LEGO's foray into the world of video games began nearly 31 years ago with "LEGO Fun to Build" on the SEGA Pico, marking the start of a vibrant genre that has captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide. The success of these games can be largely attributed to Traveler’s Tales’ innovative approach to action-platforming and their ability to bring beloved pop culture franchises to life in LEGO form. From iconic movies to legendary comic books, these games have transformed how we interact with these universes, making them accessible and fun for players of all ages. We've carefully curated our list of the Top 10 LEGO games to date, and for those looking for something new, don't miss out on the recently released LEGO Fortnite.
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No list of the best LEGO games would be complete without the pioneering 1997 PC adventure, LEGO Island. While its graphics and gameplay might feel dated compared to modern titles, LEGO Island remains a cherished classic for its engaging, open-world exploration and the nostalgic charm of thwarting the mischievous Brickster's plans to dismantle LEGO Island brick by brick. Its pioneering approach to gameplay and multiple character classes make it a timeless adventure worth revisiting.
LEGO The Lord of the Rings stands out for its unique approach to storytelling, using original audio from the movies to enrich the gameplay experience. This creative decision injects a fresh, humorous twist into iconic scenes, like Boromir's dramatic death being humorously interrupted by bananas. The game also pays homage to the source material with Easter eggs and a roster that includes characters like Tom Bombadil, offering a blend of action, puzzles, and the classic LEGO humor that fans adore.
Read our review of LEGO The Lord of the Rings.
LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures masterfully recreates the adventurous spirit of the Indiana Jones trilogy in a way that's accessible to all ages. By playfully reinterpreting some of the films' more intense scenes, the game maintains the essence of the movies while adding a light-hearted twist. Enhanced gameplay mechanics, a focus on puzzles and exploration, and the joy of local co-op make this title a standout that continues to entertain nearly 15 years after its release.
Read our review of LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures.
LEGO DC Super-Villains flips the script by letting players step into the shoes of DC's notorious villains, showcasing the LEGO series' ability to transform darker themes into family-friendly fun. This game not only celebrates the rogues gallery of DC villains but also integrates a custom character into the narrative, allowing players to tap into the creative essence of LEGO play. It's a testament to TT Games' skill in crafting engaging, character-driven stories.
Read our review of LEGO DC Super-Villains.
LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes broke new ground as the first LEGO game to introduce an open-world experience, set against the backdrop of Gotham City. Despite the more refined open worlds that followed, the charm of exploring Batman's iconic city in LEGO form remains unmatched. With an expanded roster of DC characters, from General Zod to Captain Boomerang, and a wealth of collectibles and unlockables, this game stands out as not only a top LEGO title but also a premier Batman game.
Read our review of Lego Batman 2 or check out the best LEGO Batman sets.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 set a high bar with its detailed recreation of the magical world of Hogwarts. The game's commitment to the source material, combined with innovative exploration of secret passageways and Quidditch matches, creates an immersive experience. The sequel, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7, expands the adventure further, enhancing the magical journey with visits to iconic locations and a blend of classic LEGO gameplay and rewarding exploration.
Read our review of LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 or take a look at the best LEGO Harry Potter sets.
LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga holds a special place in gaming history as the first to merge the LEGO and Star Wars universes. The game's success lies in its ability to capture the essence of Star Wars through humor, puzzle-platforming, and a vast array of collectibles. This title not only appealed to a new generation of fans but also set a precedent for the LEGO video game genre.
Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga.
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga represents a monumental leap forward for the series, with a complete overhaul of gameplay mechanics, camera work, and world design. Covering all nine mainline Star Wars films, this game is a comprehensive celebration of the saga, packed with references and collectibles that cater to both casual and die-hard fans. It sets a new standard for what LEGO games can achieve.
Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga or take a look at the best LEGO Star Wars sets.
LEGO City Undercover offers an open-world experience akin to a family-friendly Grand Theft Auto. Its expansive world, filled with collectibles, activities, and witty references to action movies, showcases the potential of LEGO games to stand on their own without relying on licensed properties. The game's engaging story and humor make it a standout title in the LEGO lineup.
Read our review of LEGO City Undercover.
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes masterfully brings the vast Marvel Universe to life, allowing players to explore iconic locations and interact with a wide array of characters. Its strength lies in the seamless integration of Marvel's heroes and villains, offering diverse gameplay mechanics and a sandbox experience in New York City. The game's ability to include characters and settings not available in physical LEGO sets at the time further cements its status as a landmark title in the LEGO gaming world.
Read our review of LEGO Marvel Super Heroes or take a look at the best LEGO Marvel sets.
From the early days of browser-based games to the latest hits on consoles and PCs, here's a look at all the significant LEGO games that have shaped the genre over the years. See AllLEGO Fun to BuildSEGA
LEGO IslandMindscape
LEGO CreatorSuperscape
LEGO LocoIntelligent Games
LEGO ChessKrisalis Software Limited
LEGO Friends [1999]Flipside Ltd.
LEGO RacersHigh Voltage Software
LEGO Rock RaidersData Design Interactive
Robohunter: Temple of the SerpentTemplar Studios
LEGO LandKrisalis Software Limited