For families or friend groups that are very much into the holiday spirit, decorating your space for Christmas is probably a time-honored tradition. There’s the Christmas tree decorating, putting up the socks by the fireplace (well if you have one), and maybe putting up decorations on the rooftop and porch. If you’re also the type that loves putting together LEGO builds, then this set will bring together the best of both worlds.
The LEGO Christmas Table Decoration is a 433-piece set that can be used as a dining table centerpiece or as part of your holiday aesthetic this coming season. While of course you can use actual Christmas decorations to spruce up your space, fans of LEGO sets will have much more fun putting this together either alone or as a family or group activity. It can also be a great holiday gift for the LEGO or Christmas lover in your life in case you still have no idea what to get them.
The Christmas Table Decoration consists of LEGO bricks and parts that will create a red candle in the middle surrounded by red berries, golden stars, and green foliage. After you’ve finished building it, you can place it on the dining table, on a side table, on the shelves, or on your mantelpiece, signaling that Christmas celebrations are upon us. While some would prefer more “natural” decorations, this is still a fun addition to the holidays that brings a playful, nostalgic element to your seasonal decor.
What makes this set particularly appealing is its versatility. Unlike traditional candles or floral arrangements that can wilt or burn down, this LEGO decoration is a permanent addition to your holiday collection that you can bring out year after year. It’s also completely safe: no fire hazards, no water spills, and no maintenance required. Once built, it becomes a conversation starter at holiday gatherings, with guests often delighted by the creative approach to seasonal decorating.
Most LEGO sets nowadays are meant for adults because of the more complicated builds, but this one seems to be something that kids 12 and above would be able to do on their own or as a group activity. The building process itself can become part of your holiday traditions. Imagine spending a cozy December afternoon assembling this with hot cocoa and holiday music playing in the background. It’s a mindful, relaxing activity that gets everyone into the festive mood while creating something tangible to display.
The set measures over 7 in. (18 cm) high, 8 in. (21 cm) wide and 9 in. (24 cm) deep, making it a substantial centerpiece that won’t get lost among other decorations. The size is just right, not so large that it overwhelms your table, but impressive enough to make a statement. The color palette of red, green, and gold is quintessentially Christmas, coordinating beautifully with most traditional holiday color schemes.
There are also other holiday builds that you can add to it, like the Christmas Tree, Halloween Wreath, and Festive Gingerbread House. Collectors especially love building up their seasonal LEGO collection, creating entire vignettes that can be displayed throughout different holidays. This modularity means you can start with the Christmas Table Decoration and gradually expand your collection over the years, making each holiday season feel fresh and exciting.
For those shopping for gifts, this set hits a sweet spot price-wise and offers something different from the usual holiday presents. It’s perfect for the person who seemingly has everything, or for someone who’s just getting into LEGO as a hobby. The combination of functionality as a decoration and the enjoyment of the building experience makes it a gift that keeps on giving long after it’s been opened. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising someone special, the LEGO Christmas Table Decoration brings a unique blend of creativity, tradition, and holiday cheer to any home.
November 2025 marks a turning point for LEGO. The Danish brick giant has evolved from childhood toy manufacturer into something more nuanced: a creator of kinetic sculptures, display pieces that command adult spaces, and intricate tributes to pop culture that blur the line between building set and collectible art. This month’s releases span from mechanical aquariums to starships, from Hollywood race cars to space exploration milestones, each demonstrating how far brick-based design has traveled.
What unites these seven releases is their refusal to sit still on shelves. They demand interaction, closer inspection, and appreciation for the engineering challenges their designers solved. Whether through cranks that animate underwater scenes, modular sections that separate like the real starship, or intricate layering that creates dimensional depth, these sets prove LEGO understands its adult audience wants more than nostalgia. They want conversation pieces that justify their desk space.
1. LEGO Icons Tropical Aquarium (10366)
The Tropical Aquarium transforms 4,154 pieces into a living mechanical tableau that launched on November 13 for $479.99. This isn’t decor that fades into the background. Three distinct cranks and dials control independent motion systems, turning the aquarium into a kinetic sculpture where your interaction determines the scene’s energy. Turn one dial and the jellyfish bob through their vertical dance. Another crank sends the sea turtle gliding past coral formations. The third activates smaller fish as they navigate through swaying seaweed and bubble streams that appear frozen mid-rise.
LEGO solved a fundamental design challenge here: creating convincing spatial depth within a fundamentally shallow display case. The build employs layering techniques with translucent elements, representing water, varied-height coral structures, and the strategic placement of marine life to establish foreground, middle ground, and background planes. Four model fish become compositional tools rather than fixed elements. You’re not assembling a predetermined scene. You’re curating an underwater environment where placement decisions affect visual balance. The set includes seaworms, an oyster shell containing a pearl, sea snails, and air bubbles, serving as additional elements for creating your personal ecosystem.
What we like
The kinetic mechanism creates genuine movement that changes depending on your crank speed and direction
Compositional flexibility lets you rearrange elements rather than following rigid instructions
What we dislike
At $479.99, this represents a significant investment for a display piece rather than a traditional play set
The mechanical systems require regular interaction to justify the kinetic elements
2. LEGO Ideas Apollo 8 Earthrise (40837)
William Anders captured humanity’s first color photograph of Earth from space on December 24, 1968, using his Hasselblad 500 EL during the Apollo 8 lunar orbit. That image, titled Earthrise, showed our planet suspended above the moon’s desolate horizon and fundamentally altered how we see ourselves. Now, nearly sixty years later, LEGO Ideas has transformed that pivotal moment into an 859-piece buildable art piece that stands 48 centimeters tall and 32 centimeters wide.
