When plot details began to surface for Star Trek I pointed out my hopes that we get to see the Kobayashi Maru once again. I immediately received a couple emails from people curious about the significance of the test. Well, it looks like now is the time to be in the know, as it has been confirmed that this test will take place in Abrams' upcoming Star Trek.
Kobayashi Maru: Star Trek
The first time we saw the Kobayashi Maru was in Wrath of Khan. The test places a cadet in a no-win situation. Though there is no way to pass the test, it's entire purpose is to test the cadet's character. Here is what goes down:
While on a random patrol, the cadet (who plays captain) receives a distress call from a damaged freighter in the Klingon Neutral Zone. The freighter's support systems are failing, giving the cadet two options.
1. Play it safe and leave the Kobayashi to its fate, which is certain death.
2. Attempt a rescue mission, breaking protocol by entering the Klingon Neutral Zone; something that could result in hostile action.
In Wrath of Khan we watch a cadet attempt a rescue mission. Upon entering the Neutral Zone the cadet is alerted that three Klingon warships are ready to intercept. There is only one outcome, the cadet's ship and crew get blasted into smithereens.
Nobody has ever passed the test, save one - Kirk. Though there was no way to beat the simulation, Kirk found one anyway. Though he later admitted to cheating, he was given a commendation for beating the system.
So how did he pass the test? The original theory was that Kirk reprogrammed the Kobayashi Maru to allow him to successfully complete the rescue mission.
According to AICN, this might not be the case in Abrams' Star Trek. Assuming that Kirk is no avid programmer, the soon to be captain used some of his womanizing skills to get ahead.
Is it an amazing bit of reprogramming? Nope. In true Kirk fashion, he persuades a chick he is banging to alter the simulator so that it is winnable (my source's exact words). He uses pure animal magnetism and his power over the fairer sex to cheat.
What do you think? Sounds as good a reason as any.
Star Trek opens to theaters on December 25th, 2008.
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