Review: 76178 Daily Bugle (Part #2)
Posted by CapnRex101,
The scandalous Daily Bugle newspaper appears routinely throughout Marvel Comics, arraigning Spider-Man and several other heroes. While this newspaper has maintained unaltered views, the headquarters building has experienced copious adjustments between comics.
Varied sources have therefore influenced 76178 Daily Bugle, which seems comparatively modern alongside Modular Buildings. That decision has proven somewhat controversial, although I think the excellent design overshadows such concerns. Additionally, interesting details are available to explore, including many references.
The Completed Model
Substantial towers have become increasingly common throughout the LEGO range, although none match the Daily Bugle Building in sheer scale. This model measures 82cm in height and appears consistent with the architectural designs found across New York City, where the Daily Bugle is located. However, the structure does seem relatively bland without minifigures placed on the exterior, lacking elaborate architectural features.
76178 Daily Bugle is compatible with Modular Buildings so features similar pavement outside, comprising dark bluish 2x2 tiles and light bluish grey kerbs. These are interrupted by a simple chequered pattern around the entrance, flanked by two colourful plants. This design contrasts perfectly against the predominantly grey building and I appreciate the accurate Manhattan fire hydrant, although flowers appear out of place.
An attractive green newsstand is situated on the pavement, selling various postcards, the Daily Bugle newspaper and a business magazine. The printed magazine is particularly interesting as Wilson Fisk appears on the cover. Hopefully this menacing villain, commonly known as Kingpin and opposing Spider-Man and Daredevil, will soon become available in physical form.
The pavement becomes increasingly cracked and damaged behind the Daily Bugle, as studs emerge among the tiles. I appreciate this transition into neglected alleyways and the requisite dumpsters are included, beneath an air conditioning unit. These two dumpsters feature yellow crates and removable lids, containing cans, cherries and a rotten hot dog inside!
Black paint rollers support the lamp outside an emergency exit. This building technique has appeared previously but works effectively here. Moreover, the emergency exit door displays interesting graffiti on a sticker, apparently indicating that both Green Goblin and Eddie Brock have visited recently. Green Goblin's unique tag represents Goblin Nation, from the Superior Spider-Man comics.
Peter Parker frequently needs to stow his Spider-Man costume, ready for use should danger arise. The model accordingly includes a backpack which is hidden behind a web, referencing Peter's traditional method of concealing the suit. This web component is attached using a clip, allowing it to open and revealing the reddish brown backpack underneath.
Medium nougat boxes and an electrical utility station disguise the Technic components where Modular Buildings can connect with the model. Unfortunately, the electrical station is one stud further back than it should be, although that is easily resolved. The neighbouring maintenance cover features a realistic sticker and some intriguing cracks are present across this wall. Mark Stafford has stated that the rat makes reference to the animal from Avengers: Endgame.
Sandman's unique physiology enables the character to transform his body. Marko sometimes employs this ability to surprise opponents by bursting from the ground and that is successfully represented here. Various tiles and wedge slopes are joined using ball joints and hinges which create the impression of broken pavement, with Sandman emerging between them. The figure looks marvellous, although several hinges remain visible.
Minifigures can enter the Daily Bugle Building through a sliding door. This mechanism is very simple, without an external control, but functions smoothly and the undecorated door appears consistent with the surrounding windows. In addition, I like the Daily Bugle branding above the entrance, integrating three stickers and matching details on the different newspapers provided.
While minifigures can access the ground floor easily, human access is more challenging! The upper levels are removable, akin to Modular Buildings, but reaching inside is relatively difficult. Ideally, the front wall could be removed to match other levels, although that would compromise the building strength because no internal walls or columns are positioned within reception.
The relative inaccessibility is disappointing because some appealing furniture is placed inside. Curved tiles form the two-level reception desk which looks marvellous and awards are placed behind the desk, belonging to the Daily Bugle. The handcuffs connected beside this reception desk seem strange, although these may prove helpful given the regularity of villainous attacks against the newspaper!
