LEGO and Nintendo: A Match Made in Brick Heaven
For several years, LEGO and Nintendo's creative partnership has yielded some of LEGO's most innovative and accessible sets. Initially, a clear distinction existed between sets aimed at children (Super Mario playsets, blending digital and physical play) and adults (iconic, nostalgic replicas).
However, LEGO has cleverly blurred this line. Newer children's sets are more complex, while adult sets embrace a more whimsical, cartoonish aesthetic. This broad appeal perfectly aligns with Nintendo's family-friendly brand.
6+ | 218 Pieces | $49.99 at Target
This starter set includes the essential LED Mario figure, a Yoshi figure, and Bowser Jr. in a Clown Car. It's the foundation for other expansion sets.
7+ | 174 Pieces | $19.99 at Amazon
Compatible with the interactive Mario figure, this affordable set features a classic kart, glider, Toad, and shell-launching mechanisms.
9+ | 1392 Pieces | $119.99 at Amazon
A whimsical train led by a giant Bowser head, complete with six villainous passengers.
18+ | 540 Pieces | $47.95 at Amazon (20% off $59.99)
A charming and surprisingly affordable Piranha Plant build.
18+ | 1125 Pieces | $79.99 at Amazon
A delightful diorama of Green Hill Zone 1, perfect for adult beginner builders.
7+ | 535 Pieces | $59.95 at Amazon (20% off $74.99)
Features Tom Nook's shop and Rosie's cottage, expanding the Animal Crossing LEGO universe.
7+ | 292 Pieces | $37.99 at Amazon
Includes a seaplane, dock, and Wilbur and Tangy minifigures.
18+ | 1215 Pieces | $129.99 at Amazon
A nostalgic build with moving parts, featuring Mario and Yoshi.
18+ | 2500 Pieces | $299.99 at LEGO Store
A 2-in-1 set allowing construction of the Great Deku Tree from either Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild.
18+ | 2807 Pieces | $269.99 at Amazon
A massive, impressive Bowser build, considered one of LEGO's finest Nintendo creations.
LEGO Nintendo's Expanding Universe:
As of January 2025, the LEGO Nintendo lineup includes 34 Super Mario, 18 Sonic the Hedgehog, 10 Animal Crossing, and 1 Legend of Zelda sets.
The Future of LEGO Nintendo:
The Mighty Bowser, marketed as a standalone set, signifies a shift towards designs that transcend the traditional child/adult divide. The focus is now on engaging builds and impressive displays, regardless of age group. This return to LEGO's core strengths—the joy of building—promises a bright future for the collaboration.
The evolution of LEGO Super Mario sets showcases a return to prioritizing the building experience itself, resulting in more substantial and detailed sets. This focus on the core appeal of LEGOs bodes well for future collaborations.