LEGO's Star Wars Journey: When Did They Start?

LEGO has always been a favorite among toy enthusiasts and fans of pop culture. One of LEGO's most successful partnerships is with Star Wars, a franchise that has captivated audiences for decades. Many LEGO fans wonder, 'What year did they start making Star Wars Star Wars sets?'

Origins of LEGO Star Wars

LEGO began producing Star Wars sets in 1999, coinciding with the release of the highly anticipated Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace. This strategic move by LEGO positioned them perfectly to capture the growing fanbase of George Lucas's space opera. The initial wave of LEGO Star Wars sets was seen as an extension of the original Star Wars movies. Though not as extensively detailed as the sets you might find today, these early releases promised something special for Star Wars enthusiasts.

Early Sets and Collectibles

Starting in 1999, LEGO introduced a series of collectible sets that captured iconic moments from The Phantom Menace. From assembling the Jedi training dueling arena to building intricate clones, these sets allowed fans to engage with the Star Wars universe in a tangible way. They included elements like the Naboo Royal Cruiser, which captured the excitement of the film's key scenes and moments from the planet of Naboo.

Expansion and Growth

After the initial success, LEGO continued to expand their Star Wars line, introducing more sets with each new installment of the Star Wars saga. In 2002, with the release of Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, there were numerous collectible sets released to match the new film's release. These sets included everything from the notorious Geonosis Battle to the redesign of Anakin Skywalker's Podracer, which captured every detail and movement.

Modern Era and Diversification

The success of the early sets paved the way for a modern era of LEGO Star Wars, which includes a wide variety of collectible sets, minifigures, and specially designed elements. From the iconic Millennium Falcon to the intricate battle scenes of the Skywalker Saga, LEGO's Star Wars line has grown to accommodate fans of all ages and experience levels. In recent years, LEGO has expanded its offerings to include animated minifigures, which have become a fan favorite, allowing for creative play and storytelling.

Conclusion

LEGO's introduction of Star Wars sets in 1999 marked the beginning of a long and successful collaboration with one of the most beloved franchises in pop culture. Starting from a small series of collectible sets based on The Phantom Menace, LEGO's Star Wars line has grown to become a standalone collection cherished by many fans. Whether you are a nostalgic toy collector or a new fan curious about the franchise's history, the early years of LEGO Star Wars are a fascinating journey into the intersection of two iconic brands.