DrCockroach
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DrCockroach's Stats
- 4.7Average Rating
- 189Helpfulness Votes
- 1Featured Reviews
- 33Review Count
- June 28, 2012First Review
- June 19, 2015Last Review
Town Hall
Town Hall
Posted:January 11, 2013
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
A True Center Piece To The Modular Collection!
" Hello Lego fans! The Town Hall being the latest and some may argue greatest modular does not fail to please. The grandeur and scale of the model is probably the most stand-out feature and makes it very impressive to build and as a visual display piece as well as upping the piece-to-price value. It is a truly sumptuous model which is a great center piece for your modular collection, rather like a place for your minifigures to gather. It stands out from any other model for features like the bell tower, its extensive set of three floors and other impressive and innovative features like the rooftop skylights, pillared entrance way and the printed clock face-which is currently unique. The true size, scale and piece count make this model stand out from any other, which make it truly worth buying.
Now for the really good points. Firstly, the overall scale and size is really pleasing to find as most modular buildings stick to a margin of around two-thousand, three-hundred pieces. It was nice to get a seemingly extended and slightly more complex build out of another one of these great sets without departing from the classic style. Secondly the details and features which make the Town Hall stand out are a real highlight. These include the cleverly created pillars at the face of the model, the flower beds along the front, the clock tower and skylights atop the roof as well as features of the interior. These include a printed globe, wooden railings, petitions and a working, finger activated lift. Thirdly the thought given to the interior to make it realistic as possible is a nice touch. These include petitions on the bottom floor, like a real old-fashioned hall, the bust of the mayor's head in the side room and the working lift with control panel detailing beside every door. Lastly the improved minifigure assortment, rather appropriate to the size, is nice at eight minifigures. These include a mayor-(with a familiar torso from a Lego Cuusoo set)-a unique bride minifigure and a photographer.
Now for the slight gripes of the set. Firstly there is a little bit of crude construction as in many sets where it could be avoided. This includes the fact that the second floor does not meet up with the petitions which leaves a rather unfinished looking and gaping hole-though this was okay once it was discovered these were meant to be petitions. Secondly the space at the back of the building leaves a little bit to be desired as the board is left virtually bare. This turns out okay however as the nicely spaced details on the rear of the building make up for this. Thirdly, the lack of any other way for the minifigures to ascend the floors-(no stairs)-is slightly unrealistic and would be nice to see. The lift is a really clever idea still. Lastly the interior could be slightly rethought with the first floor meeting area having only black bricks for the towns people to sit on, the second floor only having the mayor's office and a small receptionist's desk and the top most floor having only a table and chairs, mostly.
Overall this is a worthwhile and standout purchase which is well worth buying and lives up to its price tag. The pieces assortment is nice and still gives good MOC potential with many rare reddish-brown bricks included. The minifigures are great and add to the play experience, although it might be nice to have faces with expression instead of the classic smile. The build seems satisfying and the overall finish and display is worth the effort. Any builder looking for a true town center piece need look no further! "
Now for the really good points. Firstly, the overall scale and size is really pleasing to find as most modular buildings stick to a margin of around two-thousand, three-hundred pieces. It was nice to get a seemingly extended and slightly more complex build out of another one of these great sets without departing from the classic style. Secondly the details and features which make the Town Hall stand out are a real highlight. These include the cleverly created pillars at the face of the model, the flower beds along the front, the clock tower and skylights atop the roof as well as features of the interior. These include a printed globe, wooden railings, petitions and a working, finger activated lift. Thirdly the thought given to the interior to make it realistic as possible is a nice touch. These include petitions on the bottom floor, like a real old-fashioned hall, the bust of the mayor's head in the side room and the working lift with control panel detailing beside every door. Lastly the improved minifigure assortment, rather appropriate to the size, is nice at eight minifigures. These include a mayor-(with a familiar torso from a Lego Cuusoo set)-a unique bride minifigure and a photographer.
Now for the slight gripes of the set. Firstly there is a little bit of crude construction as in many sets where it could be avoided. This includes the fact that the second floor does not meet up with the petitions which leaves a rather unfinished looking and gaping hole-though this was okay once it was discovered these were meant to be petitions. Secondly the space at the back of the building leaves a little bit to be desired as the board is left virtually bare. This turns out okay however as the nicely spaced details on the rear of the building make up for this. Thirdly, the lack of any other way for the minifigures to ascend the floors-(no stairs)-is slightly unrealistic and would be nice to see. The lift is a really clever idea still. Lastly the interior could be slightly rethought with the first floor meeting area having only black bricks for the towns people to sit on, the second floor only having the mayor's office and a small receptionist's desk and the top most floor having only a table and chairs, mostly.
Overall this is a worthwhile and standout purchase which is well worth buying and lives up to its price tag. The pieces assortment is nice and still gives good MOC potential with many rare reddish-brown bricks included. The minifigures are great and add to the play experience, although it might be nice to have faces with expression instead of the classic smile. The build seems satisfying and the overall finish and display is worth the effort. Any builder looking for a true town center piece need look no further! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+4points
4of 4found this review helpful.
Fire Brigade
Fire Brigade
Posted:January 4, 2013
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
A Great Flame In The Modular Line!