Three seats are available for visiting minifigures, with newspapers placed behind them. Four copies of this 'No Crime' newspaper are distributed throughout the model, hence that is likely the new issue. This vending machine contains 'Web Juice' cans which seems quite surprising because I doubt J. Jonah Jameson appreciates any references to web-slingers. The machine looks good though, despite not functioning like previous LEGO vending machines.
Unwanted visitors are deterred by the functioning security barrier, above which an impressive television displays a news programme. Morbius, the Living Vampire has reportedly been seen on the New York subway system, coinciding with an unprecedented scarcity of garlic. I believe these unusual events might be connected!
Important newspapers from the Daily Bugle's history are displayed inside reception, including the famous 'Spider-Man: Threat or Menace' issue which initially appeared during the Amazing Spider-Man Annual #15, released in 1981. That design has been transformed into a minifigure here while the neighbouring newspapers record minifigures walking on the Moon and the new Daily Bugle building, where this skyscraper is pictured.
The aforementioned cracks in the wall reveal a removable segment to represent minifigures breaking in! The irregular edges look splendid and I am impressed with the integration of the removable panel, particularly because its appearance seems consistent with other walls. The slopes and inverted slopes do not tessellate perfectly, but that appears unavoidable.
Several large screens are positioned above the ground level, corresponding with various real buildings throughout New York City. The first such television screen displays four members of the Sinister Six, apparently abandoning their criminal activities during a press conference. The caption, branded with the Daily Bugle logo, fittingly questions this dubious admission.
J. Jonah Jameson appears on the neighbouring screen, interviewing three Marvel characters who appear during the famed Clone Saga storyline. Dr. Curt Connors, whose name is spelled incorrectly on the sticker, frequently transforms into the Lizard while Professor Miles Warren is better known as the Jackal. These characters look excellent in minifigure form and the Scarlet Spider reflects his minifigure depiction from 76057 Spider-Man: Web Warriors Ultimate Bridge Battle.
Norman Osborn, also known as the Green Goblin, maintains a threatening presence across the Marvel universe. This curved billboard, promoting his mayoral campaign, shows the industrialist sporting a campaign badge and his severe expression looks great. However, my favourite detail is definitely the distinctive horizontal lines in Norman's hair, matching his comic hairstyle.
The skyscraper appears less vibrant when viewed from behind, where textured rail elements separate enormous window panels. The design is extremely basic but resembles buildings of the International Style, which seems appropriate for the Manhattan skyline. Furthermore, I like how angular accents are situated above these decorative rails.
Contrasting against the predominant light bluish grey structure, this red fire escape comprises six platforms which are connected using ladders. Unfortunately, they are inaccessible from the interior and minifigures cannot move between platforms because there are no gaps in the floor. Increasing their size would have provided space for such gaps, so I think the fire escape could have been improved quite easily.
Each level of the Daily Bugle building can be removed, corresponding with Modular Buildings. However, an ingenious system of removable walls is included too, providing far easier access than the Modular Buildings have achieved. Detaching the front walls reveals marvellous detail inside, particularly on the first floor where the bullpen is situated.
Three realistic desks are arranged around the central column, featuring computers, beverages and untidy stacks of newspapers. The environment certainly befits stereotypical journalists and the stickered computers feature splendid detail. Moreover, I like the alternating televisions fixed above the desks, displaying male and female news anchors reporting different stories.
Four printed newspapers also decorate the column, presumably relating to important stories uncovered by these journalists. Those on either side feature Electro and Rhino, two common enemies of Spider-Man, while the newspapers situated on the front and back speculate about the web-slinger's hidden identity. The foremost 'Who is Spider-Man' headline takes inspiration from Sam Raimi's Spider-Man, where the same newspaper appears.
Light bluish grey jumper plates represent drawers in each desk and I love the traditional lamp, needed for illuminating late-night investigations. Newspapers are scattered around this larger desk, including a copy of the Law Times which documents Foggy Nelson and Matt Murdock's latest legal victory. Of course, Matt Murdock also combats criminals outside the courtroom, as Daredevil.
