The Lego Game Boy model building set recreates Nintendo’s iconic 1989 handheld console with authentic detailing, functional controls, and interactive elements. This 1,205-piece set (Item #71540), officially released October 1, 2025, retails at USD 99.99 and is recommended for builders ages 18 and up.[1]
Faithful Exterior Design
The assembled model measures approximately 5.5 inches (14 cm) tall, 3.5 inches (9 cm) wide, and 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) deep, accurately replicating the original Game Boy’s proportions. Its light-gray casing, purple A and B buttons, black directional pad, Select and Start buttons, contrast dial, and volume slider faithfully match the original 1989 Game Boy layout.[2]
Functional Controls and Tactile Feedback
Each control mechanism was engineered to deliver authentic tactile feel:
- The directional pad incorporates a rubber liftarm beneath plates to simulate spring resistance
- A and B buttons use minifigure cap elements backed by elastic bands for realistic button travel
- Select and Start buttons repurpose tire elements to provide proper pushback
- The power switch slides with satisfying resistance
These features underwent over 30 prototype iterations during development to approximate Nintendo’s original tactile feedback experience.[3]
Interchangeable Screens and Game Cartridges
Three lenticular display panels slide into the screen area, showing Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins gameplay, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, and the classic Nintendo boot-up logo with animated effects. Brick-built Game Pak cartridges insert into the rear slot; the Zelda cartridge includes a decorative gold “save battery” tile as a nostalgic nod to the original cartridge’s SRAM backup feature, though all elements are purely decorative without electronics.[4]
Collaborative Development Process
Lego’s design team collaborated directly with Nintendo’s licensing, hardware heritage, and creative divisions in Kyoto, Japan. Original Game Boy hardware engineers from Nintendo’s R&D1 division provided consultation on dimensions, button mechanics, and authentic color matching. The year-long development cycle from concept to production included 10 to 20 major design revisions and prioritized using existing Lego elements to minimize custom mold requirements and keep costs accessible.[3]
User Experience and Assembly
Detailed step-by-step instructions guide builders through assembly in approximately 2 to 3 hours. The set’s intermediate complexity and compact form factor make it ideal for display on desks, shelves, or in gaming collections. No additional tools are required beyond the included pieces. Builders particularly praise the satisfying click of buttons and the nostalgic design accuracy.[2]
Future Lego and Nintendo Collaborations
Building on the success of the 2020 Lego NES set (71374) and the 2021 Lego Super Mario line expansion, this mid-range offering explores new price points for Nintendo retro gaming themes. While Lego and Nintendo have not announced specific future console recreations as of October 2025, both companies have expressed commitment to expanding their licensing partnership.[5]
