LEGO’s latest Creator 3‑in‑1 Retro Gaming Console (set 31380) has been revealed as a budget‑friendly, buildable celebration of classic gaming hardware. Designed as a compact display piece rather than a one‑to‑one replica, the set leans into a general retro aesthetic that should appeal to both LEGO fans and classic gaming enthusiasts.
The set is scheduled to launch January 2026, with a recommended retail price of £17.99 / $19.99 / €19.99, positioning it as an accessible entry point into LEGO’s growing range of gaming‑inspired builds.
Three creative builds in one box
As part of the Creator 3‑in‑1 line, set 31380 allows builders to construct one of three different retro‑themed models using the same collection of bricks. Only one build can be assembled at a time, but the flexibility encourages rebuilding and experimentation.
The three available builds are:
- Retro handheld gaming console – featuring two movable joysticks, two buttons, and three brick‑built game cartridges that can be swapped in and out
- Mini desktop computer – complete with a small monitor, keyboard, disk, and mouse, evoking classic home computer setups
- Arcade cabinet – a tiny upright arcade machine that captures the look of classic coin‑op cabinets in brick form
Each model is designed primarily for display, but they also work well as imaginative play pieces or desk decorations.
Designed for play and display
With 268 pieces and a recommended age rating of 8 and up, the Retro Gaming Console set strikes a balance between simplicity and detail. The builds are straightforward enough for younger LEGO fans, while still offering plenty of charm for adult builders who enjoy nostalgic themes.
Rather than recreating a specific real‑world console, the design draws inspiration from multiple eras of gaming history. This gives the models a timeless feel and avoids tying the set too closely to any single brand or platform.
LEGO also supports the set with digital instructions via the LEGO Builder app, allowing builders to view steps in 3D, rotate models, and track their progress throughout the build.
How it fits into LEGO’s retro gaming line‑up
The Creator 31380 set arrives at a time when LEGO is clearly leaning into gaming culture as a source of inspiration. It follows larger and more detailed builds such as the LEGO Game Boy, which we previously covered on GamingRetro, but takes a more playful and affordable approach.
While the Game Boy set focuses on authenticity and display‑grade detail, the Retro Gaming Console set is about variety, creativity, and light‑hearted nostalgia. Together, they highlight how LEGO is catering to different types of retro gaming fans.
For anyone looking to add a small, characterful gaming‑themed build to their collection — or searching for a gift that blends classic gaming with LEGO creativity — LEGO Creator 31380 Retro Gaming Console fits the bill nicely. It’s coming on January 1st, 2026.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
