The original Xbox is being rebuilt as a large-scale collector’s display, with Mattel Brick Shop announcing a 3,509-piece replica to mark the console’s 25th anniversary.
The Mattel Brick Shop Microsoft Xbox Building Toy Kit recreates the first Xbox at 1:1 scale and includes the oversized Duke controller. It also incorporates three game-themed dioramas that fit inside the console body.
A console replica with hidden game scenes
Each diorama draws from a classic Xbox-era title: Halo: Combat Evolved, Psychonauts and The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind. Sliding sections of the console reveal miniature scenes, including Master Chief facing the Flood.
The interactive features extend to the buildable Duke controller. Its buttons activate four different light and sound sequences, while opening the console plays the original Xbox boot audio. The set’s scenes also contain approximately 1-inch NanoWorld figures depicting recognisable characters.
Price and release date
The Mattel Brick Shop Microsoft Xbox Building Toy Kit is priced at $324.99 and is scheduled for release on 1 October 2026. The announcement positions it as a shelf display as much as a traditional construction set.
Set features at a glance
- A fully buildable 1:1-scale recreation of the original Xbox
- A buildable Duke controller with working buttons
- Four controller-triggered light and sound sequences
- Dioramas inspired by Halo: Combat Evolved, Psychonauts and The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
- Approximately 1-inch NanoWorld character figures
- A console-opening sequence featuring the original Xbox boot audio
For readers weighing up a physical gaming display, RETROCADE’s arcade machine buying guide covers the practical considerations involved in choosing a larger centrepiece. Those planning a hands-on build can also browse DIY arcade kits and arcade parts.
The wider story behind the game selection
The inclusion of Psychonauts has an added industry context. During a major round of Microsoft layoffs affecting more than 3,000 employees, Double Fine—the studio that created the game—was cut. After becoming independent, Double Fine subsequently laid off 23 employees, approximately one quarter of its team.
Microsoft joins the brick-built console trend
Brick-built gaming hardware has become an established collector category. Previous licensed projects have included recreations of the Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy and Donkey Kong arcade cabinet, alongside crossover ranges based on Mario, Pokémon and The Legend of Zelda.
Microsoft’s partnership with Mattel also extends beyond the original Xbox replica. The company has a Halo toy range and an upcoming Brick Shop set based on the UNSC M12 Warthog. For more industry coverage, visit RETROCADE’s arcade blog or explore the latest arcade videos.
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