On August 1st, Lego officially expanded its ever-popular Star Wars universe with a fresh wave of sets, poised to ignite the imagination of both young padawans and seasoned Jedi Masters. Leading this charge is a new entry into the coveted Ultimate Collector Series (UCS), proving that some of the most formidable vehicles in the galaxy can indeed be built brick by brick.
The Ultimate Collector Series: A New Standard of Detail
At the heart of this galactic release stands the AT-ST Walker, an instantly recognizable All Terrain Scout Transport, notorious for its wobbly, yet surprisingly effective, “chicken walker” gait. This isn`t just any AT-ST; it`s the latest addition to Lego`s prestigious Ultimate Collector Series. With 1,513 meticulously crafted pieces, this set offers a level of detail and complexity previously reserved for grander, often pricier, Star Destroyers and Millennium Falcons.
What makes this particular AT-ST a standout? Beyond its impressive brick count and accurate depiction, it carries a rather unique distinction within the current UCS lineup: a price tag of $200. This makes it the most accessible entry point into the premium UCS club for those looking to experience the zenith of Lego engineering without necessarily needing to mortgage their own hyperspace lanes. Designed for experienced builders aged 18 and up, it features interactive elements such as an openable top hatch revealing a detailed cockpit, a rotating head, viewport shutters, and articulated legs, allowing for dynamic posing that truly captures its on-screen persona.
The AT-ST`s design, often affectionately dubbed the “chicken walker,” presents a unique challenge for Lego designers, requiring a delicate balance between structural integrity and the iconic, slightly awkward articulation that fans have come to love. This UCS rendition appears to master that balance with aplomb.
Beyond the Walker: A Galaxy of Diverse Builds
While the AT-ST UCS might be the flagship, Lego`s August 1st launch introduced a total of nine new sets, catering to a broader spectrum of Star Wars enthusiasts. For those who prefer their builds with a touch more personality, two large buildable character figures made their debut:
- Wicket the Ewok (1,010 pieces, $120): An adorable, highly detailed rendition of the brave little inhabitant of Endor, perfect for adding a touch of forest charm to any collection.
- K-2SO Security Droid (845 pieces, $90): The sardonic, reprogrammed Imperial droid from Rogue One receives a fittingly angular and imposing model, ready to deliver dry wit and tactical insights from your shelf.
The release also includes a variety of starships and battle scenes, such as the Republic Juggernaut and the V-19 Torrent Starfighter, ensuring there`s something for every preference. Notably, the Epic Battle Set offers a bundled deal that includes the Battle of Felucia Separatist MTT and the 327th Star Corps Clone Troopers Battle Pack, sweetened with a bonus miniature Millennium Falcon polybag – a nod to the savvy collector looking for value.
Even Jango Fett`s Firespray-Class Starship, a previous UCS release, saw its availability broaden beyond the Lego Store exclusivity, now obtainable through major retailers. This strategic move reflects Lego`s understanding of market demand and accessibility for popular sets.
The Philosophy of Ultimate Collecting: More Than Just Toys
The Ultimate Collector Series has evolved into a cornerstone of Lego`s appeal to adult fans. These aren`t merely “toys”; they are intricate models, feats of engineering, and tangible pieces of pop culture history. The UCS range speaks to a growing demographic of adults who find solace, challenge, and immense satisfaction in the methodical process of bringing these iconic vehicles and scenes to life, brick by painstaking brick.
For many, collecting UCS sets is an investment – not just financially, though some sets do appreciate significantly – but an investment in a hobby that fosters creativity, patience, and a deep connection to beloved fictional universes. It`s a delightful irony that what often begins as a childhood pastime evolves into a sophisticated pursuit involving hundreds, even thousands, of tiny plastic elements.
A Glimpse into the Wider UCS Galaxy
The AT-ST Walker joins a pantheon of legendary UCS sets, ranging from colossal starships to iconic ground vehicles. Its $200 price point makes it an appealing entry, especially when compared to its brethren:
- Jango Fett`s Firespray-Class Starship (2,970 pieces): $300
- TIE Interceptor Starfighter (1,931 pieces): $230
- Luke Skywalker`s Landspeeder (1,890 pieces): $240
- X-Wing Starfighter (1,949 pieces): $240
- Millennium Falcon (7,541 pieces): A staggering $815 (MSRP often higher)
- AT-AT Walker (6,785 pieces): A towering $1,148 (MSRP was $850)
These figures illustrate the spectrum of complexity and cost within the UCS line, positioning the new AT-ST as an excellent “starter” or companion piece for those venturing into or expanding their high-end Lego Star Wars collection. It represents a commitment from Lego to not only push the boundaries of brick design but also to ensure that the joy of ultimate collecting remains attainable for a wider audience.
Conclusion: Building the Future of Fandom
Lego`s latest Star Wars release, spearheaded by the Ultimate Collector Series AT-ST Walker, is more than just a product launch; it`s a testament to the enduring power of the Star Wars saga and Lego`s mastery in translating that magic into physical form. By offering a mix of accessible UCS models, diverse character builds, and strategic bundles, Lego continues to solidify its position at the intersection of play, display, and sophisticated collecting. Whether you`re a builder reliving childhood fantasies or a dedicated collector seeking the next display masterpiece, the Force is undoubtedly strong with these new sets.
Callum Darby