Lego has expanded its collection of video game-themed construction sets with a charming new arcade cabinet. This 468-piece set, known as the `Arcade Machine,` became available on August 1st for a price of just $40. While Lego offers many new sets, this particular one stands out as an original Lego creation, not based on an existing gaming platform, yet it`s designed to attract fans of their other gaming-related builds.
Once assembled, the model measures 6 x 4 x 3 inches and cleverly unfolds to reveal a detailed miniature game room. This hidden interior features a cozy sofa, a tiny arcade machine, a classic CRT television, and various decorative elements typical of a gamer`s haven. Notable details include display shelves adorned with three miniature game console boxes and two minifigure-like statues above the couch. Opposite the TV, a sword hangs on the wall, alongside what appears to be a cherished Lego Star Wars starship, likely the result of many hours of building.
This miniature game room is home to a `Gamer Minifigure,` identifiable by his stubble and tousled hair. The set also includes a small game controller accessory for the minifigure to hold.
The included arcade machine is named `Space,` designed as a two-player vertical shoot-em-up. When folded, the red and black cabinet exudes a perfect retro vibe due to its solid, chunky design and thematic stickers. The marquee features classic block lettering, styled to evoke spaceships entering lightspeed, while the screen sticker displays authentic pixelated graphics.
A neat interactive feature allows you to insert coins into the front slots, only for them to return via the coin return, mimicking the experience of trying to use non-standard currency in real arcade machines.
Other Iconic Lego Video Game Hardware Sets
- Lego Icons: Pac-Man Arcade (2,651 pieces) – Priced at $270.
- Lego Game Boy (421 pieces) – Available for preorder at $60, releasing October 1st.
- Lego Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (2,646 pieces) – Originally retailed for $270 but is now retired and may be found for around $330.
- Lego Icons: Atari 2600 (2,532 pieces) – Priced at $240, this set is also retired.
For those interested in building larger arcade models, Lego previously collaborated with Bandai Namco in 2023 to introduce the Lego Icons: Pac-Man Arcade set. This substantial 2,651-piece display model, measuring 12.5 x 10 x 7 inches, boasts several impressive features. These include a functional four-way joystick, an illuminated coin slot, an adjustable game score display, and even a mechanical maze that simulates Pac-Man gameplay. The set also comes with buildable Pac-Man, Blinky, and Clyde figures that can be placed atop the cabinet. An additional, separate miniature arcade with a tiny Pac-Man cabinet and minifigure is also included – perhaps best kept away from the `Gamer Minifigure` to prevent him from trying to incorporate it into his room.
Additionally, Lego recently unveiled a highly anticipated replica of Nintendo’s Game Boy, initially showcased at San Diego Comic-Con. This 421-piece display model includes two buildable game cartridges, three interchangeable lenticular screens, and two display stands. The Lego Game Boy is currently available for preorder at $60, with its official release scheduled for October 1st.
The Game Boy marks Lego`s second Nintendo hardware-themed display set. In 2020, Lego released a 2,646-piece Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), which has since been retired. While initially priced at $270, remaining stock, primarily found on Amazon, now fetches around $330 due to its retired status.
Alongside the NES, Lego also recreated the Atari 2600 console. This 2,532-piece set, originally priced at $240, was also discontinued last year.