Archive for April, 2025

“Lady Blackhair’s Hideout” by MyFirstMOC-Hun

Sunday, April 27th, 2025 "Lady Blackhair's Hideout" by MyFirstMOC-Hun

Despite the name alluding to a rookie, thar be no more prolific contest-goer than MyFirstMOC!

And for that, we be mighty grateful, as Zsolti ensures LEGO Pirates fly their colours proudly in most AFOL buildin’ contests!

This time it be a remake inspired by 5003082 Pirates Adventure for the LEGO Ideas challenge, A Twist of Nostalgia


5003082 Pirates Adventure juxtapose "Lady Blackhair's Hideout" by MyFirstMOC-Hun

From 24 to 246 pieces – vastly expanded from the original

MyFirstMOC-Hun writes:

From the “Lady Blackhairs Hideout” webpage on the LEGO Ideas website.

This small island is the hideout of one of the most notorious female pirates of the seas. Her crew doesn’t know about the place, she comes here alone to relax, rest and hide her booty. A shark guards the island, but when more sharks appear, they are no longer friendly.

There is a small raft for supplies and a treasure chest full of gold in the hideout. The vegetation in front of the cave can be thrown away or the top of the rock can be removed for easier play.


The Build

5003082 Pirates Adventure be a more obscure choice for a set remake. Generally remakes are focused upon the classic era releases of 1989 to 1997. Yet, now and then, an intrepid builder dares to chart a course into future waters…

"Lady Blackhair's Hideout - Island" by MyFirstMOC-Hun - Not Ms. Dagger

Lady Blackhair’s Hideout… very out in the open, though

Instagram

MyFirstMOC, be keen to treat his Instagram crew to a fresh take on his builds, so he crafts alternate presentations:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Zsolti (@myfirstmoc)

If the embedded Instagram post ain’t firing, view it on Instagram.


5003082 Pirates Adventure

Known as “Classic Pirate Minifigure” by some sources, is a LEGO promotional set released during 2015.

5003082 Pirates Adventure VIP set

Just like the little sets of yore

The set be holdin’ 24 pieces, including one minifigure to patrol the shores, a fearsome shark to guard the waters, and a wee island to rest yer weary bones. There be extra treasures too—a postcard and stickers dis the finest LEGO Pirates minifigures from different eras.

Back box of 5003082 Pirates Adventure

Back of the box

‘Twas a limited-edition set, handed out as promotional booty to loyal sailors, and not sold like common wares.

If ye be seekin’ one for yer collection, ye’ll find them at trading posts like eBay, with prices depending on the set’s condition.


A Twist of Nostalgia!

Here be the latest challenge from LEGO Ideas in which you WIN a HUGGGGGGGE prize haul for remaking a classic LEGO set.

“A Twist of Nostalgia!” LEGO Ideas Challenge

The LEGO Ideas Team writes:

Do you remember the first LEGO® set you ever built? The one that sparked your love of LEGO bricks for the long haul? Well, now’s your chance to bring that nostalgia to life… with a twist!

We want you to dive into your childhood memories and reimagine your favorite LEGO set with a modern update. Whether it’s a classic theme or a beloved set, show us how you’d transform it into something fresh and uniquely yours.

And the best part? The winning submission will be made into a future Gift With Purchase. Exciting, right? Let’s go!

Keen? Then learn more about the challenge…

Prizes

The winning submission shall be officially produced as a Gift With Purchase set, and winners bestowed prizes beyond their wildest dreams…

Prize Pool for the LEGO Ideas Challenge "A Twist of Nostalgia"

That’s a lot of prizes for just two winners!

Entries

If yer have what it takes to modernise a classic set, yer best get building!

For some inspiration check out the LEGO Pirate builds that have already been submitted…

Then assemble the finest remake between 200 and 250 pieces… but refrain from using parts from intellectual properties, like Pirates of the Caribbean, One Piece, etc.

Submit ye build before April 30th 2025 at 6:00 AM EST or forever hold yer pieces!


About the Builder…

MyFirstMOC, known to his loyal crew as Zsolti, be a Hungarian digital artist, masterfully crafting digital builds that span a vast sea of LEGO themes. Yet his heart be anchored deep within the world of LEGO Pirates.

Jump on board and survey his extensive portfolio on Instagram, Flickr and Facebook.

While X still marks the spot, it seems Zsolti has abandoned his X account with no updates since December 2021.

Classic Pirates has showcased his creation previously, including the Lonely Island, 6260 Shipwreck Island Remake and Fortress of Hunyadi.

LEGO Ideas

MyFirstMOC-Hun aimed to submit six builds into the Twist of Nostalgia challenge! and he’s overshot his mark!

Here be three more of his submissions:

On occasion, he also be takin’ the odd swing at the prestigious LEGO Ideas 10K Club, so keep yer spyglass pointed on his LEGO Ideas profile! That way, yer stay at the ready and cast yer vote each time he berths a new LEGO Pirate creation!

