With inspiration from numerous movies, games and TV shows, LEGO® sets have connective stories woven into them. But far more exciting and long-running narratives can be found in original LEGO themes and these span decades. Regarding original themes they fall into three camps: ‘In/out’ such as Ultra Agents or Monster Fighters and ‘Big Bang’ such as Legends of CHIMA or DREAMZzz. Finally ‘Evergreen’ describes LEGO City and NINJAGO. Although none of these themes are supported by established worlds, stories and characters, that hasn’t stopped them from featuring familiar faces and fun Easter Eggs.
Beyond the usual Castle, Pirates and Classic Space, some themes from the 90s still command a vague interest today. One of the early story-led themes was all about adventure. LEGO Adventurers began in 1998 with an expedition to Egypt. This was followed by trips to the Jungle, a dino-filled land and the Orient. Although some of the characters awkwardly changed names, they remain instantly recognisable. So much so they have made a return, 25 years on.
The three main characters from the Adventurers theme were Johnny Thunder, Dr. Kilroy and Pippin Reed. Johnny has previously made appearances in a set inspired by The LEGO Movie and as part of the Collectible Minifigures. But the gang has truly been reunited thanks to the most recent addition to the Modular Building Collection, an Ideas Train set and the new LEGO City Jungle Explorers sets.
The National History Museum modular is the perfect place for the legendary explorers to meet up. This highly detailed building is curated by a wise old gentleman, who has a passing resemblance to Dr Kilroy. Although he’s lost his Pith Helmet hat, his handlebar moustache remains. It’s only fitting that Dr. Kilroy works in a museum as it’s the perfect place to showcase some of his treasures.
Dr Kilroy’s arrival coincided with the return of Pippin Reed. Thanks to the LEGO Ideas Orient Express train, Pippin became the second of the original Adventurers to make a comeback. Although listed as the ‘Writer’ Pippin is namechecked in the set’s instructions.
This Summer, the legendary trio has been completed thanks to the new LEGO City sub-theme – Jungle Explorers. As well as introducing several ace new animal figures, the expedition to research them is being led by a familiar-looking explorer. Johnny Thunder is one of those original LEGO characters most LEGO fans know. The character has been updated to reflect modern LEGO Minifigures. So he’s sporting a new hat but is still wearing an explorer’s shirt and red neck scarf.
On the subject of legends, the museum also features exhibits which are inspired by past LEGO sets including Castle, Pirates and Classic Space. Although this isn’t a full on review of the Natural History Museum set, it’s a wonderful build. I love all the little details and element use to create them. This is especially true for the exhibits found within the museum. The LEGO Icons Natural History Museum, LEGO Ideas Orient Express and LEGO City Jungle Explorers sets are all available.
The LEGO Group provided some of the sets, upon request, for this feature. The thoughts within this feature are those of BricksFanz.com and do not reflect those of the LEGO Group. Providing a set for free does not guarantee a favourable opinion of the set.
Trackbacks/Pingbacks