Three recognisable newspaper headlines are mounted on the wall. These originate from Sam Raimi's popular Spider-Man trilogy, with the alarming 'Times Scare' headline appearing during the original film while 'Spider-Man No More?' and 'Doc Ock Still at Large' both make reference to the sequel. The latter newspaper appears particularly enjoyable as 4855 Spider-Man's Train Rescue featured a similar printed tile.
An outstanding shattered window interrupts the otherwise monotonous exterior, where Green Goblin is escaping. Capturing such dynamic action is unprecedented within an official product and the explosion looks superb, making exceptional use of ball joints to support the shattering windows. Additionally, this may be reassembled to construct a standard wall, should you wish.
Numerous renditions of Green Goblin's glider have been produced. This design is noticeably simple, lacking the dramatic decoration which sometimes appears and instead focusing upon aerodynamic shaping. The angular bodywork certainly seems appealing and this predominant sand green colour looks reasonable, although I would have favoured brighter shades.
The building narrows somewhat at this level, creating room for a spacious balcony. The door appears suitably mundane and another external light is connected to the wall, corresponding with that on the ground floor. I think some additional detail could have appeared here, maybe referencing another character or linking with the neighbouring fire escape.
Unlike those above and below, this window section is also secured vertically as the exploding panel moves its centre of gravity forwards. These additional attachment points comprise trans-clear headlight bricks, producing a sturdy structure. Otherwise, removing this window matches those on other levels and considerable detail continues inside.
Dark bluish grey 2x6 tiles form lift doors on each floor. These appear realistic and the dark red buttons look perfect, although no lift is actually present. Space is evidently limited and omitting the lift was sensible from that perspective, although I wonder whether enlarging the skyscraper in footprint would have improved the entire structure.
Otherwise, this foyer contains a filing cabinet, some boxes and an excellent photocopier. This machine appears remarkably authentic, including the exposure glass and an opening lid. I am pleased that Peter Parker's camera is provided beside a pizza box, while multiple newspapers are stacked on the floor. These include The Conspirator, which shows an alien spacecraft.
Peter Parker frequently provides photographs for the Daily Bugle, although he rarely works in his own office. Nevertheless, this space includes reasonable detail, dominated by the unusual photograph on the wall. This makes reference to a famous moment from the 1967 Spider-Man animated series, during which the hero hides beneath a desk with that photograph behind him.
Despite lacking dramatic explosions or signage, the uppermost floor includes four important flagpoles. These form welcome connection points for displaying the many minifigures. I think additional exposed studs throughout this model might therefore have proven helpful and they could have been integrated surreptitiously, as part of the architectural aesthetic.
The reverse does incorporate more conspicuous features, including a gigantic billboard which advertises 'Just the Facts' with J. Jonah Jameson. This radio series appears during the recent Spider-Man video game and the billboard design takes direct inspiration from the game. A nice bird's nest is located here as well, employing the same building technique as 10270 Bookshop.
J. Jonah Jameson supervises the Daily Bugle from his office on the top floor, which is easily accessible by removing the front wall. Once again, the arrangement works nicely and avoids interference with the Spider-Mobile, driving on the neighbouring wall. I wonder whether some similar removable walls would enhance the Modular Buildings.
Betty Brant's desk is suitably positioned outside J. Jonah Jameson's office, opposite another entrance to the lift. Strangely, the instructions display an arrow pointing upwards above these doors, even on the top floor. Nevertheless, this space looks good and I love the colourful floor, contrasting with the bright green and flame yellowish orange pieces employed below.
The desk is constructed sideways and its shape appears remarkably modern, with a rounded space accommodating the chair. Betty's computer is depicted by a trans-light blue book cover and shows almost one hundred missed calls from Eddie Brock. Presumably this sinister villain has been attempting to contact the Daily Bugle to apply for a job, since he is a journalist when not terrorising Spider-Man.
Another desk occupies J. Jonah Jameson's office. This example seems more traditional, which suits the wrathful editor and I appreciate the dark colour scheme in here. Two golden statuettes are displayed behind the desk, perhaps representing the Daily Bugle's two Pulitzer prizes, while the adjacent glowing rock could have brought the Symbiote to Earth.
