LEGO’s Bold New Direction: Tim & Struppi Moon Rocket Signals a Shift Towards Franco-Belgian Comics
LEGO continues to push boundaries with its latest Ideas set: the 21367 Tintin Moon Rocket. This April release marks a significant first – the inaugural LEGO set based on a Franco-Belgian comic. The iconic, red-and-white checkered rocket, instantly recognizable from Journey to the Moon (1953) and Steps Out on the Moon (1954), is set to captivate both LEGO enthusiasts and fans of the beloved comic series.
The Rise of Licensed Comics in the LEGO Universe
For years, LEGO has successfully partnered with major franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, and DC Comics. However, the move to embrace Franco-Belgian comics, a cornerstone of European culture, represents a strategic expansion into new territory. This opens the door for potential future sets based on other popular series like Asterix and Obelix, Lucky Luke, or The Smurfs. The success of the Tintin set will likely dictate the speed and scope of this expansion.
Set Details: A Blast from the Past
The 21367 Tintin Moon Rocket boasts 1,283 pieces and will retail for €159.99. The set includes six minifigures: Tintin, Snowy, Captain Haddock, Professor Calculus, and the Thompson Twins. Impressively, the completed model reaches nearly 50 centimeters in height, making it a substantial display piece. Early previews at LEGO Fan Media Days in Billund have generated considerable excitement among builders.
LEGO Ideas: A Platform for Fan-Driven Innovation
The LEGO Ideas platform plays a crucial role in identifying popular themes and gauging community interest. This allows LEGO to test the waters with niche concepts before committing to full-scale production. The Tintin Moon Rocket’s journey from fan submission to official set demonstrates the power of the LEGO community in shaping the future of the brand.
Beyond the Rocket: Potential for Expanded Tintin Sets
The Moon Rocket is just the beginning. The rich world of Tintin offers numerous possibilities for future LEGO sets. Iconic locations like Marlinspike Hall, the Shanghai Express, or even scenes from The Blue Lotus could be translated into brick-built adventures. The inclusion of Snowy as a minifigure suggests LEGO recognizes the importance of the supporting characters in the Tintin universe.
The Growing Appeal of Nostalgia in LEGO
LEGO has tapped into a powerful trend: nostalgia. Sets based on classic properties resonate with adult fans who grew up with these stories, although also introducing them to a new generation. The Tintin Moon Rocket perfectly embodies this appeal, offering a tangible connection to a cherished childhood memory.
Current LEGO Ideas Offers
| Image | Set Number / Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 21345 Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Sofortbildkamera | 49,99 € −38 % |
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21357 Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. | 48,66 € −30 % |
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21323 Konzertflügel | 339,10 € −15 % |
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21356 Flussraddampfer | 280,45 € −15 % |
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21348 Dungeons & Dragons: Die Sage vom Roten Drachen | 305,95 € −15 % |
What are your thoughts on the Tintin Moon Rocket? Share your excitement in the comments below!