This rendition captures three distinct visual elements that define the photograph: the infinite black void of space, Earth as a cloud-swirled blue marble, and the moon’s cratered, mottled surface in the foreground. LEGO’s designers used the brick medium to convey texture and color gradation across each element. The moon’s surface employs varied grey tones and deliberate gaps between pieces to suggest the shadowed irregularity of impact craters. Earth’s atmospheric layers transition from deep ocean blues to white cloud formations using careful brick selection. The black space background creates negative space that makes both celestial bodies pop forward visually.
What we like
The subject matter elevates this beyond standard space sets into historical tribute territory
At 859 pieces, the build offers enough complexity for an engaging construction experience
What we dislike
The relatively conservative piece count means some details require visual interpretation
Mounting hardware for the wall display isn’t included, requiring a separate purchase
The Galaxy-class flagship from Star Trek: The Next Generation arrives in brick form on November 28 as a 3,600-piece behemoth measuring two feet long. Priced at $399.99, this isn’t LEGO’s first Trek venture, but it represents the most screen-accurate version of arguably the most beloved Enterprise design. The set captures the distinctive saucer-and-engineering-hull silhouette that defined seven television seasons and multiple films, complete with functional saucer separation mechanics that mirror the starship’s emergency protocol capabilities.
LEGO included enough minifigures to staff the bridge properly: Captain Picard, Commander Riker, Lieutenant Commander Data, Lieutenant Worf, Counselor Troi, Chief Engineer La Forge, and Doctor Crusher. Each figure comes with printed details that capture their Season 1 uniforms and distinctive features. The build itself uses advanced construction techniques to achieve the Enterprise-D’s smooth, curved surfaces while maintaining structural integrity. The warp nacelles attach via articulated pylons. The deflector dish receives intricate detailing. Even the bridge dome atop the saucer section gets architectural attention. This targets adult collectors who want the ship commanding their desk space with the same authority Picard brought to the captain’s chair.
What we like
Functional saucer separation adds interactive play value beyond static display
Screen-accurate proportions and details satisfy longtime Trek fans who know every hull panel
What we dislike
The $399.99 price point places this firmly in premium collector territory
Some builders note that the saucer section’s large, flat surfaces require patience during repetitive sections
4. LEGO Speed Champions APXGP F1 Race Car (77076)
LEGO’s partnership with the upcoming F1 film starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski produces this sleek recreation of the fictional APXGP team’s race car. The model wears the movie’s distinctive black-and-gold livery, capturing the cinematic energy through carefully applied decals and printed elements. Two minifigures represent drivers Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce, complete with race suits, helmets with reflective visors, and printed sponsor logos that tie directly to the film’s aesthetic.
The build distinguishes itself from previous Speed Champions Formula 1 sets through refined proportions and wider Pirelli-style tires that better capture modern F1 car stance. Custom decals add visual depth across the bodywork. The set includes small accessories that reward closer inspection: a wrench and a remote control that nod toward the engineering side of racing. The wrench serves double duty as an actual building tool for applying stickers or separating tight bricks. These thoughtful inclusions demonstrate LEGO understands its audience wants both display accuracy and functional building aids.
What we like
The black-and-gold livery creates a striking visual contrast suitable for display
Film tie-in elements provide cultural relevance beyond generic racing sets
What we dislike
The Speed Champions scale limits interior detail compared to larger Technic F1 sets
Movie-specific branding may not appeal to builders wanting real team liveries
5. LEGO Ideas The Goonies (21350)
This $330 LEGO Ideas release transforms the 1985 adventure classic into a full-blown tribute to one of cinema’s most beloved treasure hunts. The set isn’t just a model you build and stick on a shelf. This captures those iconic moments that blend adventure with just the right amount of creepy: the Fratelli hideout functioning as a haunted house for criminals, the terrifying boulder trap, skeleton-filled caves, and One-Eyed Willy’s legendary pirate ship, the Inferno, complete with sails, treasure, and plenty of bones.
What really makes this set special are the minifigures. All twelve of them. You get the whole gang: Mikey, Mouth, Data, Chunk, Brand, Andy, and Stef, plus Sloth in his Superman shirt, Mama Fratelli, Francis, Jake, and even One-Eyed Willy’s skeleton. LEGO created brand new elements specifically for this set, like Sloth’s pirate hat and Mama Fratelli’s hair and beret combo, showing the level of detail they’re committed to. The skeleton pirate minifigure arrives perfectly timed for Halloween nostalgia, capturing both the film’s adventurous spirit and its spooky underground atmosphere.
What we like
Twelve minifigures provide the complete cast, including villains and One-Eyed Willy’s skeleton
Multiple iconic scenes from the film can be recreated with the Fratelli hideout and pirate ship
What we dislike
The $330 price point may feel steep for fans expecting a lower-tier Ideas set
Balancing multiple scenes in one set means each vignette receives less piece allocation
6. LEGO Ideas Pacific Rim Jaegers
Din0Bricks’ fan-made tribute to Guillermo del Toro’s Pacific Rim has earned LEGO Ideas Staff Pick status and rallied 661 supporters toward the 10,000 needed for official production consideration. The 2,218-piece concept recreates three iconic Jaegers from the 2013 film: Gipsy Danger with a retractable sword, Crimson Typhoon with rotating saw blades, and Cherno Alpha with its brutal industrial aesthetic. Support helicopters accompany each mech, capturing the logistical reality behind deploying humanity’s towering defenders against Kaiju threats.
