LEGO announced it will be launching a new Haunted House building set aimed at adult hobbyists on June 1. The kit includes 3,281 pieces and incorporates electronic and controllable features using LEGO's Powered Up components and a proprietary app.
The set also includes several figures including guests, staff, and a few creepy residents to complete the experience. By using Powered Up parts that are sold separately, builders can control the elevator from their phone via LEGO’s Powered Up app. Introduced in 2017, Powered Up features a line of simple motors, lights, and sensors that can be added to LEGO building kits allowing for a more variable, less static experience.
When completed the Haunted House will measure over 26.5” (68cm) high, 9” (25cm) wide and 9” (25cm) deep, making this project a challenge for even the most experienced LEGO builders. The structure also opens up so builders can see all of the spooky details inside. Based on the classic LEGO series Adventurers that ran from 1998 until 2003, this kit includes plenty of fun for the entire family including a functional free-fall ride, haunted doors, and a battery-powered, light-up painting. Everything is presented as a tourist attraction with mysterious artifacts from across the globe and even an organ to contribute to the ominous atmosphere.
The LEGO Creator Expert series has been extremely popular for the brand since it launched in 2013 and new sets are being considered all the time. This newest set is timed perfectly for those already gearing up for Halloween, which is still over five months away. The $249.99 price is comparable to the other big models that LEGO has offered recently, and the 18+ rating clearly indicates that this set is intended for dedicated enthusiasts.
While LEGO has done quite a few brand promotions in recent years, the timing of this release seems a bit strange considering that haunted houses are not likely to feature prominently given the current pandemic. The price tag is also considerable for something that has no cross-over appeal with another property. That being said, since actual haunted houses aren't likely to be available this fall then building one seems like a fun alternative. While definitely on the higher end of complexity, the Haunted House sits just outside of the top twenty-five largest models, but is the second largest set to release in 2020.
This LEGO Haunted House set goes on sale June 1 at LEGO stores, but will be available to VIP members next week on May 20.
Source: Gizmodo UK