Sometimes you see a LEGO custom build and wonder: Why didn’t LEGO actually make it like this themselves?
That’s exactly what I thought when I discovered the alternative Imperial shuttle by codyaner.bricks. The designer used parts from two LEGO Imperial Lambda Shuttles to build a model that, to me, looks much more convincing than the original version.
And I have to say: The result is truly impressive!
Finally, an Imperial shuttle with really good proportions
What immediately caught my eye was the significantly larger central tail fin. After the modification, it’s about twice as large as on the original model.
This makes the entire ferry look much more impressive and more reminiscent of the spaceship from *Star Wars: Return of the Jedi*.
Especially with LEGO Star Wars, I find that the proportions make an incredible difference. Of course, LEGO always has to consider the number of pieces and the retail price for official sets. Still, this build shows what’s possible with a little more building material.
Space for eight Minifigures
What I find even more interesting, though, is the interior. Two pilots can sit side by side in the cockpit. There’s also a crew compartment that can accommodate six additional Minifigures.
So, a total of eight minifigures can be accommodated.
That’s a huge plus for me. After all, what’s the point of a big LEGO spaceship if you can barely fit any minifigures inside?
This is a great way—especially for collectors who already own some Imperial troops—to actually incorporate their Minifigures into the model.
Movable wings and a boarding ramp
Of course, no Imperial Shuttle would be complete without its characteristic folding wings. These can also be raised on the alternative model, allowing the shuttle to be displayed in its typical landing position.
I actually think it looks particularly impressive in this position.
In addition, the designer has incorporated a retractable boarding ramp beneath the cockpit. This not only gives the shuttle a convincing exterior appearance but also adds some truly useful play features.
I’d love to see a LEGO set like this Imperial Shuttle
Of course, comparing it to an official LEGO set isn’t entirely fair. After all, this build requires pieces from several different sets.
Nevertheless, the project demonstrates quite impressively the potential that lies within the Imperial Shuttle.
The large UCS Imperial Shuttle from 2010 remains a special collector’s item to this day. But I’d also love to see a larger, modern, yet still playable version—with good proportions, plenty of space for Minifigures, and movable features.
Where can I find the building instructions?
The alternative building instructions are available on Rebrickable. You can find more of the designer’s creations on his Instagram profile @codyaner.bricks.
My take: For me, this is a truly successful LEGO Star Wars build. The larger tail fin, the eight possible Minifigures, and the movable wings really make all the difference.
And maybe LEGO will actually take a closer look at fan projects like this one. Because this is exactly how I’d imagine a new Imperial Shuttle.
You can find more LEGO themes, deals, and Price Comparisons on Brick-Tracker.