Mattelson’s 25th anniversary is being celebrated in more ways than one, and now there is a buildable tribute to the console that started it all. Mattel Brick Shop has announced the Microsoft Xbox Building Toy Kit For Collectors, a 1:1 scale recreation of the original 2001 Xbox. The set, which comes in at a hefty 3,509 pieces, is designed to sit on your shelf as a display piece while offering a fun building experience for adults and older teens.
Unlike the MEGA-branded Xbox 360 set that launched back in 2023, this new kit is officially under the Mattel Brick Shop umbrella. It includes a detailed replica of the iconic “Duke” controller, complete with functional buttons and a D-pad. But the real surprise lies inside the console’s shell. Once you finish the build, you can open the casing to reveal three hidden dioramas inspired by some of the system’s most beloved titles: Halo: Combat Evolved, Psychonauts, and The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind.
Interactive Dioramas and Built-In Lighting
These internal displays are not just static scenes. Each miniature set piece features built-in lighting that activates when you press the joypad on the Duke controller. This clever mechanical trigger brings the hidden worlds to life, allowing you to showcase your favorite game moments without having to open the console every time. The lighting system is powered by a small battery compartment built into the base of the Duke controller, making it a self-contained display unit.
The attention to detail extends to the dioramas themselves. The Morrowind scene includes recognizable landmarks from Vvardenfell, while the Psychonauts display captures the whimsical interior of the mental world. The Halo diorama features Master Chief in a classic pose, paying homage to the game that defined the Xbox brand. These scenes are designed to be visible from multiple angles, so you can rotate the console to show off each one.
The building process itself is a project in its own right. With 3,509 pieces, assembling the console will likely take several hours, requiring patience and attention to detail. The instructions are expected to be color-coded and step-by-step, guiding you through each phase of construction. From the chunky outer shell to the internal circuitry replicas, every component is designed to mirror the original hardware as closely as possible.
Price, Availability, and Comparison
The Microsoft Xbox Building Toy Kit For Collectors is listed at $329.99 at Best Buy, Amazon, and the Mattel Brick Shop website. As of now, there is no firm release date, though the listing suggests it will arrive later this year. For comparison, the MEGA Xbox 360 set launched in 2023 for $150, making this new kit more than double the price. However, it also includes significantly more pieces and interactive features.
At this price point, some collectors might wonder if it is worth it. You could easily pick up a working original Xbox console, the Duke controller, and copies of the three featured games on eBay for less than $330. However, this kit is designed for display rather than gameplay. It captures the aesthetic of the original hardware in a new, tactile way that appeals to nostalgia-driven fans.
The Mattel Brick Shop line has been gaining traction among adult collectors, offering a higher-quality alternative to traditional LEGO sets. The brand focuses on intricate designs and licensed properties, targeting enthusiasts who appreciate both the building experience and the final display piece. This Xbox kit continues that trend, blending gaming history with modern collectible culture.
What This Means for You
For Xbox enthusiasts, this kit is a must-have display piece. It celebrates the legacy of the original Xbox and its groundbreaking library of games. The interactive lighting feature adds a layer of engagement that static models lack, making it a conversation starter for any gaming room. If you have been looking for a unique way to honor the 25th anniversary of Xbox, this buildable console offers a creative and hands-on approach.
However, the price tag may be a barrier for some. While the quality and detail are impressive, the cost is comparable to buying a modern gaming console. It is best suited for dedicated collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a premium display item. The limited availability and high demand could also drive up resale values in the future.
How to Get It
You can preorder the Microsoft Xbox Building Toy Kit For Collectors at Best Buy, Amazon, and the Mattel Brick Shop website. Keep an eye on these retailers for updates on the release date. Once it ships, you can start building your own piece of gaming history and light up those hidden dioramas. Given the popularity of Mattel’s building sets, early reservations may be advisable to secure your copy.
Source: Latest from Windows Central
Over to you: Would you spend $330 on a buildable Xbox, or save that money for a real console and games?
