Here’s How You Can Get Your LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP Set

Last week, the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP set was revealed to be the next gift-with-purchase set. However, LEGO is still keeping this under wraps considering that we still have several promotional sets that are still active, particularly the LEGO Year of the Rabbit (40575). If you’re looking to bag this one, you have until tomorrow, January 25, to avail of this set with qualifying purchases. But if you’ve set your sights on getting the latest Bionicle set, then read on because LEGO has released the details on how to get them.

In an email sent by the company to all LEGO affiliates, we now know when and how to avail of the  LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) gift-with-purchase set. There has been plenty of mixed reactions regarding this one, but still, it’s great to see LEGO offering this classic theme back to AFOLs who grew up with the Bionicle theme.

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From January 27 to February 9, 2023, you can have the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP set for free for a minimum qualifying purchase of any LEGO City, Monkie Kid, Ninjago, Friends, DOTS, Creator 3-in-1, and Classic sets worth $95 above. As it seems, LEGO is giving its non-licensed themes a boost during the next few weeks.

Valued at $17, the said Bionicle promotional has a lower spending limit than previous ones. For example, the LEGO Houses of the World (40583) has a qualifying purchase of $250 or more for you to avail of it. The LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser (40580) also has a higher qualifying purchase of $190 and more when offered during the first two weeks of January.

The LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP set promo is not yet live over at LEGO’s Offers and Promotions page, but we can expect this to be up in the next couple of days. Here’s another look at what we can expect from this classic throwback set.

LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581)

219 pieces | $16.99 | Coming soon as a gift-with-purchase set

In 2001, The LEGO Group introduced a new theme that would become a sensation: BIONICLE®. This story of mighty heroes with elemental powers took the world by storm, inspiring comics, novels, and movies. Now two of the theme’s most popular characters return with this LEGO® Icons BIONICLE Tahu and Takua (40581) set. The articulated action figures come with a fire sword and a disc-thrower accessory. The set also includes a lava display stand, so you can pay tribute to BIONICLE in your home or office.

  • Get reacquainted with heroes – Tahu and Takua are articulated action figures of iconic heroes from the LEGO® BIONICLE® theme, complete with a fire sword and a disc thrower.
  • Watch them surf on lava – The set includes a lava display stand, allowing the duo to surf on the rivers of molten lava that flow from the Mangai volcano.
  • Dimensions – This product measures over 5 in. (13 cm) high and 2 in. (6 cm) wide.

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Build Your Very Own LEGO God of Fortune to Celebrate the Chinese New Year

Today marks the beginning of the Year of the Water Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac. And LEGO Singapore joins in the celebration by offering a regional exclusive promo LEGO God of Fortune brick-built mini statue.

Thanks to information provided by the Brickfinder, we get to see the intricacies of this miniature collectible. As it is, the LEGO God of Fortune is a gift-with-purchase set offered at Suntec City Mall in the famed Lion City. For every single-receipt purchase made at Suntec City Mall worth SGD $388 and above, you get to bring home this 132-piece giveaway. Some other conditions are attached to this promo, as you can see below.

LEGO God Of Fortune promo
Image courtesy of the Brickfinder.

Frankly, the purchase price point for this set might be a bit high. But as the Brickfinder mentions, this is a stackable promo. This means you also get to bring home for free other LEGO promos (such as the LEGO Year of the Rabbit and the LEGO Lunar New Year VIP Add-On Pack) during this time if you buy LEGO in Suntec City Mall.

And if you’re on the other side of the globe now, you can also have the chance to build your very own LEGO God of Fortune. You may download the building instructions here and check if you have the necessary parts to recreate this freebie. There seem to be no exclusive elements on this set, so you can check with your current LEGO collection if you have the parts available.

lego god of fortune parts list
Image courtesy of the Brickfinder.

If you’re unfamiliar with this deity, this Chinese God of Fortune also comes by the name Caishen. He is said to bring good luck and prosperity to celebrate the new year.

LEGO Designers Share the Inspiration Behind the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP Set

The LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP or gift-with-purchase set was revealed last week. And in case you missed it, it will be our next promotional set from January 27 to February 9 with a single-receipt qualifying purchase of LEGO products worth $100 and more.

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The next gift-with-purchase set will be the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581). 

Frankly, the reveal was welcomed with mixed reactions from LEGO adult fans of the classic theme. You just need to read some of the comments on our Facebook page to get a sense of the response.

To help long-time fans of the LEGO Bionicle theme understand the inspiration behind this latest promotional offering, LEGO designers and fellow Bionicle aficionados Nick Vás and George Gilliatt shared on Twitter their thoughts about their creation. They showcased the intricate details and visuals of the new designs, giving fans a better understanding of their work.

