New Design for 2012 Star Wars Packaging Revealed

(Image via StarWars.com)

You don't become one of the biggest toy licenses in the world by accident. When it comes to Star Wars merchandise, the folks at Lucas Licensing leave no detail unattended. That's why it should come as no surprise that their new packaging design for 2012 is winning rave reviews.

The new design was recently revealed at StarWars.com. Designed by the folks at the design firm PILOT, the packaging features themes and images from "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace", which will once again hit theaters in 2012 - this time in 3-D. Artist Chris Ford created the artwork which was used for the iconic visage of Darth Maul seen on much of the packaging. The overall design reflects the look and feel of the Theed power generator, where Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon and Darth Maul fought to the death at the culmination of the film.

Bill Concannon of PILOT commented on the design work in an interview with StarWars.com:

"When you plan for character illustration to anchor your packaging, you will find the greatest challenges. For instance, Darth Maul may seem to be the dream for any illustrator to work with. From his striking body markings, double-bladed lightsaber and vicious grin he's amazing. Yet we wanted to capture Maul's ninja-like fight style which personified him in the scene within the generator. His movements were iconic and his menacing cocksure attitude is very memorable. However, the most dynamic poses of a character may not be well suited for packaging. A full body pose, which would be desirable for Maul, becomes busy from a distance (bad for packaging). In addition, Maul carries the weight of having human facial characteristics. Unlike a clone trooper or the helmet of Darth Vader, you must nail the expression perfectly. The pose and expression chosen for this year's line look captures Maul as he stalks his victims -- you see his hatred for the Jedi and his confidence that he will succeed in vanquishing them both!"