Jameson is known for frequently firing and then quickly rehiring staff, depending on his mood and requirements. The computer therefore displays an email to Peter Parker, while an almost identical message appears on Spider-Man's computer in 76175 Attack on the Spider Lair. The newspapers include another reference, with one headline demanding photos of Spider-Man so reflecting the 2002 Spider-Man film.
An enormous Daily Bugle sign dominates the building, measuring 28cm across and extending beyond both sides. I was initially unconvinced by these simple letters, although the design has gradually become more appealing. The block capital letters appear appropriate here and some exposed studs among the letters are welcome, providing attachment points for minifigures.
However, I dislike the asymmetry between the words, which may have been avoided by using another font and alternative construction methods. Furthermore, certain letters seem awkward, notably including the 'B' and the 'G' because their shapes are somewhat inconsistent. The bold colour looks wonderful though, complementing the aforementioned fire escape.
The decorative bugle emblem of the Daily Bugle is cleverly constructed and accurately points towards the left, matching the comics. This structure looks brilliant, although the neighbouring sign overshadows the bugle. I think integrating a black circle or similar background behind the bugle emblem would have considerably enhanced its visibility.
Water towers have appeared on Modular Buildings and other models, varying in design. This rendition appears relatively large and comprises two wheel components, creating appropriate texture around the tank. The support structure seems equally accurate and two stickers adorn the water tower, exhibiting another Goblin Nation tag beneath Miles Morales' unique symbol.
An enormous antenna stands beside the water tower, featuring various communication dishes. The base includes a decorated slope which only otherwise appears in 60284 Roadwork Truck and provides excellent detail here. However, I think the antenna should have been fixed more securely because it feels relatively fragile, without supplementary support.
Four articulated dishes and an aircraft warning light are mounted on the antenna. They seem appropriate for the Daily Bugle building and the alternating red and white stripes are attractive. Furthermore, another connection point is included for displaying Firestar, whose flying ability is portrayed by stacked trans-orange energy blast accessories.
Spider-Man's considerable vehicle collection has become increasingly outlandish, including an array of strange conveyances. However, the character has frequently employed vehicles in the comics and the most famous example is the Spider-Mobile, which is attached outside the Daily Bugle. The buggy is mounted on a turntable and looks fantastic here, replicating its wall-driving ability from the comics.
The vehicle takes inspiration from the Meyers Manx and its characteristic shape is immediately recognisable, even though the model only measures 8cm in length. The forward rake is perfect and I love the accurate blue and red livery, complementing Spider-Man's costume. Stickers are placed on the bonnet and either side to form headlights and web patterning, each looking good.
There is space for one minifigure inside which is sufficient, given the scale. The continued blue colour looks excellent while the contrasting light bluish grey windscreen frame and roll bar both also correspond with the source material. Furthermore, mechanical detail appears between the rear wheels, completing an impressive rendition of the nimble Spider-Mobile.
While the appearance of the Daily Bugle Building commonly differs, its New York City location remains consistent. An attractive yellow taxi accordingly accompanies the model, featuring the colours traditionally associated with these vehicles. This example appears rather old-fashioned and resembles the famous 'Checker Cabs' which populated New York City for decades.
The model measures 13cm in length which seems appropriate beside minifigures. I appreciate this appealing wheel arrangement and the black accents look superb. Unfortunately, the famed black and white chequered stripes associated with these taxis are missing, although integrating such decoration here may have necessitated compromises in bodywork shaping.
Six stickers are applied across the taxi, including two number plates which make reference to Amazing Fantasy #15, where Spider-Man was originally introduced. The headlights and silver radiator grille appear reasonably accurate and I love how Technic 'cross blocks' are integrated here. The narrow slits in these elements resemble indicators on the original New York taxis.
The transition between the bodywork and cab section appears somewhat awkward, although enhancing the design is difficult at this scale. Interior space appears noticeably limited but the roof is easily removable, providing access to place two minifigures inside. Moreover, I love the realistic taxi sign which is mounted on the roof and the asymmetrical door mirror looks brilliant as well.
