Video game fans of all ages were in such a delight when LEGO announced the Nintendo NES set earlier this week. Not only are they able to collect a novelty item based on the iconic Japanese video game console, they get to build it from scratch as well. I mean, who doesn’t love LEGOs?
The thing is that the set will only be out by August, and that means you still have some time to kill before then. So if you’re looking to scratch that itch with other gaming console collectibles that are buildable and even ‘playable’, then we have several recommendations for you. Plus, we think these are definitely must-have items for gamers and collectors alike, especially if you’re a fan of the classic consoles from the late 80s to 90s era.
Sony Playstation ⅖ scale model kit by Bandai Spirits
This miniature model kit of the original Sony Playstation (PS1) was released as recently as March 2020, as part of the Best Hit Chronicle line from Bandai Spirits. Now, you may be thinking that this is merely an easy build of the console but we can assure you that isn’t the case.
This PS1 kit replicates the details of almost every crucial component that makes up the first generation Sony video game console and its accessories. Speaking of the latter, the package also includes parts to build a controller, a memory card, and even a miniature compact disc that you can place in the console.
Each part snaps together without requiring any form of adhesive to keep them in place. The whole point is to be able to ‘open up’ certain parts to show off each and every component of the console that you’ve painstakingly built.
Like the gunpla products from Bandai, you could technically complete the kit without needing to paint certain parts. But surely you wouldn’t want to leave important details out of your awesome build, right? Also included are decals of the Playstation branding for the finishing touches.
(Source: Bandai)
Sega Saturn ⅖ scale model kit by Bandai Spirits
The second kit released as part of the Best Hit Chronicle line is none other than the Sega Saturn console. Granted, it wasn’t popular in Malaysia and was mostly outshined by the Sony Playstation – a newcomer to the console wars back in the day – but its popularity among Japanese fans was enough to warrant a ⅖ scale model kit by Bandai Spirits.
Since the Saturn is part of the same series as the Playstation kit, you can expect the same level of attention to detail for each and every component of the console. Alongside it is a controller and a game disc replica included as part of the package.
(Source: Bandai)
Transformers x Playstation Optimus Prime by Takara Tomy
Yes, you read that right. One fine day some executive in Takara Tomy – the toy company responsible for producing Transformers toys in Japan, among others – decided that it was a good idea to have Autobot leader Optimus Prime transform into a 90s video game console.
And surprisingly, it turned out pretty well.
The PS1 Optimus Prime was released in 2015, as part of a collaboration between Takara Tomy and Sony Playstation to celebrate the console’s then 20th anniversary. The transformable figure isn’t 1-to-1 in terms of scale when in its console form (which would’ve been amazing, by the way) and would fit nicely on your palm.
Also included is an attachable PS1 controller accessory, which could also function as Prime’s weapon.
(Source: Takara Tomy)
Transformers x Sega Genesis Megatron by Takara Tomy
The Autobot leader wouldn’t be complete without his archnemesis Megatron. In actuality, this figure was released earlier than Optimus Prime, in November of 2014.
Instead of having the Decepticon leader having an alt-mode that is more appropriate to rival the PS1 (either the Sega Saturn or Nintendo 64), Megatron transforms into the memorable 1988 Sega Mega Drive (aka Genesis in the US) video game console.
Yes. Megatron is a Mega Drive. It just had to happen.
Like his Autobot nemesis, Megatron transforms into a miniature-sized video game console in the same scale. Included with the figure is a controller accessory and even a game cartridge that can be attached to its chest in both robot and console mode
(Source: Takara Tomy)
These are our recommendations for the next best classic gaming console-related collectibles to add to your collection, aside from the LEGO Nintendo NES set. In terms of availability, the Bandai model kits are still widely available in most local hobby shops at this time. However, you may need to do a bit of digging if you wish to seek out the Transformers toys. With some luck, you could potentially score a pre-loved copy or even a mint version for the latter.
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