The Evolution of LEGO Super Mario: Minifigures Are Finally Coming
For years, the partnership between LEGO and Nintendo has been defined by interactive, digital-first experiences. Since the 2020 launch of the LEGO Super Mario line, fans have engaged with chunky, electronic figures that mimic the mechanics of a platforming video game through voice feedback and motion sensors. While this approach offered a unique way to “play” a level, many collectors have long clamored for a more traditional aesthetic.
It appears that the long-standing barrier to classic Mario minifigures is finally crumbling. While LEGO has successfully expanded into other Nintendo-themed properties-most notably the recent high-octane LEGO Mario Kart releases-the company has historically avoided standard minifigures for the plumber and his friends. That strategy is reportedly shifting, signaling a major pivot for the brand.
A New Era for Nintendo Collectors
Industry reports from sources like Unibricks suggest that January 2027 will mark a turning point for the collaboration. Rather than focusing solely on the interactive, battery-operated figures that defined the early years of the partnership, the upcoming wave of sets is expected to feature traditional, display-ready minifigures. This shift aligns with the broader trend of LEGO catering to the “AFOL” (Adult Fans of LEGO) demographic, who prioritize displayability and character accuracy over digital gimmicks.
This transition is particularly significant given the massive success of the Super Mario Bros. Movie, which grossed over $1.3 billion globally. By moving toward minifigures, LEGO is tapping into the nostalgia and visual consistency that fans have come to expect from their favorite gaming icons.
The 2027 LEGO Super Mario Lineup
The rumored collection covers a wide price spectrum, ranging from accessible impulse buys to larger, more complex builds. Here is the anticipated release schedule for the upcoming minifigure-scale sets:
- Mario’s Pipe Jump – $9.99
- Mario Kart – Racing with Mario – $14.99
- Mario Kart – Luigi & Bowser Jr’s Karts – $29.99
- Fire Luigi vs. Koopa Troopa Battle – $29.99
- Mario’s Beach Adventures – $19.99
- Yoshi at Mario’s House – $39.99
- Mario Kart – Bowser’s Rumbling Kart – $59.99
- Fire Mario & Bowser’s Castle – $99.99
Whether you are a long-time Nintendo enthusiast or a LEGO builder looking to expand your display shelf, these sets represent a long-awaited evolution in the partnership. By blending the iconic kart-racing aesthetic with classic platforming environments, LEGO is positioning itself to capture a new generation of fans who prefer the tactile, classic feel of traditional minifigures.