What makes this concept remarkable is how Din0Bricks solved the challenge of capturing the Jaegers’ massive, imposing presence while maintaining structural stability and playability. Each mech features articulated joints at shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees, allowing authentic combat poses. The retractable sword mechanism on Gipsy Danger uses internal gearing. Crimson Typhoon’s three-armed configuration required custom engineering to balance properly. Cherno Alpha’s distinctive fists and nuclear reactor detailing push LEGO’s aesthetic toward industrial brutalism. This isn’t just a fan project. It’s a masterclass in translating screen designs into buildable, poseable figures that honor the source material’s scale and mechanical complexity.
What we like
Three distinct Jaegers provide variety and display options in a single set
Articulated joints enable dynamic combat poses that capture the film’s action sequences
What we dislike
As a LEGO Ideas concept, this isn’t guaranteed for production without reaching 10,000 supporters
The 2,218-piece count and three large models suggest a premium price point if approved
7. LEGO Ideas NASA James Webb Space Telescope
The LEGO James Webb Space Telescope replica tackles one of modern engineering’s most complex achievements through brick-based construction that mirrors the actual satellite’s intricate folding mechanisms. This build captures the telescope’s launch-critical ability to fold into a compact configuration before unfolding in space, requiring builders to understand both structural engineering and the precise mechanical sequences that made the real JWST mission possible. The design transforms complicated aerospace engineering into an accessible building experience that educates while it entertains.
Every major subsystem finds representation in this meticulous replica, from the eighteen iconic hexagonal mirrors that form the light-gathering array to the layered sun shield that protects sensitive instruments. The secondary hinged mirror, science instruments, propulsion systems, and communications arrays all function through LEGO’s mechanical systems, creating an interactive educational experience that illuminates the genuine complexity behind space exploration’s latest triumph. This isn’t a simplified approximation. It’s a functional demonstration of how the telescope actually operates in its orbit at the L2 Lagrange point.
What we like
Functional folding mechanism replicates the actual telescope’s deployment sequence
The complex folding mechanism requires careful handling to avoid stressing connection points
As a concept, availability depends on the LEGO Ideas approval process
Why November 2025 Matters for LEGO Design
These seven releases demonstrate LEGO’s strategic expansion into adult collector territory while maintaining the building experience that defines the brand. The kinetic mechanisms in the Tropical Aquarium, the historical gravitas of Earthrise, the pop culture cachet of the Enterprise and Goonies sets, the cinematic energy of the F1 car, and the community-driven passion behind the Pacific Rim Jaegers and James Webb Telescope all point toward a company that understands its audience has evolved. These aren’t toys. They’re display pieces that arrive in buildable form, offering the satisfaction of construction before claiming their space on shelves, desks, and walls.
What November’s lineup proves is that LEGO has moved beyond simple recreation into thoughtful interpretation. Each set solves specific design challenges: creating depth in shallow spaces, capturing kinetic energy through mechanical systems, translating beloved designs into brick form with screen accuracy, honoring cultural moments that shaped cinema, and making complex aerospace engineering comprehensible. The result is a collection of releases that justify their premium pricing through engineering sophistication, visual impact, and the kind of cultural resonance that makes people stop and ask about the objects commanding your workspace. That’s the difference between a toy and a design statement.
It’s nearly 60 years since we first got to actually see our blue marble from afar. Not in some geography book as a painting, not in the form of a VFX shot in a Hollywood movie. But as an actual color photo clicked by an astronaut from space. Taken by William Anders during the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, this iconic photo set the earth against its nearest neighbor, the moon.
It’s a perspective mankind had never seen before, a photo that looked at the earth from the moon rather than the other way around. It’s a perspective that’s still etched into a lot of memories… and now this LEGO set turns it into a brilliant visual cast in plastic bricks. Built by LEGO creator BuildingDreams, this rendition was designed to be hung on your wall as you admire its sheer beauty. Under 900 bricks come together to celebrate one of mankind’s true milestones… but let’s just also take a second to appreciate just how gorgeous this build looks, even on its own.
Designer: BuildingDreams
This is the year 1968, a year before the famed moon landing. The Apollo 8’s mission was to do a mere lunar orbit without a touchdown, and William Anders, a scientific crew member and photo enthusiast, took this photo on his Hasselblad 500 EL – the first ever color photo taken of the earth from space. The name Earthrise came from the fact that it looked like the Earth was rising from the surface of the moon, quite like the sun rises in Earth’s sky. The photos played a pivotal role in helping with the research that then put Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon in the following year.
This rendition stands at 48cm tall and 32 cm wide (1.5″ x 1″), and comprises 859 pieces. That might sound like a lot but it’s actually a fairly conservative amount, given that a lot of these bricks help convey the details of the artpiece. The black void of space, the cloud-filled blue marble we call home, and our fair friend, the moon, with its mottled, cratered surface.
“Earthrise is designed to be as close to the real photo as you can get in Lego, with its classic bright art print style and with a simple and striking frame and detailing that will look great on any wall. This build is perfect for anyone who loves space and history and wants to celebrate such a unique part of our history,” says Building Dreams.
Although not an official kit yet, Earthrise is currently gathering eyeballs on the LEGO Ideas forum, a website where people contribute their fan-made builds and vote for their favorites. If this build hits the 10k vote mark, it gets sent to LEGO’s internal team for an official review before being turned into a box set. If you want to see that happen, head down to the LEGO Ideas website and cast your vote for this MOC (My Own Creation)!
