The partnership between LEGO and Pokemon has been a hot topic for fans of both franchises, and for good reason. Two of the world's most iconic brands have finally come together, and the result is a collaboration that's making a huge impact on the toy industry. While the anticipation for LEGO sets inspired by beloved franchises is nothing new, the excitement around LEGO Pokemon is something special. Fans of both worlds have been eagerly awaiting this collab, and the response so far has been not only overwhelmingly positive, but overwhelming in numbers, too. From sold-out sets to skyrocketing resale prices, this collaboration is already one of the biggest releases in LEGO's history, and it may just redefine what it means to combine nostalgia with creativity.
When LEGO officially launched its Pokemon sets, the reaction was immediate. Fans didn't just buy the sets, but rather they rushed to get them. The Kanto Badge Gift Set, one of the most coveted items in the line, sold out within hours of its release. That kind of demand is rare, especially for a product that combines the allure of LEGO with the beloved Pokemon universe. It's not just the die-hard Pokemon fans who are getting in on the action; collectors of all kinds are flocking to secure their pieces. In fact, many of these sets have already popped up on eBay at inflated prices, signaling just how high the demand really is. But what does this collaboration mean in the bigger picture of LEGO's 2026 lineup? Could the LEGO Pokemon sets even outshine other upcoming releases, like the highly anticipated LEGO Zelda and Star Wars sets?
Official LEGO Pokemon Sets Are Coming in 2026, But So Far, They're Underwhelming & Pricy
LEGO is starting 2026 with a bang by releasing around 200 new sets, but its collaboration with Pokemon may not as exciting as it seems.
LEGO Pokemon Sets Are An Instant Phenomenon, And That's a Problem
The response to the 2026 LEGO Pokemon sets has been nothing short of a phenomenon. Pokemon is one of the most beloved franchises in the world, and LEGO has long been a fan-favorite for both kids and adults. By combining the two, LEGO has created something that feels special. The attention to detail in these sets is truly remarkable, with iconic Pokemon, gym badges, and Kanto critters all brought to life with the precision LEGO is known for. These sets are not just toys—they're pieces of art for fans to display, celebrate, and cherish. They are:
- LEGO Pokemon Pikachu and Poke Ball ($199.99)
- LEGO Pokemon Eevee ($59.99)
- LEGO Pokemon Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise ($649.99)
The Kanto Badge Gift Set, in particular, has been a clear standout. Within hours of its launch, the set sold out, leaving fans scrambling to get their hands on it. But the rush didn't stop there, and resellers quickly listed the sets on eBay, with prices skyrocketing well above the expected value. This isn't the first time a LEGO set has sold out quickly, but the level of demand for LEGO Pokemon is something truly unique. It's a sign of just how powerful this collaboration has become, with both Pokemon fans and LEGO collectors wanting a piece of the action. Furthermore, these were pre-orders, so if LEGO wasn't prepared for the volume of those, it could be war to the last brick standing when the sets officially launch on Pokemon Day (February 27).
Although the Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise set sold out, it will be restocked on launch for new orders.
What makes this launch even more significant is that the Pokemon franchise is a multi-generational powerhouse. Pokemon is not only one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time, but also a massive cultural touchstone that spans across decades of fans. From the original Game Boy games (and even the retro console LEGO sets) to the trading card game and the animated series, Pokemon has captured the hearts of millions. The LEGO sets, which tap into that nostalgia, are creating something that's much more than just a toy release, as they're a cultural moment for both Pokemon fans and LEGO enthusiasts alike.
Could LEGO Pokemon Overshadow 2026's Zelda and Star Wars Sets?
Looking ahead to 2026, LEGO has some big releases in the pipeline, including LEGO sets based on The Legend of Zelda and Star Wars. Both of these franchises have massive fanbases and have been the subject of numerous LEGO sets over the years. But when it comes to cultural relevance and long-lasting appeal, as well as sheer sales, Pokemon might just have the edge.
