When looking for the ideal set to add to a growing collection of Star Wars building sets, it is easy to focus on the new releases for 2016 and ideas from Episode 7. A different approach, however, is to look backwards at some of the older sets that might provide scenes, vehicles and characters that you are missing, or perhaps had not even considered. The 2013 range of LEGO Star Wars sets provides a great selection of battle scenes, ships and other models from a range of sources. Many of the following models are inspired by the prequel films – particularly Attack of the Clones – but there are also unusual ideas from the original series, models from The Clone Wars TV series and a couple from the video-games.
2013 LEGO sets from the Star Wars Prequels and TV Series
Lego Star Wars 75012 BARC Speeder with Sidecar Set
The prequels are a great source of inspiration for younger players that do not have depth of feeling towards the stories and characters as their parents and there are plenty of LEGO Star Wars sets that take key characters and situations and turn them into fun building sets. The Lego Star Wars BARC Speeder with Sidecar, from the Clone Wars is a great starting point because it immediately looks like a look of fun – as it provides the chance to build two high-speed vehicles for a chase scene – and it includes notable characters like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Captain Rex.
The BARC speeder is a sleek, interesting build with a swivelling side car for the secondary character and deadly flick missiles. These missiles are vital for stopping the Separatist Droids on their own, smaller Separatist speeder and Obi-wan also has his lightsaber as back-up for when he catches up with the enemy.
LEGO Star Wars Clone Troopers vs Droidekas 75000 Set
Episode II: Attack of the Clones is the origin point of many of the sets that can be found in the 2013 LEGO Star Wars range because of the battles and characters, and one set that captures this brilliantly is the LEGO Star Wars Clone Troopers vs Droidekas building set. The main build of this set is the command station for the Clone Commander mini-figure, where he can stand guard and watch the landscape for any advancing enemies.
There are 2 rolling droidekas included in this set that could be a problem if they get too close. Luckily, the Commander has a pair of electrobinoculars to help him spot these droids and he can quickly command the Clone trooper to fire on them with the hidden flick missiles. The command station has opening doors so it should also provide enough safety for the troops during any attacks.
LEGO Star Wars Corporate Alliance Tank Droid 75015 Set
Another way to take control of a vital battle is to use a tough machine to crush the enemy and handle any tough terrain. This can be a big problem, however, when that battle-ready machine belongs to the enemy and not to our heroes.
The LEGO Star Wars Corporate Alliance Tank Droid is an attractive 380 piece set from Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones, that also happens to be the pride of the Separatist forces. It is built to efficiently deal with the Jedi Knights and their clone troops and the massive tires and flick missiles are a big problem for the included Clone Trooper mini-figure. To make matters worse, Jango Fett and a Battle Droid are also on the scene. This is one of the toughest battles going in this 2013 range because the odd are in the Separatists favor and it is one of those situations where reinforcements from other sets may be required.
LEGO Star Wars Homing Spider Droid 75016 Set
The prospect of using a homing spider droid in battle, or fighting against one, won’t be unfamiliar to Star Wars fans that have been browsing the recent additions to the line. However, there is also a LEGO Star Wars Homing Spider Droid building set from 2013 that offers a slightly different approach with alternative mini-figures.
This scary droid from Star Wars Episode2, is just as interactive and menacing as the newer version as is has articulated legs to help it roam the landscape, a rotating head for great views of the enemy and enough firepower with the elevating gun and flick missiles to do some serious damage. On the ground, this attack is being fended off by Stass Allie and a Clone Trooper, who also have two Super Battle Droids to contend with. Use the light-saber and blaster rifle to take down the spindly legs and hold off the attack.
LEGO Star Wars AT-TE 75019 Set
Much like the terrifying homing spider droid, the AT-TE fighters are another weaponized droid from this Star Wars universe that make the battle much harder, but provide fans with interesting new approaches to the fight and great building sets. The 2013 LEGO Star Wars AT-TE is designed to dominate the scene with its size, moving parts and the range of weapons at the rider’s disposal.
