Should you buy Anycubic 3D printers?

3D printers are incredibly multifunctional and can fit a variety of different needs. You might just be 3D printing for the love of it, bringing your lovely digital sculptures into meatspace. Alternatively, you can use your printer to create components and accessories for your favorite tabletop games. Whether you’re looking to generate custom heads for your Warhammer 40K army or printing character miniatures for the best tabletop RPGs, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can bring to life with resin or filament.

As mentioned before, Anycubic 3D printers are consistently the top contenders for models we’d recommend to everyone from total beginners to long-time users. Obviously, it’s worth considering which printer most aligns with your budget and needs, but you should be fairly spoiled for choice considering just how many are currently seeing savings at the moment.

Want some inspiration on what to print? Check out our guide to the best Dungeons and Dragons books. Don't miss our roundup of our favorite board games for 2 players or the best card games too.

Unveiled as part of Mario Day (March 10, or 'MAR10'), this kit will hit the tarmac on March 15 and weighs in at almost 2,000 pieces. Unlike the playsets that came out in January, this Lego Mario Kart set is an 18+ display piece that takes a similar approach to one of the best Lego sets around, The Mighty Bowser. That's because it's a lot bigger and is posable.

You can pre-order this kit at Lego right now, but it'll arrive at other retailers soon.

Want more details about the set? I'm digging into it further down the page, so read on if you're interested in finding out what you're getting for your hard-earned coins.

Lego Mario & Standard Kart

Although the surprise was ruined somewhat by a leak, this Lego Mario Kart set is still impressive. Actually, it's a lot better than I'd been expecting. Lego can struggle to avoid the uncanny valley when it comes to humanoids (just look at Chewbacca if you want a case in point), particularly humans. But thanks to the scale and our favorite plumber's cartoonish features, Lego has nailed this assignment. Mario is just as rotund and plump as he should be, and he actually has articulated fingers to wrap around the steering wheel. His face isn't overly blocky either thanks to the use of curved pieces and a ball for his nose.

The kart is just as good. This is a dead ringer for the real deal despite being made of bricks, and the only bad thing I have to say about it is the lack of hover wheels and underwater propellor.

While this is a fair bit smaller than The Might Bowser (it's more in line with the Piranha Plant), it has over 1,900 pieces so isn't a throwaway build. It won't take up as much display space either, and you can personalize him - Mario can also be posed too with a movable head and arms.

You can take a look for yourself when it launches on May 15, 2025.

Want to save some cash along the way? Don't miss these Lego deals.

Should you buy Lego Grogu with Hover Pram?

This set is very similar to the Lego Star Wars The Child set which, while technically a retired product, is currently available for £106 at Amazon.

The Child scored a perfect 5/5 in our review and his Hover Pram version only offers even more to love. Not only do you have a buildable figure of Grogu himself with posable arms, head, and ears, but you also have a Hover Pram that you can display him in and some really stinkin’ cute accessories to boot.

There are two Lego snacks for the peckish little lad to chow down on, including bright blue macaron cookies and a brick-built Sorgan frog. There’s also a shifter knob that the curious fella uses as a makeshift toy.

Completing the set is a Grogu mini-figure and a plaque detailing all the important info we ought to know about this glorious green guy. Crucially, this part of the set reminds me that The Child is 50 years old … which is knowledge I could frankly do without.

On the hunt for present ideas? Check out these Star Wars gifts, Disney gifts, or gifts for gamers that would be perfect to give friends, family, or loved ones.

By contrast, the dinkiest of selection is the 199-piece Lego Jurassic World Rebirth T. Rex River Escape, which includes a fully-articulated T-Rex and mini-figures of Teresa Delgado and Xavier Dobbs and can be pre-ordered for just $49.99 at Lego.

Oddly enough, the set that most interests me is the cheapest of the bunch: Jurassic World Rebirth Baby Dinosaur Dolores: Aquilops for $24.99. It’s not too often you’d associate the rogue dinos of Jurassic World to be cute but this goober is a special exception.

Dolores may be made of hard plastic but those big, shiny eyes make her seem weirdly cuddleable. Those silly little plant-grabbing claws just seal the deal too, she's like the physical embodiment of this video.

I’m starting to see why Jurassic Park founders made the ill-advised decision to bring back the dinosaurs…

For more bricky goodness, don't miss our roundup on the top Lego deals. If you're looking for more buildable nostalgia, check out the best Lego Star Wars sets.

January ended up being one of the busiest months for new Lego sets, and the release schedule was absolutely crammed with kits across a variety of ranges. In fact, a grand total of 24 ranges got reinforcements, with a whopping 140 sets between them.

Chief amongst these were the City and Friends lines, as per usual; they had dozens of new Lego sets each. However, Harry Potter and Star Wars got some good additions too like the adorable Grogu and Hover Pram combo and the mini Diagon Alley diorama.

The real star of January's new Lego sets was Mario Kart, though. Nintendo's premier racing game got the brick treatment at the top of 2025 with karts, courses, and characters ranging from Toad to Donkey Kong. I'm absolutely certain this isn't the last we've seen from Mario Kart, and because some of these are contenders for the best Lego sets already, I can't wait to see what's next.

Want to see what else has come out this year? Check out the new Lego sets in February.

New Lego sets: Animal Crossing

As with every wave of Animal Crossing kits so far, this new round was freakin' adorable. Featuring the likes of the Able Sisters and Celeste, it's downright wholesome. While I have a soft spot for the latter (her stargazing set is incredibly sweet), my standout this month would be the Able Sisters Clothing Shop. It adds to a now-burgeoning town square, making collections feel like a proper community... though it is a little strange that you're only getting one of the sisters here.

• Stargazing with Celeste | View at Lego
• Leif's Caravan & Garden Shop | View at Lego
• Able Sisters Clothing Shop | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Art

There's just one Art kit in January's roundup, and it's the obligatory Valentine's Day build. Is it the most exciting new Lego set in January? Not necessarily. However, it was an adorable date idea for February 14 itself.

• Love | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Botanicals

Following a quick name change, the Lego flowers range was bolstered with three new additions this month. I adore the Pink Flower Bouquet because it's perfect for dibbling in with other entries in the series to freshen existing arrangements.

• Pretty Pink Flower Bouquet | View at Lego
• Mini Orchid | View at Lego
• Lucky Bamboo | View at Lego

New Lego sets: BrickHeadz

Just look at him - even in miniature, that Tom has mischief in his eyes. Or maybe it's the stick of dynamite in his paw? Anyway, these iconic cartoon mascots take center stage by virtue of being the only new Lego Brickheadz set in January. Still, they're notable in that Jerry is a normal size while Tom is smaller than usual. Y'know, due to him being a mouse and all.

• Tom & Jerry Figures | View at Lego

New Lego sets: City

OK, this is where things get busy. As per usual, the City range isn't content with adding one or two new kits to the series; it's dropping over a dozen at once. For January, that includes a lot of F1 tie-ins.

In terms of the kit I'd make a beeline for, it'd be the Modular Galactic Spaceship. That design is beautiful and I'd have gone nuts for it as a kid - particularly because you can remake it as you see fit.

• F1 Driver with McLaren Race Car | View at Lego
• F1 Pit Stop & Pit Crew with Ferrari Car | View at Lego
• F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Cars | View at Lego
• F1 Truck with RB20 & AMR24 F1 Cars | View at Lego
• Modular Galactic Spaceship | View at Lego
• Off-Road 4x4 Mountain Truck | View at Lego
• Red Sports Car | View at Lego
• Yellow Construction Wheel Loader | View at Lego
• Emergency Ambulance | View at Lego
• Donut Truck | View at Lego
• Lifeguard Beach Rescue Truck | View at Lego
• Holiday Adventure Camper Van | View at Lego
• Pizza vs. Fire Truck Race Car Pack | View at Lego
• Airplane vs. Hospital Bed Race Car Pack | View at Lego
• No Limits: Race Car Ramp Track | View at Lego
• Red Farm Tractor with Trailer & Sheep | View at Lego
• Helicopter, Fire Truck & Submarine Remix | View at Lego
• Fire Ladder Truck | View at Lego
• F1 Williams Racing & Haas F1 Race Cars | View at Lego
• Scrapyard with Cars | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Classic

We've not had a big Classic drop for a while, and these kits have more than enough personality to make up for it. I'm a fan of the dinosaur set due to simultaneously cute / derpy they look, though I've got a soft spot for the Food Friends kit thanks to how gosh-darn cheerful it is.

• Creative Food Friends | View at Lego
• Creative Dinosaurs | View at Lego
• Creative Happy Box | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Creator 3-in-1

January was a very eventful month for the Creator series, with a plethora of animals scurrying onto shelves. While I've got a lot of time for the typewriter (I'm old-school like that), I'd be lying if I said the Medieval Dragon hadn't won my heart. If I was using Lego to play D&D, it'd be the perfect monster.

• Wild Animals: Surprising Spider | View at Lego
• Aircraft: Race Plane | View at Lego
• Medieval Dragon | View at Lego
• Cute Bunny | View at Lego
• Playful Cat | View at Lego
• Space Robot | View at Lego
• Wild Animals: Panda Family | View at Lego
• Typewriter with Flowers | View at Lego

New Lego sets: DC

The universe of Batman and Superman has finally received a fresh wave of Lego, and it's hopefully the start of many in 2025 thanks to the arrival of Superman this summer. As a huge Dark Knight fan, it shouldn't come as any surprise that I'm gravitating toward the Tumbler kit; it recreates the iconic Nolan-verse vehicle for a fraction of the cost and size of sets we've seen before.

• Batman & Batmobile vs. Mr. Freeze | View at Lego
• Superman Mech vs. Lex Luthor | View at Amazon
• Batman Tumbler vs. Two-Face & The Joker | View at Amazon

New Lego sets: Disney

Although the likes of Twirling Ariel are sweet (it seems to be based on a music box), I rather like Moana's Adventure Canoe. Sure, Cinderella's Castle is an equally large and impressive kit, but I love the sense of exploration the former provides.

• Anna's Sleigh Adventure | View at Lego
• Twirling Ariel | View at Lego
• Moana's Island Fun | View at Lego
• Encanto Mini House | View at Lego
• Arendelle Frozen Castle | View at Lego
• Moana's Adventure Canoe | View at Lego
• Cinderella's Castle & Horse Carriage | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Dreamzzz

There were some eye-catching kits in January, but this is GamesRadar+ and that means I can't choose anything other than the controller jet. It's a really fun blend of the practical with the imaginative, which is what this range is all about.

• Z-Blob's Robot and Vehicle Adventures | View at Lego
• Bunchu's Creative Animal Adventures | View at Lego
• Cooper's Gaming Controller Jet | View at Lego
• Izzie and Bunchurro the Gaming Bunny | View at Lego
• Mateo and the Z-Blob Action Race Car | View at Lego
• Cooper's Tiger Mech & Zero's Hot Rod Car | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Friends

Much like the City range, Friends tends to get a ton of kits all at once - and that was the case in January. I was originally going to flag the Guinea Pig Playground (because, cute) or the treehouse (I'm a sucker for those), but I can't do the Heartlake City Apartments and Stores a disservice like that. It's a pretty stunning tableau that brings the hilly streets of San Francisco to mind.

• Guinea Pig Playground | View at Lego
• Surfing Dogs and Scooter Adventure | View at Lego
• Cotton Candy Stand and Scooter | View at Lego
• Heartlake City Ice Cream Truck | View at Lego
• Aliya's Baby Sister's Playroom | View at Lego
• Autumn's Room | View at Lego
• Paisley's Room | View at Lego
• Heartlake City Candy Store | View at Lego
• Pet Accessories Shop | View at Lego
• Horse and Pet Vet Clinic | View at Lego
• Friendship Tree House Hangout | View at Lego
• Restaurant and Cooking School | View at Lego
• Heartlake City Airport and Airplane | View at Lego
• Hair Salon and Accessories Store | View at Lego
• Friendship Camper Van Adventure | View at Lego
• Beekeepers' House and Flower Garden | View at Lego
• Heartlake City Apartments and Stores | View at Lego
• Creative Beach and Travel Suitcase | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Harry Potter

There are some very iconic moments included in January's Harry Potter roundup (from "Leviosaaaah" to Harry and Malfoy's duel in Chamber of Secrets), but the Triwizard Cup goes to the Diagon Alley diorama in my opinion. This miniaturizes what had been a massive set beforehand, and it captures the location's look perfectly despite being so small.

• Hogwarts Castle: Dueling Club | View at Lego
• Hogwarts Castle: Charms Class | View at Lego
• Hagrid & Harry's Motorcycle Ride | View at Lego
• Diagon Alley Wizarding Shops | View at Lego
• Hogwarts Castle: Flying Lessons | View at Lego
• Malfoy Manor | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Icons

There are a few Icons kits hitting shelves in January, and I adore the returning Blacktron classic ship build that fans of a certain vintage may remember. I'm going to shout about the Tudor Corner modular building too, because this would look fantastic combined with a City build, or Lego's many festive kits.

• Tudor Corner | View at Lego
• Blacktron Renegade | View at Lego
• Fountain Garden | View at Lego
• Leonardo Da Vinci's Flying Machine | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Jurassic World

I was a huge fan of last year's T-rex skull, so getting another display piece - a triceratops this time - is definitely going to grab my attention.

• Little Eatie: T. rex | View at Lego
• Dinosaur Fossils: Triceratops Skull | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Marvel

As always, Marvel's kits this month are a great fit for either adult fans who want something cool to display or kids that are eager for new toys. The one I'm most drawn to is the airport battle from Civil War, because it recreates an iconic MCU moment.

• Spin and Electro Dinosaur Vehicle Chase | View at Lego
• Team Spidey Dino Crawler Rescue | View at Lego
• Spidey and Gobby's Raptor Battle at Tree House HQ | View at Lego
• Iron Man Mech vs. UItron | View at Lego
• Spider-Man Mech vs. Anti-Venom | View at Lego
• Spider-Man vs. Venom Muscle Car | View at Lego
• Iron Man Car & Black Panther vs. Red Hulk | View at Lego
• Spider-Verse: Miles Morales vs. The Spot | View at Lego
• Marvel Logo & Minifigures | View at Lego
• Captain America: Civil War Action Battle | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Minecraft

It was a big start to 2025 for Minecraft, with multiple new kits of varying sizes. I'm a fan of the Armadillo Mine Expedition because it looks like the kind of location you'd find wandering around in the video game itself.

• The Nether Lava Battle | View at Lego
• The Illager Desert Patrol | View at Lego
• The Baby Pig House | View at Lego
• The Armadillo Mine Expedition | View at Lego
• The Mooshroom House | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Minifigures

A new year means new minifigures, and series 27 is upon us. This one includes pirates, monsters, steampunk gentlemen, and more.

• Series 27 | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Monkie Kid

It was a quieter month so far as Monkie Kid was concerned, but that doesn't mean its kits weren't hugely impressive. Look at that mech, for instance. Besides being massive, it's a rather magnificent golden behemoth.

• Erlang's Celestial Mech | View at Lego
• Mythical Creature Qilin | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Ninjago

There are some very cool kits like the Super Storm Jet this month, but honestly, I'm charmed by the cross between Lego and Beyblades that are the Spinjitzu Spinners. I'd be very surprised if self-respecting kids didn't eat that right up.

• Kai's Dragon Spinjitzu Spinner | View at Lego
• Sora's Dragon Spinjitzu Spinner | View at Lego
• Dragon Spinjitzu Battle Pack | View at Lego
• Zane's Battle Mech Suit | View at Lego
• Lloyd's Pull-Back Race Car | View at Lego
• Lloyd's Green Forest Dragon | View at Lego
• Kai's Mech Storm Rider | View at Lego
• Ninja Spinjitzu Temple | View at Lego
• Ras and Arin's Super Storm Jet | View at Lego
• Zane's Ultra Combiner Mech | View at Lego
• Dragonian Storm Village | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Sonic the Hedgehog

Aw man, I would have gone nuts for sets like this when I was a kid. I would have particularly liked the Super Shadow set, because the hedgehogs going gold Super Saiyan always appealed to me.

• Sonic's Campfire Clash | View at Lego
• Cyclone vs. Metal Sonic | View at Lego
• Super Shadow vs. Biolizard | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Star Wars

Any releases from a galaxy far, far away are going to be a big deal, and this month gave us some doozies. While I'll always make a fuss over Clone Wars-related kits, I can't go any further without drawing attention to the smaller Grogu in his hover-crib. What an absolute cutie.

• Ahsoka's Jedi Interceptor | View at Lego
• ARC-170 Starfighter | View at Lego
• Grogu with Hover Pram | View at Lego
• Acclamator-Class Assault Ship | View at Lego
• Home One Starcruiser | View at Lego
• Mando and Grogu's N-1 Starfighter | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Super Mario

It was all about Mario Kart in January, and the iconic Nintendo game was represented by six impressive kits that brought the franchise to blocky life. I love how alternate karts are provided separately, allowing you to make your perfect racer and their wheels.

