In a world where many LEGO® ‘fans’ are obsessed with holes in helmets and the lack of print on legs, some amazing sets from original themes are being overlooked. I’ve always had a soft spot for LEGO sets from themes unofficially dubbed ‘Big Bang’ or ‘in/out’. In basic terms, themes are not based on third-party IPs. The current ‘Big Bang’ is LEGO DREAMZzz, which pits a gang of creative kids who help defend the Dream Realms from nightmarish forces. I’ve finally got round to building one of the recent LEGO DREAMZzz releases and it’s outstanding. Here’s a closer look at the amazing LEGO DREAMZzz set, Mateo’s Spray Paint Truck.
Product Details
Set Name: Mateo’s Spray Paint Truck | Set Number: 71499 | Pieces: 929 | Theme: DREAMZzz
Number of Bags: Bags x 5 | Instructions: Paper booklet + Builder App | Sticker: sheet x 1 | Minifigures: Mateo, Cooper, Mr. Oz, One and D-Shock
RRP: £89.99/99.99€/$99.99/149.99AUD/129.99CAD
Availability: LEGO Stores, LEGO Online & LEGO retailers
DREAMZzz has been providing a steady stream of impressive sets since its introduction in 2023. But those inspired by Z-Blob have been particularly great. The slime-like character is the creation of Dream Chaser, Matero. In the Dream Realm, Z-Blob can transform into all sorts of different things. Although this isn’t a Z-Blob-themed set, it does include the vibrant colour palette associated with the character.
The truck is built in three sections, beginning with the cab. This has an unusual, dumpy appearance, making it a rather unique vehicle. It’s also slightly sloped forward, which adds to the uniqueness. But the most striking thing about the cab is its colour. It’s mostly red but is decorated with lime green items and six fluorescent green and yellow wheels. Another unique feature is the two large fins connected to the front of the truck’s cab. The design of this part of the cab is impressive, especially how elements have been used to frame parts of the cab.
The cab can be connected to a long trailer bed. This matches the design of the cab, with the trailer being mostly red and featuring more of those unique wheels. It’s at this point in the build process where you can choose how to proceed. One route creates a spray paint cannon, which is fixed to the trailer and can be angled via a hinge joint.
The alternate build is a spray-paint rocket. Both options are extremely similar looking and use a series of large like green curved panels to create an oversized can. The set is also decorated with a selection of stickers. The foil effect sheet of stickers is a welcome addition. Their application to different parts of the set elevates it. Especially those found on the spray can.
As impressive as the buildable aspect of the set is, the minifigures are amazing. As Mateo is one of the theme’s main characters, he’s appeared in many sets. But this latest version is the best yet. He appears to have partly merged with Z-Blob, which is shown through a cool translucent green slime-like hooded cape. He also sports a transparent green leg and arm. Fellow dreamer, Cooper is the most common minifigure in the set, having appeared in three other sets. Mr Oz may be lacking his usual Classic Space apparel, but this version is unique to this set. Thankfully, his simian pal, Albert, has gone all in on Classic Space, with the character kitted out in a dark blue space-branded outfit complete with matching helmet and air tanks, perfect for those creating a team of different coloured astronauts.
The other two minifigures have been introduced as part of the gaming-themed storyline. D-Shock is a jazzy dude, his vibrant colouring is amazing, but it’s the print detail which really impressed. Parts of the torso and head feature detail reminiscent of old-school 3D effects. One may not be as vibrant as her companion, but her hairpiece is cool. The dual-moulded piece is interesting, unique and results in a cool-looking character.
The minifigures are joined by a pair of Cyber Brain Siders. These unique creatures use the brain-like elements for their bodies and unusually mounted tiles to give them a similar appearance to a centurion’s helmet.
This set certainly has it all, an impressive build with countless playability, alternate builds, vibrant visual appeal and great minifigures. People often bemoan original themes, dazzled instead by those based on popular IPs. But original LEGO themes, whether they are one-off waves or here for a couple of years, continue to be the pinnacle of creativity. The lack of restriction which comes with a licensed property allows more of the set’s cost to go towards new elements. Mateo’s Spray Paint Truck is a wonderful example of this. The truck is substantial and well-designed, with the minifigures being some of the best releases this year. Don’t miss out on this truly outstanding set. The LEGO DREAMZzz Mateo’s Spray Paint Truck set is available now.
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