The LEGO Game Boy (set 72046) is a convincing, near 1:1-scale display model with satisfying tactile controls and clever build details—not a playable handheld. Its 421 pieces recreate the familiar shape and buttons, while interchangeable screens and two themed Game Paks let collectors tailor the display. The compromises are small but visible: some original hardware markings are missing, and the screen art could be more detailed.
What you get in LEGO Game Boy set 72046
LEGO lists the set as a 421-piece model under LEGO Super Mario. It includes a buildable display stand, brick-built Game Paks themed to The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening and Super Mario Land, interchangeable lenticular screens, and a Nintendo start screen. LEGO describes the model as a near 1:1-scale replica of the original Game Boy.
The completed model is over 5.5 inches (14 cm) high, 3.5 inches (9 cm) wide, and 1 inch (3 cm) deep, according to LEGO’s US product listing.
Is the LEGO Game Boy playable?
No. LEGO specifies that the model has no light, sound, or digital play functions. Its Game Paks and screens are display pieces; the controls and dials offer tactile interaction, not gameplay.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
The +Control Pad, A and B buttons, SELECT and START buttons can be pressed. The model also has contrast-adjustment and volume dials, plus a Game Pak slot. These details make it engaging to handle and pose, but they do not operate electronics.
How accurate is the model?
At a glance, the scale and recognizable layout do much of the work: the screen, controls, dials, and cartridge slot give it the proportions of the original handheld. LEGO’s near 1:1 description refers to the replica’s scale, not a promise that every hardware detail is reproduced.
Rank #2
- BUILDABLE ARCADE CABINET – Relive the fun of playing an iconic arcade game with the LEGO Donkey Kong Arcade (72051) building set for adults ages 18 and up
- AUTHENTIC ARCADE GAME DETAILS – Create a Donkey Kong arcade level featuring Jumpman, Donkey Kong and Lady, including iconic details like the scaffolding, ladders and hammer, along with a mechanism to circulate 21 barrels in a continuous loop
- WORKING JUMP AND DODGE PLAY – Pull the lever on the left side of the base to release one barrel at a time, then move Jumpman with the joystick and press the button to make him leap over the rolling barrels
- COLLECTIBLE RETRO DECOR – This model celebrates the original Donkey Kong arcade game and makes a perfect display piece for any entertainment room or home office
- GAMING GIFT FOR ADULTS – Treat yourself or give this cool piece of video game merch as a gift for men, women or any adult fans of Donkey Kong, Super Mario and retro gaming decor
In his hands-on review for The Verge, Senior Editor Sean Hollister praises the overall likeness but points out that the back leaves blank areas where original hardware carried model and regulatory markings. He also wanted greener screen art and more text. Those are specific omissions rather than evidence that the model fails to read as a Game Boy.
What is the build and handling experience like?
Hollister describes the modular construction and springy controls as central to the set’s appeal. He notes a drop-in D-pad, springy face buttons, and small mechanical touches hidden inside the build, including car tires used in the START and SELECT mechanisms. The brick-built speaker detail and the distinct save-game treatment on the Link’s Awakening Game Pak add character that is easy to miss in product photos.
Rank #3
- 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
As Hollister puts it, “The rubber nub brick under the D-pad makes for a surprisingly good action.” The controls are therefore more than printed decoration, even though they do not enable electronic play.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you insert an original Game Boy cartridge?
Hollister reports that a real cartridge can technically fit, but doing so stretches the build uncomfortably. Treat the slot as part of the display model, not as a feature for regular use with original cartridges.
Rank #4
- Buildable display model of a Super Mario Piranha Plant (71426) – Enjoy a building adventure as you capture the finer details of an iconic character from the Super Mario universe in LEGO style
- Create iconic poses – Pose the head, mouth, stalk and leaves of the Super Mario Piranha Plant figure
- Buildable pipe – Place the Piranha Plant in the brick-built pipe. The set also includes 2 coins
- Build and display – This LEGO Super Mario character will look great on display and makes a great addition to anyone's Super Mario brothers toy collection
- Gift for gamers – This 540-piece LEGO building set makes a fun birthday present, holiday gift or special treat for Super Mario fans and anyone with a passion for gaming
Is LEGO Game Boy set 72046 worth buying?
For a LEGO or Nintendo collector who wants a hands-on build and a recognizable shelf display, the set has a clear appeal: it pairs near 1:1 scale with tactile controls, small mechanical surprises, and interchangeable display elements. If you expect a working handheld, this is the wrong purchase; the model has no electronic gaming functions.
LEGO’s US shop listed the set at $59.99 and marked it “Available now” when checked on October 8, 2026. That is a dated US listing, not a guarantee of current stock or the price in another region. Hollister’s September 30, 2025 review showed $60 at Amazon and said he obtained an early copy for $50 at Costco; those are review-era prices, not current offers. Check live local listings and weigh the price against how much you value the build and display details.
Quick Recap
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