Introduction
I’ve been waiting on this figure for what feels like forever. From the moment the digital renders dropped, the Phantom Corps Special Operations Detachment Trooper shot straight to the top of my “most anticipated” list. Seeing the paint masters and prototypes at JoeFest earlier this year only added to the hype. Now that this troop builder is finally in hand — I’m happy to report he doesn’t disappoint. Though, I do have plenty of thoughts.
Fresh Monkey Fiction and BigBad Workshop continue to impress with their Operation: Monster Force line — a blend of tactical realism, supernatural lore, and collector-focused design. The Phantom Corps trooper, paired with the Defense Loadout set, takes that same philosophy and delivers a highly customizable figure loaded with detail, gear, and story.
Packaging & Lore
The presentation here is top-notch. The magnetic flap box opens to reveal a full synopsis of the Phantom Corps backstory — officially known as the JSOK 121st Special Operations Detachment (or Phantom Corps). Once a first-strike unit, the lore reveals they were wiped out in combat and later resurrected by the Forgotten King.
The packaging also highlights the other figures in the Season Zero lineup, serving as a great entry point for newcomers trying to piece together this growing universe. It’s stylish, lore-driven, and feels premium right out of the box.
Design, Accessories & Customization
This release shines when it comes to gear options and modularity. The Phantom Corps trooper features a multicam paint scheme that looks excellent in hand and fits perfectly alongside Valaverse Action Force or G.I. Joe Classified figures.
Included are two head sculpts — one clean-cut caucasian, one black.
The figure comes armed with a suppressed AR-style submachine gun, a Betta-style sidearm, a knife and sheath, and a wealth of pouches, adapters, and blank plates to customize the chest and belt. While the included weapons are detailed and fit the aesthetic perfectly, it’s worth noting that for the price point, an additional rifle would’ve really rounded out the core loadout.
The Phantom Corps Defense Loadout kicks things up another level. It includes a machine gun with detachable magazine and underbarrel grenade launcher, an M4 with a mounted master-key, a chainsaw, and a ballistic shield. You also get a soft multicam helmet, NVG setup, headset, ballistic mask, and a second vest for alternate display options. The customization potential here is incredible — easily one of the line’s biggest strengths.
Articulation & Build Quality
Articulation is solid across the board. The figure features pinless double joints, butterfly shoulders, a diaphragm cut, and drop-down hips for wide poses. The vest can limit ab crunch slightly .The range of motion in the head and arms makes it easy to achieve expressive tactical poses, and the new holster design feels like a big step forward compared to earlier figures in the line.
The figure’s build quality feels sturdy, though as with most Monster Force releases, some parts can be a bit tight out of the box — especially when swapping heads or gear. A quick heat-up fixes that, and once adjusted, everything fits together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Phantom Corps S.O.D. Trooper is another hit for the Operation: Monster Force line. It’s a top-tier troop builder that blends military precision with a supernatural edge. The paint apps are sharp, the sculpt detail is crisp, and the modular loadout system keeps things endlessly fun for customizers.
Pros:
- Exceptional sculpting and paintwork
- Tons of customization options
- Fantastic compatibility with Valaverse and G.I. Joe Classified figures
- Defense Loadout adds huge play/display value
Cons:
- High price point for a single figure
- Base trooper could’ve used an additional rifle
- Would’ve loved an extra black head sculpt for more display variety
If you’re interested in picking up a few Phantom Corps troopers you can still get them at www.bigbadtoystore.com, and even www.gridironprops.com
Now, I just need that Phantom Corps Command Unit convention exclusive to round out my squad….