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LEGO NINJAGO City Docks (70657) isn’t just a building set; it’s an invitation to expand a vibrant, multi-layered world. As the companion piece to the magnificent NINJAGO City (70620), this set brings to life the bustling waterfront and gritty charm that perfectly complements the towering skyscrapers and ancient temples of its urban counterpart. Released in 2018, it quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for its intricate details, clever construction techniques, and sheer playability.
A Deeper Dive into the Docks
The Docks set comprises 3,553 pieces and, once built, stands as an impressive display piece on its own, measuring over 14” (37cm) high, 14” (38cm) wide, and 9” (25cm) deep. But its true magic lies in its modular design, allowing it to seamlessly connect with NINJAGO City, creating an even grander, more expansive urban landscape.
Ground Level: A Hub of Activity The ground floor of the Docks is a hive of activity, reflecting the gritty reality of a working port. It features:
- A Detailed Waterway: Complete with a small boat and “water” tiles that mimic the ebb and flow of the harbor.
- An Old World Bakery: Adorned with classic LEGO oven details, bread loaves, and even a pretzel, it exudes warmth and the scent of freshly baked goods.
- A “General Store”: Stocked with an array of goods, from fish and bottles to a map of the NINJAGO world, it’s a treasure trove for minifigures.
- A Crane with Working Pulley: Essential for loading and unloading cargo, adding a dynamic play feature.
- A Secret Compartment: Hidden beneath the docks, perfect for stashing treasures or escaping danger.
First Floor: Residential Charm and Culinary Delights Ascending to the first floor, the set transitions into a more residential and recreational space:
- Garmadon’s Apartment: Though seemingly humble, it includes a map, a fishing rod, and other personal touches, reflecting the warlord’s unexpected domestic side.
- A Cartographer’s Office: Bursting with scrolls, maps, and quills, it suggests a place of knowledge and exploration.
- A Restaurant with Teppanyaki Grill: A wonderfully detailed kitchen area with cooking utensils, ingredients, and seating for minifigures to enjoy a meal. The grill itself is a standout detail.
Second Floor: The Rooftops and Beyond The uppermost level continues the theme of diverse urban life:
- Cole’s Apartment: Featuring a rooftop training area with a punching bag and a bed, it perfectly captures Cole’s dedication to his ninja training.
- A Library/Reading Nook: A cozy space filled with books, a desk, and a lamp, offering a quiet retreat from the bustling docks below.
- A Tea Room: An elegant spot with a sliding door, a table, and teacups, providing a serene escape.
Minifigure Marvels
No LEGO set is complete without its inhabitants, and NINJAGO City Docks delivers a fantastic lineup of 13 minifigures: Lloyd, Cole (in casual outfit), Misako, Nya (in casual outfit), Shen-Li, Runme, Chan Kong-Sang, Runme, Lil’ Nelson, Dareth, Garmadon (in his “good” outfit), a Puffer Fish Thug, and a Suspect. This diverse cast adds immense storytelling potential, allowing builders to recreate scenes from The LEGO NINJAGO Movie or invent entirely new adventures.
Why the Docks are a Must-Have
- Expands the NINJAGO City Universe: If you own NINJAGO City, this set is practically essential. It transforms a single cityscape into an sprawling urban environment.
- Incredible Detail and Playability: Every nook and cranny is packed with thoughtful details, interactive elements, and hidden surprises, ensuring hours of building enjoyment and imaginative play.
- Unique Aesthetic: The Docks offer a grittier, more lived-in contrast to the futuristic gleam of NINJAGO City, adding depth and character to the overall display.
- Excellent Minifigure Selection: The variety of characters allows for rich storytelling and dynamic interactions.
- Challenging and Rewarding Build: With over 3,500 pieces, the build is engaging and satisfying for experienced LEGO enthusiasts.
The NINJAGO City Docks (70657) is more than just a LEGO set; it’s a storytelling canvas, a display masterpiece, and a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of LEGO designers. It truly brings the vibrant, multi-faceted world of NINJAGO to life in spectacular fashion.