Lego Is Now ‘More Violent And Full Of Weapons’ Than Ever

Despite being a hit with children and parents across the globe, Lego is apparently more violent and stuffed full of dangerous weapons than it has ever been.

Researchers from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand claim that the building brick products are less “innocent” than they used to be.

They say that more war-like scenarios were being featured in theme kits and weapons were now commonplace in 30% of product sets.

Lead researcher Christop Bartneck said: “The Lego company’s products are not as innocent as they used to be.

“The violence in Lego products seems to have gone beyond just enriching game play.”

Examining Lego catalogues from 1973 to 2015, the research stated in online journal PLOS ONE: “Currently, around 40% of all pages contain some type of violence - in particular, scenarios involving shooting and threatening behaviour have increased over the years.

Weapons: The researchers say Lego has entered an ‘arms race’ (Rex)

“The atmosphere of the violent acts is predominantly perceived as exciting.”

The team say the increased violence is down to Lego’s attempt to maintain children’s attention in the digital age.

The study added: “To catch the attention of their customers, toy manufacturers are similarly locked in a metaphorical arms race for exciting new products.”

Lego spokesman Troy Taylor said that the company’s products were simply reflective of how a child develops.

He said: “As with other play types, conflict play is a natural part of a child’s development.

“We always try and use humour where possible as it helps tone down the level of conflict.”

Top pic: Rex