Pokemon continues to expand its influence through new games, TV shows, and even the occasional movies, ensuring that the franchise stays fresh and relevant. LEGO's Star Wars 2026 sets are seeing a lot of hype and older ones are still loved by fans, but Zelda sets are few and far between. In contrast, LEGO's Pokemon sets feel like something entirely new and groundbreaking, attracting not just collectors but a whole new audience of fans who may not have traditionally bought LEGO sets before.
Given the sheer number of fans worldwide and the fact that Pokemon continues to be a dominant force in pop culture, LEGO Pokemon could easily outpace even the most popular LEGO Star Wars and Zelda sets in terms of initial demand and long-term cultural significance. The Kanto Badge Gift Set's rapid sellout is proof of how much excitement there is for these sets, and it's likely that the upcoming sets in the line will follow suit.
LEGO's 2026 Zelda and Star Wars Sets Explained
So, if Pokemon is to be pitted against Zelda and Star Wars, it's worth taking a look at the options. For Zelda, the only confirmed set right now is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time – The Final Battle (77093).
- This set is diorama showing the final battle in Ocarina of Time, depicting Link and Zelda teaming up against Ganon.
- It has 1,003 pieces for a $129.99 pricetag, including a minifigure of Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf
- It comes out on March 1, 2026, and pre-orders are available now
For Star Wars, things are quite different due to the sheer volume of new sets coming out, but this also means multiple past LEGO Star Wars sets are being discontinued in 2026. The list of releases is far from complete, as only some have been confirmed, whereas others remain rumors for now.
- SMART Play: Throne Room Duel & A-Wing
- SMART Play: Luke's Red Five X-Wing
- SMART Play: Darth Vader's TIE Fighter
- Siege of Mandalore Battle Pack
- Cobb Vanth's Speeder
- The Mandalorian & Grogu's Speeder Bike
- Clone Shock Trooper Mech
- Grogu's Homestead
- Venator-Class Attack Cruiser
- BB-8 Astromech Droid
Why The Scope of LEGO Pokemon Sets May Be Unprecedented
It's tough to predict the exact number of people who will be interested in LEGO Pokemon sets, but based on Pokemon's massive global reach and LEGO's longstanding popularity, it's safe to say that the market is vast. Pokemon is one of the most popular video game franchises worldwide, with over 450 million copies sold across various titles. Additionally, the trading card game has experienced a resurgence in recent years, bringing in new fans. When you combine that with LEGO's international fanbase, which spans all ages, you're looking at a potential audience that easily reaches into the tens of millions. If that wasn't enough, 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Pokemon as a series, so the hype and number of announcements for the IP will be over the moon.
A few key facts about Pokemon's reach that help paint the picture:
- Pokemon's Global Impact: With almost 500 million games sold globally (as of March 2025) and a multi-million-dollar trading card market, the franchise is a global cultural phenomenon.
- LEGO's Established Fanbase: LEGO has a diverse fanbase that spans kids, collectors, and adult fans who've grown up with the brand, and Pokemon can bring all of them together.
- Crossover Appeal: Pokemon fans often overlap with LEGO enthusiasts, especially those who grew up with both.
- High Demand for Limited Editions: The quick sellout of limited-edition sets like the Kanto Badge Gift Set demonstrates just how much demand there is for these items.
- Venusaur, Chairzard, and Blastoise as a Collector's Item: The Kanto starters set has already proven to be a fan-favorite by selling out just a day after its pre-orders started, and it's likely to be the most difficult to get of the bunch, potentially increasing its value on the second-hand market massively.
These factors suggest that the potential audience for LEGO Pokemon sets is massive, and especially so for the Venusaur, Charizard, and Blastoise set. With the continued success of Pokemon and LEGO's ability to capture the imagination of fans young and old, the sky is the limit for these sets, and there's no doubt that the collaboration will only grow in stature. So, while Zelda and Star Wars will still sell and have plenty of fans, Pokemon is likely on another level.
It's rumored that LEGO's Zelda Deku Tree set didn't sell as well as hoped, hence why the scope is now smaller for 2026. This gives further credence that Pokemon sets will, in comparison, outshine Zelda.