"Fortress of Hunyadi" by Zsolti (@MyFirstMoc)

Fortress of Hunyadi – could have been an official LEGO set with more support!

But if ye enjoy watchin’ those magical virtual build videos where creations cobble themselves together, his YouTube Channel offers a trove of fine overviews showcasing his LEGO Ideas submissions!


What Do Yer Think?

Should Lady Blackhair’s Hideout claim the massive prize haul? Or be there another submission more worthy?

"Lady Blackhairs Hideout" by MyFirstMOC-Hun

If it wins, this could be your future Gift With Purchase

Do yer like how Zsolti has remade 5003082 Pirates Adventure? Or would you have taken a different approach?

And dare ye enter this challenge yerself?

Raise yer voice, matey! Let the crew hear in the Classic Pirates Facebook Group!

“Privateer Frigate Fortuna” by BrickPerfection – Series 5 Version

Saturday, April 19th, 2025 "Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by BrickPerfection (Series 5 version)

Cries of joy rang out across the LEGO Pirates fandom after BrickPerfection’sPrivateer Frigate Fortuna” was officially declared the first pirate-themed ship to survive the BrickLink Designer Team’s meticulous review.

But did yer know he’d submitted three different incarnations of Fortuna across Series 5, Series 6 and Series 7?

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by Brick Perfection

The version Privateer Frigate Fortuna which passed the Series 7 review

As we patiently while away the hours until the Crowdfunding/pre-order phase, let’s take a cruise down memory lane to Series 5, so that we may observe how Fortuna evolved over the various BrickLink Designer Series


BrickPerfection writes:

Quote taken from the official Privateer Frigate Fortuna webpage from Series 5:

Meet Fortuna, a fast frigate designed as a Privateer – a government-commissioned vessel tasked with hunting pirate ships or, deceptively, becoming one.

ARR! It looks like Fortuna’s crew has gone rogue and joined the Pirates themselves!

Exciting new possibilities!  Never before have the colours of privateers been flown within the LEGO Pirates theme

Stern of the "Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by BrickPerfection

She may be flying the blue coat Soldier’s flag now, but…

BrickPerfection continues:

This set introduces the unpredictable Privateers to the LEGO Pirates theme, capable of aligning with any faction or pursuing their own adventures. Fortuna carries flags of all major factions: the Imperial Soldiers, Imperial Guards, Armada, and historical pirate flags (two of each). It includes 12 Minifigures, a striking figurehead, and a small cat to protect supplies from rat

Picture an official LEGO set what includes flags for all the imperial factions!


Privateer Frigate Fortuna: Series 5

The Fortuna, originally conceived as multi-faction vessel, included blue coat Soldiers flags and minfigs thanks to the availability of relevant parts during the 10320 Eldorado Fortress production run.

Fortuna favours the bold

Which flag will your Fortuna fly under?

Stats

Total parts: 4,000 | Unique parts: 639 | Minifigures: 12 | Stickers: 18

Putting that into perspective, 10210 Imperial Flagship contains 1,664 pieces, meaning Fortuna boasts 240% more parts!

Dimensions

Length: 81 cm / 31.9 in
Width: 29 cm / 11.5 in
Height: 62 cm / 24.4 in

Play Features

Now let’s examine the Fortuna has to offer, bit by bit!

Hull of the Fortuna looking towards the bow

Looking down the bow we observe the well gunned broadside

  • Detailed Hull Curvature
    Realistic horizontal curves in half steps for a sleek appearance.
  • Structural Integrity
    Exceptionally strong and rigid hull built on a Technic frame for durability.

Stern of the Fortuna looking down the port broadside

Some fine decoration on the stern

  • Run out the Cannons
    Slide cannons in and out, and close gun ports securely for realistic naval battles.
  • Authentic Masts
    Maneuver the ship with accurate, three-piece masts complete with standing rigging for a true maritime feel.

  • Working Capstan
    Operate both anchors via a selector gearbox. The removable Capstan can be turned with minifigures on it
  • Defensive Features
    Remove cabin doors and board up stern windows

Raised Decks from the Port Broadside of the Privateer Frigate Fortuna

The deck can be raises for accessibility

Accessible Interior
Remove the top deck in sections for full access, allowing minifigures to stand and move below deck.

BrickPerfection concludes:

Fortuna’s efficient design makes the most of its 4,000 pieces, ensuring an enjoyable building experience with plenty of customisation options. Although the design is ambitious, I have paid close attention to making it as buildable as possible.

Set sail with Fortuna for endless adventures and creative possibilities!

Stern of the Privateer Frigate Fortuna

This be what unfortunate pirates see after they encounter Fortuna


Video Overviews

If still photos ain’t enough to sell yer the features, BrickPerfection happily walks us through them in this insightful video, complimented with lively music…

BrickPerfection writes:

Fortuna is a fast frigate that has been purpose-built as a privateer – a government-sponsored pirate or a pirate hunter. The Crown very much would like her to hunt down and bring to justice those pesky pirates that are preying on the Royal treasures!

