BD-1 Buddy Droid Puppet

While playing the new videogame Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order I fell in love with the little droid companion they give you. BD-1 is a small bipedal droid that looks like a mix between an AT-ST and a pair of macro-binoculars. I joined a Facebook BD-1 builders group where hundreds of builders collaborated on a 3D-printed version of the droid. I decided I wanted to take the project in a different direction.

Modifying Michael Badeley’s 3D files I removed all of the servo electronics and attached linkage-driven puppet controls. There were a hundred small challenges in this build to solve. It’s been a rewarding journey.

I took BD-1 to Star Wars Celebration Anaheim in 2022. It was an amazing week as I puppeted BD around the show floor each day. Bringing joy and wonder to Star Wars fans both young and old.

JFO Cosplay meetup at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022

BD-1 from Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

BD-1 from Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

My Puppet BD-1

Photos

Phase 1 - Cardboard Proof of Concept

Phase 1 - Cardboard Proof of Concept

Phase 2 - LEGO Technic leg mechanism test

Phase 2 - LEGO Technic leg mechanism test