With a galaxy far, far away full of sets to choose from, picking the right one can feel like flying through the Death Star's trenches because one wrong move, and it’s game over.
Whether you're a Jedi Master with a collection to rival the Rebel Alliance, a fan of the good ol' days of Star Wars, or just on a quest for the ultimate build, this guide is your lightsaber in the dark.
The History of LEGO Star Wars: From 1999 to Today
It all started in 1999 when LEGO and Lucasfilm joined forces, launching a series that would become a cornerstone for both brands. The inaugural sets, like the X-Wing Starfighter and the landspeeder, were instant hits, bridging generations of fans and builders.What started as a couple of blocky spaceships quickly turned into an unstoppable force (pun very much intended). Over the years, the sets got bigger, badder, and way more detailed, pushing building techniques to the limit and making collectors lose their minds (and shelf space). From the clunky bricks of the early 2000s to today’s hyper-detailed, display-worthy masterpieces, LEGO Star Wars hasn’t just evolved, it has simply taken off right across the world.
Key Milestones in LEGO Star Wars History
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1999: Launch of the first LEGO Star Wars sets, coinciding with the release of "The Phantom Menace."
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2007: Introduction of the Ultimate Collector's Series (UCS), starting with the LEGO Millennium Falcon, setting new standards for complexity and detail.
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2011: Release of the Death Star set, featuring multiple scenes from the original trilogy.
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2020: Celebration of the 20th anniversary with special edition sets and minifigures.
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2023: Launch of the mid-scale LEGO Starship Collection, offering detailed models like the Millennium Falcon at a more accessible size.
So, which LEGO Star Wars set should you buy first?
Picking the right set? It depends who you are.
For Kids & Families: Engage in fun, interactive builds that offer both playability and a touch of nostalgia.
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LEGO Star Wars 501st Clone Troopers™ Battle Pack 75345
Lead your own 501st Clone Troopers unit with this set featuring 4 minifigures and a buildable AV-7 anti-vehicle cannon. -
LEGO Yoda's Jedi Starfighter™ 75360
Team up with Master Yoda and R2-D2 in this starfighter equipped with an opening cockpit and spring-loaded shooters.
For Collectors: Delve into detailed, display-worthy models that capture iconic moments from the Star Wars saga.
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LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon™ 75375
Recreate the legendary starship with authentic details, perfect for display. -
LEGO Star Wars Captain Rex Helmet Set for Adults 75349
Pay homage to the 501st Legion Clone Commander with this collectible helmet model.
For Clone Wars Fans: Immerse yourself in sets that bring the animated series to life.
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LEGO Star Wars AT-TE™ Walker 75337
Recreate the Battle of Utapau with this set featuring multiple minifigures, including Commander Cody. -
LEGO Star Wars TIE Bomber Buildable Toy 75347
Build the iconic TIE Bomber with features like an opening cockpit and torpedo-dropping function.
Types of LEGO Star Wars Sets
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Starships and Vehicles: From the nimble X-Wings to the formidable TIE Bombers, these sets let you pilot your favorite ships from the saga. For instance, the LEGO Star Wars TIE Bomber Buildable Toy features an opening cockpit and torpedo-dropping function, bringing the Empire's firepower to your fingertips.
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Playsets and Dioramas: Relive pivotal moments with sets that recreate scenes from the movies. The LEGO Star Wars Boarding the Tantive IV Set allows you to reenact the iconic opening scene from "A New Hope," complete with minifigures like Darth Vader and Captain Antilles.
3. Character Builds and Helmets: Showcase your allegiance with buildable models of beloved characters and their gear. The LEGO Star Wars Captain Rex Helmet offers a detailed replica of the 501st Legion commander's helmet, perfect for display.
4. Battle Packs and Minifigure Sets: Assemble your army with packs that include multiple Lego Star Wars minifigures and accessories. The LEGO Star Wars 501st Clone Troopers™ lets you lead your own squad of clone troopers into battle.
LEGO Star Wars Display Pieces (Because Not All Sets Are Meant to Be Played With)
Some sets are built for play, but others? They’re pure works of art. If you want a show-stopping centerpiece, check these out:
1. LEGO Star Wars R2-D2
The little guy. The legend. This buildable R2-D2 has articulating parts and all those small mechanical details that make it feel super authentic. Put it next to your tv, on a bookshelf, or in your office, it demands attention without being obnoxious.
2. LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon
Ok, so it’s not the massive UCS Falcon, but that’s actually way better. This one’s sleek, compact, and the perfect middle ground for anyone who wants the iconic Falcon vibe without turning their house into a LEGO theme park. It’s the perfect display model if you’re low on space but still want something that screams I’m a Star Wars fan from across the room. You get all the recognizable details without committing to a full-on LEGO shrine. It’s the Falcon, just on a “let’s keep it cool and manageable” level.
3. LEGO The Mandalorian™ Helmet
Snap those pieces together, and boom, you’ve got Mando’s iconic helmet, minus the constant bounty hunter drama. Stick it on your desk, your shelf, or right next to your pathetic excuse for a credit stash. Either way, it’s gonna steal the show.
No matter which set you choose, one thing is for sure, you’re about to embark on an intergalactic building adventure. May the Force (and the bricks) be with you!