Tuesday 28 Nov 2006

Six Highly Effective Habits of Star Wars…

A long time ago in a galaxy far far away… we all know these immortal words. We have all witnessed the greatness of the Star Wars saga, it has changed us. It changed our perception on science-fiction, it changed our perception on aliens and it changed our perception on loyalty and trust. The epic films did a lot to inspire the uprising of science-fiction based films in Hollywood, they also made sci-fi “cool,” thus bringing it into mainstream culture and exposing it’s awesomeness upon the world…

The story line of the films did a lot towards teaching young and old about values and trust; honour and dishonour; love and lust; and, most importantly, good verses evil. They are teachings that, no matter how old the film becomes, will still hold true until the end of time. It is no wonder that the films have been such an enormous success, they encapsulate all of this, fused in between action, romance and drama.

Using your imagination with Lego

For over 40 years Lego has been able to find it’s way into the home. Starting as a simple toy that encouraged children to use their imagination to construct almost anything, from houses to cars, slot machines to spaceships. I’m sure the makers of Lego had no idea just how big their toy would become. Over the years the brand has gone from strength to strength, now appealing to their younger market (Pludo) and the older (Technics). The perfect vehicle for creative thinking and limitless possibilities.

The perfect marriage

So, if I can build just about anything with my Lego, why can’t I build exact replicas of Schumacker’s F-1 car, or the Taj Mahal. It seemed like the perfect opportunity for Lego to hook up with ol’ Lucas and create what must be one of the most enjoyable games I have played this year. The Star Wars universe is brought to life superbly with Lego!

Lego Star Wars covers the first three episodes of the saga: The Phantom Menace; Attack of the Clones; and Revenge of the Sith. In what I think is a good move, they have decided to stick to the story line of the films to the absolute tee. Every little detail has been carried forth into the Lego world, from the fight scene between Darth Maul and Qui-Gon to the pregnant Queen Amidala giving birth to her two offspring, Luke and Laya. Each mission reminds the player of the good times in the movie and you’ll often find yourself cracking up, watching this recreation in the Lego world, and yes, they do play on the fact that the characters are made of Lego all the time.