The LEGO Mini Disney Palace of Agrabah (40613) promises a pocket-sized adventure to the heart of Disney's Aladdin. This 261-piece set offers a quick and colorful build of the iconic palace, complete with its signature blue and gold color scheme.

For a set with a recommended retail price of £40, however, I was disappointed not to find a QR code on the instruction booklet for the usual 20 free LEGO VIP points. It's a small detail, but considering even smaller sets often include them, it felt like a missed opportunity.

The build itself is a breeze, perfect for younger LEGO enthusiasts or those looking for a quick project. However, as with most micro-scale sets, the level of detail is fairly limited. The overall shape of the palace is captured well, but you won't find intricate architectural details or interior features.

One positive aspect is the complete absence of stickers. The design relies solely on printed bricks, which eliminates the frustration of misaligned or crooked stickers and ensures a clean, finished look.

Overall, the LEGO Mini Disney Palace of Agrabah is a cute and compact set that might appeal to casual Disney fans or collectors of mini builds. However, the lack of detail and the missing VIP points make it feel a bit overpriced at the full RRP.

Here's a quick breakdown:

•  Set Name: LEGO Mini Disney Palace of Agrabah (40613)
• Piece Count: 506
• Price: £40 RRP (Currently 30% off on lego.com)
• Pros: Quick build, No stickers
• Cons: Lacks detail, Missing VIP points code

If you're a die-hard Disney fan or a completionist for mini Disney sets, this might still be a worthwhile addition to your collection. However, for those looking for a more complex and detailed build, you might want to consider other LEGO offerings.

With the set currently on sale at 30% off on the LEGO website and due to retire soon, it could be a good time to snag it if you're interested.

Bob Rating: 3/10

I recently had the pleasure of building LEGO’s Walt Disney Tribute Camera (43230), and it was a delightful experience. The set is a beautifully designed homage to the legendary animator, featuring a realistic camera model with intricate details.

The build itself was enjoyable and straightforward, although my wife did attempt to claim the Bambi and Dumbo minifigures for her own collection!

The instruction booklet featured a LEGO Walt Disney walking along the bottom of the page to show your progress. It's a fun and interactive way to follow the build.

As I delved into the construction, I discovered a few hidden Easter eggs. One particularly clever detail was the inclusion of a small, hidden Mickey on the camera's lens. There were also other subtle references to Disney films and characters scattered throughout the build. For example, the camera's tripod legs are shaped like Mickey Mouse ears, and the camera's viewfinder is a nod to the classic Disney logo.

The finished camera looks fantastic and is a great display piece. The minifigure of Walt Disney is a must-have for any Disney fan, and the included pen is a realistic touch. If you didn't know it was a pen, you might be surprised to think LEGO had ventured into more adult-themed sets, similar to what you find in Sembo blocks.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this set was the attention to detail. The camera's controls, the leather strap, and even the stitching on the camera case were all meticulously crafted. It's clear that LEGO put a lot of thought and effort into creating this tribute to Walt Disney.

Overall, the LEGO Walt Disney Tribute Camera (43230) is a wonderful set that celebrates the legacy of Walt Disney. It's a fun and rewarding build with plenty of details to appreciate. Whether you're a LEGO enthusiast or a Disney fan, this set is definitely worth considering.

Bob Rating: 8/10

I recently had the pleasure of building LEGO's Great Pyramid of Giza (21058) alongside my wife. As a fan of both LEGO and ancient history, I had high expectations for this set. Overall, it was a satisfying build, but there were a few aspects that left me feeling a bit shortchanged.

The set boasts 1,476 pieces and offers a surprisingly detailed recreation of the iconic pyramid. The build itself is enjoyable, with clever techniques used to achieve the pyramid's distinctive shape. I particularly appreciated the hidden interior, which reveals a glimpse into the construction process with its scaffolding and ramps.

One of the standout features is the option to display the nameplate in either English or hieroglyphics. This is a thoughtful touch that adds a layer of authenticity and allows for a more personalized display.

However, there's a significant caveat: you only get half a pyramid. While the set includes a detailed base with landscaping, the pyramid itself is cut in half. This might seem odd at first, but it actually allows for a more compact display and reveals the interior construction.