" Cheers Lego fans! The Fire Brigade, as is the case with most of the modular line, is a fantastic, beautiful and very playable set. It gives a very decent build which is enjoyable and provides clever as well as fun building techniques. It is a good set to buy if you are looking for a few hours building and a not-to-hard or not-to-easy build. It also comes with some handy fire fighting minifigures which may expand your Lego City collection. The accessories here are also handy and as always, provide good MOC potential. The really nice thing about this set is the nineteen-thirties fire engine and building style, making it utterly unique. This is a worthwhile buy for modular builders in particular as it is utterly unique in almost every aspect!
Now for the good points here. Firstly it is a decently large and detailed model, setting it apart from the fire brigade sets available for younger builders in Lego City. If you are looking for a realistic and convincing model to add to your diorama, this is the best around. Secondly it is the only modular to feature an individual vehicle, the fire engine, and this expands possible play potential as well as giving us a second unique element. Thirdly it contains not just an interior appropriate to fire fighting equipment storage and organisation, but a detailed and well-thought living floor. This includes many fun details that would be nice to see in other modular buildings like a fridge, kitchenette and table-tennis table! Finally it includes some nice coloration and piece arrays such as rare smooth tiles in dark-red and a flexible pipe piece in yellow. These might provide well for builders thinking of creating their own modular buildings!
Now for the slightly bad points. Firstly, although the interior is very nicely done, it is rather bare and could be a bit more thorough. The first level only contains a few tool racks and barrels around the walls and nothing focused more around the engine parking. This can be forgiven by the builder as the exterior is the key however. Secondly it is also a little crude with the finishing of the courtyard at the rear of the building. It is only decorated by a few bright green plates and a selection of smooth tiles in brown. With the gray base plate showing through, it makes it look rather unfinished. Thirdly, when constructing the first section, the base plate tends to bend inwards-upwards, which makes it slightly harder to place elements and make the model lie flat. This is probably because of the large smooth tile used to create the parking for the engine in the center of the board-or it could just be my elements. Finally it is also slightly lacking in detail and remains somewhat crude on the roof section. The roof only bares a water tank and a hatch, which is nicely done but would have been greatly accompanied by, say, a skylight or a cooling vent. It is slightly crude in the way that gaps a left on either side of the 1932 sign, which could have been covered by more detail.
Overall the Fire Brigade is a really nice set and a worthwhile purchase. It has extra value as being part of the modular line and is a must-buy for any collector of these sets. It is a great landmark, unique, a decent build and an exciting gift all rolled in to one package! It is also a clever nostalgia item by referencing the nineteen-thirties, which is a great effort by Lego and is nice to see. Lego fans will no longer have to worry about plastic fires when the Fire Brigade is in town! "
Now for the good points here. Firstly it is a decently large and detailed model, setting it apart from the fire brigade sets available for younger builders in Lego City. If you are looking for a realistic and convincing model to add to your diorama, this is the best around. Secondly it is the only modular to feature an individual vehicle, the fire engine, and this expands possible play potential as well as giving us a second unique element. Thirdly it contains not just an interior appropriate to fire fighting equipment storage and organisation, but a detailed and well-thought living floor. This includes many fun details that would be nice to see in other modular buildings like a fridge, kitchenette and table-tennis table! Finally it includes some nice coloration and piece arrays such as rare smooth tiles in dark-red and a flexible pipe piece in yellow. These might provide well for builders thinking of creating their own modular buildings!
Now for the slightly bad points. Firstly, although the interior is very nicely done, it is rather bare and could be a bit more thorough. The first level only contains a few tool racks and barrels around the walls and nothing focused more around the engine parking. This can be forgiven by the builder as the exterior is the key however. Secondly it is also a little crude with the finishing of the courtyard at the rear of the building. It is only decorated by a few bright green plates and a selection of smooth tiles in brown. With the gray base plate showing through, it makes it look rather unfinished. Thirdly, when constructing the first section, the base plate tends to bend inwards-upwards, which makes it slightly harder to place elements and make the model lie flat. This is probably because of the large smooth tile used to create the parking for the engine in the center of the board-or it could just be my elements. Finally it is also slightly lacking in detail and remains somewhat crude on the roof section. The roof only bares a water tank and a hatch, which is nicely done but would have been greatly accompanied by, say, a skylight or a cooling vent. It is slightly crude in the way that gaps a left on either side of the 1932 sign, which could have been covered by more detail.
Overall the Fire Brigade is a really nice set and a worthwhile purchase. It has extra value as being part of the modular line and is a must-buy for any collector of these sets. It is a great landmark, unique, a decent build and an exciting gift all rolled in to one package! It is also a clever nostalgia item by referencing the nineteen-thirties, which is a great effort by Lego and is nice to see. Lego fans will no longer have to worry about plastic fires when the Fire Brigade is in town! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+2points
2of 2found this review helpful.
Shuttle Expedition
Shuttle Expedition
Posted:December 27, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
Space Is No Longer The Final Frontier!
" Hello Lego fans. Shuttle expedition is an absolutely terrific set and a thoroughly worthwhile purchase. Not only is the money to piece value great, but the model itself is extremely realistic and faithful to the original shuttles used in the N.A.S.A program. The model boosts all the fantastic features of the real space craft and for the first time includes the full tank, which is a real bonus. This makes it even more of a unique purchase as none of the other two models available from Lego city or based on discovery channel included this. This would make really the best gift you could buy for children who love Lego and are interested in space exploration. It is also very fun to play around with and makes for a satisfying build. What makes this model great is how realistic and faithful to the real craft it actually is!
