As a practical individual, my spending habits lean towards essentials, with occasional splurges on video games during sales. However, last year marked a departure from my usual restraint when I decided to invest in a LEGO set—a hobby I cherished in my childhood but had long abandoned, perhaps due to the steep prices of these kits. LEGO sets, especially those tied to popular franchises like movies or video games, tend to be on the pricier side, which is why it took me a while to justify purchasing the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. It had been discounted since October of the previous year, dropping below $50, and I finally convinced myself that my desk could benefit from a new, albeit unconventional, potted plant.

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

Lowest Price

• Includes: 540 pieces and you can adjust the pose.
• $59.99 save 20%: $47.95 at Amazon
• $59.99 save 20%: $47.99 at Walmart

My interest in this set sparked after reading IGN's review of the Piranha Plant build. Being a devoted fan of the Mario series, this set felt like the ideal way to showcase my passion for the franchise. While LEGO offers several appealing botanical sets that would enhance my desk's aesthetic, none capture the whimsical yet eerie charm of the Piranha Plant.

My LEGO Piranha Plant

5 Images

After assembling the set, I am genuinely pleased to have it on my desk. It transports me to the Mushroom Kingdom, where I envision tending to my little Piranha Plant during work hours. The joy of the final product is matched by the enjoyment of the build itself. Completing it in a single afternoon, the challenge was engaging enough to keep me hooked throughout. Currently, it's my only LEGO Nintendo set, but my positive experience has me considering expanding my collection.

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

As previously mentioned, the world of LEGO can be costly. With new sets aimed at adults released annually, often exceeding $200, it's easy to overspend on these captivating creations. It's crucial to balance treating yourself to something you love with financial responsibility, avoiding a potential 'avalanche of plastic bricks.'

The fact that the Mario LEGO set was under $50 made it a worthwhile investment for me. The hours spent building it and the daily joy it brings me on my desk affirm its value. While this happiness is undoubtedly worth more than $50, that's the threshold I'm comfortable with spending.