Although the build was enjoyable, it was also quite repetitive, as you might expect from a pyramid. This can be a bit tedious, especially when building together.

Despite the clever design choices, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being shortchanged. A complete pyramid would have been the ultimate representation of this ancient wonder. That said, the half-pyramid still looks impressive and is a great conversation starter.

In conclusion, LEGO's Great Pyramid of Giza is a solid set that offers a satisfying build experience and a detailed model. However, the decision to include only half the pyramid might leave some collectors feeling a bit cheated. If you're a fan of both LEGO and ancient history, this set is definitely worth considering, but be prepared to accept its unique design choice.

Bob Rating: 7/10

Apologies for the extended hiatus, dear LEGO enthusiasts! I've been sailing the Mediterranean on an MSC cruise, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquillity of the open sea. While the experience was truly rejuvenating, I couldn’t shake the feeling of missing out on the latest LEGO news and releases.

Unfortunately, my hopes of discovering exclusive LEGO sets on board were dashed. The ship’s limited merchandise selection was a far cry from the vibrant world of bricks I adore. In fact, the one LEGO set I dream of obtaining, a highly sought-after MSC exclusive, had sold out a whopping two months prior! No word on when they’d be restocked, leaving me feeling like a ship without a sail when it came to LEGO acquisitions.

To add insult to injury, the remaining LEGO sets available for purchase were a major disappointment. The prices were significantly inflated compared to what I find on lego.com, making them a hard pill to swallow. Plus, most of the sets were ones I already possessed in my vast LEGO collection. It felt like the LEGO gods were testing my patience!

But as the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining. This enforced break from physical LEGO sets gave me ample time to dive deep into the digital realm. Hours were spent exploring online LEGO communities, drooling over custom builds, and keeping a close eye on upcoming releases. And let me tell you, the LEGO world is more exciting than ever!

I’m particularly thrilled about the upcoming LEGO Wicked sets! The news of this collaboration between LEGO and the iconic musical has sent ripples of excitement through the fan community. It’s a match made in brick-building heaven!

Four enchanting sets are scheduled to hit shelves on October 1st, 2024, coinciding with the release of the highly anticipated film adaptation. Let’s dive into the details:

75681 Glinda, Elphaba & Nessarose at Shiz University (304 pieces):

This set introduces us to the enchanting world of Shiz University with mini-doll versions of Glinda, Elphaba, and Nessarose. I can already imagine the endless possibilities for role-playing and storytelling with these characters.

75682 Elphaba & Glinda Figures (280 pieces):

This set offers a unique build experience with larger-scale figures of Elphaba and Glinda. These dolls are packed with intricate details, capturing the essence of these beloved characters.

75683 Glinda & Elphaba's Dormitory (425 pieces):

Step into the heart of Shiz University with this dormitory set, featuring rooms for both Glinda and Elphaba. It’s the perfect setting for recreating iconic scenes from the musical.

75684 Welcome to Emerald City (836 pieces):

This grand set brings the vibrant and bustling Emerald City to life, complete with iconic locations and characters. It promises to be a centerpiece for any LEGO Wicked collection.

With prices ranging from £24.99 to £89.99, there’s something for every LEGO fan and Wicked enthusiast. I can’t wait to get my hands on these sets and start building my own Oz!

As I eagerly await the release of these magical sets, I’m also planning to revisit some classic LEGO themes and explore new building techniques. Stay tuned for more LEGO adventures, reviews, and build inspirations. Until next time, happy building!

As a Lego enthusiast, I'm always up for a new challenge. Recently, I decided to try the "Build in the Bag" challenge, where you build an entire set without ever opening the bag! For my first attempt, I opted for the LEGO City Police Off-Road Buggy (Set 30664). This seemed like the perfect choice - a GWP polybag with a manageable 35 pieces, 13 steps, and no sneaky "bags within bags" to throw me off.

Let me tell you, it was an exhilarating experience! The limited number of pieces kept things focused, but the lack of visual instructions definitely added a layer of suspense. Every successful click of a brick felt like a mini-victory.

Contrary to my expectations, the trickiest part wasn't attaching the chunky off-road tires to the wheels. Those snapped into place surprisingly easily. The real head-scratcher? The visor on the police minifigure's helmet! Those tiny pieces can be fiddly even with good lighting, but fumbling around blindly was a whole new level.