Now down to the many great points-which are to many to entirely list here. Firstly the actual shuttle probe itself is an absolute highlight as it is sleek, light, not to heavy and looks just like the real thing recreated in Lego with a clever use of curved arches. Secondly the functions and play aspects make this fantastic as it includes a working satellite loading arm and a small satellite! This makes for a great display piece as well as play. Another very nice thought is that the module can fit both minifigures unlike most sets and includes printed controls. The stickers in this set are minimal at only about eight overall. The wings also include adjustable flaps and working landing gear. Thirdly the inclusion of the enormous full tank is a real highlight as it is well built and is entirely unique to the set-the many tan brown pieces making up its body only being found in this set. Finally another great feature is the camera jeep and the simple yet effective landing platform which holds the shuttle firmly upright. The astronaut minifigures are also nice additions as their torsos are unique.
Now for the minimal bad points. Firstly the back landing wheels don't have an exterior switch to activate them which makes it slightly more difficult as you have to press down on the actual wheel beams. This really doesn't detract from the image however as it leaves the module unblemished. Secondly the launch pad lacked a bit of detail such as a few more smooth plates to securely lock the shuttle in place. This doesn't matter so much however as the main focus is the craft. Thirdly, the full tank had a strange line of black peg connectors down the right side which didn't seem to serve a purpose and slightly detracted from the appearance. Finally the model contained a few small flood lights which were nice but could have been added to the main launch pad as they were somewhat flimsy and seemed thrown in at the last minute.
Overall the Shuttle Expedition is a fantastic set and contains virtually all the features dedicated set builders and ultimate collectors would want to look for. It is realistic to the actual shuttle and is very playable with terrific features and functions. The build itself is descent and could provide up to a couple of hours construction. Real space fans should experience this amazing set! "
Now down to the many great points-which are to many to entirely list here. Firstly the actual shuttle probe itself is an absolute highlight as it is sleek, light, not to heavy and looks just like the real thing recreated in Lego with a clever use of curved arches. Secondly the functions and play aspects make this fantastic as it includes a working satellite loading arm and a small satellite! This makes for a great display piece as well as play. Another very nice thought is that the module can fit both minifigures unlike most sets and includes printed controls. The stickers in this set are minimal at only about eight overall. The wings also include adjustable flaps and working landing gear. Thirdly the inclusion of the enormous full tank is a real highlight as it is well built and is entirely unique to the set-the many tan brown pieces making up its body only being found in this set. Finally another great feature is the camera jeep and the simple yet effective landing platform which holds the shuttle firmly upright. The astronaut minifigures are also nice additions as their torsos are unique.
Now for the minimal bad points. Firstly the back landing wheels don't have an exterior switch to activate them which makes it slightly more difficult as you have to press down on the actual wheel beams. This really doesn't detract from the image however as it leaves the module unblemished. Secondly the launch pad lacked a bit of detail such as a few more smooth plates to securely lock the shuttle in place. This doesn't matter so much however as the main focus is the craft. Thirdly, the full tank had a strange line of black peg connectors down the right side which didn't seem to serve a purpose and slightly detracted from the appearance. Finally the model contained a few small flood lights which were nice but could have been added to the main launch pad as they were somewhat flimsy and seemed thrown in at the last minute.
Overall the Shuttle Expedition is a fantastic set and contains virtually all the features dedicated set builders and ultimate collectors would want to look for. It is realistic to the actual shuttle and is very playable with terrific features and functions. The build itself is descent and could provide up to a couple of hours construction. Real space fans should experience this amazing set! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
5
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
5
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+5points
5of 5found this review helpful.
Heroic Heroes of the Deep
Heroic Heroes of the Deep
Posted:December 27, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
4
/
5
A Heroic Attempt By Lego.
" Hello again Lego fans. First of all I would like to say that this set is one of the best in the SpongeBob line, despite its size. It is very playable and covers all the fantastic features you would want in a Lego set designed for basic play. Once again it also would be a great gift for budding Lego collectors or builders and fans of the cartoon. It is also very nice as it contains a mix of practical, working functions and interesting pieces, in various colours. This set is one you would want to buy for immersing your children in creative play.
Now down to the main good points. Firstly it has a wonderful and utterly unique collection of minifigures, which are also bright and colourful, making them appealing. These include a new sand-green brick to represent Plankton with a grinning face, SpongeBob in a light and dark blue hero costume with face printing and a unique cape and Patrick with a green cape, yellow costume and a face printed with green goggles. Secondly this set has a nice arrangement of rare and exciting pieces which provide good MOC potential. These include two clear jellyfish pieces, two red flick-fire darts and a dark green R2-D2 torso printed with a hatch. Thirdly we have some fun play functions like flick-fire missiles, which I quite like-(although many people tend to complain about them). Finally we have the nice design which means the model is compact and relatively durable, meaning it won’t break to easily.
Now for the slightly bad points. Even though this is probably one of the best sets in the line, it does contain a few small annoyances. Firstly the boat doesn’t really have any depth and the characters just sit on top of it with no seats. Secondly the missiles are a bit wobbly and tend to either flop or come loose from their sockets. Thirdly the set does not quiet allow appropriate room for minifigures with capes meaning that they sometimes become crinkled. Finally, it lacks a bit of detail and it probably would have been nice to see some studs or other printed tiles in the driver’s seat. But as it is aimed at younger collectors, this is probably deliberate so pieces are not swallowed.
