This set was last released in 2003, so it's not new to most people. However, until recently, the set was listed on the U.S. playmobil site even though it never seemed in stock for purchase.
As I wasn't familiar with the playmo lines prior to 2009, the snowscape struck me as different than any set that I had seen from playmobil. So, thinking that it might be fun, I signed up for email notification if it ever became available. Around last November, they must have cleaned out the warehouse and found a couple of this set. I bought it for Christmas.
What a fun cold-weather set for the kids! We've had lots of snow days (not to mention a white Christmas!) in Atlanta, USA this year. So, this set has had extra appeal.
The accessories are different from anything else the kids get to play with such as a ICE!, grappling hook, chainsaw, video camera, snowshoes, snow poles, boots and puffy coats and hats. Oh, and the good-sized dinosaur (allosaurus?) can be posed (arms, legs, and open/close mouth); can hold many of the accessories; can eat the explorers (or at least their limbs) and/or the other accessories (many actually fit into its open mouth). BONUS!
Alas, after many threatening assaults, the dino invariably becomes sweet and friendly and simply wishes to engage the explorers in a foot race. After a good sleep, however, the terror returns. Rinse and repeat.
tlc