Lego launches Donkey Kong arcade set with mechanical barrel loop, earning Miyamoto’s approval

Lego has released an official Donkey Kong arcade machine set, designed by Carl Merriam, featuring a mechanical system that allows for an endless loop of barrels for the Jumpman figure to jump over. The set, designed by Carl Merriam, includes a working joystick and jump button. Nintendo creator Shigeru Miyamoto is reportedly happy with the execution. The set was released on August 1st for £149.99 or €169.99.

The set features a "pump" mechanism using a stack of 14 barrels, holding 20 in total, creating an infinite loop where barrels roll down and are collected in a hopper to be returned to the top. Designer Carl Merriam confirmed the barrels used are the same original barrels released in 1989 for Lego’s first pirate sets. Nintendo requested that poison barrels be made heavier than regular ones; this was achieved by adding Minifigure heads inside them. The Jumpman element is detachable, allowing for manual movement to reunite the character with Pauline. The design challenge involved ensuring barrels rolled slowly without getting stuck, achieved using Lego Technic beams slightly thinner than standard bricks.

Merriam stated he has not met Miyamoto personally but heard of his satisfaction with the set.

Merriam, a designer known for previous Lego Nintendo and Pirates sets, addressed the engineering challenge of ensuring barrels rolled slowly without sticking by using Technic beams slightly thinner than standard bricks.

The set is a physical model with basic functional game mechanics, not a digital video game.

Lego and Nintendo have an existing working relationship regarding official sets.

The specific pricing for the US and Canadian markets was not confirmed at the time of the report.

The exact method of Miyamoto’s feedback (direct communication vs. second-hand report) is not detailed, only that Merriam "heard" he was happy.