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✅ We've reviewed dozens of Lego kits
✅ Years of experience covering Lego
If you're trying to build a collection of the best Lego sets piece by piece, you're not exactly short on choice; there are so many options weighing down shelves at the moment that finding the right one for you can be like searching for a specific brick in a whole haystack of them. That's why the GamesRadar+ master builders and I have rounded up our favorites across a wealth of ranges.
All of these choices are based on first-hand experience, and we've personally reviewed each and every kit in this guide to the best Lego sets. As an example, I spent around a week constructing and critiquing our top choice – Rivendell – before putting it in pride of place on my shelf where it still stands today. (You can find out more in the 'how we test' section further down the page.) That's true for all of the models here, actually; I haven't recommended anything that we wouldn't want to buy or display ourselves.
To help you narrow things down even more, I've divided this page into sections based on the most popular ranges (like Star Wars and Harry Potter) alongside specs on complexity, time taken, and more. This should point you in the right direction if you're unsure how to choose the best Lego sets. Check back in occasionally, too; this guide will be updated each month with the hottest models as and when they land. There are a lot of upcoming Star Wars sets that caught my eye, for example, and I'm watching out for the teased Game Boy kit with great interest…
September 29, 2025: A new gaming and Fortnite section have been added to the page with unique recommendations for each one. The 'currently testing' and 'sets to look forward to' sections have been updated with brand-new entries as well.
August 27, 2025: A new Animal Crossing section has been added to this guide, with a full critique of the set and an expert opinion from the writer that wrote our original review.
Benjamin has been writing about Lego for GamesRadar+ since 2018, and his bylines stretch back over a decade. He's been an avid Lego fan since he was a child, and is currently building the Hogwarts Castle & Grounds kit.
Quick list
Although it looks good in pictures, this kit is jaw-dropping in person. Thanks to an abundance of hidden details and clever engineering choices, it's also a great conversation-starter that's worthy of being in pride of place.
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There's no shortage of good gaming-inspired Lego sets out there, so it speaks volumes for this Legend of Zelda model to beat them all. Thanks to a two-in-one design that makes either an Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild Deku Tree, it's peak fan-service.
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There isn't a more iconic ship in all the Star Wars galaxy, and this kit does the idea justice at a price most of us will actually be able to afford. It doesn't skimp on detail despite that smaller size, either.
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Many of the best Lego sets are conversation starters, but none more so than the Talking Sorting Hat. Besides looking fantastic, this thing will literally chat with you and sort all would-be wizards and witches into Hogwarts houses.
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It's surprisingly tough to find reasonably-priced Marvel sets that include every OG Avenger from the movies, so this one is already winning. However, it also recreates a downright iconic moment whilst being perfect for display or play.
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Premium kits like the Mighty Bowser are all good and well, but this Super Mario set will be a better fit for most people. Affordable yet deeply characterful, the Piranha Plant is the perfect desk or shelf buddy for any fan of the franchise.
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Combining one of the most beloved video games with the world's favorite construction toy feels like a no-brainer, as does a set that recreates every player's entry point to Battle Royale. This kit provides everything you'd want from a Fortnite crossover.
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New Horizons got many of us through the pandemic, and now you can recreate your island getaway in Lego form. Of all the Animal Crossing sets on offer, this is our favorite; it's the best mix of price, fan-service, and gosh-darn cuteness.
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If you're a Lego fan of a certain age, you may remember putting the original castle together fondly… and this revised version lives up to those memories. The team's passion for its legacy is clear.
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Best Lego set overall
There's something breathtaking about this kit. Photos don't do it justice; they can't capture how sprawling, intricate, and well-considered Lego Rivendell is. It uses every trick in the company's playbook, and there's a sense of fierce creativity powering it.
Seriously, I can't get over how good this thing looks. Lord Elrond's home bears a fearsome price tag and takes up a good chunk of real estate, but my god is it beautiful. It feels as if the team poured their collective heart and soul into the design.
✅ You enjoy hidden details: Lego Rivendell is crammed with Easter eggs, and every inch hides a fun nod to the movies.
✅ You want one of the prettiest Lego sets: Lego has used every trick and workaround for this kit. More importantly, it's gorgeous - those pastel roof tiles are beautiful, and the numerous trees add an eye-catching splash of autumnal color.
❌ You don't have much space: This kit is a sprawling build that will happily take up most of a table or shelf.
❌ You aren't keen on long builds: Even though I've seen some people finish it in around 15 hours, making the set took us something like 25. Be wary if you're low on time.
Features: With more than 6,000 pieces and a width of 29 inches, this is a monstrously big kit that will steal the limelight in any space it occupies. Alongside three distinct dioramas that can be shown off separately or combined for a massive scene, it also comes with 15 minifigures (the Fellowship of the Ring alongside Bilbo Baggins, Elrond, Arwen, elves, and a visiting dwarf).
Build: Although it's not for the faint of heart due to its many pieces, 50 bags, and 20-hour build time, Lego Rivendell is all the more satisfying as a result. It's not necessarily difficult, either. Thanks to concise instructions that are incredibly clear, it avoids any kind of confusion as you put the set together section by section (the project is split into three manageable chunks).
You'll be kept amused by numerous facts and the daddest of dad jokes dotted throughout these books, too. Indeed, I'm disappointed that we don't see more of this in other kits.
