Star Wars and the Dark Side of Lego
Summary
In this article, we explore the impact of Star Wars on the Lego brand. We examine how the introduction of licensed properties and computer games has transformed Lego from a tool for building and creativity to a virtual mix of CG and AI. We also discuss the consequences of this shift and its impact on the Lego community.
Table of Contents
- The Evolution of Lego
- The Rise of Licensed Properties
- From Building Toys to Computer Games
- The Consequence-Free World of Lego Films
- The Impact on the Lego Community
- Conclusion
The Evolution of Lego
Once upon a time, Legos were the ultimate DIY tool, providing an unfettered tool for building and creating. The focus was on techniques and mindstorms, which expanded the possibility space of what you could make with Lego. It used to be about the bricks, but that was before the dark times, before the Empire.
The Rise of Licensed Properties
In 1999, Lego released a line of Phantom Menace branded toys, marking the first time the Lego group licensed another property. From there, Lego went on to license IP from Spongebob to Avatar to Ben 10 to Lone Ranger, all with specialized parts that betray the ideal of infinite interlockability.
From Building Toys to Computer Games
The introduction of licensed properties also marked a shift in focus for Lego, from building toys to computer games. In 2005, the Lego Star Wars game was released, followed by games based on Harry Potter, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Batman, Pirates of the Caribbean, Marvel, and Lord of the Rings.
The Consequence-Free World of Lego Films
The CG cutscenes in these games begat a genre of stand-alone Lego films that are even more annoying than their original IPs, such as Ninjago. The parodic elements are toothless because the rights holder gets to sign off on it, and the action is consequence-free because everything is made out of brick.
The Impact on the Lego Community
The tactile creativity tools have morphed into a purely virtual mix of CG and AI, and this shift has had a significant impact on the Lego community. While some still enjoy the licensed properties and computer games, others feel that the focus on virtual play has come at the expense of the original spirit of Lego.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the impact of Star Wars on Lego has been significant, transforming the brand from a tool for building and creativity to a virtual mix of CG and AI. While this shift has brought new fans to the brand, it has also alienated some of the original Lego community who feel that the original spirit of Lego has been lost.
