Get ready for some serious nostalgia, because Lego just dropped a fantastic new set that will have retro gaming fans buzzing! They've created a detailed Donkey Kong arcade machine. What's even cooler is that this $200 set, letting Mario jump endless barrels, has reportedly earned a thumbs-up from none other than Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of Mario himself. This amazing piece comes from Carl Merriam, a designer known for other popular nostalgia-inducing Lego sets like the Lego Nintendo Game Boy and the Piranha Plant. He also lent his talents to incredible builds such as the Lion Knights' Castle and Galaxy Explorer. So, you know this Donkey Kong machine is in expert hands. Now, don't expect a perfect recreation of the classic arcade experience. The 'Jumpman' character, who we now know as Mario, can't actually reach the top of the structure on his own. However, this isn't just a static display model. Much like Lego's $230 pinball machine, this Donkey Kong set features a fully functional game. It includes a working joystick, allowing you to control Mario as he navigates a basic, playable game of endless barrel dodging. It’s a clever mechanical play feature that captures the spirit of the original without needing any electronics. If you're a long-time fan of classic arcade games, Lego, or both, this set is a must-see. It's a unique way to own a piece of gaming history that you can interact with, offering a hands-on, mechanical gaming experience. Even if it's not a pixel-for-pixel remake, the fact that Miyamoto himself is reportedly happy with it says a lot about its charm and design. It's a wonderful blend of brick building and interactive play that celebrates a gaming icon.