In the end, I emerged victorious with a completed police buggy and a newfound appreciation for the little details in Lego sets. The finished product itself is a neat little off-roader, perfect for zooming around my Lego city. The police officer minifigure and the exclusive wanted poster are nice bonuses too.

If you're looking for a quick and exciting Lego challenge, I highly recommend giving the "Build in the Bag" method a try, and the LEGO City Police Off-Road Buggy (Set 30664) makes a fantastic first attempt. Just be prepared to wrestle with those tiny visor pieces!

Bob Rating: If you are looking for a build in the bah challenge - 9/10

With Lego releasing their own Red Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus (set 60407), I decided to take a closer look at the CADA London Vintage Tour Bus (C59008W) – and I'm glad I did! As a Lego enthusiast, I usually stick to the brand I know and love. But this CADA set has definitely changed my perspective on off-brand building bricks.

This double-decker bus is a real treat to build. One of the coolest features is the option to have it as a classic red double-decker with a roof, or convert it into an open-top tour bus for sightseeing – perfect for recreating those iconic London scenes! The set even comes with a lighting kit, which adds a whole new level of awesomeness (though you'll need to find your own USB power source).

The interior details are what really set this bus apart. There's a meticulously designed cocktail bar on the lower deck and a party area complete with a DJ booth and speakers up top. It truly captures the vibrant atmosphere of a London tour bus. The only slight downside? A couple of the included stickers have spelling mistakes. One isn't too noticeable as it's on the inside of the bus, but the other one is a bit of a head-scratcher – the final destination listed is "Hyde Park Coner" instead of "Corner." A minor detail in the grand scheme of things, but it still annoys me each and every time i see it on the shelf.

Overall, the CADA London Vintage Tour Bus is a fantastic set. The high-quality bricks, the convertible roof option, the lighting kit, and the incredible interior details make it a real winner. While the sticker snafu is a bit disappointing, it's easily forgiven considering the overall quality and fun factor. If you're looking for a unique and impressive Lego alternative for your London-loving self, this CADA bus definitely deserves a spot in your collection.

Bob Rating: 5/10 - A good set with clear instructions but that spelling mistake and lack of Lego branding dragged it down.

Looking for a way to celebrate Pride Month with a pop of creativity? Look no further than the LEGO Everyone is Awesome (40516) set! This vibrant set turned out to be a delightful surprise. While I'm always up for a LEGO challenge, sometimes you just want a relaxing build that sparks joy. The Everyone is Awesome set perfectly fit the bill. The instructions were straightforward, making it a smooth and enjoyable experience, perfect for an afternoon of unwinding and letting the colourful bricks work their magic.

But this set goes way beyond just being a fun build. What truly impressed me was the message it conveys. The rainbow colour scheme and the diverse collection of single-coloured minifigures come together to celebrate individuality and inclusivity. It's a refreshing change to see a company like LEGO using their platform to promote acceptance, and it definitely makes this set more than just a collection of bricks. It's a statement.

The finished product is a compact display piece that packs a powerful punch. The bright colours instantly add a touch of cheer to any room, and the message it conveys is clear: Everyone is Awesome! But this set's potential extends far beyond its intended purpose. The internet is buzzing with creative ways people have used the minifigures to customize their existing LEGO builds. It's inspiring to see how this set has sparked creativity and fostered a sense of community among LEGO fans.

Overall, the LEGO Everyone is Awesome set is a win on multiple levels. It's a fun and quick build that celebrates Pride and all things awesome. It functions as a symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community, and the unique minifigures open up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you're a seasoned LEGO builder or a casual fan looking for a way to show your support, this set is a fantastic way to add a pop of colour and a message of inclusivity to your space. I highly recommend it!

Bob Rating: 7.5/10 - A quick good-looking build but a bit too simple.

It was a familiar scene: hot summer night, little man fast asleep, and the flickering light from the living room TV telling me exactly what my wife was up to – another night of period dramas on Netflix.

Knowing I wouldn't survive an entire episode of corseted romance, I decided to chip away at the ever-growing piles of unbuilt sets taking over every spare piece of space in the house, I grabbed the LEGO Marvel Ghost Rider Mech & Bike (Set 76245).