Open up the cockpit to let the mini-figure climb aboard and then take aim on any enemy that gets in the way with the two flick missiles or the rotating top-mounted projectile cannon. This model also has a lifting handle to help players carry it around, although one of the additional bonuses here is the use of posable legs so it looks as though the model is walking. Characters on the ground, meanwhile, can attempt to fight back with the blasters, light-sabers and thermal detonators.
LEGO Star Wars Republic Gunship 75021 Set
These droids are great fun but sometimes there is nothing like a good old-fashioned spacecraft to send off into an aerial battle. There is nothing better for intense Attack of the Clone battle scenes than the LEGO Star Wars Republic Gunship building set because not only does it have plenty of features and weapons for a great fight, there are lots of minifigure characters to choose from.
The ship has an opening cockpit, doors to the rear and side for easier access to the weapons and any cargo and a lifting handle for maneuverability. Once airborne, the characters can man the four gun turrets and fire any of the eight missile launchers so make sure that the enemy is easily defeated. These characters include vital figures from the films, such as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker and Padme Amidala, but there is also a Clone Trooper Captain and Clone Trooper – in case players need someone to sacrifice.
LEGO Star Wars Duel on Geonosis 75017 Set
Any set that takes the action back to the most dangerous elements of the Empire are sure to be a hit with fans and there is another set from 2013 that takes players in a slightly different direction. In the LEGO Star Wars Duel on Geonosis building set, the evil Count Dooku has entered the hidden lair in order to take hold of the secret plans and escape with them with the help of his Pilot.
The other two minifigures in this set are Yoda and Poggle the Lesser and it is up to them to stop Dooku before he can escape. Yoda and Dooku can be matched up for an epic fight with the Sith Lightning attack and Yoda’s force energy and it is enough to make the walls shake, the pillar topple and the lamps fall down. Also included is a speeder in case he does escape.
LEGO Star Wars 75023 Advent Calendar Set
The final set in this section of prequel film Star Wars LEGO sets is something entirely different – the LEGO Star Wars Advent Calender. LEGO Advent calenders are a great choice for any parent that would prefer that their child had some fun toys to play with rather than chocolate and this Star War theme is ideal for fans.
It may be a 2013 set but it can still be enjoyed in 2016 because the prizes are timeless. There are 24 items behind the different windows, all with a Star Wars theme, so there is something new to enjoy every day of December. In addition to the minifigures and droids, there are also vehicles – such as Dookus solar Sailor, a Naboo cruiser and a Republic gunship. Once all the windows have been opened, kids have a diverse set of pieces for great creative play over the holidays.
2013 LEGO Sets from the Star Wars Original Trilogy
LEGO Star Wars A-wing Starfighter 75003 Set
Not all of the sets from the 2013 series focus on the prequels or animated series. Some take inspiration from scenes from the original series that have been overlooked. The first of these is the LEGO Star Wars A-wing Starfighter building set from Return of the Jedi, Episode 6. This legendary model can be built and taken apart to meet the standards of Admiral Ackbar and the A-wing pilot.
With the wrench, the characters can tinker with the engine to get this ship back up to speed and ready to intercept the Imperial Fleet that is coming their way. The opening cockpit provides room for either of the included minifigures, which also include Han Solo, and there are four flick missiles available so that the crew can be fully armed and ready to fight. Launch the ship, embark on some fast-paced aerial manoeuvres and help the Rebels to victory.
LEGO Star Wars Rancor Pit 75005 Set
In Star Wars Episode 6, Return of the Jedi, much of the action takes place around Jabba the Hutt’s palace and Luke Skywalker finds himself trapped there in the Rancor Pit. The LEGO Star Wars Rancor Pit building set lets players recreate these scenes by providing players with all the right characters, décor and accessories to bring the action to life.
The 16cm high pit is perfect obstacle for Luke to try and escape and if he can negotiate the gate, secret room and hidden compartment, he might just be in luck. The only problem is that Rancor pit means that there is also a Rancor on the loose and the nearby skeleton doesn’t offer much comfort. Take advantage of the situation with the pitchfork and bucket, try and get the keys off of the Gammorrean guard and help Luke get back to his friends before it is too late!