ARGH! It looks like Fortuna’s crew has gone rogue and joined the Pirates themselves! Privateers have been sorely missing from the LEGO Pirates theme; being unreliable turncoats, they can fight on either side or on their own.

Fortuna carries flags of all factions from the Pirates theme – the Imperial Soldiers, Imperial Guards and Armada – as well as a historical pirate flag. She comes with 12 Minifigures plus a figurehead and a small cat to keep the food supplies safe from rats.

If sea devils prevent yer from playing embedded videos, give a try on YouTube.

Speed Animation & 360 rotation

Watch Fortuna comes together before yer very eyes!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BrickPerfection (@brickperfection)

If the embedded post above has poor riggin’, watch it upon Instagram.

Classic Pirates Instagram Post

And while yer at it, please give the Classic Pirates Fortuna Instagram Post a Like and Share.

Arrr, we be spreadin’ the Fortuna far and wide, so every LEGO Pirate fan and sea dog knows she’ll be available for Pre-order!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Classic Pirates (@classicpirates)

If our embedded post be broken, fire it up on Instagram.


Physical Build

Building digitally using BrickLink Studio be one thing, but bringing designs to life with physical LEGO bricks be another.

Physical build of Series 5 "Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by BrickPerfection

Physical build of the Fortuna submitted to Series 5

After all, if BrickLink designs are to be manufactured as LEGO sets that YOU may one day possess, builders must ensure their structural integrity is legitimate.

Something that becomes all the more apparent when ol’ gravity makes its presence known.

The Hold Test

Fans aren’t particularly enthralled with LEGO builds what crumble into pieces the moment they’re picked up.

Stability testing the "Privateer Frigate Fortuna" from Series 5

Now go try this with yer classic LEGO Pirate ships

BrickPerfection prides the structural integrity of his builds and ensures they’re stability tested by being held in a single hand.

Beneath the Upper Decks

BrickPerfection was mindful that the interior of LEGO ships are often difficult to reach.

Removal of upper deck of "Privateer Frigate Fortuna"

Off comes the upper deck

So as an accessibility feature, he engineered the decks of the Fortuna to be removable.

Removal of deck of "Privateer Frigate Fortuna"

The crew must stand aside while the innards are torn from the ship

Thanks to this ingenuity, yer’ll be able to worm yer way into every nook and cranny!

Exhibiting

BrickLink Designers toil for countless hours, polishing and perfecting their creations for submission.

But tell me, matey — what fate befall the many what never pass review?

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna" exhibited at Inner West Brick Fair in Sydney

Fortuna exhibited at the Inner West Brick Fair

Might as well set sail and show the physical build to the real world… the world outside of digital devices!

And that’s exactly what BrickPerfection did; exhibited Fortuna at the Inner West Brick Fair in Sydney, during June 2024.

Fun Fact!

The most successful pirate in during the Golden Age of Piracy (measured by number of vessels captured) Bartholomew Roberts, named his flagship “Royal Fortune”

So take that Eddie! Errr…. Blackbeard!


About the Builder…

BrickPerfection (the mighty Moritz Krusche) be one of the all time greatest ship builders!

Currently docked in Sydney in the land down under (known to some as Australia), BrickPerfection has successfully navigated from the physical age of building, to the digital age, and back again!

BrickPerfection with BrickLink Designer ships "Concordia", "Minvera" and "Fortuna"

BrickPerfection with his BrickLink Designer ships “Concordia“, “Minvera” and “Fortuna

This journey be well documented on Instagram, Facebook and Threads.

And for the enthusiasts what cannot be appeased by static images, BrickPerfection’s  YouTube Channel explores his builds with greater dynamism.

All Time Greatest Ship Builders

Once upon a time there was no BrickLink Studio, forcing builders to construct their ships using real LEGO parts.

BrickPerfection's LEGO fleet

BrickPerfection’s fleet circa 2013

And with those parts, they fashioned magnificent fabric sails and rigged them with their nimble fingers.

Above be a small complement from BrickPerfection’s fleet, visit the Imperial Shipyards on Flickr to witness the full might of his naval prowess.


BrickLink Designer Program Series 8

In case yer didn’t know, Series 8 set sail weeks before the Series 7 finalists were announced.

Open Submission for Series 8 takes place between April 14 and 25, 2025.

BrickLink Designer Program Series 8 – Open Submission

LEGO Pirates be riding the waves of success!

So if yer considering submitting a design, or resubmitting a previous design…

DO IT!

Yer have until the timer reaches 00:00:00:00!

BrickPerfection has lived the adage;

If first you don’t succeed… kill them all try, try again


What Do Yer Think?

What be yer thoughts of the Series 5 version of Privateer Frigate Fortuna?

Do yer find the multi-faction concept appealing?

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna from Series 5 with different faction flags

The Fortuna: Imperial Guard, Soldier, Imperial Armada… whatever faction you want it to be!

In the future we shall document Fortuna’s design progression as submitted to Series 6 and 7.

Crowdfunding for Fortuna

But let’s not forget that the Series 7 Fortuna be our prize!

