LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 5-in-1 Set Updates a Classic Theme

LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 5-in-1 | Source: The LEGO Group

It’s been seven years since the LEGO Mindstorms theme received an update. Now, the long-running robotic STEM building brand is expanding with the LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 5-in-1 set.

The 949-piece set includes new LEGO Powered UP components that kids can use to create one of five included designs or original robotic builds that can walk, talk, and more. Coding is accomplished using a companion app that uses coding language based on Scratch and supports Python for more advanced coders.

“Since the launch of LEGO Mindstorms over 20 years ago, we’ve been committed to helping children and adults develop STEM skills through play, says Lena Dixen, head of product and marketing development at the LEGO Group. “We are extremely excited to introduce a new Mindstorms product that offers even more creative opportunities for those of all ages, and we thank our fans for continuing to show us what is possible with LEGO Mindstorms.”

LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 5-in-1 | Source: The LEGO Group

Kids Can Build the Following Five Robots:

Blast is a stoic action hero. It can fire or hammer its way through obstacles and grab items. Builders can be the ultimate commanders, programming it to scan its environment and fire darts if it senses danger.
Charlie is a quirky sidekick helper that gives out high-fives and can dance, play the drums, deliver small gifts, and charm friends with its smile.
Tricky is the ultimate athlete. Kids can code it to complete the perfect slam dunk or master a plethora of robot sports: basketball, bowling, or soccer.
Gelo is a four-legged robot. Its unique mechanism allows it to walk, avoid obstacles, and perform tricks.
M.V.P. – The Modular Vehicle Platform can be built into a buggy, a crane, a shooter turret, or a brick-eating truck to pick up LEGO bricks left by kids or other robots.

“We are continually inspired by the creations the community share with us and hope that the LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor inspires many more children and playful adults to explore the exciting world of robotics and coding,” Dixen says.

The LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 5-in-1 set will be available this fall through LEGO Stores, LEGO.com, and select retailers worldwide.

About the author

James Zahn

James Zahn, AKA The Rock Father, is Editor-in-Chief of The Toy Book, a Senior Editor at The Toy Insider and The Pop Insider, and Editor of The Toy Report, The Toy Book‘s weekly industry newsletter. As a pop culture and toy industry expert, Zahn has appeared as a panelist and guest at events including Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) Wizard World Chicago, and the ASTRA Marketplace & Academy. Zahn has more than 30 years of experience in the entertainment, retail, and publishing industries, and is frequently called upon to offer expert commentary for publications such as Forbes, Marketwatch, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, USA Today, Reuters, the Washington Post, and more. James has appeared on History Channel’s Modern Marvels, was interviewed by Larry King and Anderson Cooper, and has been seen on Yahoo! Finance, CNN, CNBC, FOX Business, NBC, ABC, CBS, WGN, The CW, and more. Zahn joined the Adventure Media & Events family in 2016, initially serving as a member of the Parent Advisory Board after penning articles for the Netflix Stream Team, Fandango Family, PBS KIDS, Sprout Parents (now Universal Kids), PopSugar, and Chicago Parent. He eventually joined the company full time as a Senior Editor and moved up the ranks to Deputy Editor and Editor-in-Chief.