The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →LEGO’s Nintendo Entertainment System (71374) and Atari 2600 (10306) sets recreate recognizable console details as display models, but neither is a working game system. The NES build uses a hand-operated mechanism to scroll a scene on a brick-built television; the Atari build focuses on switches, cartridges, a moving joystick and game-inspired display scenes.
What the LEGO NES set recreates
Set 71374 includes a console, a controller with cable and plug, a buildable Game Pak and a retro television. The cartridge slot opens and has a locking function, while the television’s handle-operated mechanism scrolls a scene with flat, 8-bit-style Mario moving through a representation of Super Mario Bros. LEGO lists the set at 2,646 pieces and dates it to 2020 on its building instructions page. The official product page marks it retired.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What moves—and what does not
The handle moves the TV scene; it does not make the model a playable NES. LEGO also describes an optional interaction with a separate LEGO Mario figure, which is not included: the figure can scan an action brick on top of the TV and react to on-screen enemies, obstacles and power-ups. That is an interaction between LEGO products, not the original game running on the console model. LEGO says no batteries are required for the set.
Recommended Free Tools
What the LEGO Atari 2600 set recreates
Set 10306 builds the Atari console’s front switches and familiar joystick controls, along with three cartridges inspired by Asteroids, Adventure and Centipede. It includes a cartridge holder, a joystick designed to move and a small display scene for each game. There is also a hidden vignette depicting an 1980s gaming room. LEGO’s product page marks the set retired.
#1 Best Overall
- 3 IN 1 TOY FOR KIDS – LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Retro Gaming Console (31380) building toy lets boys and girls ages 8 years old and up construct 3 gaming toys from 1 set of LEGO bricks
- BUILD & REBUILD – Kids can dream up endless stories as they create 1 of 3 brick-built gaming toys: a handheld gaming console, a desktop mini computer or an arcade game machine (models cannot be built simultaneously)
- FUN TOY GAMING FEATURES – Gaming console has 2 moving buttons and 2 moving joysticks plus a choice of 3 game cartridges to insert, computer includes a keyboard and monitor with a disk to place inside and a mouse, and the arcade game machine has iconic retro details
- GAMER ROOM DECOR – When playtime is over, the completed build doubles as fun bedroom or play room decor for display on a shelf or desk
- GIFT FOR BOYS & GIRLS – Makes a fun birthday gift or anytime treat for little builders who love gaming toys and imaginative pretend play
A display model, not a playable Atari
LEGO’s 2023 catalog explicitly calls the Atari build a “non-functional replica” and lists it at 2,532 pieces. The scenes and controls are physical details for display and storytelling; they do not reproduce an operating Atari system. LEGO’s materials also describe a designer tribute to the Easter egg in Adventure. The set was announced on July 19, 2022, for Atari’s 50th anniversary, according to LEGO’s announcement.
How the two models approach console details
| Feature | Nintendo Entertainment System 71374 | Atari 2600 10306 |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware details | Console, controller with cable and plug, and an insertable Game Pak with a locking slot. | Console with front switches, joystick designed to move, three cartridges and a cartridge holder. |
| Game-inspired display | A handle-operated TV screen scrolls a scene with 8-bit Mario. | Three physical scenes inspired by Asteroids, Adventure and Centipede, plus a hidden 1980s-room vignette. |
| Piece count and date | 2,646 pieces; 2020, per LEGO’s instructions page. | 2,532 pieces, per LEGO’s 2023 US Easter catalog. |
| Gameplay | Not a working NES; the screen mechanism moves a scene. The optional LEGO Mario interaction uses a separate figure. | Non-functional replica, according to LEGO’s 2023 US Easter catalog. |
The contrast is in how each model depicts play: the NES set makes a scene move across a miniature screen, while the Atari set gives each featured game a physical vignette. Both extend the console display with accessories and storytelling. LEGO’s descriptions do not establish measured scale ratios or a comparative fidelity score, so “brick scale” describes the builds rather than a documented exact scale.
Rank #2
- BUILD AN ICON – Build the ultimate retro gaming display with the LEGO Game Boy (72046) model kit for adults ages 18 and up
- RELIVE THE EXCITEMENT – Remember powering up your Game Boy for the first time? Experience the thrill again with this authentic of the handheld gaming sensation
- DISCOVER AUTHENTIC DETAILS – The instantly-recognizable Game Boy features classic button layout, contrast dial, and interchangeable Game Pak and lenticular screens
- RETRO ROOM DECOR – Display this buildable model kit on any flat surface in your home or office as an eye-catching centerpiece that celebrates your love of LEGO and Game Boy
- GIFT FOR MEN & WOMEN – This unique DIY Building kit for adults is sure to thrill retro gaming fans, Nintendo collectors, and pop culture enthusiasts who remember their first Game Boy
Availability and what “retired” means here
LEGO’s US product pages currently label both sets retired. That establishes their status on those pages, not whether a particular retailer or resale seller has stock. The pages do not establish current marketplace inventory, seller status or resale prices; check those directly if you are looking to buy.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Build an interactive, 1980s-style TV set displaying the classic Super Mario Bros. game & activate it with LEGO Mario figure (not included)
- Authentic details of the NES console are recreated in LEGO style, including a controller and an opening slot for the buildable Game Pak
- The TV has a handle-operated scrolling screen, Mario figure reacts to the on-screen enemies, obstacles and power-ups when placed on the top
- Have to combine with the LEGO Mario in the LEGO Super Mario Adventures Starter Course (71360) to activate the set's interactive features
- Comes with a cable & plug connecting to the NES, turning channel knob and a realistic locking function to delight Super Mario Bros. fans
Rank #4
- Build a 1980s cabinet arcade game – Recreate the iconic 1980s maze-chase video game in LEGO bricks with this LEGO Icons PAC-MAN Arcade (10323) building set
- What’s in the box? – Includes all you need to build the PAC-MAN Arcade cabinet and a display case with rotatable PAC-MAN, BLINKY and CLYDE figures, plus a 1980s arcade scene with a gaming minifigure
- Packed with retro features – The cabinet has a 4-way joystick, illuminating coin slot, adjustable game score display and a mechanical maze that simulates the classic chase between the game characters
- Nostalgic gift idea – Adult fans of retro video games will love this set. Take time out for yourself or treat a loved one to mark any special anniversary or occasion
- Dimensions – The PAC-MAN Arcade cabinet (non-functional gaming system) measures over 12.5 in. (32 cm) high, 10 in. (25 cm) wide and 7 in. (17 cm) deep
Rank #3
- BUILDABLE ARCADE CABINET: This building block set lets you construct a detailed retro arcade gaming cabinet featuring classic game-themed design with colorful pixel art decoration and authentic arcade styling
- INTERACTIVE DISPLAY FEATURE: Turn the rotating knob on the side of the cabinet to recreate and change the classic arcade game scene displayed inside, bringing nostalgic gaming moments to life
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS: Features intricate design elements including a joystick, control buttons, coin slot mechanism, pixel art graphics, and a transparent screen area showcasing the buildable game scene with platforms and characters
- VIBRANT RED DESIGN: Eye-catching red cabinet with multicolored accents including blue, green, yellow, and white pixel-style decorations that capture the essence of vintage arcade gaming culture
- DISPLAY AND PLAY: Once assembled, this model serves as an impressive display piece for gaming enthusiasts and collectors, combining building fun with interactive elements for an engaging experience
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
