When LEGO Group announced two brand‑new LEGO Ideas sets on August 28, 2025, the news instantly lit up fan forums and retail aisles alike. The reveals—The Goonies (set 21363) and Gizmo from the Gremlins franchise (set 21361)—are the culmination of an “80s IP challenge” that attracted more than 290 community submissions. The sets will ship later this year, with The Goonies slated for a November 1 launch, and they signal LEGO’s aggressive push into nostalgia‑driven product lines.
Background: How the ‘80s IP Challenge Got Going
The competition kicked off in early 2025 when the company launched the 80s IP challenge. Fans were asked to design LEGO builds based on iconic 1980s movies, TV shows, or games. Submissions streamed in from all corners of the community, with the official portal recording 292 entries by mid‑year.
Voting unfolded in two rounds: an initial peer‑review phase followed by a final panel of LEGO designers. The process was livestreamed from LEGO’s headquarters in Billund, Denmark, adding a touch of transparency that resonated with hobbyists.
Set Details: What Builders Are Getting
Vaggelis Ntezes, a veteran fan‑designer, spearheaded the winning Goonies concept. The set comprises 2,912 pieces and will retail for US $329.99, CAN $379.99, and UK £269.99. It features a double‑sided layout: one side reconstructs the infamous One‑Eyed Willie pirate ship, while the opposite side narrates the film’s adventure through a series of interconnected vignettes. Builders will also get 12 minifigures, covering the whole gang from Mikey to Data.
The Gizmo set, while still awaiting a full piece‑count reveal, promises a highly detailed Mogwai figure with articulated ears and tail. The official LEGO teaser video, hosted by YouTube creator “John the Dyslexic Geek,” highlighted the set’s glossy “gremlin‑green” bricks and a clever display stand that mimics the iconic pet‑store cage.
- Set 21363 – The Goonies: 2,912 pieces, 12 minifigures, release Nov 1 2025, $329.99 USD.
- Set 21361 – Gizmo: Details pending, release scheduled for 2025, price expected around $120‑$150 USD.
The Selection Process: Community Power Meets Corporate Strategy
The winning designs didn’t just pass a popularity poll; they aligned with LEGO’s broader licensing roadmap. According to an interview with LEGO’s IP manager, the company holds the rights to both The Goonies and the Gremlins franchise, making them low‑risk choices for a global rollout.
Industry observers note that the 80s IP challenge is part of a series of “nostalgia” contests LEGO plans to run through 2026, including upcoming “A Twist Nostalgia” and “Build Your Nostalgia” challenges. These initiatives aim to keep the Ideas pipeline fresh while tapping into the buying power of adult fans who grew up with the source material.
Market Impact: Pricing, Piece Counts, and Fan Reception
Financially, the Goonies set lands at the premium end of the Ideas spectrum, a clear indication that LEGO expects collectors to splurge for high‑detail, high‑piece‑count builds. By contrast, other 2025 Ideas releases—like the Evolution of STEM (879 pieces, $79.99) and the Twilight: The Cullen House (2,001 pieces, $219.99)—target a more accessible price point.
Early reactions on BrickFanatics, Brothers Brick, and The Brick Player have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans praised the dual‑sided board for its storytelling ambition, and many highlighted the set’s potential as a display piece that doubles as a conversation starter.
Retail analysts predict the Goonies set could sell out within weeks of launch, especially given its limited‑run status—LEGO typically caps Ideas releases at 10,000‑15,000 units worldwide. The Gizmo set, with a slightly lower price, is expected to attract both Gremlins aficionados and younger builders drawn to the cute‑but‑spooky aesthetic.
Future Plans: What’s Next for LEGO Ideas?
Beyond the two 80s winners, LEGO has a pipeline of nine additional Ideas sets slated for 2025‑2026, ranging from a Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. figure to a Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory set. The company disclosed that a total of 15 sets are currently in various development stages, reflecting a historic expansion of the Ideas program.
Looking ahead, the “A Twist Nostalgia” challenge could bring property‑heavy sets like an X‑Files or Buffy the Vampire Slayer build into the mix. As one LEGO spokesperson hinted, “We’re listening to the community, and ‘80s is just the beginning.”
Key Facts
- Announced: August 28 2025
- Winning sets: The Goonies (21363) and Gizmo (21361)
- Submission count: 292 entries for the 80s IP challenge
- Release dates: The Goonies – Nov 1 2025; Gizmo – 2025 (exact date TBA)
- Price range: $120‑$330 USD
Frequently Asked Questions
When will The Goonies LEGO Ideas set be available for purchase?
The Goonies set (21363) is scheduled to hit stores on November 1, 2025, both online and at LEGO brand retailers worldwide.
How many pieces does the Gizmo set contain, and what is its price?
Exact piece count for the Gizmo set (21361) hasn’t been disclosed yet, but LEGO is expected to price it between $120 and $150 USD, positioning it as a mid‑range Ideas release.
What was the selection process for the 80s IP challenge?
The challenge began in March 2025, inviting fans to submit designs. Submissions were first filtered by community votes, then reviewed by a LEGO design panel that considered licensing, buildability, and fan appeal before announcing the two winners in August.
Why is LEGO focusing on 1980s nostalgia now?
LEGO’s market research shows a strong buying power among adults who grew up in the 1980s. By licensing beloved movies like The Goonies and Gremlins, LEGO taps into emotional connections that drive premium sales and generate buzz across social media.
Are there more nostalgia‑themed LEGO Ideas sets planned for 2026?
Yes. LEGO has announced upcoming “A Twist Nostalgia” and “Build Your Nostalgia” challenges, with potential candidates ranging from X‑Files to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Reviews and official announcements are expected in early 2026.
Arlen Fitzpatrick
My name is Arlen Fitzpatrick, and I am a sports enthusiast with a passion for soccer. I have spent years studying the intricacies of the game, both as a player and a coach. My expertise in sports has allowed me to analyze matches and predict outcomes with great accuracy. As a writer, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and love for soccer with others, providing insights and engaging stories about the beautiful game. My ultimate goal is to inspire and educate soccer fans, helping them to deepen their understanding and appreciation for the sport.
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