"Adult's First LEGO Buy: Mario Set, No Regrets"

As a practical person, I usually focus my spending on essentials and the occasional video game on sale. However, last year marked a departure from my usual habits when I finally decided to indulge in something as seemingly frivolous as a LEGO set. Growing up, I loved building LEGO sets, but as an adult, the high cost had always deterred me. It was the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant, priced at under $50 since October of last year, that finally swayed me. I convinced myself that my desk could use a new "potted plant."

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

Lowest Price

• Includes: 540 pieces, with adjustable pose.
• $59.99 save 20% - $47.95 at Amazon
• $59.99 save 20% - $47.99 at Walmart

My interest in this set was piqued after reading IGN's review of the Piranha Plant build. Being a long-time fan of the Mario franchise, this set seemed like the perfect way to showcase my affection for the series. While LEGO's botanical line offers beautiful flower sets, none capture the whimsical yet slightly menacing charm of the Piranha Plant.

My LEGO Piranha Plant

Now that I've built the set, I'm thrilled to have it on my desk. It transports me to the Mushroom Kingdom, where I imagine tending to my little potted Piranha Plant during work hours. The building process was enjoyable and challenging enough to keep me engaged throughout an afternoon. This is currently my only LEGO Nintendo set, but the experience has me considering adding more to my collection.

See more Mario LEGO sets

The Mighty Bowser

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Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi

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Super Mario NES

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Mario Kart Yoshi Bike

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How Much Are You Willing to Spend on a LEGO Set You Love?

LEGO sets, especially those aimed at adults, can be quite expensive, with new releases often exceeding $200. It's easy to get carried away and spend more than intended on these delightful creations. For me, the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant, priced under $50, was a justifiable indulgence. The hours spent building it and the daily joy it brings me are well worth the cost. While I believe the happiness it provides is worth more than $50, that's the limit I set for myself.

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