Pre-orders shall take place during February 2026, are you onboard?

Or be Fortuna unworthy of your fleet?

66
Would you buy "Privateer Frigate Fortuna"?

Learn more about the upcoming set

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by Brick Perfection

Share yer thoughts on the Fortuna in the LEGO Pirates Forum and Classic Pirates Facebook Group.

BrickLink Designer Program Series 8 – Open Submission

Monday, April 14th, 2025 BrickLink Designer Program - Series 8 - Open Submission

Crowd Support

Crowd Support for Series 8 takes place between May 5 and 16, 2025.

When the timer reaches 00:00:00:00, vote for yer favourite LEGO Pirate submissions!


Series 8

Brace yerself for BrickLink Designer Program Series 8!

Pre-orders for “Privateer Frigate Fortuna” have been officially announced and Crowd Funding for The Thieves of Tortuga be just months away.

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by Brick Perfection

Privateer Frigate Fortuna” by Brickperfection passed Series 7 Review

But that ain’t no excuse for us to remain idle, as we desire even more pirate-themed builds to pass review in the future!

So here be the course we’ve charted to make it a reality…


Official Announcement

The official BrickLink Designer Program Series 8 webpage is live and loaded with valuable information!

BrickLink Designer Program Series 8 Announcement

As always, review the updated guidelines before starting a build

The official Series 8 webpage declares:

We’re accepting submissions from April 14th – April 25th 2025. The best designs have the chance to be Series 8 sets, so get those ideas flowing!
Learn more

So be sure to digest them updated guidelines and craft the finest pirate masterpiece to ever sail the BrickLink Designer Program!


Series 8 Q&A Webinar

Mark yer calendars for 10AM Pacific time on 25 March, 2025!

The Series 8 Webinar will walk you through latest guidelines so yer can build the best submissions possible.

LEGO® BrickLink YouTube Channel writes:

Learn about the Submission Guidelines for BrickLink Designer Program: Series 8 as Alex, BDP Project Manager, covers updates and common questions. Aspiring fan designers ask questions and get clarification to some of the nuances of various guidelines.

And if yer unable to watch embedded videos in yer web browser, off to YouTube ye shall go.


Series 8 Timeline

Here be the key dates for this series:

Open Submission

Open Submission for Series 8 is between 14 and 25 April, 2025.

You have until the timer reaches 00:00:00:00 to submit yer design!

61
Do you consider BrickLink Designer Program Sets as OFFICIAL LEGO Sets?

Learn more about BrickLink Designer Sets

Poll - LEGO BrickLink Designer Sets

Reduced Pirate-Themed Parts?

Bugger! From Series 6 onward fewer Pirate-themed parts be available in the BrickLink Design Studio palette.

Now that 10320 Eldorado Fortress has been retired, there be no need to keep producing them Soldier parts!

Fewer Pirate Parts Available in BrickLink Design Studio?

So how you will overcome this limitation in your Soldier and Imperial-themed builds? DelusionB demonstrates how it’s done in “Anchor Cove Imperials Shipyard“.

Just don’t turn yer fort into a blinkin’ modern day tourist attraction!


Crowdfunded Pirate Designs

The BrickLink Designer Team has granted three pirate-themed designs the nod of approval.

The most recent; “Privateer Frigate Fortuna” by Brickperfection from Series 7 has been announced for Crowdfunding (pre-orders) during February 2026.

LEGO Pirate themed BrickLink Designer sets

Privateer Frigate Fortuna” by Brickperfection joins the lineup

Also awarded the team’s seal of approval; “Ominous Isle” from Series 2 by the joyful Jazlecraz, and “The Thieves of Tortuga” from Series 5 by the crafty Krackenator.

‘Tis a magnificent leap forward from the dark times of July 2021 when the BrickLink Designer Program set sail, leaving pirates marooned and forgotten.

66
Would you buy "Privateer Frigate Fortuna"?

Learn more about the upcoming set

"Privateer Frigate Fortuna" by Brick Perfection

The Thieves of Tortuga

Once the good ship Fortuna casts off, yer LEGO Pirates will be needin’ a haven to evade capture! Don’t allow them to be shackled by privateers!

BrickLink Designer Program: "The Thieves of Tortuga" by Krackenator

The Thieves of Tortuga” by Krackenator from Series 5

Ye will be able to pre-order Thieves of Tortuga via LEGO.com during the Crowdfunding phase in June 2025.

But do ye dare?

277
Would you buy "The Thieves of Tortuga"?

Learn more about the upcoming set

BrickLink Designer Program: "The Thieves of Tortuga" by Krackenator

Ominous Isle

Perhaps yer missed the Crowfunding phase for Ominous Isle but all is not lost!

eBay sellers are still offering the set… BUT avoid complacency because the longer yer leave it, the higher the price rises.

Boxes of 910038 Ominous Isle from LEGO's BrickLink Designer Program

There be no limit to how many BrickLink sets yer can purchase on eBay!