Impressive detail continues towards the rear, where various trans-orange, trans-red and trans-clear lights adorn this vehicle. These are correctly positioned when compared with the original taxi and the metallic silver 1x1 round plate represents the fuel cap. The exhaust, formed using one flintlock pistol element, is superb too. I appreciate this consistent attention to recognisable details, despite the modest scale.
Overall
76178 Daily Bugle appears unlike any previous LEGO model, encapsulating the natural chaos associated with comics! Despite lacking the architectural detail of Modular Buildings, the tower combines realistic mundanity with outlandish action and looks attractive on display, particularly when populated by the minifigures. The addition of several exclusive characters is welcome, of course.
However, potential for enhancement definitely remains, in my opinion. Augmenting the footprint would have provided greater interior space and certain details seem unusually basic, especially around the roof. Nevertheless, I remain delighted with 76178 Daily Bugle and I think the price of £274.99 or $299.99 represents fair value, given the inclusion of 25 superb minifigures and 3772 pieces which comfortably exceeds previous Marvel sets.
Our complete review of the minifigures is available here.
This set was provided for review by The LEGO Group but the review represents an expression of my own opinions.
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52 comments on this article
I got this set just for the absolutely amazing build. I couldn’t care less about Spider-Man but it just goes so well with modular buildings!!
The attaching point I noticed for modular compatibility (based on my instructions) was off by a stud on the left side (yellow thing is back a stud too far) I thought it was odd lego would let an error like this through... although it is easily remedied
@Your_Future_President said:
"I got this set just for the absolutely amazing build. I couldn’t care less about Spider-Man but it just goes so well with modular buildings!!
The attaching point I noticed for modular compatibility (based on my instructions) was off by a stud on the left side (yellow thing is back a stud too far) I thought it was odd lego would let an error like this through... although it is easily remedied "
Yeah, I've always thought my town was missing a big skyscraper. I had a vague idea I might design my own one day, but this saves me the trouble and supplies a few reasonable civilians.
There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take.
Thanks for this review, man I can and can't see this on my City.
With this great review I'd really love to see some images of the building next to the modular lineup to get a better sense of scale. And the Ninjago City Gardens which is also quite tall.
I just realized that the giant antenna array could be the broadcaster antenna that Spider-Carnage tries to use to destroy reality in the finale of the 94’ animated series. I think this set is amazing! And I would totally buy it if I could afford to spend that much money.
@secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here
@Sandinista said:
" @secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here "
No I don't think they meant harm. It was just hard for me to make, that's all...
@secchildhood said:
" @Sandinista said:
" @secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here "
No I don't think they meant harm. It was just hard for me to make, that's all...
"
I completely sympathize. I watched the second plane hit from about 18 blocks away, and even after 20 years, those feelings aren't going anywhere. That probably does explain why I've subconsciously planned on building the "clean" version of the Bugle for display. Which I very much look forward to doing.
When this was first revealed, I thought it might be one of those sets that’s so good you have to get it even if you don’t otherwise care about the theme. Like a Ninjago City, Hogwarts Castle, or a huge Millennium Falcon. But the more I see and realize how uninteresting a lot of the building itself is, I think it’s a set that’s amazing for fans of the theme but others won’t be missing anything if they pass. More like a Ninjago City Docks, Diagon Alley, or Mos Eisly Cantina.
There's a lot going on in this set. But it's basically two parts - the minifigs and the building.
The minifigs are an A+ but the building is merely good, maybe a B. I think if you just want the building you'll easily be able to sell the minifigs and get a huge skyscraper for peanuts.
For me, the set looks like an A-. Few duplicate minifigs (just Spiderman, I think) and a building I can comfortably add to my modulars.
i'm still on the fence a little with this one. I haven't got the Ninjago gardens yet and that appeals more. Whilst this is clearly impressive I would have preferred an Avengers Tower in large scale rather than the smaller version released a short while ago.
The minifig selection is definitely pretty good
An exceptional review! Good job, Cap'n.
I've ordered a no-minifigs copy of this astonishing building; can't wait to make it into a HQ!