• Mario Kart - Yoshi Bike | View at Lego
• Mario Kart - Standard Kart | View at Lego
• Mario Kart - Donkey Kong & DK Jumbo | View at Lego
• Mario Kart - Baby Mario vs. Baby Luigi | View at Lego
• Mario Kart - Toad's Garage | View at Lego
• Mario Kart - Baby Peach & Grand Prix Set | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Technic

Although I'd usually associate Technic with more complex kits like the Ducati Panigale V4 S, January shows that it's partial to playsets too. Do I love the Monster Jam ones because they're rather punny, with big dad-joke energy? You betcha.

• Backhoe Loader | View at Lego
• Bush Plane | View at Lego
• Monster Jam DIGatron Pull-Back | View at Lego
• Monster Jam ThunderROARus Pull-Back | View at Lego
• Deep Sea Research Submarine | View at Lego
• Ducati Panigale V4 S Motorcycle | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Other

With the Spring Festival just around the corner for January, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the seasonal range was full of matching sets. They're absolutely stunning. Naturally, there's some Valentine's Day representation here too...

• Trotting Lantern | View at Lego
• Good Fortune | View at Lego
• Lucky Cat | View at Lego
• Love Bears | View at Lego
• Sweetheart Tweety Bird | View at Lego

For more bricky goodness, why not check out the best Lego Star Wars sets? As for cheaper kits, don't miss the best Lego deals this month.

Busy months are usually followed by quiet ones when it comes to new Lego sets, and that was the case in February. The release schedule was pretty subdued on the whole.

That doesn't mean there aren't new Lego sets to get excited about, though. A handful of Disney kits, a handsome flower arrangement, Valentine's Day gifts, and seasonal Easter kits have been wheeled out this month... alongside a scene-stealing Twilight recreation that lets you bring the Cullen House home. While many of this month's kits are unlikely to rank amongst the best Lego sets, the Twilight kit just might; it's a tremendously detailed build that has plenty of Easter eggs for fans, not to mention plenty of minifigures.

Not that the other February releases are lacking, of course - they're still fun additions to a collection. I particularly enjoy the new Dumbo BrickHeadz figure, for example. It somehow manages to capture the character's adorable look perfectly despite only having 176 bricks and studs to work with.

Want to see what else has been out this year so far? Drop in on our guide to new Lego sets in January.

New Lego sets: Botanicals

There's only one Botanical Collection set landing in February, but it's a doozy. Along with being one of the most expensive kits so far, it's also amongst the biggest at over 1,100 pieces. When accompanied by the Lego vase that's included within the box, it looks really rather smart. Is it smaller than I expected? Yeah. But gosh, is it beautiful.

• Flower Arrangement | View at Lego

New Lego sets: BrickHeadz

It was a good month if you were a BrickHeadz fan; there were three new kits available this February. These ones are all Disney-based, and they go from old-school to fairly modern. I think the Dumbo one is my favorite, though - it perfectly captures the adorable elephant's look.

• Dumbo | View at Lego
• Eeyore | View at Lego
• Red Panda Mei | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Ideas

This one is honestly a surprise - I never expected to see a Twilight kit hit the shelves. Based on an Ideas design from the community, the Cullen House set recreates this vampire family's home in 2,001 pieces. It's a beautiful building that forms an impressive piece of aesthetic design in and of itself, so is likely worth a look even if you aren't a fan of sparkly bloodsuckers.

• Twilight The Cullen House | View at Lego

New Lego sets: Other

Easter was on its way in early February, and you know what that means - tie-in Lego kits. This time around we got a Fabergé-style egg (decked out with a crystal on the top) and an egg hunt featuring some very rotund creatures. I'm rather keen on the latter, because it forms its own mini scene.

• Decorative Easter Egg | View at Lego
• Easter Bunny and Chick Egg Hunt | View at Lego

Want more? Don't miss the best Lego Star Wars sets. You can also build up your collection for less with the best Lego deals this month.

This new Lego Disney set brings the animated movie's enchanted castle to life in almost 3,000 pieces, and it includes ten minifigures as well. You're getting Belle and Beast in their ballroom attire, of course, but Gaston, LeFou, and Belle's dad Maurice are included too. Then there are the castle's occupants - Lumière, Fifi (the feather duster), Cogsworth, Chip, and Mrs. Potts. The chatty cabinet from Belle's room is also included.

Speaking of which, many of the castle's major spaces are included here; there's Beast's room with its enchanted rose, Belle's room, the dining room, and the ballroom (which can be removed to display on its own).

Lego Beauty and the Beast Castle is available on April 4, 2025, and although it isn't available for pre-order just yet, you'll be able to secure a copy via the Lego store in just a few weeks. Namely, members of the free Lego Insiders program (which just requires you to sign up) can get their hands on it from April 1.

Lego Beauty and the Beast Castle

Although it's a facade like most Lego buildings (the better to spin it round and peek at the rooms inside), this is a chunky set that gives the Disney Castle a run for its money. For context, that set - which has 4,837 pieces and is based on the Walt Disney World building - is only 10 inches taller.

As always, there are plenty of neat Easter eggs tucked away in the build as well. These range from the Beast's torn portrait of his human form, his mystical mirror, the stained glass rose window atop his tower, and a ballroom floor that spins to make it look as if Belle and Beast are waltzing. This is similar to the aforementioned Disney Castle with its many rooms dedicated to different Disney princesses.

As a general Disney nut and Lego fan, I'm excited by this build - and it makes me eager to see what Lego would do with the likes of Rapunzel's tower in Tangled. Surely it's only a matter of time.

For more bricky goodness, don't miss these Lego deals or the best Lego Star Wars sets.

But of course, the T-Rex is the real star of the show. Not only does this dino sport loads of lovely detail, but it also has articulated joints in its head, arms, jaw, and tail that allow you to pose it however you please. That might result in a classy, Smithsonian-Museum-style setup but also you might feel compelled to sick your zombie dinosaur on some poor, unsuspecting mini-figs hiding in a jeep. Either way, no judgment here.

It’s tough to fully grasp the full scale of a 12.9-inch tall Lego dinosaur. To help you, I’ll say that it’s about the height of a particularly large corgi. With that comparison in mind, it makes a lot of sense why the model in the product images seems to be petting the dino so tenderly. This big boney baby is sure to fill the pet-sized hole in anyone’s heart, and I dare say your landlord won’t be able to argue against that – after all, the only thing this Lego T-Rex sheds is the occasional plastic brick.

Looking for some bargains on the bricks from Billund? Check out our roundup of the best Lego deals. The best Lego Star Wars sets should be right up your alley too. For a change of pace, drop by this list of our favorite gifts for gamers.

Lego Stargazing with Celeste (77053) features

• The smallest boxed set yet
• Incredibly optimized
• The only way to get Celeste

The Stargazing with Celeste Lego set includes, if you can believe it, a minifigure of Celeste as well as a telescope, a tea set, a massive, dominating moon, and some star fragments.Unlike some of the other sets in the Animal Crossing line, there's no definitive building or similar that's associated with Celeste. There's honestly not much to it, though Celeste does have a fancy little constellation chart she can hold.

Build

• Extremely simple
• Large moon that looms with many pieces
• Slightly unrelated modules

It's honestly hard to say much about the actual build of the Stargazing with Celeste Lego set due to the simple fact that the build itself is so straightforward and quick. In all honesty, it's taken me roughly three times longer to think of how to accurately review the build of the set than it did to actually make it.

The Animal Crossing line of Lego sets typically has some kind of core piece that takes up a majority of the bricks while including a number of odds and ends straight from the video games – and more specifically, the latest video game, New Horizons. Stargazing with Celeste has… Celeste. And some star fragments. It's not fancy, or complex, but it's nice.

Design

• Massive oversized moon
• Fun telescope
• Cute minifig

Perhaps due to the size, the actual design of Stargazing with Celeste is something of an awkward mishmash. It's hard to develop a meaningful thematic relevance with so few Lego bricks, and while there's an overall "here's some celestial objects" vibe to the build, it's kind of otherwise unrelated.

But maybe this is just my general disdain for the relative footprint of the set's moon. There are only 78 pieces in Stargazing with Celeste, and a large number of those are devoted to an oversized moon that sits in the middle of it all. If you ignore the big yellow centerpiece, there's really not that much to the rest of it.

On the other hand, this is perhaps colored by having the rest of the Animal Crossing line. Taken on its own, the moon maybe ties the whole set together by drawing the eye to the middle while also making it clear what, exactly, the theme unmistakably is. It's also maybe the cheapest set that doesn't look completely unusual all by its lonesome.

Should you buy Lego Stargazing with Celeste?

If you want a cheap and easy-to-make Animal Crossing set, a stocking filler present, or perhaps a straightforward kit that will introduce your child to Lego, Stargazing with Celeste should hit the spot. It's also worth grabbing if you're a fan of Celeste herself, because her minifigure isn't available anywhere else.

However, anyone expecting an especially fulfilling or ambitious build should look elsewhere.

Ratings

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego Stargazing with Celeste

This set was built over the course of a single session and took around 15 minutes to complete. With no distractions, it would have likely taken an even shorter amount of time. Additionally, the set was directly compared to other single sets in the same line as well as a whole as part of the line in total.

Want to build you collection for less? Check out these Lego deals.

The additional special features included in both seasons are, however, a little disappointing. Maybe this is just my experience with companies like Discotek absolutely stuffing its releases full of odds and ends, but the fact that each season of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury includes only textless, clean opening and endings as well as a promo video is frankly disappointing. If you're looking for bells and whistles, best look elsewhere (like in our guide to the best gifts for gamers).

Beyond grabbing the Steelbooks for both seasons as collector items, which is a perfectly reasonable thing to do, picking up the Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury Blu-rays makes for the best way to actually watch the entire series. The whole show is represented on the four total discs between the two Steelbooks, including the prologue episode.

As someone that watched all of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury while it was airing via Crunchyroll's streaming service, it's honestly shocking how much crisper and smoother the show plays through the pressed physical discs. Rationally, I know and have known that this is the case; I own hundreds of DVDs and Blu-rays. But the difference here is impressive.

I'd had my eyes on the Blu-rays long before they were provided to me for coverage purposes, and in my opinion Witch From Mercury is easily one of the best modern incarnations of the Gundam franchise, if not the best. These Steelbooks are the best way to actually watch the series, and that makes them easy to recommend to anyone that might be interested even if the actual physical packaging isn't particularly exciting.

Should you buy Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury steelbooks?

The reason to buy these Steelbooks, separately or together, is to own a physical copy of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury. The packaging is nice enough, but certainly not the key selling point, and the lack of any real special features to speak of means that it all comes down to the anime series itself. For my money, Witch From Mercury is Gundam at its best, and makes for an easy recommendation, but if you're not traditionally a fan of mecha it might be a tougher sell.

This review was made using a sample provided by the publisher.

Recreating the Supply Llama in Lego is a tricky prospect, as it has a particularly distinctive look from being covered in many layers of colored paper strips. However, the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama (77071) set rises to that challenge and does a great job, while squeezing in some surprises too. If you're a fan of Fortnite, it's one of the best Lego sets you can add to your collection.

Lego Supply Llama (77071) features

• Affordable price
• Good size for display
• Contains hidden loot!

Unlike some other models in this series, the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama sits at a nice mid-range price point. This makes it considerably cheaper than the 'premium' Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) and Lego Fortnite Peely Bone (77072) sets, though you still get almost 700 pieces to work with.

The Lego Fortnite Supply Llama stands at roughly 9.5in (24cm) tall, so you can happily display it on a shelf to be visible without being overbearing. If space is limited then it only measures around 6.5in (16cm) from snout to tail and less than 3in (8cm) wide, meaning it can easily slot into a smaller space.

Probably the most interesting feature of the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama is the inclusion of hidden loot, which tucks away within a hollow body cavity accessed by a hatch that swings open on its back. By releasing small catches, panels on each side swing open to spill the secret booty, though you'll need to give the llama a shake to get it all out. The loot items included are a Grappler, Slurp Juice, Rough Ruby, Back Pack, Good Luck Charm, Slap Juice, and Dynamite – if, like me, you aren't familiar with all of these then rest assured that they are all featured in the Lego Fortnite Odyssey survival crafting experience!

Build

• A fun build that includes an interactive element
• Instructions are easy to follow
• Some very fiddly steps with small pieces

This isn't a particularly challenging build, and during the earlier 'internal' stages the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama contains all manner of red, yellow, and green blocks that can't be seen in the finished model, but this color scheme help to ensure everything is orientated correctly for the body section. There are just over 200 steps in total to complete the build, and although many feature a combination of blue, cyan, lilac, and purple pieces I was never confused about what needed to go where.

However, it should be noted that a few of these steps are particularly fiddly. The layers of colored paper strips covering the outside of the piñata are mainly recreated using small 1x1 roof tile pieces, and there are over one hundred of these to attach in total, plus the same number again across a couple of 1x2 sloping pieces.

It is quite wearying having to slot so many tiny pieces into place, and those with fine motor skill issues may struggle with this part of the build. As a counterpoint, there are only three stickers to apply and two are quite large, so at least that's one less fiddly job to complete.

Design

• Realistic replica of the in-game item
• Poseable head for different moods
• Stable despite its tiny legs

Every Fortnite player knows what a Supply Llama looks like as it's the iconic mascot of the battle royale, but when you compare the in-game version to this model the attention to detail really is striking. Everything matches up flawlessly, from the chunky body proportions to the color scheme with the correct number of stripes to the derpy underbite and stubby little legs. On that last point, this model could have been quite unstable stood on those accurately small limbs, but some clever hidden hinges mean that they splay outwards and lock in place to provide an impressively solid base. The neck, ears, and jaw are also hinged so you can post the head in various positions, so your Supply Llama can be quietly contemplating life or screaming at the sky.

The hidden loot compartment is a fun interactive feature, and the items all slide out with a little shake once you open the side hatches. However, it can be tricky to pack everything back into that compartment again and get the top hatch closed as it's a tight fit, so you do have to put some thought into what goes where rather than just tipping the items into the hole. Personally I would have preferred the side 'stirrup' catches to fold flat against the side hatches they're holding closed rather than sticking out, but I'm just nit-picking at this point.

Should you buy the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama (77071)?

If you love the battle royale then this is a fun if fiddly build of the iconic Fortnite piñata, that will become an instantly recognizable part of your collection. The hidden loot compartment is a cool interactive element you can surprise people with, and the ruffled surface makes it stand out from other typically flat models.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama (77071)

I constructed the Lego Fortnite Supply Llama (77071) set in a single sitting, which took me around three and a half hours in total with a couple of quick breaks along the way. The six individual bags of parts means there are plenty of clear stopping points, though unless you're pressed for time it shouldn't take more than one or two sessions to build this set.

For more, check out our guide to how we test products.

Looking for the perfect present for fans of a galaxy far, far away? Don't miss these Star Wars gifts or the best Star Wars board games.

Lego Fly with Dodo Airlines features

• A lot of complexity for few bricks
• Shockingly cute plane
• Compact little airport with details

As the name implies, the Flying With Dodo Airlines Lego set includes the Dodo Airlines building, dock, plane, and a bunch of associated accessories like little lifebuoys to a surprisingly involved potted plant to a simple tower control and ticket counter. The flag on the dock includes a bunch of extra pieces of the box in order to customize it as you see fit, which is a nice touch.

In terms of minifigures, this one comes with Wilbur and Tangy. While it makes sense to include the pilot and a potential passenger in the set, it's unfortunate to not also include Orville, the other dodo that traditionally is the one to run the ticket counter at Dodo Airlines.

Build

• Shockingly small number of pieces
• Lots of fine pieces
• No complicated, fiddly bits

The entire set is a relatively easy build, taking only 1.5 hours for me, start to finish. In fact, the most complicated part of putting Fly With Dodo Airlines together is actually only encountered if you try to get creative with the airport's flag. There are multiple possible options for what to add to that in order to get a finished product, leaning on the customization inherent to such items in the modern Animal Crossing games. If you follow the basic instructions, it's easy enough, but the moment you diverge off the beaten path, so to speak, is when it gets a bit hairy thanks to the large amount of small pieces involved. If you like to get creative, this won't be one of the best Lego sets.

Design

• Small footprint, big impact
• Customizable flag
• A scale that works

While the dock and building are technically a larger overall build, the real star of the Fly with Dodo Airlines Lego set is obviously the plane itself. Because of the scale, it's not particularly big, but it's simple to build and serves its purpose admirably. It's not going to blow anyone away, but it perfectly fits the vibe of the various Animal Crossing sets.

It's also pretty clearly meant to serve as the highlight of the set. The rest of Fly with Dodo Airlines is a simplified version of the Animal Crossing: New Horizons', well, Dodo Airlines. It'll be immediately recognizable to anyone that has played the popular video game, and its function is certainly clear even to those that lack that familiarity: it's a small dockside airport complete with ticketing counter.