And one day, they’ll disappear from eBay too!

What Next?

Our labors not be done, salty sailor! The brick seas still demand the sweat from our brows.

LEGO Pirate lovers must remain ever ready, seizin’ every opportunity to champion new pirate-themed LEGO products whenever they arise!

What kind pirate-themed BrickLink set is yer heart yearning for next?


What Do Yer Think?

Will you be submitting pirate-themed designs to Series 8?

Start building for BrickLink Designer Program Series 8

Time to fire up BrickLink Studio

Builders

Read the updated guidelines and start working on finish yer designs!

Open Submission for Series 8 take place between April 14 and 25.

You have until the timer reaches 00:00:00:00 to submit yer design!

So build submit away!

Buyers

Is the BrickLink Designer Program the last bastion of hope for new LEGO Pirate set releases?

Or do BrickLink Designer sets lack the allure of the retail releases?

198
Do yer have a general interest in Pirate-themed BrickLink Sets?
Poll: LEGO Pirates BrickLink Designer Submission sets

And what of The Thieves of Tortuga? Will yer be pre-ordering come June 2025?

Share yer thoughts and questions in the LEGO Pirates Forum and Classic Pirates Facebook Group.

FREE Pirate Rewards for LEGO® Insider Members

Sunday, April 13th, 2025 FREE LEGO Insiders Rewards: Pirates backdrop and wallpapers

The fine folk at The LEGO Group be feelin’ mighty generous for they’re offering LEGO® Insider members some FREE loot.

Up for the plunder is a collection of wallpapers to suit computer, tablet or mobile device, plus a backdrop poster to give yer favourite sets a more “classically piratey” presentation.

These rewards will set yer back ZERO Insider Points – so let’s seek them out, me hearties…


Swashbuckling Screensavers

Perhaps not screensavers in the truest sense, but a definitely glorious stash of wallpapers that’ll have ye grinnin’ like a pirate with a chest full of gold!

LEGO Pirate and blue coat Soldier mobile wallpapers

An assortment of minifigure designs to choose from

The official webpage states:

As a member you can download this LEGO® Pirates screensaver, no points needed. Comes in Mobile (Portrait), Desktop (Landscape) and Desktop Widescreen (Landscape) aspect ratios.

Deck out yer device with these LEGO Pirate minifigure inspired designs…


Backdrop Poster

Recently, fans have been clamorin’ for a high-resolution classic artwork to grace the backgrounds of their displays – well, by the briny deep, they shall have it!

6289 Redbeard Runner Box Backdrop

What can yer put in front of this backdrop poster?

The official webpage states:

Elevate any LEGO® ships from your collection into a stunning maritime scene with our exclusive backdrop poster!

Simply print, frame, and position your favourite ship builds against the beautiful backdrop to make it feel like it’s cruising through the open seas!

Frame size: 70x60cm / 27.6×23.6 inches

The 6289 Redbeard Runner shown on the webpage be for illustrative purposes only – yer don’t get a free set!


Castle and Space

It ain’t just the LEGO Pirates hoistin’ fresh wallpapers…

Classic Castle and Classic Space fans also be gettin’ a share of the bounty with designs fit for a noble knight or a daring space explorer!

LEGO Castle and Space Wallpapers

A sample of the Classic Castle and Classic Space wallpapers

And some might be askin’ what’s the difference between a screensaver and a wallpaper?

Well, a screensaver be the ghostly image what appears and haunts yer screen when yer idle, while a wallpaper be the trusty background that stays put, behind all yer desktop icons!


LEGO Insiders?

If ye ain’t heard, LEGO runs a grand VIP rewards program by the name of LEGO Insiders — where loyal buccaneers be earnin’ free rewards and save gold for their devotion!

LEGO Insiders Rewards for April 2025

Join LEGO Insiders* to receive Discounts, exclusive Rewards and FREE LEGO sets.

After registering a free membership yer awarded points for LEGO.com purchases and granted access to exclusive benefits.

Points can be redeemed for generous discounts, exclusive rewards or FREE Gift with Purchase sets like them pictured above.

Sign up as a LEGO Insider* NOW, lest the discounts and free treasures slip through yer fingers!

* official LEGO.com affiliate links provided for your convenience 


What Do Yer Think?

Are these LEGO Insider Rewards worth claiming?

Example of the LEGO Pirate backdrop in use

This be just one possibility… how will you use this backdrop poster?

Do yer feel they bring extra value to your LEGO Insider membership? Or be there something else you’d prefer as a reward?

Let us know in the Classic Pirates Facebook Group!

“A Twist of Nostalgia!” LEGO Ideas Challenge

Saturday, April 12th, 2025 LEGO Ideas "Twist of Nostalgia" Challenge

UPDATE 30 APRIL, 2025

Submissions have closed!

Between May 1 and May 9 the LEGO Ideas Expert Team be selecting their favourite builds to progress to the voting phase.

Screenshot of the LEGO Ideas: Twist of Nostalgia Challenge Timeline as 30 April, 2025

Screenshot of the Challenge Timeline from the official webpage.

