The Collector's Dilemma: LEGO Game Boy or NES in 2025?

If you’ve ever stared at your shelf, arms crossed, trying to decide whether to show off your LEGO NES build or your Game Boy masterpiece, you’re not alone.

In 2025, both sets are iconic in their own right—and choosing a favorite feels a bit like picking your favorite childhood memory. I’ve spent the better part of the past week reassembling, comparing, and showcasing both, and still… I can’t decide which one deserves the spotlight.

📦 Build Experience: A Matter of Hands and Heart

On one side, the LEGO Game Boy Build Kit (Set 72046) brings handheld nostalgia into your hands—literally. Its compact, portable design is a satisfying weekend build, and its cartridge system has just enough charm to make you grin every time you insert one. It’s not overly complicated, but it packs an emotional punch for anyone who’s ever owned a Game Boy.

On the other side, the LEGO 71374 NES Set is a mechanical marvel. That crank-operated TV? Still one of the most ingenious LEGO features I’ve built. It takes longer to construct, but the payoff is huge—especially when paired with the LEGO Mario figure for interactive movement. The build is immersive and layered, almost like piecing together a museum-worthy tribute.

🧱 Display Value: Playful vs. Powerhouse

From a display standpoint, these sets represent two very different vibes. The Game Boy is subtle and adorable—it invites people to take a closer look. It fits perfectly on a desk or shelf, catching the eye without overwhelming the space. It’s the kind of set that sparks quiet appreciation.

The NES, though? It’s a conversation starter. Big, bold, and unmistakably retro, it’s the kind of piece you center your collection around. It commands attention and nostalgia in equal parts. When visitors drop by, the NES tends to grab attention first. But the Game Boy gets more curiosity—people pick it up, flip it over, and marvel at how LEGO managed to nail the proportions.

🕹️ Emotional Pull: Which Memory Wins?

For me, this is the part that gets tricky.

The NES takes me back to Saturday mornings, controllers tangled on the floor, my brother yelling about who gets the next life. The sound of 8-bit music through the TV, the feel of blowing on cartridges when they didn’t load—it’s a communal memory.

The Game Boy, though? That was mine. My first personal console. Played under the covers with a flashlight, headphones in, completely lost in 8-bit worlds. It was quiet, personal, and magical. That sense of ownership made every level feel like my own little quest.

So how do you choose between shared joy and solo escape?

🧩 Final Verdict: Maybe You Don’t Have To Choose

After all this deliberation, maybe that’s the answer—don’t choose.

If you’re a LEGO fan, a retro gaming enthusiast, or a sentimental collector, both sets bring something unique to the table. Together, they capture the full spectrum of early Nintendo magic: the living room chaos of the NES and the pocket-sized wonder of the Game Boy.

Want a direct side-by-side comparison of how they differ in build, display, and interactivity? I’ve put together a full LEGO Game Boy vs NES comparison guide here.

Whichever one you start with, the other will eventually call to you. Trust me.

👤 About the Author

Arthurri is the voice behind Yoshaa Reviews, a blog dedicated to uncovering the best in retro collectibles, tech kits, smart savings tools, and everyday gear that delivers real-world value. With a sharp eye for nostalgic builds and a passion for helping readers make informed purchases, Arthurri blends storytelling with research-driven insights.

When he's not comparing LEGO sets or testing the latest cash-back apps, he’s crafting in-depth guides that simplify complex buying decisions. His goal? To save readers time, money, and regret—one review at a time.

Follow more of Arthurri’s work on platforms like Steemit, Blogger, Medium, and Vocal Media.