Overall it is a very nice set with great play potential and an exciting array of minifigures and pieces. It is a great item for SpongeBob merchandise collectors and as a gift for smaller children becoming interested in Lego. Sets like this are good production value as they cater for a younger crowd. The real highlights that make the set are the playability and the great pieces. Budding heroes, SpongeBob fans and builders should zero in on this set. "
Now down to the main good points. Firstly it has a wonderful and utterly unique collection of minifigures, which are also bright and colourful, making them appealing. These include a new sand-green brick to represent Plankton with a grinning face, SpongeBob in a light and dark blue hero costume with face printing and a unique cape and Patrick with a green cape, yellow costume and a face printed with green goggles. Secondly this set has a nice arrangement of rare and exciting pieces which provide good MOC potential. These include two clear jellyfish pieces, two red flick-fire darts and a dark green R2-D2 torso printed with a hatch. Thirdly we have some fun play functions like flick-fire missiles, which I quite like-(although many people tend to complain about them). Finally we have the nice design which means the model is compact and relatively durable, meaning it won’t break to easily.
Now for the slightly bad points. Even though this is probably one of the best sets in the line, it does contain a few small annoyances. Firstly the boat doesn’t really have any depth and the characters just sit on top of it with no seats. Secondly the missiles are a bit wobbly and tend to either flop or come loose from their sockets. Thirdly the set does not quiet allow appropriate room for minifigures with capes meaning that they sometimes become crinkled. Finally, it lacks a bit of detail and it probably would have been nice to see some studs or other printed tiles in the driver’s seat. But as it is aimed at younger collectors, this is probably deliberate so pieces are not swallowed.
Overall it is a very nice set with great play potential and an exciting array of minifigures and pieces. It is a great item for SpongeBob merchandise collectors and as a gift for smaller children becoming interested in Lego. Sets like this are good production value as they cater for a younger crowd. The real highlights that make the set are the playability and the great pieces. Budding heroes, SpongeBob fans and builders should zero in on this set. "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
3
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+7points
8of 9found this review helpful.
The Battle of Helm's Deep™
The Battle of Helm's Deep™
Posted:December 26, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
4
/
5
A Set Of Epic Proportions.
" Cheers to all you loyal Lego fans. Finally I have gotten around to reviewing this great product! This is without doubt one of the stars of the Lord of the Rings line and is an essential buy for any Lego collector or Tolkien fan. It contains a nice, though not thoroughly unique minifigure combination and multiple play functions which are great fun for play. This set is also fantastic for a large scale battle diorama or any large scale display pieces. This would make a terrific gift to excite any child or adult. It is also quite expansive and creative, adding to the play experience. Some collectors will know this from buying the fantastic set Attack on Weathertop. It is also quite grand and sometimes dwarfs other Lego sets in comparison. It would be a grand centerpiece to any collection!
Now down to the good aspects. Firstly it contains a large amount of pieces (which is not always the case with licensed sets) and this makes for an interesting build. Secondly it contains a good array of fantastic MOC pieces that include gray, dark-gray, sand-green and brick pieces. I personally built an insanely detailed version of the Hobbit set Riddles for the Ring with these pieces! Thirdly it has some nice details which make it thoroughly thought out and these include the bricked patches on the walls, the tower with the horn at the top, the opening doors and sloping ramp (with a skeleton head hidden beneath it) and a detailed dining hall in the central keep or tower. Finally it contains several nice play functions which include a launching catapult on the battlements, movable bridges and ramps and my personal best, the exploding, flick activated battle wall.
Now down to some of the rather minor bad points. Firstly it contains some slightly annoying slacking on detail such as not enough studs and plates on the rock face around the gate and gaps in the inner area of the keep, just beneath the towers. This leaves the model looking slightly unfinished and somewhat crudely put together. Secondly a big let-down was the exploding battle wall which doesn't really work at all and the pieces just flop to the ground when the lever is flicked. Don't buy the set just for this function! Thirdly some added detail could have been nice with some of Lego's trademark creativity such as some floor tiles and weapons racks in the keep. Finally it would have been great to have a slightly larger wall (yes I know Uruk-Hai army can be bought for this) as it was a bit small to recreate battles and forced collectors to buy the companion set.
Overall this was a nicely planned if only slightly flawed set and is a jewel or a center-piece for any Lord of the Rings collector. It is great for play and would be good entertainment for lazy afternoons as well as providing a satisfying yet casual build. Serious collectors should make sure to experience this fantastic package! "
Now down to the good aspects. Firstly it contains a large amount of pieces (which is not always the case with licensed sets) and this makes for an interesting build. Secondly it contains a good array of fantastic MOC pieces that include gray, dark-gray, sand-green and brick pieces. I personally built an insanely detailed version of the Hobbit set Riddles for the Ring with these pieces! Thirdly it has some nice details which make it thoroughly thought out and these include the bricked patches on the walls, the tower with the horn at the top, the opening doors and sloping ramp (with a skeleton head hidden beneath it) and a detailed dining hall in the central keep or tower. Finally it contains several nice play functions which include a launching catapult on the battlements, movable bridges and ramps and my personal best, the exploding, flick activated battle wall.