Then between May 12 and May 21 yer will have the opportunity to vote for the winners… and a future LEGO Pirate Gift With Purchase!

So keep a weather eye on this very page, ye scallywag!


Get yer bricks out `coz LEGO Ideas be hosting another challenge in which you can WIN a HUMONGOUS haul of LEGO sets!

The challenge is to remake a classic set what made you a LEGO Pirates fan for life.

You have until 30 April, 2025 at 6:00 AM EST to submit your build!

As for the prizes…


Prize Haul

Aside from the winning submission officially produced as a Gift With Purchase set, there be the prize hauls…

Prize Pool for the LEGO Ideas Challenge "A Twist of Nostalgia"

How much do yer think all those prizes are worth?

Here be the grand loot laid out for all ye buccaneers daring to win it!

Is that enough booty to tempt yer?

Some challenge submissions be scattered throughout this here post to offer yer hearty inspiration…


Official Webpage

Now, let’s cast our spyglasses upon the official challenge webpage says:

Do you remember the first LEGO® set you ever built? The one that sparked your love of LEGO bricks for the long haul? Well, now’s your chance to bring that nostalgia to life… with a twist!

We want you to dive into your childhood memories and reimagine your favorite LEGO set with a modern update. Whether it’s a classic theme or a beloved set, show us how you’d transform it into something fresh and uniquely yours.

And the best part? The winning submission will be made into a future Gift With Purchase. Exciting, right? Let’s go!

Aye, we be very excited!


Terms of Engagement

Like any challenge, there be a fair share of terms yer must abide to, but here are the most crucial:

  • Yer set remake must contain between 200 and 250 pieces.
  • It MUST be inspired by an official LEGO set.
  • No parts or minifigures from licensed themes or intellectual properties, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, One Piece, etcetera and so forth.
  • Only use LEGO elements currently in production.
    So no FabulandBionicle or even the old skool LEGO Pirate flag – these parts must be substituted with modern equivalents, or achieved using different building techniques.

Don’t be forgettin’ to scour the official challenge webpage to learn every single rule!

And take a gander at the Challenges FAQ while yer at it.


Submit Yer Entry

After yer build a wonderfully fantastic LEGO Pirate creation make certain:

  • Yer take no less than 4 photos and no more than 10
  • Yer images be at least 1080 x 720 pixels 
  • Yer don’t use blinkin’ AI!

Deadline

Yer have until April 30th 2025 at 6:00 AM EST to build yer submission.

Although, the LEGO Ideas Team be advisin’ ye to send it in a couple of days early- givin’ yer ample time to polish it like the finest treasure.

Plus they’ll gives until May 1st 2025 at 6:00 AM EST to resubmit, should yer make vast improvements to the design.


What Do Yer Think?

What’s ye favourite Classic LEGO Pirate set?

Reckon ye can haul it into the 2020s usin’ the finest modern LEGO pieces?

What be yer thoughts of the LEGO Pirate builds submitted thus far?

Can yer outdo them with even greater brickfarin’ skill?

And which pirate submissions would make a fine Gift With Purchase?

Voting starts…

Raise yer voice, matey! Let the crew hear in the Classic Pirates Facebook Group!

NEW Brickbeard Tile and Pirate Torso Design – Build A Minifigure – Q2 2025

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 Brickbeard Build A Minifigure Tile + Pirate Flag Torso Design

Reports have come flooding in there be a new 2×3 Brickbeard tile and Jolly Roger torso be available in LEGO stores as part of their Build A Minifigure selections.

Where these parts may surface next, only the seas be knowin’…


Build A Minifigure – Quarter 2, 2025

Feast yer eyes on the brand-new LEGO Build-a-Minifigure hoard for Second Quarter, 2025!

LEGO Build A Minifigure selection for Q2, 2025

Do these pieces have merit?

Seven fresh scallywags be awaitin’ for ye to collect, but alas…  there ain’t a true pirate among them…

The Brickbeard tile and Jolly Roger torso be part of the default configuration of the minifigure dubbed “Pirate Boy” or “Pirate fan“.

Perhaps this is what The LEGO Group assumes LEGO Pirate fans look like in real life, or at the very least, the minifig seems to resemble a teenager, sporting rather garish attire.

Photo credit Unieke Bricks

Curiously, this hand drawn rendition of Brickbeard retains both hands and legs.

LEGO Captain Brickbeard released in 2008

Definitely Brickbeard, not Redbeard

And it’s definitely Brickbeard `coz Roger Redbeard sported green garb, not the fiery crimson we see in the title.

Traditionally the Captain Brickbeard minfigure clomps round on a pegleg and gnashes at imperials with a hook in place of his left hand.

Redbeard, Brickbeard and Redbeard

Spot the Brickbeard!

So blow me down! What devilry be afoot ‘ere?

Could this be Brickbeard in his spryer days before he lost a limb or two? Or might it be another scallywag? A kin of Brickbeard’s, perhaps?


