LEGO Ninjago Dragon Stone Shrine Set Review
The LEGO Ninjago Dragon Stone Shrine set (71819) is a visually striking and intricate building set that offers an immersive and engaging building experience. However, upon closer examination, certain aspects of the set left me feeling underwhelmed. In this detailed review, I will delve into the pros and cons of the Dragon Stone Shrine set, providing a comprehensive analysis for LEGO enthusiasts and potential buyers.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Dragon Stone Shrine set comes in an impressive box, adorned with captivating artwork that sets the tone for an exciting building adventure. Inside the box, the pieces are neatly organized into numbered bags, making the building process more manageable. The instruction manual is well-designed and provides clear, step-by-step instructions, ensuring that even novice builders can successfully assemble the set.
Building Experience
The building process of the Dragon Stone Shrine is both enjoyable and challenging. The set consists of over 1,000 pieces, offering a satisfying level of complexity without becoming overly daunting. The intricate details and unique architectural elements make the build engaging and rewarding. However, some of the smaller pieces can be fiddly and difficult to handle, especially for younger builders.
Design and Features
The completed Dragon Stone Shrine is a sight to behold. The structure is visually stunning, featuring a majestic dragon statue, intricate carvings, and vibrant colors. The set also includes several minifigures, including ninjas, samurai warriors, and a dragon, adding to the playability and storytelling potential of the set.
One of the standout features of the set is the hidden chamber, which can be accessed by pulling a lever. This secret compartment adds an element of surprise and discovery, encouraging imaginative play. Additionally, the set includes several interactive elements, such as a spinning dragon head and a trap door, which enhance the play experience.
Areas for Improvement
While the Dragon Stone Shrine set has many positive aspects, there are a few areas where it could be improved. One minor issue is the lack of stability in certain sections of the structure. Some parts feel flimsy and prone to falling apart, which can be frustrating during play or when moving the set.
Another point of criticism is the repetitive nature of some of the building steps. Certain sections require the construction of multiple identical modules, which can become tedious and monotonous. This repetitiveness could have been minimized to maintain a higher level of engagement throughout the building process.
Overall Assessment
In conclusion, the LEGO Ninjago Dragon Stone Shrine set offers an enjoyable and challenging building experience, resulting in a visually stunning display piece. The intricate details, hidden compartments, and interactive elements add to the playability and storytelling potential of the set. However, some areas for improvement, such as stability issues and repetitive building steps, prevent it from reaching its full potential.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
Recommendation
I would recommend the LEGO Ninjago Dragon Stone Shrine set to LEGO enthusiasts and fans of the Ninjago theme. The set is suitable for builders aged 9 and above and offers a rewarding building experience. However, younger builders may require assistance with some of the more complex steps.
For those seeking a visually impressive and feature-rich LEGO set, the Dragon Stone Shrine is a solid choice. However, if stability and a completely engaging building experience are top priorities, there may be other sets that better meet those needs.