LEGO Star Wars Jabbas Sail Barge 75020 Set
On the subject of the grotesque Jabba the Hutt, this model is also the star figure in another of the 2013 sets from Episode 6 – Return of the Jedi. The LEGO Star Wars Jabba’s Sail Barge building set is a strange ship to add to an ongoing Star Wars collection because it is nothing like any of the standard fighters and aircraft that players will be used to and it has a series of interesting features.
The sides of this odd barge fold down to the interior of the cabin, setchen and jail and the deck above holds plenty of weapons for a tough battle – including the hidden pirate cannon and flick missiles. Use the rolling wheels to transport this model around the galaxy as Jabba continues to hold Princess Leia against her will. Leia is included in her slave outfit and other minifigures include R2-D2, Weequay and Max Rebo.
LEGO Star Wars 75014 Battle of Hoth Set
LEGO designers never get tired of using Hoth for inspiration because it is so crucial to the story of the Rebels and the Empire – there is a fun set from 2015 and a massive version on the way in 2016. For the 2013 LEGO Star Wars Battle of Hoth set from The Empire Strikes Back – Episode 5 , the creators have focused on Luke Skywalker and provided a dangerous landscape for him to fight his way through.
At the heart of the set is the command centre where the rebels are trying to win the battle with the best possible strategy. At the moment this means arming the tower cannon, sending the 2 Hoth Rebel figures to man the trenches and having Luke set out on the snowspeeder to intercept the two snowtroopers. Luke and the rebels have their choice of blasters and rifles to see off the Imperial troops but there is also Luke’s lightsaber and tools for the trenches.
LEGO Star Wars AT-RT 75002 Set
The Clone Wars animated series is the source of inspiration for many of the 2013 sets because of its popularity with kids and the chance to bring even more characters and situations to life in brick form. Many fans will immediately gravitate towards sets that involve familiar characters like Yoda, who is the star of the LEGO Star Wars AT-RT building set.
Yoda is patrolling the area with the 501st Clone Trooper and spots trouble arriving in the form of the Commando Droid captain and Sniper Droid. The main build with this set is the 222 piece AT-RT walker, which players can create with great detail and use to help the heroes fight of the Droids. The walker has the articulated legs that long-term fans would expect to see and there is also a storage area for weapons and a swivelling laser cannon. With this on their side, Yoda and the Trooper can’t lose.
LEGO Star Wars Mandalorian Speeder 75022 Set
Another character that is a favorite with the younger generation, if not their parents, is Darth Maul, the bad guy from the prequels who also makes an appearance in The Clone Wars series. Darth Maul is a little different here, with his new mechanical Clone Wars legs, but this means he is even more of a collectors item for completionists.
In the LEGO Star Wars Mandalorian Speeder building set, players get this character – complete with his Darksaber – two Mandalorian Super Commandos and the chance to build the deadly speeder. This vehicle is the ideal way for this villain to get around with its great design, speed and all the hidden weapons that will make short work of his enemies. The speed has a bold elevating gun bit there are also flick missiles that are hidden under the hood. With this model at the front of an army, they can’t lose.
LEGO Star Wars Set 75024 Clone Wars HH-87 Starhopper
Another must-have Star Wars figure for any LEGO collector is Obi-Wan Kenobi as there are so many different versions of this character across the franchise and so many important scenes that he is involved in. With these 2013 sets from The Clone Wars, a stand out model is the LEGO Star Wars Clone Wars HH-87 Starhopper.
Obi-Wan is the star of this building set and is appealing to collectors because this minifigure is modelled in the Rako Hardeen disguise. Additional figures in this set are Cad Bane and a Nikto guard. Use the disguise to infiltrate the crew on board the buildable Starhopper – which has an opening cockpit and folding wings – and gain access to the pirate speeder that is hidden in the cargo area. Escape won’t be easy once Obi-Wan has the speeder, because the ship has four flick missiles on board, but it will be fun.