Design: Sure, Lego Rivendell is an investment in terms of time and money. But good lord, the outlay is worthwhile. Few other sets are as intricate as this, and it's riddled with secrets that range from tiny maps of Middle-earth to Bilbo's red book.
In fact, there are more than a few cubby-holes that serve as cute little dioramas; every time you look at it, there's something new to discover. It's like the ultimate doll's house, and my nerd heart is very happy every time I visit the last homely house in the west on its shelf.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | Thanks to fun asides in the instruction booklets and hidden details that should delight fans, this is a joy to make. | 5/5 |
Accessibility | It'll take you a while to build Rivendell, so even though it isn't 'complicated,' be prepared for an endurance race. It takes up loads of space, too. | 3/5 |
Instruction quality | These are easily the best Lego instruction booklets I've ever seen. | 5/5 |
Extra features | Rivendell is drowning in Easter eggs and hidden details that Lord of the Rings fans should adore. | 5/5 |
"If you ask me, Rivendell is one of the best Lego sets. As in, ever. It's a magnificent design that demonstrates everything these kits can be." Read more: Lego Rivendell (10316) review
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This enormous kit really is one of the most impressive and best Lego sets ever made thanks to its wealth of detail, expansive interior, and numerous minifigures from across the ages. The main downside is its astronomical price.
It's an older and more expensive kit, but this grand rendition of Hogwarts is still one of our favorite sets because of the breath-taking scale and accuracy. The inclusion of microfigures and teeny rooms is a bonus.
The Disney World castle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and it's recreated in perfect detail with this amazing kit. It really does the building justice and adds to it with an interior dedicated to different Disney characters.
Best gaming Lego set
You can't move for fear of knocking over a gaming-themed Lego kit these days, but few can boast the Deku Tree's level of detail or sheer presence. As a "2-in-1" build, it's winning on the value front too; you can construct it in a couple of different ways based on preference. Even though I'd say one of those is stronger than the other, it's the kind of fan-service that makes this such a good collectible.
No matter which option you choose, this Legend of Zelda model captures the magic of the franchise effortlessly. In fact, it might be the ultimate display piece for fans (short of a replica Master Sword, anyway) and is most definitely one of the best Lego sets overall.
✅ You want a showstopper: Thanks to striking, leafy boughs and so much to look at when you get up close, the Great Deku Tree is a true centerpiece.
✅ You enjoy sets with lots of hidden details: This is the kind of model with secret references and Easter eggs galore.
❌ You don't have a lot of display space: Due to the depth of this kit, it can be a struggle to show off.
❌ You aren't a fan of Breath of the Wild or Ocarina of Time: This model can be built as the Deku Tree from either game, so it might not hit the spot if you don't like those installments.
Features: This ode to the Legend of Zelda franchise can be built in two distinct ways – you're able to create the Breath of the Wild Deku Tree from Nintendo Switch, or the one seen in N64's Ocarina of Time. Sadly, it's not possible to have both; they use the same core structure, so you'll need to choose.
As luck would have it, though, Lego has thought to include some mini-builds from both games that can be displayed separately (Link's treehouse and the Master Sword shrine). You don't have to pick and choose between minifigures, either. Young Link and Adult Link from Ocarina are included alongside Princess Zelda and Link in their Breath of the Wild Champion outfits.
Build: Despite being a lengthy process (it took me around 20 hours to complete), the Great Deku Tree isn't particularly fiddly or complex. Whether it's installing a carpet of plantlife or enjoying the occasional aside from the instruction booklet, this is a relaxing experience.
Design: Like all the best Lego sets, this is the kind of model that takes your breath (of the wild) away when you see it. Both designs boast an impressive level of detail, littered as they are with a tiny ecosystem of flora and fauna. There's just enough plant-life here to make it look like a miniature forest, all without becoming unruly. The vibrant colors seen throughout the Breath of the Wild variant help it pop as well, with pinks and peach hues coming together for an attractive blend.
For me, this is the better version. Yes, the Ocarina of Time Deku Tree is more iconic and nails that mist-laden, slightly grungy vibe of the N64's Kokiri Woods. But the modern equivalent is so vibrant. It's home to numerous Koroks as well who have been scattered across the build, including the riddle-giving Walton who's tucked away at the very top. It's the kind of set full of hidden details, which should give Zelda fans like me a real kick.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | This is a surprisingly easygoing project, with fun asides in the instructions to keep your spirits up. | 5/5 |
Accessibility | The Deku Tree is going to take you a good while longer than most sets, so it's an endurance test. | 3/5 |
Instruction quality | I wish all Lego instruction books were as good as this, with game details dotted throughout. | 4/5 |
Extra features | No matter which version you build, there's so much to see and enjoy. | 5/5 |
"I'm lucky enough to have built a lot of Lego in my time, so it's pretty hard to bowl me over. The Great Deku Tree managed it, though. I suppose you could say it'll move fans to tears (of the kingdom)..."
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It's harder to find these days due to the product having been officially retired, but the effort is more than worthwhile. The Lego NES is one of the most ambitious and impressive gaming sets around due to being so interactive.
The latest console-themed Lego set is just as delightful as its NES predecessor, if not more so; we got to see it in-person at SDCC 2025, and while the movable buttons are neat, the star of the show was the lenticular screen.