Now down to some of the rather minor bad points. Firstly it contains some slightly annoying slacking on detail such as not enough studs and plates on the rock face around the gate and gaps in the inner area of the keep, just beneath the towers. This leaves the model looking slightly unfinished and somewhat crudely put together. Secondly a big let-down was the exploding battle wall which doesn't really work at all and the pieces just flop to the ground when the lever is flicked. Don't buy the set just for this function! Thirdly some added detail could have been nice with some of Lego's trademark creativity such as some floor tiles and weapons racks in the keep. Finally it would have been great to have a slightly larger wall (yes I know Uruk-Hai army can be bought for this) as it was a bit small to recreate battles and forced collectors to buy the companion set.
Overall this was a nicely planned if only slightly flawed set and is a jewel or a center-piece for any Lord of the Rings collector. It is great for play and would be good entertainment for lazy afternoons as well as providing a satisfying yet casual build. Serious collectors should make sure to experience this fantastic package! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+2points
2of 2found this review helpful.
Isla de la Muerta
Isla de la Muerta
Posted:December 26, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
A Real Pirate's Treasure!
" Hello Lego fans! This is my seventh review, although I actually bought this set quite a while ago, as I did not get round to reviewing it. This is the only Pirates of the Caribbean set I actually own, but it was very worthwhile. The pieces it comes with are very versatile and come in nicely thought out colors. The minifigure collection is quite superb with every minifigure included being unique-(for those of you wondering Jack Sparrow has a grinning face on one side of his head and a skeleton one on the other). It is also very good for simple play and building and would make a good set for builders from seven upwards. This is a set fans of the films would be wise to begin collecting with.
Now down to the really nice points. Firstly the minifigure combination is a star attraction with all being unique. If Lego produced some more sets similar to this they would probably sell even better than they already do! This is a great place to kick-start your character menagerie with Barbossa in captain uniform, red dressed Elizabeth Swann, a switchable faced Jack Sparrow (always a nice feature) and a skeleton Barbossa. Barbossa is the star character in this set. Secondly, the good arrangement of pieces which include several gold coins, goblets, gold bars, a gem and an apple is nice to see, as well as being good MOC potential. Accessories include two scabbards and Jack's compass. Finally, another nice point is that it contains fun play functions which are always good to see in smaller sets like this such as a collapsing mast and spinning rock face to conceal skeleton Barbossa.
Now down to the insignificant gripes about the set. Firstly it might have been nice to see a bit more detail in some areas of the set such as the back-side of the spinning rock face and the sea water area. These could have included a few more gold bars, some coins, goblets, golden crystals and some rocks in the water. Secondly, a slightly more overall finish might have been added to some areas of the set like the stone arch to give it a slightly more completed look. This would entail a few more dark grey bricks to recreate craggy rocks. Finally, there wer some tiny issues with objects like the scabbards. The black scabbard didn't quite fit over skeleton Barbossa's shoulder and was constantly loose. Another slight flaw was that the minifigure of Elizabeth Swann didn't greatly resemble the character the way the other minifigures did.But overall the flaws were insignificant to the experience.
Overall this is a fun and worthwhile set that is great for fans and collectors to start with. Novice and budding builders would do well to begin here as well as fans looking for a more casual afternoon activity. This is a nice set for play and would be good as a toy for children to create play scenarios together from their favourite scenes or to simply imagine their own. Pirates fans should get their hands on this little treasure trove! "
Now down to the really nice points. Firstly the minifigure combination is a star attraction with all being unique. If Lego produced some more sets similar to this they would probably sell even better than they already do! This is a great place to kick-start your character menagerie with Barbossa in captain uniform, red dressed Elizabeth Swann, a switchable faced Jack Sparrow (always a nice feature) and a skeleton Barbossa. Barbossa is the star character in this set. Secondly, the good arrangement of pieces which include several gold coins, goblets, gold bars, a gem and an apple is nice to see, as well as being good MOC potential. Accessories include two scabbards and Jack's compass. Finally, another nice point is that it contains fun play functions which are always good to see in smaller sets like this such as a collapsing mast and spinning rock face to conceal skeleton Barbossa.
Now down to the insignificant gripes about the set. Firstly it might have been nice to see a bit more detail in some areas of the set such as the back-side of the spinning rock face and the sea water area. These could have included a few more gold bars, some coins, goblets, golden crystals and some rocks in the water. Secondly, a slightly more overall finish might have been added to some areas of the set like the stone arch to give it a slightly more completed look. This would entail a few more dark grey bricks to recreate craggy rocks. Finally, there wer some tiny issues with objects like the scabbards. The black scabbard didn't quite fit over skeleton Barbossa's shoulder and was constantly loose. Another slight flaw was that the minifigure of Elizabeth Swann didn't greatly resemble the character the way the other minifigures did.But overall the flaws were insignificant to the experience.
Overall this is a fun and worthwhile set that is great for fans and collectors to start with. Novice and budding builders would do well to begin here as well as fans looking for a more casual afternoon activity. This is a nice set for play and would be good as a toy for children to create play scenarios together from their favourite scenes or to simply imagine their own. Pirates fans should get their hands on this little treasure trove! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
-1point
0of 1found this review helpful.
Krusty Krab Adventures
Krusty Krab Adventures
Posted:December 21, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
3
/
5
Not Quite The Secret Patty Formula.
" Hello Lego Fans. Like set number 3818-Bikini Bottom Undersea Party-please do not feel perturbed in buying this set because of the rating. Again it is merely saying that this is a set really suited to a younger audience. This set is the kind of construction you would give to a budding builder or a gift for parents to give to children who might just be starting out with Lego kits. As with any SpongeBob set, this would be a good purchase for fans of the cartoon as well as Lego. Sadly, this is really the lowest point of the SpongeBob construction line and for potential buyers, is not the one to go for first. This is more the kind of set to buy to complete a collection.
