I’ve some excellent news and a few unhealthy information for retro players. The excellent news is that LEGO has launched an superior set that re-creates the traditional SEGA Genesis controller (see it at LEGO Store). It even homes an extremely cool Sonic the Hedgehog easter egg. That’s the excellent news. The unhealthy information is, it’s solely obtainable between now and September 17, and to get this set, you could have to spend $130+ at the LEGO Store.
That’s as a result of the LEGO SEGA Genesis Controller set is a Present With Buy. GWP units are typically smaller units that aren’t obtainable to buy individually. They’re solely obtainable by shopping for a specific set or reaching a sure value threshold at the LEGO Retailer. The edge right here is $130, however I examined it and fortunately a $129.99 set additionally works. Nonetheless, it doesn’t apply to preorders, solely to in-stock units. It’s additionally price highlighting that this set can be solely obtainable whereas provides final. I’ve seen many GWP units promote out properly earlier than their finish date.
Listed below are some set concepts to rack up your LEGO Retailer complete:
The LEGO SEGA Genesis Controller set (say that 5 instances quick) is comprised of 260 items and aimed toward the 18+ age class, making it a LEGO set for adults. It’s meant for show reasonably than play (therefore the 18+ age designation). It comes with a buildable stand and appears just about similar to the controller you keep in mind enjoying Genesis on.
On the again of the controller is a microscale scene from Sonic the Hedgehog. It’s a cleverly designed 2D view of Sonic rolling by a loop in the Inexperienced Hill Zone. It additionally comes with regional stickers to embellish the face of the controller.
To get this Genesis GWP, you may spend $130 on a single set, or on a number of units that add up to that quantity. Above, I’ve gone forward and highlighted some units you might be concerned with for those who’re a SEGA Genesis fan. If you’d like extra choices, be at liberty to peruse the LEGO Retailer’s full catalog here.
A few of the finest retro gaming units are primarily based on Nintendo. There’s an superior Mairo & Yoshi set that I put collectively for a We Construct article that prices $129.99, precisely sufficient to get you the free GWP. It’s my favourite LEGO set that I personal, and I’ve it sitting proper right here on my desk.
There are additionally some cool Sonic-themed units you may choose up to get the controller. As an illustration, shopping for the Shadow the Hedgehog bust, plus the Sonic Command Truck, places you over the $130 mark.
Sadly, preorders do not rely towards the $130, so the LEGO Sport Boy is a no-go for it. Neither is the LEGO Willy Wonka set, which comes out the day after the Genesis controller GWP goes away. Nonetheless, if the controller stays in inventory, you will give you the option to get it with LEGO Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship, if that is a set you have had an eye fixed (patch) on. Mainly, as with all issues, do no matter is sensible for you.
Chris Reed is a commerce editor and offers skilled for IGN. He additionally runs IGN’s board sport and LEGO protection. You may observe him on Bluesky.

