My First Adult LEGO Purchase Was This Mario Set and I Have No Regrets

I'm generally a practical spender. Essentials and the occasional discounted video game usually define my purchases. It wasn't until last year that I even considered a seemingly frivolous purchase like a LEGO set. Despite loving LEGOs as a child, adulthood seemed to put a stop to that. Part of the reason is the price tag; while some sets are affordable, licensed sets, especially those tied to movies or video games, tend to be more expensive.

This explains my hesitation regarding the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. It's been on sale for under $50 since October, but only recently did I decide my desk needed a new, somewhat unusual, potted plant.

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

Lowest Price

LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant
Includes 540 pieces, poseable.
$47.95 at Amazon
$47.99 at Walmart

My interest was sparked by IGN's build review. As a lifelong fan of Mario games, this set seemed the perfect tribute. LEGO's botanical line offers attractive flower sets, but none possess the whimsical terror of this little guy.

My LEGO Piranha Plant

Having built it, I'm thrilled to have it on my desk. It evokes the Mushroom Kingdom, a fun, cultivated Piranha Plant companion during work. Beyond the finished product, the building process was enjoyable. Completed in an afternoon, it remained engaging throughout. It's my only Nintendo LEGO set, but this experience has me considering more.

See More Mario LEGO Sets

The Mighty Bowser - See it at Amazon
Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi - See it at Amazon
Super Mario NES - See it at Amazon
Mario Kart Yoshi Bike - See it at Amazon

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

LEGOs are expensive. Adult-targeted sets frequently exceed $200, creating a temptation to overspend. Unless you're wealthy, there's a balance between treating yourself and financial prudence. This Mario set, under $50, felt justifiable. The hours spent building and the daily happiness it brings make it worthwhile. Is that happiness worth more than $50? For me, yes. But that’s my personal limit.