Returning to the Spider-Verse: A Digital Detour from a LEGO Dark Age

Thorsten Bonsch, also known as Xenomurphy, rekindled his passion for LEGO and Spider-Man by creating a digital build inspired by the Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Collectible Minifigure Series. This project marked a return to LEGO for Bonsch after a period of reduced activity, during which he explored 3D visualization using software like Blender, DAZ 3D, and Unreal Engine. The project evolved into a deeply personal, months-long digital build that blended LEGO, film, memory, and experimentation.

Bonsch's connection to Spider-Man dates back to his youth, with his older brother introducing him to the comics and animated series. This project is dedicated to his brother, Frank. In 2016, Bonsch built his first MOC based on Miles Morales, who he had been following since 2011. The digital build was conceived after the BrickNerd team asked Bonsch to write an article about the LEGO CMF series based on the movie 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse'.

Facing a smaller parts collection and a reluctance to spend on LEGO, Bonsch turned to 3D software to create the MOC digitally. The initial plan involved building in BrickLink Studio and rendering images with and without placeholder minifigures. This approach allowed him to overcome the limitations of his physical collection and combine his new interest in 3D software with his love for LEGO and Spider-Man.

For LEGO fans looking to get back into building, consider a LEGO storage organizer to keep your bricks organized.