New Lego Donkey Kong Set Is A Throwback To Before Mario Had A Name
Lego has announced the official Donkey Kong Arcade set, a nostalgic tribute to the groundbreaking 1981 arcade game that originally featured Mario under the name Jumpman. Featuring 1,371 pieces and priced at $200, the interactive set launches on August 1.
The set recreates the iconic first stage of the original arcade game, complete with detailed scaffolding, ladders, and hammer elements. A standout feature includes a mechanical barrel-circulation system that continuously loops 21 barrels around the structure—allowing builders to physically interact with the model by releasing barrels and maneuvering the Jumpman figure to jump over them.
Pre-orders placed through The Lego Store include a special bonus: a $5 Animal Crossing set featuring Tom Nook, adding extra value for early adopters.
The product announcement was notably revealed through a promotional trailer starring Steve Wiebe, the legendary competitive gamer featured in the documentary “King of Kong,” reinforcing the nostalgic connection to classic arcade culture.
This release represents Lego’s continued effort to tap into gaming nostalgia and retro culture, celebrating a cornerstone of video game history. The Donkey Kong Arcade set serves as both a collectible tribute to one of gaming’s most influential titles and a functional building experience, bridging toy craftsmanship with interactive play.