LEGO Pokémon Sets Spark Fan Debate Over Design

The newly-revealed LEGO Pokémon range is prompting plenty of debate among fans. While there is praise for the versions of Eevee and Charizard, there is also a suggestion that its toy rival Mega Bloks did Pikachu better.

The flagship set, Pikachu and Poké Ball, costs $199.99 and features 2050 pieces. However, online discussion has been mixed. Critics point to Pikachu's angular face and a Poké Ball that looks more rectangular than spherical. Many fans have compared this design to previous Mega Bloks models, stating the rival toy captured the Pokémon's shape better.

In contrast, the $59.99 Eevee set is receiving significant praise for its accuracy. The largest set, featuring Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise, is well-received despite its $649.99 price tag. Pre-orders are currently available ahead of the March 1 launch.

The centerpiece of the new LEGO Pokémon collection, the Pikachu and Poké Ball set, has drawn mixed reactions from the community. The set, which contains 2050 pieces and retails for $199.99, is available for pre-order ahead of its March 1 release date. Early access for VIP members is scheduled for February 27.

Primary criticism focuses on the build's aesthetic accuracy. Fans have noted that Pikachu's face appears too angular and "goofy," while the accompanying buildable Poké Ball has been described as looking closer to a rectangle than a sphere.

Many online commentators have drawn direct comparisons to previous construction toys from rival company Mega Bloks. The consensus among many fans is that the Mega Bloks "Motion Pikachu" design, which consisted of 1095 pieces, managed to capture the Pokémon's iconic shape more effectively than the new LEGO version.

One fan commented on the design: "It's cool but I feel like I expected something a little better looking. Not sure what it is but the face is kind of goofy/uncanny. I do like it coming out of the Pokéball and overall it's decent, but there's something off and I can't put my finger on it."

While the Pikachu set has struggled to win over some fans, feedback on the range's other sets is far more positive. The 587-piece Eevee set, priced at $59.99, is receiving considerable praise for its design stability and accuracy.

Fans have described the Evolution Pokémon build as "cute" and "perfect." Comments suggest this model is much more stable and accurate than previous attempts by competitors. One user noted, "Much smaller, but presumably a lot more stable, than the Mega Construx equivalent."

The largest set in the initial wave, featuring Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise, has also been well received. This massive build contains 6838 pieces and carries a $649.99 price tag.

Despite the high cost, fans have noted the visual quality of the starter trio is superior to the flagship Pikachu set. "This and the Pikachu set don't feel like they're coming out of the same company," one comment read. "How are these more compact models so much more natural looking than the larger lone Pikachu?"

However, the price point has caused some hesitation. One fan noted the set is $150 more expensive than the Rivendell LEGO set, prompting concerns about the cost of collecting the full range.

Customers who purchase the large Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise set will receive a bonus item. The set includes a free Gift With Purchase set: the Kanto Region Badge Collection. This replica of Ash Ketchum's badge collection has generated positive comments, though fans have expressed disappointment that it is not available for separate purchase.

Additionally, LEGO Insiders members can claim a Mini Pokémon Center reward. This item requires 2500 membership points and has been praised for its retro aesthetic, with one user noting it has an "old 70s LEGO feel to it."

It is worth noting that there is currently no mention of Smart Play elements, including the Smart Brick, in these specific sets. LEGO recently announced these features would be a major part of the company's future, but they do not appear to be included in this initial Pokémon wave.