This time, we review the “LEGO® Minifigure Vending Machine (21358)” released from LEGO® Ideas, a line that turns fan creations into official products.
This product recreates the famous capsule toy machine using LEGO® bricks. When you turn the handle, capsules come out just like a real machine! To give the conclusion upfront:
It’s incredibly fun! We hope everyone gets to enjoy it.
Now, let’s dive in with photos and videos to clearly showcase its features and details.
Box and Instructions
The box measures approximately 45 cm in height and 28 cm in width, making it quite large.
The parts are divided into 11 numbered bags and 2 additional bags containing transparent pieces without numbers. All inner bags are made of paper. The assembly manual is a single thick booklet.
Start of Assembly
The base section at the beginning is built by stacking blocks just like a regular LEGO® set.
The mechanism involved in turning the handle to dispense capsules from the machine is constructed using a large number of LEGO® Technic parts. It feels more like mechanical engineering than typical LEGO® building. Due to its complex structure, there was some concern during assembly about whether everything was being built correctly according to the instructions.
Completed Model
Finally completed! The more challenging the build, the greater the sense of accomplishment. The set includes the vending machine, 16 capsules, 16 minifigures, and 2 coins.
The lid is not secured with studs but is fixed by fitting into the frame.
Here, capsules have been placed inside the machine.
The motion of turning the handle to release a capsule is faithfully recreated. The sound of capsules clinking together adds to the authentic experience.
Furthermore, the handle only turns when a coin is inserted, just like a real vending machine. This was a point of curiosity before building the set, and it is impressively replicated. LEGO® bricks show no compromise in quality. After turning, the coin appears in the tray on the left side.
These are the coins included — two pieces. It might have been better if there were a couple of extra spare coins as well.
The capsules contain minifigure parts securely fixed by pins, preventing accidental opening even when shaken inside the machine. This design ensures durability, even with rough handling by children. The capsules are sized well to easily hold all parts for one minifigure.
Watch how a capsule comes out when the handle is turned:
https://youtube.com/shorts/k9vjvQWWJnY?feature=share
The internal structure of the capsule machine viewed from above is shown below. The detailed mechanism during operation can be seen in the video, which runs about one minute and shows the machine’s movements, capsules, and their contents.
The machine’s internal mechanism is also demonstrated in a roughly one-minute video. For filming, the plate that stabilizes the central shaft was removed, causing slight wobbling in rotation. Under normal conditions, this plate stabilizes the shaft for smooth operation.
LEGO(R) Minifigure Vending Machine Minifigure Vending Machine 21358
Fully functional and playable
Build minifigures referencing various classic LEGO themes and sub-themes, including Castle, Paradisa, Fabuland® and more
Minifigures
This set includes 16 minifigures designed to fit inside the capsules. A highlight at the product announcement, the lineup features reissues from classic series such as Fabuland, Paradisa, Classic Space, Pirates, and Castle — especially exciting for longtime fans and minifigure collectors. Although not all are visible in the photo, each minifigure comes with accessories.
The Classpe astronauts are the new colors chosen by vote: two each in gold and teal.
From the left: two Kraken warriors from the LEGO® Castle new faction voted in, the fan designer Rob, and a LEGO® Ideas builder minifigure with the LEGO® Ideas logo torso.
From the left: pirate Camilla and Will, a couple from Paradisa. The number 92 printed on Paradisa’s back commemorates the first release year, 1992.
From the left: the Griffin warrior from the LEGO® Castle new faction voted in, nostalgic animal series, and two minifigures with the Fabuland logo. The original Fabuland figures were animal-shaped, but in this set they are represented as human minifigures wearing animal costumes.
Summary of Impressions
The LEGO® Minifigure Vending Machine is a practical set that actually dispenses capsules when turned, making it perfect for lively fun with family and friends. Concerns about durability before assembly proved unfounded. When playing together, turning the gacha is sure to spark excitement!
It seems fun to play games like: getting a skeleton or zombie means a miss; filling it with Marvel characters and drawing Iron Man means a hit; or with Star Wars, drawing Luke is a win. You could also try putting your own minifigures inside for a personalized gacha experience.
We definitely want all Swooz/Stds users to try turning the LEGO® brick gacha machine and have fun! It might even inspire you to try a real gacha machine.
Buy at the Official LEGO® Shop
Overview of the LEGO® Minifigure Vending Machine
- Product Name: LEGO® Minifigure Vending Machine
- Product Number: 21358
- Release Date: June 1, 2025
- Recommended Age: 18+
- Number of Pieces: 1,343
LEGO(R) Minifigure Vending Machine Minifigure Vending Machine 21358
Fully functional and playable
Build minifigures referencing various classic LEGO themes and sub-themes, including Castle, Paradisa, Fabuland® and more
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