the most common questions I’ve encountered while testing and displaying this impressive Arctic-themed set.
What are the key features of the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear figure set?
The standout feature is the massive articulated Polar Bear that stands over 9 inches tall when posed on its hind legs. You can display the bear on all fours or in an intimidating upright stance.
The set includes Snake Eyes in a classic-inspired design that balances nostalgia with modern aesthetics. The M.A.S.S. Device catalytic element (red crystal) in a clear container adds story context and play value. Both the figure and bear feature premium detailing with the bear including an alternate growling head and a battle-damaged shoulder panel for customization options.
How does the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear figure compare to earlier Classified Series releases?
This Snake Eyes maintains the high quality of the Classified Series but brings a classic design sensibility compared to earlier, more modern interpretations. The articulation is consistent with other figures in the line, but this release stands out as a true value with the inclusion of the massive bear companion.
Unlike most single-figure releases, you’re getting two fully articulated figures (Snake Eyes and the Polar Bear) plus 15 accessories. The storyline connection to the M.A.S.S. Device also differentiates this from earlier releases by tying it to a broader collecting narrative.
What accessories are included with the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set from the G.I. Joe Classified Series?
The set comes with 15 character-inspired accessories:
- Bear trap with chain
- 3 alternate sets of hands for Snake Eyes
- M.A.S.S. collection canister
- Red catalytic element crystal in a clear container
- Combat knife
- Multiple weapon accessories
- Alternate growling head for the Polar Bear
- Swappable battle-damaged shoulder piece for the bear
This accessory count gives you plenty of display options and play scenarios involving Snake Eyes’ Arctic mission.
Is there an exclusive variant of the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear figure, and if so, what are the differences?
Currently, there is no exclusive variant of the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear set. This version (Classified Series #161) appears to be the standard release available across all retailers.
Hasbro sometimes releases store exclusives with alternate decos or additional accessories later in a product’s lifecycle, but as of now, this is the only version available. The collectible packaging features the standard Classified Series windowed box with figure-specific File Card icons, character artwork, and digital renders.
What articulation points are present in the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear figure from G.I. Joe Classified Series?
Snake Eyes features the premium articulation standard for the Classified Series, including:
- Ball-jointed head
- Ball-hinged shoulders
- Double-jointed elbows
- Hinged and swivel wrists
- Ab crunch
- Swivel waist
- Ball-jointed hips
- Thigh swivels
- Double-jointed knees
- Ankle hinges with rockers
The Polar Bear is similarly well-articulated with movable legs, head, and jaw. You can pose the bear on all fours or standing upright. Some complex poses might require additional support, especially for dynamic action scenes.
Are there any special collaborations or artists involved in the design of the Snake Eyes & Polar Bear figure?
While Hasbro hasn’t specifically highlighted any special collaborations for this particular set, the Classified Series team includes veteran designers with deep knowledge of G.I. Joe lore.
The packaging features original character artwork and digital renders created by Hasbro’s design team. The set continues the M.A.S.S. Device storyline that spans multiple Classified Series releases, showing the cohesive vision driving the current collection.
The updated classic design shows careful attention to honoring Snake Eyes’ iconic look while bringing modern detailing to satisfy both nostalgic collectors and newcomers to the line.