There are plenty of great gaming-themed kits for youngsters, but few can match this Mario Kart set if you ask me. Alongside personality-filled figures and rolling cars to play with, you also get a course to construct around the living room. Perfect.
Best Lego sets: Star Wars
Of the many spaceships flying across a galaxy far, far away, none are more iconic than Han Solo's battered pile of junk. There have been plenty of Millennium Falcon Lego sets before now, but this version of the Corellian YT freighter is much more affordable and easier to display.
It still packs an impressive level of detail despite being smaller, though; there's no mistaking its distinctive silhouette, even at a distance.
✅ You want the most iconic Star Wars ship without breaking the bank: There are other Millennium Falcon sets out there, but this is the most reasonable in price. It doesn't compromise on quality, though.
✅ You don't have lots of display space: Because this is a smaller kit that won't need an entire table to itself, it'll fit beautifully into most setups.
❌ You want, or already have, the bigger ones: Even though this is a fantastic kit, the bigger versions obviously boast more detail and come with a host of minifigures to crew them. Want the best of the best? Go for those.
❌ You're looking for a playset: Any young padawans wanting a toy they can play with will be disappointed with this one – it doesn't come off the stand and is too fragile to be carried around.
Features: This is the smallest of Lego's Millennium Falcon kits at just 921 pieces, but I'd argue that it's the best for most people. For starters, it's not the mammoth undertaking the UCS Millennium Falcon is, nor will it break the bank like that one does. In addition, you won't need a small warehouse to display this thing. It's a reasonable size and won't dominate the space it's in.
Build: In contrast to the other Falcon kits, this one isn't going to take you long to construct. You can be showing off your work within a couple of hours, and the process is pretty laid back on the whole. That doesn't mean it isn't satisfying, though. You'll spend a lot of time snapping panels together to make the ship's curves, for example, and the weighty 'click' as you connect them is oddly satisfying.
Is it perfect? No. Certain portions are fiddly, and the instructions could be a lot clearer – it's not always obvious where you're putting new pieces. But these are niggles in the grand scheme of things. Plus, it gets a lot right; there aren't any stickers in sight, for starters.
Design: Even though this is the dinkiest of the four Lego Millennium Falcon sets available at the moment, it's still crammed with detail. As a case in point, there are some welcome but unnecessary Easter eggs which leave an impression precisely because they aren't needed. More specifically, you'll place studs that depict memorable scenes (such as A New Hope's holo-chess game) during the early stages of this build, but they're quickly covered up and never seen again. In much the same way, clever use of 'greebles' lend the kit that recognizably battered look without overcrowding its hull. Lego could have cut corners here, yet it didn't.
There are compromises, of course; the set's modest footprint makes that inevitable. There's a weird gap in the cockpit neck, for instance, and it's a shame the cockpit itself doesn't feature plastic windows. You can't display it off the stand, either. But on the whole, this Millennium Falcon achieves a lot in spite of any limitations. It looks fantastic at a distance or up close, and won't dominate your living space like the Ultimate Collector Series or Rise of Skywalker alternatives.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | There's something deeply satisfying about clicking the chassis into place and then covering it in greebles. | 4/5 |
Accessibility | It's not the hardest Lego set you'll build, nor is it the easiest. There are quite a lot of small and fiddly pieces to contend with, though. | 3.5/5 |
Instruction quality | The instructions have the thinnest of white lines around the pieces you have to add, so things could be a little clearer. | 3.5/5 |
Extra features | Like most of the best Lego sets, this kit has lots of hidden details inside (like stud versions of the New Hope crew around the holochess table) that won't ever be seen, so are purely there for the builder's satisfaction. | 4/5 |
"Unless you're willing to drop a lot of money and display space, this is comfortably the best Millennium Falcon kit and one of the best Lego Star Wars sets overall. It isn't perfect, but comes pretty damn close – she's got it where it counts." Read more: Lego Millennium Falcon (75375) review
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Wait, that's two mentions for the UCS Falcon in one guide? You betcha. If you have the credits to spare, you'll wind up with one of the most impressive models out there - something we chat about at great length in our Lego UCS Millennium Falcon review.
It may not look like much from the outside due to a tidal wave of brown Lego panels, but open them up for a magnificent display piece. We praised the many, hugely detailed rooms and minifigures in our Lego Jabba's Sail Barge review.
Although it's a fantastic display piece for adults thanks to its recreation of an iconic scene (as noted in our Lego Boarding the Tantive IV review), kids in particular will adore this playset due to the many interactive elements present here.
Best Lego sets: Harry Potter
Most of the best Lego sets are conversation starters, but few take that as literally as the Talking Sorting Hat. Push down on the disguised lever to hear it bellow your Hogwarts House at you, with audio taken straight from the movie.
When combined with a classy little stand with plaques for Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff, not to mention a minifigure of Harry and a teeny Sorting Hat, this kit is the perfect display piece.
✅ You want a display piece: If you'd rather something made for display instead of a playset, this is arguably the best Harry Potter kit.
✅ You want a conversation starter: It's impossible for this set not to impress your guests.
❌ You'd rather get Hogwarts: If you can only get one Harry Potter kit, and you'd feel glum if you didn't have Hogwarts castle itself, I'd avoid the Talking Sorting Hat.
