Recreating A Classic I Built The 2000s Lego 7184 MTT Submarine
Hey Lego enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep (pun intended!) into a nostalgic build from the early 2000s – the ingenious submarine crafted from the LEGO 7184 MTT (Multi-Troop Transport) set's back-of-the-box alternate instructions. This isn't your typical, run-of-the-mill LEGO model; it’s a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness that LEGO inspires. We're going to embark on a journey to recreate this classic model, explore its features, and reflect on the era of LEGO that spawned it. So, grab your bricks, and let's get building!
Unearthing a LEGO Gem from the Past
Back in the early 2000s, before the age of readily available online instructions and digital building tools, LEGO often showcased alternate builds on the back of their box packaging. These hidden gems provided a delightful challenge and encouraged builders to think outside the box (literally!). The 7184 MTT set, released in 2000 as part of the Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace line, was no exception. While the primary model was the iconic MTT, a troop carrier for the Trade Federation army, the back of the box teased a sleek, mini-submarine – a fascinating departure from the set's main focus. This submarine design, constructed entirely from the MTT set's pieces, represents a masterclass in alternate model design, making clever use of the available bricks to create something entirely new and unexpected. The beauty of these back-of-the-box builds lies in their inherent constraint; the challenge of creating a completely different model using only the parts provided fosters incredible creativity and ingenuity. It’s a reminder that LEGO bricks are more than just components; they are a gateway to limitless imagination.
This particular submarine model piqued my interest not just for its design, but also for the era it represents. The early 2000s were a golden age for LEGO Star Wars, a period marked by innovative sets, memorable minifigures, and a burgeoning online community sharing their own creations. Rebuilding this submarine is like taking a trip back in time, rekindling the excitement and wonder that LEGO evoked during my childhood. It's a chance to appreciate the design aesthetic of that era, characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and undeniable charm. The back-of-the-box builds were a staple of this era, offering a tangible connection between the physical LEGO set and the boundless possibilities within. They served as a subtle challenge to builders, encouraging them to explore beyond the main model and discover the hidden potential of their brick collection. It's a spirit of creative exploration that I believe is still very much alive in the LEGO community today, and this submarine is a shining example of that spirit.
The Build: A Step-by-Step Adventure
Embarking on this build was a thrilling experience, a journey back to the simpler times of following printed instructions and relying on visual cues. The instructions for the submarine, being a back-of-the-box design, were naturally less detailed than those found in dedicated instruction manuals. This added an extra layer of challenge and required a closer examination of each step, enhancing the overall building experience. The absence of a parts list also meant that the first step involved carefully sorting through the MTT set's components, identifying the pieces required for the submarine. This process, while time-consuming, provided a valuable opportunity to familiarize myself with the set's inventory and appreciate the versatility of each brick. It also highlighted the clever way in which the designers utilized specific parts for multiple purposes, a hallmark of good alternate model design.
The build itself progressed smoothly, guided by the clear, albeit concise, instructions. The submarine's construction cleverly utilizes the MTT's larger elements, such as the wheel sections and Technic bricks, to form the hull and structural framework. The use of smaller plates and tiles to create the submarine's sleek exterior demonstrates an ingenious use of the available parts, showcasing how a cohesive design can emerge from a limited selection of bricks. One particularly interesting aspect of the build was the way in which the designers integrated functionality into the model. The submarine features a rotating propeller at the rear, adding a touch of playability and realism. This simple mechanism, achieved using a few Technic pins and gears, highlights the attention to detail that went into the design. As I pieced together the submarine, I couldn't help but marvel at the resourcefulness of the original designers. They managed to create a visually appealing and structurally sound model, all within the constraints of the MTT set's parts inventory. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of LEGO as a creative medium, where limitations often spark innovation and ingenuity.