Trekkies, clear your coffee tables. LEGO is launching the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D, and this isn’t your childhood spaceship set. At 3,600 pieces and two feet long, this is the Galaxy-class flagship from Star Trek: The Next Generation rendered in meticulous brick form. It’s designed for adults who grew up watching Picard sip Earl Grey and want that same starship commanding their desk space.
Designer: LEGO
The set drops November 28, 2025 for $399.99, and LEGO isn’t holding back on the details. This is the definitive brick-built version of arguably the most beloved Enterprise design, complete with screen-accurate proportions, functional saucer separation, and enough minifigures to staff the bridge. Whether you’re a lifelong Trekkie or a design enthusiast who appreciates iconic sci-fi aesthetics, this set delivers serious display presence.
What makes this release special is how LEGO balanced accuracy with buildability. The Enterprise-D has always been a challenging design to capture because of its smooth, sweeping lines and distinctive saucer-meets-engineering-hull silhouette. LEGO’s designers nailed it, creating a model that reads instantly as Picard’s ship from any angle while maintaining the satisfying tactility that makes LEGO builds so rewarding.
Design Accuracy Meets Functional Features
The centerpiece feature is the detachable command saucer. Just like in the show, the saucer section separates from the secondary hull, letting you recreate one of the Enterprise-D’s most dramatic maneuvers. This isn’t just a cosmetic trick; the engineering required to make a sturdy separation mechanism while maintaining the ship’s graceful lines shows real design sophistication. The connection points are hidden beautifully, so the joined ship looks seamless.
LEGO captured the Enterprise-D’s signature warp nacelles with striking fidelity. The red and blue detailing on these engines is instantly recognizable to any TNG fan, and seeing them rendered in brick form with proper color gradients and proportions is genuinely impressive. The nacelle pylons sweep back at the correct angle, and the overall stance on the included display stand gives the ship that dynamic, forward-leaning energy that made the original VFX model so memorable.
Built for Interaction and Display
This isn’t a static model locked behind glass. The rear shuttlebay opens to reveal two Type-15 Shuttlepods tucked inside, ready for away missions. These tiny craft are surprisingly detailed for their scale, complete with proper hull markings and recognizable silhouettes. Being able to physically open the shuttlebay and extract these little vessels adds a layer of interaction that transforms the model from sculpture to storytelling tool.
The angled display stand deserves special mention. Rather than a boring flat base, LEGO designed a stand that tilts the Enterprise at a dramatic angle, as if banking into warp speed or executing a tactical maneuver. A schematic plaque with ship statistics sits at the base, adding that museum-quality presentation polish. This stand transforms the model into a legitimate piece of desk art rather than just a toy on a shelf.
For builders who want every construction detail at their fingertips, the LEGO Builder app provides 3D digital instructions alongside the printed manual. You can rotate, zoom, and view assembly steps from any angle on your phone or tablet, which is genuinely helpful for a build this complex and detailed.
The Crew You Need
Nine minifigures ship with the set, representing the iconic TNG bridge crew plus a few beloved supporting characters. You get Picard (with teacup, naturally), Riker (complete with trombone and stand for jazz night), Worf, Data (with his cat Spot), Dr. Crusher, Geordi, Troi, Guinan, and Wesley Crusher. Each figure comes with custom accessories that reference their character perfectly. Data gets Spot, the cat he famously cared for while learning about emotions. Picard gets his Earl Grey tea. Riker gets his trombone because of course he does.
The accessory selection goes deep: phasers, tricorders, PADDs, engineering cases, even a portable tractor beam generator. LEGO clearly consulted with people who know this show inside and out, choosing items that feel authentic to the TNG universe rather than generic sci-fi props. These aren’t just decorative additions; they’re storytelling tools that let you recreate specific episodes or imagine new adventures.
Collectability and Display Presence
At 24 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 11 inches tall (including stand), this Enterprise commands serious real estate. That scale is intentional. This is designed to be a showpiece, the kind of build that anchors a room and starts conversations. The detailing holds up to close inspection, which is exactly what a centerpiece model needs to do. From across the room it reads as a sleek, powerful starship. Up close, you appreciate the clever techniques LEGO’s designers used to achieve those curves and gradients within the constraints of rectangular bricks.
For serious collectors, LEGO is offering a bonus Type-15 Shuttlepod as a gift with purchase during the launch window, plus other limited-time bonuses like Classic Animation Scenes. The set also earns 2,600 LEGO Insiders Points, which is a nice bonus for people already invested in LEGO’s ecosystem. With only 10,000 sets produced initially (per LEGO’s typical Icons limited run strategy), this will likely appreciate in value for those who keep it sealed.
The U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D represents everything LEGO’s Icons line does best: taking beloved cultural touchstones and translating them into buildable, displayable art. This isn’t a toy, though it has playful elements. It’s not quite a model kit, though it requires serious building skill. It exists in that sweet spot where nostalgia, design appreciation, and hands-on creativity converge. For $399.99, you’re getting 3,600 pieces of carefully engineered brick design that lets you spend hours building, then years displaying. That’s a fair trade for the flagship of the Federation.
The only thing worse than ‘Floor is Lava’ is probably ‘Floor is LEGO Brick’. LEGO bricks are famously torturous to step on. The studs, the sharp corners, the unforgiving plastic, all of these combine into creating something that feels like modern day torture. Step on a lego brick with enough body-weight and that thing practically digs into your tissue, causing probably one of the most painful experiences according to the internet. However, what if there was a ‘right’ way of stepping on LEGO bricks?
