"So I had an idea for a suggestion... After the AT-AT falls, but before the Snowspeeders blow it up.. How about a brief "De-shielding effect" on it. Kinda like when predator de-cloaks from invisible. But briefer and more subtle, but enough to show that its shield was more than just tough metal. (Not talking Droideka here mind!)"
That's kinda where I was trying to head on page 739. Prepare to be "schooled" from the Wookieepedia.
I still think it's a good idea.