The LEGO-Nintendo partnership, formalized several years ago, has yielded some of LEGO's most creative and accessible sets. Initially, LEGO targeted children with interactive Super Mario playsets and adults with nostalgic replica sets. However, the line has blurred, with newer sets for kids showcasing increased complexity and adult sets adopting a more whimsical aesthetic. This cross-generational appeal reflects Nintendo's family-friendly branding.

LEGO Nintendo's sub-themes have expanded beyond Super Mario to include Sonic the Hedgehog, Animal Crossing, and now, Zelda. Here are some standout 2025 sets:

Adventures with Interactive LEGO Mario (#71439): This starter set, featuring an LED Mario figure, Yoshi, and Bowser Jr., is essential for other expansion sets. It includes a starting pipe, flagpole, and interactive elements. ($49.99 at Target) 218 pieces. Ages 6+.

Mario Kart – Standard Kart (#72032): Compatible with the interactive Mario figure, this set includes a kart, glider, Toad, and shell-launching mechanisms. ($19.99 at Amazon) 174 pieces. Ages 7+.

The Bowser Express Train (#71437): A large, whimsical set featuring Bowser's train, six villain minifigures, and plenty of detail. ($119.99 at Amazon) 1392 pieces. Ages 9+.

LEGO Piranha Plant (#71426): A charming and well-priced build of a Piranha Plant in a pipe. ($47.95 at Amazon) 540 pieces. Ages 18+.

Sonic the Hedgehog – Green Hill Zone (#21331): A delightful diorama of Green Hill Zone 1, perfect for adult beginner builders. ($79.99 at Amazon) 1125 pieces. Ages 18+.

Nook's Cranny & Rosie's House (#77050): One of the larger Animal Crossing sets, featuring Tom Nook's shop and Rosie's cottage. ($59.95 at Amazon) 535 pieces. Ages 7+.

Fly With Dodo Airlines (#77051): This set includes a seaplane, dock, and Wilbur and Tangy minifigures. ($37.99 at Amazon) 292 pieces. Ages 7+.

Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi (#71438): A nostalgic set with moving elements, featuring Mario and Yoshi. ($129.99 at Amazon) 1215 pieces. Ages 18+.

Great Deku Tree (#77092): A 2-in-1 build allowing for either Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild styles. Includes Link, Zelda, and iconic items. ($299.99 at LEGO Store) 2500 pieces. Ages 18+.

The Mighty Bowser (#71411): A massive, impressive Bowser build with a fire-breathing mechanism. ($269.99 at Amazon) 2807 pieces. Ages 18+.

As of January 2025, there are 34 LEGO Super Mario, 18 LEGO Sonic, 10 LEGO Animal Crossing, and 1 LEGO Zelda set. The future of LEGO Nintendo suggests a continued focus on high-quality builds appealing to both children and adults, prioritizing the building experience itself.