No, I’m not talking about some mind-over-body nonsense where you overcome your ability to feel pain. LEGO builder eat.sleep.build.repeat. designed a foot reflexology mat using just LEGO bricks, tapping into ancient eastern healing techniques to create a stimulating mat that helps you boost blood flow to your legs and to even other parts of the body. Made from just 820 bricks, this piece, titled ‘How to Step on a LEGO Brick?’ is a rather fun and informative hat-tip to old culture, using modern-day plastic bricks. One might say it puts the LEG in LEGO!
Designer: eat.sleep.build.repeat.
“Foot reflexology is an ancient practice, extremely common in China, where people step on mats with pressure nodes that practitioners believe produce beneficial effects elsewhere in the body,” says eat.sleep.build.repeat. “Decades later, their popularity remains strong as people continue to embrace simple, natural methods for daily wellness.”
The 820-brick MOC comes with the foot mat itself, color coded to perfection with different zones that supposedly stimulate different parts of the body. Each kit also comes with a coded legend that lets you see which color is assigned to which body part. Not that we’re medical professionals (please don’t take this as medical advice), but standing on the mat while having pressure applied (thanks to the LEGO studs) on different parts of the foot is known to be able to cure diseases and boost recovery. Who knew standing on LEGO bricks could be this therapeutic?!
The MOC (My Own Creation) is currently gathering steam on the LEGO Ideas website, an online forum dedicated to enthusiasts who build and vote for their favorite LEGO creations. If this particular build sounds enticing to you (apart from the prospect of stepping on LEGO bricks of course), head down to the LEGO Ideas website and cast your vote for this build!
LEGO has been steadily expanding its Speed Champions lineup, catering to both car lovers and collectors alike. After the success of its Formula-1 Series set, the brand is now shifting gears with inspiration straight from Hollywood. The latest addition is the official LEGO Speed Champions APXGP Team Race Car, a detailed 268-piece set based on F1 The Movie, the highly anticipated racing film starring Brad Pitt as veteran driver Sonny Hayes.
Designed for both motorsport enthusiasts and movie fans, this new release captures the cinematic energy of the fictional APXGP team with remarkable authenticity. The model’s sleek black-and-gold livery mirrors the on-screen race car, accompanied by minifigures of Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce, who look impressively lifelike in their race suits and helmets. These tiny yet expressive details, like the reflective visors and printed sponsor logos, help the build feel genuinely tied to the film’s aesthetic.
At first glance, the car may remind fans of previous Speed Champions Formula-1 builds, but the APXGP racer distinguishes itself with refined proportions, wide Pirelli-style tires, and custom decals that add visual depth. The attention to realism extends even to the accessories; builders will find a wrench and remote control, subtle nods to the engineering side of racing. The wrench, in particular, doubles as a handy tool for applying stickers or separating tight bricks—an understated but thoughtful inclusion.
The completed model measures over 8 inches in length, 3 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in height, making it perfectly sized to display on a desk or shelf. Compared to previous Speed Champions F1 releases, this one feels more streamlined and minimalistic, emphasizing aerodynamics and elegance over bulk. LEGO recommends the set for builders aged 10 and up, though it’s clear that adult fans will be among its most eager buyers.
Perhaps the most welcome upgrade here is the addition of the driver minifigures. Earlier Formula-1 Speed Champions sets often skipped them, something fans always found puzzling, given how central drivers are to the sport’s drama. Including Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce not only enhances the storytelling potential but also connects this model to the F1 movie universe in a tangible way. Perhaps LEGO will release more movie- and motorsports-inspired sets with minifigures, as was evident from the affordable DeLorean set released last month.
Set to launch in January 2026 for $28, the LEGO Speed Champions APXGP Team Race Car feels like a fitting tribute to the fusion of film and motorsport. It’s sleek, affordable, and full of character, and it’s a must-have collectible whether you’re a Speed Champions devotee, an F1 purist, or just someone who can’t resist a bit of cinematic speed on the shelf.
The landscape of premium LEGO construction has evolved far beyond childhood nostalgia into sophisticated engineering challenges that demand patience, precision, and genuine building expertise. Today’s most complex sets push the boundaries of what brick-based construction can achieve, incorporating intricate mechanical systems, massive piece counts, and revolutionary design techniques that transform static displays into interactive experiences.
These builds represent months of dedication, combining traditional construction skills with modern engineering concepts. Each set on this list exceeds 2,000 pieces and requires an advanced understanding of structural integrity, gear systems, or complex assembly sequences. They’re designed for builders who view LEGO not as toys but as sophisticated construction systems capable of replicating real-world mechanical marvels and architectural achievements.
1. LEGO Icons Tropical Aquarium
The Icons Tropical Aquarium represents LEGO’s bold move into kinetic sculpture territory, transforming 4,154 pieces into a living mechanical ecosystem. Unlike traditional display sets that remain frozen in time, this aquarium breathes with movement through carefully engineered dial and crank systems that animate marine life. The November 13 release at $479.99 positions this as LEGO’s most ambitious attempt at merging engineering precision with artistic expression.
What sets this aquarium apart isn’t just its impressive piece count but its arrangement flexibility that transforms builders into underwater curators. Four model fish move through varied coral structures alongside animated seaworms, while an oyster shell reveals a hidden pearl through mechanical action. Every placement decision affects visual balance and movement patterns, requiring builders to think beyond simple assembly into spatial composition and kinetic choreography.
