A wave of nostalgia is hitting the tech world and Lego is riding the crest with a significant price drop on its Lego Super Mario Game Boy Building Set. Currently available for £40.99 – down from its original retail price of £54.99 – the set offers a compelling build for both dedicated Lego enthusiasts and those looking to recapture a piece of their gaming history.
The appeal is immediately obvious. The Lego Game Boy (model 72046) isn’t a miniature representation; it’s a nearly life-sized replica of the iconic handheld console that defined a generation. For those who grew up with the original Game Boy, the set provides a tangible connection to a simpler era of gaming. The build itself is designed with adults in mind, offering a more intricate and rewarding experience than many of Lego’s sets geared towards younger builders.
But the set isn’t just about recreating the hardware. Lego has cleverly incorporated features that mimic the original Game Boy experience. The inclusion of lenticular screens is a particularly noteworthy detail. These screens emulate the changing lighting conditions of the original LCD, adding a layer of authenticity that goes beyond a static display. This attention to detail demonstrates a clear understanding of what made the original Game Boy so special.
The set also includes two game cartridges: Zelda and Super Mario Land. While these aren’t functional game cartridges, they serve as a charming nod to the classic titles that helped establish the Game Boy’s dominance in the handheld market. They add to the overall display value and contribute to the set’s nostalgic appeal.
Lego has been steadily expanding its range of adult-focused building sets, and the Nintendo-themed offerings have proven particularly popular. The Lego Super Mario and Nintendo Entertainment System sets, while well-received, often came with a higher price tag. This price reduction on the Game Boy set makes it a more accessible entry point for those interested in exploring Lego’s more complex builds.
The instructions are designed to be user-friendly, even including a tutorial on how to interpret the instruction manual itself – a thoughtful touch for those less familiar with Lego’s building process. This accessibility is important, as it broadens the appeal of the set beyond experienced Lego builders.
The current price point, available through Amazon and Smyths, represents a 25% discount. This makes it a particularly attractive option for collectors, gamers, and Nintendo fans looking for a unique and engaging display piece. The inclusion of a display stand further enhances its presentation value, allowing builders to showcase their creation with pride.
While Lego’s adult builds can sometimes be considered a luxury purchase, the current price of £40.99 positions the Game Boy set as a more compelling value proposition. It’s a chance to revisit a cherished piece of gaming history, engage in a satisfying building experience, and display a unique piece of pop culture memorabilia.
The Lego Super Mario Game Boy Building Set isn’t just a toy; it’s a carefully crafted tribute to a pivotal moment in gaming history. The combination of intricate design, nostalgic details, and a now-reduced price makes it a standout offering in Lego’s growing portfolio of adult-focused sets.
