Feb.2, 2014
In collaboration with the well-known Danish toy manufacturer Lego search engine giant Google has built a web app that allows online users to build 3D models using Lego bricks.
If you are AFOLs (adult fans of LEGOs) you are going to love it. The developers call it "the largest LEGO set the world has ever seen." Google has launched a new website dubbed "Build With Chrome", which allows users to create virtual 3D structures using any shape and color in the LEGO catalog.
Google started this experiment back in 2012 with a team in Australia and now it is open to everybody, so you can publish your creations to any plot of land in the world. Google has added a few new features to make it easier to build and explore this digital world of LEGO creations.
The interface is very easy to use, with both button and keyboard controls. But don't expect a Minecraft-like experience because the block selection is limited - there are only 14 "bricks" and 7 "extras" -- e.g. doors and windows. But this site could be a good first introduction to 3D modeling.
Once your building is done, LEGO models can be saved and shared with other users using Google+. Google say that the app uses a "new categorization system for completed Builds [that] will help you sort and filter for specific types of structures."
The site is optimized for mobile and can work on "a touchscreen on your phone or tablet with Chrome for Android support for WebGL on devices with high-end graphics capabilities." says Google.
The site also includes the Build Academy, a series of short tutorials and challenges where you train to become a Master Builder. Starting with the basics, you'll face a series of building challenges in different locations. Along the way, players can unlock new LEGO bricks and colors.
To give it a try, visit the website here and start building!
Posted in 3D Software
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Just in case you weren't aware, there's a PC Lego designer (Lego Digital Designer, http://ldd.lego.com/en-us/). Very cool that I could use this on the tablet, though. I think I'll stick with the PC version until this one is expanded.
Andreas wrote at 2/3/2014 9:36:16 AM:
Now they just need to add more different bricks, especially from the technics side, implement a physics-engine and let us make engineering challenges. Would definately be fun to have a lego based "Pontifex Bridge Builder" experience where you have to cross a river with a limited amount of bricks and let a lego train run over the bridge to test it. ;-)
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