LEGO's foray into video games began nearly 31 years ago with "LEGO Fun to Build" on the SEGA Pico. Since then, the colorful Danish bricks and their iconic minifigures have inspired a unique genre of video games, thanks in large part to Traveler's Tales' engaging action-platforming and the integration of numerous pop-culture franchises into the LEGO universe.
Narrowing down the list was no small feat, but we've compiled our top 10 LEGO games to date. For those interested in exploring more, don't miss out on the recently released LEGO Fortnite.
The 10 Best LEGO Games
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10. LEGO Island
No list of the best LEGO games would be complete without mentioning the pioneering 1997 PC adventure, "LEGO Island." Although it may appear basic by today's standards and less polished compared to newer titles, "LEGO Island" remains a delightful and nostalgic experience. Players embark on a mission to thwart the Brickster, who aims to dismantle the island brick by brick. The game features multiple character classes and an early open-world concept that adds both comfort and engagement. Though it might be challenging to find, "LEGO Island" is a nostalgic gem worth exploring.
9. LEGO The Lord of the Rings
"LEGO The Lord of the Rings" stands out as a unique entry in the LEGO game series, utilizing actual audio clips from the films rather than new voice recordings. This approach adds a fresh, humorous twist to iconic scenes, like Boromir's death being accompanied by a barrage of bananas. The game is packed with Easter eggs, such as the Assassin's Creed-inspired achievement, and includes characters from the books not seen in the movies, like Tom Bombadil. Combined with the typical LEGO game puzzles and action, "LEGO The Lord of the Rings" offers an engaging experience that lives up to its epic title.
Read our review of LEGO The Lord of the Rings.
8. LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures
"LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures" demonstrates how LEGO can transform a less family-friendly film series into a playful, yet faithful adaptation. Mirroring the structure of the LEGO Star Wars games, it recreates the first three Indiana Jones movies with a light-hearted twist on darker scenes. The game showcases improved gameplay over its predecessors, focusing more on puzzle-solving and exploration. It remains a fun, co-op friendly experience that holds up well over time, deserving a spot in any gaming collection.
Read our review of LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures.
7. LEGO DC Super-Villains
LEGO games excel at reimagining darker themes in a kid-friendly manner, and "LEGO DC Super-Villains" is a prime example. This game flips the script by letting players control DC's notorious villains, showcasing the LEGO charm and TT Games' unique style. It successfully makes these rogues likable and family-friendly, appealing to fans without losing the essence of the characters. The inclusion of a customizable character adds a creative element, reminiscent of playing with actual LEGO sets.
Read our review of LEGO DC Super-Villains.
6. LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes
"LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes" introduced the open-world concept to LEGO games with its expansive Gotham City. Although later games improved upon this feature, the charm of exploring a LEGO-ified Gotham remains unparalleled. The game surpassed its predecessor in nearly every aspect, standing as the pinnacle of the LEGO Batman series. It caters to fans of Batman, DC, and comics in general, with a diverse roster of characters and countless collectibles. "LEGO Batman 2" is not just a top LEGO game; it's a standout Batman game as well.
Read our review of LEGO Batman 2 or check out the best LEGO Batman sets.
5. LEGO Harry Potter
The initial release of "LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4" set high expectations, which it met with its detailed and immersive world. The game closely follows the Harry Potter books and films, offering players a chance to explore Hogwarts' secret passageways, visit the Common Rooms, and even engage in Quidditch matches. The sequel, "LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7," expands the exploration further, introducing new locations like Zonko's Joke Shop and Godric's Hollow. With excellent graphics and rewarding exploration, these games capture the magic of the Harry Potter universe in classic LEGO style.
Read our review of LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 or take a look at the best LEGO Harry Potter sets.
4. LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga
"LEGO Star Wars" was the first pop-culture property to be transformed into LEGO form, sparking a new wave of fans and collectors. Released alongside "Revenge of the Sith," it could have been a mere cash grab, but Traveler's Tales infused it with their signature puzzle-platforming, collectibles, and humor. "LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy" followed, appealing to older fans with its focus on the classic films. Together, these games laid the groundwork for the LEGO game phenomenon.
Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga.
3. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
With nearly two decades of experience, Traveler's Tales could have simply repackaged old content for "LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga." Instead, they revolutionized the series with updated combat, camera, and overworld mechanics, reworking every level, character, and vehicle. The game offers a vast array of activities and collectibles, appealing to both casual and die-hard Star Wars fans. By including references to spinoff films and TV shows, "The Skywalker Saga" provides a comprehensive and action-packed LEGO experience.
Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga or take a look at the best LEGO Star Wars sets.
2. LEGO City Undercover
"LEGO City Undercover" offers an open-world experience reminiscent of "Grand Theft Auto," but rated "E for Everyone." Set in a sprawling LEGO city, it's filled with collectibles, activities, and humorous nods to buddy cop films. The game's engaging story, wit, and charm prove that LEGO games can stand on their own, even without relying on popular franchises.
Read our review of LEGO City Undercover.
1. LEGO Marvel Super Heroes
The Marvel Universe, with its vast array of characters and settings, is perfect for a LEGO game. "LEGO Marvel Super Heroes" brings together heroes and villains in a way that was rare at the time due to intellectual property rights issues. The game allows for creative gameplay mechanics and features iconic locations like Asgard and New York City. Its humor and attention to detail capture the essence of Marvel Comics, making it a standout LEGO game. Even though subsequent games in the series expanded on the roster, the original set a high bar that didn't necessarily need a sequel.
Read our review of LEGO Marvel Super Heroes or take a look at the best LEGO Marvel sets.
LEGO Games: The Playlist
From early browser games to the latest hits on consoles and PCs, here's a comprehensive look at notable LEGO games throughout the years. See All!
LEGO 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