What we like
Revolutionary kinetic movement system brings static display to life.
Arrangement flexibility allows for personalized underwater compositions.
What we dislike
High price point may limit accessibility for casual builders.
Mechanical complexity requires ongoing maintenance for optimal movement.
2. LEGO Sun Earth Moon Orrery
Marian’s stunning 2,303-piece Sun Earth Moon Orrery elevates LEGO construction into the realm of precision scientific instrumentation. This kinetic marvel doesn’t simply replicate planetary movement but accounts for Earth’s axial tilt, tracks lunar phases, and demonstrates both solar and lunar eclipses with astronomical accuracy. The 70 Technic gears create a mechanical symphony that transforms abstract cosmic concepts into tangible, hands-on learning experiences.
The orrery’s ornate design philosophy mirrors Da Vinci’s mechanical aesthetics while delivering modern engineering precision. The 10.6-inch twelve-faced base celebrates the calendar year, expanding to 20.9 inches when accounting for the moving celestial bodies. Manual hand-crank operation offers meditative building rhythm, while optional RC motor integration provides automated cosmic ballet that runs continuously for educational display purposes.
What we like
Astronomically accurate planetary movements provide genuine educational value.
Dual control options (manual/motorized) offer versatile display possibilities.
What we dislike
The complex gear system requires precise calibration for smooth operation.
Large footprint demands significant display space for proper appreciation.
3. LEGO James Webb Space Telescope Replica
The LEGO James Webb Space Telescope replica tackles one of modern engineering’s most complex achievements through brick-based construction that mirrors the actual satellite’s intricate folding mechanisms. This build captures the telescope’s launch-critical ability to fold into a compact configuration before unfolding in space, requiring builders to understand both structural engineering and the precise mechanical sequences that made the real JWST mission possible.
Every major subsystem finds representation in this meticulous replica, from the eighteen iconic hexagonal mirrors that form the light-gathering array to the layered sun shield that protects sensitive instruments. The secondary hinged mirror, science instruments, propulsion systems, and communications arrays all function through LEGO’s mechanical systems, creating an interactive educational experience that illuminates the genuine complexity behind space exploration’s latest triumph.
What we like
An authentic folding mechanism provides hands-on understanding of complex engineering.
Comprehensive subsystem representation offers deep educational insight into space technology.
What we dislike
Extreme complexity may overwhelm builders without a technical background.
Delicate folding mechanisms require careful handling to prevent damage.
4. Life-Size LEGO Formula 1 Steering Wheel
Vince_GT’s life-size Formula 1 steering wheel replica demonstrates how LEGO construction can perfectly capture the absurd complexity of modern racing technology. Real F1 wheels feature 9-12 rotary dials and over 12 buttons controlling everything from brake bias to differential settings, all packed into a rectangular profile that allows drivers clear sight lines over the wheel’s top edge.
This LEGO interpretation nails those authentic proportions within the 260-300mm diameter range used by Mercedes and Red Bull teams. Transparent dark teal accent pieces on the outer grips provide visual distinction, while the central display panel features customizable designs centered around a prominent “N” logo. The rectangular profile challenges traditional wheel construction assumptions, requiring advanced building techniques to achieve proper ergonomics and visual balance.
What we like
Life-size proportions create an authentic racing simulation experience.
Customizable display panel allows for personalized racing team branding.
What we dislike
Complex button and dial integration may lack full functional capability.
Specialized racing context limits appeal to a broader audience.
5. LEGO Titanic
The LEGO Titanic stands as a monument to both historical tragedy and construction ambition, stretching 54 inches from bow to stern with 9,090 precisely engineered pieces ᅟᅟ. This 1:200 scale recreation required LEGO’s designers to solve unprecedented challenges in structural integrity and historical accuracy, creating the longest LEGO set ever produced while maintaining the authentic proportions that made the original ship both magnificent and ultimately vulnerable.
Beyond mere scale, this set demonstrates advanced construction techniques through its multi-section assembly approach that mirrors actual shipbuilding methods ᅟᅟ. The detailed interior spaces include the ship’s bridge, promenade deck, and swimming pool, while working propellers and mechanical details bring maritime engineering to life ᅟᅟ. The building experience itself becomes a 25-hour journey through maritime history, requiring builders to understand both the ship’s grandeur and the engineering compromises that led to its tragic fate.
What we like
Record-breaking length creates an impressive display piece with historical significance.
Multi-section construction teaches authentic shipbuilding assembly techniques.
What we dislike
Massive size requires dedicated display space and careful structural support.
High piece count and lengthy build time may overwhelm casual builders.
The Evolution of Complex LEGO Construction
These five sets represent the cutting edge of what LEGO construction can achieve when freed from traditional toy constraints. Each pushes different boundaries: kinetic movement, scientific accuracy, space technology replication, motorsport simulation, and historical recreation. They demand not just building skills but a genuine understanding of the real-world systems they represent. Their complexity reflects LEGO’s recognition that adult builders seek challenges engaging both hands and minds.
What makes these builds truly advanced isn’t just their piece counts or assembly time but their ability to teach genuine skills. The Aquarium’s kinetic systems introduce mechanical engineering concepts while the Orrery provides hands-on astronomy education. These sets offer immersive educational experiences that transform abstract concepts into tangible understanding, creating conversation-sparking displays that demonstrate remarkable sophistication within LEGO’s seemingly simple building system.