If there is one unfortunate aspect to the Flying With Dodo Airlines Lego set, it's that the very nature of it somewhat calls for a small island or two. Given the entire point of Dodo Airlines in the video game is to travel to different islands, owned by other players and not, it would have made sense to include some small amount of additional setting beyond the airline building and plane. The Lego Kapp'n's Island Boat Tour kit could have just been Kapp'n and his boat and dock, but it actually includes a whole beachside scenario that isn't exactly replicated for Dodo Airlines.

Should you buy Lego Fly with Dodo Airlines?

This might not be anyone's first choice when looking at the Animal Crossing range as a whole, and that's a shame; it's a surprisingly good kit which provides maximum brick for buck. If you want a good addition to your existing collection, Lego Fly with Dodo Airlines comes highly recommended.

For those of you who may only buy one Animal Crossing kit, though, I'd recommend looking at Lego Isabelle's House Visit instead.

Ratings

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego Fly with Dodo Airlines

This set was built over the course of a single session and took around 1.5 hours to complete. That was with some distractions in the middle, so it would take a dedicated builder a slightly shorter amount of time. Additionally, the set was directly compared to other single sets in the same line as well as a whole as part of the line in total.

For the cheapest kits possible, check out our guide to the best Lego deals.

Should you buy Lego Botanicals?

While tending to your botanical babies everyday is a hobby that plenty of folks enjoy, it's an obligation that can really overstay its welcome if you haven't been bitten with the plant parent bug. Lego Botanicals require love and care in their initial assembly but then – like a beautiful baby bird that has flown the nest – they leave you the hell alone.

There are a variety of flora-inspired Lego sets that span various different build complexities and can be suited to almost any home decor aesthetic. That way, you not only get to enjoy a fun little crafternoon (for the uninitiated, that's a crafting afternoon) of building Lego but you can also have your creation be a permanent addition to your interior design.

Whether you're treating yourself to them or buying them as a gift for a friend or family member, Lego Botanicals are well-worth a buy – especially when you can score a deal on them.

Looking for more of the bricks from Billund? Check out our list of the best Lego sets.

More specifically, you can grab the Lego Roses set for £39.99 at Amazon instead of the usual £54.99. That's a record low price and, crucially, the kit will turn up on Valentine's Day so long as you have Amazon Prime membership and you order before the cutoff around 11pm tonight.

Despite what some grumpy curmudgeons might say, I'd argue that this is the perfect Valentine's gift. Besides being something you can enjoy making together (building the best Lego sets is a cute date idea in itself), these will last whereas those overly-expensive, probably-not-worth-it real roses are going to die in about a week. So long as you can repurpose or buy a little vase for these Lego equivalents to go in, you're laughing.

These aren't the only Lego flowers on offer, though. Want to shake things up? Check out the full Lego Botanical Collection at Amazon. It's also worth noting that I've seen these Lego Roses for £37 at Asda... but they won't be ready for click and collect for up to three days, and they cost over £3 for delivery that might not even arrive in time. As such, I'd recommend sticking with Amazon.

So, should you actually buy the Lego Bouquet of Roses? Having seen these in person, I'd argue that they look fantastic. The plastic shells for petals and a moulded centre make them very convincing, and the addition of small, white-flowered sprigs breaks up what could otherwise be a fairly one-note design. The roses are in various states of unfurling too, with four in full bloom, four, blossoming, and four in bud.

The only downside is one shared by many other Lego flower sets - it doesn't include a vase or anything to put the kit in once it's finished. While this is easily fixable, it's a shame that this isn't a 'complete' set that can stand on its own.

Still, it can be mixed with other Lego flower arrangements or added to its own vase for relatively little. These flowers aren't going to die within a few days like the real deal would either - they, like your love, is (hopefully) eternal.

Want something slightly more left-field? Do what I did for Valentine's Day last year. My wife always wanted Lego flowers or plants, but adores Super Mario. The obvious solution? Grabbing the Lego Piranha Plant, which is currently £39.99 at John Lewis rather than £57.99.

Want more ideas? Don't miss these gifts for gamers. You can also find suitable presents in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch gifts.

So, when the Billund-based brick builders decided to update the latter in 2023, with the Lego X-Wing Starfighter (75355), I would have bet my last galactic credit the TIE Interceptor would’ve been next. And with 2024 marking Lego's 25th anniversary, it was the perfect time to revisit this classic UCS set.

The Lego UCS TIE Interceptor retails for $229.99/£199.99 and occupies the smaller UCS vehicle slot in Lego’s annual Star Wars release schedule. Past incarnations include the Lego Luke Skywalker's Landspeeder (75341). This is not to be confused with the larger UCS slot, which boasts some of the biggest and best Lego Star Wars sets ever made. The most recent additions are the Lego Jabba’s Sail Barge (75397) and the Lego UCS Venator (75367).

I spent hours in the early noughties pouring over my Lego catalogs, and the original UCS TIE Interceptor and X-Wing Fighter were near the top of my wishlist. So, I couldn't wait to start piecing this set together. But is it worthy of the Empire’s finest or a bucket of studs? Let’s find out…

Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor features

Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor Build

• 1,931 pieces
• Tricky triangular sticker placement
• Very few Technic pieces for a build of this size

The TIE Interceptor comprises 1,931 pieces – 22 less than the X-Wing Starfighter – and took me around five-and-a-half hours to build. I was thrown right into the deep end at the beginning of the build by immediately making a start on the cockpit interior. This ultimately houses all of the set's 15 stickers, and bar the circular targeting computer, they’re all triangular. This makes them not only difficult to apply but extra attention must be paid to ensure you apply each sticker the right way around.

The fact some of the triangular pieces attach via clips makes it very easy to misjudge which way up the piece will ultimately sit within the cockpit. I’d also recommend using a pair of tweezers when applying them as they're all reasonably small and fiddly.

It’s worth making sure that everything within the cockpit snaps together tightly because as you progress with the build, anything that falls off within the cockpit will be mighty difficult to clip back into place, as you can barely squeeze a finger or two into the cramped space.

With much of the cockpit interior completed, you move onto the internal structure of the wing attachments, which includes a few Technic pieces. There are fewer Technic pieces here than your average UCS build, which I like. You then move onto the exterior plating of the wing-attachment arms and cockpit, which includes plenty of slopes, producing a largely studless aesthetic.

Once the cockpit is finished, it's time to build the stand. This then allows you to mount the cockpit on the stand while you build the wings. The first stage in building the wings is constructing the two rectangular mid-sections. They are virtually identical, but some excellent greebling keeps them interesting. You then move onto the four irregular quadrilaterals, which make up the rest of the wings.

The wing sections are repetition-heavy, with each wing comprising three layers of plates and a cleverly implemented gray border. Repetition is part and parcel when it comes to UCS sets, but the size and number of wing sections make them take up half of the build. This is an 18+ set for good reason. And probably a set most builders will want to split over a few days to make its repetitive nature more enjoyable.

Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor: Design

• Beautiful spherical cockpit with detailed interior
• Not minifigure scale, but the cockpit accommodates the minifigure well
• Absolutely nails the TIE Interceptor aesthetic

As a child, I must have spent hours looking at the original UCS TIE Interceptor (7181) from the year 2000 alongside the UCS X-Wing (7191) in the Lego catalog. The X-Wing is the better of these two retro models. Even back then, the TIE Interceptor looked boxy and spindly in comparison. But now, I think the tables have turned. Having built both the new X-Wing and TIE Interceptor, I have to say, the TIE is the better model.

Both sets look exquisite when compared to the source material, but the X-Wing suffers from a structural flaw that causes some serious wing droopage. And it’s gotten worse over time. Suffice to say, “lock S-foils in attack position” is easier said than done, since the mechanism seems to have come loose or simply worn, despite the model only sitting on display. Plus, the weight of the model on the pair of 2x2 curved slopes that sit at the very top of the X-Wing’s stand ping off within moments of being reattached to the point that I now leave them off entirely.

Time will tell if the weight of this hulking TIE Interceptor will produce similar problems. But I could tell while I was building it that it’s a much more structurally sound model. Sure, it’s a much more stable and compact design compared to the X-Wing’s exceedingly long wings and nose, but the model is more stable where it counts. That said, pieces do fall off. Plenty of tiny details are attached to a single stud or clip and they’re prone to vacating their station when the model is moved. Probably the most frustrating culprit is that instantly recognizable windshield. I try to avoid resting my thumb on it when moving the model because it almost always falls off.

But, this is a UCS Lego set. It’s not built for practicality and it’s not built for play. So long as it’s stable enough to hold itself together while being displayed and not touched, I’m happy. The X-Wing fails in that regard, but as far as I can tell, the TIE Interceptor should succeed.

As is often the case with a good Lego set, pictures cannot do this thing justice. Stacking it up against prototype imagery reveals a strikingly good resemblance. The cockpit is slightly more bulbous than it should be and the attachments that sit between the cockpit and wing are slightly thicker, but making these thinner would have probably impacted the model’s stability. Overall, this is a very faithful recreation of the source material – it blows its 25-year-old sibling out of the sky with a pair of laser cannons.

The greebling throughout is very tastefully done. Look at the model from the front and you’ll notice two Lego shovels, in between each wing, used to replicate the ship’s targeting sensors. On either side of the cockpit are a pair of cleverly positioned gray Lego video game controllers. And the laser cannons on the tip of each wing are represented using gray Mini Space Guns and gray lightsaber hilts. All fantastic little details.

The inner wings are covered in anti studs (the uglier rear of Lego plates). But I really can’t see a way around this, without the tooling of many new pieces (which would be far too expensive) or by increasing the thickness of each wing, which wouldn’t look right. Ultimately, the inside of each wing is plain and streamlined, with minimal structural inclusions and even some clever greebling. It doesn’t really damage the overall aesthetic.

Arguably my favorite part of the ship is the rear, which is where the twin ion engine is located (TIE being an acronym). In fact, there’s so much greebling goodness, it’s almost a shame the designers opted for the – admittedly great-looking – printed hatch on the top of the cockpit, instead of depicting it with pieces. But this certainly comes down to a matter of taste and is in no way a negative.

Talk of printed bricks brings me onto the UCS series’ famous printed plaque. The X-Wing Fighter’s plaque has a matt finish and I much prefer it to the TIE Interceptor’s glossy variant. Fresh from the box, I could see little scratches on it and it’s a fingerprint magnet, too. And since these ships go together like Han and Leia, it’s a shame the plaques aren’t uniform. Still, it’s a world away from the days when you had to apply a huge sticker, which was a nerve-wracking experience indeed.

It’s a shame the interior of the TIE Interceptor’s cockpit is so hidden because it’s a thing of beauty. Lego keeps pushing the boundaries when it comes to interiors and this might be my favorite small-to-medium-sized UCS vehicle interior yet. And while this ship is not minifigure scale, the TIE Pilot slots into the cockpit beautifully.

The little pilot is as fine a minifigure as you’d expect, with a finely printed male head, helmet, arms, torso (front and back), hip and legs. This is the gold standard in TIE pilots. It’s similar to the female minifigure included in the TIE Fighter & X-Wing Mash-up (75393) and the minifigure included in the TIE Bomber (75347) sets, but with printed arms, which is a bonus.

Although not technically a minifigure, you also get a mouse droid. This is a lovely little mini-build and sits next to the pilot on the stand nicely.

Should you buy the Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor?

As Lego Star Wars celebrates its 25th anniversary, few models illustrate just how far the theme has come quite like the UCS TIE Interceptor (75382). It makes the Noughties original look like something from Atari’s 1983 Star Wars arcade game in comparison, and even by today’s lofty standards, the TIE Interceptor is a very good-looking UCS set indeed.

I knocked off half a star because bits are prone to falling off in transit and sometimes they’re not easy to reinstall, as well as the move to a glossy plaque, which simply doesn’t work as well as the matt variant (nor match its counterpart, the X-Wing Starfighter). Otherwise, this is a fantastic ode to how far Lego Star Wars has come in a quarter of a century. The cockpit interior is unmatched by any other starfighter set, the greebling is exquisite, and even the TIE Pilot is a perfect representation of a modern minifigure. I’m wondering how Lego could improve upon this set, should it get revisited for Lego Star Wars' 50th.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested the Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor

I built the Lego Star Wars TIE Interceptor (75382) over roughly five-and-a-half hours and in three sittings. It sat in my living room on display for a couple of weeks and I also tested its durability by moving it around, especially when photographing it. I’ve also built and reviewed the closely related Lego Star Wars X-Wing Starfighter (75355) and many other Lego Star Wars sets, too. I’ve been collecting Lego since the early 90s, making me extremely well-versed in the world’s favorite construction toy.

For more information on our procedure, take a look at how we test products.

For more brick-based goodness, don't miss our guides to the best Lego Super Mario sets. You can also get some money off with these Lego deals.

Features

• Biggest kit in the series yet
• Comes with K.K. minifigure
• The town hall building is iconic

While technically the centerpiece of the Lego Animal Crossing sets, there's an odd assortment of accessories in K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza. There's the town hall building and some minimal furniture for the inside like the ATM, a small, surprisingly complex cafe stall, a concert setup, the notice board, and K.K.'s traveling van. The set also comes with three minifigures, K.K., Isabelle, and Audie. It's not a bad amount of stuff by any means, but it's a somewhat odd combination.

Build

• Less than 3 hours to build
• Fairly straightforward though big in scale
• One or two complicated modules

The most complex bit in K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza might, at first blush, seem like the town hall building – and it does admittedly have a fair amount of LEGO bricks in it. But if you've built one building, especially from the Animal Crossing line, you've essentially built them all, and the town hall is no exception. In reality, the most captivating part of this set is actually K.K.'s travelling van.

Product shots of the van might be a bit deceptive as it's quite complex – more than I certainly expected. There are a lot of little parts that go into making the whole, and in a different universe I wouldn't have balked at seeing the van as its own, slightly cheaper set instead of part of the larger K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza one here. The back opens up to reveal little touches like a little spot for K.K. to leave a drink or the functional storage area on top, and generally there's actually an overall sense that it might have been even better if the van had been larger in the grand scheme of things.

Design

• Just as modular as the other Animal Crossing sets
• Clearly meant to be the centerpiece
• Not as complicated as it looks

Of all the Lego Animal Crossing sets that I've reviewed so far, K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza is the one that feels most like it is let down by design. It's by no means a bad set, but for being the biggest, most expensive set, it's actually somewhat minimalist. While it has 550 pieces in total, a huge number of those are part of the building or K.K.'s van.

Compared to, say, the Lego Nook's Cranny & Rosie's House set, there is a surprising lack of details. All the buildings in the aforementioned set have involved insides and complex roofs, and both are shockingly simplistic in K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza. The little cafe modular piece with its tiny pastries and tea and stall is quite charming, but it is hard to beat the feeling of having K.K. at all looms large over the rest of the set and is meant to be a significant amount of its value.

Should you buy Lego K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza?

At this point, if you're building more than one set from the Lego Animal Crossing line, you're going to want to have this one despite my caveats. The whole line is designed with the idea of customizing a series of modular builds to build the "island" that you want to have, and what's an Animal Crossing island without the town hall and plaza?

Ratings

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza

This set was built over the course of a single, 2.5-hour session. We made it a priority to directly compare it to other builds from the same line as we went and explicitly combine with other sets to see how it meshed.

For more on our process, see our 'how we test' guide.

Provided the project reaches its goal of 10,000 backers by March 24, you’ll be able to get your hands on six 5.5-inch figures (Leozak, Gaihawk, Ellbat, Jaruga, Killbison, and Drillhorn) for $299.99. These can be joined together to form the complete Liokaiser Combiner, a combo figure that stands 12 inches tall. Each of these Death Zone dwellers has a bipedal bot form, a combat vehicle form, and an animal weapon that emerges from their breastplate. Ah, of course, that’s why they’re called Breastforce. Get your mind out of the gutter, pal.

Interestingly, the Haslab listing seems to very deliberately refer to the Decepticon combat team by the far less giggle-inducing name, Chest-force. This is fair enough, given their source material originally aired in Japanese, leaving some room for varied translation. For example, they’re also occasionally referred to as the Destrons. But for obvious reasons, a name as iconic as Breastforce will always be close to fans’ hearts.

Alongside the primary backing goal of the Liokaiser Combiner, Haslab presents three stretch goals according to fan demand. Provided a 13,000 backer goal is met, the Liokaiser Combiner will also ship with Deathcobra: a bot who would have been a part of the Liokaiser if he wasn’t merced by Ellbat. At 16,000 backers, buyers will get an Electromagnetic Nunchaku to make their bots look even cooler. Meanwhile 18,000 backers will see display bases included as well. Sure, that last one isn’t as glamorous but in order to properly display your Breastforce, you’ll need a little extra support.

If you prefer your blasters a little more life-sized, you'll want to see our list of the best Nerf guns.