❌ You want a playset: As previously mentioned, this is more of a display piece than a playset… even if it is fun to play with.
Features: The main selling point of this kit is right there in the name – it talks. More specifically, it barks out quotes taken directly from the Sorcerer's Stone movie (or Philosopher's Stone, if you're in the UK). It also yells which Hogwarts House you belong in.
While it can be displayed by itself, the Talking Sorting Hat comes with a stand from which to shout its decisions. This features a plaque for each house and a minifigure of Harry from his first year with a little Sorting Hat on his head.
Build: This is one of the more straightforward Lego kits I've cobbled together, and it'll only take you an hour or two to finish. Is it slightly tedious to slot in brown block after brown block? Sort of. But there's a thrill in seeing it all come together, and clever yet simple engineering underpins the whole thing.
Design: It's always amazing to see how a pile of plastic blocks can look so close to a set's inspiration, and it's no different here. This kit captures the movie version's wonky, battered, and slightly grumpy design perfectly. Even though a few stickers are used to represent patches and stitches, they're mercifully few in number and do a lot to elevate the overall build. The fact that the Talking Sorting Hat's mouth and eyebrows move when you press the top is icing on the cake.
The stand is a handsome thing that doesn't overshadow the rest of the set, either; it's a black and gold number with space for each Hogwarts House crest which, thankfully, are printed rather than stickered. When you throw in the Harry minifig (with the adorable little legs!) with his tiny Sorting Hat, this will certainly please fans.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | Because it isn't a massive nor overly complicated kit, you'll have a pretty pleasant time with this one. | 4/5 |
Accessibility | This is a straightforward build for the most part, but there are some tricky bits when you start working on the inner mechanisms. | 3.5/5 |
Instruction quality | There are clear red lines surrounding the pieces you have to add, so you won't feel lost. | 4/5 |
Extra features | You won't find hidden Easter eggs here, but the fact this kit can talk makes it a winner. | 5/5 |
"I'd always thought that the Hogwarts kit would be my go-to Harry Potter set, but this is just delightful. It sits in pride of place on my desk." Read more: Lego Talking Sorting Hat review
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In terms of ambition, I'm not sure any Harry Potter kit comes close to Gringotts. It looks impossible, as if it's about to collapse under its own weight, but the magicians at Lego somehow make it work. Check our Lego Gringotts Bank review for more.
The newer, smaller Hogwarts model is probably a better purchase for most people than its larger cousin, mostly due to the fact it fits on a shelf rather than needing a whole table for display. It's just as accurate and detailed, though.
Imaginative roleplay is a key component of any set for kids, and Potions Class is arguably best at providing that. It's carrying plenty of interactive little pieces children can use to make their brew, not to mention the likes of Snape and Hermione.
Best Lego sets: Marvel
There are plenty of Avengers-themed kits gracing shelves right now, but few assemble the original six like this. More importantly, it recreates one of the franchise's most iconic shots to display on your shelf or jazz up your kid's toybox.
That's because this kit is multitasking. Along with being an interactive set sporting plenty for children to play with (like blasters that fire studs or a bunker Hulk can bust), it's just as good at being a display piece. Transparent pieces hold the Avengers aloft in their iconic poses as they race through the Sokovian forest, giving it kinetic energy despite the minifigures being stock still.
✅ You want something to display, or for your kids: This set strikes the perfect balance of being a cool display piece whilst also being ideal for kids to play with.
✅ You're lacking display space: Although bigger and arguably better Marvel kits are out there, they take up a lot of real estate. This is much more manageable.
❌ You'd prefer the OG Avengers moment: I'm sure we'll eventually get a recreation of that shot in the original Avengers where the team forms a circle to face off against aliens.
❌ You want a showstopper: This is on the more modest side when it comes to Marvel sets, especially when you take the Sanctum Sanctorum, Avengers Tower, or Daily Bugle into account.
Features: This kit brings us back to a simpler time where the team only has to worry about trickster gods and megalomaniacal robots. Recreating Age of Ultron's opening battle against Hydra, it includes minifigures for all six OG Avengers alongside semi-transparent stands so you can pose them mid-leap.
It's not a static piece, though. The blasters held by those Hydra soldiers actually fire, and you can "Hulk smash" a plank that hurls the diorama's bunker away.
Build: Seeing as it'll only take you two hours or so to build, this is a pretty accessible kit. Although the experience could have been monotonous thanks to the many white and gunmetal pieces, the designers keep switching it up to maintain your interest. I just wish the instructions were clearer.
Beyond the fiddliness of putting your minifigs on their translucent stands, this is my one complaint.
Design: I've got to hand it to team Lego here – this set truly does provide something for everyone. On the one hand, kids will love playing with the core Avengers in their fight against evil thanks to interactive elements. On the other, adults are getting a handsome, dynamic display piece that's instantly recognizable.