Now for the good points of the set. Firstly, as usual with SpongeBob sets, it has a good assortment of unique minifigures, though perhaps not so good as the other sets. It includes SpongeBob with a unique, if not slightly creepy, grinning face. Then it includes a rather conked out looking Patrick and Mr Krabs with another fanatical smile. Secondly, it has the only version of the Patty Wagon, which is one of the highlights of the set. Annoyingly however, the wagon does not contain an interior-only a steering wheel. Thirdly it includes a nice menagerie of accessories including two bank notes, two patties, two goblets and a table. Finally, it has an appealing assortment of colored elements in red, brown, black, cream and white. As usual this is good MOC potential.
Now for the main frowns of the set. Firstly and foremost, as seems the case with the more recent line of SpongeBob, the interior of the Krusty Krab is nastily lacking in much detail. It only includes a cash register brick (with a sticker), a small grill (with a sticker), a detachable table (but no chairs) and a small vault. Secondly it is rather small and doesn't provide to much play potential as it is very sparse and includes no practical functions (unlike most of the sets). Thirdly it doesn't include any gadgets (I don't understand why it mentions gadgets in the blurb). Lastly it scimps on exterior detail where the other, original model did it best. Sadly it includes no shell sign or even rubbish bin.
Overall this is a rather displeasing set and for any potential collectors should not be at the top of the list. It still serves as a great item for collectors and fans of the cartoons and as a Lego product, is still a great item to have. This would be good set for parents to get as a starter to their child's SpongeBob or Lego collection. Not quite the secret formula I was looking for in a set, but worthwhile for collectors to get their hands on. "
Now for the good points of the set. Firstly, as usual with SpongeBob sets, it has a good assortment of unique minifigures, though perhaps not so good as the other sets. It includes SpongeBob with a unique, if not slightly creepy, grinning face. Then it includes a rather conked out looking Patrick and Mr Krabs with another fanatical smile. Secondly, it has the only version of the Patty Wagon, which is one of the highlights of the set. Annoyingly however, the wagon does not contain an interior-only a steering wheel. Thirdly it includes a nice menagerie of accessories including two bank notes, two patties, two goblets and a table. Finally, it has an appealing assortment of colored elements in red, brown, black, cream and white. As usual this is good MOC potential.
Now for the main frowns of the set. Firstly and foremost, as seems the case with the more recent line of SpongeBob, the interior of the Krusty Krab is nastily lacking in much detail. It only includes a cash register brick (with a sticker), a small grill (with a sticker), a detachable table (but no chairs) and a small vault. Secondly it is rather small and doesn't provide to much play potential as it is very sparse and includes no practical functions (unlike most of the sets). Thirdly it doesn't include any gadgets (I don't understand why it mentions gadgets in the blurb). Lastly it scimps on exterior detail where the other, original model did it best. Sadly it includes no shell sign or even rubbish bin.
Overall this is a rather displeasing set and for any potential collectors should not be at the top of the list. It still serves as a great item for collectors and fans of the cartoons and as a Lego product, is still a great item to have. This would be good set for parents to get as a starter to their child's SpongeBob or Lego collection. Not quite the secret formula I was looking for in a set, but worthwhile for collectors to get their hands on. "
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
3
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
3
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
Share:
+12points
12of 12found this review helpful.
Bikini Bottom Undersea Party
Bikini Bottom Undersea Party
Posted:December 21, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
3
/
5
Who Lives In A Pineapple Under The Sea?
" Hello Lego Fans! I would like to begin by saying that the overall rating on this review is by no means an indication for other builders as to whether they should buy this set. It merely means that this set is primarily suited for younger or budding builders. This set is also best suited to ardent SpongeBob fans as it contains many brightly colored pieces and elements that would be best suited to representing a cartoon. But like any other set it has many good points. I also believe like any Lego product it has few faults.
Now down to the good aspects of the set. First and foremost it is just about the best set you could get as far as play experience goes and it would be fabulous for parents who are looking for gifts that will genuinely entertain their children. It also contains many amusing play functions such as a see-saw which can catapult anything from a cake to Gary. It also includes a fun spinning merry-go-round and a spinning DJ bar. These will make it fun for younger builders to play with. Another fantastic feature for this set, a benchmark for all SpongeBob sets, is the unique minifigure collection. It includes a grinning Spongebob wearing a flowered necklace, Squidward also wearing a flowered necklace, Mrs Puff (a very rare figure only appearing elsewhere in Mrs Puff's Boating School), DJ Patrick with gkasses and a slightly altered Gary. Kids will love collecting their favourite minifigures to act out the cartoons. A final landmark point here is that it finally comes with Squidward's house, which hasn't been seen since the first wave of sets!
Now down to the bad points. The two main gripes here are that the set comes with a third addition of SpongeBob's pineapple when we have already had two other sets featured around it. The other gripe is that it does come with a house for Squidward, but no re-release of Patrick's rock which also has not appeared since the first wave. Another slightly annoying aspect is the lack of detail in the pineapple. It contains virtually no furniture and only a few sticker pictures. What it does include are SpongBob's bed (with concealed catapult) and Gary's bowl. There is also a nicely thought, but rather simple shelf on the wall containg nothing but a carrot sprout in a one times one tube! I have not seen that in the cartoons. A final problem with the set, though not really a big one, is that due to the many loose pieces it is rather hard to store and display, and can be difficult to set up. But overall that is made up by the excellent play experience.