The film itself may not be the most popular, but there's no denying how iconic this moment was. That makes it perfect for a brick-based adaptation, and Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron does the team-up justice. Besides recreating a shot I doubted would be possible in Lego form near-flawlessly, it's crammed with clever solutions to make the scene work.

Yes, there are bigger and more impressive Marvel kits. But for my money, this will be one of the best Lego sets for the majority of fans.

Features

• Full OG team lineup
• Lots of interactivity with blasters and breakable terrain
• Is built for display or play

As the name would suggest, this kit brings together the team's original MCU lineup to recreate Age of Ultron's opening battle. You know the one – that fight where they assault one of Hydra's last remaining bases in snowy Sokovia.

Practically speaking, that means you're getting mini figures for Captain America (on his WWII motorbike), Black Widow, Hawkeye, Thor, Hulk, and Iron Man. A jeep for them to dramatically leap out of is featured here too, as are defences for the icy forest. This includes a bunker for Hulk to smash, complete with a swivelling turret. Three Hydra soldiers are included too, all with mini blasters that actually fire studs.

Build

• Takes an hour or two
• Posing the minifigs is so satisfying
• Fiddly to (Avengers) assemble 'hovering' pieces

While there were some hiccups, I really enjoyed building Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron. For starters, it's a surprisingly varied process. Although you'd assume it'd get monotonous with its many snowy plates and gunmetal gray siege defences, the designers have wisely broken it all down into chunks that don't see you repeating yourself very often.

Secondly, putting the minifigs into their mid-air poses after finishing a few pages is the sort of reward that makes me feel like a kid again, playing with his action figures. Don't get me wrong, these can be a pain to install and are fiddly in places (much like the jeep's roll-cage, which I can see being hard for young children to construct). But there's something satisfying about clicking the characters into such an energetic action scene.

I didn't appreciate the instructions as much, though. Lego frequently flip-flops between outlining the necessary pieces on-page or not highlighting what you're adding at all, and this The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron is in the latter camp. I wouldn't say it's hard to muddle your way through, but it's frustrating that fans have to play spot the difference when building this set.

Design

• A very dynamic scene with lots going on
• Characters are at their most iconic
• Interactive elements add kinectic energy kids will love

You can't go far wrong when the OG Avengers are teaming up in a boxset (something that doesn't happen too often, sadly). Add some dynamic poses and a striking background for Lego brick perfection.

No, really. I've got almost nothing to complain about with the finished article. Actually, I'd go so far as to say it's the best Marvel kit for most people. Avengers Tower and the Daily Bugle may be more visually impressive, yes, but The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron does a lot with very little. There's no wasted space here; it crams the franchise's most beloved characters and one of their most memorable moments into just over 600 pieces.

It manages to nail the look of frigid Sokovia with minimal parts, too. Despite being little more than a handful of white plates and snowy trees at base, the addition of the bunker, guard tower, and concrete defences immediately bring Age of Ultron's opening to mind. These were among the centerpieces for that battle, so even though they're not full-size here, their inclusion makes the setting instantly recognizable.

Speaking of centerpieces, it's fun to see Lego getting creative with a tricky task like this. Having the heroes assume those iconic but gravity-defying moves without cluttering things up is a tall order, and I think the team pulled it off. Translucent stands were a given, of course, but I appreciate how they're often hidden behind other elements or disappear into the background entirely because there's so much else to take in.

Not that you have to sit and stare at this thing. It's perfectly good as a diorama to stick on your shelf (that's certainly what I've done), but it's very interactive and makes an excellent playset for younger children as well. Whether it's Hulk knocking the bunker off its perch by jumping onto the seesaw in front of it or Hydra agents shooting at the superheroes with their fireable blasters, kids will have a blast here.

Should you buy Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron?

Whether you're a grown-up Marvel fan seeking a display piece or a kid wanting a cool toy of Earth's Mightiest Heroes, Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron will tick that box. It's a dynamic diorama that's neither too big nor too expensive, while also being interactive enough to provide ample entertainment for younger fans.

It's true that bigger kits such as the Sanctum Sanctorum are more eye-catching. However, the value, price point, and broad appeal of this set make it a great option for most people.

Ratings

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron

This build took between 1 to 2 hours across a couple of days, and I made it during the work day as a brain break from writing. While constructing it, I took plenty of notes about high points or drawbacks as I encountered them. I also took into account other Marvel sets and how this one compares to them.

For more, don't miss our guide to how we test Lego or the broader GamesRadar+ reviews policy.

Want something a little more cosmic? Check out the best Lego Star Wars sets. As for boosting your collection for less, be sure to visit our page of Lego deals.

Febrovery is a time-honored tradition for sci-fi Lego builders that started sometime in 2011 with a builder called Crimso Giger's Lego Classic Space Rovers group.

Even now, in 2025, builders are coming together to design rovers over February that might wander the surface of alien planets to harvest purple Lego crystals and the like. The designs range from lifelike – mimicking that of real-world NASA rovers – to fantastical. This year, there's plenty of stiff competition across the Adult Fan of Lego (AFOL) community.

While there's no prize for the best Febrovery design, it's a great way for builders to show off what they can do and get to know each other's building styles. It comes in alongside something called Fantasty February, and the ValentinesHabitats25 contest, both of which are being held in February, so it seems there are loads of other fan-hosted Lego events going on this month.

As for Febrovery, here's a taster of the kind of awesome work you can expect to see over the coming month.

BT1-BLAKTRAK1 by Outerspacelegobuilds

This beastly design "Started with the idea of a similar mechanism like the spy trak 1", an official Lego set released back in 1989. It even comes with a "Jail pod connection", in case the rover's pilot runs into any trouble on their spacewalk.

A lil drone dude by Rhinoswagobius

Just a little guy. This one is an adorable drone that can also rotate its propellers to double as wheels for travel via both land and air. Something that would be super handy on a space mission, I imagine.

BIB Land Ferry by Koosya The Cat

This one comes alongside a whole heap of lore around how the BIB Ferry can "Move forwards and backwards with same efficiency, but usually it cruises with main proximity sensor and headlamps forward." It also goes over how the machines tend to "Operate on distances from 50 up to 1000 kilometers - although a 20-hour trip inside it would be very unpleasant."

A Febrovery photo series by Ids de Jong

This prolific Lego builder has been dramatising their work on the Febrovery event as they post their entries, which you can follow along with on their Flickr account. They appear to be searching for space wolves on their little journey across the galaxy, so tune in there to find out if they'll end up coming face to face with the beasts.

Febrovery is a fascinating look into a very eccentric and dedicated mashup of the Sci-Fi and AFOL fandoms, and it warms my heart to see people having so much fun with it. This really is the epitome of what I love about Lego.

If you want to get involved, there's a whole section of the Lego Space Discord dedicated to Febrovery, so don't be shy. Go show off your wheeled machinations there.

For more recommendations, why not check out the best Lego Star Wars sets, or some of the new Lego sets around.

Should you buy Lego Wicked?

If you've had Popular stuck in your head for the past few months, you're probably already half on board here. Sure, you're certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to Wicked goodies (don't get me started on that color-changing Mac and Cheese) but with Lego, you're not only getting something to signal just how hard you cried in theatre during Defying Gravity – you're also getting a fun, creative activity.

With the 558-piece Elphaba & Glinda Figures set, you're probably looking at around an hour and a half of build time (roughly 1.5 playthroughs of the Wicked Soundtrack). Meanwhile, the 945-piece Welcome to Emerald City would probably take you through watching the entire movie. Take that as my suggestion as to what to do when it hits streaming.

Both Lego and Wicked have a great deal of cross-generational appeal and both of the Lego Wicked sets that are on sale at the moment are suitable for ages 9/10+. So they're perfect for picking up for yourself or the tween/teen in your life who's already stocked up on pretty much every other green and pink merch collab they can get their hands on.

Looking for more goodies to signal your fan status? Our list of gifts for gamers has you covered.

Frankly, I'm here for it. I'll argue that this Lord of the Rings kit is one of the best Lego sets ever made (if not the best), so being able to get it for £65 less than normal is cause enough for me to light the beacons and call for aid from my beleaguered bank account. More specifically, Lego Rivendell has fallen to £363.99 at Amazon instead of £429.99.

I appreciate that this is still a lot of money, even on a kit as precious as this. But it's literally never been cheaper anywhere else, and I don't see if falling much further. I've been covering Lego and discounts on the bricks from Billund for over five years now, and premium sets like this only get a steeper price cut once in a blue moon.

Should you buy Lego Rivendell?

I understand that this is a lot of money, and it gives me palpitations whenever I see it. But as I said in my full Lego Rivendell review, I honestly think it's worth the price of entry.

For starters, it's crammed with hidden features and Easter eggs that are a delight to discover (and re-find when you inevitably forget about them). It's also downright beautiful, and does one of the trilogy's prettiest locations justice. Oh, and getting the full Fellowship with an entourage of free peoples to give them council? Marvellous.

Naturally, it looks stunning too. This is big and intricate enough to steal the limelight in any space, so expect it to be a reliable conversation starter.

The flip-side is that it requires a lot of real-estate. This is a space-hungry set that dominates a room, so it won't work for those who are struggling to display things as it is.

It also takes a long time to build. Unsurprisingly for a model this enormous, it'll take many, many evenings of hard graft to finish.

I'd say the effort is worthwhile, though. There are enough secrets sprinkled throughout the build to keep things light, and there's a thrill to seeing such a complex beast come together.

Want to save as much as possible? Don't miss theseLego deals. As for present ideas, why not check out these gifts for gamers?

Chief amongst these romantic offerings is the Lego Bouquet of Roses kit, which has tumbled to its lowest ever price. You can currently pick it up for $47.99 at Amazon instead of $59.99, and price-matching software confirms that it's never been cheaper. (UK readers can find it for £39.99 at Amazon rather than the usual £54.99.) Similarly, the rather lovely Orchid set is just five cents away from a record low - it's $39.99 at Amazon rather than $49.99. Considering how highly sought-after the Lego flowers range is, I'm surprised they've been reduced this close to Valentine's Day.

There are plenty of other reductions, and I've listed these below, but you can skip to the chase by visiting Amazon's Lego Botanical Collection page.

I know it's not as exciting as some of the best Lego sets like Mighty Bowser or the Millennium Falcon. But this kit is actually very fetching in person, with and those molded rose petals avoid what could have been a jumble of unsightly studs and arcs.

Yes, it's a little annoying that this doesn't come with a Lego vase or something to put it in. But at least it can be mixed with other flower sets for a rather lovely arrangement, or plonked into a vase of your choosing. It'll last one hell of a lot longer than real roses, too.

Not feeling this? Well, you could always do what I did last year and get your significant other the ultimate Lego flower set - the Piranha Plant from Super Mario.

Want more present ideas? Don't miss these gifts for gamers.

You can currently save up to 25% on the new-and-improved Nerf blasters, which takes them from "oh, cool" to impulse-worthy territory. As an example, the enormous Infinite (which will intimidate most foes in backyard battles due to its 40-dart battle belt) has dropped to $29.88 at Amazon instead of $39.99. Similarly, the long-range Pinpoint - which is probably my favorite of the bunch - has been slashed to $14.99 at Amazon. It's usually $19.99.

While a couple of other N-Series blasters have been reduced as well (you can see the full range at Amazon here), none are as eye-catching as these bargains.

Should you buy Nerf N-Series?

Although I was taken aback by Hasbro completely tearing up their lineup for an entirely new range, I remained somewhat sceptical about how much the N-Series would actually change things.

As it happens, they change things a lot. I've tested my fair share of Nerf toys, and after going hands-on I'd say the N-Series are the best Nerf guns by a long way. Besides being incredibly satisfying to use (I especially enjoyed the bolt action on the Nerf N-Series Pinpoint) and more powerful overall, the brand-new darts are show-stealers. These fly further and are much, much more accurate than their predecessors. Because older Nerf blasters weren't exactly known for their accuracy, that's a big deal.

The downside? These darts aren't compatible with any other blasters, nor can you use old darts (like the Elite range) with N-Series toys. That's because the N-Series ammo is larger and differently-shaped.

Still, it's worth noting that this seems to be Hasbro's main Nerf range going forward - it appears as if everything that came before is being phased out, with the exception of the Gelfire and Pro Stryfe toys. That means you'll be set for the future with these N-Series offers.

Want some easy presents? Don't miss these gifts for gamers. As for more toys, be sure to check out the best Lego sets.

Coming in at 49,500 yen (around £260 or $320) these plushies stand over five foot tall, though sadly they can't stand on their own. Whether they'll end up in our best Nintendo Switch gift guide, I'm not sure, but I'm at least glad they don't stand up. If they did, I guarantee my housemates would leave them lurking around corners for me to come face-to-face with after a late night and I'd most certainly die from the shock.

Having been on the internet for... a while, I'm sure the rest of the Pokemon fandom will find some eccentric if a little disturbing uses for a life-sized Gardevoir plushie. As long as it doesn't somehow sneak onto my Tumblr feed, this is fine (she says as fire blazes in the background).

Of course, these arent the first life-sized Pokemon plushies we've seen. Lucario, Larvesta, Lucario, Arcanine and Spheal have all made it into the ranks of the life-size Pokemon army.

There was even some drama around the Altaria life-size Pokemon that had fans panicking after finally receiving their Altaria due to its ridiculous size. Fans apparently hadn't properly considered the sheer scale before purchasing, only to discover later that its breadth would take up the best part of a King sized bed.

Thankfully Gardevoir will only take up a human sized slot in your bed, or sit nicely in the corner surrounded by the rest of whatever mountain of plushies you've accumulated over the years.

For more recommendations, why not check out the best Pokemon games or perhaps grab a Yamper Plushie from Build-A-Bear if that's your bag.

Because these two new kits are based on the upcoming adaptation rather than the video game itself, Lego Minecraft movie minifig designs have been updated to match – and that's resulted in a very weird-looking zombie. Or more specifically, a baby zombie. It's unsettling, and I can't put my finger on why.

I think my problem stems from the fact that every other minfig inspired by those film versions looks close to their standard Minecraft counterparts, to the point that they're mostly interchangeable. But this little terror? He's like a high-def Skeletor or a decomposing Squidward, so it's giving me the heebie-jeebies.

I should point out that we haven't seen the movie's take on a baby zombie yet, so this could be a 1:1 translation. It's also been done to the toy-maker's usual high standard, as is the norm for the best Lego sets these days. But even so, this mini horror gets a 'nope' from me. Still, at least he rides into battle on a giant chicken. So there's that.

Here's everything you need to know about the sets below, or, if you're pushed for time, you can find them on the Lego Minecraft store page.

Woodland Mansion Fighting Ring

This kit gets you one half of the cast alongside a handful of baddies - there's Jack Black's Steve, Garrett, Henry, a chicken jockey, the baby zombie, and a great hog. Aside from those creatures to beat up with an assortment of weapons, this kit also includes a "functional fighting ring" that comes with score-keepers and a mansion facade that packs both a removable chest and weapons rack.

Personally, I'm a big fan of those cute little potion vials.

This isn't up for pre-order yet, but when it is, you'll be able to find it directly from Lego here.

The Ghast Balloon Village Attack

This pack seems to recreate a scene from the movie's recent trailer, where pig-men attack a village from balloons. The other half of the cast is featured here, which means you're getting Natalie and Dawn to go with another Steve, a villager minifig, a pair of piglins, a ghast balloon, a baby chicken, and imposing iron golem.

Because this is based on the film's village, it includes a handful of facades for stalls and shops as well - including the chicken roasting store that dumps lava over unsuspecting cluckers.

This kit can't be pre-ordered yet, but when it is, you'll be able to find it direct from the Lego store.

Thinking these might be good gifts for gamers? Us too. You can find other presents via our guide to the best Nintendo Switch gifts.

Currently unavailable to pick up from workshops in the UK or US, this Yamper bundle is a Build-a-Bear online exclusive that not only makes 5 different adorable sounds but also comes as a bundle with a little bandana! All this for $65 on the Build-a-Bear store.

For those in the UK, you can grab the little electric pupper for just £56.50 on the Build-a-Bear online store.

Should you buy the Build-a-Bear Yamper plushie?

Reasons to buy the Yamper plushie include:

• Would be good on walks
• Loves scritches
• Has a sticky-out tongue
• Comes with small cape and bandana
• Goes bork bork
• Does a big protecc

On a more serious note, although this isn't technically a deal, with no money saved, it does net you a plushie bundle available only online. Anyone heading to the Build-a-Bear store won't be able to get Yamper's little bandanna and cape, so that's certainly something to think about.

For more discounts, be sure to check out the best Nintendo Switch gifts, or of course our updated gifts for gamers guide?

Aside from the "multiple new Lego sets" we've been told to expect –which are to be "inspired by some of the most iconic scenes straight out of the East Blue" – there's also hints that something else might be in the works. I'm betting that, other than some stalwart contenders for the best Lego sets, there could be a Lego One Piece movie coming over the horizon. Though, maybe I'm just reading into it too much.