LEGO Star Wars Z-95 Headhunter 75004 Set
The appealing thing about these alternative sets from The Clone Wars is that they can provide familiar elements with an interesting twist. Every film and series has to have a top-of-the-range ship for the heroes to do battle in the skies, and this time players can turn to the LEGO Star Wars Z-95 Headhunter building set. This set has many of the features that players come to expect, such as the opening cockpit, retractable landing gear and weapons; however, this model features a LEGO Technic shooter for more powerful assault.
This unusual ship can be manned by either of the three minifigures that are included – the Clone Pilot, 501st Clone Trooper, and Pong Krell – and these figures have extra accessories, including a blaster and two smart-looking double-bladed lightsabers. With all these features, players should be able to create a great battle worthy of the show.
Lego Star Wars 75013 Umbaran MHC Set
One of the toughest places to do battle in the Clone Wars universe in the planet of Umbara and this landscape is a great place to set some dark, dangerous scenes with some LEGO models. It doesn’t get much more dangerous than the Lego Star Wars Umbaran MHC building set because the two lead characters – Ahsoka Tano and the 212th Clone Trooper – have to contend with two deadly Umbarans and their enormous Umbaran MHC weapon.
If the two heroes can use their own weapons to get past the enemy, they may have a better chance of taking down the MHC for good, or even getting into the opening cockpits and using it to their advantage in the battle. This weapon has posable legs, a swivelling and elevating cannon for deadly force and a missile launcher, so it is clearly a great tool in the right hands.
LEGO Star Wars Jek 14 Stealth Starfighter 75018 Set
The LEGO Star Wars Jek 14 Stealth Starfighter is another Clone Wars building set that showcases the great vehicles of this animated series. At first this speedy fighter may seem pretty ordinary, as it has the standard retractable landing gear and opening cockpit with space for Jek-14 or the Special Forces Clone Trooper minifigure, but there are a lot of interesting features and little tricks that make this ship difficult to deal with and great fun to play with.
The ship is carrying a holocron in the storage compartment and has caught the interest on the Separatist Bounty Hunter. Luckily for the pilot, this ship has a R4-G0 astromech droid to help out, a rotating blaster canon, flick missiles and an energy shield to protect it from enemies. Steer the Starfighter to safety with the folding wings and deliver the cargo before the Bounty Hunter shoots you down!
2013 LEGO sets from the Star Wars Old Republic game.
LEGO Star Wars Republic Troopers vs Sith Troopers 75001
Finally we come to an area that some Star Wars fans may have overlooked until now – The Knights of the Old Republic video game. These sets take vehicles and scenes from these games, that are perhaps not seen in the films, to provide even greater breadth to a collection. At the time, the 2013 LEGO Star Wars Republic Troopers vs Sith Troopers set was seen as a must-have collectors item because of the exclusive Republic trooper helmets and this set of figures will still look great on any shelf.
There are two Republic troopers in this set and they are under attack from two Sith troopers on their hover speeder. The Sith are armed with flick missiles and blasters but our heroes also have a blaster rifle and heavy gun to try and fight back. This set provides a simple scene on its own or an interesting addition to an existing set-up.
LEGO Star Wars Set 75025 Jedi Defender Class Cruiser
The movies, TV series and games have all had their fair share of interesting ships and another from the 2013 range is the LEGO Star Wars Jedi Defender Class Cruiser building set. The premise of this battle set is pretty familiar to players that already have plenty of ships and Star Wars LEGO sets – fly the ship into battle and use the additional accessories and weapons to help the heroes defeat the villains.
This time it is an even 2 on 2 fight with the Jedi Knight and Jedi Consular figures taking to the skies to fight off the Sith warrior and Sith Trooper. The characters are armed with their trusted light-sabers and blasters and there are also four rotating flick missiles on the cruiser so that they can attack from all angles. The ship also has the benefit of the storage for holocrons, retractable landing gear and lifting handle to help players re-enact battles.
Leave a Reply