Anyone who grew up with PlayStation recognizes Ridge Racer. Many consider the peak to be R4: Ridge Racer Type 4, a game that enriched the franchise’s imaginary motorsports world with characters, teams, a distinctive art style and musical charm, and—most crucial for today’s topic—breathtaking car designs you wished were real. They’ve scarcely been made into scale models, but now, a custom Lego creator has built them with bricks and provided the instructions and stickers for you to create them yourself.
I’m not deeply involved in the Lego hobbyist scene, but I am aware that original builds are nothing novel. What particularly impressed me about this collection of R4’s four main vehicles by StudWorks is that they appear, quite frankly, flawless. At the very least, they are as true to their actual designs as any Speed Champions set Lego has produced of real-life vehicles. And sometimes, those can look quite rough!
Even better, thanks to a collaboration with a site called Brickstickershop, enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to buy sticker sheets to finalize each car’s livery. That’s significant because, without the right decals, this project would certainly lose some of its impact.
LEGO Replications of Ridge Racer Type 4 Cars! (Instructions Available)
See, these four vehicles—the Assoluto Bisonte, Terrazi Troop, Age Solo Dirigeant, and Lizard Detector—aren’t just imaginary cars in the Ridge Racer realm. They represent the teams that drive them, each boasting its own unique narrative in the game’s single-player mode. They are featured in the game’s iconic CGI opening cinematic. And they looked fantastic. You really got the impression Namco put as much care into the designs of R4’s fictional vehicles as genuine car designers dedicate to actual ones.
The Assoluto Bisonte was an intriguing mix of a Ford GT40 and a Ferrari. The Terrazi Troop clearly borrowed Porsche’s then-new distinct fried-egg headlights, yet the rest of it was anything but Porsche. The Age Solo Dirigeant resembled a retro-futuristic British roadster. And the Lizard Detector, a creation of the Ridge Racer universe’s American Lizard brand, might be the least creative of the group, but it’s also distinctly unique. These vehicles possessed their own personas, their own stories, making them notable.
This is precisely why any Ridge Racer enthusiast would eagerly seize the chance to possess scale replicas of these cars. As it turns out, a small batch was created by Kyosho when R4 first launched in 1998. They were exclusively available in Japan, and these days, the set commands more than $1,000. No one should pay that amount, as they are of quite low-quality. I’d prefer to have StudWorks’ Lego interpretations on my shelf. In fact, that’s exactly what I plan to do—as soon as I gather the right pieces.
Instructions for StudWorks’ R4 vehicles can be acquired at Rebrickable, while the pre-cut sticker sheets will be available through Brickstickershop within the coming days.
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# Constructing Lego Models of R4’s Main Cars from Ridge Racer: A Fan’s Guide
## Introduction
Ridge Racer, a beloved racing game franchise, is celebrated for its memorable vehicles and exhilarating gameplay. Among its titles, Ridge Racer Type 4 (R4) is notable for its distinct car designs and vibrant visuals. For both fans and Lego aficionados, crafting Lego models of R4’s main cars presents an exciting method to blend creativity with nostalgia. This guide will walk you through the steps, tips, and resources required to bring your own Lego interpretations of these legendary automobiles to life.
## Understanding R4’s Main Cars
Ridge Racer Type 4 showcases an array of cars, each characterized by unique designs and attributes. Some of the most prominent main cars include:
1. **The Ridge Racer** – A balanced car known for its speed and stability.
2. **The A.I.** – A sleek, modern vehicle with sharp lines and a unique appearance.
3. **The D.D.** – A robust car with a powerful build, prized for its quick acceleration.
4. **The M.O.** – A nimble and compact car, ideal for tight corners and agile maneuvers.
Acquainting yourself with the design of these cars will aid you in accurately replicating them in Lego format.
## Gathering Materials
Before commencing your build, assemble the necessary materials:
– **Lego Bricks**: Amass a variety of bricks in diverse shapes, sizes, and colors, paying close attention to those that correspond with the vehicles from R4.
– **Reference Images**: Seek out high-resolution images of the cars from various angles. Official game graphics, screenshots, and fan illustrations can be beneficial.
– **Building Tools**: A flat surface for constructing, along with any tools you might need for dismantling or altering existing Lego creations.
## Designing Your Model
1. **Select Your Car**: Determine which main vehicle you want to build initially. Start with one that resonates with you or has a simpler design.
2. **Sketch Your Design**: Prior to jumping into construction, sketch your design. This will assist you in visualizing the proportions and details of the car.
3. **Break Down the Structure**: Examine the car’s anatomy and pinpoint the key components: the body, wheels, and any unique aspects (like spoilers or decals).
4. **Choose a Scale**: Establish the scale of your model. A smaller scale will use fewer pieces but might limit detail, while a larger scale provides room for more elaborate designs.
## Building Process
1. **Begin with the Chassis**: Construct the base of the car first. Ensure it’s sturdy enough for the rest of the model.
2. **Incorporate Details**: Gradually include details such as body panels, windows, and wheels. Utilize various brick shapes to represent the car’s distinct features.
3. **Apply Color**: Utilize the appropriate colors to match the car’s design. If you can’t find the exact shade, consider using stickers or paint for customized touches.
4. **Verify Stability**: As you progress, consistently check the model’s stability. Adjust as necessary to ensure it can stand independently.
## Customization and Final Touches
Once the foundational structure is finished, think about adding personalized decals or stickers to mimic the vehicle’s branding from the game. You can print your designs on adhesive paper or use pre-existing Lego decals.
## Showcasing Your Model
After your Lego model is finalized, locate a fitting area for display. Consider assembling a themed diorama that reflects the racing environment of Ridge Racer, complete with track elements and other cars.
## Joining the Community
Share your creations with other fans and Lego builders. Online platforms such as social media, Lego forums, and fan sites dedicated to Ridge Racer can offer valuable feedback and inspiration. Engaging in contests or exhibitions may also enrich your experience.
## Conclusion
Building Lego models of R4’s main cars is a fulfilling project that allows fans to celebrate their passion for the game while enhancing their construction skills. With the correct materials, design methodology, and community encouragement, you can manifest these iconic vehicles in Lego form. Enjoy building!