Consumer Products VP at Netflix, Josh Simon, says the collaboration will "build out the treasured manga’s adventures in iconic Lego form for the first time ever". Not the biggest hint but it's vague enough to interpret as a potential movie.

The thing that really got me wondering whether the designs really stop at new Lego sets was when Lena Dixen, Senior VP for Core Businesses at the Lego Group, hinted at "all the grand adventures [they] will begin to unveil soon." Sure, this could just be marketing speak, but a girl can dream.

Even more of a teaser, the press release ends with an interesting little tidbit. It says the Lego One Piece collection reveal will include "products and experiences, bound to make waves in the coming months".

Come on, they can't just be talking about stacking bricks together, can they? I'm betting there's a One Piece Lego movie in the making and I am definitely here for it. For updates, you can keep an eye on the new One Piece section on the Lego website.

For more recommendations, why not check out some other exciting new Lego sets or some Lego deals if you're in the market for something cheap and cheerful.

Written by Rebecca Yarros and narrated by Rebecca Soler, Onyx Storm: Empyrean is currently free with an initial Audible trial, or just $0.99 with three months of Audible. That's more than 90% off. If you already have an Audible subscription, you're still able to get the unabridged audiobook for just $36.74, over the proposed retail price of $41.99.

For dragon lovers in the UK, you can nab the audiobook free with an Audible trial, or 99p with a three month subscription. If you already have Audible you're looking at £27.12, instead of the expected £30.99.

This is a limited time offer on a very sought after series, so we don't expect it to last long.

Should you buy Onyx Storm: Empyrean, Book 3?

I have it on good authority that this book is not just porn, but dragon themed fantasy porn that "everyone between the ages of 27 and 35 are obsessed with".

It's been called "Hunger Games meets Fifty Shades" and if that's not enough to interest you, the book itself heralds itself as a "nonstop-thrilling adventure fantasy set in the brutal and competitive world of a military college for dragon riders". Its raunchy, gore-infused, and serving some serious Game of Thrones energy.

As the third book, the narrative is really heating up, too. As the description notes, "The battle has truly begun, and with enemies closing in from outside their walls." Sounds like it won't be a gentle dragon ride this time around.

If dragons are your thing, why not check out the best D&D books, or drop by our gifts for gamers guide?

Seriously, why did no one tell me mini Lego skylines were a thing? In fact, don't get me any of the best Lego sets for my birthday, I'm pivoting to something called MOCs. Admittedly this is an acronym I've just discovered, but it's one that's used all the time in the Lego community. MOC just stands for 'My Own Creation', and is used to refer to a fan-made design that's either made from spare bricks, or reassembled – AKA. 'rebricked' (so many new words today) – from official Lego sets.

Now that's outta' the way, this morning has been an itty-bit of a journey for me. From spotting the fascinatingly intricate work of Lego builder Roanoke Handybuck on Brothers Brick, to a realization that hit like the pain of stepping on several Legos at once. I now realize I'd been wasting my life playing the buggy-yet-charming Cities: Skylines 2 video game when I could have been joining in with Lego builders world-round to make my very own Lego skylines instead.

Not only did I find a veritable cornucopia of these MOCs on Rebrickable, including a host of micro Skylines mimicking cities all over the globe, there are also fantasy cities and regions wrought from Plate and Bar and Stud. Everything from Super Mario Brother's, to Jurrassic Park, to the Futurama skyline. There's even one for each of the Lord of the Rings and Star Wars movies.

As prolific nano-builder denjohan notes in the description of their nano version of the Venice Skyline, "The small scale makes details rather hard to achieve". Yet somehow they managed to fit a recognisable rendition of the Floating City onto a 2x12 Lego plate. That's some talent.

For a small price, and sometimes for free, you can get hold of the fan-made instructions to build these little skylines yourself. There's even a section under each design to help you source the exact selection of bricks necessary to make them, if you don't have them lying around already.

I believe you've just witnessed my rebirth into the Lego fandom, so I thank you for sitting in to welcome me. Be right back while I build a shelf to house a neverending nano Lego skyline around my entire bedroom.

For more recommendations, why not check out the best Lego gifts, or pop over and see what discounts you can pick up on Lego deals.

You can currently pick the Lego Piranha Plant kit up for $47.95 at Amazon instead of $59.99, and it's literally never been cheaper than that. Indeed, I've not been able to find the set for less across the entirety of last year... even during sales like Black Friday.

Basically, all this is to say that now's your best chance to dive in if you've had your eye on the set, or wanted a good gift for the Nintendo fan in your life. It's certainly one of the best Lego deals I've seen this week, and is one hell of a lot less than the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is sure to be.

Should you buy the Lego Piranha Plant?

Look, I get it. Lego is expensive, particularly when we delve into the for-adults collector pieces. But this one? It's surprisingly reasonable so far as costs go, and it doesn't feel as if you're missing out. While it's not hugely complex, it manages convey a lot of personality thanks to its posable head and leaves. It's also a dead ringer for the in-game baddie so should delight fans of Mario - it doesn't feel like a half-baked effort.

Besides being very characterful, it won't take over a space either like The Mighty Bowser (an equally cool but much bigger kit) would. This is the perfect size to sit on a shelf or desk and serve as a conversation starter, but isn't going to make you feel like you've set up a shrine to a video game villain at home.

Is this likely to go down in price again at some point? I imagine so, especially as the year wears on. But that's not a guarantee, and it'd be impossible to predict when that'll happen, which means you're pretty safe to grab the kit now without getting hit with buyer's remorse.

This is arguably one of the most tempting gifts for gamers, but you shouldn't miss these Nintendo Switch gifts either.

Due to arrive in early February, Lego Twilight 'The Cullen House' recreates the vampire family's home in rainy Washington state. It's populated by seven minifigures (headlined by Edward and Bella, naturally) alongside a sizeable werewolf model – letting you add fuel to the old 'Team Edward or Team Jacob' fire.

Oh, and one more thing: Little Lego Edward does have sparkly skin. Actually, the press release describes it as a "dazzling sparkle effect." Nosferatu? Nah, it's all about the glitter vampires today.

I've broken down the details of Lego Twilight below, but the headline is you're able to pre-order it from the Lego store right now. You can then add it to your collection of the best Lego sets when it releases this February 4.

Lego Ideas Twilight The Cullen House

Comprising more than 2,000 pieces and carrying a 'for adults' label, this Lego Twilight kit is designed first and foremost as a display set to go in pride of place on fans' shelves (it's certainly big enough). Although it's a shame that we don't get the entire Cullen clan, there are certainly enough minifigs to fill any Vampiric void you might feel in your heart. Edward, his 'parents' Carlisle and Esme, and 'sister' Rosalie represent the vampire fam here. They're joined by Bella, her dad Charlie, and werewolf hunk Jacob Black in both his long-haired human form and with a monster makeover. You also get Bella's truck, presumably so you can recreate the "whoops, Bella also got squashed into spaghetti" scene.

The house itself is as upmarket chic as the movie set (it's all classy glass frontages), but it still manages to sneak some Easter eggs in there like stored baseball bats for the Cullen's thunderstorm baseball games. Then there's my favorite feature of the entire set – the ability to have Bella climb onto Edward's back like Yoda and 'climb' a tree. When combined with Edward's sparkly skin, I'd say Lego has nailed the assignment here.

As an 'Ideas' kit, this project was designed by a member of the community (California-based Nick Micheels, in this instance) and then voted into existence by fans. To be precise, Ideas projects need 10,000 votes to be considered by Lego… and this one surpassed that in less than 48 hours. Apparently, Lego Twilight is "one of the fastest" 10K submissions to date.

"The amazing submissions on the Lego Ideas site that demonstrated how dynamic the Lego system is inspired me to submit my own idea," Micheels noted. "I decided to create a Twilight build because I’m a massive fan of the saga, and imagining a Lego interpretation of the films made me so happy!"

Want to save on new kits? Check out the best Lego deals. You can also dive into a galaxy far, far away with the best Lego Star Wars sets.

Fans seem to have their eye on Naked Snake Funko Pop, though, which is understandable considering how it's already sold out at Amazon. Thankfully it's still available for $11.99 at Entertainment Earth. How else am I going to remake that moving final scene if these things are selling like hot cakes?

As for The Boss, Funko says that "this skilled soldier is sure to prove herself an invaluable asset to your POP! Games lineup," and right now you can pre-order them for $11.99 on Entertainment Earth.

Should you buy The Boss/Naked snake Funko Pop?

You don't need me to convince you that these little Funkos are worth adding to your ever-growing collection. The Funko fairy on your shoulder already did that.

These Funko Pops are set to drop in March 2025, so you'll have a little while to wait before you get your hands on The Boss. But considering how quickly the Snake Vinyl pre-orders disappeared on Amazon, now might be a good time to jump in.

For more discounts, be sure to check out the latest the best board games for January 2025. As for last-minute present ideas, why not drop by our gifts for gamers guide?

Revealed via a surprise teaser trailer on the Lego and Nintendo social channels, this kit looks as if it'll recreate the original 1989 handheld in all its retro glory. The Lego Game Boy will arrive in October 2025.

We don't have a good look at the set itself yet (just abstract footage of those iconic purple face buttons and the cross-shaped d-pad in Lego form), but teases like this tend to be followed by a full reveal shortly afterward. That's certainly been the case with some of the best Lego sets over the past few years.

Even though we don't know exactly how big the Lego Game Boy will be, or what it comes with, we can give it a good guess. Judging by those Lego studs on the d-pad, it'll weigh in at slightly under full size. The d-pad is three studs across, for example, and that's under an inch in length on other kits. This is a very similar approach to the previous NES set (sorry in advance to anyone hoping it'll be 1:1, like the proposed Lego PS2).

Will this kit come with anything? Almost certainly - based on past recreations, including the Lego Atari 2600, at least one or two game cartridges will come along for the ride. I wouldn't be surprised if iconic entries like Link's Awakening were present and correct, particularly with the recent Deku Tree set.

Either way, I'll keep a close eye on this; you'll be the first to know as soon as we get details.

Want to save on kits? Check out these Lego deals. As for actual consoles, don't miss the best gaming handhelds.

Of the many entries, 54 submissions have now hit the 10,000 supporter milestone, and will be joining what's called the 10K Club as they await announcement of the winning designs. While you wait, why not check out some of the best Lego sets to get an idea of the standard these contestants have to live up to when creating their Ideas entries?

Once the second round of Lego Ideas 2024 review results have been announced, Lego will also be launching a 10K Club Interview series speaking to contestants and celebrating their achievements. In the meantime, here are some Lego Ideas entries that have us super excited.

Sony PlayStation 2 by RippleDrive

RippelDrive has hit us with this fantastic Lego rendition of the well-loved original PlayStation 2. Made of 2,111 pieces, it's meant to be darn close to 1:1 scale. Impressive, especially as this kind of accuracy is rare when making things from pre-fabricated pieces such as Lego blocks.

Not only is it almost to scale, the design also features a moving disc tray and even disc reading lens, and the Memory Card covers come off so you can plug in the Memory Cards. The controller is also able to plug in, inside of which RippleDrive left an easter egg: the 7 orbs from the PS2 Menu tucked neatly in there. We're talking components, too, not just the outer shell of the PS2.

"I have a lot of fond memories playing the PS2 as a kid and as an adult," the designer notes. "This is my favorite video game console of all time."

Springfield Elementary School Simpsons by Airbricks95

Airbricks95 has designed a fantastic scene of Springfield Elementary, that features Bart making moves on his skateboard and Lisa playing her iconic saxophone. It even includes Homer's pink 1973 Plymouth Valiant parked outside the school, one can assume, as he tries haplessly to wrangle his kids after school. While munching on a juicy doughnut of course.

Turn the school around, and the interior becomes accessible. Inside there's a science lab, a hallway complete with vending machines, and a music room for Lisa to practice in. Of course, there's also somewhere for Bart to write lines on the board in detention.

Jumanji Board Game by Bricktacular Builds2

Designer Bricktacular Builds2 is a massive fan of Jumanji. "I've watched it too many times to count", they say. "I know so many others who feel the same way about this Classic. It’s one I enjoyed as a child and it still brings out my imagination to this day!"

Opening up, the Lego Jumanji set reveals the board complete with pieces and dice that make it look incredibly true to the design in the original movie. The center space even opens for a very ragged-looking Robin Williams figurine to escape from.

Lego Godzilla by MattE720

Based on his portrayals from the more recent movies, such as "Godzilla: King of the Monsters", and "Godzilla vs. Kong", MattE720 designed this regal kaiju to reflect its true majesty. Having had an increased interest in the monster over the past few years, MattE720 says

"I would want nothing more than to see people have their own buildable Godzilla on hand to play and display with." A noble goal, and one that makes clear the designers passion for not only Godzilla, but the fandom surrounding this King of monsters.

For more recommendations, why not check out some new Lego sets, or if you're looking for a present, try the best Lego gifts.

Jabba's floating pleasure palace was seen during Return of the Jedi as the stage for Luke's dramatic rescue of Princess Leia and Han Solo. While we've seen the barge in Lego form before, that was over a decade ago and the older sets were much smaller. This time around we've got a full-fledged Ultimate Collector Series (UCS) model. With nearly 4,000 pieces and 11 minifigures, you're getting a lot of plastic in the box — and I'd hope so, given the cost!

In Return of the Jedi, Jabba says "There will be no bargain, young Jedi." At the time we thought he was talking to Luke, but now we know what he really meant because the Lego Jabba's Sail Barge costs a whopping $499.99 / £429.99. That puts it into the same price range as some of the best Lego sets out there, like Lego Rivendell and Lego Gringotts Bank.

Does it justify the high bounty, or should it be thrown into the Sarlacc pit? There's only one way to find out.

Features

• Collector's display item
• Built-in display stand and plaque
• Drop-down sides with detailed interior
• Loads of minifigures

The latest addition to the Ultimate Collector Series, Jabba's Sail Barge is a hefty model. It's comprised of 3,942 pieces, measures 31 inches (77cm) long, and comes packed with playful details. The sides of the barge are on hinges, for example, allowing you to open the whole thing up and see the fully decked-out interior. You could almost be fooled into thinking this is a playset aimed at kids, but it's too bulky and fragile for kids to play with, so these features are just for big kids.

You get a literal barge's worth of minifigures with this set, though it has to be said that some of them sit on the "oh wow, it's Glup Shitto" end of the spectrum. To many collectors that's a bonus though, as some of these characters have never been released as minifigs before — namely Vizam and Wooof — while fan-favorite space DJ Max Rebo only had a single release in the past. The star of the show is the Jabba minifigure, of course, and the term "minifigure" is barely accurate because he's an absolute unit.

The larger controversy with the minifigures is not who is here, but rather who isn't; Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Lando Calrissian, and Boba Fett are all missing in action. Well, that's not entirely true… we know where they are, they're in the Desert Skiff & Sarlacc Pit set that's sold separately for $79.99 / £69.99.

Build

• Interior is a joy to build
• Exterior sections fly together surprisingly quickly
• Mechanisms for folding sections are simple and robust

Before we begin, it's worth noting that as one of Lego's newer sets, almost all of the individual bags are now recyclable paper instead of plastic. Even though there are a few random plastic bags in here still, it's a great change to see.

Jabba's Sail Barge took me about eight hours to assemble over four evenings, but you could absolutely crank this out in a day or two, provided you have fingers and thumbs of steel. The build starts with the lower support structure of the barge, creating the frame before filling it out with the panels that will become the bottom floor of the interior. There's nothing particularly challenging here as the set is primarily made from standard Lego, with only a few sections employing Technic pieces.

As with most big Lego Star Wars sets, the minifigures are spread throughout the entire build to give you a little dopamine boost every now and then. There are also a few stickers to apply, but it's only one small sheet for the whole build, so I won't complain too much.

Once the floor was laid out, I moved on to constructing the interior of Jabba's floating fortress. There is an adorable little kitchen in there, along with the cockpit, a jail cell, an armory, and, of course, Jabba's… throne room, I guess. I'm not sure what we call it; the place where Leia chokes him out. All of these rooms were a joy to assemble, each a mini-diorama in its own right. I especially love the reclining chairs in the cockpit – it's nice to see SecretLab alive and well in a galaxy far, far away.

From there I moved on to the exterior panels, which I was dreading if I'm honest — it looked like a sea of near-identical brown panels, but, in the end, I enjoyed it. There is enough variation between the panels to keep your brain engaged, and the folding mechanisms were super-satisfying to fit together. The whole thing flew together and before I knew it, it was on to the top deck.

If you do get bored of the tsunami of brown Lego pieces, this final section is a nice reprieve as it's mostly gray and uses a bunch of unique pieces to mix things up. The top deck is a split-level, so you'll build two separate sections and slot them in individually — since they're only held in place by a few interlocking pieces, they're easy to remove again if you want to see the interior better.

