This type of case (silcon skin) is probably the ultimate protection against drops. I had an older version of this case that was extensively drop tested onto tarmac, etc. and passed admirably. However, the protection offered by this newer style case may not be quite as good. That case was probably 4.5 stars and this one is only 4.
This version is "improved" by providing better access to the roller-ball and having less material at the top of the screen for clearance of the ambient light sensor and the proximity sensor; on the old one I had to get the scissors out! However, I think too much material has been removed, so that protection may be compromised. I think this case is more likely to come off when dropped (I may be wrong) and leaves the front of the Nexus just a little less protected. Protection is more important to me than a little awkwardness using the tracker-ball. It is also slippier than the old version.