Considering both Nick and George saw the start of the theme as kids, no wonder, their creativity and shared passion for the original sets made it all possible. It looks like the team never stopped building Bionicle characters; each of the prototypes shared reveals different building techniques and elements introduced by LEGO in recent years.

And it seems their days of creating Bionicle figures are far from over. The sample models recently revealed by LEGO show the various building techniques and pieces other designers implemented to give this latest Bionicle a modern look. Here are some of the MOCs or prototypes other designers created over the years.

LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581)
Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.
LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581)
Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.
lego bionicle prototype 1
Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.

I have to say that this collection of masks will be an instant hit among LEGO Bionicle fans if they were made to become actual LEGO sets. It’s not a long shot to consider since LEGO already came up with a similar series in the likes of the LEGO Brick Sketches.

lego bionicle masks
Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.

In creating the final model for the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581), six initial designs were considered that highlight the original members of the Toa Mata. Eventually, the legendary Toa of Fire was considered to represent the theme to a whole new generation of LEGO fans.

lego bionicle all
All original members of the Toa Mata rendered using some Technic parts. Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.
lego bionicle prototype fire
The Toa of Fire gets the nod as the next LEGO GWP set. Image courtesy of Nick Vás via Twitter.

Another point to consider is their iconic masks. The masks of the Bionicle sets in 2001 were considered the most captivating aspect of the sets. And since production for these collectible parts is no longer available, Nick and George need to work their way around with available pieces. Nick also consulted the LEGO fan community on how people would like to see the theme again after more than 20 years. Here are some of the designs that they drew inspiration from.

You may love it or hate it, but certainly, the LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP set is a culmination of what fans and designers would like to somewhat see in the theme’s modern iteration. It may not be as close to the original sets we grew up with, considering that Nick and George are limited to certain parts since they need to develop a promotional set. But who knows? Maybe LEGO has something similar or a full-size Bionicle set in the works? I will not be surprised if LEGO decides to go this route considering the recent revival of classic sets targeted at adult fans of LEGO.

If we saw the comeback of the Castles, and Space themes in the form of the LEGO Icons  Lion Knights’ Castle (10305), and Galaxy Explorer (10497), then it’s not impossible to consider that another LEGO Bionicle set might be on the horizon.

So what do you think of this latest LEGO Bionicle promotional set? Do you think it truly captures the theme as we knew them decades ago? Let me know what you think in the comments below.

LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) GWP Set Revealed!

LEGO seems to be on a roll with its recent reveals of gift-with-purchase or GWP sets. And this time, LEGO has revealed another one that fans of the classic Bionicle theme will be glad to have. The LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) has been listed and officially revealed at LEGO.com and is said to be available as a promotional set from January 27 to February 9, 2023.

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Tagged as an 18+ set, this LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581) promotional set intends to appeal to adult LEGO fans of the classic theme. Coming in at 219 pieces, the set is valued at $16.99 and features two of the theme’s iconic characters. LEGO is yet to announce the purchase price point for this promo. But if we compare this to another classic promotional released recently, like the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser, for example, we can assume that the upcoming Bionicle-inspired GWP will somewhat require a qualifying LEGO purchase between $100 or so.

For now, let’s take a look at what to expect from this promotional set. Check out its official images and product description below. I’ll update this post once more info comes in.

LEGO Bionicle Tahu and Takua (40581)

219 pieces | $16.99 | Coming soon as a gift-with-purchase set

In 2001, The LEGO Group introduced a new theme that would become a sensation: BIONICLE®. This story of mighty heroes with elemental powers took the world by storm, inspiring comics, novels, and movies. Now two of the theme’s most popular characters return with this LEGO® Icons BIONICLE Tahu and Takua (40581) set. The articulated action figures come with a fire sword and a disc-thrower accessory. The set also includes a lava display stand, so you can pay tribute to BIONICLE in your home or office.

  • Get reacquainted with heroes – Tahu and Takua are articulated action figures of iconic heroes from the LEGO® BIONICLE® theme, complete with a fire sword and a disc thrower.
  • Watch them surf on lava – The set includes a lava display stand, allowing the duo to surf on the rivers of molten lava that flow from the Mangai volcano.
  • Dimensions – This product measures over 5 in. (13 cm) high and 2 in. (6 cm) wide.

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New LEGO Promos and GWP Sets Now Up!

In case you missed it, several LEGO promos and GWP or gift-with-purchase sets are now over at LEGO’s home shopping portal and all LEGO stores. Now that the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser (40580) promotional set has finally concluded, we can expect 2 additional GWP sets to be around (until supplies last) starting January 15 to 25, 2023.