With that, all that remains is to assemble twin masts and slot the fabric sails into place. These feel super premium and, more importantly, look way better than hard plastic sails would have.

Design

• When panels are shut, it's a bit monotonous
• Interior adds some much-needed visual interest
• Feels like a blend between collector kits and playsets

Much like Jabba himself, the completed Sail Barge is a big boy. This impressive size has allowed the designers to pack a lot more detail into the ship, inside and out. The outer hull panels are lined with intricate patterns that highlight the ramshackle nature of the Hutt Clan's vehicles.

However, there's no getting away from the fact that with the side panels up, Jabba's Sail Barge is a massive hunk of brown plastic. It's a fantastic replica of the craft from the movie, but it's not exactly the most interesting Lego set you could have on display. What elevates it as a display piece is the drop-down side panels. They're on a simple hinge so you can change the layout on the fly, and the exposed interior adds some much-needed variety to what would otherwise be a big brown silhouette.

The inside of the barge is impressively decorated too, especially given the compact space the designers had to work with. There are also loads of mounting points for the huge cast of gorgeous minifigures, which is one of the other main draws of this set.

It could be argued that Lego is blurring the lines between their big expensive display models and the typically more affordable playsets here, but I think the interior sections are there to enhance the aesthetic of what would otherwise be a competent, but monotone-looking model. On that front, mission accomplished, but I'm still not convinced this set will see much interest outside of hardcore Star Wars UCS collectors.

Should you buy Lego Jabba's Sail Barge?

Jabba's Sail Barge is a beautiful model and a wonderful addition to the UCS line-up, but it's one of the more niche sets in the range. It's unlikely to be anyone's first, second, or even third choice for a big Lego set, especially at the current price. If you have a Lego Star Wars showcase shelf (or room) then you'll undoubtedly be picking this one up, and you'll have a great time with it. It's enjoyable to build and looks fantastic on display, particularly with the sides down revealing the bustling scene in the belly of the barge.

I suspect everyone else will skip out on this one for now, leaving Jabba (and Lego) to exclaim "Ma bookie, keel-ee calleya ku kah. Wanta dah moolee-rah…"

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego Jabba's Sail Barge

I built this set over four evenings, and it took around 8 hours to complete. I followed the instructions, making notes of difficult or confusing sections, while also highlighting the bits I enjoyed the most.

Once the build was finished, I considered the overall design: how good it looks, how accurately it replicates the iconic craft from the movie, and the playspace features inside.

You can find out more about our process in our 'how we test' guide.

For more from a galaxy far, far away, don't miss these Star Wars board games. As for building up your collection for less, be sure to check out these Lego deals.

Initially, this was restricted to small Lego Supply Llamas that were only sent out to select influencers, but now there are four full sets available for purchase, with the most popular proving to be the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073). Already on back order or sold out at many retailers, this build has been in high demand since it was first revealed.

But is the hype justified for this set? I'm happy to report that yes, it is! The Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) is a perfect example of a gaming crossover done right, with plenty of details that will appeal to fans of the battle royale. If you love Fortnite, it'll be one of the best Lego sets for you.

Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) features

• Quite expensive
• Large size for play and display
• Lots of minifigures

In terms of cost, the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus is up there and pushing close to the 'premium' price tag range. Interestingly, it has the same price as the Lego Fortnite Peely Bone (77072) set, despite that one having almost 500 more pieces included, though of course you can't measure value on brick count alone.

The Lego Fortnite Battle Bus definitely delivers on size, as you get a pretty hefty vehicle once you've completely assembled its close to one thousand pieces. It measures around 11 inches (28cm) long, and is slightly taller than that with the balloon taken into account, so you'll need a decent height available above a shelf you want to display it on.

We also need to talk about the Lego Fortnite minifigures that are included, as I believe they are a big part of the reason this set is so desirable. Minifigures have become hugely collectible items these days, and at the time of writing this set is the only way to get your hands on any official Lego Fortnite minifigs.

There are nine of them here, including (deep breath) Adventure Peely, Battalion Brawler, Brite Bomber, Cube Assassin, Cuddle Team Leader, Drift, Meowscles, Raven, and Trespasser Elite, with many featuring unique custom parts such as Peely's banana body and Meowscles' cat head. They also come with a range of instantly-recognisable battle royale accessories, including Pickaxes, Grapplers, Slurp Juice, and Slap Juice.

Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) build

• An involved but not overly long build
• Well laid out instructions
• A few repetitive steps

This is by no means a quick build, but it shouldn't take an especially long time to complete. I put together the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus in around five hours, constructing it in a single sitting without getting bored at any point. The parts are spread over eight paper bags plus a few separate larger unique pieces to form the balloon on top, which provides plenty of handy 'checkpoints' to stop if you want to break up the build into multiple sessions.

The impressively thick instruction booklet runs to over 200 pages with a total of 244 steps to complete, but everything is laid out well and I didn't get confused at any point. By using some clever color-coding of bricks that become hidden later in the build, it was easy to tell which end of the base I was working on before significant details were added – essential when looking at a section running to a whopping 31 studs in length! I also realized as the build progressed that there were both black and very dark blue pieces involved, but the clear instructions meant I'd already been using them for a time before I noticed.

While there weren't any particularly fiddly parts to this build, there were a few that became quite repetitive. Rather than employing standard Lego chairs for the Battle Bus seats, this build uses a bespoke construction featuring hinged pieces so the backrests can tilt – and while this is a cool idea no doubt introduced to cater for some of the larger minifig outfits, putting together nine of them in a row wasn't the most exciting step. Likewise, I gave an audible groan when I reached the step that required no less than twenty one windows to be constructed by clipping their tiny panes into the frames before mounting them around the bus.

While there are mercifully few of them included in this set, there are still 15 stickers to contend with that personally are the bane of my life when it comes to Lego builds. While most are large and relatively simple to attach, there are a couple of smaller stickers to place on angled pieces or in the center of round pieces which were a pain to position correctly. Printed-on designs would have been welcome here, though I suspect they would drive the price up further.

Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) design

• Very detailed replica of the in-game vehicle
• Roof can easily be removed to access interior
• Can still be used for play

As a regular Fortnite player I see the Battle Bus at the start of every match, and I was immediately struck by the level of detail that has been put into this build to replicate the in-game model. While there aren't any secret Easter eggs tucked away, there are some nice hidden touches such as the chunky engine under the hood and the tiny Battle Bus diagram on the dashboard display.

The exterior of the Battle Bus is chock-full of features that mirror the in-game counterpart, from the bright yellow hose connecting the radiator and the rooftop motor to the radar dish and bomb attached below the balloon. The propeller on the bomb even spins around when you blow on it, which is a nice touch. I initially felt the two stickered pieces on the side of the bus were somewhat superfluous, but after comparing them to the game I see they match up with patches of rust/worn lettering – though if I'm being extremely picky, the one on the right side should be further forward and I had to double check the booklet to make sure I'd put it where instructed.

Another nice touch is that rather than giving you all of the Lego Fortnite minifigures to begin with, they're spread throughout the bags, so you're gradually assembling your crew as you progress through the build.

While the Battle Bus works perfectly as a display piece, it can still be used for play as well, as it rolls smoothly on its wheels because the clamps don't actually attach. The roof can easily be removed as well to access the interior as there are only a couple of studs holding it in place, and the clamping arms fold upwards so it can be placed on a flat surface. There are enough seats inside to host all nine minifigs too, including one as the designated driver – just be sure to thank them before you drop!

Should you buy the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073)?

If you're a fan of Lego and Fortnite then this is an essential addition to your collection, as the Battle Bus is one of the most recognizable elements of the battle royale. The inclusion of nine official Lego Fortnite minifigs that you can't get anywhere else really elevates this set, making it a must-have for collectors.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073)

I sat down and built the Lego Fortnite Battle Bus (77073) set in a single five hour session, while listening to a few podcasts and taking a bit of time to admire the smaller details along the way. This could have easily been broken down into two or three separate sessions, as the individual bags of parts provide a natural break point at regular intervals.

For more, check out our guide to how we test products.

Looking for the perfect present for fans of a galaxy far, far away? Don't miss these Star Wars gifts or the best Star Wars board games.

The Lego C-3PO is not without its flaws, but they're overcome by a loving attention to detail. Some Lego kits are intended to be toys and some intended to be models, and this is undoubtedly the latter. Articulation and playability are made secondary to visual flourish, so while C-3PO might not do much once he's built, he cuts an undeniably impressive figure. It's not often you'll see somebody walking crotch-first, but Anthony Daniels undeniably did so in the movies, and even that gait is recreated here.

Lego C-3PO (75398) features

• Middling size and price
• Comes with presentation plaque
• Display piece - not a toy
• Pairs with R2-D2

In a world where Star Wars fans tend to gravitate more towards lightsabers, cool spaceships, and action-oriented characters, how does the burnished butler of the Skywalker Saga justify his presence? Well, it's a mid-size build that doesn't quite have the ridiculous price tag of models like the Lego UCS Millennium Falcon (even if it is one of the best Lego sets, and certainly amongst the best Lego Star Wars sets), with slightly over 1,000 pieces and an inherently thin, tall shape that means it wouldn't take up much in the way of desk or shelf space.

And that is where it will live. If you're thinking about buying this one for a kid, they might be a bit disappointed by the fact that C-3P0 is more of a conversation piece than an action figure. He comes included with a base stand that you can't even separate him from without just... breaking the build, and there's not much articulation to speak of - though more on that when we discuss design.

None of this is necessarily a complaint, it's just worth being clear about. If you're content to see ol' threepy stand proudly on a shelf and not much else, this will serve you superbly. If you want an actual toy, you're going to have to look elsewhere. Still, the fact that this was designed to fit perfectly with the 75379 Lego R2-D2 build is a wise move (even if he apparently has to stand on a little bit of dirt to get the respective heights right).

Lego C-3PO (75398) build

• A few hours to build
• Occasionally unclear instructions
• Comes together satisfyingly, especially at the end
• Lots of spare pieces
• Ugh, stickers

C-3PO is one of those kits where you know exactly how far through you are at any point without even having to glance at the manual - because you are, in all important senses of the word, making a person. You build a leg, another leg, a nice shiny codpiece to hold them together, a base to stand them on, and then you just start working your way up the torso. The effort made towards making C-3PO actually stand in the right posture and not just flatly T-pose means there's some behind the scenes witchcraft, using special joints in such a way that feel like you're somehow breaking the rules - Lego is a reality of hard right-angles, after all.

But the instructions weren't necessarily great, and there were moments where I found myself having to go back and correct earlier errors, though thankfully never more than a few steps behind. Certain pieces are laid out in such a way that you can't see their placement unless you're actually looking for them, and the manual never figured out how to clearly delineate between the golden brown of the sandy base and the browny-gold of C-3PO's chassis, leading to occasional frustration.

Still, while the early legwork (ha ha) is a bit tepid, it's quite satisfying to see it all coming together in the back half, watching the torso raise and taper up. There were a lot of spare pieces at the end though - to the point of wondering if I'd missed something - and any set that includes those damn fiddly stickers is always going to be at least a little annoying.

Lego C-3PO (75398) design

• Great display piece
• Amazing attention to detail
• Lacks any meaningful articulation

Part of the reason the build comes together so well at the end is because C-3PO cuts a damn impressive figure, and the end result looks really good. Visual detail is a priority here, and while the face is a little off the mark, every other nuance is superbly represented, from the uneven sandy dirt of Tatooine to that aforementioned crotch-first gait that 3PO had in the movies when shuffling around.

What you're left with is a statue model that's clear and impressive from close-up or across the room, with enough rounded casing pieces to smooth down the appearance into something magnificently accurate.

What's lost is much in the way of articulation and control. C-3PO can swivel his head, has some limited finger movements, and lift his arms a bit, though not much. If you want to move his legs, or turn his torso, to have him lean forward or backwards even a smidgen, that ain't happening. I know in the movies he was about as physically flexible as a brick, but the Lego build is somehow even less compromising. The option to easily detach the torso to stick on a Wookie's back would've been a cute idea - just saying.

Still, that visual flourish is undeniable, and if you're happy with this model's status as a model, the lack of movement shouldn't really be an issue

What's lost is much in the way of articulation and control. C-3PO can swivel his head, has some limited finger movements, and lift his arms a bit, though not much. If you want to move his legs, or turn his torso, to have him lean forward or backwards even a smidgen, that ain't happening. I know in the movies he was about as physically flexible as a brick, but the Lego build is somehow even less compromising. The option to easily detach the torso to stick on a Wookie's back would've been a cute idea - just saying.

Still, that visual flourish is undeniable, and if you're happy with this model's status as a model, the lack of movement shouldn't really be an issue.

Should you buy the Lego C-3PO (75398)?

Considering there's no other variant of C-3PO on the market, what else are fans of the character going to get? In all seriousness, this is a good build - maybe a touch overpriced and fiddly at times, but I've seen Lego sets at twice the size of C-3PO and still lack the attention to visual detail that's present here. If you make your peace with the fact that he'll never do more than a gentle wave, this should serve every need you have.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested the Lego C-3PO (75398)

I made the Lego C-3PO (75398) over an evening and a morning, aided by a couple of beers and a couple of coffees depending on the time of day, in two slots of roughly two hours per piece, working fairly single-mindedly on the project. The end result was finished around three and a half hours, though the occasional correction (as mentioned above) may have caused it to take slightly longer than it would have otherwise.

For more, check out our guide to how we test products.

Want to build your collection for less? Check out the latest Lego deals. As for what's still to come, don't miss these new Lego sets.

Fair enough, but assuming that we can think of the 75379 edition of R2 as the budget model, does it hold up as a worthy contender and worthy of the lesser price? Well - yes, with a couple of minor caveats. Arguably flying the flag for Star Wars Lego as much as those giant Millennium Falcon kits (still amongst the best Lego sets overall), or the agony of treading on a Jar Jar Binks minifig, a Lego R2-D2 of any scope and scale was always going to be putting the effort in.

Lego R2-D2 (75379) features

• Impressive scope for price
• Pairs with C-3PO figure
• Comes with presentation plaque - and Darth Malak, for some reason

A suitable stocky and stalwart model, R2 as presented here is more of a pliant toy than the C-3PO counterpart. Down from an 18+ rating to a mere 10+ and with some more customization options, the great incongruity between the two Lego Star Wars sets that are supposedly meant to pair with each other is that they're clearly intended for different purposes. C-3PO is supposed to sit on a shelf and occasionally manage a slight head tilt or a royal wave. Meanwhile, R2 is a robust model with all sorts of modular components and no built-in base to speak of.

I like it more this way, to be honest. R2 as presented here isn't quite as adjustable as the more expensive 75308 version of the model, but you can switch his poses from two legs to three, give him his hacking tools, spin his head around and set up that scuba-eye-periscope thing he was using in Episode V.

But at the same time, it will work nicely as a shelf-piece, as the appearance is pretty good and accurate, especially from a distance where all those sharp Lego edges blur into R2's rounded chassis. The only downside is that all those peripheral tools and prongs aren't built into the model - they have to be fitted on and then just pulled off the body like an insect's wing when you change your mind, so you'll need somewhere to store them between computer hacking.

The other thing that was odd was the completely unexplained inclusion of a Darth Malak figurine. The R2 model comes with the now-standard presentation plaque and minifig incarnation of himself, but there's also the main villain from Knights of the Old Republic, for some reason standing on a black table. Why, I don't know - I suppose it's not a fault of the kit per se, but they might as well have included Ratts Tyerell for all the real relevance it has.

Lego R2-D2 (75379) build

• A few hours to build
• Not an especially engaging construction
• Clear instructions with few presentation flaws
• Stickers, as ever, remain annoying

As a build, the Lego R2-D2 was painless, if a bit unremarkable. R2 being just a big mailbox means that most of the process is creating a large, rounded can and then sticking a couple of identical legs on it (which means about one fifth of the build is repeating yourself). I know that's an unavoidable issue, but the reality is that it was never going to be quite as satisfying as making the interior of a spaceship or a more fiddly, visually-nuanced construct like one of the Destroyer Droids.

Still, as mentioned, R2 does look really good when it all comes together, barring some slightly oversized wiring about the feet that kind of makes it look like his shoes are untied. The model is accurate and does a lot with a little, and I found the instructions were pretty clear for the most part, preventing any annoying errors or real need to backtrack. The only real stumbling block was the build's love of stickers, which inevitably become a fiddly mess as you apply them over and over on a piece slightly too big for them, trying to get the angle right.

Lego R2-D2 (75379) design

• Superb visual look
• Modular additions will appeal to some
• Good value for money

While creating R2-D2 isn't the most thrilling process, the final result is actually very impressive, and helped really bring me around on the whole thing. Putting aside that having R2's various tools built into the model would've made construction more stimulating, the final result stands as one of the best value-for-money builds I've seen from Lego in a while, and treads a lovely middle ground between visual fidelity and playability.

