I was fortunate enough to receive this set several days ago, and spent a couple nights and mornings going through the entire thing to bring it here to FBTB. I'll admit to not owning the Droid Developer Kit, so therefore this is my first foray into Mindstorms.<br>
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First things first - there is no CD-ROM in this set, which placates the Mac users out there (and I'm one myself), and maybe I'm too easily impressed but I love the fact that when you open the box the baggies with the parts are in their own individual compartments in the tray. I'll be saving the tray alone just as a good means of sorting in the future . . .<br>
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So this is the fourth $100+ set that LEGO has issued recently - is it worth the money?<br>
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This set is all about robotics - and if you can put together a Technic set, you'll have no problem with this. The set is broken up into three parts, each with its own &quot;Constructopedia&quot;; you are greeted as a Sith Apprentice as you get to work. The books are wonderfully laid out and very clear and concise.<br>
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If you're unfamiliar with Mindstorms, the brain of this set is the LEGO MicroScout computer. You'll need two 'not included' AA batteries to run it. It holds various preset programs and allows for you to make your own programs using your pc. The MicroScout gets built right into the models and is easy and straightforward to use.<br>
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The first book gives direction on how to build L-8GO, which ends up looking like a sidekick from a Saturday morning sci-fi cartoon. It rolls about on four wheels. Then you move on to build the Droid Fighter in its walking stage, and the Fighter really does walk - my daughter kept asking to push the 'run' button again and again as it marched across our dining room floor.<br>
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The second book tells you how to build a Destroyer Droid. While it doesn't roll and then open up, it does march along with its cannon arms rocking to and fro as if firing away at an adversary.<br>
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The highlight of this set is of course the AT-AT. And to be honest . . . it's fantastic. It'll take you a moment to get it together, but in the end you have a walker that doesn't glide along on wheels, or shuffle step - it picks up its feet and steps. The head rocks back and forth like it's looking for troops to spray fire upon. VERY cool.<br>
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And those are just the Star Wars robots - there are hints and instructions in the 'pedias to build at least another dozen robots.<br>
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Now, this set doesn't muster up to the UCS sets. Truth to tell, LEGO will have a difficult time surpassing those gems. But if you have the money, or are shopping for Christmas already, this introduction to robotics with a Star Wars twist will make you or your child VERY happy. Another standout item in the Star Wars LEGO lineup.