Social Media

It still be early days, but here are some sightings of the tile…

Classic Pirates Facebook Group

First, let raise our tankards and give a hearty praise to Andrew Hazlehurst whose Facebook post brought it to our attention in the Classic Pirates Facebook Group.

T’was Andrew what got the discussion happening in the Classic Pirates Facebook Group.

Bosbrick

Now, let’s navigate to YouTube where Bosbrick provides us with a lightning fast overview of the tile…

Video broken? Watch it upon YouTube

Olive.Muffin

Next Olive.Muffin shares a fleeting visit to LEGO Flagship store in New York City

Video broken? Watch it upon YouTube

girlbricksalot

Now let’s venture over to Instagram where girlbricksalot shows off her lavishly decorated talons… which strikingly match Brickbeard’s shirt.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nicole (@girlbricksalot)

Embed broken? View it upon Instagram

Dratinileft

Next stop Reddit!  The images in Dratinileft’s post be rather similar to Olive.Muffin’s video, but we’re treated to a lengthy written account of the experience…

B.A.M. Q2 – Flagship Store – NYC
byu/Dratinileft inLegoMinifigure

Embed broken? View it upon Reddit

Dratinileft writes:

I went to the LEGO flagship store on April 1. I called before and they said they put out their Q2 stuff on March 31. So I went with the intention of trying to find some redbeard prints (I got three).

The store has three separate BAM stations, and the store is always busy. It was very difficult to find any redbeard prints, I only found three on one of the BAM stations at the top.

I intended to only get new figures, but I found a blue spacesuit/matching legs that I could not turn down, and there was a body/head for the wrestler from Q1. I wanted a doctor minifigures so I was happy to build one. So I ended up with a random build of three.

I sought out the redbeard prints early based on the advice that I got here. Thank you.

legofiesta

And back to Instagram to conclude our voyage of discovery.

legofiesta has compiled a nice overview of all the Q2, 2025 minifigures:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Wen Kiong (@legofiesta)

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Have YOU encountered this minfigure or these parts?


What be Build A Minifgure?

This be the finest way to forge yer own scallywag from LEGO® parts!

At officially certified LEGO stores with BAM stations, ye can pick heads, hair, garb, and trinkets weapons, even add custom prints to make ’em truly seaworthy.

NEW Pirate Wench “Build a Minifigure” Q1 2024 [OFFICIAL]

Whether ye be craftin’ a miniature version of yerself or conjurin’ a pirate fit for adventure, this be the place to bring yer wildest imaginings to life in brick form!

Have yer ever built a minifigure worthy of the high seas?


What Do Yer Think?

Are ye excited for this Brickbeard tile and Jolly Roger torso design? Or be these parts too insubstantial to jolt yer emotions?

Redbeard title available at Build A Minifigure stations

Where might you use this in yer builds?

Besides BAM stations, where else might these parts appear?  Be there an upcoming LEGO Pirate themed set they may worm their way into?

Let us know year thoughts in the LEGO Pirates Facebook Group!

“The Secret of Eldorado Fortress” by Ironhook Films

Sunday, April 6th, 2025 "Secret of Eldorado Fortress" by Ironhook Films

The LEGO Pirates theme be riddled with mysteries…

Like how merchant Steve swapped trade for treachery and suddenly appeared onboard the 6286 Skulls Eye Schooner.

Although fans haven’t been short of ideas for patching that hole.

Another untold tale be the origins of Eldorado Fortress and the purpose behind that enigmatic sealed letter…


The Secret of Eldorado Fortress

YouTuber Ironhook Films weaves a compelling tale, outlining the origins of Eldorado Fortress and its mysteries within.

This stop motion brick film chronicles the fortress from its initial construction as depicted in set 6276. Followed by the blue coat Soldier invasion, their upgrades to set 10320, and beyond, towards the ever-shiftin’ tides of conquest and fortune…

Captain Valiant at Eldorado Fortress

Captain Valiant was the Imperial Armada’s commanding officer at Eldorado Fortress

The film also unravels the story behind the hidden passageway and sealed envelope; and lays bare how Broadside was usurped by the now seemingly incumbent governor.

Governor Broadside in chains

Governor Broadside in chains aboard The Cutter

Ironhook Films writes:

Ahoy me Hearties! I bring you another story from the golden age of piracy. It is about discovery, conquest, treasure and deceit. The Lego Eldorado Fortress (10320) is filled with hidden details, such as the trapdoor in the prison, the wine cellar, and the secret letter. It inspired me to tell a story that begins with the question: how came that the bluecoats own a fortress with a Spanish name? I hope you enjoy it.

If bugs have usurped yer browser, watch the video upon YouTube.


The Name Eldorado Fortress

“Eldorado” be Spanish in origin, yet the fortress has been occupied by blue coat Soldiers ever since the LEGO Pirates theme debuted in 1989.

LEGO Pirates 6276 Eldorado Fortress

Always occupied by Soldiers?  Or has it?

The Soldiers have officially entered the record as being “based upon” the French navy and marines of the colonial era.