My only major caveat is the middle support leg - rather than something that can fold up into the droid's body when you want him to stand upright, you instead just have to rip it off the model in a manner that feels... rather uncomfortable to watch, and always feels like something's going to break when you do (though admittedly it never actually did). Plus, that severed foot then becomes yet another extraneous piece of the model to be kept in a drawer.

Still, the actual ratcheting back and forth between upright and leaning is clean, with an internal gear system that's sturdy enough to hold the pose, but not rigid enough to feel like something's going to snap. I find that everybody has an unspoken, intuitive preference for seeing R2 in one stance or the other - the Star Wars equivalent of choosing to wipe standing up or sitting down. Having the model handle both easily is probably one of the most important factors at play.

Should you buy Lego R2-D2 (75379)?

Assuming you don't want to put out a bigger budget on the grander and more illustrious version 75308, this model provides good value for money and a tangible reason to buy for both younger and older builders. A slightly less enthralling build process and modular design don't detract from that to any great degree, and there are few people who'll regret spending on this - even if they're as bewildered by the inclusion of Malak as I am.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested the Lego R2-D2 (75379)

I made the Lego R2-D2 (75379) over three days in segments of about an hour each in my living room, usually in the evenings. The final result was closer to three hours than four, through younger model makers may need to take a little longer.

For more, check out our guide to how we test products.

For the latest discounts, be sure to check out our page of Lego deals. As for what's coming next, don't miss these new Lego sets.

Luckily, official game guides aren't a lost art, and you can currently pre-order the Metaphor: ReFantazio Official Strategy Guide for $54.99 at Amazon. It doesn't release until February 28, 2025, but pre-ordering will secure your copy with Amazon's pre-order guarantee. Better yet, it's an ideal pickup if Santa grabbed one of the best PS5 game deals and got you the game for the holidays. The hardback not only features a spoiler-free guide to the entire game but also a detailed look at every item, piece of equipment, and foe you'll come across in the Atlus RPG.

Should you buy the Metaphor: ReFantazio Official Strategy Guide?

I've been collecting guides since the late 90s, and I always recommend pre-ordering them when you can - especially where hardbacks are considered. If I never pre-ordered my The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Game of the Year guide, I'd be subject to the extortionate second-hand prices from cheeky re-sellers. Now it, and all the stunning artwork inside, sits amongst my game guide shelf, where I'm also saving a spot for the official Metaphor: ReFantazio book.

As an avid Atlus and Persona fan, I've eagerly saved a spot for the game amongst my back catalog. With all the PS5 sales floating around, I was planning on picking it up asap, but saving it until February when I could also have the official strategy guide at my disposal sounds like a better option.

Atlus RPGs are notorious for being an investment of your time. Just like Persona 5 Royal, Metaphor: ReFantazio is long, taking about 80 - 90 hours for an average playthrough. Having the official guide along for the ride will surely make it an easier ride, especially as it contains a walkthrough for every event and details on every single item and piece of collectible equipment.

There are also details about all the characters' skills and Synthesis attacks, so I can master the RPG and blast through it in no time. For those, like myself, who love picking up a physical guide for collection's sake, pre-ordering the Metaphor: ReFantazio Official Strategy Guide will mean you can get your hands on a bonus poster featuring a full map of the game's world of Euchronia - perfect for sprucing up your RPG-loving gaming setup.

If you picked up Metaphor: ReFantazio on the PS5, our best PS5 controllers guide is full of our favorite peripherals that you can pair with the Atlus RPG. We've also rounded up all the best PS5 SSDs and best PS5 headsets to complete your Sony gaming setup.

The figure is now available for just £89.99 with delivery ahead of Christmas Day for Prime members. That's a £25 saving on the original RRP, and a return to a record-low price only previously spotted for a few days last month. Considering this is easily in the running as one of the best Lego sets of the year, that's a fantastic result.

This has been a full priced set until very recently (and it remains that way at a number of retailers this week), but has only dropped to £99.99 with any real regularity over the last few weeks. Similar Lego deals are available at other stores, with Very also posting an £89.99 sales price, but I'd stick with Amazon if you need that speedy shipping.

Should you buy the Lego Mario & Yoshi set?

Longtime Mario fans will already have their eyes on this retro set, but anyone with a collection of Lego's gaming icons should be taking note too. After diving headfirst into the Lego Pac-Man Arcade, I started building a suite of video game inspired builds, and it wouldn't be complete without this hero and his dinosaur pal. The build process itself starts easy, then goes full technical, then ends with a super relaxing stud mosaic, reminiscent of the brand's Lego Art range.

That technical squeeze in the middle was the only slightly frustrating part of the experience for me. The entire structure is built off a central platform, hosting all the gears and levers you need for the moving parts (no spoilers here). Smaller pieces seemed to fall off slightly easier compared to other technical builds I've done (the Lego Typewriter being the most complex so far), and lining up larger sections to hook in correctly took a little jimmying as well. I never spent more than a couple of minutes fixing a problem or connecting a cross axle, though.

It was obvious throughout the build, though, that this was going to be one of my favorite Lego sets. Never mind the classic characters, the detail running throughout is impeccable and the finished result runs incredibly smoothly. I'd recommend it to anyone looking to spend a larger chunk of time on a build (it took me just under a week of relaxed building for a couple of hours per day) who already has a few technical sections under their belt.

Of course, there are plenty of upcoming Lego sets to get excited about in the new year, but we're also rounding up all the best gifts for gamers and plenty more of the best Nintendo Switch gifts available right now.

You can currently grab one of the biggest Lego Animal Crossing sets for $59.99 at Walmart instead of $74.99 and, so far as I'm able to tell, it's never been cheaper. OK, so it arrives after Christmas. But if you want a self-gift to chase away the winter blues, this should do the trick.

Based in the UK? Not to worry, you can pick the set up for £55 at Argos rather than £69.99.

Want to know what else you should look out for? Check our guide to the best Lego sets for more recommendations.

Should you buy Lego K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza?

A lot of whether you should buy this kit will come down to a couple of factors: whether it's your first Lego Animal Crossing set, if you want a centerpiece for your mini village, and if you love K.K. enough to warrant shelling out the cash.

Let's start backwards with that final point. To put it plainly, this is the only set to include the DJ doggo - he doesn't appear anywhere else. As for wanting a showstopper to cap off your collection, this is a pretty solid purchase. As one of the biggest Lego Animal Crossing builds, it provides a natural focal point for everything else to be laid out around... which is fitting, seeing as it's usually in the middle of your in-game village.

However, if this would be your first AC set, I'd actually recommend opting for Lego Isabelle's House Visit instead. As we mention in our review, this one "captures that game magic perfectly" thanks to bundling up some of the franchise's most iconic elements for a reasonable price. Indeed, you can grab it for $31.95 at Amazon instead of the usual $39.99 right now.

While K.K.'s Concert at the Plaza is a grand build, it's somewhat minimalist in approach and works best as part of a collection rather than on its own.

For more discounts, be sure to check out the latest Christmas sales for gamers. As for last-minute present ideas, why not drop by our gifts for gamers guide?

That's why I've gone ahead and corralled the best Lego Christmas sales that will arrive before Xmas. Walmart currently seems like a solid bet if you want to play it safe, while Amazon has some offers that should get there in the nick of time. Either way, I'd act sooner than later if you want to avoid disappointment. As an example, Amazon is saying that some items could arrive between December 23/27 if you order today. In other words, we're starting to play with fire.

Seeing as some of the best Lego sets are included in this year's haul, and many are seeing record low prices, it's certainly worth a look at the very least. Good luck - here's hoping you enjoy a little Christmas miracle and get what you need before cutoff.

For more reductions over the festive period, don't miss the best Christmas sales for gamers or these must-have gifts for gamers.

Disney Christmas merch is like peanut butter and jelly. Both the holiday and those beloved movies are the equivalent of a warm hug, so they blend perfectly at this most wonderful time of year.

That's why I look out for Disney Christmas merch whenever sweater weather approaches; there's something a little magical about the range. Because there's always a lot to choose from, I've whipped up my own nice list of gear that I think deserves to be under the tree this year. As an example, I'm a big fan of the Mickey Mouse Icon Holiday ''Merry Christmas'' Spirit Jersey – it's a lighter jumper despite being baubled up to the nines, meaning it'll be cozy enough to keep the chill away but not so much that you boil. I've got the Walt Disney World version myself, and I'm a little smitten with it.

So, let's get to it. Regardless of whether you want a present for yourself to get in the festive spirit or timely Disney gifts, you should find something to suit you below.

Best Disney Christmas decorations 2024

The Holidays are all about decorations so far as I'm concerned, and that's why they're some of the best Disney Christmas merch in my opinion. There's no shortage of ornaments to hang from your tree, or display pieces to spruce up the mantle with some Christmas spirit.

While a few have already gone out of stock (like the cute Mickey Mouse bauble that looks like a peppermint and glows), plenty of others still line those shelves. You can grab decs inspired by everything from Nightmare Before Christmas to the Marvel universe, and I can say from personal experience that they're of a surprisingly high quality. Actually, that's true for all of Disney's tree decorations I've seen this year. The paintwork on them is consistently neat (they don't feel like tacky rush-jobs) and most are made of a weighty material that feels premium. They're not all created equal, of course, but most are pretty great.

You can find the full range of decorations at the Disney Store (or here if you're based in the UK), but I've listed a few of my favorites below.

GamesRadar+ recommends

Best Disney Christmas toys

You can always rely on Disney toys modelled around holidays, and Christmas enjoys some of the best ones. Yes, Disney Halloween plushies are all well and good – but they can't compete with the Christmas equivalents. And we're not just talking about the classic Mickey and Minnie combo, either. Santa Jabba the Hutt, Winter Spider-Man, and more are also crashing the end-of-year party.

Not that it's all about the soft toys, of course. Plenty of Disney properties get a festive makeover to celebrate the season, be it Home Alone or Star Wars. While you can find these at the Disney store (or at the UK shop), I've listed some of my standouts here.

GamesRadar+ recommends

Best Disney Christmas homeware & apparel

When it comes to Christmas-time, staying cozy is the name of the game – and this year's Disney homeware understands that assignment. From snuggly hooded blankets to sweaters galore, this makes up the bulk of Disney's Holiday offerings… and I'm here for it.

It's been a good haul in 2024. Alongside a host of funny Christmas jumpers (a personal highlight is the Homer-Simpson-vanishing-into-a-bush meme reimagined as a Christmas tree), classy kitchenware and throws have been on-hand to brighten the season. Again, stock is starting to dwindle, but there's still enough to furnish your home with some Holiday cheer.

You can see the full range at the Disney Store (here for UK readers), but I've rounded up a few of my own highlights.

GamesRadar+ recommends

Want some present inspiration? Don't miss these gifts for gamers, or must-have PS5 gifts.

You can currently grab the Lego D&D set (or 'Dungeons & Dragons: Red Dragon's Tale' when it's at home) for £236.25 at Argos instead of the usual £314.99. Besides being nearly £100 off, that's legitimately the only price cut I've ever seen on this kit. That's because it's only available from the official Lego store - where it stubbornly refuses to drop below RRP - and Argos.

I'm unsure of how long the reduction is going to last, though. And because this saving is so rare, I'd be loathe to suggest waiting for a further saving. In all honesty, I think we're lucky to get this one.

Should you buy Lego D&D?

If you were holding on for the best possible deal, I'd say without hesitation to dive in now. I've been covering the best Lego sets for a while, and reductions like this on new and exclusive kits are rare. As such, I don't think there's much point in holding on for a further saving; you're unlikely to get one, at least not any time soon.

As for whether the set is worth buying, I'd say a lot depends on how much display space you have. Although it's not as big as Rivendell or the UCS Millennium Falcon, the D&D kit is still sizeable. It's pretty broad thanks to its multiple sections (ranging from dungeons to a tavern), and while it won't match something like Barad-dur for height, it's not exactly 'short.'

As for the quality of what's included, seeing this in person impressed me. Many of the best kits have multiple hidden corners, secrets, and scenes within the larger model, and Red Dragon's Tale is littered with them. It's the kind of thing you could spend ages just gawking at, be it the dungeon level under the main kit filled with skeletons, the little myconid colony, or the pub where something is clearly afoot. I'm sorry, but that landlord has 'dodgy dragon cult' written all over him.

Speaking of which, there's an impressive army of minifigures to go with this set. Aside from the poseable dragon itself, you get a host of adventurers and iconic monsters to populate this diorama. Oh, and there's even a short adventure included within the box. It's not necessarily the best story by any means, but it's an unnecessary touch that I appreciate nonetheless. It just shows how dedicated Lego are to pleasing the fans, which is always nice to see.

For more reductions, check out the latest Lego deals. As for presents, why not drop in on our D&D gifts guide?

That's the conundrum I expect many fans to be facing on this fine Thursday, because the (bloody excellent) Lego Rivendell kit has returned to a record low price ahead of the festive period. To be precise, £364.99 at Amazon instead of £429.99. Sound the bells, because it's a Christmas miracle!

In all seriousness, I hadn't expected an encore on this deal after we saw it for Black Friday last month; a reduction like that is typically a one-and-done affair for the year, and the kit typically hovers around RRP the rest of the time. (Which is understandable, considering how it's one of the best Lego sets imo.) As such, I'm not sure how long the discount will last. Indeed, Amazon lists this as a "limited" offer, so its days could be numbered.

Should you buy Lego Rivendell?

As I mentioned in my Lego Rivendell review, I am obsessed with this set. It's fiercely creative and is absolutely covered in hidden details that you could spend a very long time poring over. That makes it just as enjoyable to have on display as it is to build - which, even though it'll take you hours, is equally fun.

Of course, I can't go any further without referring to the Oliphaunt in the room - that price. Even though it's never been cheaper, this is still an expensive model. Actually, it's eye-watering. But I genuinely don't think we'll ever get it for much less than £300, and that'd be in a lightning sale during Black Friday or a similar event (that's certainly been the case with massive kits such as the UCS Millennium Falcon). Plus, I'd argue that it's worth the cost. This is an incredibly well-made model that looks fantastic on show, and in my opinion, it's the best kit Lego has ever constructed.

That said, be aware that there are alternatives to consider. For starters, Lego Barad-dur is out there as a Lego store exclusive and is just as EYE-catching (heh). In addition, there are rumours we'll be getting a Bag End set alongside other as-yet-unnamed models due in 2025. Although this should be taken with a pinch of salt because it hasn't been confirmed yet, I'd be surprised if we didn't get a larger, more intricate take on Bilbo and Frodo's home at some point. We can but hope, anyway.

For more, be sure to check out the latest Lego deals. If you want presents worthy of your loved ones, don't miss these gifts for gamers either!

The official Tolkien Calendar is something I treat myself to every year because I'm obsessed with his legendarium. Right now, the 2025 edition only costs $13.59 at Amazon down from its regular $16.99 price, and it'll arrive in time for December 25 if you order now. For LOTR geeks like me, this calendar is gold dust for so many reasons, but when it comes in under $15 it's a no-brainer.

The 2025 edition pays homage to The History of Middle Earth, which is a 12-volume series of books published after JRR Tolkien's passing but collated and edited by his son Christopher. I'll tell you why, from my perspective, this is a must-buy gift for any Tolkien fan in a second, but before I get started, let's look at the specifics of the deal.

Should you buy the Official Tolkien Calendar for 2025?

Physical calendars are often viewed as pointless in this day and age of digital calendars and planners we carry around with us on our phones. I disagree though, because with Tolkien's Official calendar hanging on my wall, each new month has a distinct feel to it. If you live with someone else, you can also use a physical calendar to write reminders of things you do together.

From the Tolkien-obsessed point of view though, the official Tolkien calendar is akin to the best gifts for gamers. It features authentic paintings and illustrations from veteran Tolkien artists like John Howe, who helped Peter Jackson with concept art for his films. Not only that, but each piece of art has a small blurb beneath it which puts it into context from a novel or tale from Tolkien's works. I love these in particular because even if it's a more obscure tale from the Silmarillion I may have forgotten about, I feel like I'm pouring over old maps or reading old Ring lore by candlelight in the bowels of Minas Tyrith.

With 2025's edition, you get a foreword from Brian Sibley, who's written countless adaptions and guidebooks for various Lord of the Rings books. Perhaps most notably, he wrote a biography of Peter Jackson and edited the book The Fall of Numenor before its release in 2022.

With such an affordable price tag, this is the sort of authentic, loving gift you can get someone special in your life that isn't going to keep you from being able to spend money on other people too.

Looking for something for the gamer in your life? Check out the best PS5 gifts, the best Xbox Series X gifts, and the best Nintendo Switch gifts.

Features

• The smallest, most affordable Animal Crossing set
• Only one minifigure
• Not many Animal Crossing connections

Julian's Birthday Party consists of the Julian minifigure and a small selection of green grassy plates on which you can assemble the unicorn's various presents, assortment of birthday party supplies, and an iconic Animal Crossing tree - complete with hidden surprise inside.

