LEGO Unveils Functional Minifigure Vending Machine

If you've followed LEGO's releases over the years, you already know they produce some remarkable sets. But it's worth repeating: I'm consistently impressed by LEGO designers' creativity in transforming simple bricks into everything from botanical arrangements and Marvel characters to spacecraft and historical ships.

Minifigure Vending Machine

$179.99 at LEGO Store

Set #: 21358

Pieces: 1,343

Age Range: 18+

Dimensions: 12" H (28cm) × 7" W (17cm) × 9" D (21cm)

While many sets recreate pop culture icons or real-world objects, some models achieve actual functionality. The LEGO Minifigure Vending Machine belongs to this extraordinary category - after assembling 13 bags of bricks over several hours, you wind up with a fully operational machine that dispenses minifigures. It's genuinely remarkable craftsmanship.

Despite its complex functionality, the vending machine's construction follows a logical progression. The build begins with the base framework, gradually adding structural supports and mechanical components. The instructions cleverly break down the mechanism into modular sub-assemblies that integrate seamlessly into the main structure.

Certain steps require particular precision - aligning flexible flaps between rubber components or positioning mechanical parts exactly - which explains the 18+ rating. The manual thoughtfully includes dedicated pages illustrating common assembly pitfalls, ensuring builders overcome these tricky sections successfully.

The building experience remains engaging throughout, with minifigure capsules being assembled in stages rather than all at once. Unlike some sets with repetitive construction phases, this model maintains interest from start to finish.

The most rewarding moment comes during operation: inserting the specially designed coin (made from two LEGO pieces), turning the crank, and watching the mechanism precisely dispense a minifigure capsule - with authentic vending machine functionality that rejects non-payment attempts.

As IGN's resident LEGO expert, I continue to marvel at the company's engineering prowess. While the pricing structure may draw criticism (fairly), the quality justifies the investment through meticulous manufacturing tolerances that maintain compatibility across decades, and constantly evolving, impressive designs that push creative boundaries.

We Build LEGO Minifigure Vending Machine

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