Overall this is a great set for play and entertaining the kids. It would be a great gift idea for younger, budding Lego collectors and an excellent collectible for any SpongeBob fan. The brightly colored pieces and unique minifigures will be great MOC potential. It is overall a nicely packaged set for younger collectors and a unique, worthwhile set. Get your hands on this one SpongBob fans! "
Now down to the good aspects of the set. First and foremost it is just about the best set you could get as far as play experience goes and it would be fabulous for parents who are looking for gifts that will genuinely entertain their children. It also contains many amusing play functions such as a see-saw which can catapult anything from a cake to Gary. It also includes a fun spinning merry-go-round and a spinning DJ bar. These will make it fun for younger builders to play with. Another fantastic feature for this set, a benchmark for all SpongeBob sets, is the unique minifigure collection. It includes a grinning Spongebob wearing a flowered necklace, Squidward also wearing a flowered necklace, Mrs Puff (a very rare figure only appearing elsewhere in Mrs Puff's Boating School), DJ Patrick with gkasses and a slightly altered Gary. Kids will love collecting their favourite minifigures to act out the cartoons. A final landmark point here is that it finally comes with Squidward's house, which hasn't been seen since the first wave of sets!
Now down to the bad points. The two main gripes here are that the set comes with a third addition of SpongeBob's pineapple when we have already had two other sets featured around it. The other gripe is that it does come with a house for Squidward, but no re-release of Patrick's rock which also has not appeared since the first wave. Another slightly annoying aspect is the lack of detail in the pineapple. It contains virtually no furniture and only a few sticker pictures. What it does include are SpongBob's bed (with concealed catapult) and Gary's bowl. There is also a nicely thought, but rather simple shelf on the wall containg nothing but a carrot sprout in a one times one tube! I have not seen that in the cartoons. A final problem with the set, though not really a big one, is that due to the many loose pieces it is rather hard to store and display, and can be difficult to set up. But overall that is made up by the excellent play experience.
Overall this is a great set for play and entertaining the kids. It would be a great gift idea for younger, budding Lego collectors and an excellent collectible for any SpongeBob fan. The brightly colored pieces and unique minifigures will be great MOC potential. It is overall a nicely packaged set for younger collectors and a unique, worthwhile set. Get your hands on this one SpongBob fans! "
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
3
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
Share:
+3points
9of 15found this review helpful.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
Posted:November 21, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
Towering Above The Rest!
" The Tower Bridge is a terrific set and as said by other reviewers is great value for money. Here in Australia at 400 dollars for 4295 pieces, it is well priced and as I got it on sale, a really good buy for 300 dollars. It is worth adding to any hardcore Lego fan's collection and is great center piece to your Lego City or Modular Buildings collection. It goes very well in a diorama mixed with sets like the Cafe Corner and Fire Brigade.
It is also a beautiful display piece and a descent, time taking build. This is a set for patient builders and probably only for someone who can take repitition. It is also a good set to work on as a team or as a family project due to it's repeating structure.
Now down to the most notable good points. Firstly the set is very well priced and with a descent piece count at 4295 bricks. It is also very good for those wanting to collect tan colored bricks and slopes for a large build. The enormity of tan bricks is also good MOC potential. Another little bonus is that it comes with two unique printed shields which is also great MOC potential and is a nice feature without stickers! The little vehicles (dump truck, green automobile, black taxi and red double-decked bus) are also nice features as they give a good idea of the scale. A final good point is that the bridge actually opens and that make sit a faithful and more versatile display. It is not entirely inanimate, making it more fun to play with!
Now down to the few bad points. The points here are more regarding to the build rather than the finished product. The main gripe is that the build is quite repedative and this can make it quite draining to build over several hours. In effect the set is really building the same section twice as the two towers and deck are exactly the same. This is alright in the long run however as it cannot be helped so as to be faithful to the source material. Apart from the building problem the only other gripe is the finished look. Although it displays very nicely, the ends of the deck could have been topped off nicely with the arches on the real bridge. The deck is also slightly flimsy but only if tapped. Lastly it might have been nice to include a few more vehicles as it looks somewhat sparse.
Overall the Tower Bridge is a very nice set and a beautiful display piece. It is a very descent build and price and is definetely for loyal and ardent collectors. Many hours and probably some patience is needed to construct this model. It is a great center piece to any collection and is a jewel for modular collecters. At being the third largest set in the world, this is a must have for Lego fans! "
It is also a beautiful display piece and a descent, time taking build. This is a set for patient builders and probably only for someone who can take repitition. It is also a good set to work on as a team or as a family project due to it's repeating structure.
Now down to the most notable good points. Firstly the set is very well priced and with a descent piece count at 4295 bricks. It is also very good for those wanting to collect tan colored bricks and slopes for a large build. The enormity of tan bricks is also good MOC potential. Another little bonus is that it comes with two unique printed shields which is also great MOC potential and is a nice feature without stickers! The little vehicles (dump truck, green automobile, black taxi and red double-decked bus) are also nice features as they give a good idea of the scale. A final good point is that the bridge actually opens and that make sit a faithful and more versatile display. It is not entirely inanimate, making it more fun to play with!