The set is meant to be a nod to celebrating your birthday, or that of one of your villagers, in Animal Crossing New Horizons, but rather than being inside one of the villagers' homes, this set takes the festivities outside. The gifts, bunting decoration, and little cakes are great fun to build and set out, but there's something distinctively 'Animal Crossing' missing about this set in the range. It's unlikely to rank amongst the best Lego sets as a result.

Handily, it combines really well with any other set in the Animal Crossing Lego range, which makes this affordable kit hard to recommend on its own but excellent as a gift or treat for anyone looking to build out their own New Horizons island with multiple Lego Animal Crossing models.

Build

• Only takes around 30 minutes to build
• Easy construction

Even with me taking my time to enjoy building this set, Julian's Birthday Party will only take you around 30 minutes from start to finish. There's not much complexity here, beyond the placement of the pieces atop the presents to create the bows and other such decorations. It's fiddly at worst, but not taxing at all.

However, that does reflect the fact that this is a very entry-level set when it comes to its price. It's not designed to be a complex, lengthy build, but more a quick blocky way to fill some time with something cute.

Design

• A sweet little set
• Missing some Animal Crossing nods
• Julian remains a top-tier Animal Crossing villager

Julian's Birthday Party feels designed to be an addition to your collection rather than a starting point or a solo purchase. It's delightful in its own way, with its pastel color scheme, array of presents, cupcakes, and other birthday paraphernalia. The bunting is a nice touch, and really adds some verticality to this otherwise fairly compact set.

Meanwhile, the Julian minifig with its interstellar hoodie captures the in-game character well. The ability to add a little gold party hat is pretty adorable too.

But, I do think this set is missing some of the hidden nods to the Animal Crossing: New Horizons game that I've discovered building other sets in the Lego Animal Crossing range. The tree keeps its secrets, and the presents can be filled with small items, but beyond the tree design and Julian himself, it doesn't exactly scream 'Animal Crossing' like the other sets.

Should you buy Lego Julian's Birthday Party?

The Lego Animal Crossing Julian's Birthday Party set is a great way to expand your collection or as a treat for a younger fan. It's really sweet, but lacks the Animal Crossing tie-ins that really make the other sets so lustworthy.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How we tested Lego Julian's Birthday Party

The Julian's Birthday Party set was built on a Saturday, taking around 30 minutes to complete and admire. We compared the set's features and quality to that of other Animal Crossing Lego builds, much of which I had also bought and built myself in the same weekend.

For more on our review process, make sure to check out our 'how we test' guide.

Looking for more bricks to build? Be sure to check out the best Lego Star Wars sets. It's also worth dropping in on our guide to Lego deals if you want to save some money along the way.

This year's Cyber Monday Lego deals have seen prices come tumbling down like a Jenga tower when you pull out the bottom brick. That means we're knee-deep in discounts right now, so where should you start? If you ask me, I'd recommend focusing on a few kits in particular - either because they've hit a record low price or are hard to find most of the time.

As an example, it's been increasingly hard to track down the Lego Horizon Tallneck for anything close to MSRP, so the fact that it's currently $27 less at Amazon right now is notable. Similarly, one of my favorite Star Wars dioramas - the podrace - has been knocked down to $55.99 at Best Buy rather than $79.99 as part of today's Cyber Monday Lego deals.

That's just the top of the pile, of course; plenty more savings are available. The downside is that I don't know how long they're going to last. I've been covering both Cyber Monday and Lego for over five years now, and in my experience the discounts dry up or go our of stock as we near the end of the day. As a result, I wouldn't wait to see if the price drops any more; it's unlikely to. The early bird gets the Lego worm, in this case!

Quick links

• Amazon: Save up to $50
• Walmart: Get up to $43 off
• Best Buy: Up to $45 off
• Lego Store: Save up to 40%

UK

• Amazon: Save up to £40
• Very: Up to £90 off
• John Lewis: Save up to 25%
• Lego Store: Get up to 40% off
• Smyths: Save up to £195

My top picks

Live updates

Welcome to the party, pal

Hey everyone, and welcome to the Cyber Monday sale! How are you finding it so far? It's been a busy one here at GamesRadar+ HQ thanks to the sheer volume of reductions that have been available, and that's why I'm breaking some of my favorites down here. But first, some tips and tricks to help you make the most of the event...

Tips and tricks to make the most of Cyber Monday Lego deals

Want to know how to make the most of Cyber Monday? I may be able to help with that. I started at GamesRadar+ in 2018 and have covered the event (and Lego, for that matter) on the site ever since. That means I've built up some must-dos along with a few must-nots, chief of which is:

And that's it for now! Stick with these suggestions and you shouldn't go far wrong as we enter the final hours of the Cyber Monday Lego deals. Good luck, and I've got my fingers crossed that you find the set you're looking for!

The discount is strong with this one...

Cue the Imperial March, because I'm pretty sure Lego Darth Vader's Helmet has never been cheaper. From my research, it'd appear that we've not gone much below $55.99 before now. As such, a reduction to $48.98 via Walmart is excellent going. This kit is also an older one that I think is due to retire in the not so distant future, so now may be your best chance to get it for less.

Lego Star Wars Darth Vader's Helmet | $79.99 $48.98 at Walmart

Perfectly balanced, as all things should be

With a snap of your fingers... well, you couldn't actually snap anything (other than a few hours of building) with this gauntlet replica, but it looks darn cool. Featuring all of the Infinity Stones on Thanos' fetching glove, it's an awesome display piece that has only ever been a few cents cheaper.

Lego Marvel Infinity Gauntlet | $79.99 $45 at Amazon

Autobots, roll out!

A discount in disguise has appeared! You can currently grab Lego Bumblebee for his lowest ever price.

Yes, it's a small discount... but seriously, I don't think I've seen the kit get any kind of saving before. As such, this reduction - which knocks 7% off the sticker price at Amazon - is well worth a look, particularly if the latest movie has reignited your interest in the Transformers.

And yes, this thing does actually transform.

Lego Transformers Bumblebee | $89.99 $83.99 at Amazon

Roll for initiative

This is another small discount in the grand scheme of things, but it's actually the lowest price we've seen for the product in question. And if you're a fan of all things DnD, you'll want to see it.

Yes, you can pick up a box of six Dungeons & Dragons minifigs for 16% less at Amazon in honor of Cyber Monday Lego deals, and the range includes generic adventurers you can use/modify to represent your own characters alongside better-known characters like Tasha and Strahd von Zarovich. Perfect for fans or as a gift for the DnD player in your life, in other words.

Lego Dungeons & Dragons Minifigures | $29.99 $25.16 at Amazon

Avengers, ASSEMBLE!

I can feel that stirring Avengers theme tune coming on, because this kit - based on the first movie - has hit its lowest price for 2024's Cyber Monday Lego deals. Because it's a cheaper, smaller kit already, it's the perfect stocking filler either for yourself or a loved one that adores Marvel.

Lego Marvel The Avengers vs. The Leviathan | $49.99 $39.99 at Amazon

Holy lowest-ever-price, Batman!

This bricky take on The Batman's bike is a rare find these days, and it doesn't seem widely available anymore. As such, seeing it hit a record low price here via Walmart is quite eye-catching. If this seems like your speed, don't hesitate - I sincerely doubt you'd find a better offer, particularly now that it's harder to track down than the Bat himself.

Lego Technic The Batman Batcycle | $45 $29.98 at Walmart

CHOMP CHOMP

I've talked about this discount before, and I'll happily tout it again until it's gone. You see, I adore this kit. It's so full of character, and is the perfect display piece for fans of Super Mario - it's fun but not overly difficult to build, makes a statement but doesn't dominate a space, and it has hidden secrets. Mwah, chef's kiss.

Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant | $59.99 $47.95 at Amazon

Forbidden West

Here's another discount that isn't a record low, but is an excellent Cyber Monday Lego deal. That's because the Horizon Tallneck is tricky to track down these days due to being a retired product, and price-matching tells me that its average cost has gone way above MSRP recently (presumably due to the Lego video game). With that in mind, I can't find a reason not to rave about this respectable saving.

Lego Horizon Tallneck | $89.99 $62.99 at Amazon

You're a (Lego) spy, and a traitor

I wasn't expecting to fall so in love with Lego Boarding the Tantive IV, but it's won me over. Recreating that moment from the opening of A New Hope where Vader and co blast their way aboard Leia's totally legit diplomatic mission ship, it has a neat 'exploded' door effect and a blear brick so the Dark Lord of the Sith can Force 'choke' the captain in mid-air. It's a cheap but highly effective diorama, so seeing it dip to a record low price makes this an easy recommendation.

Lego Boarding the Tantive IV | $54.99 $43.95 at Amazon

Ohana means family

I don't know if I've ever seen such an adorable Lego kit, and it's currently cheaper than ever as part of 2024's Cyber Monday Lego deals. That makes it a winner regardless of whether you want an extra decoration for your desk or an easy present for the Disney fan in your life.

Lego Disney Stitch | $64.99 $51.95 at Amazon

Who has the best Cyber Monday Lego deals right now?

It might come as a surprise, but the official Lego Store isn't always the best place to find the biggest discounts on these sets. Right now, Walmart and Amazon are out in the lead, offering more record-low prices on a wider variety of sets than other retailers. Both stores are fully in the swing of their Cyber Monday offers right now, but both will also finish up those discounts at midnight tonight.

However, I've also noticed that Best Buy has a few sets on the shelves that are currently unavailable elsewhere - and they're still discounted. If you've been waiting on a grail and it's not appearing at Walmart or Amazon, it's well worth checking in with this yellow label store before the end of the sale.

Everybody just relax! The Lego Icons Tranquil Garden is now at its lowest price yet

The Lego Icons Tranquil Garden set has just dropped from its $109.99 MSRP to a record-low $87.95 at Amazon - pretty impressive considering this is a sales price I've only ever seen once before this year's holiday sales fully kicked off. The Japanese Zen garden model features a whole range of super chilled out vibes, including tiny little koi carp. The 1,363pc set has been a little tricky to find on sale this year so far, but things are certainly looking up right now.

Lego Icons Tranquil Garden | $109.99 $87.95 at Amazon

Music lovers unite!

The Lego Ideas Fender Stratocaster is now down to its lowest price yet at Amazon. The $119.99 set has taken a $24 discount from its usual $119.99 MSRP to dip below $100 for the first time in a month. This is a record-low price that was neglected over Black Friday itself, but it's back on the shelves for Cyber Monday - excellent timing if you've slept on this older set since release. This one seems to be constantly out of stock at Lego direct, so this could be a last chance grab.

Lego Ideas Fender Stratocaster | $119.99 $95.99 at Amazon

It's that time of year again

This Lego Christmas tree is on sale for its best price ever over at Amazon. This Cyber Monday Lego deal marks one of the earliest major discounts for the set as it only just released in early October 2024. Fun fact: this set is actually a 2-in-1 set where you can build either a bigger tree or two smaller models.

Lego Christmas Tree | $44.99 $30.99 at Amazon

Sometimes you need a plant that can't die

While I don't own this specific Lego plant set, I've purchased many others in the past and been surprisingly pleased with the results. There's something very soothing about building something that will never die, and it's actually kind of fascinating to see the ways in which the designers have crafted these out of existing bits – it looks like some of these flowers are actually seashells, for example. Plus, it doesn't hurt that this price matches the previous low we've seen.

Lego Icons Tiny Plants | $49.99 $39.95 at Amazon

Sorry to bug you but

The Cyber Monday Lego deal price for the Lego Ideas The Insect Collection set matches the previous low we saw back in July at 20% off. If you're not a big fan of plants, maybe you're a big fan of bugs? And if you're not, maybe you can make an exception for Lego bugs anyway?

Lego Ideas The Insect Collection | $79.99 $63.95 at Amazon

A galaxy can also be small and blocky

This Cyber Monday, it's important to remember that sometimes the best deals aren't the biggest ones. Lego has an entire line of these "Microfighters" that are typically pretty cheap to start with. This Y-Wing set with Captain Rex has matched its previous low, and if you're in the market for stocking stuffers, well, now's your chance.

Lego Captain Rex Y-Wing Microfighter | $12.99 $9.97 at Amazon

'tis the season after all

This Cyber Monday price for the Lego Santa's Sleigh set matches its previous low at $27.99. Given that it's already December and there's a whopping 343 pieces in the set, it's a solid bargain for the sleigh, Santa himself, and four reindeer figures. Just ho-ho-hope this deal doesn't go away soon.

Lego Santa’s Sleigh | $39.99 $27.99 at Amazon

Punch it (to this Lego deal)

Of all the Cyber Monday Lego deals I've covered, this is by far the most personally tempting. The Lego The Mandalorian's N-1 Starfighter set is a lovely recreation of the character's newest ride, complete with Baby Yoda (aka Grogu) and droid. It's also at a price that matches the previous low. The ship has been somewhat controversial among fans, but for me? What a lovely connection between old and the new.

Lego The Mandalorian's N-1 Starfighter | $59.99 $47.99 at Amazon

Thanks everyone, we're out!

The Cyber Monday sale is officially done, and its discounts are starting to wind down. With that in mind, I'm putting this live blog to bed. Thanks so much for following along with me and the GamesRadar+ team - I hope you managed to snag a bargain or two!

The Lego Disney Stitch kit (which only came out a few months ago) hasn't ever been cheaper than it is now, and you can grab it ahead of Cyber Monday proper for $51.95 at Amazon rather than $64.99. We've literally never seen it for less, and because it got this saving in honor of Black Friday's Lego deal deluge, I doubt it'll fall any further than that.

Naturally, it's not the only reduction kicking around on the bricks from Billund. You can get a bargain on pretty much everything from Star Wars sets to Harry Potter in the run up to this week's Cyber Monday Lego deals, so it's worth a look if you've had your eye on something.

Should you buy Lego Stitch?

Having seen this kit up close, I can safely say that it's as adorable as it looks in promo images. Along with a cheesy grin, movable ears, and a pose that makes it look as if he's a puppy that's just seen you walk through the door after a day away at work, Lego Stitch is enough to make anyone's heart melt.

Some might have preferred a plain version of Stitch without his Hawaiian outfit and ice cream, but I'm a fan of it. Besides honoring the film's setting and making him look cute as a button with that flower over his ear, it makes me think of sunny days at the beach - something I can appreciate at the moment, what with sweater weather bringing its chill.

Because it's not too big, it won't take ages to complete or be a significant challenge either unlike some of the best Lego sets. That makes it ideal no matter whether you're an adult looking for a display piece or a kid who just adores Stitch.

Want more savings on stuff you can share with family? Well, check out these Cyber Monday board game deals - or perhaps the latest Cyber Monday Pokemon card deals.

To be precise, you could 'pre-order' it for $149.99 at Best Buy instead of $199.99 earler, but it has since changed to "coming soon." I'm pretty sure that's a record low price, and I've certainly not been able to find it for less on my travels this Black Friday. Sure, the Lego Nightmare Before Christmas set is available at Lego's official store as we speak so the pre-order status is a bit weird. But because it was an exclusive at the former, I suspect the delay comes down to it being made available at other retailers.

Either way, I can't complain at a discount like this. It's certainly one of the better Black Friday Lego deals, providing it becomes available to buy again. Best Buy has the release date listed as December 1, so perhaps we'll see more stock pop up closer to that date.

Today's best Cyber Monday Lego deals

• Amazon: Disney sets from $16.79
• Best Buy: blind bags from $3.49
• Walmart: Marvel sets from $7

Should you buy Lego Nightmare Before Christmas?

If you love the Tim Burton movie, you're going to find a lot to appreciate here. And look, I appreciate that this is a very "water is wet" statement. This is basically a giant reference to the film, after all. But as with all the best Lego sets, there's an incredible attention to detail that makes it clear the reverence with which these adaptations are handled. As an example, there are loads of neat touches that simply don't need to be there (such as an entire space hidden under the town hall that's home to a skeleton trying to dig his way out with a spoon) but are included purely included to delight fans.

Much like Lego Rivendell (my all-time favorite set), it's also a diorama in three parts that captures multiple iconic scenes rather than just recreating one. These are all crammed with their own secrets, so the set is as much a delight to look at as it is to build. If you love mini figures, then this set's selection isn't going to disappoint either since you're getting Jack and Sally alongside Lock, Shock, Barrel and a "Sandy Claws for them to kidnap. If you count the cone-shaped Mayor and tiny Zero the dog, that's eight in total!

The 2,193 piece kit does come with an 18+ age recommendation, and that since it's a bit more involved with plenty of tiny parts. That said, this could be an wonderful Christmas Eve project if you've got tiny fans of the Tim Burton flick, and $50 makes for a nice excuse for a self gift.

Looking for more bargains? Swing by Black Friday Pokemon card deals and Black Friday D&D deals for tabletop savings. Alternatively, take a peek at Black Friday 3D printer deals for some excellent machine offers.