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E3 2015 Preview: LEGO Dimensions

Games requiring physical add-ons are becoming more and more popular. Activision proved with Skylanders that there is plenty of money to be made with the idea… but do we really need another game like this? Before my hands-on with Lego Dimensions, I would have answered that question with a firm no. Now, I’ve completely changed my mind.

Traveler’s Tales LEGO titles also tend to follow their own formula, and in truth I was becoming uninterested with them after playing so many similar games That said, LEGO Dimensions manages to add something new and revitalise the series. It borrows ideas from other NFC franchises, but, using the all powerful pull of LEGO manages to improve make an overall improvement.

Of course, there’s the familiar toy pad that brings the pieces into the game world but in classic LEGO style it’s not just a tool. The toy pad acts as another opportunity for puzzles and this is how LEGO Dimensions manages to revitalise the toys-to-life genre.

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In each stage there are multiple puzzles to solve, each requiring the player to move characters and items around on the toy pad. Fairly obvious hints are given in-game early on teaching players the multiple ways this idea will be implemented during game play. A certain character may need to be in a particular place to use one of their specific skills. Moving them from their current spot on the toy pad to a different section can sometimes allow them to just that. This is just one of the examples of how the toy pad isn’t just hardware and actually improves the game.

My main concern when this game was announced was how TT was going to implement actual LEGO bricks in real life, then back into the game. Past LEGO games just have you hold a button to build something or select the correct pieces within a time limit. LEGO Dimensions uses the titular block toy to its fullest this time around and I couldn’t be happier. There are moments in the game where you’ll be required to physically build something then place it on the toy pad and bam, there it is.

At one point I have to drive the Batmobile to a certain spot for a puzzle. Once I got it there I realised the standard Batmobile wasn’t going to cut it. I removed the piece from the toy pad and made some alterations following the on screen instructions and created a new physical version of Batman’s fancy car with some extra firepower. I then placed it back on the toy pad and it was there for me to utilise and complete the puzzle.

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LEGO games are above all, amazing ways to merchandise brands. Sure the game itself needs to be of a certain calibre or the brand itself will be negatively affected but look at the back catalogue of the Traveller’s Tales’ LEGO games. Pretty impressive. This is the second major factor of Lego Dimensions impending success. The new characters and franchises introduced to accompany an already stellar line up is hugely impressive.

As if Batman, The Lord of the Rings and The LEGO Movie aren’t enough, LEGO Dimensions isn’t holding back with new characters. The Simpsons, Scooby-Doo, Portal, Doctor Who, Back to the Future, The Wizard of Oz and Jurassic World are all going to be in LEGO Dimensions. Seriously it reads like someone personal wish list. Actually it reads like my personal wish list and i’m sure i’m not alone in thinking so.

LEGO Dimensions launches late September this year for PS3, PS4, Wii U, Xbox 360 and Xbox One.


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About the author

Shane Wall

I'm just a simple man trying to make my way in the universe. A game geek turned audio engineer/musician. Shane's life is a delicate balance of video games, music and science fiction.