The LEGO Year of the Rabbit (40575) can be yours for a minimum single-receipt qualifying purchase of any LEGO products worth $85 and more. This LEGO promotion is the 9th Chinese zodiac-inspired set from the seasonal series, so if you’re a completionist and wish to collect all these brick-built collectibles, you better not miss out on this one.

lego year of the rabbit

If you’re a LEGO VIP member, you are also in for another exclusive treat. Starting this week until the end of the month, there are two promos and GWP sets that you can bag for free with qualifying purchases. The LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) is presumably the first in the series of several culturally inspired brick-built home dioramas. Coming in 348 pieces, this LEGO VIP-exclusive set comes with a rather high price point in order to claim. For a single-receipt purchase of any LEGO products worth $250 and more, this freebie will be automatically added to your bag as well.

lego houes of the world vip

And to continue the Lunar New Year festivities, LEGO VIP members can also expect to have the  LEGO Lunar New Year VIP Add-On Pack (40605). This LEGO promotion features an awesome selection of seasonal LEGO pieces offered in variant colors such as recolored lantern pieces, and minifigures accessories, including a couple of rabbit figures. You can have this freebie automatically added to your cart for a minimum single-receipt LEGO purchase worth $50 or more.

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lego lunar new year gift vip

I have to admit that getting LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) may prove to be a bit pricy if you’re looking forward to collecting and completing its series. But if you have your LEGO budget ready for this month, then it’s still nice to see this collectible added to your cart for free.  And since LEGO has already confirmed that there will be three more sets under this theme, then we better be ready for some serious LEGO spending.

For more info about these LEGO promos and GWP sets, be sure to visit LEGO.com.

LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) Now Listed at LEGO.com – More to Come

Last month, I ran an article that featured an upcoming promotional set that celebrates the beautiful architectural designs of South American homes. And this time around, we get to see the lovely LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) up close and personal.

Now listed over at LEGO.com, the LEGO Houses of the World 1 clocks in at 348 pieces and is valued at $20. It features a South American-inspired home complete with all the interior decorations that make it unique.

As I mentioned before, the design of this promotional set suggests that more of its kind might be released, that can be connected to this original build. And as it turned out, LEGO made it clear that it can be combined with three more sets of its kind which will all be available separately. All in all, there are 4 sets to collect under the LEGO Houses of the World collection, it’s pretty exciting to see what countries or regions will be represented next.

Same as with the LEGO Birthday Diorama, we don’t have any official word from LEGO as to when the LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) set will be available. I’ll keep you posted once this promo becomes live.

Check out the following details of this upcoming GWP set.

LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583)

348 pieces | Valued at $19.99. Free with qualifying LEGO purchases. 

Be inspired by different cultures as you build the first in a collection of LEGO® Houses of the World. In tribute to the buildings of South America, this house (40583) features distinctive architectural details. The theme continues inside with South American interior decor. The modular design means this house can be combined with others from the collection (40590, 40594 and 40599) – each available separately.

40583 1 40583 alt1 40583 alt2

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LEGO Birthday Diorama (40584) Gift-With-Purchase Set Officially Revealed

In case you missed it, LEGO.com has recently listed a new promotional item that will light up any birthday celebrations. The LEGO Birthday Diorama (40584) gift-with-purchase (GWP) set is the next item that you might see added to your LEGO cart (together with qualifying purchases) anytime soon.

This GWP set features 2 children minifigures both raring to go and light up the birthday party. As a nice little brick-built vignette, it features a birthday wall, balloon elements, a candle, a cake, and gifts. Another fun feature included in this set is that you can change the colors of the birthday wall as it comes with a different birthday panel.

Though the set is listed already at LEGO.com, we still need to hear an official announcement on when the LEGO Birthday Diorama (40584) will be available, and how much its corresponding qualifying purchase amount will be. Since the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser GWP is still up, then it’s most likely that it will be LEGO’s next promotional offering.

Take a look at its official product images and descriptions below. Will keep this under our radar, and I’ll keep you posted once it’s available.

LEGO Birthday Diorama (40584)

157 pieces | Valued at $12.99. Comes as a gift-with-purchase set together with qualifying purchases. 

Mark your birthday or send a celebratory gift to friends or family with this sweet LEGO® Birthday Diorama (40584). The set includes lots of colorful birthday details, including balloons, a candle, cakes, gifts, and “Happy Birthday” signage. There are also 2 minifigures to add to the party vibe. Use the changeable scenery to customize your build.

40584 1 40584 alt1 40584 alt2

 

ICYMI: Here’s How To Get Your LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser (40580)

In case you missed it, LEGO is running a promotional campaign to jumpstart the year. We learned that a familiar and highly popular LEGO Space subtheme is returning in 2023. And thankfully, we now know the details of how we can bring home the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser (40580).

