Top 10 LEGO Games Ever: A Retrospective

LEGO's venture into the realm of video games began almost 31 years ago with the release of LEGO Fun to Build on the SEGA Pico. Since that initial foray, LEGO games have evolved into a genre of their own, largely due to the engaging action-platforming developed by Traveler's Tales and the incorporation of numerous beloved pop culture franchises transformed into LEGO form. This fusion of creativity and nostalgia has made LEGO games a staple in the gaming community.

Compiling a list of the top 10 LEGO games was no easy task, but after careful consideration, we're excited to share our picks. For those interested in the latest addition, don't miss out on LEGO Fortnite, which has recently hit the scene and offers a fresh take on the LEGO gaming experience.

The 10 Best LEGO Games

11 Images

10. LEGO Island

No list of the best LEGO games would be complete without the pioneering 1997 PC adventure, LEGO Island. Although it may appear basic by today's standards and less polished graphically than newer titles, LEGO Island remains a delightful and nostalgic experience. In this game, you're tasked with thwarting the Brickster's plan to dismantle LEGO Island, piece by piece. With its diverse character classes and innovative open-world design, LEGO Island offers an engaging and cozy gaming experience. While it might be challenging to find now, revisiting LEGO Island is well worth the effort—just keep an eye out for the mischievous Brickster.

9. LEGO The Lord of the Rings

LEGO The Lord of the Rings stands out as an unusual yet effective entry in the LEGO series. Instead of new voice recordings, the game cleverly uses audio clips from the Lord of the Rings films, adding a unique twist. Witnessing iconic scenes, like Boromir's emotional farewell, juxtaposed with whimsical LEGO elements such as being pelted with bananas, refreshes the experience without diminishing the original's impact. The game also includes Easter eggs, such as an achievement inspired by Assassin's Creed, and a vast character roster featuring book-only characters like Tom Bombadil. Coupled with the classic LEGO puzzles and action, LEGO The Lord of the Rings offers an exceptional gaming experience.

Read our review of LEGO The Lord of the Rings.

8. LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures

LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures masterfully adapts the not-so-family-friendly Indiana Jones trilogy into a LEGO game that retains the essence of the films. Much like the LEGO Star Wars series, this game revisits the plots of the first three movies, injecting humor into some of the darker scenes. It showcases improved gameplay over its predecessors, with a focus on puzzle-solving and exploration rather than combat. The game shines in local co-op mode, making it a timeless classic that holds up remarkably well nearly 15 years later—worthy of a spot in any gaming museum.

Read our review of LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures.

7. LEGO DC Super-Villains

LEGO games are renowned for their ability to transform darker themes into family-friendly fun without losing the essence of the source material. LEGO DC Super-Villains flips the script by letting players take on the roles of the bad guys—a rare and bold move. The game successfully makes these villains likable and engaging, showcasing the charm of LEGO games and TT Games' creative flair. Additionally, the inclusion of a customizable character adds a layer of personal creativity, reminiscent of playing with LEGO toys.

Read our review of LEGO DC Super-Villains.

6. LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes

LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes introduced the concept of an open world to TT Games' portfolio, setting the stage in the iconic Gotham City. While later LEGO games might have improved on this formula, the charm of exploring Batman's city in LEGO form remains unparalleled. This sequel surpasses its predecessor in nearly every aspect and represents the pinnacle of the LEGO Batman series. With a diverse roster of characters from across the DC universe and a vast array of collectibles and unlockables, LEGO Batman 2 offers a rich and immersive experience that appeals to both Batman and general comic fans alike.

Read our review of LEGO Batman 2 or check out the best LEGO Batman sets.

5. LEGO Harry Potter

LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 set high expectations, and it delivered with meticulous attention to detail and an engaging retelling of the Harry Potter saga. The game not only follows the plot closely but also offers a fresh perspective on the magical world, allowing players to explore Hogwarts' secret passageways and Common Rooms, and even engage in broomstick flying and Quidditch matches. The sequel, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7, expands the adventure further with visits to iconic locations like Zonko's Joke Shop and Godric's Hollow. Both games, now available as the LEGO Harry Potter Collection, showcase stunning graphics, rewarding exploration, and the classic LEGO gameplay that fans adore.

Read our review of LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 or take a look at the best LEGO Harry Potter sets.

4. LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga

LEGO Star Wars holds the distinction of being the first pop culture property to receive the LEGO treatment, reimagining the Star Wars universe in a way that captivated new generations of fans. Released alongside the merchandise frenzy of Revenge of the Sith, LEGO Star Wars could have been a mere cash grab, but instead, it became a beloved game thanks to Traveler's Tales' signature blend of puzzle-platforming, collectibles, and humor. LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy continued this success, appealing to fans of the original trilogy and setting a precedent for future LEGO games.

Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga.

3. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

After nearly two decades of LEGO Star Wars games, Traveler's Tales chose to completely revamp the series with LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. This ambitious overhaul included new combat mechanics, camera angles, and an updated overworld structure, alongside a comprehensive reimagining of every Star Wars level, character, and vehicle. The game offers an extensive range of activities and collectibles, appealing to both casual fans and die-hard enthusiasts. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga not only covers the main saga films but also incorporates references and content from spinoffs and TV shows, making it a definitive and action-packed LEGO experience.

Read our review of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga or take a look at the best LEGO Star Wars sets.

2. LEGO City Undercover

LEGO City Undercover offers a unique take on the open-world action genre, suitable for all ages. Often dubbed a "LEGO Grand Theft Auto for kids," this game features a vast world filled with collectibles, activities, and humorous nods to classic buddy cop films. Its compelling story is infused with wit and charm, demonstrating that LEGO games can stand on their own merit, independent of popular franchises. LEGO City Undercover is a testament to the potential of original LEGO game concepts.

Read our review of LEGO City Undercover.

1. LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes perfectly captures the essence of the Marvel Universe with its extensive roster of characters, each transformed into iconic LEGO minifigs with multiple unlockable costumes. The game's mechanics are enriched by the diverse powers and gadgets of these characters, offering varied gameplay without straying too far from their comic origins. Levels span iconic locations from Asgard to The Savage Land, all tied together with a New York City hub world. What sets LEGO Marvel Super Heroes apart is its ability to bring together characters from across the Marvel Universe in a way that was unprecedented at the time of its release, especially given the complex web of intellectual property rights. It included characters and locations not available as physical LEGO sets, making it a true celebration of Marvel Comics.

Subsequent entries like LEGO Marvel’s Avengers and LEGO Marvel Superheroes 2, while notable, couldn't quite match the original's charm and breadth. LEGO Marvel Super Heroes remains a standout title where players can enjoy the whimsical antics of characters like Doctor Doom and Venom racing on circus animals.

LEGO Games: The Playlist

From early browser games to the latest console and PC releases, here's a comprehensive look at notable LEGO games throughout the years. See All!

SEGA

Mindscape

Superscape

Intelligent Games

Krisalis Software Limited

Flipside Ltd.

High Voltage Software

Data Design Interactive

Templar Studios

Krisalis Software Limited

Read our review of LEGO Marvel Super Heroes or take a look at the best LEGO Marvel sets.