Now down to the few bad points. The points here are more regarding to the build rather than the finished product. The main gripe is that the build is quite repedative and this can make it quite draining to build over several hours. In effect the set is really building the same section twice as the two towers and deck are exactly the same. This is alright in the long run however as it cannot be helped so as to be faithful to the source material. Apart from the building problem the only other gripe is the finished look. Although it displays very nicely, the ends of the deck could have been topped off nicely with the arches on the real bridge. The deck is also slightly flimsy but only if tapped. Lastly it might have been nice to include a few more vehicles as it looks somewhat sparse.
Overall the Tower Bridge is a very nice set and a beautiful display piece. It is a very descent build and price and is definetely for loyal and ardent collectors. Many hours and probably some patience is needed to construct this model. It is a great center piece to any collection and is a jewel for modular collecters. At being the third largest set in the world, this is a must have for Lego fans! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
4
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+3points
5of 7found this review helpful.
The Mines of Moria™
The Mines of Moria™
Posted:August 16, 2012
DrCockroach
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Overall:
5
/
5
They Have Got A Cave Troll!
" Cheers peoples. This is my third L.O.T.R purchase and unusually also my third build. It is a terrific set and I was really excited about buying this one as it contained four members of the fellowship, a cave troll and two moria orcs. It also looked like a great set to play with as it had many exciting functions such as the twin falling pillars (for those of you who might have thought there was only one) a pop out treasure chest, crumbling door arch, Balin's exploding tomb and the trapdoor in the well! It is a great and essential edition to any L.O.T.R fan collection. It also nicely completes the fellowship with six out of seven minifigures being unique.
The really good points are listed here. First of all the thumbs up goes to the fantasic minifigure combination which includes three unique figures from the fellowship (Legolas, Boromir and Pippin). Another really nice feature is the clever and effective (contrary to popular belief) catapults and fling features in the set which include the collapsing pillars and door arch. Another good feature is that it comes with a few nice accessories for your collection which include a bow, sword, dagger, Uruk-hai shield and a set of Heroica weapons which provide good M.O.C potential. Finally the the reversible minifigure heads are a really nice touch for making an autnentic scene (even Gimli has one behind his beard). This set is definetely up their with Attack at Weathertop.
Now here are some of the small bad points which are only minor. Firstly some points of the construction are slighlty insecure and there are uneccasary gaps exposed where they could be filled by bricks. Some of these points are the back of the pillared tear with the bookcase and chest which has several gaps in the bottom. There are also two holes on either side of the middle raised section. This slighlty comprimises the look and secureness of the set. Secondly some of the details are a little scant and some details could be added to improve the appearance. Some of these points are the door arch which randomly has a few one times one and one times two tiles scattered here and there which is authentic, but a few more could be added to make the detail slighlty better looking. Also the tiles are few and far betwen and mostly on one side with the well making it only so good from one side. Lastly the stickers (having over 30 of them) are a liitle annoying and unusually this is the only one out of the five L.O.T.R sets I have bought that has them. Luckily the slighlt badder sides are all structual and are easy to forego.
Overall this is a very nice set and a worthwhille purchase, especially for L.O.T.R fans. If you would like to complete the fellowship and collect some extra unique minifigures as well this is an essential purchase. This is also a fun set to build and provides a nice and enjoyable build. Perfect also for emerging builders and casual collecters. A very much worthwhile purchase! "
The really good points are listed here. First of all the thumbs up goes to the fantasic minifigure combination which includes three unique figures from the fellowship (Legolas, Boromir and Pippin). Another really nice feature is the clever and effective (contrary to popular belief) catapults and fling features in the set which include the collapsing pillars and door arch. Another good feature is that it comes with a few nice accessories for your collection which include a bow, sword, dagger, Uruk-hai shield and a set of Heroica weapons which provide good M.O.C potential. Finally the the reversible minifigure heads are a really nice touch for making an autnentic scene (even Gimli has one behind his beard). This set is definetely up their with Attack at Weathertop.
Now here are some of the small bad points which are only minor. Firstly some points of the construction are slighlty insecure and there are uneccasary gaps exposed where they could be filled by bricks. Some of these points are the back of the pillared tear with the bookcase and chest which has several gaps in the bottom. There are also two holes on either side of the middle raised section. This slighlty comprimises the look and secureness of the set. Secondly some of the details are a little scant and some details could be added to improve the appearance. Some of these points are the door arch which randomly has a few one times one and one times two tiles scattered here and there which is authentic, but a few more could be added to make the detail slighlty better looking. Also the tiles are few and far betwen and mostly on one side with the well making it only so good from one side. Lastly the stickers (having over 30 of them) are a liitle annoying and unusually this is the only one out of the five L.O.T.R sets I have bought that has them. Luckily the slighlt badder sides are all structual and are easy to forego.
Overall this is a very nice set and a worthwhille purchase, especially for L.O.T.R fans. If you would like to complete the fellowship and collect some extra unique minifigures as well this is an essential purchase. This is also a fun set to build and provides a nice and enjoyable build. Perfect also for emerging builders and casual collecters. A very much worthwhile purchase! "
I would recommend this to a friend!
From: Melbourne
From:
Australia
Age:
14-18
years old
Customer Type:
LEGO Fan
Building Experience:
Advanced LEGO builder
Play Experience (Optional):
5
/
5
Value for Money (Optional):
4
/
5
Level of Difficulty:
Very Easy
Very Easy
Very Challenging
I would recommend this to a friend!
Share:
+45points
50of 55found this review helpful.