It's cleverly constructed, too; minifigures are attached to the environment in smart enough ways that you barely notice the stands, and no model obscures another. There's absolutely no wasted space here.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | Putting the minifigures onto the translucent stands can be fiddly, but the build is a satisfying one on the whole. | 4/5 |
Accessibility | This kit manages to find a balance between complexity and simplicity, but it does provide a challenge here and there. | 4/5 |
Instruction quality | Unfortunately, most pieces aren't outlined or highlighted in the instruction booklet. This leaves you to play spot-the-difference. | 2/5 |
Extra features | While you aren't going to find hidden secrets, the Hydra soldiers' blasters fire studs and the bunker can be blown up using Hulk. | 3/5 |
"There might be bigger and more impressive sets out there, but this one is arguably the best Marvel kit for most people thanks to how well it balances price with value… and interactivity." Read more: Lego The Avengers Assemble: Age of Ultron (76291) review
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It's big and oh boy is it expensive, but you won't find a better premium Marvel kit. With multiple stories stuffed with references to the films alongside an army of minifigures drawn from across the Infinity Saga, this is a sight to behold.
Is there a more infamous glove in all of cinema? I doubt it. The Infinity Gauntlet that snapped away half of all life in the MCU is downright iconic, making it the perfect display piece for fans.
Because it includes many beloved heroes from the Infinity Saga, an airport to battle over, and a showstopper in the form of Ant Man's giant form, this ode to Civil War is a fantastic kid's playset - its begging for you to join in the fight.
Best Lego sets: Super Mario
I've got a lot of time for showstopper kits like The Mighty Bowser, but sometimes all you need is a plucky little Piranha Plant like this. Mario's iconic foe looks perfect in brick form, and it's oozing character despite being just nine inches high.
While it won't do much good as a toy for kids, grown up fans should look no further than this display piece. It says a lot that numerous members of the GamesRadar+ team snapped it up right away.
✅ You want an affordable Mario set for adults: The Piranha Plant's middle-of-the-road pricing is greatly appreciated after expensive kits. It's designed as a display piece too, not a playset.
✅ You want a small but eye-catching display piece: This will look fantastic on a shelf or desk.
❌ You're looking for a kids' playset: Your Piranha Plant is liable to break if played with, so it's not a good fit for children.
❌ You want a centerpiece: Got your eye on Mighty Bowser or the Mario and Kart set? This won't impress as much as those would.
Features: This kit is a bit like Lego The Child in that it's an interactive character designed to go on a desk or your shelf. The Piranha Plant's head, mouth, and leaves can be posed as well, providing a touch more ownership over how it looks.
Aside from that, there are also some hidden Mario coins that can be put into a secret compartment, piggy bank-style. It's a cool touch that wasn't necessary, but is appreciated nonetheless.
Build: As a small-scale project without too much in the way of technical parts, the Lego Piranha Plant isn't going to tax you. In other words, it's ideal for anyone coming back to – or getting into – Lego as an adult.
The instructions aren't too bad either thanks to yellow lines surrounding pieces, and I enjoy the timeline that shows off this memorable enemy through the ages.
Design: I adore this cheeky chappy. Even though the set isn't very big, it's full of charm and personality. Just tilting the head to one side can imbue it with character.
I'm impressed with how well a monster built largely of curves translates into Lego, too. This doesn't feel like a rough, best-effort approximation of a Piranha Plant; it's a faithful recreation even non-Lego fans will be happy to have on display at home.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | This is an easy-going process that won't take you all that long. | 5/5 |
Accessibility | If you're returning to Lego after years away or are new to the for-adults range, this is the perfect entry-point. | 5/5 |
Instruction quality | The instructions here are pretty easy to follow and feature a fun look back at the Piranha Plant's history. | 4/5 |
Extra features | Being able to pose your Piranha Plant, along with the secret compartment, adds to the overall experience. | 4/5 |
"The Lego Piranha Plant is a relatively simple build, but one that snaps with personality once it all comes together. Those 500 pieces all work particularly hard in both value and impact on the overall figure, with each stud contributing to the finished product. Surprisingly large for its price, and with its own hidden secrets, this is a must-have for Mario fans." Read more: Lego Piranha Plant review
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The King of the Koopas has his own, enormous Lego kit, and he's never looked better. This for-adults display piece shows off Bowser in all his glory with posable arms, eyes, mouth, and tail. In a neat touch, he can even shoot fire from his jaws.
If you've been a fan of the moustachioed plumber since the SNES era, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better Mario display piece. Besides capturing the blocky look of Super Mario World perfectly, it actually moves if you crank the handle.
Sometimes, simple is best. This beginner box is the only way to get the interactive Mario figure, and he's the lynchpin of the entire range. The kit also has a starter course for kids to make, along with a couple of foes such as Bowser Jr.
Best Lego sets: Fortnite
Of all the kits inspired by Epic's battle royale video game, I don't think it gets more iconic than this. The Battle Bus is something all players see when they start a match, so it's a familiar sight – and Lego has done it justice with this recreation.
Besides effortlessly straddling the line between display model and playset, this set crams in nine exclusive minifigures (including the game's most recognizable faces) you aren't going to find anywhere else. That makes it the best Fortnite build for longtime fans and young whippersnappers who are just discovering it.
✅ You want the most iconic set: It's tough to find something that's more 'Fortnite' than the Battle Bus, and the minifigures featured here include some of the game's most beloved character skins.
✅ You're buying for adults or kids: This model works equally well on a shelf or in a toybox.
❌ You're struggling for display space: Thanks to an 11in-tall hot air balloon, you'll need a lot of vertical space to show this kit off.
❌ You're on a budget: This is one of the more expensive Fortnite kits, and you'll find plenty of cheap alternatives if you want to save on cash.
