Recently, the LEGO Original PlayStation set was unveiled during Sony's State of Play. Comprising 1,911 pieces, the set is priced at $179.99 and is scheduled for release on October 1.
This product nearly replicates the original PS console at a 1:1 scale. The model features memory card slots, an openable disc tray, and includes a plug-in original PS controller without analog sticks. The console body has a pull-out hidden compartment containing miniature dioramas of two classic PS games: Gran Turismo and Ape Escape.
Steffi Steffen, Senior Director at Sony Interactive Entertainment, stated: "To bring this set to life, we worked closely with LEGO designers to create a building experience rooted in PlayStation's origins. As players build, they'll discover hidden details from PlayStation history, along with elements from two iconic launch titles for the original PS: Ape Escape and Gran Turismo."
Reportedly, each scene model features customizable designs. Gran Turismo comes with a miniature racetrack and scaled-down cars, while Ape Escape recreates a nostalgic island where the lights on the monkey helmets can be switched between blue and red. The set also includes functional elements like the console's power and eject buttons, and the controller can be inserted into the console. The two game scene models can be detached for separate display.
This isn't LEGO's first foray into retro gaming console sets; previous releases include the Atari 2600, Sega Genesis, and Nintendo NES. Mattel is also developing an original Xbox-themed building set, indicating that retro gaming hardware bricks are becoming a new collectible trend.