G.I. Joe Blizzard Tiger Force (EU)
About this item
Blizzard is the Tiger Force arctic attack specialist, originally a cold-weather driver released in 1988 for the US market. The European Tiger Force version from 1990 swaps his white winter camo for the distinctive tiger-stripe pattern in yellow and brown — a dramatic repaint that makes him one of the more visually striking figures in the sub-line.
European Tiger Force figures were produced in much smaller quantities than their US counterparts and were distributed exclusively through European retailers. Blizzard is particularly sought after because his original mold already had great sculpt detail, and the tiger-stripe deco gives him a completely different identity. Complete loose figures in good condition are genuinely hard to find.
When buying, check for the full accessory complement: his snow shoes, missile launcher, and two missiles. The yellow paint on Tiger Force figures is prone to discoloration and rubbing, so inspect the torso and legs carefully. Tight joints and unbroken crotch pieces are key — the O-ring tends to degrade after 35 years. A carded example on a European Tiger Force card back is a serious grail piece.