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

As someone who prides themselves on practicality when it comes to spending, my purchases usually stick to the essentials. Occasionally, I'll splurge on a discounted video game, but that's about where my indulgences end. It wasn't until last year that I even entertained the idea of buying something as seemingly frivolous as a LEGO set. Despite my childhood love for building them, I had outgrown the hobby—until now.

One of the reasons I hesitated for so long was the cost. While there are affordable LEGO sets under $25, those linked to popular movie or video game franchises often carry a heftier price tag. It took a while for me to justify the purchase of the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant, which had been on sale since last October for under $50. But finally, I decided my desk needed a unique "potted plant."

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

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

My interest in this set was piqued after reading IGN's review of the Piranha Plant build. As a lifelong fan of Mario games, this set seemed like the perfect homage to the franchise. LEGO's botanical line offers stunning flower sets that would enhance my desk, but none capture the whimsical terror quite like the Piranha Plant.

My LEGO Piranha Plant

Now that I've built the set, I'm thrilled to have it on my desk. It transports me to the Mushroom Kingdom, imagining I'm tending to my own Piranha Plant during work hours. The building process was equally enjoyable; I completed it in an afternoon, yet it was challenging enough to keep me engaged throughout. This is currently my only LEGO Nintendo set, but after this delightful experience, I'm open to expanding my collection.

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?

LEGO sets, especially those aimed at adults, can be pricey, with some reaching over $200. It's easy to overspend on these delightful creations. The key is finding a balance between indulging in a passion and maintaining financial prudence.

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant, priced under $50, felt like a reasonable treat. The hours spent building it, and the daily joy it brings me, justify the cost. Is this happiness worth more than $50? Definitely. But for me, that's the limit I'm comfortable with.