Let's be real for a second. Most of the high-end Nintendo collaborations from the LEGO Group feel like they require a second mortgage. You look at the massive Mighty Bowser or that intricate NES console and, while they’re gorgeous, they take up half a bookshelf and cost a small fortune. But then the LEGO Piranha Plant (set number 71426) showed up. It’s weirdly charming. It’s bite-sized. Honestly, it’s probably the most "Nintendo" thing the company has released in years because it captures that specific, quirky energy of the Super Mario universe without trying too hard to be a "prestige" museum piece.
It’s just a plant. In a pipe.
I’ve spent a lot of time looking at how these brick-built sculptures come together, and this one is a masterclass in using standard pieces to create organic, rounded shapes. If you’ve ever tried to build a sphere out of square blocks, you know it’s a nightmare. Yet, LEGO designers managed to make this carnivorous little guy look curvy and dangerous.
What’s Actually Inside the LEGO Piranha Plant Box?
You’re getting 540 pieces. That’s the sweet spot. It’s not so few that you finish it in twenty minutes, but it’s not so many that you’re still sorting through plastic bags three hours later. When you crack open the box, you’ll notice something immediately: there are no stickers. Everything—the white spots on the head, the coin elements—is printed. That is a massive win. Nothing ruins a display piece faster than a crooked, peeling sticker that you applied with shaky hands on a Tuesday night.
The build starts with the green pipe. It’s solid. It acts as a heavy base, which is necessary because the head of the LEGO Piranha Plant is surprisingly dense. If the base were flimsy, the whole thing would tip over the moment you tried to pose it. Inside that base, you’ll find a couple of "Easter egg" coins. You can't see them once the set is finished, but you know they’re there. It’s a nice nod to the source material.
💡 You might also like: Why Batman Arkham City Still Matters More Than Any Other Superhero Game
Then you get into the stem and the head. The articulation here is the real star. You can move the mouth, the stalk, and the leaves. It’s poseable. Want it looking straight up? Done. Want it lunging at a stray Mario figure on your desk? Easy.
Why the Scale Matters More Than You Think
Usually, LEGO Super Mario sets are part of that "Course Builder" system. You know the ones—they have the barcodes that the electronic Mario figure reads. They’re toys. They’re meant for kids to play with. This LEGO Piranha Plant is different. It belongs to the 18+ line, which basically means "this is for your desk or shelf."
It stands about 9 inches tall.
That height is perfect. It fits next to a computer monitor without blocking the screen. It sits on a bookshelf next to your games without looking like a giant, looming plastic monster. It’s a "display" set that doesn't demand its own dedicated furniture.
📖 Related: Will My Computer Play It? What People Get Wrong About System Requirements
The Design Tricks Most People Miss
The "head" of the plant uses some really clever SNOT techniques. That stands for "Studs Not On Top." Basically, the designers build in every direction to hide the bumpy LEGO studs. This gives the Piranha Plant a smooth, premium feel.
Look closely at the "lips." They use curved white elements that wrap around the mouth. It’s a simple solution for a complex shape. The jaw is hinged, and it’s satisfyingly clicky. You can actually store things in its mouth if you’re feeling playful—maybe some spare LEGO coins or a small note.
The leaves are also attached via ball joints. This gives you a range of motion that feels organic. Most LEGO sets feel stiff. This one feels like it’s about to snap at your fingers.
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
Price is always the sticking point. At roughly $60, it’s one of the most accessible "adult" Nintendo sets. Compare that to the $270 Bowser. Or the $230 NES. Suddenly, sixty bucks for a high-quality display piece feels like a steal.
👉 See also: First Name in Country Crossword: Why These Clues Trip You Up
There is one downside, though. Some fans were disappointed that it isn't "functional" in the LEGO Super Mario game world. There’s no digital tag. If you tap your electronic Mario on it, nothing happens. It’s a standalone display piece. For some, that’s a dealbreaker. For me? It’s a relief. I don't need my display models to beep at me.
How to Display Your Piranha Plant
Don't just stick it in a dark corner. This set looks best under warm light because the red of the head really pops against the green pipe.
- The "Gamer Desk" Setup: Place it right next to your console or PC. It’s a conversation starter.
- The "Actual Plant" Stealth: Put it among real houseplants. From a distance, it blends in. Up close, it’s a fun surprise for guests.
- The Pair-Up: If you have the LEGO Tiny Plants set, the Piranha Plant fits right in with that aesthetic.
A Fast Build with Long-Term Appeal
The LEGO Piranha Plant isn't a stressful build. It’s a "Sunday afternoon with a podcast" kind of build. You won't be squinting at the instructions trying to figure out which shade of dark gray you're supposed to use. The colors are vibrant and distinct.
It’s a rare set. It manages to be both a toy and a piece of art. It reminds us why we love these games in the first place—not because of the high-definition graphics, but because of the iconic characters that have stayed with us for decades.
If you’re looking for a gift for a Nintendo fan, or if you just want something cool for your own space, this is it. It’s iconic. It’s sturdy. It’s a little bit mean-looking.
Actionable Next Steps for Collectors:
- Check for Sales: While the MSRP is fair, retailers often drop this set to the $48-$52 range during holiday windows. Keep an eye on major retailers like Amazon or Target.
- Verify Piece Count: If buying "Open Box," ensure you have all 540 pieces, specifically the printed "spot" tiles, as these are unique to this set and harder to replace via third-party sellers.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Like all LEGO, the red and green bricks will fade over years of UV exposure. Place it in a spot with indirect lighting to keep those colors vibrant.
- Keep the Box? Unless you're a hardcore investor, the box for this specific set isn't likely to skyrocket in value. Flatten it if you must keep it, but don't let it take up valuable storage space.