Should’ve included MJ though
@jdm said:
"i'm still on the fence a little with this one. I haven't got the Ninjago gardens yet and that appeals more. Whilst this is clearly impressive I would have preferred an Avengers Tower in large scale rather than the smaller version released a short while ago.
The minifig selection is definitely pretty good"
I think that a large scale Avengers Tower would be incredible in this scale! With the 10th anniversary of the original film coming up, perhaps we could see a similar rendition of the Stark Tower next year? That would be a definite purchase for me.
@secchildhood said:
" @Sandinista said:
" @secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here "
No I don't think they meant harm. It was just hard for me to make, that's all...
"
Fortunately you don’t have too as there are all the parts to assemble it as a normal window :)
If Lego doesn't do a model of this scale for the Baxter Building when the MCU Fantastic Four film comes out and uses it to clear the backlog of iconic characters associated with the team who desperately need minifigures, I will be... unsurprised but disappointed. Avengers Tower seems much more likely and would also be mightily impressive.
I hadn't looked at too many of the pre-release pictures, so I was surprised and laughed when I realized I was building the office from the "Spiderman sitting at a desk..." Meme.
LEGO has always seemed a bit square, I like that they are loosening up. They appear to be having fun with and embracing the 18+ rating, I wonder just how far they will take it.
Anyway it's a treat to have fun sets that also have a mature quality to them.
Question: how many minifigure-scale Lego New York City (real or fictional) sets have there been?
- Daily Bugle
- Dr. Strange's Sanctum Sanctorum
- That Spider-Man Brooklyn Bridge Battle (requires 4 sets for accuracy, though)
- Ghostbusters Firehouse
- Sesame Street
- Some of the smaller sets add a New York flair, like the original Ghost Rider street chase (76058), ATM Heist (76082), and Karai Bike Chase (79118).
I'm just saying, we're on our way to a miniature minifig-scale Manhattan.
@ResIpsaLoquitur said:
"Question: how many minifigure-scale Lego New York City (real or fictional) sets have there been?
(...)
I'm just saying, we're on our way to a miniature minifig-scale Manhattan."
Does 70840 count...? :-D
@ForestMenOfEndor said:
" @secchildhood said:
" @Sandinista said:
" @secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here "
No I don't think they meant harm. It was just hard for me to make, that's all...
"
I completely sympathize. I watched the second plane hit from about 18 blocks away, and even after 20 years, those feelings aren't going anywhere. That probably does explain why I've subconsciously planned on building the "clean" version of the Bugle for display. Which I very much look forward to doing."
That is what I ended up making--the clean version! Nice.
@bananaworld said:
"
@ResIpsaLoquitur said:
"Question: how many minifigure-scale Lego New York City (real or fictional) sets have there been?
(...)
I'm just saying, we're on our way to a miniature minifig-scale Manhattan."
Does 70840 count...? :-D
"
That's more of a Planet of the Apes....
Part 1 of the review holds far more interest to me. Minifigures are the clear highlight of this set.
@ForestMenOfEndor said:
" @secchildhood said:
" @Sandinista said:
" @secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing.
Also, while I admire the mechanics of the explosion, as a person who was right by the towers on 9/11, a LEGO depiction of a glass skyscraper being blown apart is a little hard to take."
I was there, too. It was 20 years ago, and I’m hoping we can collectively move on from that tragic day. I don’t think LEGO is trying to be harmful here "
No I don't think they meant harm. It was just hard for me to make, that's all...
"
I completely sympathize. I watched the second plane hit from about 18 blocks away, and even after 20 years, those feelings aren't going anywhere. That probably does explain why I've subconsciously planned on building the "clean" version of the Bugle for display. Which I very much look forward to doing."
I'm Portuguese, saw that tragic event by television, those images will never be forgotten. I've visited NY and you can tell easily that everything is still very recent, 20 years from a chronological perspective is nothing...
I've built last summer a skyscraper for my city, inspired by all the beautiful ones I've seen in NY, I wouldn't dare to represent any negative events or thoughts. If I buy this set, I will build the clean version as well.