“Today we cancel the apocalypse.” With just five words, Idris Elba’s Stacker Pentecost became the rallying cry of a generation – the gruff, determined voice that turned Guillermo del Toro’s Pacific Rim from a spectacular mecha-vs-kaiju brawl into something more: a tribute to human resilience, teamwork, and the unyielding belief that we’re stronger together. His speech before the final assault on the Breach remains one of the most quoted moments in modern sci-fi cinema, right up there with the Jaegers themselves – those towering mechanical defenders that became instant icons the moment they lit up the screen in 2013.
Now, nearly a decade later, one passionate LEGO builder is bringing the Jaeger program home. Din0Bricks’ stunning fan-made tribute to the film’s most iconic mechs – Gipsy Danger, Crimson Typhoon, and Cherno Alpha – has earned a coveted Staff Pick on LEGO Ideas, and with 661 supporters already rallied to the cause, these titans of engineering might just march onto store shelves. Featuring 2,218 pieces of screen-accurate detail, from retractable swords to rotating saw blades and support helicopters, this isn’t just a fan project – it’s a love letter to del Toro’s iconic film as well as the power of LEGO creativity. The question is: are you ready to suit up (or brick up) and help make it a reality?
Designer: Din0bricks
At first we’ve got Gipsy Danger, a personal favorite because honestly, if you’re going to lead with anything, it’s the Mark-3 American Jaeger that punched a Category 4 kaiju with a cargo ship. At 807 pieces and standing 8.8 inches tall, this blue beast captures everything that made the hero mech memorable. The broad shoulders, that distinctive head design with the yellow visor, the nuclear reactor core prominently displayed on the chest – Din0Bricks nailed the proportions.
It comes with its iconic retractable sword (which becomes a chain whip of sorts when expanded), but you could ditch the sword for the aforementioned cargo ship, which does come included in this MOC (My Own Creation!). The articulation appears robust too, with visible ball joints at the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. This thing can actually pose, which matters more than most people realize when you’re displaying an 800-piece mecha on your shelf.
Next meet the Crimson Typhoon. The Chinese Jaeger’s triple-arm configuration was always going to be the toughest to pull off in LEGO form, and at 630 pieces, this is actually the smallest of the three builds. That makes sense when you consider the original design philosophy: Crimson was built for speed and agility, not brute force. The red and black color blocking works beautifully here, and those rotating saw blade hands are exactly the kind of detail that separates a good fan build from something worth producing. The regular pincer hands are included too, and you can merely swap out weapons, which I personally love.
What impresses me most is how Din0Bricks managed to engineer three functional arms while maintaining structural integrity. Anyone who’s built complex LEGO mechanics knows that adding a third articulated limb to a bipedal figure is asking for stability problems. The fact that this thing can stand at 7.6 inches tall without looking like it’s about to collapse tells me the internal skeleton is solid.
Then there’s Cherno Alpha, the true underdog in the series. The Russian Jaeger always had that brutalist, Cold War aesthetic that screamed “Soviet engineering will outlast your fancy technology,” and this 781-piece build captures that perfectly. Standing 10.5 inches tall, it’s the biggest of the three, which tracks given Cherno’s status as the oldest and most heavily armored Mark-1 still in active service. The olive green and grey color palette gives it that military hardware vibe, and the boxy, industrial frame looks like something that was built to take a beating and keep swinging.
While the Cherno Alpha doesn’t come with external weapons (this thing was a spring-loaded punching machine), it does have optional helicopters that attach to its shoulders, as a call-back to how these jaegers were deployed on the battlefield. Sure, a jaeger could merely walk to the scene of the crime, but it’s faster (and honestly safer for the city) to have these massive bots deployed via air. Each jaeger would be carried by at least two copters, and unleashed into the waters (or on land) to exact revenge on the kaijus.
The beauty of this project existing on LEGO Ideas is that it actually has a shot at becoming real. For those unfamiliar with the platform, LEGO Ideas is basically crowdfunding meets product development. Fans submit their original designs, other fans vote by supporting the project, and if a submission hits 10,000 supporters, LEGO’s review board considers it for official production. Din0Bricks currently sits at 661 supporters with 405 days remaining to hit that 10K threshold. Given that the film’s been criminally underserved in the collectibles market compared to other genre properties, this feels like the moment to actually make something happen. If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of the Jaeger program, head over to the LEGO Ideas website and throw your support behind this thing. Sometimes the apocalypse doesn’t cancel itself; sometimes you need 10,000 people and a lot of Danish plastic to get the job done.
If you’ve ever dreamed about finding pirate treasure in underground caves or sliding down secret passages to escape the bad guys, you’re about to lose your mind over what LEGO just dropped. And with Halloween just around the corner, the timing couldn’t be more perfect for The Goonies set (21363), a 2,912-piece tribute to skeletons, pirates, and underground adventures that practically screams spooky season.
Here’s the thing that gets me about this release. It’s not just a model you build and stick on a shelf. This is a full-blown tribute to one of the most beloved adventure movies ever made, with actual thought put into recreating those iconic moments that blend adventure with just the right amount of creepy. We’re talking about the Fratelli hideout (basically a haunted house for criminals), the terrifying boulder trap, skeleton-filled caves, and yes, One-Eyed Willy’s legendary pirate ship, the Inferno, complete with sails, treasure, and plenty of bones.
