Features Removed from Modern TARDIS Types Compared to Classic Types

Introduction

In the rich and complex world of Doctor Who, the Time And Relative Dimension In Space (TARDIS) serves not just as a means of travel, but as a symbol of the diverse adventures faced by the Doctor. The Type 40 TARDIS, used predominantly in the early seasons by the Ninth and Tenth Doctors (specifically the Nine’s prized possession), marked an era of a fairly simple yet functional vessel. However, as the series progressed, the design of the TARDIS evolved. This article delves into the features that were stripped or significantly altered in the modern incarnations of the TARDIS, especially in contrast to the classic Type 40 TARDIS.

Reconfigurable Interior

One of the notable differences between the classic Type 40 and the more modern TARDIS types is the reconfigurable interior. In NuWho, when Doctor Ten introduced Martha Jones to the TARDIS, he mentioned that once the Doctor leaves, the interior can essentially be reconfigured to its original state. This feature, while retained in the classic TARDIS, seems to be less emphasized in modern craft. While the classic TARDIS could morph between various rooms and environments, modern variations may be more fixed in their design and layout. This change reflects the evolving narrative and design themes of the series.

Advanced Control Systems

While the classic TARDIS largely relied on intuitive controls and the experience of the Doctor, modern TARDISes seem to have incorporated more sophisticated control systems. These advanced systems might provide more automated and precise navigation, making the TARDIS more efficient and user-friendly. However, these advancements also come at the potential cost of reducing the TARDIS’s unique, customizable nature that made it a companion to the Doctor for so long.

Enhanced Security Measures

With time, the TARDIS has evolved beyond a simple, single-man TARDIS into a vessel that could accommodate a wider range of companions. This growth has likely led to the implementation of more advanced security protocols. In earlier types like the Type 40, the TARDIS was more of a mobile base, and its defenses were managed by the Doctor’s intimate knowledge and specific key. Modern TARDISes, on the other hand, might have a more sophisticated security system, reducing the reliance on a single key for entry and control. This change enhances the TARDIS’s safety but removes a part of its traditional charm.

Conclusion

The evolution of the TARDIS through its types reflects not only technological and narrative advancements but also the changing thematic aspects of the series. While modern TARDISes have embraced more advanced and user-friendly designs, they come with a trade-off of reduced flexibility and reconfigurability compared to previous incarnations. These changes highlight the evolving nature of the TARDIS and its role in the Doctor Who lore.

Keywords

TARDIS, Type 40, modern TARDIS, Martha Jones, Doctor Who