From
1998 -
2000 there was a sub-category
of the Technic theme called Competition. Unlike traditional
Technic sets which are typically scale models of a real vehicle with
carefully reproduced functions, these models were not based on any
real-world subject and are intended purely for competitive play.
In general, the sets each came with two models which were intended to
battle each other. The factions were identified by color.
The new turquoise color represented the humans, and the purple color
represented the cyborgs or human/robot hybrids. Most of these sets
came with Technic figures. The cyborg figures featured new heads
and arms with simulated mechanical detail. In most cases the
functions involved some sort of articulated striking mechanism which
could be actuated by the user and then retracted with rubber
bands. This striker would be used to try to impact the target of
the other model. A successful hit resulted in the pilot of the
impacted vehicle being ejected or some other form of spring loaded
destruction. In many cases the two models were nearly identical
except for color, making for an even match. However in other cases
there was a clear distinction between the hunter and the robotic
target.
Apart from the new colors unique to this theme, this theme also
introduced the competition cannon. This system involved a launcher
and a rubber tipped projectile. In some cases, the projectile was
used as the striker at the end of a mechanism rather than being
launched. Many models used shock absorbers to spring load
functions. Other models use either rubber bands or bungee cords to
store energy.
The colors are rare enough that they are of limited use in other models,
but these sets came with large numbers of uncommon thin liftarms as
well as a wide assortment of black Technic parts.
Sets
8305 and
8307 don't
really fit the category very well, but they don't fit anywhere else
either so are included here. They are still competition based play
sets but with a different theme. The
Bungee Blasters are actually from
1997
and not officially part of the Competition theme, but they fit in very
well with the Bungee Choppers and the competition concept in general.
On a personal note, I always thought that these sets did fit in very
well with the Technic theme. However, they are among the favorite
models of my entire collection for my younger children, so LEGO
® was successful in expanding the line to a younger audience.
