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.