@ResIpsaLoquitur said:
"Question: how many minifigure-scale Lego New York City (real or fictional) sets have there been?
- Daily Bugle
- Dr. Strange's Sanctum Sanctorum
- That Spider-Man Brooklyn Bridge Battle (requires 4 sets for accuracy, though)
- Ghostbusters Firehouse
- Sesame Street
- Some of the smaller sets add a New York flair, like the original Ghost Rider street chase (76058), ATM Heist (76082), and Karai Bike Chase (79118).
I'm just saying, we're on our way to a miniature minifig-scale Manhattan."
What about Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles???
Loool
NY is so inspiring that eventually one day we'll have a miniature Manhattan. I love the idea! Lol
Don't forget the Architecture sets, that we'll not include on this specific topic, but still....
The Review said:
"Unfortunately, the electrical station is one stud further back than it should be, although that is easily resolved."
I'm really surprised they made this mistake. How did that get placed wrong?! Yes, it's an easy fix, but it should never have made it to release without them noticing this mistake.
Again, my wish would have been for a printing press, where all those issues of the Daily Bugle fly off Big Blue (or whatever nickname they have for such a machine in the Marvel Comics world) and into the hands of the staff.
Also probably would have added an advertising section, even though the sales reps rarely factor into story lines. More like a traditional newspaper.
This set more or less brings ideas for my own newspaper modular building, which the Lego City sorely needs.
It looks like there are loads of old 12V railway tracks forming part of the build. Glad to see they've still got the mould - more 12V tracks please, Lego!!!
@chris38911 said:
"It looks like there are loads of old 12V railway tracks forming part of the build. Glad to see they've still got the mould - more 12V tracks please, Lego!!!
"
Yes I noticed the straight rails along the buiding.
LEGO used also Monorails in LEGO Masters in 2 regions now (NA and NL/BE), which was a major tease, but I don't think those were new parts however.
@lCapnRex101
I’m glad you pointed out the correct depiction of Norman Osborn’s hair. I’m really hoping LEGO will produce a matching wig piece for use with Norman, Flint Marko/Sandman, and Captain Marvel/Shazam, who all share the same hairstyle.
It looks like such an amazig build.
But ... "web juice"?
Interesting (and tragic) to read the comments about the 9/11 association. I must admit I never thought about that when seeing the pictures of the set details, even though I vividly remember the events of that day, which shook me to the core even though I was thousands of miles away.
I was at university back then, and when we saw the images on the news at first we simply couldn't believe it. It all seemed so surreal and incredible. Many of us were overwhelmed and in tears. We never felt so much like Americans ever before or after as during that moment.
That being said, I don't think this set should in any way be seen as being disrespectful towards what happened back then. I don't think anyone at LEGO would have greenlit this set had they been in doubt about that.
Kerbs... is that a Spider-Man/Marvel reference?
@AustinPowers said:
"Interesting (and tragic) to read the comments about the 9/11 association. I must admit I never thought about that when seeing the pictures of the set details, even though I vividly remember the events of that day, which shook me to the core even though I was thousands of miles away.
I was at university back then, and when we saw the images on the news at first we simply couldn't believe it. It all seemed so surreal and incredible. Many of us were overwhelmed and in tears. We never felt so much like Americans ever before or after as during that moment.
That being said, I don't think this set should in any way be seen as being disrespectful towards what happened back then. I don't think anyone at LEGO would have greenlit this set had they been in doubt about that. "
I agree 100 percent that no disrespect could have been intended or even imagined. The "explosion" feature is very clever and well designed, and a great combination of play and display. I just think our particular family's display version will be the calmer scene. Although I'm sure that my son will decide otherwise, at some point.
I'm surprised the Spider-Mobile is attached with a turntable; in my experience the clutch isn't enough for models at least that size and knowing that it's used here makes its position seem even more precarious than first impressions suggested! I had assumed it was attached with a pin connection instead.
That Wilson Fisk picture looks like a bigfig. A hint of something to come, maybe?