Diving into the Design and Features
The finished submarine is a delightful testament to LEGO ingenuity, a compact and streamlined vessel that perfectly captures the essence of a deep-sea explorer. Despite being constructed entirely from the parts of the 7184 MTT set, the submarine boasts a distinctive design, setting it apart from the troop carrier's utilitarian aesthetic. Its sleek profile, punctuated by angled plates and transparent elements, gives it a sense of speed and agility, while the robust hull suggests its ability to withstand the pressures of the deep. The color scheme, primarily consisting of dark bluish gray and dark red, further enhances the submarine's visual appeal, lending it a serious and purposeful look.
One of the most striking features of the submarine is its cockpit, a transparent dome that offers a clear view of the interior. This not only adds to the model's aesthetic appeal but also provides a glimpse into the submarine's inner workings. The cockpit can comfortably accommodate a single minifigure, the pilot who braves the depths in search of underwater wonders. The rotating propeller at the rear of the submarine is another notable feature, adding a touch of playability to the model. This simple mechanism, activated by a small gear on the side, allows for simulated underwater propulsion, enhancing the overall play experience. Beyond its visual appeal and play features, the submarine also showcases a clever use of space and functionality. The limited number of parts available from the MTT set meant that the designers had to be resourceful in their design choices. The result is a model that is both compact and sturdy, with every element serving a purpose. The submarine's overall design aesthetic harks back to the early 2000s, a period characterized by a blend of classic LEGO elements and emerging Technic components. It's a style that is both nostalgic and timeless, appealing to LEGO enthusiasts of all ages.
Why This Build Still Matters Today
This 2000s LEGO 7184 MTT back-of-the-box submarine build remains relevant today for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it serves as a powerful reminder of LEGO's enduring ability to spark creativity and innovation. In an era dominated by digital building tools and readily available instructions, this alternate model stands as a testament to the ingenuity that can arise from limitations. The challenge of constructing a completely new model using only the parts of a single set encourages builders to think outside the box, to explore unconventional solutions, and to appreciate the versatility of the LEGO system.
Furthermore, this build represents a significant part of LEGO history, a tangible link to the early days of the LEGO Star Wars theme. The back-of-the-box alternate models were a common feature of LEGO sets during this period, offering a glimpse into the design process and inspiring builders to create their own alternate models. Rebuilding this submarine is like stepping back in time, reconnecting with the nostalgic charm of classic LEGO sets and the spirit of creative exploration that defined the era. In addition to its historical significance, this build also offers a valuable educational experience. The process of deciphering the limited instructions, sorting through the parts, and assembling the model fosters problem-solving skills, spatial reasoning, and attention to detail. It's a hands-on learning activity that can be enjoyed by builders of all ages, promoting creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the art of LEGO design. Finally, this submarine build is simply a fun and engaging project. It's a rewarding experience to transform a set originally designed for one purpose into something entirely different, showcasing the endless possibilities of LEGO bricks. The finished model is a unique and eye-catching addition to any LEGO collection, a conversation starter that sparks curiosity and admiration.
Final Thoughts: A Submarine of Memories
Building this 2000s LEGO 7184 MTT back-of-the-box submarine was more than just assembling bricks; it was a journey through time, a reminiscence of the golden age of LEGO Star Wars, and a celebration of the boundless creativity that LEGO inspires. This little submarine, born from the constraints of a single set's parts, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of LEGO designers and the imaginative spirit of builders. It's a reminder that even within limitations, there lies the potential for innovation and the creation of something truly special.
The experience of recreating this classic model has rekindled my appreciation for the back-of-the-box alternate builds, those hidden gems that challenged us to think beyond the main model and explore the full potential of our LEGO collection. These builds were more than just extra instructions; they were invitations to creativity, encouraging us to experiment, improvise, and discover the joy of building something unique. As I look at the finished submarine, I'm filled with a sense of nostalgia for the early 2000s, a time when LEGO was a central part of my childhood, a source of endless entertainment and inspiration. This build has not only added a cool model to my collection but has also reignited a passion for LEGO's rich history and the spirit of creative exploration that continues to drive the LEGO community today. So, if you ever stumble upon an old LEGO set with a back-of-the-box alternate model, I encourage you to give it a try. You might just discover a hidden gem and unlock a whole new world of building possibilities. Who knows what other amazing creations are waiting to be unearthed from the depths of our LEGO collections?