20-Year-Old LEGO Mace windu’s Lightsaber Still glows, Sparking Nostalgia and Battery longevity Debate
A LEGO enthusiast’s decades-old Mace windu action figure is captivating the internet after its lightsaber was discovered to still illuminate, prompting reflection on the durability of toys past and the surprisingly long life of certain battery types.
There’s a unique joy in rediscovering cherished toys from childhood, a feeling amplified when those relics of the past still function as intended. The robustness of toys manufactured in previous eras is becoming increasingly apparent, as evidenced by a recent online discovery. A LEGO figure of the Jedi Master, Mace Windu, continues to light up after nearly two decades.
The longevity of the lightsaber’s power source is notably striking in an age where frequent battery replacements or recharges are commonplace. “How often on average do you have to change the batteries in your wireless mice or recharge the battery on the Nintendo Switch?” the original post implicitly asks, highlighting the contrast between modern devices and the enduring power of this vintage toy.
A Reddit user, posting under the handle “Deeznutzupinyourgutz,” shared the discovery, noting the lightsaber still glows at the push of a button. Experts speculate the figure likely utilizes a button cell battery – a type commonly found in older electronics like the original Game Boy – known for their extended shelf life. While not indefinite, these batteries can retain power for remarkably long periods.
According to comments within the Reddit thread, the battery is even replaceable, with one user recounting successfully changing the battery in their own LEGO Darth vader figure by accessing it through the back.
A recent LEGO release, the Goonies set, demonstrates the brand’s continued ability to tap into nostalgic properties.
However, the glowing lightsaber isn’t without its quirks. while functional, the lightsaber appears purple when inactive, a deviation from mace Windu’s signature purple blade as depicted in the Star Wars films. When illuminated, the color shifts to a more traditional blue.This discrepancy has sparked amusement, with many suggesting actor Samuel L. jackson, who famously advocated for a purple lightsaber for his character, might have some thoughts on the matter.
The Mace Windu figure originally came as part of the Clone Turbo Tank set, released in 2005. The set, and was available in both illuminated and non-illuminated versions. The set is now discontinued, driving up the value of individual figures. Currently, a standalone Mace Windu figure can fetch around 50 euros on resale platforms like eBay.
This discovery begs the question: what other battery-operated treasures from your childhood are still functioning today? The enduring power of this LEGO figure serves as a potent reminder of a time when toys were built to last, and a simple button cell battery could provide years of illuminated fun.
Expanded News Report:
Why did this happen? The enduring functionality of the LEGO Mace Windu figure’s lightsaber is attributed to the longevity of button cell batteries used in its construction, combined with the relatively infrequent use of the toy over the past two decades. These batteries,typically silver-oxide,have a slow discharge rate and can retain power for extended periods when not regularly activated.