40580

Starting this week and until January 14, we can have this improved and re-released version of a 1987 classic added to our LEGO shopping carts for a single-receipt purchase of any LEGO products worth $190 or more.

Relaunch a 1980s space classic
Rediscover a classic LEGO® set from the 1980s with the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser. A highly detailed redesign of the original 6894 set, it’s guaranteed to provide hours of enjoyment recreating a childhood memory for LEGO® fans. Receive this gift with LEGO® purchases over $190, valid 1/1/23-1/14/23 while supplies last.

Coming in at 356 pieces including a much-desired Blacktron Rogue minifigure, this is a gift-with-purchase set that is hard to give a pass. Its modular design is a great throwback to its original play features, plus the several new pieces and re-design give it a particular touch meant for an adult LEGO fan base who fondly remembers their original Blacktron sets.

Though the $190 promotional threshold may feel a bit steep on the wallet, there are plenty of excellent LEGO 2023 sets that you may want to consider investing in within this price range. For $190 you may consider having a couple or more of those newer LEGO City Stuntz sets, or some mech-inspired LEGO Monkie Kid sets such as the Monkey King Ultra Mech (80045) and Yellow Tusk Elephant (80043). And with almost 200 new LEGO 2023 sets now listed and available at LEGO.com, there’s something that will strike our fancy.

As of this posting the LEGO Icons Blacktron Cruiser still appears in my cart upon checkout over at LEGO.com, but bear in mind that this promotional set is only up until January 14 or while supplies last. This is also available at all LEGO stores until such time so you may want to check with your local LEGO store as well.

LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) Is Most Likely Our First 2023 GWP Set

Huw from Brickset has shared a review of what seems to be our next LEGO gift-with-purchase (GWP) set for 2023. The LEGO Houses of the World 1 (40583) implies that this may just be the first of a series of promotional sets that is slated for next year.

LEGO Houses of the World 1
Image courtesy of Brickset.

Huw’s review is a pleasant surprise since this is the first time that we are seeing this set. LEGO is still mum about this promotional, but since we are seeing a review of the LEGO Houses of the World then we can assume that an official announcement may likely be on its way anytime soon. It is also nice to see if similar future GWP sets can somehow be connected to this one, culminating in a nice display set just like that of LEGO’s 60 Years of the LEGO Brick (40290) from 2018, or that of Tribute to LEGO House (40563) promotional sets from last year.

As a limited edition set, the Brickset article goes on to show that the first house to be given the spotlight is a dwelling that is native to Central America. Coming in at 348 pieces, the LEGO Houses of the World microscale set 1 is loaded with plenty of details both inside and out. It measures 10×12 studs, featuring a 2-story house with plenty of amenities. There are also plenty of LEGO elements and pieces which give a hint of the cultural background of its residents. I have no qualms about the use of stickers for some of its pieces since this set is a gift-with-purchase, to begin with. Plus, it also comes with a LEGO Friends-like Chihuahua piece which gives the set its unique personality.

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Images courtesy of Brickset.

There’s no official word yet from LEGO as of this posting, but given its piece count, we can also surmise that the relative purchase amount required to bag this freebie may be around $150-$200. I’ll keep you posted on this one as more information comes in.

Special thanks again to Huw from Brickset for sharing this great review and images.

First Images Up for Mid-Oct GWP Creator 3-in-1 Mystic Witch (40562)

Speaking of LEGO GWPs, here’s another one coming up next for big buyers this October 2022. The more recent gifts currently available come from a variety of LEGO themes. Our next expected GWP for mid-October is no different. Speaking of variety, this one will provide plenty all its own, considering it’s a LEGO Creator 3-in-1. And the timing can be no more appropriate too when we consider the subject of this set. With Halloween coming at month’s end LEGO is offering us this. It even has an age recommendation right for the occasion’s primary demographic.

Courtesy of The Brick Fan, we have this scoop on the LEGO Creator 3-in-1 Mystic Witch (40562). As expected, this upcoming GWP set lets builders create an iconic Halloween witch. We’re talking conical hat, broomstick, green skin, the works. You’ll even be forgiven if you can’t decide whether her mouth piece is a smile or a big protruding tooth. And being a 3-in-1 set, Mystic Witch can be rebuilt into two other alternate forms. She can become her own familiar black (well, purple) cat or a cute little dragon. Just like a stereotypical witch to be able to magically shapeshift. It doesn’t get more Halloween-y.

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LEGO collectors can have the GWP Creator Mystic Witch (40562) for a minimum total purchase of $100. The corresponding gift period begins this coming Friday, October 14, and will run all the way to Halloween itself. It just doesn’t get more spooky seasonal than this.