Features: Even though the bus itself is worth the price of admission thanks to being a picture-perfect rendition of the vehicle as it appears in Fortnite, the main attraction here would have to be the minifigs. You're getting Raven, Drift, Meowscles, Battalion Brawler, Adventure Peely, Brite Bomber, Cuddle Team Leader, Cube Assassin, and Trespasser Elite. These specific designs can't be found anywhere else, and they also come armed with accessories ranging from Pickaxes to Slurp Juice.
Build: You won't be able to finish the Battle Bus in a single evening, but it's not an overly-complex process – ours was complete in around five hours. While some sections were pretty monotonous, it was an enjoyable experience on the whole. Aside from having to carefully position the set's 15 stickers, anyway.
Design: This kit strikes a good balance between its two audiences, and that's no mean feat. For starters, it's of display quality and will delight adult fans who want to commemorate the game on their shelf or desk. There aren't hidden Easter eggs, but you'll find plenty of references scattered across the model (such as the tiny Battle Bus diagram on the dashboard display) and the minifigs provide a who's who of the game's most notable skins.
Nevertheless, it still offers plenty for young gamers to play with. The wheels roll smoothly for those times when you need a crash-landing, the roof pops off so that you can see inside, doors open, and the nine minifigures can all be seated within the bus itself. The balloon even unclips for when you're done flying.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | This is a slightly longer build, but it isn't overly complicated – though it can be monotonous, and there are 15 stickers to add. | 3.5/5 |
Accessibility | Young builders or the easily distracted may find this a little boring at times, but the minifigures spice things up nicely. | 3.5/5 |
Instruction quality | Everything is laid out well here, and you're unlikely to get confused during the build process. | 4/5 |
Extra features | This model is a worthy take on the Battle Bus thanks to plenty of references to the source material and accessories players will instantly recognize. | 4/5 |
"The Fortnite Battle Bus is an instantly recognizable symbol of the battle royale, and the Lego version is recreated in great detail – all the way down to the industrial clamps securing the hot air balloon to the roof, which can easily be removed so the vehicle can be used for play. What's more, you get nine exclusive Fortnite minifigures with it that you won't find anywhere else, including icons such as Adventure Peely, Brite Bomber, Cuddle Team Leader, and Meowscles, making this a great choice for Fortnite fans!" Read more: Lego Battle Bus (77073) review
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Honorable mentions
So far as premium options go, one Fortnite kit looms over all others… quite literally. The Mecha Team Leader model stands several inches above everything else in the range, and it's an impressive sight standing watch on any fan's shelf.
Looking for a cool display piece? Like we mention in our Lego Supply Llama review, this fun – if fiddly – build is instantly recognizable and full of character. Well, not literally. It's actually full of loot, which is a fun feature.
Sometimes, simple is best. This beginner box is the only way to get the interactive Mario figure, and he's the lynchpin of the entire range. The kit also has a starter course for kids to make, along with a couple of foes such as Bowser Jr.
Best Lego sets: Animal Crossing
Of all the Animal Crossing sets weighing down shelves right now, this might be our favorite. It's a tough decision because they're uniformly cute as a button, but Isabella's House Visit pips the others to the post. This kit is everything you'd want from an adaptation; it's instantly recognizable, features a couple of beloved characters, and hides lots of references to the video game series.
Crucially, it's perfect for display or play. Regardless of whether you're buying it to go on your shelf or into your kid's toybox, you won't be disappointed.
✅ You want an iconic set without forking out too much: This kit recreates one of the memorable Villager houses with a couple of well-known characters in tow, so it's a good choice if you want something very 'Animal Crossing' without needing to drop a small fortune on something like Nook's Cranny or the Museum.
✅ You don't have a lot of display space: Because it's relatively small, Isabelle's House Visit is ideal for those without a lot of room to show sets off.
❌ You're expecting the full house: Like most Animal Crossing kits, this is a facade that can be turned around to reveal the building's rooms – it isn't the full thing.
❌ You'd prefer a bigger, more impressive set: It's affordable, but Isabelle's House Visit isn't as eye-catching as the other, bigger models.
Features: Although it plays host to Isabelle herself and Fauna the deer, this kit recreates the default Villager house players are given in each game (complete with some scenery like one of the famed fruit trees to go outside).
Much like other Animal Crossing models, Isabelle's House Visit acts like a dollhouse; it's a facade that can be flipped round to reveal the interior, which in this case features a bed, table, cooker, clock, and decorations. The latter includes tools and other items players should recognize.
Build: Seeing as it's a relatively small build, it shouldn't take you long to make Isabelle's House Visit. We were able to put it together in around an hour during our own testing, so it's a great option if you're short on time. It's not phenomenally complicated either, which makes it a great choice to build with your kids or for anyone that's new to Lego.
Design: There's a Spring-like cheeriness to this Lego set that's present in all Animal Crossing kits, and just looking at it is an instant mood boost. Whether it's the vivid colors, happy-go-lucky minifigures, or delightfully sweet array of tools and household items, Isabelle's House Visit is downright adorable.
