This article is sponsored by LEGO®.
LEGO® and Nintendo’s partnership continues with the release of the LEGO® NES™ set, a 2,646-piece building kit that lets fans construct their own brick-based NES console. Thanks to LEGO®, you can now relive one of the greatest eras in gaming history in a new way!
Following up on LEGO®’s excellent Super Mario™ set, the NES™ kit comes with everything you need for the authentic 8-bit experience The realistic model includes a slot for an NES™ Game Pak as well as a controller deck where you can plug in the wired controller that comes with the set.
While the set doesn’t actually play NES™ games, LEGO® has also included a buildable retro TV, featuring a flat 8-bit Mario™ figure on a scrolling screen as a nice added touch. Simply turn the crank on the side of the adorable TV and watch as your favorite video game plumber makes his way through a level inspired by the original Super Mario Bros.™
This set also works with LEGO®’s Super Mario™ figure. If you place the figure on the action brick on top of the TV, Mario™ will react to what’s happening on screen, delivering sound effects, voice lines, and music from the series. The Super Mario™ figure is sold separately, though.
You can see how it all works in the video below:
While the LEGO® NES™ is aimed at adults, this could also be a great model to build with your kids so that they can enjoy the fun of Super Mario™ too. The set not only comes with easy-to-follow instructions for newcomers but also includes an illustrated booklet that tracks the creation of the NES™ and many classic NES™ games. We can’t think of a better way to cap an excellent LEGO® building session than by diving into some gaming history. Overall, this collector’s item sounds like the perfect way to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Nintendo’s most famous character.
The LEGO® NES™ set will retail for $199.99 or £209.99. Judging by the buzz this set has already received, we suggest you buy your LEGO® NES™ sooner rather than later. You can buy the NES™ set here.
If you’re interested in checking out what other Nintendo goodies LEGO® is working on, the company will be hosting two live events on LEGO.com to celebrate the launch of the NES™ set as well as to detail the new Expansion Sets coming for the LEGO® Super Mario™ figure. The events are happening on Aug. 7 at 5 am ET/11 am CEST and 1 pm ET/7 pm CEST. During both half-hour sessions, you’ll be able to watch two LEGO® designers play with the different Super Mario™ sets. Things MIGHT even get competitive!
At the time of writing, these are the correct timings for the livestream, but these are subject to possible change, so do check LEGO.com for updates.
The LEGO® Super Mario™ figure and Starter Course as well the LEGO® NES™ set are out now. The Super Mario™ Expansion Sets are coming soon.
We’ll keep you updated as we learn more!