How LEGO Pokémon Turned Childhood Icons Into Luxury Collectibles With Prices Reaching Over $1K
by Andrew Berson
LEGO Pokémon game set (Image: Lego)
LEGO’s debut Pokémon flagship was set at a remarkable $649.99 for the Kanto evolutions build. Despite its displeasing price, the first preorder collection sold out in a day. People are already trying to resell the set on sites for over $1000.
The flagship set was a 72153 Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise. This 6,838-piece model has a large display and is recommended for experienced builders, marketed to people 18+. Along with the main set, LEGO Pokémon is also releasing two more sets: 72151 Eevee and 72152 Pikachu and Poke Ball. The launch for these three sets is set for February 27, 2026, right on time for Pokémon Day and Pokémon’s 30th anniversary.
Notably, if you are a LEGO Insider, you can redeem 2,500 LEGO Insider points to acquire the Mini Pokémon Center. This build is a 233-piece build and is recommended for ages 18+.
With the initial allotment sold out on the Pokémon Center and LEGO sites, resellers are taking advantage, listing the sets for over four figures each. Fans should really wait to buy the set, because it will most likely not retain its $1000 resale value.
LEGO is pivoting to a broader idea by focusing on selling to adult collectors. The new Pokémon set can be compared to the $1000 2025 Star Wars Death Star or the $400 USS Enterprise-D Star Trek ship. According to a Circana report, “adults continue to drive market growth in toys, with sales increasing by 18% for recipients aged 18 and older.”
Pokémon’s first official Lego outing will be too expensive for kids, with most of the products going to longtime Pokémon fans and adult collectors. LEGO Pokémon is turning kids’ favorite characters into premium collectibles. Which can be seen as a dream collectible for some, the high price of the sets can be a slap in the face to a long-time fan.
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