LEGO’s New Minifigure Vending Machine Set Is Pure Nostalgia

LEGO revealed last week one of its most nostalgic builds yet—and it actually works.

The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set is a creative, vintage-inspired kit for adults that recreates a classic capsule vending machine in true LEGO form. And yes, it dispenses surprise minifigures when you turn the handle.

With 1,343 pieces, this fully functional model includes a satisfying click on the handle, 16 colourful capsules, and a LEGO coin element that you insert before turning the knob. Each capsule contains bricks to build a collectible LEGO minifigure, paying tribute to iconic themes like Castle, Paradisa, Fabuland, and Classic Space—plus a figure of the fan designer who came up with the idea.

That fan is Rob Vangansewinkel from Belgium, who submitted the concept through the LEGO Ideas platform. “As a kid, I had a real vending machine at home and loved it,” he said. “So the idea of creating a working LEGO brick version just clicked.” Rob spent two months testing and tweaking the design using real LEGO bricks—even dismantling his childhood machine to get the mechanics right.

The result is more than just a nostalgic display piece—it’s a working mini vending machine that blends retro aesthetics with clever LEGO engineering. The set is a love letter to vintage design and makes a great gift for anyone into retro decor, art, design, or LEGO collecting.

You’ll find step-by-step building instructions in the box, or you can use the LEGO Builder app to follow the process in 3D. The final model stands over 11 inches tall, and with its rounded styling and mechanical detail, it’s designed to be proudly displayed at home or in an office.

The LEGO Ideas Minifigure Vending Machine set (21358) launches in Canada on June 4 for $219.99 CAD, with early access available for LEGO Insiders. This one’s a must for collectors—and a perfect throwback for anyone who remembers dropping coins into real capsule machines as a kid.