engine removal........special tools required?
 

are there any special (or handy to have) tool needed to remove a blob wrx engine? AC or fuel lines for example?

10mm Allen key to remove the pin for the clutch fork. Not a bad job really.

cool, how are the fuel and AC lines removed?

Just unbolt the AC compressor from engine and move to one side when lifting the engine out - no need to de-gas or touch the lines.
Fuel lines - undo clips and spray a little WD40 between rubber hose and steel stub and work loose ( can be v tight )