Lego Partners with Nintendo on Functional Donkey Kong Arcade Set as Gaming Activations Expand
Developed over time first seen 2 months ago
Lego has unveiled a new Donkey Kong arcade machine buildable set featuring a motorised barrel-throwing mechanism designed by Carl Merriam, who has previously created Game Boy and Piranha Plant sets. The project benefited from direct collaboration with Nintendo, including input from legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto, with the company requesting specific modifications to the mechanism during development to ensure it accurately captured the classic arcade experience.
This release is part of Lego's broader expansion into gaming entertainment, most visibly demonstrated through its enlarged presence at San Diego Comic-Con. The company is moving beyond traditional display booths to create immersive, interactive installations for franchises including Star Wars, Pokémon, and Star Trek. Utilising its "Smart Play" technology that combines physical brick construction with responsive digital elements, Lego is positioning these activations as hands-on gaming experiences designed to engage attendees rather than simply showcase products.
- Lego launches motorised Donkey Kong arcade set designed with Nintendo and Shigeru Miyamoto's direct involvement
- Nintendo requested specific design changes to ensure authentic arcade barrel-throwing mechanism
- Lego expands Comic-Con presence with interactive Smart Play installations across gaming franchises
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Lego and Nintendo have teamed up before, notably on a Mario-themed range, but this new project is a buildable arcade cabinet based on the original Donkey Kong game. It includes a working mechanism that mimics the barrel-throwing action from the arcade classic, and was developed with direct input from Nintendo's side, including its veteran designer Shigeru Miyamoto, who helped shape how the model captured the feel of the original game.
The set is part of a wider push by Lego into gaming, moving beyond making toys based on games towards creating interactive experiences tied to well-known franchises. This has been most visible at large public events such as San Diego Comic-Con, where Lego has built elaborate, hands-on installations rather than simple product displays.
This matters because it reflects how toy and games companies are increasingly blending physical products with interactive or digital elements to engage fans directly, rather than relying solely on traditional retail displays or licensing deals.
Coverage
- The Verge — Nintendo signs off on Lego’s Donkey Kong barrel-throwing mechanism
- The Hollywood Reporter — Lego at Comic-Con: Star Wars and Pokémon Activations, Star Trek and Donkey Kong Sets
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