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LEGO’s Nintendo Entertainment System (71374) and Atari 2600 (10306) rebuild recognizable console hardware as display models, then use different tricks to bring the scenes to life. The NES set turns a handle to scroll an 8-bit Mario across a miniature TV; the Atari set pairs its console and moving joystick with three game-inspired vignettes. Neither is a playable recreation of the original hardware: LEGO describes the Atari model as non-functional, and the NES screen effect is a mechanical display rather than gameplay.
What the two sets recreate
Both builds extend beyond a console-shaped shell. LEGO’s NES model combines the console with a controller, a buildable Game Pak, and a retro television. Its Atari 2600 model recreates the console’s front switches and joystick, and includes three cartridges, a cartridge holder, and small scenes inspired by the games.
| Set | Piece count and date | Hardware details | How it represents games |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Entertainment System, 71374 | 2,646 pieces; 2020, according to LEGO’s building instructions page. | Console, controller with cable and plug, buildable Game Pak, and retro TV; the cartridge slot opens and has a locking function, according to LEGO’s product page. | A hand-operated TV mechanism scrolls a scene with flat 8-bit Mario. |
| Atari 2600, 10306 | 2,532 pieces, according to LEGO’s 2023 US catalog. | Console with front switches, a movable joystick, three cartridges, and a holder, according to LEGO’s product page. | Three small scenes inspired by Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede, plus a hidden 1980s gaming-room vignette. |
The comparison is about the features LEGO describes, not measured scale or verified fidelity. The NES emphasizes the controller-and-cartridge arrangement and moving TV screen; the Atari build emphasizes switches, joystick, cartridge storage, and game-themed scenes.
How the LEGO NES screen effect works
The NES set’s television uses a handle-operated mechanism to scroll a representation of Super Mario Bros. across the screen. The cartridge slot opens and locks, echoing how a Game Pak fits into the console. These moving parts make the model interactive as a display piece, but do not turn it into an NES that runs the original game.
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- 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
LEGO also describes an optional interaction with a LEGO Mario figure, which is not included with set 71374. The figure can scan an action brick on top of the TV and react to enemies, obstacles, and power-ups shown in the scene. That is an interaction between LEGO products, not gameplay through the brick-built console. LEGO says the set requires no batteries.
How the Atari build uses cartridges and scenes
The Atari 2600 set translates the console’s familiar controls and cartridge format into physical brick-built details: switches on the console, a joystick designed to move, and a holder for three game cartridges. The cartridges draw on Asteroids, Adventure, and Centipede, each of which has a corresponding small display scene. LEGO’s product materials also describe a hidden 1980s gaming-room scene, adding a second layer of display storytelling.
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
These details are part of a replica, not working Atari hardware. LEGO’s 2023 US catalog calls set 10306 a “non-functional replica.” The product materials also connect the Adventure tribute to its Easter egg, but do not describe any playable game function.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Availability and what “retired” means
LEGO’s official US product pages currently mark both 71374 and 10306 as retired. That status is not a statement about what independent sellers may have in stock: LEGO’s pages do not establish current marketplace inventory, seller status, or resale prices. Check current listings directly if you are looking to buy either set, and treat any price there as dependent on the seller and date.
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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
LEGO announced the Atari 2600 set on July 19, 2022, saying it was released in celebration of Atari’s 50th anniversary. In the announcement, LEGO designer Chris McVeigh said: “Working on this project in time for ATARI®’s 50th anniversary was a dream come true.” LEGO’s announcement provides the date and statement.
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
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.
