Star Wars fans who grumbled at Samuel L Jackson’s purple lightsaber and further balked at the recently unveiled “crossguard” version are about to get another shock. Toy maker Hasbro is to capitalise on the ever-expanding aesthetic possibilities for the Jedi master’s weapon of choice by releasing a “make your own dream lightsaber” kit in time for the December release of new film Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Star Wars Bladebuilders allows purchasers to build weapons even more impractical than the crossguard, or forked sabre, which was described online as a “new and improved way to amputate your own hand” when it appeared in the debut trailer for JJ Abrams’s film in November. Retailing for $49.99 in the US, the main Jedi Master Lightsaber set will feature a standard lightsaber plus a pair of attachable “lightdaggers” and several connectors to allow multiple arrangements.
A variety of other lightsabers, based on those used by Obi-Wan Kenobi, Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker in previous movies, are also available and connectible. Meanwhile, there are foam and extendable versions for those who prefer their Jedi weapons single-bladed.
“Star Wars is such a magical property and in particular the lightsaber is — and I think everyone would agree — the most iconic weapon of all time,” Hasbro’s Kim Boyd told USA Today. “This is the first time we’ve given kids the chance to customise through an entire system.”
He said the new range had been inspired by research showing children are interested in customisation, and it was hoped they would combine their lightsabers to produce new variations. “With the Star Wars property as a whole, because it’s rich with storytelling and conflict and triumph, it lends itself more to a social play.”
Disney plans to release a new trilogy of Star Wars films between now and 2019, with beloved characters such as Yoda, Han Solo and Boba Fett also tipped to receive their own standalone spin-off movies. The first film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, is due out on 18 December.