It's home to many game references, too. While those tools are an obvious one, look closer and you'll find one of the design cards with an acorn on the front, a K.K. Slider poster, and more.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | If you want a chilled-out time, it doesn't get much better than this. The only downside is pieces that can't be fixed in place so sit loose. | 4/5 |
Accessibility | No matter whether you're returning to Lego after a long time away or are building with your children, this is a great entry point to the hobby. | 5/5 |
Instruction quality | The instructions are well done and should be straightforward enough for most people. | 4/5 |
Extra features | It may not be as feature-rich as other, more expensive kits, but there are plenty of cute game references strewn across the model. | 4/5 |
"Isabelle's House Visit is the perfect Animal Crossing Lego set. Not too expensive, not too huge (so is ideal for your shelf), and absolutely encapsulates my experience with New Horizons through those long lockdown months. The attention to detail is just spot on too." Read more: Lego Isabelle's House Visit (77049) review
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Honorable mentions
This may seem like a left-field choice, but hear me out. Besides adding a couple of extra houses to the mix with more villagers, you're also getting the Animal Crossing island throughout the seasons – great for customizing your village.
It might not look like much from the outside, but flip this kit around and you'll be very pleasantly surprised. The museum features a host of exhibits full of miniature wonders, along with bonus terrain you can add to your village.
Is there a more recognizable landmark in Animal Crossing than the Nook's Cranny store? This kit brings the shop to life with charm and plenty of secrets, meaning there's lots to discover here (which we praised in our Lego Nook's Cranny review).
Best Lego sets: Retro
If there's a Lego set that deserves a hero's welcome with herald's trumpets and pageantry, it's this one. The Lion Knights' Castle is a throwback to classic kits from decades past, and it combines that nostalgia with modern advancements for the ultimate project… no matter whether you're new to Lego or a veteran of countless brick-based builds.
There's no denying that it's expensive. However, you're getting a lot of Lego goodness for your money here (including more minifigures than most sets combined). It is, in a word, magnificent.
✅ You had the original: For those of you that owned the original Lego castles, it'll be nostalgia in brick form. This stronghold more than honors the sets that inspired it.
✅ You're a Middle-Ages aficionado: Love visiting castles? Enjoy binging Lord of the Rings, D&D, or Game of Thrones? This is catnip for medieval / fantasy fans.
❌ You still have one of the original Lego castles: If you've got an OG Lego castle at home, this will obviously feel a bit redundant. It makes quality-of-life changes and features new minifigures, of course, but is an ode to those sets of old nonetheless.
❌ You're short of space: Like many of the best Lego sets, this one is suitably enormous. It can be a bit of a struggle to display, so bear that in mind before you hit the checkout.
Features: Think of this set like a revival rather than a reboot. It shares a lot of DNA with the 1984 King's Castle, but builds upon it with modern advances. There's an army of 22 minifigures included within the box as well.
Build: This set is sizeable, but don't worry - it's not difficult to construct (aside from a drawbridge that may take a few goes to position correctly, anyway). Just because it's simple to put together doesn't mean it isn't clever, though. As per Rivendell, there are cunningly recycled elements used throughout the build.
Design: Crammed with hidden nooks and charming details (including a fun Easter egg for the 1978 'Yellow' Castle), this is the sort of project that's just as much fun to look at after it's finished as it is to build. The fact it can be displayed as a sprawling facade - allowing you to peek inside its many rooms and cubby-holes - or as a 'complete' building is another feather in its medieval cap.
In addition, there's a charming sense of narrative laced through every brick. Whether it's the varied army of minifigs or lived-in details for each room (including a medieval toilet, complete with a sponge on a stick…), there's very clearly a story being told here. Discovering it as you build or after the castle is finished will delight all but the most cold-hearted soul.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | The wealth of Easter eggs and clever design choices make construction a joy. | 5/5 |
Accessibility | This is a mighty task even for experienced builders. | 3.5/5 |
Instruction quality | Thanks to clear examples and plenty of history to make fans feel misty-eyed, the instructions for Lion Knights' Castle strike a chord. | 4.5/5 |
Extra features | There are more references, hidden details, and secret nooks than I've got time to discuss here. | 5/5 |
"The Lego Lion Knight’s Castle is one of my favorite Lego sets to date. It’s a glorious ode to the Lego castles of the '70s and '80s, and I can hardly think of a better way to celebrate Lego’s 90th anniversary. It’s a huge, gorgeous set, with a veritable army of classic-looking minifigs and a sublime interior, complete with a tiny cameo of the 1978 ‘Yellow’ Castle (375) that started it all. When I played with smaller Lego castles as a child, this impregnable Norman keep was the structure in my mind’s eye. But even putting nostalgia to one side, it should be near the top of every Lego fan’s wishlist." Read more: Lego Lion Knights' Castle review
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Honorable mentions
This throwback is inspired by the 1987 model of the same name, but improves on the formula in almost every respect. Whether it's a sleeker body, more detailed panels for the cockpit, or a beefed up buggy, the new Blacktron is flying high.
The kit may be relatively new, but it recreates the original version of Optimus Prime from the 1980s cartoon. Lego is the perfect medium to create the Transformer; its blockiness and stark edges work well with Autobots and Deceptions alike.
Polaroid cameras have really come back around in popularity, so it's fitting that a Lego version of the beloved device is on the cards too. Along with that instantly-recognizable design, this one features Lego photos. Delightful.
How to choose Lego
There are more kits these days than anyone could know what to do with, and shopping for the best Lego sets is overwhelming as a result. Not sure where to start, or put off by the countless options? Don't worry, the GamesRadar+ team can help. We've covered sets for years now and have been Lego fans since childhood, so know a thing or two about choosing the right one for you.
