Lego’s Donkey Kong arcade machine lets Mario jump endless barrels — Miyamoto is reportedly happy
What's happening
Lego has released a buildable Donkey Kong arcade machine set designed by Carl Merriam that features a playable game where Mario can jump over endless barrels. The set costs $200 and recreates the classic 1981 arcade experience with functional gameplay mechanics.
Who's involved
Carl Merriam is a renowned Lego designer known for creating popular nostalgia-focused sets like the Nintendo Game Boy and Piranha Plant. Lego partnered with Nintendo to produce this set, and Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo's legendary game designer and creator of Mario and Donkey Kong, reportedly approved of the design.
Why it matters
This release demonstrates Lego's continued strategy of capitalizing on retro gaming nostalgia and Nintendo's intellectual property to drive sales among adult collectors and gaming enthusiasts. It positions Lego as a bridge between physical building toys and interactive entertainment, potentially opening new product categories that blend construction with playable mechanics.
More context
Lego has increasingly focused on licensed sets targeting adult builders, particularly around gaming and entertainment franchises. Merriam's previous Nintendo collaborations, including sets inspired by Game Boy and iconic Mario enemies, have been successful retail products. The Donkey Kong arcade machine represents an escalation in complexity, adding functional gameplay to traditional Lego building. This aligns with Nintendo's broader strategy of monetizing its classic game catalog through merchandise and collaborative products.