G.I. Joe Classified Series #165, Snake Eyes V4, Collectible
✅ PROS
- Pinless joint construction on arms and legs for seamless, clean visual lines
- Includes both a full-length katana and a shorter wakizashi with multiple carry options
- Updated V4 design with removable tactical vest and holster rig that doesn't restrict torso articulation
❌ CONS
- Black-on-black color scheme makes some sculpted detail hard to see in-hand
- No alternate unmasked head or faceplate included for display variety
- Stand is a simple flight-style peg, not a proper display base
The Verdict
If you’ve been collecting the G.I. Joe Classified Series since wave one, you know the drill: every Snake Eyes release gets snatched up fast. The #165 V4 version — the one from the early 2000s Valor vs. Venom era — is no exception. With a 4.7-star average across 235 ratings, this is clearly hitting the mark for most collectors. But is it a must-buy or a pass? Here’s the breakdown.
What’s in the Box
You get the figure itself, a removable tactical vest, a holster rig that straps across the chest, two swords (a full-length katana and a shorter wakizashi), two knife sheaths, and a small display stand. The paint work is clean with no slop on the silver accents on the chest emblem and belt buckle. The black-on-black scheme is the defining aesthetic here — it’s sleek, menacing, and very much Snake Eyes — but it does swallow some of the finer sculpted textures unless you’ve got strong lighting.
Articulation and Build Quality
The Classified line’s hallmark is its articulation, and V4 Snake Eyes delivers. The pinless joints on the arms and legs are seamless, giving the figure a more polished look than earlier releases. The torso has a solid crunch range, and the double-jointed elbows and knees let you hit deep crouching poses — essential for any ninja display.
The ball-jointed hips are sturdy and hold poses well without loosening over time. One detail worth noting: the shoulder pads are soft plastic, so they don’t restrict arm movement, and the vest can be removed entirely if you prefer the sleeker look. The holster rig sits snug without interfering with the double-jointed torso.
What Buyers Are Saying
Most of the 235 ratings are overwhelmingly positive. One common thread in the reviews is how well the figure captures the V4 design’s essence while modernizing it. A top-rated review says, “The detail on this figure is insane — the textures on the suit are perfect, and the articulation is the best in the line.” Another buyer notes, “Finally got a Snake Eyes that doesn’t feel like a repaint. This one stands out.”
Criticism is minimal but worth noting. Some buyers mention the lack of a display base being a missed opportunity, and a few note the black-on-black paint makes the figure harder to appreciate in dimmer display cases. One reviewer put it plainly: “It looks great, but you need good lighting to see all the sculpt work.”
Where It Falls Short
This is a premium-priced collectible, and at that price point, the omissions are noticeable. No alternate head sculpt is the biggest miss — even a masked variant with different visor optics would have added display value. The included stand is essentially a clear flight peg, which does nothing for dynamic ground poses. If you want a proper display base, you’ll need to track down a third-party option.
The holster rig, while functional, can pop off during heavy posing. It’s a minor annoyance, but if you’re the type to fiddle with figures regularly, you’ll find yourself reattaching it more than you’d like.
Who Should Buy This
- Completionist collectors who need every Snake Eyes variant in the Classified line — this is a distinct enough design to justify the shelf space.
- Valor vs. Venom era fans who have nostalgia for this specific look from the early 2000s.
- Articulation enthusiasts who want a ninja figure that can hold dramatic, dynamic poses without compromising stability.
Skip it if you already own the earlier Classified Snake Eyes releases and don’t care about the V4-specific aesthetic differences. The core articulation and build quality are consistent with the line’s standard; the V4’s appeal is purely in the design change.
FAQ
Is this figure worth the price if I’m new to Classified Series? Yes, if you want a definitive Snake Eyes. It’s a solid entry point with all the articulation and accessories you’d expect. But if you’re just looking for “a” Snake Eyes, the earlier #001 release is often cheaper on the secondary market.
Does the figure come with any display stand? A basic clear flight peg is included, but it’s not a proper display base. You’ll want a separate stand for dynamic poses.
Can the vest and holster be removed? Yes. Both are removable, and the figure looks great in either configuration. The vest is soft plastic and won’t damage the underlying torso paint.
The Verdict
Buy it if you appreciate the V4 design, want a top-tier ninja figure for your display, or collect the Classified line seriously. Skip it if you’re content with your current Snake Eyes or if the black-on-black aesthetic doesn’t excite you.
Rating: 4.6/5 — A strong entry in the Classified line with excellent articulation and a distinctive look, held back only by minor accessory omissions.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.