@secchildhood said:
"There's a lot that's impressive about this, but the build is VERY REPITITIVE especially compared to a modular. We are stacking trans-clear panels endlessly in this thing. "
There's not much to do about repetitiveness: unless LEGO makes bigger window panes, we'll be stuck stacking smaller ones. That being said, the look it gives is fantastic and very representative of this type of building that every major city has. It's one of those cases where the sum of the pieces and building experience is more than the individual things taken separately. And in this case, it's also more repetitive because there are more floors than on a regular modular, which is a positive thing in the end!
@TheOtherMike said:
"That Wilson Fisk picture looks like a bigfig. A hint of something to come, maybe?"
He's been a bigfig in both the Marvel Superhero games already, we just need a physical version of him!
Outstanding review, as always, cap'n! I wonder if you struggled at the end to come up with new, yet ever more, appropriate adjectives to describe the duplicitous J Jonah Jameson! It made me smile, thank-you.
The build can be tedious at times (stacking windows, Doc Oc's arms) and I'm not a huge fan of the faux elements (elevator and fire escape), but it looks splendid once finished and with a few tweaks and positioning it integrates better than I expected with the modulars.
TLG should definitely hire a person whose only job is to check the spelling on stickers!
Call me cynical, but I have doubts the villains will keep their promise to stop being bad guys . . .
@CapnRex101
Thank you for the great articles, which I've really enjoyed reading so far.
Would it be possible to do a (part 3) review showing this set with some of the modular buildings, especially in its 'clean' configuration, for those of us that are more interested in the skyscraper itself, similar to the part (3) review you did on 71741 ?
I know there were renders done, but they don't show the whole picture: It is quite difficult to get a sense of scale on this building, especially compared to e.g. 70720, 71741, 10224 and 10278
Meant 70620 in the above comment. not 70720.
Any suggestions to change the stickers ? I want to place it on my Lego city where all the citizens are traditional Lego figures. Anyone can recommend a sticker set that might suit for the TV's or the outside banners?
Tks
As a NYC school teacher who was with young students on that horrific day, I can certainly see how one may have flashbacks to this day upon viewing this set.
I had no such flashbacks, however. The toy depicts a fictitious super villain crashing through a fictitious skyscraper. My reaction was purely from a Marvel/Spidey fan's point of view. I thought the Goblin crashing through the window looked fantastic. Then I read Stafford's comments here that the parts for keeping the windows in tact are also included, and that impressed me even more.
This set is a must buy for me. I've cut back on purchasing large sets because I don't have room to display or store all that I want to buy and build. This set hits so many notes for me though, as a lifelong New Yorker, a Webhead, and a Modular fan since Cafe Corner. Make mine Marvel!
Big fan of comics, for 40 years and love ALL the figs and references, details.
Must buy on my list!
I know the designer went with the comic book, marvel handbook version of the building which is fine but I think some subtle changes for the exterior. Crown the top with dark grey, dark grey for the rails. Maybe that will break up the monotony of all light blue grey. Mix in too embossed bricks to add more texture.
I mean this isn't for me. It's a giant grey tower. But holy crepes at all those details and shoutouts they crammed in. Fans are definitely getting their money's worth.
is it just me, or is there a highly conspicuous hole in the carpet in Jameson's office? Between his chair and the pillar, there is a 1x1 gap in the carpet, leaving a LBG stud exposed...it's an easy fix, but seems like a glaring oversight on a set of this magnitude.
Edit: oops, nevermind. I swear I looked ahead in the instructions before posting...
I do believe that the metal grey round 1x1 on the back of the taxi is not a fuel cap (are there rear-placed fuel caps?), but a taxi medallion of the kind that all licensed taxi cabs in NYC (and other cities) must display on their car
@Orange_Jooze said:
"I do believe that the metal grey round 1x1 on the back of the taxi is not a fuel cap (are there rear-placed fuel caps?), but a taxi medallion of the kind that all licensed taxi cabs in NYC (and other cities) must display on their car"
Last time I saw a checkered cab was when I was a kid but I believe it’s a gas cap.
The medallions, again if I remember right, were welded to the hood.
I didnt want this set as Im not bothered about it. Reading the review and seeing the detail, I now want one! :)