"Adult's First LEGO Buy: Mario Set, No Regrets"

As someone who prides myself on practicality when it comes to spending money, my purchases typically revolve around essentials. Occasionally, I indulge in video games, but only when they're on sale. It wasn't until last year that I considered splurging on something as seemingly frivolous as a LEGO set. Despite my childhood love for LEGO, I had grown out of it—until now.

The high cost of LEGO sets often deterred me. While there are affordable options under $25, sets linked to popular movie or video game franchises tend to be pricier. That's why it took me a while to justify purchasing the LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. It's been on sale since last October for under $50, but it was only recently that I decided my desk could use a quirky new "potted plant."

The LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

Lowest Price: LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

• Includes 540 pieces and you can adjust the pose.
• $59.99 save 20% - $47.95 at Amazon
• $59.99 save 20% - $47.99 at Walmart

My interest in the Piranha Plant set was sparked after reading IGN's review. As a long-time fan of Mario games, this set seemed like the perfect way to showcase my affection for the franchise. LEGO's botanical line offers various flower sets that would enhance my desk, but none possess the whimsical charm and slight menace of this Piranha Plant.

My LEGO Piranha Plant

Having now built the set, I'm thrilled to have it adorning my desk. Gazing at it, I can easily imagine myself in the Mushroom Kingdom, tending to my little potted Piranha Plant during work hours. The joy of the finished product is matched by the pleasure of the build itself. It took me an afternoon to assemble, providing just the right level of challenge to keep me engaged throughout. Currently, it's my only LEGO Nintendo set, but my experience has me eyeing more additions.

See more Mario LEGO sets

• The Mighty Bowser - See it at Amazon
• Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi - See it at Amazon
• Super Mario NES - See it at Amazon
• Mario Kart Yoshi Bike - See it at Amazon

How Much Are You Willing to Spend on a LEGO Set You Love?

As mentioned, LEGO can be an expensive hobby. With new adult-targeted sets priced at $200 or more each year, it's easy to overspend on something captivating. For those of us not swimming in cash, it's crucial to find a balance between indulging in a passion and avoiding financial strain from an influx of plastic bricks.

The fact that the Mario LEGO set was under $50 made it an easy decision for me. The hours spent building it, combined with the daily joy it brings sitting on my desk, justified the cost. Is that joy worth more than $50? Absolutely. But that's my spending limit.

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