Screenshot of Soldier nationality from LEGO.com

A screenshot from an article on LEGO.com

Regardless, the name “Eldorado” hints that the fortress was perhaps constructed by the Imperial Armada prior to occupation of the Soldiers.


Real World History

While readin’ these articles, Classic Pirates believes yer should learn a thing a two about what inspired the content.

Kind of like school;
Yer’ll never use what yer learn, but at least here it’s somewhat interesting…

Spanish Arrival in the Americas

The Spanish arrival in the New World changed the tides of history forever!

Screen from Apocalypto, the Spanish Inquistion arriving in the New World

A scene from Apocalyptic, 2006

In the fateful year of 1492, when Christopher Columbus’s  landed upon Caribbean shores under the the flag of Queen Isabella I of Castile. This voyage was the catalyst in a grand conquest, opening the floodgates for Spanish exploration and conquest of the Americas!

Following Columbus, Spanish conquistadors such as Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro led expeditions that resulted in the fall of powerful empires like the Aztecs and Incas.

Scene from Apocalypto: Spanish Galleons arriving in the New World

Spanish galleons arriving in the New World

The Spanish Empire expanded rapidly, claiming vast territories across North, Central, and South America, forming what became known as New Spain.

The Spanish crown implemented administrative and religious structures to govern these lands, while explorers continued to push further inland in search of gold, silver, and other resources.

"Hernando Cortes Arriving In The New World" by Severino Baraldi

Hernando Cortes Arriving In The New World” by Severino Baraldi

The Origins of Eldorado

The name Eldorado originates from the Spanish term “El Dorado,” what means “The Golden One.”

It was first used during the 16th century to describe a mythical city built from gold, supposedly located somewhere in South America.

"Fundacion de Santiago" by Pedro Lira, 1888

Fundacion de Santiago” by Pedro Lira, 1888

Spanish conquistadors searched for this land filled with riches beyond their reckoning.

The legend stemmed from the Muisca people of modern-day Colombia, who performed a ritual to proclaim a new ruler.

"Lake Guatavita, Colombia" by Miguel Angel Riaño

Where the magic happened – Lake Guatavita, Colombia 📸 Miguel Angel Riaño

To offer tribute for divine blessing over his reign, “The Gilded One“, was covered in a sticky layer of resin upon which fine gold dust was blown. The outcome was a radiant figure clad in sparkling gold –  truly a “gilded man.”

Representation of "The Gilded One"

A depiction of “The Gilded One” made from pure gold really stirred the imagination

The raft, made from reeds, and laden with gold and emeralds, was rowed to the lake’s centre.

The defining moment arrived as horns blared and attendants cast gold and jewels into the waters, joined by offerings from the crowd. The ceremony reached its peak when the Gilded One himself leapt into the waters — emerging cleansed of gold, now ruler of the Muisca.

Pre-Columbian Gold Jewellery

Discovery of Pre-Columbian gold jewellery fueled the legend of Eldorado even further

Aye, the promise of such treasure led many a foolhardy soul to chase shadows across the jungles of the Americas. Yet, not a soul has ever laid eyes upon this fabled city of gold.

Throughout the ages, the name Eldorado came to symbolise wealth, prosperity, and an unattainable paradise.

Eldorado be more than just a place, yer see! It be a dream!  A fool’s paradise where wealth and glory be ripe for the plunder.

To this very day, the name stirs the hearts of those who long for untold riches.


About the Creator

Ironhook Films be a YouTube channel known for its crafty stop-motion animations.

"Ironhook Films" YouTube Channel

Ironhook FilmsYouTube Channel

It be early days, with a small but loyal crew of around 720 subscribers, the channel showcases storytelling and animation skills through a handful of videos.

So if yer enjoy stop-motion brick films and LEGO Pirate themed stories, Ironhook Films be well worth a look… and subscribe!

Video Credits

Small version of the Black Sea’s Barracuda based on a design by Veyniac.

LEGO Book 260 sailboat and mini Black Seas Barracuda by Veyniac

LEGO Book 260 sailboat and mini Black Seas Barracuda by Veyniac

Voice over by Peter Baker as the Narrator and Captain Redbeard.

Music from Pond5, songs include; “Spanish Ladies”, “Wellerman“, “Rolling down to old Maui” and” Don’t forget your old shipmate”, “Pirate theme (funny sea shanty)

Sound effects from freesound.org, ElevenLabs, and Pond5.


What Do Yer Think?

Has “The Secret of Eldorado Fortress” successfully bridged the divide between the two versions of Eldorado Fortress?

Did the film sufficiently explain why it bears a Spanish name despite the Soldier occupancy? And what of the revelation of the sealed enveloped?

Eldorado Fortress occupied by Imperial Armada minifigures

Eldorado Fortress occupied by the Imperial Armada

Or do yer feel the story could have been told differently?  What be your ideas?

Let us know in the LEGO Pirates Forum and Classic Pirates Facebook Group.



LEGO Company Ltd


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