When you have toys, all things are possible, including a dream crossover between Star Wars and Star Trek: The Next Generation! In the new episode of Toy Shelf, we finally get to see what happens when Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation starship Enterprise encounters the Dark Lord of the Sith: Darth Vader!

Keep in mind that these are toys that know they are toys. And Vader catches Picard as he goes for more of a cowboy diplomacy by swinging a lightsaber around. It’s pretty much the laser sword of Picard’s dreams, and if Vader was looking to tempt the Captain to the Dark Side of the Force, then he would have a pretty good head start.

But instead of trying to corrupt Picard or serve the interests of a long-dead Empire, Vader encourages him to have fun and argues that it’s alright for sci-fi characters to kickback and enjoy themselves in stories with explosions and cool fights. Picard’s counter argument is that sci-fi has to be high minded debates about philosophy, complex ideas, and diplomacy. Honestly, we don’t think that this Picard really buys his own argument. After just a few seconds of waving the lightsaber around, Picard is willing to walk back centuries of humanity’s self-improvement just to be “a Star Wars.”

Be on the lookout for a cameo appearance from a sci-fi character who has recently come to prominence in summer blockbusters. Picard may be impressed by the newcomer, but Vader isn’t too happy about their new visitor.

What did you think about the latest episode of Toy Shelf? Let’s discuss in the comment section below!