STACK #210 Apr 2022

GAMING FEATURE

visit stack.com.au

ONCE YOU START DOWN THE BLOCK PATH, FOREVER WILL IT DOMINATE YOUR DESTINY! After far, far too long a wait, this month finally allows fans of both LEGO and StarWars to get into LEGO StarWars: The Skywalker Saga . STACK chatted with the game’s senior producer, James Burgon, to get the inside word. Words Amy Flower

EGGS IN SPACE!

T he wait may have been long, but this is by far the most content-rich LEGO game yet, and the TT people wanted to make sure that it was great. “With over 1000 Kyber bricks to collect, not to mention minikits, characters, vehicles, level challenges etc. this is truly our biggest and greatest LEGO game to date,” confirms Burgon. “We have an incredibly passionate and talented team at TT Games who adore LEGO and Star Wars, and we all wanted to do the Skywalker Saga justice. Game development is always an agile process and, as is all too common, it came to a point where we knew more time to achieve our vision was needed and we took that opportunity to reassess.” All nine main Star Wars movies feature, offering a perfect introduction to the universe for newcomers, and a feast of memories for long-time fans. “This is potentially a young gamers first glimpse into the Star Wars universe. With that in mind, we want to stay true to the source material, but tell those stories in a way that makes them fall in love with Star Wars as much as we all did when we were younglings,” enthuses Burgon. “It’s been a delight to revisit the prequels and original trilogy with nods to some of the new films and the information we know now, but also to take the new trilogy and put our spin on it has been fantastic fun. We’ve also managed to expand on some off-camera moments, either in levels or side quests. For example, you’ll get to explore Hoth as Han on the Tauntaun trying to find Luke in the tundra – something we never saw on film that makes for some great gameplay.” After many years and many games, the relationship between TT Games and both The LEGO Group and Lucasfilm is a strong one. “We have a fantastic relationship, so it was crucial we had both licensors onboard with us from the beginning of development,” says

Burgon. “From concepts of maps and lighting for the 28 hub world locations, to designing new moulds and minifigs which fit within LEGO’s manufacturing process, both partners have been extremely understanding and helpful.” The look of the LEGO games has undergone quite an evolution through the years, and Burgon believes that LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga brings the biggest one yet. “We’ve rebuilt this game from the ground up, using a new engine. Visual enhancements have been a huge factor in making this feel like the most realistic LEGO game yet – from small seam details on the minifigures, to weathering of vehicles and characters on snowy/sandy levels, it’s a massive leap from anything we’ve ever done before. Quests are now trackable in your Holoprojector, so you’re free to traverse the galaxy and keep a log of errands to come back to – it's a truly immersive experience that’s unprecedented for a LEGO game.” Fighting, in particular, brings some new mechanics. “The combat in this game has had a complete overhaul since our last outing to the galaxy far, far away. For blasters you can

Part of the fun of the LEGO games is uncovering easter eggs as you play. James assures us that LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is no different, and tells us one to look out for: “My personal favourite is that certain crates in certain levels may contain copies of where it all started for the TT LEGO Star Wars journey – smash all the crates and see if you can find them!”

reimagined, along with The Force. Players can grab nearby LEGO objects and have complete control over where they throw and aim them. Force pushing droids is a breeze, and combat combos and counters make you feel closer to the action than ever before.” Reconnecting with characters that we love, we’re promised that many will also sound familiar. “For that truly authentic C-3PO experience you need the help of Anthony Daniels reprising his monumental role that spans all nine films,” says Burgon, excitedly. “There are a few other friendly voices returning to the galaxy too, so you’ll have to keep an ear out for them!” Burgon’s enthusiasm for the game certainly is infectious, especially considering there’s such a weight of expectation. “I think any Star Wars fan is going to adore all the deep-lore references throughout the hub quests,” he says, “and LEGO fans are going to be amazed by the brick-built ships and ship interiors. I feel all gamers, young or old, are going to be cracking smiles throughout and will love reliving the journey of the Skywalkers in this epic nine-film saga.”

combat roll, hide behind cover, and aim down sights,” Burgon tells us. “Lightsaber duels have been

• LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is out on Apr 5

32 APRIL 2022

jbhifi.com.au