This 345-piece set, featuring a Ghost Rider minifigure, was the perfect antidote to a night of historical fiction. The build itself was a breeze, ideal for unwinding after a long day and a great way to zone out (or maybe catch up on some epic Ghost Rider showdowns on YouTube in between building steps). An extra perk? The instructions included a QR code – a quick scan and I was 20 LEGO insider points richer!

One of the things that I truly appreciated on this set was the absence of stickers. No more wrestling with tiny decals – what you see is what you get with this fiery build.

LEGO continues to impress me with their themed minifigure building instructions. Each page in the manual features a mini Ghost Rider at the bottom, progressing through the build alongside you – a small detail that adds a touch of fun, especially for fans of the character.

While not the most complex build, the Ghost Rider Mech & Bike offers a satisfying result, especially for fans of the character or those looking for a quick and enjoyable LEGO adventure. So, if you find yourself in a similar situation – in need of a break from reality, with a pile of bricks at your feet – this fiery set might be the perfect way to unwind!

Bob Rating: 10/10 Perfect for a quick build

As a Rolling Stones fan with a serious case of LEGO-fever, the 1,998-piece LEGO Art Rolling Stones Tongue (31206) was practically a Brown Sugar rush – I couldn't resist.

Building it turned into a full-on Stones experience – sorting the bricks became a meditative state fuelled by classic albums blasting in the background. The instructions were clear and kept things interesting, even with the sheer number of tiny pieces involved.

The finished product? Pure rock and roll royalty. It's a showstopper hanging on the wall, instantly recognizable and guaranteed to spark conversation with any music fan who walks by. But here's where things get a little sticky (pun intended).

The set cleverly incorporates a hidden design underneath the iconic tongue layers – a detailed 60 years tribute that celebrates the band's long-lasting legacy. Let's just say, it wasn't a Paint It, Black situation – there were plenty of colours to keep things lively. The problem? You meticulously build this cool little design, only to completely cover it up with the final red and white layers. It felt like a bit of a Sympathy for the Devil situation – all that effort hidden away. Here I was, picturing this awesome, layered effect with a subtle nod to the band's history, only to have it shrouded in mystery.

Don't get me wrong, having two potential masterpieces in one set is hardly a bad thing. But for a Stones aficionado like myself, the hidden "60 years" design felt like a bit of a tease. Ultimately, it's a fantastic set for any LEGO enthusiast or Stones fan. Just be prepared to make a tough decision: showcase the hidden tribute or rock the classic tongue logo? Either way, you'll be adding a stellar piece of art (with a touch of rock and roll history) to your wall. Just remember, you can't always Get Off My Cloud.

Remember the tunes I mentioned? They are all in the included soundtrack. It's a hidden gem – the perfect accompaniment to your building journey. Crank it up, let the music take over, and get ready to Start Me Up on your very own piece of Rolling Stones history.

Bob Rating: 8/10 (Would have been a 10/10 if it wasn't hiding that amazing 60 years)

This little LEGO set might be mini with only 356 pieces, but for classic space fans, it packs a punch of nostalgia with its modern homage to the classic Blacktron Invader set from 1987, keeping the core design elements while incorporating some sleek new building techniques.

Building the Blacktron Cruiser was a total trip down memory lane. It was like stepping back into my childhood bedroom, building spaceships with those iconic black and yellow bricks.

The set comes with one awesome Blacktron minifigure – that classic villainous grin under the black helmet never gets old. Building the ship itself was a breeze, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of LEGO fun. While there aren't any super complex building techniques, it was still satisfying to see the little space cruiser come together piece by piece.

The best part? Those awesome black and yellow stripes and the hinged wings! They really capture the spirit of the original Blacktron design, and you can position the wings for a sleek flying look or a more attack-ready stance.

Now, a couple of small things to mention. Since most of the bricks are black and yellow, sorting through the pieces took a bit longer than usual. And while the sticker sheet is small, I would have preferred printed pieces instead. But those are minor quibbles.

Overall, the LEGO Blacktron Cruiser (40580) is a fantastic little set, perfect for LEGO veterans or anyone who wants a taste of that classic space aesthetic. It's a fun, quick build with a cool minifigure, and it looks stellar on display.

Bob Rating: 9/10 Definitely recommended!