Take a look at step 45 here:
Notice in particular the use of two red 1x2 plates underneath the 2x2 plate, instead of simply stacking two 2x2 plates on top of each other. As far as I can tell, this is done because there are only two studs underneath, and the 1x2 plate has more grip than half a 2x2 plate. I don't think I've seen that done in any official LEGO sets that I have put together in the past.
The grip above the 1x2 plate (onto the underside of the 2x2 plate) would be the same as if two 2x2 plates were stacked, but I think the presence of the second 1x2 plate, and the fact that that is up a bit higher, makes it so that the whole bit that is added in step 45 is less likely to come off.
Do you think that is why it's built this way?
Notice in particular the use of two red 1x2 plates underneath the 2x2 plate, instead of simply stacking two 2x2 plates on top of each other. As far as I can tell, this is done because there are only two studs underneath, and the 1x2 plate has more grip than half a 2x2 plate. I don't think I've seen that done in any official LEGO sets that I have put together in the past.
The grip above the 1x2 plate (onto the underside of the 2x2 plate) would be the same as if two 2x2 plates were stacked, but I think the presence of the second 1x2 plate, and the fact that that is up a bit higher, makes it so that the whole bit that is added in step 45 is less likely to come off.
Do you think that is why it's built this way?