If by "forward and backward" you mean it's turning around on the head, then all headpieces (that don't continue over the back or front, of course) do that. They don't lock into place.
I don't think they actually do. They probably just threw it in (or not in, as the case may be) for a touch of realism.
(Because, as we all know, the one main thing Power Miners has is realism.)
If it was that big a risk they could've made them not as insanely sharp-looking instead of using mushy easily-scraped soft plastic. Lots of LEGO weapons are hard plastic but with slightly rounded ends; it wouldn't be much of a leap.
Well it is LEGO.
After seeing that review, I may consider buying Flord for the parts. Though I think I'll wait until after I see summer sets to decide, since I wouldn't want to buy him then have another, better set with the same amount of (or more) good pieces.
I must buy this set.
I don't really care about their faces since I'd either be keeping their helmets on or using their equipment elsewhere.
These guys kick the crud out of the Jango fig I have, anyway.
I'd noticed that too, but I figured everyone else had noticed too so i didn't bother bringing it up.
Though it looks like only the Outpost attaches so far, and isn't so much an obstacle as just an addition.
I still think it's great how they included the little course in the temple, though. Axes, step-poles, spikes, lava/fire, and rotating spikes. Entirely unnecessary, but a nice touch.