Here's what we'd recommend when hunting down Lego:
How we test Lego
- We've written dozens of Lego reviews
- Our team has reported on Lego for more than six years
- We visit toy conventions & events each year
It's our honor and privilege to test Lego and let you know which sets are worth buying, so we take the matter very seriously.
To start with, the GamesRadar+ experts (who have years of experience between them) won't ever recommend a product that they wouldn't be happy buying themselves with their own money. The cost of living is tightening purse-strings everywhere, after all, so knowing what is worth the cash comes in very handy.
We approach each listing on this page with distinct sections to help you understand what a kit is like quickly and easily. This includes:
- Introduction: Our writers and I give you the basics here alongside 'buy if/don't buy if' breakdowns. This provides a TL;DR cheatsheet on whether a kit is worth your time.
- Features: You'll find the set's elevator pitch here. What does it do differently, and are there any alternatives?
- Build: What is the kit actually like to construct? Details on the build experience are found in this section, usually with notes on how long the set took to put together based on our first-hand experience.
- Design: You'll find our thoughts about the look of the finished model here, with any highlights or drawbacks listed clearly.
Once that's done, our team uses a clear and easy-to-read ratings table. This breaks the set's individual elements down. Here's an example of what that looks like.
Criteria | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
Build experience | How fun is it to put the kit together? | ?/5 |
Accessibility | Is it easy to make? | ?/5 |
Instruction quality | Are the instructions good, bad, or somewhere in the middle? | ?/5 |
Extra features | What extras are hiding away in there? | ?/5 |
If you're curious to know more about our testing process here, be sure to check in on the full GamesRadar+ review policy. This provides details on how we write reviews for all kinds of products.
Currently testing
We're always making something here at GamesRadar+ HQ, whether it's for review or just for fun. So what are the team and I building this month? Here are our current projects:
Best Lego sets: FAQ
What is the best Lego set of all time?
If I had to crown just one kit, it would either be Lego Rivendell - which has the top spot on our list of the best Lego sets overall - or the Ultimate Collector Series Millennium Falcon. The former looks beautiful, but hits the spot because it combines very clever engineering with a smart repurposing of pieces to serve different functions (those chair arms are hot dogs from old kits, for instance). It's also crammed with hidden secrets and cute little scenes, wrapped up in fan service strewn throughout the instructions.
As for the Falcon, it's a similar story. This is a phenomenally well-made model and brings to life one of cinema's most iconic ships in painstaking detail.
Which Lego sets are good for adults?
For those of us that are eager to get into grown-up Lego but don't know where we should start, check out the company's dedicated page. It features a wealth of options that will challenge and entertain you in equal measure. The Technic and Ultimate Collector ranges are great examples.
I'd recommend starting small, though. Namely, it's worth checking out builds from the 'helmets' line like The Mandalorian or Luke Skywalker's Red Five helm. They're relatively simple yet awesome display pieces that aren't too overwhelming to construct. They don't take up loads of space either, making them easy to find a home for on your desk or shelf.
What is the best Lego set to start with?
If you're looking to kick off your Lego journey, there are a couple of kits we'd point you toward. First, though, we've got to work out what you need. Are you buying for a child? If so, it'll depend on how old they are - and their interests. Young tots would do well with either the Classic range (which is essentially a box of bricks for them to do whatever they want with) or the bigger, more toddler-friendly Duplo, while kids that love to dress up as Elsa and co. should look at the Disney range.
As for adults, it depends what they're into - but the Botanicals series is a great entry-point. These look incredible on display but aren't a headache to construct. As for something more themed, I'd gravitate toward kits that are relatively small but rated 18+ like the Millennium Falcon, Architecture pieces, Star Wars helmets, or Book Nooks. These are simple but impressive when finished, and the latter models are particularly good for quick, satisfying results.
Which Lego sets should I look forward to in 2025?
With new kits hitting shelves each and every month, there's always something new you can look forward to when it comes to the best Lego sets. Because browsing the release schedule is a bit like staring down an avalanche, here are the kits I'd suggest keeping an eye out for.
The best Lego sets to come out in 2025 so far
Hundreds of Lego sets arrive each and every year, but which of those can be considered the 'best?' The GamesRadar+ team and I spend a lot of time each month covering all the kits being released, and we always have opinions about them. These are our favorites so far, from January to now.
What is Lego's best-selling set?
Even though it's hard to say exactly what the best-selling Lego set is without breaking into the company's accounts, we wouldn't be surprised to find that the winner is from a major franchise. More specifically, Star Wars and Harry Potter kits dominate Lego's own bestsellers page. These fan-favorites create a lot of buzz... and understandably so.
However, it's not all about pop-culture. Recreations of world monuments are always popular too, and vehicles (including those in the Technic range) have an enormous following. In fact, cars and ships make up more than a dozen entries on the bestsellers list we mentioned above.
It's entirely possible that something simple like the Classics Bricks and Animals pack beats the competition, though. This tried-and-tested option offers a wealth of building materials for your own designs, so it's perfect no matter whether the customer is a child or master builder.
Want some present ideas? Be sure to drop in on these must-have gifts for gamers. As for more toys, don't miss the best Nerf blasters or the best water guns.