What really makes this set special are the minifigures. All twelve of them. You get the whole gang: Mikey, Mouth, Data, Chunk, Brand, Andy, and Stef, plus Sloth in his Superman shirt, Mama Fratelli, Francis, Jake, and even One-Eyed Willy’s skeleton. Speaking of which, how perfect is it to have an actual skeleton pirate minifigure just in time for Halloween? LEGO actually created brand new elements specifically for this set, like Sloth’s pirate hat and Mama Fratelli’s hair and beret combo, which shows you the level of detail they’re committed to.
The build itself is pure genius in how it captures the movie’s spooky underground energy. One side shows the Inferno in all its glory with full sails, looking exactly like the moment when the Goonies discover it in that eerie cavern. Flip it around, and you’ve got an interactive play area with all the booby traps and secret passages that could easily double as Halloween decorations. There’s the skeleton organ where if you hit the wrong note, your minifigure falls through the floor (talk about a Halloween party trick). There’s a trap door for Data to avoid, and even a slide to the octopus from a deleted scene that superfans will totally appreciate.
At $329.99, this is definitely an investment piece. But you’re getting nearly 3,000 pieces and enough spooky detail to keep you discovering new Easter eggs every time you look at it. Think truffle shuffle references, the treasure map that started it all, and little callbacks scattered throughout the build. The underground cave aesthetic with its dark corners and hidden dangers fits perfectly with Halloween vibes, making it an ideal conversation piece for your seasonal decor.
Now here’s where it gets even better. If you’re quick and grab this set between November 1st and 7th, you’ll also score a free gift with purchase: The Walshes’ Attic set (40773). This 179-piece bonus includes minifigures of Mikey’s parents, Irving and Irene Walsh, plus a brick-built recreation of that cluttered, slightly creepy attic where the whole adventure began. You know, the scene with the dusty suit of armor, random nautical stuff everywhere, cobwebs implied, and that fateful moment when the kids discovered the treasure map behind a painting? It’s the perfect companion piece that sets up the entire story and adds another layer of atmospheric Halloween fun to your display.
What I love most about this release is how it captures that perfect blend of adventure and spookiness that makes The Goonies such a timeless film. Based on a fan submission by Delusion Brick, it shows that LEGO is actually listening to what fans want. This is the 10th and final LEGO Ideas set of 2025, and honestly, what a way to close out the year, especially launching right at the beginning of November when Halloween decorations are still fresh in everyone’s minds.
The set launches November 1st for LEGO Insiders members, with general availability starting November 4th. And yeah, it’s going to look incredible displayed on your shelf, whether you keep it up year-round or bring it out as part of your Halloween rotation. Part of the charm is in all the interactive elements: sending Sloth sliding down the mast, activating the boulder trap, playing with the skeleton organ. These aren’t just static display pieces meant to gather dust.
For anyone who grew up in the 80s or simply loves adventure movies with heart and a hint of danger, this is more than a LEGO set. It’s a trip back to that feeling of infinite possibility, of exploring dark caves with nothing but a flashlight and your courage, of believing that treasure maps really do lead somewhere magical. Goonies never say die, and clearly, neither does our love for pirates, skeletons, and Halloween adventures.
It’s hard not to smile when you think about E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Whether it’s the heartwarming friendship between Elliot and his otherworldly guest or the unforgettable image of them soaring across the moonlit sky, the movie’s magic feels timeless. That same magic now finds itself meticulously captured in KoalaBrick’s 2,204-piece LEGO set proposal—a tribute to the iconic “across the moon” scene, combined with a diorama-like display of key elements from the film.
This build is as much about artistry as it is about nostalgia. The silhouette of Elliot and E.T. against a crescent moon forms the centerpiece, with the lunar glow carefully contrasting the dense, detailed forest below. As your eyes wander through the scene, smaller touches, like the flower pot and the communication device, bring a delightful sense of recognition. Even E.T.’s spaceship makes an appearance, cleverly scaled to keep the diorama cohesive. You can almost hear John Williams’ sweeping score as you imagine putting the final pieces together.
Designer: KoalaBrick
What makes this design stand out isn’t just the clever use of LEGO elements; it’s how it balances playability with display-worthy craftsmanship. The forest, for instance, is layered with texture and depth, making it look lush without overwhelming the centerpiece. Peer into the forest and you notice minifigures of Elliot and E.T. standing around the comms device, along with a scaled-down model of the UFO and even the iconic flower pot that E.T. carries around. Yet, when you step back, the build feels more like a cinematic moment frozen in time—a LEGO version of the iconic frame pulled straight from Spielberg’s classic.
The moon backdrop isn’t merely a flat surface but a structure with depth and detail, thanks to the use of LEGO art bricks that help mimic the cratered surface of the moon. Not that a cratered moon is great for scientific authenticity, but rather this helps recreate the very textured detail seen on the poster. These design decisions ensure the set appeals to a wide range of LEGO enthusiasts, from casual fans who admire its display potential to skilled builders eager to create similar artpieces.
Few movies elicit the kind of universal fondness that E.T. does, making this set an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you watched the film as a child, shared it with your kids, or simply appreciated its influence on pop culture, this build taps into those feelings effortlessly. It’s a love letter to a story that transcends generations. The film’s set around Halloween, but given that we’re a month late, I won’t judge you for re-watching it on Thanksgiving instead!
KoalaBrick’s creation is a heartfelt tribute that reimagines one of cinema’s most iconic scenes in brick form. Currently a submission on the LEGO Ideas website, KoalaBrick is accepting votes from the broader LEGO community to help turn this one-off artpiece into a retail box set that movie buffs and LEGO-nerds can buy and own. Vote for the E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial set on the LEGO Ideas website here.
