Blocks takes command of the Imperial navy and examines the history of LEGO Star Wars Star Destroyer sets, from Ultimate Collector Series builds, through Mini sets, to play scale models.
In 1977, the opening frames of Star Wars introduced audiences first to the Tantive IV, a respectable spacecraft in service of the Rebel Alliance. But mere moments later, the screen is slowly enveloped by the imposing Imperial Star Destroyer, projecting power and might the Tantive could only dream of. The gigantic capital ship has since become one of the most iconic images of the Star Wars series, as synonymous with the Galactic Empire as the Stormtrooper and Darth Vader.
Such a beloved ship was a no-brainer to make in the early days of LEGO Star Wars, but technical limitations of the system at the time made it difficult to properly capture the look of the Star Destroyer. So it was a few years before fans could get their hands on a LEGO Star Destroyer, and longer still until the first play scale version released. Now, as of 2024, there have been three play scale sets and two Ultimate Collector Series models (as well as a midi-scale set from 2010). Join Blocks, the monthly LEGO magazine, and journey through the history of LEGO Star Destroyer sets.
2002 — 10030 Imperial Star Destroyer
It’s easy to take the modern LEGO System for granted — there are hundreds of pieces available to builders nowadays, each with their own unique uses. Back in 2002, the parts catalogue was much more limited, which makes 10030 Imperial Star Destroyer all the more impressive. Using 3,096 pieces, the set captures the awesome size of the ship at a scale that’s simultaneously massive and infinitely too small to be called minifigure scale, putting the sheer size of the in-universe craft into perspective. To get around the lack of piece diversity available to them, the set’s designers made use of magnets to hold the large panels to the frame. A creative solution to be sure, but magnets don’t have the long-lasting strength to hold the structure together forever — something that becomes a bit of an issue for a set that’s over two decades old.
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2006 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer
Four years after the Ultimate Collector Series model, the Star Destroyer got the play scale treatment for the first time with 6211 Imperial Star Destroyer. Detailing was significantly reduced compared to 10030, which is understandable for a set with a lower piece count and cheaper price… though the exposed Technic bricks on the sides are a bit disappointing. Dark bluish grey plates dot the top of the build, breaking up the light grey used for most everything else in a way that’s both satisfying and a bit distracting for the eyes. 6211 packs plenty of playability into its interior, including a launchable escape pod, which can fit a few of the set’s amazing minifigures — including the likes of Grand Moff Tarkin and Darth Vader.
2014 — 75055 Imperial Star Destroyer
The early-to-mid 2010s saw a period of rapid modernisation of building techniques and piece variety, and 75055 Imperial Star Destroyer took full advantage. The exterior actually has less greebling than the previous model, but the removal of a few stray parts does wonders to make this version of the Star Destroyer much cleaner and sleeker. The bridge also looks much more accurate, as it sacrifices minifigure compatibility for appearance. Minifigures still have plenty of space inside, though, which can now be accessed via folding panels attached with Technic pins on the side. No escape pod is included this time around, but the replica bridge is more than welcome, even if its placement is far from accurate. The minifigure selection was once again incredible, featuring a brand-new Darth Vader and Stormtrooper.
2019 — 75252 Imperial Star Destroyer
Only a handful of Star Wars ships receive the honour of getting a second Ultimate Collector Series model, and the Star Destroyer is by far one of the most deserving. 75252 Imperial Star Destroyer takes the blueprint of the original 2002 set and beautifully updates it with modern pieces and techniques. Gone are the magnets, replaced by sturdy Technic framework that even allows the set to be picked up with a handle, accessed by removing two small sections on the top. 75252 strikes the perfect balance between greebling and plain studs, adding tons of detail to the sides and letting the top remain mostly undisturbed and sleek. The two included minifigures aren’t anything too special, but they’re a nice treat to fill some space on the stand.
2024 — 75394 Imperial Star Destroyer
2024 delivered the first play scale Star Destroyer set in a decade, 75394 Imperial Star Destroyer. The latest LEGO Star Destroyer has some of the most texturing and detail on the top, adding an additional layer of wedge plates down the centre and plenty of small details on the raised sections towards the back. Similar to 75055, the interior includes a bridge section, letting fans recreate their favourite moments from the films. While this Star Destroyer is a tad smaller than the previous play scale version, it is undoubtedly one of the densest LEGO Star Destroyers in terms of detail. And its minifigure selection gets a bit of a boost from Cal Kestis, the protagonist of Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor, as a special 25th anniversary figure.
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